Agenda packet — Santa Cruz City Council, September 9, 2025 (part 1 of 4)

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Regular Meeting - September 9, 2025
Council Chambers
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz
12:30 P.M. CLOSED SESSION
1:30 P.M. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, CONSENT, CONSENT PUBLIC HEARINGS,

GENERAL BUSINESS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
Council meetings are hybrid, and may be viewed remotely, using any of the following sources:
 Click on Zoom link (no time delay): https://zoom.us/j/94684401344  Online at http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council/council-meetings  Online at Watch – Community Television of Santa Cruz County  Comcast Channel 25
Or: Call any of the numbers below. If one is busy, try the next one.  1-833-548-0276 (Toll Free)
 1-833-548-0282 (Toll Free)
 1-877-853-5247 (Toll Free)
 1-669-900-9128
 Enter the meeting ID number: 946 8440 1344
 When prompted for a Participant ID, press #.
 Press *9 on your phone to “raise your hand” when the Mayor calls for public comment.  It will be your turn to speak when the Mayor calls on you. Press *6 to unmute yourself. The timer will then be set.

Correspondence to be included in the agenda packet must be received by 5:00 pm on Monday, September 8th
PLEASE NOTE:
 Council may take a break(s) as needed.
 Requests for extra speaking time on items other than Oral Communications must be made by 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 7th by emailing the Mayor and the City Clerk.

Approval will be confirmed via email.
[email protected] [email protected]
September 9, 2025 City Council 2
The City of Santa Cruz does not discriminate against persons with disabilities. Out of consideration for people with chemical sensitivities we ask that you attend fragrance free. Upon request, the agenda can be provided in a format to accommodate special needs. Additionally, if you wish to attend this public meeting and will require assistance such as an interpreter for American Sign Language, Spanish, or other special equipment, please call the City Clerk’s Department at 420-5030 at least five days in advance so that we can arrange for such special assistance, or email [email protected]. The CalRelay system number: 1-800-735-2922.

Si desea asistir a esta reunión pública y necesita ayuda - como un intérprete de lenguaje de señas americano, español u otro equipo especial - favor de llamar al Departamento de la Secretaría de la Ciudad al 420-5030 al menos cinco días antes para que podamos coordinar dicha asistencia especial o envié un correo electrónico a [email protected]. El número del sistema Cal-Relay es: 1-800-735-2922.

Agenda and Agenda Packet Materials: The City Council agenda and the complete agenda packet containing public records, which are not exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, are available for review on the City’s website:
www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-council-meetings and at the Office of the City Clerk located at 809 Center Street, Room 8, Santa Cruz, California, during normal business hours.

Agenda Materials Submitted after Publication of the Agenda Packet: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5, public records related to an open session agenda item submitted after distribution of the agenda packet are available at the same time they are distributed or made available to the legislative body on the City’s website at: www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-councilmeetings and are also available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk, 809 Center Street Room 8, Santa Cruz, California, during normal business hours, and at the Council meeting.

Need more information? Contact the City Clerk’s office at 831-420-5030.

Closed Session
12:30 PM
Statements of Disqualification

1. Conference With Legal Counsel – Liability Claims (Government Code §54956.95)
1) Claimant: Kathryn Capaldo
2) Claimant: Gabrielle Dekock
Claims against the City of Santa Cruz

2. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(1))
Purdue Pharma L.P., et al
(United States Bankruptcy Court Southern District of New York Chapter 11 Case No. 19-23649 RDD)
September 9, 2025 City Council 3
Closed Session (continued)

3. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(4))
Initiation of litigation (one potential case to be discussed)

4. Real Property Negotiations (Government Code §54956.8) Property: 1070 River Street
APN: 008-661-18
Owner: City of Santa Cruz
City Negotiator: Bonnie Lipscomb
Negotiating Parties: City of Santa Cruz and Arts Council Santa Cruz County
Under Negotiation: Price, terms of payment, or both
September 9, 2025 City Council 4
City Council
1:30 PM
Call to Order
Roll Call
Oral Communications Announcement – Members of the public may address Council on matters not on the agenda, but within the jurisdiction of the Council. 30 minutes is allocated for Oral Communications. No extra time for groups will be granted.

Oral Communications
Presentations

5. Mayoral Proclamation Declaring September 2025 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

6. National Emergency Preparedness Month
Presiding Officer's Announcements
Statements of Disqualification
Additions and Deletions
City Attorney Report on Closed Session
Council Meeting Calendar

7. The City Council will review the meeting calendar attached to the agenda and revise it as necessary.

September 9, 2025 City Council 5
Consent Agenda

8. Minutes of the August 26, 2025 City Council Meeting (CC) Location: None
Motion to approve as submitted.

9. Resolution Amending the 2025 Council Meeting Calendar (CC) LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to adopt a resolution amending Resolution No. NS-30,435 to revise the 2025 Council meeting calendar and cancel the October 14, 2025 regular meeting.

10. Designation of Councilmember O’Hara as the Voting Delegate for the Annual League of California Cities (LOCC) Conference (CN) LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to designate Councilmember O’Hara as the voting delegate for the Annual League of California Cities Conference General Assembly in Long Beach October 8-10, 2025.

September 9, 2025 City Council 6
Consent Agenda (continued)

11. Authorize the Purchase of Equipment for the Santa Cruz Fire Department with Fire Public Safety Impact Fee Funds – Budget Adjustment (FD)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2026 budget to transfer funds from the Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 217, in the amount of $49,048, to the General Fund budget and add appropriations to purchase equipment for the Santa Cruz Fire Department (SCFD);
2) Direct staff to purchase five (5) high rise packs with Public Safety Impact Fee funds through a cooperative purchasing agreement with L.N. Curtis in the total amount of $18,202.04;
3) Direct staff to purchase fire suppression hoses to allow for the minimum outfitting compliment of the recently acquired reserve Type 3 Wildland Fire Engine (E3138) with Public Safety Impact Fee funds through a cooperative purchasing agreement with L.N. Curtis in the total amount of $8,085.28;
4) Direct staff to purchase fifteen (15) refurbished Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to outfit E3138, frontline Type 6 Wildland Fire Engine (E3144), and various chief vehicles for the department training program using Public Safety Impact Fee funds through a sole source vendor purchase with Dalmatian Fire Equipment in the total amount of $18,388.61; and
5) Direct staff to purchase various wildland firefighting tools for E3138 from multiple vendors in the amount of $4,372.44.

12. Liability Claims Filed Against the City of Santa Cruz (FN) Motion to reject the liability claims of 1) Kathryn Capaldo, and 2) Gabrielle Dekock, based on staff recommendation.

September 9, 2025 City Council 7
Consent Agenda (continued)

13. Memorial Request Honoring Former Mayor Mike Rotkin (PR) LOCATION: District 3
Motion to approve the installation of a memorial plaque at West Cliff above “Its Beach” in honor of Former Mayor Mike Rotkin.

14. Appointment of Two (2) Ex Officio Members to the Sister Cities Committee (PR)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to approve limited term appointments of two (2) ex officio members to serve on the Sister Cities Committee.

15. Wildfire Prevention Grant – Budget Adjustment (PR)
LOCATION: District 1
Motion to:
1) Authorize the Parks and Recreation and Fire Departments to apply for CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention grant funds for the Santa Cruz Regional 911 Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) – Wildfire Risk Reduction Project (g3026XX) and, if awarded:
2) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2026 revenue and expenditure budget in the amount of $315,819 for project g3026XX;
3) Appropriate awarded funds into the above referenced project; and 4) Direct the City Manager or his designee to negotiate, execute, enter into, and deliver any necessary contracts, agreements, documents and amendments required to implement the project, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney.

16. Measure Q Expenditure Plan and Status Update (PR)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion to approve and adopt the proposed expenditure plan for City of Santa Cruz Measure Q allocation.

September 9, 2025 City Council 8
Consent Agenda (continued)

17. Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project (c401413) – Notice of Completion (PW)
LOCATION: Districts 3 and 4
Motion to accept the work of Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. (Santa Clara, CA) as completed per plans and specifications and authorize the filing of the Notice of Completion for the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project (c401413).

18. Award of Contract to MKN CPM, LLC. for On-Call Construction Management Services (WT)
LOCATION: None
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with MKN CPM, LLC. (San Jose, CA) for On-Call Construction Management Services in a form to be approved by the City Attorney and authorizing the Water Director to execute future contract amendments that do not exceed the formal bid limit.

19. Financial Planning Services for Water Rates (WT)
LOCATION: None
Motion to approve a contract with Bartle Wells Associates (Berkeley, CA) in a not-to-exceed amount of $199,550 for financial planning and cost-of-service analysis for water rates.

End Consent Agenda
Consent Public Hearings

20. Second Reading and Final Adoption of Ordinance No. 2025-18 to Amend Municipal Code Chapter 24.04.160 to Extend the Active Life of Commercial Permits from Calendar Year 2019 through January 1, 2030 (EDH/PL)
LOCATION: Citywide
Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-18 amending Municipal Code Chapter

24.04.160 to extend the active life of commercial permits from calendar year 2019 through December 31, 2026 to January 1, 2030.

September 9, 2025 City Council 9
Consent Public Hearings (continued)

21. Second Reading and Final Adoption of Ordinance No. 2025-19 to Amend Title 18 of the Municipal Code to Align the Energy Reach Code for Major Renovations and Additions to Existing Single-Family Homes with the 2025 California Building Code Cycle (PL/CM)
LOCATION: Citywide
Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-19 amending Municipal Code Title 18 – Buildings and Construction, amending Chapter 18.15 to modify local amendments to Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations (California Energy Code), aligning the energy reach code for renovations and additions to existing single-family homes with the 2025 California Building Code Cycle. CEQA determination: These amendments are consistent with the Negative Declaration approved for the City of Santa Cruz 2030 Climate Action Plan adopted by City Council on September 13, 2022. The ordinance is also exempt from CEQA under the general rule, 15061(b)(3) and per CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, Class 8, Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources.

General Business

22. Resolution of Intention to Establish the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District (EDH)
LOCATION: Districts 1 and 2
Motion to adopt a Resolution of Intention to Establish the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District and Levy Assessments for Calendar Year 2026 in the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District.

23. San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report (PR)
LOCATION: District 1
Motion to:
1) Accept the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report; and 2) Adopt a finding of categorical exemption pursuant to sections 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies), 15306 (Information Collection), and 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.

September 9, 2025 City Council 10
Public Hearing
The below item will be heard at or around 5:00 p.m., and will proceed as follows:
1) Staff presentation
2) Appellant will have up to 20 minutes to present
3) Applicant will have up to 20 minutes to present.
4) Public Comment
5) Appellant will have 5 minutes to rebut issues raised by applicant and members of the public. No new issues may be raised.
6) Public Hearing will be closed, and Council will deliberate and take action.

24. 1811/1815/1819 Mission Street: CP25-0002 (APN 004-124-31, -32, -34) Appeal of the Planning Commission Approval of a Residential Demolition Authorization Permit, Lot Line Adjustment, Design Permit, and Density Bonus Request to Demolish Three Residential Dwelling Units, Combine Three Lots into One Lot, and Construct a Six-story Mixed Use Building with 67 Residential Units and Ground Floor Commercial Area on Property Located in the C-C (Community Commercial) Zone District and within the Mission Street Urban Design Plan Area. Environmental Review: Categorical Exemption 15305, Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations and Categorical Exemption 15332, In-Fill Development Projects. Owner: Stanford@Water Development LLC. (PL)
LOCATION: District 3
Motion to adopt a resolution denying the appeal thereby upholding the Planning Commission’s acknowledgement of the environmental determination (Categorical Exemption Section 15305, Class 5 and Categorical Exemption Section 15332, Class 32) and approval of the Residential Demolition Authorization Permit, Lot Line Adjustment, Design Permit, and Density Bonus request, based on the findings listed in the draft Resolution and the Conditions of Approval attached as Exhibit “A.”
Adjournment
September 9, 2025 City Council 11

INFORMATION ITEMS PREVIOUSLY DISTRIBUTED TO CITY COUNCILMEMBERS ADDENDUM TO CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – September 9, 2025

25. Public Works Department: Annual San Lorenzo River Vegetation Management and Burrowing Rodent Mitigation Project - 8/19/25 (PWFYI 0111)

MAYOR'S PROCLAMATIONS
ADDENDUM TO CITY COUNCIL AGENDA – SEPTEMBER 9, 2025

26. Proclaiming August 9, 2025 as “Rotary Club of Santa Cruz Sunrise Day” and encouraging all citizens to join in recognizing and celebrating its 40 years of service and impact.

Advisory Body Appointments
The following positions are either currently vacant or the terms are due to expire.

Council will make appointments at a future meeting.

Arts Commission One opening – appointed by Councilmember Brunner.

Board of Building and Fire Appeals One opening – at-large nomination.

County Latino Affairs Commission One opening - at-large nomination.

Historic Preservation Commission One opening – appointed by Mayor Keeley.

Public Hearing
If, in the future, you wish to challenge in court any of the matters on this agenda for which a public hearing is to be conducted, you may be limited to raising only those issues which you (or someone else) raised orally at the public hearing or in written correspondence received by the City at or before the hearing.

Any person seeking to challenge a City Council decision made as a result of a proceeding in which, by law, a hearing is required to be given, evidence is required to be taken, and the discretion in the determination of facts is vested in the City Council, shall be required to commence that action either 60 days or 90 days following the date on which the decision becomes final as provided in Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6 Please refer to code of Civil Procedure 1094.6 to determine how to calculate when a decision becomes “final.” The 60-day rule applies to all public hearings conducted pursuant to the City’s Zoning Ordinance, Title 24, Santa Cruz Municipal Code. The 90-day rule applies to all other public hearings.

Emergency Preparedness Month
2025
PRESENTATION | CITY OF SANTA CRUZ

6.1 COMMUNITY

PREPAREDNESS
Ready Santa Cruz:

1. Alert and Notification

2. Personal and Family
Preparedness

3. Planning together at the
neighborhood level

6.2 6.3

6.4 6.5

6.6 Questions?

6.7 Meeting Type
Holiday
Jewish Holiday
Regular Meeting
Special Meeting (will be added as scheduled)
Study Session (will be added as scheduled)
Budget Hearing
September 22/23
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public October 1/2
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public November 11
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public November 27
November 28
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public December 14/15
December 25
City Council Meeting Calendar for 2025
December 9
City Hall Closure - Thanksgiving Day
City Hall Closure - Day After Thanksgiving Day
September 30
December 23 Meeting Cancelled
City Hall Closure - Christmas Day
Rosh Hashanah (City observed - sundown to sundown)
October 14
October 28
City Hall Closure - Veteran's Day (observed)
Hanukkah (City observed - sundown to sundown)
Yom Kippur (City observed - sundown to sundown)
November 18

7.1 MINUTES ARE UNOFFICIAL UNTIL APPROVED BY COUNCIL
City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060

MINUTES OF A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 26, 2025
1:00 PM
Mayor Keeley opened the City Council Closed Session at 1:03 p.m. in a public meeting via Zoom and in Council Chambers, for the purpose of announcing the agenda, and receiving public testimony.

Roll Call

Present: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

Absent: Councilmember Newsome.

Staff: City Manager M. Huffaker, City Attorney T. Condotti, Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush.

Statements of Disqualification – None.

Public Comment
Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period at 1:04 p.m. There were no speakers. Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period at 1:04 p.m., at which time the meeting was closed to the public and Council adjourned to the Courtyard Conference Room.

8.1 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8024
Closed Session

1. Conference With Legal Counsel – Liability Claims (Government Code §54956.95) 1) Claimant: Curtis P. Thompson
2) Claimant: Francisco Ortega
3) Claimant: CorVel Corporation
4) Claimant: Carlos R. Lopez
Claims against the City of Santa Cruz
Council received a status report, took up under agenda item 10, and no reportable action was taken.

2. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(1))
California Grocers Association, et al. v. City of Santa Cruz, et al. (Sacramento County Superior Court Case No. 25WM000095)
This case is related to the Sweetened Beverage tax. Council received a status report, and no reportable action was taken.

3. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation (Government Code §54956.9(d)(2)
Significant exposure to litigation (one potential case to be discussed) Council received a status report, and no reportable action was taken.

4. Public Employment (Government Code §54957)
City Attorney
Council received a status report, and no reportable action was taken.

8.2 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8025
City of Santa Cruz
809 Center Street
Santa Cruz, California 95060

MINUTES OF A CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 26, 2025
2:30 PM
Call to Order – Mayor Keeley called the meeting to order at 2:35 p.m. in Council Chambers.

Roll Call

Present: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

Absent: Councilmember Newsome.

Staff: City Manager M. Huffaker, Assistant City Manager M. Templeton, City Attorney T. Condotti, Director of Water H. Luckenbach, Deputy City Manager/Director of Economic Development and Housing B. Lipscomb, Director of Public Works N. Nguyen, Director of Planning and Community Development L. Butler, Chief of Police B. Escalante (via Zoom), Director of Finance E. Cabell (via Zoom), Chief of Fire R. Oatey (via Zoom), Chief People Officer S. DeLeon (via Zoom), Director of Parks and Recreation T. Elliot (via Zoom), Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer K.

Crossley, Transportation Manager M. Starkey, Economic Development Manager R. Unitt, Deputy City Clerk Administrator J. Wood, City Clerk Administrator B. Bush.

Oral Communications Announcement - The Mayor provided a brief announcement about Oral Communications.

Oral Communications
At 2:36 p.m. Mayor Keeley opened Oral Communications for members of the public who wished to speak regarding items not listed on the City Council agenda.

Ami Chen-Mills spoke regarding ALPR Flock cameras being used in California without license and asked Council to pause their current contract.

Garrett spoke in opposition to the upcoming ballot measure and in using a QR code for the Bethany Curve Bridge Culvert Art Project.

8.3 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8026
Oral Communications (continued)
Unidentified person spoke regarding segment 9 of the Rail Trail.

Bruce Thomas spoke regarding “amenity spaces” in new developments.

Kim Hill spoke with concerns for illegal activity and severe fire risks at Arana Gulch due to encampments.

Sadie Rose spoke regarding Santa Cruz as a sanctuary city.

Joy LeClair spoke with concerns for fire risks at Arana Gulch.

Rebecca Lundburg spoke with concerns for the noise and potential illegal activity coming from the encampments at Arana Gulch.

John Roskelley spoke with concerns regarding his status of work with the City.

Dave Doleshal spoke regarding discrimination toward people in polyamorous relationships.

Unidentified person spoke regarding the CZU fires, and the dead wood that remains above the UCSC campus.

Moody Tavoigt spoke with concerns for an influx of people in the alley way behind her home, a break-in that recently happened and activity around Arana Gulch including potential fire risks.

James Ewing Whitman spoke regarding crossing the bridge at Arana Gulch at night, and his son playing video games and ability to drive large equipment.

At 3:01 p.m. Mayor Keeley closed Oral Communications.

Presentations

5. Mayoral Proclamation Declaring August 9, 2025, as Rotary Club of Santa Cruz Sunrise Day
Councilmember Trigueiro read from a proclamation declaring August 9, 2025 as Rotary Club of Santa Cruz Sunrise Day. David Price, Rotary Club President, spoke.

8.4 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8027
Presentations (continued)

6. Second Harvest Food Bank
Erica Padilla-Chavez, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County, gave a presentation.

Presiding Officer's Announcements
Statements of Disqualification – None.

Additions and Deletions – None.

City Attorney Report on Closed Session – See page 8024 for the report.

Council Meeting Calendar

7. The City Council reviewed and did not revise the meeting calendar attached to the agenda.

Consent Agenda
Councilmember Trigueiro made a comment on item 11.

Councilmember O’Hara made a comment on item 9.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. The following person spoke:

James Ewing-Whitmen spoke regarding items 8 and 9.

Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Councilmember Golder moved, seconded by Councilmember O’Hara, to approve the Consent Agenda.

ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: Councilmember Newsome.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

8.5 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8028
Consent Agenda (continued)

8. Minutes of the August 12, 2025 City Council Meeting (CC) LOCATION: None
Motion carried to approve as submitted.

9. Approve Fifth Amendment to the Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement Establishing the Santa Cruz County Library Financing Authority, and Take Related Actions – Budget Adjustment (CM)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to:
 Approve the Fifth Amendment to the Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement Establishing the Santa Cruz County Library Financing Authority (LFA) to establish new contributions and extend the term through June 30, 2032;  Authorize the City Manager or designee to sign the amendment; and  Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,543 amending the FY 2026 budget in the amount of $363,747 to fully fund the City of Santa Cruz Maintenance of Effort contribution contained in the Fifth Amendment.

10. Liability Claims Filed Against the City of Santa Cruz (FN) Motion carried to reject the liability claims of 1) Curtis P. Thompson, 2) Francisco Ortega, 3) CorVel Corporation, and 4) Carlos R. Lopez, based on staff recommendation.

8.6 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8029
Consent Agenda (continued)

11. Market Street Senior Center Accessibility Improvement Project (c302101) – CEQA Exemption (14 CCR 15061) (PR)
LOCATION: District 1
Motion carried to:
 Approve the plans and specifications for the Market Street Senior Center Accessibility Improvement Project (c302101);
 Authorize the issuance of an invitation for bid (IFB) for the project and award the contract. The City Manager is hereby authorized and directed to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney. The Director of Parks and Recreation is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget; and
 Approve of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) determination contained in this agenda report. The Council’s action is exempt from CEQA review under (1) Class 1 Categorical Exemption (14 CCR 15301) for existing facilities, and (2) Common Sense Exemption (14 CCR 15061).

12. Award Contract for Fire Station 1 Roof Restoration – Budget Adjustment (PW) LOCATION: District 4
Motion carried to:
 Award a contract for the purchase of Fire Station 1 Roof Restoration from Weatherproofing Technologies, Inc (Beachwood, OH) in the amount of $111,464.25. The Public Works Director is authorized to execute change orders within the approved project budget;
 Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,544 amending the FY 2026 budget in the amount of $260,000 to move funds into project m402502; and
 Approve this agenda report’s CEQA determination, including adopting findings of categorical exemption pursuant to Sections 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines.

8.7 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8030
Consent Agenda (continued)

13. 2025 Sewer System Management Plan – Certification (PW) LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to:
 Adopt Resolution No. NS-30,545 approving the certification of the 2025 Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) for the City of Santa Cruz; and  Approve of the CEQA determination in this agenda report, including adopting finding of categorical exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines § 15301 (existing facilities) and § 15302 (replacement or reconstruction of existing facilities).

14. Pacific-Beach Roundabout Enhancements Project (c402507) – Budget Adjustment (PW)
LOCATION: District 4
Resolution No. NS-30,546 was adopted amending the FY 2025 budget to appropriate funds in the amount of $330,000.00 from Transportation Development Act Fund (TDA), Traffic Impact Fee (TIF) and City Liability Fund to the Pacific-Beach Roundabout Enhancements Project (c402507).

End Consent Agenda
Consent Public Hearing
Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. There were no speakers. Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson moved, seconded by Councilmember Trigueiro, to approve the Consent Public Hearing Agenda.

ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: Councilmember Newsome.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

8.8 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8031
Consent Public Hearings (continued)

15. First Reading of Ordinance to Amend Municipal Code Chapter 24.04.160 to Extend the Active Life of Commercial Permits from Calendar Year 2019 through January 1, 2030 (EDH/PL)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to:
 Introduce for publication Ordinance No. 2025-18 amending Municipal Code Chapter 24.04.160 to extend the active life of commercial permits from calendar year 2019 through December 31, 2026 to January 1, 2030; and  Approve of the CEQA determination contained in this Agenda Report. The City Council’s action is exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).

16. Amendments to Title 18 of the Municipal Code to Align the Energy Reach Code for Major Renovations and Additions to Existing Single-Family Homes with the 2025 California Building Code Cycle (PL/CM)
LOCATION: Citywide
Motion carried to introduce for publication Ordinance No. 2025-19 amending Municipal Code Title 18 – Buildings and Construction, amending Chapter 18.15 to modify local amendments to Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations (California Energy Code), aligning the energy reach code for renovations and additions to existing single-family homes with the 2025 California Building Code Cycle. CEQA determination: These amendments are consistent with the Negative Declaration approved for the City of Santa Cruz 2030 Climate Action Plan adopted by City Council on September 13, 2022. The ordinance is also exempt from CEQA under the general rule, 15061(b)(3) and per CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, Class 8, Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources.

8.9 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8032
General Business

17. Transit Proximate Developments: Transportation and Parking Challenges (CN) LOCATION: Citywide
Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson and Councilmembers Trigueiro and O’Hara spoke.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.

Unidentified person
Brett Garrett
Garrett
Deborah Marks
Unidentified person
Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson moved, seconded by Councilmember O’Hara, to:
 Direct staff to conduct a review of potential policy options to mitigate parking issues associated with transit-proximate developments and evaluate feasibility, potential costs, and the impact of each option on residents, developers, schools, business workers, and visitors;  Direct staff to engage with the Transportation and Public Works Commission, Downtown Commission, Planning Commission, Downtown Management Corporation, Visit Santa Cruz County, and Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce to solicit feedback on related transportation and parking policy;
 Direct staff to return to Council within six months with an assessment of potential solutions, including recommendations for specific actions, funding sources, and any necessary policy changes; and
 Include mitigation of mobility and parking impacts on the City’s State Legislative Platform agenda.

8.10 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8033
General Business

17. Transit Proximate Developments: Transportation and Parking Challenges (CN) LOCATION: Citywide (continued)
ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: Councilmember Newsome.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

Direction to Staff:

Mayor Keeley requested Government Code Section 65.915 be included in the review of potential policy options.

18. Update on Actions to Support Seabright and Harbor Businesses Affected by the Murray Street Bridge Project (CM/PW/ED)
LOCATION: District 2, Citywide
Director of Public Works N. Nguyen introduced the item.

Assistant Director of Public Works/City Engineer K. Crossley, Transportation Manager M. Starkey, and Economic Development Manager R. Unitt gave a presentation and responded to Council questions.

Mayor Keeley opened the public comment period. The following people spoke.

Unidentified person
Unidentified person
Brad Snyder
Saladine Sale
Brian Peoples
Matt Ferrell
Unidentified person
Joan
Dianne Dryer
Myles Corcoran
Unidentified person
Unidentified person
Unidentified person
Mark Magdaleno

8.11 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8034
General Business (continued)

18. Update on Actions to Support Seabright and Harbor Businesses Affected by the Murray Street Bridge Project (CM/PW/ED) LOCATION: District 2, Citywide (continued)
Public Comment (continued):

Unidentified person
Unidentified person
Rebecca Moore
Mayor Keeley closed the public comment period.

MOTION: Councilmember Brunner moved, seconded by Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson, to:
1) Receive information on the feasibility to implement a temporary pedestrian and bicycle path on the Harbor Rail Bridge;
2) Receive information on one lane, two-way traffic;
3) Receive information on expanded transit alternatives; 4) Receive information on Saturday work and project schedule constraints; 5) Receive information related to the Harbor and Seabright business survey conducted in August;
6) Authorize the Director of Public Works to temporarily modify parking meters on lower Seabright Avenue to include free 2-hour parking and direct staff to return to Council with a proposed Municipal Code update to establish emergency authority;
7) Direct staff to work with the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District to enhance transit service to Seabright and the Harbor;
8) Direct staff to work with the Harbor District to support extended operations for Harbor water taxi service;
9) Direct staff to install additional signage encouraging visitors to shop and dine at Seabright and Harbor businesses at prominent high-traffic locations;

8.12 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8035
General Business (continued)

18. Update on Actions to Support Seabright and Harbor Businesses Affected by the Murray Street Bridge Project (CM/PW/ED) LOCATION: District 2, Citywide (continued)
MOTION (continued):
10)Direct staff to implement a series of marketing efforts and promotional events as outlined in the staff report;
11)Direct staff to provide low interest guaranteed loans for Seabright and Harbor businesses and explore potential lower interest rates and Cityfunded principal and/or interest-only payments for the first year; 12)Direct staff to provide individualized free business consulting and web development through GetVirtual; and
13)Direct staff to extend the outdoor dining permits for Seabright and Harbor businesses.
14)Direct staff to continue next steps with the Regional Transportation Commission and other appropriate bodies on the implementation of a temporary access path across the rail bridge that is adjacent to the Murray Street Bridge, in the most expedited manner, and pursue additional funding through Congressional and State Representatives’ offices and other sources to support the Harbor Rail Bridge Project (i.e., community project funds); 15)Direct staff to pursue implantation of a two-way traffic control plan during one-lane partial bridge closures;
16)Direct staff to reassess and replace locations of signage including signage that indicates Murray Street Bridge closure and detour routes that are directing vehicles away from Seabright businesses;
17)Direct staff to explore providing grant programs with verifiable sales tax data when loans are not feasible;
18)Direct staff to advocate for reinstallation of Metro Route 3A in an expedited manner with Metro and do not pursue parking lane closures on Seabright Avenue; and
19)Establish an ad hoc committee of three councilmembers and appropriate staff to continue Seabright and Harbor business/resident coordination and support.

8.13 August 26, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8036
General Business (continued)

18. Update on Actions to Support Seabright and Harbor Businesses Affected by the Murray Street Bridge Project (CM/PW/ED) LOCATION: District 2, Citywide (continued)
ACTION: The motion carried with the following vote.

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: Councilmember O’Hara.

ABSENT: Councilmember Newsome.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

Adjournment – Councilmember Trigueiro moved, seconded by Councilmember Golder, to adjourn. By consensus City Council adjourned at 5:37 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted:

Julia Wood, Deputy City Clerk Administrator
Attest:

Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
Approved:

Fred Keeley, Mayor

8.14 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/19/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: City Clerk
SUBJECT: Resolution Amending the 2025 Council Meeting Calendar (CC) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to adopt a resolution amending Resolution No. NS-30,435 to revise the 2025 Council meeting calendar and cancel the October 14, 2025 regular meeting.

BACKGROUND: At the October 22, 2024 Council meeting, the City Council adopted a resolution setting the 2025 meeting calendar. The calendar was amended by resolution on February 11, 2025.

DISCUSSION: City Council meetings are typically held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, with a recess in July, as well as the fourth Tuesday in December. On occasion, adjustments to the meeting schedule are necessary due to limited Mayor and/or Councilmember availability or a lack of actionable items. Staff is recommending cancellation of the October 18th Council meeting, as the agenda is expected to contain minimal actionable items and two Councilmembers will be unavailable due to their participation in the Shingu Sister City Delegation visit.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: Not applicable. The resolution amending the 2025 Council meeting calendar does not require CEQA review as it does not meet the definition of a Project under CEQA as it does not have the potential to result in either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This administrative process of amending the Council calendar is not related to Health in All Policies.

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: No impacts.

9.1 Prepared By:

Bonnie Bush
City Clerk
Submitted By:

Michelle Templeton
Assistant City Manager
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RESOLUTION.DOC

2. CALENDAR OF REMAINING 2025 COUNCIL MEETINGS - AMENDED.PDF

9.2 RESOLUTION NO. NSRESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. NS-30,435 TO AMEND THE 2025 COUNCIL MEETING CALENDAR TO CANCEL THE OCTOBER 14TH REGULAR MEETING
WHEREAS, the City Council usually meets regularly on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month; and
WHEREAS, the regular meeting of October 14, 2025 is projected to have minimal action items and two Councilmembers will be unavailable due to their participation in the Shingu Sister City Delegation visit;
WHEREAS, the remainder of the calendar of regular meetings will stay as previously approved, including the cancellation of the November 12th and 26th meetings and addition of November 19th, and the cancellation of the second meeting in December; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz that the October 14, 2025 meeting will be cancelled.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 9th day of September, 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

9.3 Meeting Type
Holiday
Jewish Holiday
Regular Meeting
Special Meeting (will be added as scheduled)
Study Session (will be added as scheduled)
Budget Hearing
September 22/23
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public October 1/2
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public November 11
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public November 27
November 28
Courtyard Conf. Room Closed Session - Closed to the Public Council Chambers Council Regular Meeting - Open to the Public December 14/15
December 25
December 23 Meeting Cancelled
City Hall Closure - Christmas Day
Rosh Hashanah (City observed - sundown to sundown)
October 28
City Hall Closure - Veteran's Day (observed)
Hanukkah (City observed - sundown to sundown)
Yom Kippur (City observed - sundown to sundown)
November 18
City Council Meeting Calendar for 2025
December 9
City Hall Closure - Thanksgiving Day
City Hall Closure - Day After Thanksgiving Day
September 30

9.4 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/21/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: City Council
SUBJECT: Designation of Councilmember O’Hara as the Voting Delegate for the Annual League of California Cities (LOCC) Conference (CN) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to designate Councilmember O’Hara as the voting delegate for the Annual League of California Cities Conference General Assembly in Long Beach October 8-10, 2025.

BACKGROUND: At the June 24, 2025 Council meeting, Councilmember Brunner was appointed the General Assembly voting delegate for the Annual LOCC Conference General Assembly.

The Council is required to take formal action to designate a delegate to represent the City of Santa Cruz.

One very important aspect of the conference is the session to consider and take action on conference resolutions. This session is scheduled for Friday, October 10th. Annual conference resolutions guide cities and the LOCC in their efforts to improve the quality, responsiveness, and vitality of local government in California. It is therefore important that all cities be represented.

DISCUSSION: Councilmember Brunner is no longer able to participate in the October 10th General Assembly at the Annual LOCC Conference, so Council must name a new delegate.

Councilmember O’Hara expressed interest, and it is recommended that Council appoint her to represent Santa Cruz.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: This is not a project under CEQA.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): By participating along with other cities in their efforts to improve the quality, responsiveness and vitality of local governments in California, this action supports and advances the HiAP pillars of equity, public health and sustainability.

10.1 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: Funds have been budgeted to pay for City Council meeting/travel expenses.

Prepared By:

Bonnie Bush
City Clerk
Submitted By:

Fred Keeley
Mayor
ATTACHMENTS:

None.

10.2 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/21/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Fire
SUBJECT: Authorize the Purchase of Equipment for the Santa Cruz Fire Department with Fire Public Safety Impact Fee Funds – Budget Adjustment (FD) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2026 budget to transfer funds from the Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 217, in the amount of $49,048, to the General Fund budget and add appropriations to purchase equipment for the Santa Cruz Fire Department (SCFD); 2) Direct staff to purchase five (5) high rise packs with Public Safety Impact Fee funds through a cooperative purchasing agreement with L.N. Curtis in the total amount of $18,202.04; 3) Direct staff to purchase fire suppression hoses to allow for the minimum outfitting compliment of the recently acquired reserve Type 3 Wildland Fire Engine (E3138) with Public Safety Impact Fee funds through a cooperative purchasing agreement with L.N. Curtis in the total amount of $8,085.28;
4) Direct staff to purchase fifteen (15) refurbished Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to outfit E3138, frontline Type 6 Wildland Fire Engine (E3144), and various chief vehicles for the department training program using Public Safety Impact Fee funds through a sole source vendor purchase with Dalmatian Fire Equipment in the total amount of $18,388.61; and 5) Direct staff to purchase various wildland firefighting tools for E3138 from multiple vendors in the amount of $4,372.44.

BACKGROUND: On April 27, 2021, the City Council adopted the Public Safety Impact Fee (PSIF) Ordinance No. 2021-11 Public Safety Impact Fees as defined in the Santa Cruz Municipal Code, Chapter 18.49. The ordinance permits fees to be collected on building permits for new development to maintain acceptable levels of police and fire services by paying its fair share for the cost of public safety facilities with a life of five (5) years or longer (i.e., buildings, vehicles, equipment, etc.) necessitated by the burdens of new development within the City of Santa Cruz (City).

11.1 Fire and Police contracted with DTA, a public finance, development economics and clean energy bond consulting firm in 2024 to review the City’s PSIFs. DTA produced a comprehensive 2025 Public Safety Development Impact Fee Nexus Study that evaluates the adequacy of existing fees, identifies future infrastructure requirements, calculates the cost of maintaining acceptable levels of public safety services, and offers actionable recommendations to update the PSIF fee schedule to close funding gaps. The 2025 Public Safety Development Impact Fee Nexus Study was brought to City Council in 2025 resulting in an amended PSIF Ordinance 2025-13, passed on May 27, 2025.

The SCFD requires increasingly specialized equipment for responding to calls for service including structural and wildland fire suppression, emergency medical services, vehicle accidents, and technical rescue. All frontline and reserve apparatus and staff vehicles need to be outfitted with specific equipment to ensure seamless response for all call types. The purchase of a reserve Type 3 Wildland Fire Engine (E3138) from Scotts Valley Fire Protection District and the acquisition of a frontline Type 6 Wildland Fire Engine (E3144) through federal earmark funding necessitates the purchase of equipment to outfit the engines to current equipment standards per Incident Command System (ICS) requirements.

DISCUSSION: SCFD plans to utilize PSIF funds to purchase necessary equipment for training as well as vehicle and apparatus outfitting that falls outside of the General Fund operating budget. This equipment purchase would include high rise packs, fire suppression hoses, SCBA, and various wildland firefighting tools with PSIF funds.

High rise packs consist of attack hoses and associated equipment that allow quick access to elevated residential buildings and expansive or complex commercial buildings. High rise packs allow firefighters to connect into pre-plumbed Fire Department Connections (FDC) in stairwell standpipes. This facilitates active firefighting and enables firefighters to engage with and mitigate active fires quickly. A cooperative purchase agreement through Sourcewell (contract # 010424-LNC) will be utilized to secure competitive pricing on five (5) new high rise packs. The total cost to purchase five (5) high rise packs with Public Safety Impact Fee funds will total $18,202.04.

The SCFD will be purchasing fire suppression hoses for E3144 and E3138 to meet current equipment standards per Incident Command System (ICS) requirements to allow for the minimum outfitting compliment of the wildland fire engines. A cooperative purchase agreement through Sourcewell (contract # 010424-LNC) will be utilized to secure competitive pricing on the fire suppression hoses in the total amount of $8,085.28.

Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) provide respiratory protection for firefighters while engaged in active vehicle fires, active structure fires, hazardous material mitigation calls, gas releases, and during training exercises. The fifteen (15) SCBA purchased with PSIF funds will be utilized for the SCFD training program as well as to outfit wildland fire engines E3138, E3144 and various chief vehicles. SCFD’s current SCBA model is no longer available for purchase as new. To maintain consistency across the Department for seamless use of breathing apparatus and associated compressor filling stations, refurbished units are being purchased. The quantity of SCBA units required by SCFD at this time are available in refurbished condition solely through this vendor. The SCBA will be procured through Dalmatian Fire Equipment through a Sole Source Vendor Justification Form.

11.2 Wildland firefighting tools are essential equipment utilized on wildland fire engines. Chainsaws and hand tools are necessary to cut brush and create fire lines during wildland fire prevention and suppression activities. The wildland firefighting tools purchased with PSIF funds will be utilized to outfit wildland fire engines E3138 and E3144.

Section 3.08.170 of the Municipal Ordinance allows the City to buy from cooperative purchasing agreements when it is in the City’s best interest to do so. Cooperative purchasing is a form of purchasing that leverages the buying power of multiple government agencies to get the best pricing and favorable contract terms and conditions. Hundreds of contracts are available to use that offer competitively priced contracts for almost every good or service the City purchases.

As of August 21, 2025, Fund 217 Fire Public Safety Impact Fee has a balance of $215,984.78 and will cover 100 percent of the purchase of equipment for the SCFD outlined in this agenda report.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed procurement of equipment for the SCFD is not a “Project” under CEQA. CEQA applies to activities that may result in direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical changes to the environment. Under CEQA Guidelines §15061(b)(3) (Common-Sense Exemption), if an activity has no potential for environmental impact, it is not subject to CEQA review.

Additionally, CEQA Guidelines §15301 applies to the operation, maintenance, and minor alteration of existing public facilities and equipment with no expansion of use, making routine vehicle replacements exempt. Furthermore, CEQA Guidelines §15302 covers the replacement or reconstruction of existing facilities where the new equipment serves the same purpose and capacity.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The purchase of equipment for the SCFD using public safety impact fee funds supports the City’s HiAP pillar of Public Health through dedicated City funding towards sustaining essential fire equipment to adequately serve existing and new residents, City employees, and visitors.

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 equipment for the SCFD will be purchased out of the General Fund with funding of $49,048 transferred in from the Fire Public Safety Impact Fee 217 Fund. The net fiscal impact to the General Fund is zero.

Prepared By:

Megan Nutt
Principal Management
Analyst
Submitted By:

Rob Oatey
Fire Chief
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager

11.3 ATTACHMENTS:

1. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT.PDF

2. HIGH RISE PACKS QUOTE.PDF

3. FIRE SUPPRESSION HOSES QUOTE.PDF

4. SCBA QUOTE.PDF

5. WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING TOOLS QUOTE.PDF

6. SOLE SOURCE VENDOR JUSTIFICATION.PDF

11.4 City of Santa Cruz

BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
$GPLQLVWUDWLYH$SSURYDO
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ACCOUNT 352-(&71$0(
LIDSSOLFDEOH
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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
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TOTAL EXPENDITURE

TOTALREVENUE
'DWH

1VSQPTF
3FWJTFE/PWFNCFS
Clear Form
2026
08/21/2025
Transfer funds $49,048 from the Fire Department's Public Safety Impact Fee Fund 217-21-31-2207-46348 into the Fire Department FY26 budget 101-21-31-2202-57490 (Other Machinery and equipment) for the purchase of five (5) high rise packs, fifteen (15) Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), fire suppression hoses and various wildland firefighting tools. 101-00-00-0000-49183 p212602-993-0-0 From Public Safety Impact Fee Fire Fund 49,048 49,048
101-21-31-2202-57490 p212602-100-2020-0 Other Machinery and equipment 49,048 217-00-00-0000-59101 To general fund from public safety impact fee fire fund 49,048 98,096
-49,048
Kimberle
e Steele
Digitally signed by
Kimberlee Steele
Date: 2025.08.21
14:59:12 -07'00'
Robert
Oatey
Digitally signed
by Robert Oatey
Date: 2025.08.21
15:05:57 -07'00'
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2025.08.25
'12:19:30 -07'00
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2025.08.26
17:38:08 -07'00' 11.5
Ph: 510-839-5111
TF: 800-443-3556
[email protected]
UEI#: DDLSADSWN7U7
Pacific North Division
6723 Sierra Court, Suite C
Dublin, CA 94568
www.LNCurtis.com

Page 1 of 2 ends

Quotation
CUSTOMER: SHIP TO:

Santa Cruz City Fire
Department CA
230 Walnut Avenue
Santa Cruz CA 95060
Santa Cruz City Fire
Department CA
Attn: Eric Chitwood
230 Walnut Avenue
Santa Cruz CA 95060
QUOTATION NO. ISSUED DATE EXPIRATION DATE
353707 07/31/2025 09/30/2025

SALESPERSON CUSTOMER SERVICE REP
Bill Lianides
[email protected]
510-839-5111
Randy Pascua
[email protected]
510-268-3302
REQUISITION NO. REQUESTING PARTY CUSTOMER NO. TERMS OFFER CLASS Eric Chitwood C33060 Net 30 NPP-FFE
F.O.B. SHIP VIA DELIVERY REQ. BY
DEST Standard Shipping

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
Per NPPGov contract #PS20015 (Firefighting Equipment)

NOTES & DISCLAIMERS
Thank you for this opportunity to quote. We are pleased to offer requested items below. If you have any questions, need additional information, or would like to place an order, please contact your Customer Service Rep as noted above.

Safety Warning Notice: Products offered, sold, or invoiced herewith may have an applicable Safety Data Sheet (SDS) as prepared by the manufacturer of the product. The SDS is provided with the product. In addition, manufacturer’s safety and/or warning notices, instructions and information relating to the proper use and care of the product is provided with the product. All applicable SDS, safety and/or warning notices, instructions and other information provided with the product should be thoroughly read, reviewed, and understood prior to handling, distributing, using, reselling, or servicing any and all products provided by Curtis. Materials utilized to clean, repair, maintain and/or service your owned equipment, as well as Curtis owned equipment, may contain per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to meet national standards or original equipment manufacturer specifications. For other important product notices and warnings, or to request an SDS, product specifications, manufacturer’s safety notices, instructions and/or warning notices, please contact Curtis or visit https://www.lncurtis.com/product-notices-warnings Transportation is included in below pricing.

LN QTY UNIT PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION PL UNIT PRICE TOTAL PRICE 1 5 EA FSS8 TFT 1.5NH X 7/8" Orifice Straight Tip NFR $137.00 $685.00 2 5 EA H3VONJNJ TFT 2.5NHF X 2.5NHM Big Boy Shutoff Valve NFR $817.00 $4,085.00 3 5 EA H-VO TFT 1.5NHF X 1.5NHM Detent Shutoff Valve NFR $451.00 $2,255.00 4 5 EA H-A TFT 2.5NHF X 1.5NHM Hose Adapter NFR $182.00 $910.00

11.6 Ph: 510-839-5111
TF: 800-443-3556
[email protected]
UEI#: DDLSADSWN7U7
Pacific North Division
6723 Sierra Court, Suite C
Dublin, CA 94568
www.LNCurtis.com

Page 2 of 2 ends

LN QTY UNIT PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION PL UNIT PRICE TOTAL PRICE 5 5 EA J25G300S TFT 2.5NHF X 2.5NHM 300# Inline Pitot
Pressure Gauge, with 20 Degree
Pivoting Outlet
NFR $495.00 $2,475.00
6 10 EA 101 RH Universal Spanner Wrench NFR $27.00 $270.00 7 5 EA FG25X50RK25N

SNAP-TITE

2.5X50' Cpld 2.5NH Red With Black
Stripe Ponn Gladiator Poly Dj Attack
Hose
NFR $484.00 $2,420.00
8 5 EA FG17X100R15N

SNAP-TITE

1.75X100' Cpld 1.5NH Red Ponn
Gladiator Poly Dj Attack Hose
NFR $697.00 $3,485.00
Small Business
CAGE Code: 5E720
SIC Code: 5099
Federal Tax ID: 94-1214350
UEI #DDLSADSWN7U7
This pricing generally remains firm until 09/30/2025. Pricing is subject to change if product is affected by the implementation of a tariff. Contact us for updated pricing after this date.

Due to market volatility, global supply chain pressures, and supply shortages, we recommend contacting your local L.N. Curtis and sons office prior to placing your order to confirm pricing and availability. This excludes our GSA Contract and other Fixed Price Contracts which are governed by contract-specific prices, terms, and conditions.

Subtotal $16,585.00
Estimated Tax Total $1,617.04
Transportation $0.00
Total $18,202.04
View Terms of Sale and Return Policy

11.7 Ph: 510-839-5111
TF: 800-443-3556
[email protected]
UEI#: DDLSADSWN7U7
Pacific North Division
6723 Sierra Court, Suite C
Dublin, CA 94568
www.LNCurtis.com

Page 1 of 2 ends

Quotation
CUSTOMER: SHIP TO:

Santa Cruz City Fire
Department CA
230 Walnut Avenue
Santa Cruz CA 95060
Santa Cruz City Fire
Department CA
230 Walnut Avenue
Santa Cruz CA 95060
QUOTATION NO. ISSUED DATE EXPIRATION DATE
342685 04/29/2025 09/30/2025

SALESPERSON CUSTOMER SERVICE REP
Bill Lianides
[email protected]
510-839-5111
Randy Pascua
[email protected]
510-268-3302
REQUISITION NO. REQUESTING PARTY CUSTOMER NO. TERMS OFFER CLASS Eric Chitwood C33060 Net 30 FR
F.O.B. SHIP VIA DELIVERY REQ. BY
SP Standard Shipping

LN QTY UNIT PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION PL UNIT PRICE TOTAL PRICE 1 10 EA 8D25X50O25N

SNAP-TITE

2.5X50' Cpld 2.5NH Ora 400# Dj Poly
Hose
$269.00 $2,690.00
2 2 EA 8D17X100B15N

SNAP-TITE

1.75X100' Cpld 1.5NH Blue 400# Dj Poly
Hose
$359.00 $718.00
3 1 EA DF15X25Y15EN
NAFH

1.5X25' Coupled 1.5NH Yellow DuraFlow 800 DJ Hose$119.00 $119.00 4 2 EA DJ25X25R25N

FIREQUIP

2.5"X25' with 2.5" NH Couplings Red
DJ800 Double Jacket EPDM Rubber
Lined Polyester Fire Hose
$169.00 $338.00

11.8 Ph: 510-839-5111
TF: 800-443-3556
[email protected]
UEI#: DDLSADSWN7U7
Pacific North Division
6723 Sierra Court, Suite C
Dublin, CA 94568
www.LNCurtis.com

Page 2 of 2 ends

LN QTY UNIT PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION PL UNIT PRICE TOTAL PRICE 5 10 EA 187II15X100YFN
NAFH

1.5X100' Coupled 1.5NH Yellow 187
Spec Type II SJ Hose
$199.00 $1,990.00
6 8 EA 187II1X100YFI
NAFH
1X100' Coupled 1NPSH Yellow 187
Spec Type II SJ Hose
$189.00 $1,512.00
Small Business
CAGE Code: 5E720
SIC Code: 5099
Federal Tax ID: 94-1214350
UEI #DDLSADSWN7U7
This pricing generally remains firm until 09/30/2025. Pricing is subject to change if product is affected by the implementation of a tariff. Contact us for updated pricing after this date.

Subtotal $7,367.00
Estimated Tax Total $718.28
Transportation* $0.00
*(to be added when order ships)
Total $8,085.28
View Terms of Sale and Return Policy

11.9 QUOTE
Date
8/19/2025
Quote #
22589
Name / Address
Santa Cruz FD
Kimberlee Steele
230 Walnut Ave.

Santa Cruz, Ca 95060
US
Ship To
Santa Cruz FD
Kimberlee Steele
230 Walnut Ave.

Santa Cruz, CA 95060
USA
Terms
Net 30
Sales Rep
BSC
Quote Requsted By Estimated Ship Time
QUOTE GOOD FOR 30 DAYS. Total
Customer Phone 831-420-5280 Customer Fax
Dalmatian Fire Equipment, LLC
75 Oak Avenue
Eaton, CO 80615
Phone: 800-436-6450
Fax: 888-436-6451
[email protected]
www.DalmatianFire.com
This Order Confirmation must be signed and returned within 30 days to be valid. If you have any question, please call or email: [email protected] Disclaimer: By signing this agreement, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to all the terms and conditions outlined in the following documents: https://dalmatianfire.com/terms-and-conditions/ U.S.A. CANADA
Dalmatian® Fire Equipment, LLC. is the leading supplier of pre-owned Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and cylinders in North America, dedicated to quality, safety, and expert testing. We offer a large inventory of refurbished fire and breathing equipment, committed to providing the air you need at a price you can afford. Thank you for choosing Dalmatian® Fire Equipment Description Qty Cost Total
Scott 5.5 X3 CBRN 2013 Spec SCBA, Pak Alert SE-7, Dual EBSS, Snap Change Cylinder Connection, CLEANED & TESTED
15 1,550.00 23,250.00T
Subtotal of Prior Items in US$ 23,250.00
Discount -30.00% -6,975.00
Shipping & Handling / Freight charges to US Locations - Shipping included
4 120.00 480.00T
Total sales tax calculated by AvaTax 1,633.62 1,633.62

SALES TAX CAN ONLY BE REMOVED FROM THIS ORDER

UPON DALMATIAN'S RECEIPT OF A CURRENT SALES TAX
EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE PRIOR TO ORDER SHIPMENT.

Certificate must be valid in the ship-to state. Dalmatian must remit sales tax promptly after shipment regardless of your payment terms.

ANY TAXABLE SALES NOT CHARGED SALES TAX HERE

MUST SEPARATELY REMIT THE APPROPRIATE USE TAX
TO THE SHIP TO STATE.

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11.10 QUOTE
Date
8/19/2025
Quote #
22589
Name / Address
Santa Cruz FD
Kimberlee Steele
230 Walnut Ave.

Santa Cruz, Ca 95060
US
Ship To
Santa Cruz FD
Kimberlee Steele
230 Walnut Ave.

Santa Cruz, CA 95060
USA
Terms
Net 30
Sales Rep
BSC
Quote Requsted By Estimated Ship Time
QUOTE GOOD FOR 30 DAYS. Total
Customer Phone 831-420-5280 Customer Fax
Dalmatian Fire Equipment, LLC
75 Oak Avenue
Eaton, CO 80615
Phone: 800-436-6450
Fax: 888-436-6451
[email protected]
www.DalmatianFire.com
This Order Confirmation must be signed and returned within 30 days to be valid. If you have any question, please call or email: [email protected] Disclaimer: By signing this agreement, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to all the terms and conditions outlined in the following documents: https://dalmatianfire.com/terms-and-conditions/ U.S.A. CANADA
Dalmatian® Fire Equipment, LLC. is the leading supplier of pre-owned Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and cylinders in North America, dedicated to quality, safety, and expert testing. We offer a large inventory of refurbished fire and breathing equipment, committed to providing the air you need at a price you can afford. Thank you for choosing Dalmatian® Fire Equipment Description Qty Cost Total
Dalmatian Fire Equipment Price Match Guarantee
We'll Beat Any Competitor's Price!
At Dalmatian Fire Equipment, we are committed to being your low-cost supplier of SCBA's and Cylinders. To ensure you receive the best value, we guarantee to beat any published price for comparable SCBA's and cylinders we have in stock. Proof of the competitor’s price must be provided via a complete copy of the current advertisement or quote.

Ensure you get the best deal on your SCBA's and cylinders with Dalmatian Fire Equipment. For any questions or to submit a price match request, please contact our customer service team.

Thank you for choosing Dalmatian Fire Equipment

0.00 0.00T
5 YEAR WARRANTY - Equipment provided by Dalmatian Fire
Equipment comes with a limited five year warranty unless otherwise noted. Dalmatian Fire Equipment offers one free visual inspection and function test per SCBA before 24 months(shipping and battery charges will apply) and one free hydrostatic test per cylinder before 60 months. A visual inspection and function test is required every 24 months to keep the SCBA warranty in effect for the duration of the warranty period.

See the full agreement at https://dalmatianfire.com/warranty/

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11.11 QUOTE
Date
8/19/2025
Quote #
22589
Name / Address
Santa Cruz FD
Kimberlee Steele
230 Walnut Ave.

Santa Cruz, Ca 95060
US
Ship To
Santa Cruz FD
Kimberlee Steele
230 Walnut Ave.

Santa Cruz, CA 95060
USA
Terms
Net 30
Sales Rep
BSC
Quote Requsted By Estimated Ship Time
QUOTE GOOD FOR 30 DAYS. Total
Customer Phone 831-420-5280 Customer Fax
Dalmatian Fire Equipment, LLC
75 Oak Avenue
Eaton, CO 80615
Phone: 800-436-6450
Fax: 888-436-6451
[email protected]
www.DalmatianFire.com
This Order Confirmation must be signed and returned within 30 days to be valid. If you have any question, please call or email: [email protected] Disclaimer: By signing this agreement, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to all the terms and conditions outlined in the following documents: https://dalmatianfire.com/terms-and-conditions/ U.S.A. CANADA
Dalmatian® Fire Equipment, LLC. is the leading supplier of pre-owned Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and cylinders in North America, dedicated to quality, safety, and expert testing. We offer a large inventory of refurbished fire and breathing equipment, committed to providing the air you need at a price you can afford. Thank you for choosing Dalmatian® Fire Equipment Description Qty Cost Total
By signing below, I confirm that I am authorized to act on behalf of the customer named above and agree to purchase the products listed from Dalmatian Fire Equipment. I verify that all specifications, sizes, and quantities have been reviewed and are accurate. By signing this agreement, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and accepted the terms and conditions outlined at
https://dalmatianfire.com/terms-and-conditions/.

I understand that this order can be canceled before shipment by contacting Dalmatian Fire Equipment during regular business hours.

If the order is canceled after shipment, I agree to pay all return shipment fees and associated costs.

Signed:_______________________________________
PRINT NAME:_______________________________________
Please transmit this signed confirmation to Dalmatian Fire Equipment, LLC. by scan and e-mail the signed authorization to [email protected]. Fax at 888-436-6451 OR 970-454-9701.

0.00 0.00T

0.00

Page 3 ends

USD 18,388.62

11.12 Wildland Fighting Tools
Item Qty Unit Price Total
Stihl MS 362 Saw 1 $959.00 $959.00
Stihl MS 261 Saw 2 $729.00 $1,458.00
Chainsaw Chaps 2 $100.00 $200.00
Saw Rehab Kit 1 $250.00 $250.00
Felling Axe 1 $112.00 $112.00
Pulaski Axe 2 $80.00 $160.00
McLeod Fire Tool 2 $120.00 $240.00
Rouge Hoe 3 $75.00 $225.00
Drip Torch 2 $190.00 $380.00
Subtotal: $3,984.00
Sales Tax (9.75%): $388.44
Total: $4,372.44

11.13 P:\FNPU\Intranet Files\Purchase Orders Revised August 2021 PO Doc# :

Vendor’s Name:

Item/Service being purchased:

One-of-a-kind The commodity or service has no competitive product (one-of-a-kind) AND IS ONLY AVAILABLE FROM ONE VENDOR.

Software
Maintenance
The only vendor that can provide maintenance for this software program is the company that developed the software.

No Substitute
A component or replacement part has no substitute AND CAN BE OBTAINED FROM ONLY ONE VENDOR.

Compatibility Compatibility is the overriding consideration AND THE ITEM/SERVICE CAN BE OBTAINED FROM ONLY ONE VENDOR.

Delivery Date The ability of ONLY ONE VENDOR to meet a necessary delivery date.

Follow-up Service ONLY ONE VENDOR is able to make on-call repairs at a particular location.

Prior PO#(‘s) required:

Emergency Urgent need for the item or service does not permit soliciting competitive bids, as in cases of emergencies, disaster, etc.

Monopoly A monopoly exists, as in the case of the U.S. Post Office, PG&E, the Santa Cruz Sentinel, the League of California Cities, the County of Santa Cruz, etc.

Explain why this vendor is the only one able to provide the service/good.

Completed by: Department:

Sole Source Vendor
Justification
Attach to all draft/PO’s for sole source purchases $10,000 to $99,999 Policy
For purchases between $10,000 and $99,999, a minimum of three quotes is normally required. On occasion, a purchase in this informal range can be made only through one vendor in which case it becomes a “sole source” purchase. In this instance, the Purchasing Division must have justification for bypassing the normal competitive process. To qualify as a “sole source” purchase one of the above criteria must be met.

11.14 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/25/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Finance
SUBJECT: Liability Claims Filed Against the City of Santa Cruz (FN) RECOMMENDATION: Motion to reject the liability claims of 1) Kathryn Capaldo, and 2) Gabrielle Dekock, based on staff recommendation.

BACKGROUND: N/A
DISCUSSION: I. Claims to be rejected:

1. Claimant: Kathryn Capaldo
Date of occurrence: 8/14/2024
Date of claim: 9/30/2024
Amount of claim: Unspecified
Claimant seeks reimbursement for damages allegedly resulting from a water main break.

Represented by Legal Counsel

2. Claimant: Gabrielle Dekock
Date of occurrence: 8/14/2024
Date of claim: 9/30/2024
Amount of claim: Unspecified
Claimant seeks reimbursement for damages allegedly resulting from a water main break.

Represented by Legal Counsel
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: N/A HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): N/A

12.1 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: No fiscal impact.

Prepared By:

Ross Brandon
Risk & Safety Manager
Submitted By:

Elizabeth Cabell
Finance Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

None.

12.2 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/18/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Memorial Request Honoring Former Mayor Mike Rotkin (PR) LOCATION: District 3
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve the installation of a memorial plaque at West Cliff above “Its Beach” in honor of Former Mayor Mike Rotkin.

BACKGROUND: In July 2025, Madelyn McCaul, on behalf of her family and fellow Santa Cruz community members, submitted a written request (Memorial Request Letter.PDF) to the Director of Parks and Recreation with a request to install a memorial plaque along West Cliff pedestrian pathway in honor of Former Mayor Mike Rotkin.

The City of Santa Cruz’s (City) City Council Policy 7.3 (Council Policy 7.3.PDF), otherwise known by its policy title “Designation of Memorial Plaques on City Property” establishes criteria and procedures for the Parks and Recreation Department (Department), the Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission), and the City Council (Council) to consider dedicating and placing memorials for community members that have contributed significantly to the public good of the City. In accordance with Policy 7.3, Ms. McCaul wrote to the Director with a formal request for consideration of placing a memorial plaque in honor of Former Mayor Mike Rotkin.

DISCUSSION: Mr. Rotkin was a Santa Cruz resident for approximately 60 years and served six terms on the City Council from 1979 to 2010. During his time on City Council, Mr. Rotkin served five (5) one-year terms as Mayor.

Mr. Rotkin was a prominent figure in Santa Cruz known for his extensive service and impact on the community (Excerpts from the Santa Cruz Sentinel. PDF). He was a lifelong educator, directing the Community Studies Field Program at UC Santa Cruz from 1979 to 2011, and a committed union leader within the UC-AFT union representing lecturers and librarians. Mr.

Rotkin's dedication to his principles was evident in his outspoken nature, rooted in the anti-war, pro-labor, and pro-rent control movements of the 1960s and 1970s. His analytical and straightforward manner often sparked pointed comments, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his values.

13.1 After receiving public input, the Commission, at their August 11, 2025, regular meeting considered the matter, voting in favor that Council adopt a motion recognizing a memorial for Mr. Rotkin (6-0) with one absence.

Specific criteria of Council Policy 7.3 include the following language relevant to this specific request:

A. Permanent statues, monuments, plaques, or other memorials may be erected, placed or installed on City property to honor:
(1) Persons or groups that have a long-standing association with the facility or community.
(2) Persons or groups for which a facility has been named. (3) A historical event of significance to the facility or community. (4) A person, family, or organization which has contributed significantly to the facility or community.
(5) A person or group which has achieved significant recognition historically on the city, state, national or international level; or
(6) A person or group which has made a significant contribution to the City by:
a. Enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the City b. Contributing to the historical or cultural preservation of the City c. Contributing toward the acquisition, development or conveyance of land or building
d. Making exemplary or meritorious contributions to the City B. Any person for whom a memorial is erected or installed must have been deceased for at least one (1) year and have been a resident of the City.

Additionally, the Commission heard public comments concerning Mr. Rotkin’s contributions to the community. Mr. Rotkin's personal life was equally vibrant, marked by his 36-year marriage to Madelyn McCaul. Together, they entertained local seniors with private performances, where Mr. Rotkin's impressions of Hank Williams and Buddy Holly, as well as his rendition of John Denver's "Annie's Song," were particularly moving. His genuine love for people and his big heart were highlighted by those who knew him, including State Senator John Laird, who admired Mr. Rotkin's consistency in doing what he believed was right.

Even after his tenure on the Santa Cruz City Council ended in 2010, Mr. Rotkin continued to serve the community through his involvement in transportation issues. As a long-time member of the Santa Cruz Metro Board and a commissioner on the County Regional Transportation Commission, he engaged in respectful and clear discussions, even when there were disagreements. Former Supervisor Bruce McPherson, despite their differing views on local passenger rail service, respected Mr. Rotkin's contributions and admired his steadfast presence in Santa Cruz's political scene.

Based on the criteria from Council Policy 7.3 and considering Mr. Rotkin’s longstanding service to the public good, staff recommends that a memorial designated to honor Former Mayor Mike Rotkin be placed in a prominent location for the community to reflect and remember his legacy.

Specifically, this recommendation meets the following criteria outlined in City Council Policy

7.3:

1. The person has a longstanding affiliation with the City.

13.2 2. The person has made a significant contribution to the City by:
a. Enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the City; and b. Making exemplary or meritorious contributions to the City Staff recommends approval of a memorial plaque honoring Mr. Rotkin’s legacy to be located along the West Cliff pedestrian pathway above “Its Beach.” If approved, the memorial plaque will be funded by the family of Mr. Rotkin and coordinated with Parks. The landscape bed will continue to be maintained by Parks.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: Not applicable.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): Mr. Rotkin was a longtime champion for both raising awareness of social disparities and taking action on the positively promoting the social determinants of health by championing access to educational, economic, political, and work opportunities for those historically marginalized people. Mr. Rotkin’s work in this sphere underscores positive resolution to the pillar of equity in Health in all Policies.

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: None.

Prepared By:

Tremain Hedden-Jones
Superintendent of Recreation
Submitted By:

Tony Elliot
Director of Parks &
Recreation
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. EXCERPTS FROM THE SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL DATED JUNE 21.DOCX

2. COUNCIL POLICY 7.3 (DESIGNATION OF MEMORIALS ON PUBLIC PROPERTY).PDF

3. MEMORIAL REQUEST LETTER - MIKE ROTKIN - 08112025.PDF

13.3 Excerpts from the Santa Cruz Sentinel dated June 21, 2015 Author: PK Hattis
“Remembering Mike Rotkin: A Santa Cruz Political Figure of Historic Proportions,” provided the following story of Mr. Rotkin’s service and impact in Santa Cruz:
“Rotkin was also a lifelong educator and committed union man. He directed the Community Studies Field Program at UC Santa Cruz from 1979 to 2011, has lectured at the university for decades and served as a leader within the UC-AFT union that represents lecturers and librarians.

But it wasn’t just Rotkin’s endurance that attracted notice from those who observed him up close. A self-avowed socialist feminist with roots in the anti-war, pro-labor, pro-rent control movements of the 1960s and 1970s, Rotkin was never shy about speaking his mind to the public, his colleagues or the press. A brief peruse through the Sentinel’s archive illustrates Rotkin’s analytical and matter-of-fact way of speaking, though it occasionally provoked a pointed comment — from Rotkin himself or from others — that might have gone viral in the current online era.
‘Mike always did what he thought was right,’ said state Sen. John Laird, who served alongside Rotkin on the Santa Cruz City Council in the 1980s. ‘He always believed it was consistent with his long-term values…’
Rotkin’s wife of 36 years Madelyn McCaul said the two of them would often entertain local seniors with private performances, with her husband delivering spot-on Hank Williams and Buddy Holly impressions, along with a rendition of John Denver’s ‘Annie’s Song’ that often moved the audience to tears.
‘The guy had a big heart,’ said Stephens. ‘He loved people in a genuine way.’ But Rotkin’s service didn’t stop when he termed-out at the council in 2010. Much of Rotkin’s focus shifted to transportation issues as a decades-long member of the Santa Cruz Metro board and a commissioner on the county Regional Transportation Commission.

Former Supervisor Bruce McPherson, who sat beside Rotkin for years on the board at both agencies, said his skepticism of the viability of a local passenger rail service often led to public disagreements with Rotkin on the commission, but he always engaged with respect and clarity. ‘We need more of that today,’ said McPherson, who was a registered Republican during his time serving in Sacramento. ‘He was a real staple in the political scene of Santa Cruz County, and I have a great deal of respect and admiration for him.’”

13.4 COUNCIL POLICY 7.3
POLICY TITLE: MEMORIALS ON CITY PROPERTY
POLICY STATEMENT:

The purpose of this article is to establish guidelines and procedures to be used when statues, monuments, plaques, or other memorials are erected or installed on City property in remembrance of a person or persons or historical event.

A. Permanent statues, monuments, plaques, or other memorials may be erected, placed or installed on City property to honor:
(1) Persons or groups that have a long standing association with the facility or community;
(2) Persons or groups for which a facility has been named; (3) A historical event of significance to the facility or community; (4) A person, family, or organization which has contributed significantly to the facility or community;
(5) A person or group which has achieved significant recognition historically on the city, state, national or international level; or (6) A person or group which has made a significant contribution to the City by:
a. Enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the City b. Contributing to the historical or cultural preservation of the City c. Contributing toward the acquisition, development or conveyance of land or building
d. Making exemplary or meritorious contributions to the City B. Any person for whom a memorial is erected or installed must have been deceased at least one (1) year, and have been a resident of the City Santa Cruz.

PROCEDURE:

Each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicant(s) shall submit a written request to the corresponding Department Director, with justification to aid in considering the proposal. The proposal shall be placed on the appropriate Advisory Body agenda (if required), allowing appropriate time for review by the Advisory Body, and to publicize and receive input from the public at the Advisory Body meeting. The Advisory Body’s recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final determination.

AUTHORIZATION:

Motion: October 28, 2008

13.5 13.6
City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/20/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Appointment of Two (2) Ex Officio Members to the Sister Cities Committee (PR)
LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve limited term appointments of two (2) ex officio members to serve on the Sister Cities Committee.

BACKGROUND: At their March 15, 2025 retreat, the Sister Cities Committee (Committee) discussed the current workload of the various subcommittees and the need for addressing future capacity concerns. In particular, the Shingu, Japan and Biarritz, France subcommittees have seen a return to pre- pandemic levels of activity with recurring reciprocal youth exchanges annually.

The Sestri Levante, Italy subcommittee has also observed increased participation in the annual Hans Christian Andersen writing contest, as well as engagement with program partners in Sestri that wish to reconvene in-person exchanges.

DISCUSSION: The Committee bylaws allow for the approval and appointment of ex officio members to the primary body if the Committee finds that, because of the complexity of its work, it is desirable to add members at-large to the body to serve as non-voting ex-officio members to lend other opinions or expertise to the work of the body.

Additionally, at their regular meeting on May 12, 2025, the Committee voted (7-0) to recommend City Council appoint the following applicants as ex officio members of the Committee (APPLICATIONS):

1. Enda Brennan

2. Ana Maria Treadwell
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: Not applicable.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The appointment of additional ex officio members impacts Health in all Policies by increasing access and capacity of the sister cities program.

Specifically, the workplan of the Committee includes outreach to historically marginalized

14.1 communities to participate in the program and promotes peace through people-to-people connections.

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: None.

Prepared By:

Tremain Hedden-Jones
Superintendent of Recreation
Submitted By:

Tony Elliot
Director of Parks &
Recreation
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. ENDA BRENNAN SISTER CITIES APPLICATION.PDF

2. ANA MARIA TREADWELL SISTER CITIES APPLICATION.PDF

14.2 14.3

14.4 14.5

14.6 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/20/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Wildfire Prevention Grant – Budget Adjustment (PR) LOCATION: District 1
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Authorize the Parks and Recreation and Fire Departments to apply for CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention grant funds for the Santa Cruz Regional 911 Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) – Wildfire Risk Reduction Project (g3026XX) and, if awarded:
2) Adopt a resolution amending the FY 2026 revenue and expenditure budget in the amount of $315,819 for project g3026XX;
3) Appropriate awarded funds into the above referenced project; and 4) Direct the City Manager or his designee to negotiate, execute, enter into, and deliver any necessary contracts, agreements, documents and amendments required to implement the project, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney.

BACKGROUND: The Santa Cruz Regional 911 Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) – Wildfire Risk Reduction Project is a joint initiative between the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation and Fire Departments.

The project is designed to reduce hazardous fuels in the wildland–urban interface (WUI), safeguard critical infrastructure that provides essential public services, protect nearby homes and communities, and improve emergency access routes.

The project will take place in the DeLaveaga Park Wilderness area, extending from Brookwood Drive on the south to Upper Park Road on the north, and from the Park Way fire access road across the southern boundary up to the southern edge of the DeLaveaga Golf Course. Within this area are multiple facilities essential to community safety and resilience, including the Santa Cruz Regional 911 (Netcom) and Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which serve over 330,000 residents across Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties. The project area also includes two 1- million-gallon City of Santa Cruz water tanks and pump station, the City Armory which provides

15.1 shelter for unhoused residents, and a community arts facility. Approximately 240 homes are located within 300 feet of the project boundary.

The project will implement 26.6 acres of vegetation management, including 15.4 acres of roadside fuel breaks and 11.2 acres of general treatments through mechanized clearing, manual chipping or mastication, and lop-and-scatter methods. Treatments are designed to reduce fuel continuity, establish defensible space, and create safe ingress and egress for emergency response.

Work will be conducted under Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-25-25 and an associated State Environmental Protection Plan (EPP), with professional forestry oversight.

The proposed project timeline is commencement on July 1, 2026, with a target completion date of October 15, 2027. This schedule aligns with seasonal restrictions and operational requirements under the Governor’s Suspension order.

The project also builds on previous vegetation management efforts in DeLaveaga Park, expanding treatment areas to strengthen wildfire resilience around critical City infrastructure and adjacent neighborhoods.

DISCUSSION: The proposed grant project area is located in the WUI, where wildland areas directly border dense residential development. This creates elevated wildfire risk for surrounding communities and critical City facilities. Within or adjacent to the project boundary are essential public safety and service facilities, including Netcom and the EOC, two City water tanks, a housing shelter for unhoused populations, and a community arts facility. These sites, combined with approximately 240 nearby homes, underscore the urgency of reducing wildfire risk in this location.

To fund this work, the City is requesting $265,819 in CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention grant funds, supported by $50,000 in matching funds from the Parks and Recreation Park Tax Fund.

Grant funds will be used for vegetation management on 26.6 acres, contractor costs for manual and mechanical treatments, roadside fuel break construction, environmental compliance (botanical and archaeological surveys, Registered Professional Forester supervision), community outreach, and project management. Costs are consistent with similar wildfire prevention projects in the Santa Cruz Mountains and reflect prevailing rates and anticipated wage adjustments in 2026.

The project will reduce hazardous fuels, expand defensible space, and improve emergency access along key fire roads. Roadside fuel breaks will provide clearance for fire apparatus and evacuation, while general treatments will reduce fuel loading and fire intensity near structures and infrastructure. The project is further supported by a robust public outreach plan that includes community meetings, project signage, press releases, and a dedicated project page.

This project is identified as the City’s number one priority in the forthcoming Wildfire Resiliency Plan and aligns with existing City frameworks, including the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2030 and the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.

The Parks and Recreation and Fire Departments are committed to long-term maintenance, with treatments integrated into ongoing operations on a 5–10-year cycle. Together, these efforts ensure that the project will have lasting benefits by protecting critical infrastructure, strengthening community safety, and enhancing the City’s wildfire resilience.

15.2 For these reasons, staff from the Parks and Recreation and Fire Departments recommend that City Council authorize the application for CAL FIRE grant funding to support the Santa Cruz Regional 911 Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) – Wildfire Risk Reduction Project, and if successful, appropriate grant funds into the designated project.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION:

CEQA compliance for the Santa Cruz Regional 911 Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) – Wildfire Risk Reduction Project has already been achieved through the issuance of a permit under Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-25-25 on June 4, 2025 (Approved Project No.:

C736840E-9CDA-417E-8A8C-8A22902BCE8C – Santa Cruz County 911 Regional Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) – Wildfire Risk Reduction Project). All project activities will be carried out in accordance with the associated State Environmental Protection Plan (EPP).

Prior to implementation, appropriate environmental protection measures will be conducted, including site verification and monitoring, to ensure sensitive resources are avoided and impacts are minimized. These measures will remain in place throughout project operations to ensure compliance with the permit and consistency with state environmental standards.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): This project supports the City of Santa Cruz Health in All Policies (HIAP) framework by reducing wildfire risk to homes, critical infrastructure, and community services. It protects vulnerable populations served by the City Armory, improves public safety and emergency access, and helps prevent the harmful health impacts of wildfire smoke. By safeguarding open space and essential services, the project promotes safer, healthier, and more resilient neighborhoods.

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: If successful, the total grant budget of $315,819 will augment and/or offset General Fund resources currently being deployed by both departments to reduce wildfire risks and improve public health and safety within the City of Santa Cruz.

Prepared By:

Mike Godsy
Parks Superintendent
Submitted By:

Tony Elliot
Parks and Recreation Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. PROJECT AREA MAP.PDF

2. BUDGET ADJUSTMENT.PDF

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DeLaveaga
Tank Site
Armory
EOC
Netcom
Upper Park Road
Old Vineyard Trail
Delaveaga Park Drive
Brookwood
Drive
Branciforte Drive
DeLaveaga Park
Roads
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Class III
Watercourses
Assessor Parcels
Ignitions
(2019-2024)
Infrastructure
Netcom & EOC
Armory Shelter
Water Tank Site
Project Area
Project Boundary
Mechanical: 3.9
acres
Manual: 5.9 acres
Manual Lop and
Scatter: 1.4 acres
Fuel Break: 15.4
acres
Santa Cruz Regional 911 Emergency Operations Center (Netcom) -Wildfire Risk Reduction Project City of Santa Cruz - Project Tracking Number: 25-WP-CZU-79517729 0 0.05 Miles 0.1
Scale 1:9,000 ¯
San Mateo
Santa Cruz Unit
Santa Cruz
County
City of Santa
Cruz 15.4
City of Santa Cruz

BUDGET ADJUSTMENT REQUEST
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2026
08/22/2025
Staff are requesting City Council approval to apply for, and if successful, appropriate $265,819.20 in CAL FIRE Wildfire Prevention grant funds, supported by $50,000 in matching funds from the Parks and Recreation Park Tax Fund. Grant funds will be used for vegetation management on 26.6 acres, contractor costs for manual and mechanical treatments, roadside fuel break construction, environmental compliance (botanical and archaeological surveys, Registered Professional Forester supervision), community outreach, and project management.
101-00-00-0000-49109 g3026XX-908-0-0 From Parks and Rec. Facilities Tax Fund 50,000 101-30-41-3120-43210 g3026XX-216-2266-0 State operating grants and contributions 265,819 315,819
101-30-41-3120-52153 g3026XX-100-2020-0 Program services - grants 315,819 249-00-00-0000-59101 To General Fund 50,000
365,819
-50,000
Lindsay
Bass
Digitally signed
by Lindsay Bass
Date: 2025.08.22
10:49:14 -07'00'
Anthony Elliot
Digitally signed
by Anthony Elliot
Date: 2025.08.25
10:55:26 -07'00'
Digitally signed
by Emily Burton
Date: 2025.08.25
'12:11:59 -07'00
Elizabet
h Cabell
Digitally signed by
Elizabeth Cabell
Date: 2025.08.25
12:18:55 -07'00' 15.5
City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/20/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Measure Q Expenditure Plan and Status Update (PR) LOCATION: Citywide
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve and adopt the proposed expenditure plan for City of Santa Cruz Measure Q allocation.

BACKGROUND: Approved by Santa Cruz County voters in November 2024, the Santa Cruz County Safe Drinking Water, Clean Beaches, Wildfire Risk Reduction, and Wildlife Protection Initiative (Measure Q) is a local effort aimed at protecting and enhancing the county’s natural resources. This initiative prioritizes water quality, wildfire prevention, habitat restoration, and the creation of resilient ecosystems to ensure the health and well-being of our county’s environment and its residents (www.santacruzcountyca.gov/measureQ) Measure Q is funded through an annual parcel tax of $87 and is expected to generate more than $7 million annually. These funds will support projects, including:
 Water Conservation and Quality: Protecting and replenishing local water supplies by enhancing watershed health, reducing erosion, and safeguarding rivers, creeks, and groundwater resources.
 Wildfire Risk Reduction: Preventing catastrophic wildfires by developing shaded fuel breaks, managing forests to reduce dangerous fuel loads, and maintaining defensible spaces around communities.
 Wildlife and Habitat Protection: Preserving biodiversity by restoring critical habitats, protecting wildlife corridors, and conserving coastal and forest ecosystems.  Clean Beaches and Coastal Protection: Keeping beaches free from pollution, enhancing public access, and protecting marine life from environmental threats.  Community Resilience: Supporting projects that reduce climate risks, improve recreational opportunities, and provide equitable access to parks, trails, and open spaces.

Measure Q funding prioritization focuses on:
 Leveraging Additional Resources: Projects that can attract matching funds from state, federal, or private grants which amplify the impact of local investments.  Equity and Accessibility: Special consideration is given to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities or provide equitable access to natural spaces.

16.1  Multiple Benefits and Climate Resilience: Projects that address overlapping challenges, such as reducing climate risks while improving water quality or public access, are prioritized to deliver comprehensive solutions.
 Geographic and Ecological Need: Funding is allocated to areas with acute environmental challenges, such as wildfire-prone forests or flood-prone watersheds, to address urgent needs and mitigate risks.

A Citizens Oversight Advisory Board (COAB) was created for transparency and accountability of the management of Measure Q funding and oversight. The COAB engages with the community, helps develop Vision Plans to guide awards and provides annual reporting to the Board of Supervisors. All meetings are open to the public.

Of the nine subject-matter experts on the COAB, five are appointed by the County’s Board of Supervisors and one by each city in the County. The City of Santa Cruz’s (City) representative on the COAB is Rachel Dann who also serves as the Chair. The COAB meets no less than quarterly. Members of the public are welcome to attend and provide input.

This COAB is responsible for the following tasks and duties:
 Conducting public hearings and gathering input on funding priorities.  Reviewing annual reports from agencies and organizations funded by Measure Q.  Supporting the development of and approving the Vision Plan every five years to guide investments based on current needs and best practices.

On August 11, 2025 the Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed and approved the Measure Q Draft Expenditure Plan with a request that staff provide greater detail on how the proposed new staff would contribute to Measure Q priorities. This detail is included in the Best Management and Operations Plan (Measure Q 3-year BMOP.pdf).

DISCUSSION: The City will receive approximately $546,000 per year through the Measure Q per capita allocation. The Parks and Recreation Department has led the City’sefforts to develop an expenditure plan in accordance with the goals and objectives set forth by Measure Q (Measure Q 3-year BMOP.pdf). In addition to Parks and Recreation, City departments including the Water Dept., Fire Dept., City Manager, and others have been included in developing ideas on how to optimize the $546,000 in annual funding from Measure Q.

City staff propose that the funds be allocated to open spaces and, specifically, to wildfire prevention, vegetation management, forestry, and watershed protection (Open Space Measure Q Visual.pdf). The anticipated per capita funding is not sufficient to sustain numerous new personnel for Parks and Recreation. However, the funding could be utilized to hire one staff person to be dedicated to forestry management (i.e. an Assistant Urban Forester) and one staff person to support Open Space Management. The balance of the funding would be used to augment the Parks Division’s work in vegetation management and the City’s broader efforts to implement and act upon the 5-Year Wildfire Resiliency Plan.

If the draft expenditure plan receives City Council approval, the COAB will review it for final approval. Upon receiving all approvals, staff will return with a resolution to adjust the FY2026 budget to incorporate Measure Q funds. These funds will then be used to improve open spaces

16.2 within the City, with a focus on wildfire prevention, vegetation management, forestry, and watershed protection.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The adoption of the proposed expenditure plan does not constitute a “project” under CEQA. The action is limited to financial planning and does not cause a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change to the environment. Therefore, no further environmental review under CEQA is required for the adoption of the plan. Environmental review for any potential projects undertaken with funding allocated by the plan with be conducted at the time those individual projects are formally proposed and authorized.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): Measure Q funding will advance the sustainability pillar of Health in All Polices. By improving the safety of our open spaces through wildfire prevention, vegetation management, forestry, and watershed protection, the City will be providing a sustainable resource accessible to the entire community.

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: Yes FISCAL IMPACT DESCRIPTION: It is anticipated that the City will receive approximately $546,000 per year through Measure Q per capita funds. Additional funding may be available through the Measure Q grant program.

Prepared and Submitted By:

Tony Elliot
Parks and Recreation Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. MEASURE Q 3-YEAR BEST MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS PLAN.PDF

2. OPEN SPACE MEASURE Q VISUAL.PDF

16.3 3-Year Best Management & Operations Plan
Open Space and Urban Forestry (Aligned with Measure Q Funding Priorities) Year 1 – Build Capacity & Establish Baselines
• Urban Forestry
o Hire Assistant Urban Forester to lead tree inventory, equity-based planting, stormwater management, and wildfire vegetation projects.
o Launch equity-focused tree planting initiative and begin shaded fuel break development (5–10 acres).
o Establish baseline tree canopy inventory and mapping system. • Open Space
o Hire 1 Park Maintenance staff to expand operational capacity. o Prioritize invasive species removal, erosion control, and trail repairs following winter storm impacts.
o Conduct condition assessment of ~5 miles of trails and surrounding open space lands. • Monitoring & Reporting
o Initiate annual Measure Q progress report.
o Establish baseline data: canopy coverage, trail condition ratings, acres of invasive species cover.

Year 2 – Expand Programs & Strengthen Resilience
• Urban Forestry
o Plant 300–400 climate-adapted trees in priority neighborhoods. o Install bioswales and tree wells in medians and rights-of-way to improve stormwater retention.
o Expand shaded fuel breaks and defensible space projects to 15–20 acres. • Open Space
o Continue invasive species removal and targeted habitat restoration in high-priority sites. o Resurface or repair ~2 miles of trails; improve erosion control and drainage features. o Expand volunteer programming (Adopt-a-Park, CityServe, conservation corps partnerships).
• Monitoring & Reporting
o Report annual progress on canopy gains, shaded fuel break acreage, trail miles maintained, and habitat restored.
o Track volunteer hours and participation levels.
o Document stormwater/erosion benefits of green infrastructure projects.

Year 3 – Optimize & Sustain
• Urban Forestry
o Reach 1,000 cumulative trees planted and maintained, with canopy gains documented. o Complete 30+ acres of shaded fuel breaks and defensible space across open space lands. o Expand equity-based planting program across all identified priority neighborhoods.

16.4 3-Year Best Management & Operations Plan
Open Space and Urban Forestry (Aligned with Measure Q Funding Priorities) • Open Space
o Complete full inspection and maintenance cycle for ~5 miles of trails. o Achieve measurable habitat restoration outcomes (20+ acres restored; significant invasive cover reduction).
o Formalize ongoing monitoring protocols for erosion control, biodiversity, and habitat health.
• Monitoring & Reporting
o Publish 3-year cumulative progress report to Council and Measure Q Oversight Board. o Document leveraged funding, cost savings, and community engagement outcomes. o Establish next-phase priorities based on monitoring data and community needs.

Performance Metrics (Tracked & Reported Annually)
• Urban Forestry
o Trees planted and maintained.
o Percent canopy coverage increase in priority areas.
o Acres of shaded fuel breaks/defensible space created. o Green infrastructure installed (bioswales, tree wells). • Open Space
o Miles of trails maintained (5-mile system).
o Acres of habitat restored and invasive species removed. o Erosion control improvements completed.
o Volunteer participation (hours, events, projects).

Summary:

This 3-Year Plan emphasizes urban forestry and open space management scaled to Santa Cruz’s system: 5 miles of trails and adjacent open spaces. The phased approach builds capacity in Year 1, expands program delivery in Year 2, and sustains outcomes in Year 3. Built-in monitoring and reporting ensure accountability and measurable progress on wildfire resilience, water quality, erosion control, habitat restoration, equitable canopy growth, and expanded community stewardship.

16.5 CITY OF SANTA CRUZ

OPEN SPACE PROGRAM
PogonipDelaveaga WildernessMoore CreekArroyo Seco CanyonArana GulchNeary LagoonJesse St Marsh CalFire Forest Health Grant
Contracted Biologist
Staff
SupervisorSr PMWPMWMWA
Wildfire Resiliency
OGALS Grant
FEMA Emergency Funds
Santa Cruz Mountain Trail Stewardship CalFire Prison Crews Arana Gulch Management Working Group
Contracted Ranchers
California Conservation Corp Adopt-a-Park Agreements
Contracted Encampment Remediation
Contracted Firebreak Mowing
Summer Youth Trails Program
Permits Management
CityServe
CFSCC Grant
Fundamental Voids
Inability to protect critical habitats and resourcesInability to maintain and improve fire roads,trails, and visitor facilitiesInability to enforce basic parks ruls & regulationsInability to reduce fuel ladders along privatepropertyInability to brush trails for public accessInability to provide interpretation for the publicInability to control invasive speciesInability to tag illegal encampments for removalInability to provide trail monitoring/patrolInability to provide first aid presence made for free at coggle.it

16.6 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/21/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
SUBJECT: Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project (c401413) – Notice of Completion (PW)
LOCATION: Districts 3 and 4
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to accept the work of Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. (Santa Clara, CA) as completed per plans and specifications and authorize the filing of the Notice of Completion for the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project (c401413).

BACKGROUND: The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project (Project) (c401413) is a 0.8-mile-long paved bicycle and pedestrian path between the intersections of Bay Street at California Street and Pacific Avenue at Beach Street. The Project extends the Coastal Rail Trail Segment 7 Phase 1, which serves over 800 active transportation users per day with a 12-16-foot-wide paved trail on the coastal side of the railway.

At its January 26, 2021, meeting, City Council approved the plans and specifications for the Project, and authorized staff to advertise for bids and directed the City Manager to execute the contract in a form approved by the City Attorney. On April 21, 2022, the project was awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. (Santa Clara, CA) in the amount of $11,395,666.80 (including 5% contingency).

DISCUSSION: The Rail Trail Segment 7 Phase 2 Project consisted of constructing a 0.8-mile long, 12-foot-wide bicycle and pedestrian trail, with a smooth wire fence separating the trail from the rail line, from the California Avenue/Bay Street intersection to Pacific Avenue/Beach Street roundabout area along the railroad tracks. Other improvements included the installation of streetlights and wayfinding signs.

Project construction was inspected by the Construction Manager, WSP, Inc. and City of Santa Cruz (City) staff and was found to be completed in accordance with the plans and specifications.

Staff recommend accepting the work of Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. and authorizing the filing of the Notice of Completion for the Project. During construction, the Project experienced several changes related to differing site conditions (drainage and retaining wall types), and extreme weather events that were ultimately declared federal disasters. Taken

17.1 together these changes resulted in several change orders that brought the final cost to complete construction to $13,843,285.73.

Together Phase I and Phase II create 2.1 miles of the Coastal Rail Trail spine between Natural Bridges Drive and Pacific Avenue at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf. The two-phase trail serves over 30,000 residents, who live within one mile of the project, to access, in a safer transportation mode, schools, work, beaches, shopping, and other activity centers.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: On April 19, 2019, the Planning Commission approved the Mitigated Negative Declaration, Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, Coastal Permit, Design Permit and Slope Modification/Variance and Heritage Tree Removal Permit for the Rail Trail Segment 7 Phase 2 project. A Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) was adopted for the project on June 11, 2019, and a Notice of Determination was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Cruz County on June 13, 2019.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project promotes all three HiAP pillars, Sustainability, Public Health, and Equity.

Specifically, the Project addresses following HiAP Conditions:

Health and Wellness - The Project promotes behaviors that maintain or improve health by providing a new venue to promote the use of “active living” transportation modes, such as walking and biking, and decreasing single-occupancy vehicle trips. Also, the General Plan calls for a “citywide interconnected system of safe, inviting, and accessible pedestrian ways and bikeways” (Goal M4).

Healthy Environments – The Project promotes reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, which will be achieved largely by providing safe paths for low-carbon transportation options as an alternative to single-occupancy vehicle trips.

This project also supports the HiAP Equity pillar by improving and expanding mobility and access options throughout the project area.

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 Rail Trail Segment 7 Phase 2 project was completed with a total cost of $13,843,285.73. The project was funded by an Active Transportation Program Cycle 5 grant, Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program grant, and City and RTC Measure D funds. There is no impact to the General Fund.

Prepared By:

Ricardo Valdes
Senior Professional Engineer
Submitted By:

Nathan Nguyen, P.E.

Director of Public Works
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager

17.2 ATTACHMENTS:

1. NOTICE OF COMPLETION.DOCX

17.3 Notice of Completion (Revised Oct 2021)
(Space above for Recorder’s use only)
This instrument is being recorded for the benefit of the City of Santa Cruz.

No recording fee is required pursuant to Government Code § 27383.

NOTICE OF COMPLETION
(CA Civil Code Sections 8102 and 9204)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT:

The undersigned is an authorized representative of the owner of the interest or estate stated below.

1. The Owner’s Name and Address. The Project owner is the City of Santa Cruz, a municipal corporation (the “City”). The City’s mailing address is 809 Center Street, Santa Cruz, California 95060. The City of Santa Cruz has the following interest in the subject Property described below:

City Right-Of-Way

2. Project Title and Number. The full name of the work of improvement/public works project (the “Project”) which is the subject of this Notice of Completion is: Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) Segment 7 Phase 2 Project (c401413)

3. Nature of Work Performed on the Property or Materials Furnished for the City. The Project consisted of work described as: Construction of a 0.8-mile long, 12-foot-wide bicycle and pedestrian trail, with a smooth wire fence separating the trail from the rail line, from California Ave./Bay St. intersection to Pacific Ave/Beach St. roundabout area. Other improvements included the installation of streetlights and wayfinding signs.

4. The general site location description or address (the “Property”) of the public improvement is located at: starting from the California Ave./Bay St. intersection to Pacific Ave/Beach St. roundabout area along the railroad tracks.

1. Name and Address of Contractor. The Contractor on the Project is: Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. 1370 Norman Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95054.

2. Date of Completion. The Project on the Property was completed on: May 9, 2025

3. The filing of this Notice of Completion was authorized by the Santa Cruz City Council Minute Order on Tuesday, September 9, 2025
RECORDED AT THE REQUEST OF:

City of Santa Cruz, Public Works
Attn: Ricardo Valdes
WHEN RECORDED MAIL TO:

City Clerk’s Department
809 Center Street, Room 9
Santa Cruz, CA 95060

17.4 Notice of Completion (Revised Oct 2021)
DATE: ___________________
Nathan Nguyen
Director of Public Works, City of Santa
Cruz

VERIFICATION FOR THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
I have read the foregoing Notice of Completion and know the contents thereof, and I certify that the same is true of my own knowledge, except as to those matters which are therein stated upon my information or belief, and as to those matters, I believe it to be true. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on September 9, 2025, at Santa Cruz, CA
Nathan Nguyen
Director of Public Works, City of Santa
Cruz

17.5 Notice of Completion (Revised Oct 2021)

PROOF OF SERVICE DECLARATION
(California Civil Code § 8118)
I, Ricardo Valdes, declare that I served copies of the above NOTICE OF COMPLETION on the interested parties, in the manner and at the date and place set forth below (Check One):

Direct Contractor: Anderson Pacific Engineering Construction, Inc. 1370 Norman Ave.

Santa Clara, CA 95054
☒ REGISTERED, CERTIFIED, OR EXPRESS MAIL: by placing the Notice in a sealed envelope with postage fully prepaid and depositing the envelope in the United States mail by registered, certified, or express mail. Documentation of such service is attached herein. ☐ OVERNIGHT DELIVERY: by causing the Notice to be picked up for overnight delivery by an express service carrier. Documentation of such service is attached herein. ☐ PERSONAL DELIVERY: by causing the Notice to be personally delivered to each of the addresses above stated on the date below.
☐ CODE OF CIV. PROC. § 415.20: by leaving the Notice and mailing a copy of the Notice in the manner provided under California Code of Civil Procedure § 415.20 for service of a summons and complaint in a civil action.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on September 9, 2025, at Santa Cruz, California.

Ricardo Valdes

17.6 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/21/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Water
SUBJECT: Award of Contract to MKN CPM, LLC. for On-Call Construction Management Services (WT)
LOCATION: None
RECOMMENDATION: Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with MKN CPM, LLC. (San Jose, CA) for On-Call Construction Management Services in a form to be approved by the City Attorney and authorizing the Water Director to execute future contract amendments that do not exceed the formal bid limit.

BACKGROUND: The Water Department’s (Department) 5-year Capital Investment Program (CIP) is estimated to cost over $270M between Fiscal Years 2026 and 2030. Implementation of a CIP of this scale and complexity requires staffing and expertise in many areas including construction management. An on-call agreement provides the Department flexibility with staffing projects and reduces the time and effort that would need to be spent soliciting construction management services on a per project basis.

Through a formal Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process, the first On-Call Construction Management Services master contract was issued in 2017 and renewed on an annual basis until June 30, 2025. Since its initial authorization, nine construction projects were supported. It is in the City’s best interest to resolicit for on call services from time to time to ensure the best value under current market conditions.

DISCUSSION: On June 27, 2025, the Water Department formally advertised a RFQ soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide on-call construction management services. The RFQ process included outreach to firms and the issuance of two Addenda in response to questions from prospective proposers. The RFQ received 13 proposals and deemed one proposal nonresponsive. The remaining 12 proposals were reviewed, evaluated, and scored in accordance with the criteria outlined in the RFQ. MKN CPM, LLC was identified as the most qualified firm to provide construction management services for the Department. A draft of the Professional Services Agreement and the final RFQ Results Tabulation are included as attachments to this staff report.

This On-Call Construction Management Services contract does not include a specific contract value since services are on as-needed basis. When Department staff identify a project that is in

18.1 need of those services, a project-specific scope of work, budget, and schedule will be added as an amendment to this contract. Council Policy 29.6 requires Council approval of contract amendments exceeding 10% of the original contract amount. Staff recommends that Council authorize the Water Director to execute future contract amendments that do not exceed the formal bid limit. However, contract amendments exceeding the formal bid threshold will still require Council approval.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed Council action is not a “project” under CEQA. The execution of this agreement is not a “project” under CEQA because the services provided do not have the potential to cause a physical change in the environment directly or indirectly.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): Continuation of an on-call construction management services contract provides alignment with the Public Health and Sustainability pillars of the City’s HiAP initiative by ensuring that when such services are needed the City can respond quickly. These resources help support the Water Department’s work in delivering projects that improve the reliability of the public drinking water supply in a method that is financially responsible and feasible for staff to implement.

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: There is no fiscal impact resulting from the authorization of this on-call agreement. Future amendments will be allocated per project in the Water Department’s Capital Investment Program budget through the duration of the agreement.

Prepared By:

Katy Fitzgerald
Management Analyst
Submitted By:

Heidi Luckenbach
Water Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RFQ RESULTS TABULATION.PDF

2. DRAFT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MKN CPM, LLC.PDF

18.2 Vendor
Criteria A:

Adherence to
Requirements
(5%)
Criteria B:

Firm Background
(25%)
Criteria C:

Firm
Qualifications,
Expertise, and
Experience
(25%)
Criteria D:

Time
Commitment and
Availability (20%)
Critieria E:

References
(25%)
Final Score
3D Built 5.0 23.0 20.0 17.0 24.0 89.00
4Leaf, Inc. 5.0 24.0 21.0 14.8 20.0 84.75
Brown and Caldwell 5.0 23.0 23.0 19.0 20.0 90.00
Carollo Engineers 5.0 23.0 23.0 18.0 23.0 92.00
Consor North America 5.0 24.0 24.0 19.0 24.0 96.00
Dabri, Inc. 3.0 24.0 21.0 18.0 24.0 90.00
Ghirardelli Associates 5.0 22.0 22.0 17.0 20.0 86.00
Kennedy Jenks 5.0 25.0 22.0 18.0 23.0 93.00
L2 Solutions 4.0 23.0 15.0 15.0 15.0 72.00
MKN CPM, LLC. 5.0 25.0 24.0 19.0 24.0 97.00
MNS Engineers 5.0 25.0 23.0 19.0 22.0 94.00
Mott MacDonald 5.0 24.0 23.0 15.0 23.0 90.00
R&J PRAM Mechanical* 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.00
* Proposal not scored after being found non-responsive to the services requested in the RFP Award Notice
Request For Qualifications for
On-Call Construction Management Services
The City of Santa Cruz has concluded the evaluation of the responses to the Request For Qualifications (“RFQ”) for Construction Management Services. The proposals were reviewed, evaluated and scored according to the criteria listed in the RFQ. The Santa Cruz City Council will award the contract to MKN CPM, LLC. based on the following results:

18.3 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for On-Call Construction Management
September 2025 Page 1
Professional Services Agreement With
MKN CPM, LLC.

For ON-CALL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES
THIS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) for professional services is made by and between the City of Santa Cruz (“City”) and _________________ MKN CPM, LLC. (“Consultant”) (each is referred to individually as a “Party” and collectively, as the “Parties”) as of ____________, 20__ (the “Effective Date”).

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of each other’s mutual promises, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

SECTION 1: SCOPE OF WORK
Consultant will provide construction management services as-needed for various Water Department Capital Investment Program projects. The Scope of Work per project will be agreed to between the Parties and will be added as a Contract Amendment to this Agreement. City may negotiate changes in the Scope of Work. No changes in the Scope of Work shall be made without the City's written approval.

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES OF CONSULTANT
All services performed by Consultant, or under Consultant’s direction, shall be rendered in accordance with the generally accepted practices, and to the standards of, Consultant's profession. Consultant represents and agrees that Consultant: (i) is fully experienced and properly qualified to perform the work and services provided for herein, (ii) has the financial capability required for the performance of the work and services, and (iii) is properly equipped and organized to perform the work and services in a competent, timely, and workmanlike/professional manner, in accordance with the requirements of this Agreement.

Consultant shall not undertake any work beyond the Scope of Work set forth in Exhibit A unless such additional work is approved in advance and in writing by City. City shall compensate Consultant for such additional work on the same basis as provided for in Section 4.

If, in performing the services, it is necessary to conduct field operations, security and safety of the job site will be the Consultant's responsibility excluding, the security and safety of any facility of City within the job site which is not under the Consultant’s control or authority.

Consultant shall meet with Heidi Luckenbach, Director of the Water Department, hereinafter called "Director", or other designated and authorized City personnel, and/ or third parties as necessary, on all matters connected with carrying out Consultant’s services described in Exhibit A. Such meetings shall be held at the request of either Party.

Consultant shall obtain City’s review and acceptance of completed work monthly, or at other intervals as may be mutually agreed upon during the term of this Agreement. Review or acceptance of Consultant’s work by City or its designee shall not relieve Consultant from responsibility for errors and omissions in Consultant’s work.

SECTION 3: RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CITY
City shall make available to Consultant all data and information in the City’s possession necessary to carrying out and completing the services and shall actively assist Consultant in obtaining such information from other agencies and individuals as needed. Consultant is entitled to reasonably rely upon the accuracy and completeness of such data and information, and Consultant shall provide City prompt written notice of any known defects in such data and information.

18.4 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for On-Call Construction Management
September 2025 Page 2
The Director may authorize a City staff person to serve as their representative with respect to this Agreement.

Consultant’s work shall be reviewed at such intervals as may be mutually agreed upon between the Parties. The City will be the sole judge of acceptable work, provided that such approval will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. If the work is not acceptable, City will inform Consultant of the changes or revisions necessary to secure acceptance.

SECTION 4: FEES AND PAYMENT
For the services performed, the City will pay the Consultant on a time-charge plus expense basis, monthly as charges accrue, the sum of Consultant's salary expenses and non-salary expenses. For the purposes of this Agreement, Consultant's salary expenses and non-salary expenses will be compensated at the rates set forth in the fee schedule detailed in Exhibit B and in accordance with the terms set forth therein. Where conflicts may occur, the provisions of this section apply. A Scope of Work and budget per project will be agreed to between the Parties and will be added as a Contract Amendment to this Agreement. Payment for the Consultant's services in carrying out the Scope of Work per project shall be made within the limit, or limits shown, in the applicable Contract Amendment and will not exceed the rates set forth in the fee schedule detailed in Exhibit B. Such payment shall be considered the full compensation for all personnel, materials, supplies, and equipment used by Consultant in Scope of Work. Markups shall not be charged for any approved sub-consultants or subcontractors.

Consultant agrees that the payments to Consultant specified in this Section 4 will constitute full and complete compensation for all obligations assumed by Consultant under this Agreement. Such payments shall be considered the full compensation for all personnel, materials, supplies, and equipment used by Consultant in the Scope of Work. Where conflicts regarding compensation may occur, the provisions of this section shall apply.

Variations from the budget for each project which are justified by statements indicating personnel time expended and submittal of a revised budget are allowed with City approval; however, in no event shall the total fee charged for the Scope of Work set forth in the applicable Contract Amendment exceed the budget without advance written City authorization in the form of an amendment or change order.

Invoices shall detail the time worked by each class of employee on each task and the expenses incurred for which billing is made. [Invoices shall indicate the percentage completion of each work task as identified in the Scope of Work in Exhibit A and the overall percentage of completion of the total required services.] Unless otherwise specified in the fee schedule, payments shall be made monthly by the City within 30 days based on itemized invoices from the Consultant which list the actual costs and expenses.

All invoices shall contain the following affidavit signed by Consultant (if individual) or by an authorized representative of Consultant (if Consultant is an entity):
“[I] or [As an authorized representative of Consultant, I] hereby certify that the charge of (Insert invoice amount) as summarized above and shown in detail on the attachments is in accordance with the terms of the Agreement by and between the City of Santa Cruz and (Insert Party Name) dated (Insert Agreement Date), and has not been previously paid." This Agreement is contingent upon the appropriation of sufficient funding by the City and/or [state] or [federal] government for the Scope of Work covered by this Agreement. If funding is reduced or deleted for the Scope of Work covered by this Agreement, the City has the option without penalty or liability to either terminate this Agreement or to offer an amendment to this Agreement indicating any reduced amount.

SECTION 5: TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT POLICY

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The City shall not be responsible for any travel, meal, or lodging reimbursements to Consultant and/or Consultant’s employees. The total fees and costs of Consultant’s services shall not exceed the amount described in the Fee Schedule.

SECTION 6: CHANGES IN WORK
City may negotiate changes to the Scope of Work. No changes to the Scope of Work shall be made without the prior written agreement between City and Consultant. Any change requiring compensation in excess of the sum specified in Exhibit B shall be approved in advance in writing by the City. Only the City’s authorized representative(s) is authorized to approve changes to this Agreement on behalf of City.

SECTION 7: TERM AND SCHEDULE
The term of this Agreement shall be for two years and commence on the effective date of this Agreement. The schedule per project will be agreed to between the Parties and will be included in the applicable Contract Amendment to this Agreement. At the option of the City, this Agreement may be renewed annually under the same contractual terms and conditions by letter agreement.

Consultant shall begin the Scope of Work as specified in a written authorization (e.g., Notice to Proceed) to perform services issued by the City. The written authorization to perform work shall not be issued until after this Agreement has been approved and executed by the City.

Neither party shall be held responsible for delay or default caused by declared emergencies, natural disasters, or any Force Majeure event which is beyond the party's reasonable control. Consultant 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 under this Agreement.

The City reserves the right to obtain the item(s) and/or services covered by this Agreement from another source during any on-going suspension of service due to the circumstances outlined above.

Consultant acknowledges that it is necessary for Consultant to complete its work on or before the completion date set forth in each preceding Contract Amendment per project in order to allow the City to achieve its objectives for entering into this Agreement. The Parties therefore agree that time is of the essence in the performance of this Agreement.

SECTION 8: TERMINATION
The City may terminate the Agreement for any reason by providing written notice to Consultant not less than 10 calendar days prior to an effective termination date.

The City may, at its option, allow Consultant to cure its failure to perform within 10 business days (or longer period authorized in writing by the City) from the date of the City’s termination notice. The termination shall be become effective if Consultant has not cured within the specified time period to the City’s satisfaction.

Consultant may terminate this Agreement for cause if the City fails to cure a material default in performance of its obligations under this Agreement within a period of 30 calendar days (or such longer period agreed to by the Consultant), from the date of the Consultant’s written termination notice specifying the default in performance.

Consultant must provide a written notice of termination to the City not less than 60 calendar days of the effective termination date.

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City’s only obligation to the Consultant will be just and equitable payment for services authorized by, and received to the satisfaction of, the City up to and including the effective date of termination less any amounts withheld. All finished or unfinished work or documents procured or produced under the Agreement will become property of the City upon the termination date. In the event of Consultant’s failure to perform pursuant to the Agreement, the City reserves the right to obtain services elsewhere and Consultant will be liable for the difference between the prices set forth in the terminated Agreement and the actual cost to the City. Termination of the Agreement pursuant to this paragraph shall not relieve the Consultant of any liability to the City for additional costs, expenses, or damages sustained by City due to failure of the Consultant to perform pursuant to the Agreement. City may withhold any payments to Consultant for the purpose of set-off until such time as the exact amount of damages due City from Consultant is determined. After the effective date of termination, Consultant will have no further claims against the City under the Agreement. No other compensation will be payable for anticipated profit on unperformed services.

SECTION 9: INSURANCE
Prior to the beginning of and throughout the duration of the Agreement, Consultant will maintain and comply with the Insurance Requirements as set forth in Exhibit C. Consultant will insure the City against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder. The insurance coverages required shall not in any way limit the liability of the Consultant.

SECTION 10: INDEMNIFICATION
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’ 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 §2782.8. This section shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

SECTION 11: EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICIES City’s policies promote a working environment free from abusive conduct, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; and require equal opportunity in employment for all regardless of race, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), color, national origin (including language use restrictions), ancestry, religion, disability (mental and physical), medical condition, sex, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), physical characteristics, marital status, age, sexual orientation, genetic information (including family health history and genetic test results), organizational affiliation, and military or veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by local, State or Federal law. City requires Consultant to comply with all applicable Federal and State and local equal employment opportunity laws and regulations, and Consultant is responsible for ensuring that effective policies and procedures concerning the prevention of abusive conduct, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation exist in Consultant’s business organization. The City’s current Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination policies to which this Section applies may be viewed at http://www.codepublishing.com/CA/SantaCruz/?SantaCruz09/SantaCruz0983.html and http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/home/showdocument?id=59192.

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SECTION 12: LEGAL ACTION/ATTORNEYS’ FEES
If any action at law or in equity is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees in addition to any other relief. The laws of the State of California, with jurisdiction in the Santa Cruz County Superior Court, shall govern all matters relating to the validity, interpretation, and effect of this Agreement and any authorized or alleged changes, the performance of any of its terms, as well as the rights and obligations of Consultant and the City.

SECTION 13: AMENDMENTS
This Agreement may not be amended in any respect except by way of a written instrument which expressly references and identifies this particular Agreement, which expressly states that its purpose is to amend this particular Agreement, and which is duly executed by the City and Consultant. Consultant acknowledges that no such amendment shall be effective until approved and authorized by the City’s authorized representative. No representative of the City is authorized to obligate the City to pay the cost or value of services beyond the scope of services set forth in Exhibit A.

Such authority is retained solely by the City Manager, Director, or their designee. Unless expressly authorized by the City Manager or Director, Consultant’s compensation shall be limited to that set forth in Exhibit B, Fee Schedule.

SECTION 14: MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Otherwise, no change in assignment by the Consultant may occur without prior written approval of the City.

2. Consultant Services Only. Consultant is employed to render professional services only and any payments made to Consultant are compensation solely for such professional services.

3. Independent Contractor. In the performance of this Agreement, it is expressly understood that Consultant, including each of Consultant’s employees, agents, subcontractors or others under Consultant’s supervision or control, is an independent contractor solely responsible for its own acts and omissions, and shall not be considered an employee of the City for any purpose. Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents against any claim or liability, including attorneys’ fees and costs, arising in any manner related to this Agreement that an employee, agent or others under Consultant’s supervision or control was misclassified.

In the event that Consultant or any employee, agent, or subcontractor of Consultant providing services under this Agreement is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction or the California Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) to be eligible for enrollment in PERS as an employee of City, Consultant shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless City for the payment of any employee and/or employer contributions for PERS benefits on behalf of Consultant or its employees, agents, or subcontractors, as well as for the payment of any penalties and interest on such contributions, which would otherwise be the responsibility of City.

4. Consultant Not an Agent. Except as City may specify in writing, Consultant shall have no authority, express or implied, to act on behalf of City in any capacity whatsoever as an agent. Consultant shall have no authority, express or implied, pursuant to this Agreement to bind City to any obligation whatsoever.

5. Subcontractors. Consultant shall obtain prior approval of the City prior to subcontracting of any work pursuant to this Agreement. If at any time, the City determines any subcontractor is incompetent or unqualified, Consultant will be notified and will be expected to immediately cancel the subcontract. Consultant shall require and verify that all subcontractors maintain insurance meeting all of the requirements stated herein, including naming the City of Santa

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Cruz, its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers as additional insureds. Any modification to the insurance requirements for subcontractors must be agreed to by the City in writing.

Consultant shall be as fully responsible to the City for the negligent acts and omissions of its contractors and subcontractors or subconsultants, and of persons either directly or indirectly employed by them, or acting on Consultant’s behalf pursuant to this Agreement, as it is for the acts and omissions of persons directly employed by Consultant. Consultant’s obligation to pay its subconsultants is an independent obligation from the City’s obligation to make payments to the Consultant.

6. Assignment. This Agreement shall not be assigned without first obtaining the express written consent of the Director or after approval of the City Council. Neither party may assign this Agreement unless this Agreement is amended in accordance with its terms.

7. Conflicts of Interest. Consultant agrees to comply with conflict of interest lawsin performing the work and services under this Agreement. Consultant covenants (on behalf of Consultant and Consultant’s employees, agents, representatives, and subcontractors) that there is no direct or indirect interest, financial or otherwise, which would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of services required under this Agreement. Consultant acknowledges and agrees to comply with applicable provisions of conflict of interest law and regulations, including the CA Political Reform Act, (Gov’t. Code §§1090, 87100), Levine Act (Gov’t. Code §84308), and the City’s conflict of interest code. Consultant will immediately advise City if Consultant learns of a conflicting financial interest of Consultant during the term of this Agreement.

8. City Property. The work, or any portion, of Consultant in performing this Agreement shall become the property of City. The Consultant may be permitted to retain copies of such work for information and reference in connection only with the provision of services for the City. All materials and work product, whether finished or unfinished, shall be delivered to City upon completion of contract services or termination of this Agreement for any reason.

Consultant acknowledges and agrees that the work product shall be considered a work made for hire within the meaning of the patent and copyright laws of the United States; and Consultant agrees that all copyrights which arise from creation of project-related documents and materials pursuant to this Agreement shall be vested in the City and Consultant waives and relinquishes all claims to copyright or other intellectual property rights in favor of City. Any work product related to this Agreement shall be confidential, not to be used by the Consultant on other projects or disclosed to any third party, except by agreement in writing by the City, or except as otherwise provided herein.

Consultant’s final deliverables shall comply with Section 508 (29 U.S.C. Section 794d) accessibility requirements, as applicable. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, Consultant shall retain the rights in any pre-existing standard drawing details, designs, specifications, databases, computer software, proprietary information, documents, templates, and any other property owned by Consultant on the date of this Agreement or developed outside of this Agreement.

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alleged, direct or contributory, of any Intellectual Property rights in any way related to Consultant’s performance under this Agreement or to the City’s authorized intended or actual use of Consultant’s product or service under this Agreement. This provision shall survive termination or expiration of this Agreement. c. If any product or service becomes, or in the Consultant’s opinion is likely to become, the subject of a claim of infringement, the Consultant shall, at its sole expense: (i) provide the City the right to continue using the product or service; or (ii) replace or modify the product or service so that it becomes non-infringing; or (iii) if none of the foregoing alternatives are possible even after Consultant’s commercially reasonable efforts, in addition to other available legal remedies, City will have the right to return the product or service and receive a full or partial refund of an amount equal to the value of the returned product or service, less the unpaid portion of the purchase price and any other amounts, which may be due to the Consultant. City shall have the right to retrieve its data and proprietary information at no charge prior to any return of the product or termination of service.

10. Confidentiality.
a. Consultant shall not acquire any ownership interest in data and information (“City Data”) received by Consultant from City, which shall remain the property of the City. Certain information may be considered confidential (“Confidential Information”). Confidential Information shall mean all information or proprietary materials (in every form and media) not generally known to the public and which has been or is hereafter disclosed or made available directly or indirectly to Consultant through any means of communication, either verbally or in writing even if it has not been designated in writing as “Confidential” to Consultant in connection with this Agreement. Unless otherwise required by law, Consultant shall not, without City’s written permission, use or disclose City Data and/or Confidential Information other than in the performance of the obligations under this Agreement. As between Consultant and City, all City Confidential Information shall remain the property of the City. Consultant shall not acquire ownership interest in the City’s Confidential Information. b. Consultant shall be responsible for ensuring and maintaining the security and confidentiality of City Data and Confidential Information, protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of City Data and Confidential Information, protect against unauthorized access to or use of City Data and Confidential Information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to City or any end users; and ensure the proper return and/or disposal of City Data and Confidential Information upon termination of this Agreement with notice to the City.
c. Consultant shall take appropriate action to address any incident of unauthorized access to City Data and Confidential Information, including addressing and/or remedying the issue that resulted in such unauthorized access, notifying City as soon as possible of any incident of unauthorized access to City Data and Confidential Information, or any other breach in Consultant’s security that materially affects City or end users; and be responsible for ensuring compliance by its officers, employees, agents, and subcontractors with the confidentiality provisions hereof. Should confidential and/or legally protected City Data be divulged to unauthorized third parties, Consultant shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, including but not limited to California Civil Code sections 1798.29 and 1798.82 at Consultant’s sole expense.

Consultant shall not charge City for any expenses associated with Consultant’s compliance with these obligations.

d. Consultant shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless City, its officials, officers, employees and agents against any claim, liability, loss, injury or damage (including attorneys’ fee and costs) arising out of, or in connection with, the unauthorized use, access, and/or disclosure of City Data and/or Confidential Information by Consultant and/or its agents, employees or subcontractors, excepting only loss, injury or damage caused by the

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sole negligence or willful misconduct of the City. This provision shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement.

11. Consultant's Records/Audits. Consultant shall 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, in compliance with Gov. Code §8546.7 for a contract in excess of $10,000, or in compliance with other applicable federal laws (e.g. 48 CFR 31) or regulations for a period of three (3) years from: the date of the final City payment for Consultant's services, or from the date of final disposition of real property or equipment acquired with federal funds, or date of the termination of this Agreement, whichever is later. If Consultant engages a subcontractor to perform work related to this Agreement with a cost of $10,000 or more over a 12-month period, such subcontract shall contain these same requirements. This provision shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

12. California Public Records Act. City is a public agency subject to the disclosure requirements of the California Public Records Act (“CPRA”). If Consultant’s proprietary information is contained in documents or information submitted to City, and Consultant claims that such information falls within one or more CPRA exemptions, Consultant must clearly mark such information “Confidential and Proprietary,” and identify the specific lines containing the information. In the event of a request for such information, City will make best efforts to provide notice to Consultant prior to such disclosure. If Consultant contends that any documents are exempt from the CPRA and wishes to prevent disclosure, it is required to obtain a protective order, injunctive relief, or other appropriate remedy from a court of law in Santa Cruz County before the City is required to respond to the CPRA request. If Consultant fails to obtain such remedy within the time the City is required to respond to the CPRA request, City may disclose the requested information without any liability. Consultant further agrees that it shall defend, indemnify and hold City harmless against any claim, action or litigation (including but not limited to all judgments, costs, and attorney’s fees) that may result from denial by City of a CPRA request for information arising from any representation, or any action (or inaction), by the Consultant.

13. Compliance with Laws. All activities of Consultant, its employees, subcontractors and/or agents will be carried out in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Consultant further agrees to comply with the covenant of good faith and fair dealing and other provisions of Santa Cruz Municipal Ordinance chapter 3.09, or otherwise Consultant may be subject to penalties including being declared an irresponsible contractor.

14. Licensure. Consultant agrees that Consultant, its subcontractors and/or agents (if any) has/have complied with all applicable federal, state, and local licensing requirements and agrees to provide proof of a current City of Santa Cruz Business Tax Certificate if:
• Consultant, its subcontractor(s) and agent(s) or its business is/are located in the City of Santa Cruz; • Will perform actual work in the City of Santa Cruz for 6 or more days annually; or • Will use company vehicles to deliver within the City of Santa Cruz for 6 or more days annually.

For additional information and licensing requirements, view the City’s Business Licenses and Permits webpage or call the Revenue and Taxation division at 831/420-5070.

15. Living Wage. Every contract for services to the City for $10,000 or more, is subject to City of Santa Cruz Living Wage Ordinance number 2000-25. If applicable, Consultant agrees to comply with the requirements of the Living Wage ordinance as provided in Santa Cruz Municipal Code Chapter 5.10.

16. Prevailing Wages for Public Work. To the extent that the work or services to be performed under this Agreement may be considered a “public work” (construction, alteration, demolition, or repair work) pursuant and subject to Labor Code section 1720 et seq., Consultant (and any subconsultant performing the work or services) shall

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conform to any and all prevailing wage requirements applicable to such work/and or services under this Agreement. Consultant (and any subconsultant) shall adhere to the prevailing wage determinations made by the Director of Industrial Relations (DIR) pursuant to California Labor Code Part 7, Chapter 1, Article 2, applicable to the work, if any. 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. (CA Labor Code sections 1720, 1774 and 1782.) To the extent applicable to the scope of work and services under this Agreement, Consultant agrees to be bound by the state prevailing wage requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:
a. If a worker is paid less than the applicable prevailing wage rate owed for a calendar day (or any portion thereof), Consultant shall pay the worker the difference between the prevailing wage rate and the amount actually paid for each calendar day (or portion thereof) for which the worker(s) was paid less than the prevailing wage rate, as specified in Labor Code section 1775; b. Consultant shall maintain and make available payroll and worker records in accordance with Labor Code sections 1776 and 1812;
c. If Consultant employs (and/or is legally required to employ) apprentices in performing the work and/or services under this Agreement, Consultant shall ensure compliance with Labor Code section 1777.5; d. Consultant is aware of the limitations imposed on overtime work by Labor Code sections 1810 et seq. and shall be responsible for any penalties levied in accordance with Labor Code section 1813 for failing to pay required overtime wages;
e. Consultant shall post a copy of the applicable wage rates at each jobsite at a location readily available to its workers.
f. Any failure of Consultant and/or its subconsultant to comply with the above requirements relating to a public work project shall constitute a breach of this Agreement that excuses the City’s performance of this Agreement at the City’s sole and absolute option and shall be at the sole risk of Consultant. Consultant on behalf of itself and any subconsultant, agree to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City and its officials, officers, 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 Consultant and any subconsultant to pay prevailing wages or to otherwise comply with the requirements of prevailing wage law relating to a public work.
g. Consultant acknowledges that it and/or any subconsultant may not engage in the performance of any contract for public work unless currently registered with the DIR and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5 [with limited exceptions from this requirement for bid purposes only under Labor Code section 1771.1(a)].

17. Storm Water Requirements. To the extent applicable to the Scope of Work under this Agreement, Consultant, Consultant’s employees, subcontractors, and agents are required to abide by the applicable City of Santa Cruz Storm Water Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the duration of the work. The City’s mandatory Storm Water BMPs, which are listed according to the type of work, operations, or business, are located on the City website at: https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/public-works/stormwater/bestmanagement-practices

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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 shall 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 dispute involves or relates to a public works project, the Parties agree to attempt to resolve the dispute by complying with the claims process as set forth in Public Contract Code sections 9204(e), 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. Force Majeure. Neither party hereto shall be considered in default in the performance of its obligation hereunder 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 hereto shall 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. In the event either party is prevented or delayed in the performance of its respective obligation by reason of such Force Majeure, the only remedy is that there may be an equitable adjustment of the schedule based on City’s sole discretion.

20. Complete Agreement. This Agreement, along with any attachments, is the full and complete integration of the Parties’ agreement with respect to the matters addressed herein, and that this Agreement supersedes any previous written or oral agreements between the Parties with respect to the matters addressed herein. Unless otherwise stated, to the extent there is any conflict between this Agreement and any other agreement (written or oral), the terms of this Agreement shall control.

21. Severability. The unenforceability, invalidity or illegality of any provision(s) of this Agreement shall not render the other provisions unenforceable, invalid or illegal.

22. Waiver. Waiver by any party of any portion of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of the same or any other portion hereof.

23. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with California law.

24. Contract Interpretation. Each party acknowledges that it has reviewed this 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 Agreement.

25. MacBride Principles/Peace Charter. City of Santa Cruz Resolution NS-19,378 (7/24/90) encourages all companies doing business in Northern Ireland to abide by the MacBride Principles and Peace Charter.

26. Notices. If either party shall desire 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; (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; (c) priority U.S. Mail, in which case notice shall be deemed delivered

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on the second business day after the deposit thereof with the U.S. Postal Service. Notices shall be addressed to recipient as follows:

To CITY:

City of Santa Cruz Water Department
Heidi Luckenbach, P.E., Water Director
212 Locust Street, Suite A
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
[email protected]/831-420-5200
To CONSULTANT:

MKN CPM, LLC.

Peter Brennan, P.E., CCM
100 Century Center Court, Suite 670
San Jose, CA 95112
[email protected]/661-425-6363
The Parties must provide notice of any changes to the above information in writing at least ten (10) business days before the change is effective.

27. Counterparts. The Parties may execute this 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.

28. 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 representatives, agents, successors and assigns to comply with the provisions of this Agreement. [SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

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Approved As To Form:

By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Office of the City Attorney

CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Matt Huffaker
City Manager
CONSULTANT: MKN CPM, LLC.

By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Printed: ___________________________ Title: __________________ By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Printed: ___________________________ Title: __________________ LLC- For a member-managed LLC, signature of any member. For a manager-managed LLC, signature

TECHNICAL REVIEW
By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Isidro Rivera, P.E., Deputy Water Director/Engineering Manager

CITY OF SANTA CRUZ WATER DEPARTMENT
By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Heidi Luckenbach, P.E.,
Water Director

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EXHIBIT A: SCOPE OF SERVICES
Consultant will provide construction management services as-needed for various Water Department Capital Improvement Program projects. The Consultant will be under the general supervision of the City’s Project Engineer. The Scope of Work per project will be agreed to between the Parties and will be added as a Contract Amendment to this Agreement. City may negotiate changes in the Scope of Work. No changes in the Scope of Work shall be made without the City's written approval.

The City and Consultant will develop a Scope of Work (SOW) for specific projects when needed. The SOW will typically include the following tasks:
• Review project contract documents, contractor submittals, and other documentation to develop full understanding of scope of work, and project requirements; • Document work performed by contractor with daily field reports, inspection logs, photographs, noted deficiencies in work, and other records as necessary all in a City-approved format; • Generate and maintain “as-built” drawings;
• Attend project meetings with City and Contractor(s) to review construction methods and coordinate inspections;
• Inspect work to ensure compliance with project plans and specifications including a continuous on-site presence;
• Perform inspections at all times of day, including night work, weekend work and holiday work • Respond to request for inspections within 48 hours of City’s request; • Inspect and record compliance with safety, traffic control, discharge permits, and other project-specific requirements and permits;
• Prepare and distribute public notices to affected property owners, members of the public and other defined project stakeholders regarding schedule of work, project impacts and impacts to service; • Act as City’s representative at the construction site; • Coordinate the work of project consultants;
• Coordinate and respond to Requests for Information (RFIs). • Review material testing certificates to verify compliance with project requirements; • Assist with preparation of final punch list (corrective) items; and • Provide Contract Administration services such as:
o Ensuring compliance with federal and or state contract requirements, o Provide cost monitoring,
o Review and evaluate requests for payment and change order requests, o Ensure prevailing wage and labor compliance, and
o Monitor project schedule and identify deviations.

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EXHIBIT B: FEE SCHEDULE

18.17 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for On-Call Construction Management
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EXHIBIT C: 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, 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, • The Certificate Holder will be City of Santa Cruz, Risk Management, 1200 Pacific Ave., Suite 290, Santa Cruz, CA 95060,
• Certificate will be signed by an authorized representative, • An endorsement, if required below, will be provided to show the City, its officers, officials, employees, and volunteers as additional insureds, and
• 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): $1,000,000 PER OCCURRENCE; $2,000,000 AGGREGATE Proof of coverage for $1 Million per occurrence and $2 Million in the aggregate 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 non-renewed 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 the contract of work.
• 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.

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• 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.
• CONTRACTORS’ POLLUTION LIABILITY and/or ASBESTOS POLLUTION LIABILITY (CPL) (if project involves environmental hazards) with limits no less than $2,000,000 per occurrence or claim, and $2,000,000 policy aggregate.

1. If the services involve lead-based paint or asbestos identification / remediation, the Pollution Liability shall not contain lead-based paint or asbestos exclusions. If the services involve mold identification / remediation, the Pollution Liability shall not contain a mold exclusion and the definition of “Pollution” shall include microbial matter including mold.

2. The Automobile Liability policy shall be endorsed to include Transportation Pollution Liability insurance, covering hazardous materials to be transported by Consultant pursuant to the Agreement. This coverage may also be provided on the Consultant’s Pollution Liability policy.

C. OTHER INSURANCE PROVISIONS
The insurance policies are to comply with the following provisions:
• ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS
The City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, 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 Consultant including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations, products and completed 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 and all subcontractor’s insurance coverage will be primary and non-contributory 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 and all subcontractor’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.

18.19 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for On-Call Construction Management
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• 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, 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 Consultant’s primary and excess liability policies are exhausted. • SELF-INSURED RETENTIONS (SIR)
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 policy (and CPL, automobile and any Excess Liability/Umbrella policies, as applicable) 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. SUBCONTRACTORS
Consultant shall include their subcontractor(s) as additional insured(s) under the policies or shall furnish separate certificates and endorsements for each contractor and subcontractor. Consultant shall require and verify that all contractors and subcontractors maintain insurance meeting all the requirements stated herein, and Consultant shall ensure that City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, and volunteers are named as additional insureds on insurance required from its contractor(s) and subcontractor(s).

E. SPECIAL RISKS/CIRCUMSTANCES

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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.

18.21 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/21/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Water
SUBJECT: Financial Planning Services for Water Rates (WT) LOCATION: None
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve a contract with Bartle Wells Associates (Berkeley, CA) in a not-to-exceed amount of $199,550 for financial planning and cost-of-service analysis for water rates.

BACKGROUND: The Santa Cruz Water Department (Department) routinely conducts a comprehensive rate study on a five-year cycle for adopting multi-year rate schedules. The Department completed its last comprehensive rate study in 2021, and the Council-approved water rate increases from that effort will be in effect through June of 2027. To have appropriate future rates in place in a timely manner, the Department must initiate a comprehensive water rate study that complies with the requirements of Proposition 218.

Updating water rates through a comprehensive water rate study is an important step in maintaining the Department’s long-term fiscal sustainability. The process will ensure that water rates continue to provide stable funding for operations, meet debt service and reserve targets, and support ongoing investment in water system reliability and infrastructure improvements.

A comprehensive water rate study involves several key components to ensure financial sustainability and policy alignment. It begins with reviewing and updating, as needed, the utility's financial policies and pricing objectives. The process includes establishing annual revenue requirements and forecasting water demands while considering information about the volume of annual water sales. A detailed cost of service analysis is also conducted to understand the allocation of costs among customer classes. Various water rate structures are then developed and evaluated to determine the most effective approach. Finally, recommended rates and a rate structure are proposed that comply with the requirements of Proposition 218, meet the Department’s revenue needs, and align with its established policies and pricing objectives.

DISCUSSION: Staff recommend contracting with Bartle Wells Associates (BWA) to conduct a comprehensive rate study. BWA recently provided similar financial planning and rate design services for the City’s wastewater enterprise. Through that project, the consultant developed familiarity with the City’s financial model, billing systems, and the policy environment, which provides efficiency in support of the Water Department financial planning efforts. The proposed

19.1 contract represents a fair and reasonable value to the City given BWA’s qualifications, competitive selection, and cost stability over time.

BWA will provide the following services:

Policy and Financial Analyses related to the comprehensive water rate study:
 Support the update of the City of Santa Cruz Water Department Long Range Financial Plan to reflect current operating and capital investment needs, debt service coverage requirements, and reserve targets.
 Conduct a Cost-of-Service Analysis to evaluate equity in cost recovery across customer classes and ensure compliance with Proposition 218.
 Develop rate structure alternatives and multi-year rate schedules that meet revenue needs, incorporating the pricing objectives set forth.
 Analyze financial scenarios to assess the impacts of capital financing assumptions, demand forecasts and rate structures.
 Provide Proposition 218 technical support, including preparation of the administrative records and compliance documentation.

Policy and Financial Analyses related to water System Development Charges:
 Review the existing System Development Charges and the associated studies.  Work with Water Department staff to identify the changed conditions and policy issues related to Water System Development Charges since 2020.  Analyze and evaluate alternative methodologies for setting the System Development Charges, determine the current value and capacity of assets, and allocate capital costs to current and future system users.
 Using the recommended approach, complete the analyses required to set the proposed System Development Charges, including a method for future capacity charge updates.  Review the provisions of the Santa Cruz Municipal Code Section 16.14.040(b) related to the purposes and uses for System Development Charge revenue and, if appropriate, develop any recommended changes to the Code.
 Document the work completed in a comprehensive report.

Water Department staff will lead the overall effort in collaboration with BWA, with input and feedback provided by an Ad Hoc Committee of the Water Commission and, ultimately, the full Commission. Staff will keep the City Council informed through the process by periodic updates and will return with a full report prior to bringing a rate recommendation forward for Council consideration.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed Council action is not a “project” under CEQA. The execution of a contract with Bartle Wells Associates for support with financial planning and cost-of-service analysis is not a “project” under CEQA because the services provided do not have the potential to cause a physical change in the environment directly or indirectly.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): Reviewing and updating the Water Department’s rates strengthens long-term financial stability, ensuring funding for daily operations and supporting investments in system resiliency. Additionally, adjusting the System Development Charge, provides dedicated funding for infrastructure improvements and conservation programs that help

19.2 expand the community’s water supply. Together, these efforts advance the Public Health and Sustainability pillars of the City’s HiAP initiative.

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: Funds are available in the Water Department’s Fiscal Year 2026 operating budget. The not-to-exceed cost is $199,550.

Prepared By:

Nick Kurns
Assistant Finance Director –
Water Department
Submitted By:

Heidi Luckenbach
Water Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. DRAFT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES.PDF

2. SOLE SOURCE VENDOR MEMO.PDF

19.3 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 1
Professional Services Agreement With

BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES
For WATER RATE AND WATER SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT CHARGE

RELATED FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES
THIS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) for professional services is made by and between the City of Santa Cruz (“City”) and Bartle Wells Associates (“Consultant”) (each is referred to individually as a “Party” and collectively, as the “Parties”) as of ____________, 2025 (the “Effective Date”).

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of each other’s mutual promises, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

SECTION 1: SCOPE OF WORK
Consultant will furnish services as defined and described in the Scope of Work, attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein.

SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES OF CONSULTANT
All work performed by Consultant, or under Consultant’s direction, shall be rendered in accordance with the generally accepted practices, and to the standards of, Consultant's profession. Consultant represents and agrees that Consultant: (i) is fully experienced and properly qualified to perform the work and services provided for herein, (ii) has the financial capability required for the performance of the work and services, and (iii) is properly equipped and organized to perform the work and services in a competent, timely, and proper manner, in accordance with the requirements of this Agreement.

Consultant shall not undertake any work beyond the Scope of Work set forth in Exhibit A unless such additional work is approved in advance and in writing by City. The cost of such additional work shall be reimbursed to Consultant by City on the same basis as provided for in Section 4.

If, in performing the work, it is necessary to conduct field operations, security and safety of the job site will be the Consultant's responsibility excluding, the security and safety of any facility of City within the job site which is not under the Consultant's control.

Consultant shall meet with Heidi Luckenbach, Director of the Water Department, hereinafter called "Director", or other designated and authorized City personnel, or third parties as necessary, on all matters connected with carrying out of Consultant’s services described in Exhibit A. Such meetings shall be held at the request of either Party.

Review and City approval of completed work shall be obtained monthly, or at other intervals as may be mutually agreed upon during the course of this Agreement. Review, approval, or acceptance of Consultant’s work by City or others shall not relieve Consultant from responsibility for errors and omissions in Consultant’s work.

SECTION 3: RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CITY
City shall make available to Consultant all necessary data and information in the City's possession and shall actively assist Consultant in obtaining such information from other agencies and individuals as needed. Consultant is entitled to reasonably rely upon the accuracy and completeness of such data and information, and Consultant shall provide City prompt written notice of any known defects in such data and information.

The Director may authorize a staff person to serve as his or her representative. The work in progress shall be reviewed at such intervals as may be mutually agreed upon between the Parties. The City will be the sole judge of

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acceptable work, provided that such approval will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. If the work is not acceptable, City will inform Consultant of the changes or revisions necessary to secure approval.

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SECTION 4: FEES AND PAYMENT
For services actually performed, the City will compensate Consultant at the rates set forth in the Fee Schedule detailed in Exhibit B and in accordance with the terms set forth therein. Payment for Consultant's services in carrying out the entire Scope of Work shall be made within the budget limit, or limits shown, upon Exhibit B. Such payment shall be considered the full compensation for all personnel, materials, supplies, and equipment used by Consultant in the Scope of Work.

Variations from the budget for each task which are justified by statements indicating personnel time expended and submittal of a revised budget are only allowed with prior City approval; however, in no event shall the total fee charged for the Scope of Work set forth in Exhibit A exceed the budget of $199,550 without advance written City authorization in the form of an amendment or change order.

Invoices shall detail the time worked by each class of employee on each task and the expenses incurred for which billing is made. Invoices shall indicate the percentage completion of each work task as identified in the Scope of Work in Exhibit A and the overall percentage of completion of the total required services. Unless otherwise specified in the fee schedule, payments shall be made monthly by the City within 30 days based on itemized invoices from the Consultant which list the actual costs and expenses.

All invoices shall contain the following affidavit signed by Consultant (if individual) or by a principal of Consultant’s firm (if Consultant is an entity):
"I hereby certify [or as principal of Consultant] that the charge of (Insert invoice amount) as summarized above and shown in detail on the attachments is a fair and reasonable use of public funds, is in accordance with the terms of Agreement dated (Insert Agreement Date), and has not been previously paid."
This Agreement is contingent upon the appropriation of sufficient funding by the City for the services covered by this Agreement. If funding is reduced or deleted by the City for the services covered by this Agreement, the City has the option without penalty or liability to either terminate this Agreement or to offer an amendment to this Agreement indicating the reduced amount.

SECTION 5: TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT POLICY
The City shall not be responsible for any travel, meal, or lodging reimbursements to Consultant and/or Consultant’s employees The total fees and costs of Consultant’s services shall not exceed the amount described in the Fee Schedule.

SECTION 6: CHANGES IN WORK
City may negotiate changes in the Scope of Work. No changes in the Scope of Work shall be made without the written approval of City and Consultant. Any change requiring compensation in excess of the sum specified in Exhibit B shall be approved in advance in writing by the City. Only City’s authorized representative(s) is authorized to approve changes to this Agreement on behalf of City.

SECTION 7: TIME OF BEGINNING AND SCHEDULE FOR COMPLETION

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The term of this Agreement shall commence on the effective date of this Agreement and terminate upon completion of the Scope of Work. At the option of the City, this Agreement may be renewed annually under the same contractual terms and conditions by letter agreement.

Consultant shall begin work as specified in a written authorization (e.g., Notice to Proceed) to perform services. The written authorization to perform work shall not be issued until after this Agreement has been approved and authorized by the City.

The Work Schedule for completion of the work shall be as shown upon Exhibit C. In the event that major changes are ordered, the schedule for completion as stated in Exhibit C may be adjusted by City so as to allow Consultant a reasonable period of time within which to complete any additional work which may be required as a result of the ordered changes.

Neither party will be held responsible for delay or default caused by declared emergencies, natural disasters, or any Force Majeure event which is beyond the party's reasonable control. Consultant 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.

The City reserves the right to obtain the item(s) and/or services covered by this Agreement from another source during any on-going suspension of service due to the circumstances outlined above.

Consultant acknowledges that it is necessary for Consultant to complete its work on or before the completion date set forth in Exhibit C in order to allow the City to achieve its objectives for entering into this Agreement. The Parties therefore agree that time is of the essence in the performance of this Agreement.

SECTION 8: TERMINATION
The City may terminate the Agreement for any reason by providing written notice to Consultant not less than 10 calendar days prior to an effective termination date.

Consultant must provide a written notice of termination to the City not less than 60 calendar days of the effective termination date.

Upon notice of termination by either the City or Consultant, the Consultant will immediately act to not incur any additional obligations, costs or expenses, except as may be reasonably necessary to terminate its activities. The City’s only obligation to the Consultant will be just and equitable payment for services authorized by, and received to the satisfaction of, the City up to and including the effective date of termination less any amounts withheld. All finished or unfinished work or documents procured or produced under the Agreement will become property of the City upon the termination date. In the event of Consultant’s failure to perform pursuant to the Agreement, the City reserves the right to obtain services elsewhere and Consultant will be liable for the difference between the prices set forth in the terminated Agreement and the actual cost to the City. Termination of the Agreement pursuant to this paragraph shall not relieve the Consultant of any liability to City for additional costs, expenses, or damages sustained by City due to failure of the Consultant to perform pursuant to the Agreement. City may withhold any payments to

19.7 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
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Consultant for the purpose of set-off until such time as the exact amount of damages due City from Consultant is determined. After the effective date of termination, Consultant will have no further claims against the City under the Agreement. No other compensation will be payable for anticipated profit on unperformed services.

SECTION 9: INSURANCE
Prior to the beginning of and throughout the duration of the Agreement, Consultant will maintain and comply with the Insurance Requirements as set forth in Exhibit D. Consultant will insure the City against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the work hereunder. The insurance coverages required shall not in any way limit the liability of the Consultant.

SECTION 12: LEGAL ACTION/ATTORNEYS’ FEES
If any action at law or in equity is brought to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees in addition to any other relief. The laws of the State of California, with jurisdiction in the Santa Cruz County Superior Court, shall govern all matters relating to the validity, interpretation, and effect of this Agreement and any authorized or alleged changes, the performance of any of its terms, as well as the rights and obligations of Consultant and the City.

SECTION 13: AMENDMENTS

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This Agreement may not be amended in any respect except by way of a written instrument which expressly references and identifies this particular Agreement, which expressly states that its purpose is to amend this particular Agreement, and which is duly executed by the City and Consultant. Consultant acknowledges that no such amendment shall be effective until approved and authorized by the City’s authorized representative. No representative of the City is authorized to obligate the City to pay the cost or value of services beyond the scope of services set forth in Exhibit A.

SECTION 14: MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

1. Project Manager/Key Staff. Director reserves the right to evaluate and confer with Consultant regarding the project manager or other key staff assigned by Consultant to perform the work under this Agreement. Consultant shall replace the project manager or key staff upon Director’s request due to Director’s concern about their performance, or City shall have the right to terminate this Agreement. Otherwise, no change in assignment by the Consultant may occur without prior written approval of the City.

2. Consultant Services Only. Consultant is employed to render professional services only and any payments made to Consultant are compensation solely for such professional services.

3. Independent Contractor. In the performance of this Agreement, it is expressly understood that Consultant, including each of Consultant’s employees, agents, subcontractors or others under Consultant’s supervision or control, is an independent contractor solely responsible for its own acts and omissions, and shall not be considered an employee of the City for any purpose. Consultant agrees to comply with AB5, codified at Labor Code section 2750.3, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents against any claim or liability, including attorneys’ fees and costs, arising in any manner related to this Agreement that an employee, agent or others under Consultant’s supervision or control was misclassified.

7. Conflicts of Interest. Consultant agrees to comply with conflict of interest laws in performing the work and services under this Agreement. Consultant covenants (on behalf of Consultant and Consultant’s employees, agents, representatives, and subcontractors) that there is no direct or indirect interest, financial or otherwise, which would conflict in any manner or degree with the performance of services required under this Agreement. Consultant acknowledges and agrees to comply with applicable provisions of conflict of interest law and regulations, including the CA Political Reform Act, (Gov’t. Code §§1090, 87100), Levine Act (Gov’t. Code §84308), and the City’s conflict of interest code. Consultant will immediately advise City if Consultant learns of a conflicting financial interest of Consultant during the term of this Agreement.

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9. Intellectual Property and Indemnity.
a. Consultant represents to City that, to the best of Consultant’s knowledge, any Intellectual Property (including but not limited to: patent, patent application, trade secret, copyright and any applications or right to apply for registration, computer software programs or applications, tangible or intangible proprietary information, or any other intellectual property right) in connection with any services and/or products related to this Agreement does not violate or infringe upon any Intellectual Property rights of any other person or entity. b. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless City, its officials, officers, employees, and agents, from any and all claims, demands, actions, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs) arising out of a claim of infringement, actual or alleged, direct or contributory, of any Intellectual Property rights in any way related to Consultant’s performance under this Agreement or to the City’s authorized intended or actual use of Consultant’s product or service under this Agreement. This provision shall survive termination or expiration of this Agreement. c. If any product or service becomes, or in the Consultant’s opinion is likely to become, the subject of a claim of infringement, the Consultant shall, at its sole expense: (i) provide the City the right to continue using the product or service; or (ii) replace or modify the product or service so that it becomes non-infringing; or (iii) if none of the foregoing alternatives are possible even after Consultant’s commercially reasonable efforts, in addition to other available legal remedies, City will have the right to return the product or service and receive a full or partial refund of an amount equal to the value of the returned product or service, less the unpaid portion of the purchase price and any other amounts, which may be due to the Consultant. City shall have the right to retrieve its data and proprietary information at no charge prior to any return of the product or termination of service.

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verbally or in writing even if it has not been designated in writing as “Confidential” to Consultant in connection with this Agreement. Unless otherwise required by law, Consultant shall not, without City’s written permission, use or disclose City Data and/or Confidential Information other than in the performance of the obligations under this Agreement. As between Consultant and City, all City Confidential Information shall remain the property of the City. Consultant shall not acquire ownership interest in the City’s Confidential Information. b. Consultant shall be responsible for ensuring and maintaining the security and confidentiality of City Data and Confidential Information, protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of City Data and Confidential Information, protect against unauthorized access to or use of City Data and Confidential Information that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to City or any end users; and ensure the proper return and/or disposal of City Data and Confidential Information upon termination of this Agreement with notice to the City.
c. Consultant shall take appropriate action to address any incident of unauthorized access to City Data and Confidential Information, including addressing and/or remedying the issue that resulted in such unauthorized access, notifying City as soon as possible of any incident of unauthorized access to City Data and Confidential Information, or any other breach in Consultant’s security that materially affects City or end users; and be responsible for ensuring compliance by its officers, employees, agents, and subcontractors with the confidentiality provisions hereof. Should confidential and/or legally protected City Data be divulged to unauthorized third parties, Consultant shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, including but not limited to California Civil Code sections 1798.29 and 1798.82 at Consultant’s sole expense.

Consultant shall not charge City for any expenses associated with Consultant’s compliance with these obligations.

11. Consultant's Records. Consultant shall 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, in compliance with Gov. Code §8546.7 for a contract in excess of $10,000, or in compliance with other applicable federal laws (e.g. 48 CFR 31) or regulations for a period of three (3) years from:
the date of the final City payment for Consultant's services, or from the date of final disposition of real property or equipment acquired with federal funds, or date of the termination of this Agreement, whichever is later. If Consultant engages a subcontractor to perform work related to this Agreement with a cost of $10,000 or more over a 12-month period, such subcontract shall contain these same requirements. This provision shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

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August 2025 Page 9
respond to the CPRA request. If Consultant fails to obtain such remedy within the time the City is required to respond to the CPRA request, City may disclose the requested information without any liability. Consultant further agrees that it shall defend, indemnify and hold City harmless against any claim, action or litigation (including but not limited to all judgments, costs, and attorney’s fees) that may result from denial by City of a CPRA request for information arising from any representation, or any action (or inaction), by the Consultant.

For additional information and licensing requirements, view the City’s Business Licenses and Permits webpage or call the Revenue and Taxation division at 831/420-5070.

16. 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.

17. Force Majeure. Neither party hereto shall be considered in default in the performance of its obligation hereunder 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 hereto shall 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. In the event either party is prevented or delayed in the performance of its respective obligation by reason of such Force Majeure, the only remedy is that there may be an equitable adjustment of the schedule based on City’s sole discretion.

19.12 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 10

18. Complete Agreement. This Agreement, along with any attachments, is the full and complete integration of the Parties’ agreement with respect to the matters addressed herein, and that this Agreement supersedes any previous written or oral agreements between the Parties with respect to the matters addressed herein. Unless otherwise stated, to the extent there is any conflict between this Agreement and any other agreement (written or oral), the terms of this Agreement shall control.

19. Severability. The unenforceability, invalidity or illegality of any provision(s) of this Agreement shall not render the other provisions unenforceable, invalid or illegal.

20. Waiver. Waiver by any party of any portion of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of the same or any other portion hereof.

21. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with California law.

22. Contract Interpretation. Each party acknowledges that it has reviewed this 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 Agreement.

23. MacBride Principles/Peace Charter. City of Santa Cruz Resolution NS-19,378 (7/24/90) encourages all companies doing business in Northern Ireland to abide by the MacBride Principles and Peace Charter.

24. Notices. If either party shall desire 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; (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; (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 shall be addressed to recipient as follows:

To CITY:

City of Santa Cruz Water Department
Heidi Luckenbach, Water Director
212 Locust Street, Ste A
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
[email protected]
To CONSULTANT:

Bartle Wells Associates
Erik Helgeson, Principal/Vice President
2625 Alcatraz Ave, #602
Berkeley, CA 94705
[email protected]
The Parties must provide notice of any changes to the above information in writing at least ten (10) business days before the change is effective.

25. Counterparts. The Parties may execute this 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.

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 representatives, agents, successors and assigns to comply with the provisions of this Agreement. [SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]

19.13 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 11
Approved As To Form:

By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Office of the City Attorney

CITY OF SANTA CRUZ
By: ______________________________ Date: _________________ Matt Huffaker,
City Manager

CITY OF SANTA CRUZ WATER DEPARTMENT
By: _____________________________ Date: _________________ Heidi Luckenbach,
Water Director
CONSULTANT: BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES
By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Printed: _________________________ Title: _________________________ By: _____________________________ Date: __________________ Printed: _________________________ Title: _________________________ 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 Technical Review By:

By: _____________________________ Date: ___________
Nick Kurns, Assistant Finance Director – Water Department

19.14 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 12
EXHIBIT A: SCOPE OF WORK

19.15 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 11
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
Section 3: Work Plan & Project Scope
This section presents a draft work plan and scope of services that we believe forms a sound basis for completing this assignment. Bartle Wells Associates will work with the project team to finalize a scope of services that meets the City’s objectives.

Our completed water rates study will provide a set of legally defensible documents that outline a comprehensive financial plan attainable through sound industry-standard recommendations for the City. Our methodology takes into account variable and fixed charges, different assumptions regarding future capital investments, recent court rulings, and Proposition 218. Assistance from the project team will be required to gather data and to provide feedback on developed recommendations during regularly scheduled progress calls.

TASK A. Project Initiation & Data Collection

1. Project Team Orientation
To initiate our work, hold a conference call or meeting with City staff and others as appropriate, to accomplish the following:
 Identify members of Staff, City Council, engineering consultants, and other consultants/advisors who will participate in the project.  Determine the roles and responsibilities of all project participants.  Identify other parties that may have a significant interest in the project, such as community groups, business organizations, and large customers.
 Establish project schedule and key milestone dates.
 Confirm the key goals and expectations of the project team.

BWA recommends holding the kickoff meeting after we have reviewed preliminary information.

This will enable the kickoff meeting to be more substantive and facilitate more in-depth discussion of key issues and preliminary observations and potential alternatives.

2. Investigation and Data Collection
Assemble the information necessary to understand finances, customers and usage, rate structures, and legal agreements with other agencies. Assistance and cooperation of Staff will be needed to assemble the relevant background information. The objectives of investigation and data collection are to develop a complete understanding of the enterprises and their finances, and to reach an agreement on basic assumptions to be used in the studies.

Task A – Project Initiation Deliverables Include:
 Project kickoff meeting
 Identification of project goals and objectives
 Project schedule
 Project team contact list
 Provide a list of data needs

19.16 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 12
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
TASK B. Long-Range Financial Plan

1. Develop Forecasts and Projections
Based on evaluation of the data assembled and input provided by Staff and other members of the project team, prepare forecasts and projections to be used in the development of financial projections. Develop projections for the following areas (and others as appropriate):

Capital Improvement Funding Needs: Identify latest capital improvement plan costs, including water supply projects, by year. Work with Staff to identify key alternatives for financial evaluation.

Based on input from Staff, determine a reasonable amount to include for future, ongoing capital repairs and replacements. BWA often recommends that agencies phase in funding for long-term system rehabilitation project as rates are gradually increased.

Water Demand, Supply, & Cost: With Staff input, forecast demand, future conservation projections, sources of supply, and the cost of water supply. Evaluate alternative water supply and cost scenarios as warranted. The demand analysis for the financial plan overlaps with the customer analysis for the cost allocation and rate design. We will look at the use and revenue by tier and the City’s exposure to demand variability. BWA’s approach is to work closely with the City to develop conservative demand projections.

Growth and Development/Redevelopment:

Evaluate historical growth trends and develop
appropriate and conservative assumption for future
development and redevelopment that can be
incorporated into the financial plan/rate model.

Evaluate impact of faster and slower growth rates.

Cost Escalation Factors: Review historical cost trends
and work with project team to develop reasonable
cost escalation factors for both operating and capital
expenditures. Work with Staff to estimate potential
new operating costs, such as new staffing projections
and O&M costs related to planned capital
improvements, or costs for complying with future
permit requirements.

Review projections with Staff for agreements on
assumptions, interpretation of data, and
completeness of approach.

2. Evaluate Financing Alternatives for Capital Improvements Evaluate options for financing proposed capital improvement projects. Our evaluation will:
• Estimate the amount and timing of any debt, if needed, to finance capital projects. • Evaluate the alternative borrowing methods available including bonds, COPs, state and federal funding programs, bank loans and lines of credit, and other options. • Recommend the appropriate type of debt and its term and structure (for financial planning purposes).

The 10-Year Financial Plan will
serve as a financial roadmap
for funding future operating
and capital programs while
supporting long-term financial
stability.

19.17 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 13
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
• Evaluate possible combinations of financing methods, such as prudent balance of pay-asyou-go cash funding supplemented by debt financing, when appropriate. • BWA acknowledges that the City is undertaking an ERP replacement project that may impact access to certain data.

3. Review and Update Fund Reserve Targets
Evaluate the adequacy of the City’s current fund reserves. As warranted, identify alternatives and update minimum fund reserve targets based on updated operating and capital funding projections. Develop an implementation plan for achieving and maintaining the recommended reserve fund levels.

4. Develop Long-Range Cash Flow Projections
BWA will develop long-term cash flow projections showing the financial position of the water utility over the next ten year period. The cash flows will project fund balance, revenues, expenses, and debt service coverage, and will incorporate the forecasts developed with Staff input, including funding needs for future repairs and replacements. After developing a base-case cash flow scenario, we can develop alternatives for additional evaluation such as capital project alternatives, project financing alternatives, the impacts of different levels of growth, and the impacts of various levels of demand. During this phase, BWA will work closely with the project team to develop financial and rate projections under alternative scenarios. BWA typically recommends that rate increases be phased-in over time to minimize the annual impact on ratepayers.

5. Evaluate Financial Scenarios & Rate Increase Options Based on the cash flow projections, determine the annual revenue requirements and project overall required rate increases. Evaluate the financial impact of various financial and rate adjustment alternatives, such as phasing in required rate increases over a number of years. If appropriate, develop a reduced rate alternative and evaluate impacts on the City’s ability to fund capital projects.

6. Meet with Staff and Ad-Hoc Committee to Discuss Findings & Gain Input Coordinate a meeting with Staff to discuss findings, alternatives, and preliminary recommendations. Receive input and revise alternatives and recommendations as appropriate.

7. Future Model Updates, Revenue Requirement Review and Rate Support (Optional) BWA is happy to work with the City during the 218-rate period to update the model, review revenue requirements and provide rate support.

Task B - 10-Year Financial Plan Deliverables Include:
 Evaluation of financing alternatives for capital improvements  Recommendation for minimum fund reserve targets
 Development of ten-year financial projections and alternatives  Identification of alternative rate increase scenarios

19.18 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 14
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
TASK C. Cost-of-Service Analysis & Rate Design

1. Review Existing Rates
Review the City’s existing rate structure and discuss advantages and disadvantages compared to other rate approaches. Summarize and discuss findings.

2. Conduct Rate Survey
Review and summarize rates of other regional and/or comparable agencies. Summarize results in easily understandable tables and/or charts.

3. Analyze Utility Consumption & Billing Data
Evaluate current and historical demand and utility billing data, and production data, to determine reasonable and conservative estimates of demand to use in developing rates and/or alternatives.

Demand can fluctuate from year to year depending on various factors such as weather and local and regional conservation efforts. Ideally, we would prefer to analyze three or more years of utility billing data in order to determine slightly conservative demand projections.

4. Identify Rate Structure Modifications & Alternatives Identify alternative rate structures or modifications to the City’s existing rates designed to improve equity and/or better achieve City objectives. Discuss pros and cons of different rate structure options and their general impacts on different types of customers. Rate structure options will be refined as the study progresses based on input from the City’s project team

5. Cost Allocation
Review and update cost allocations to ensure equity in
revenue recovery. Work with Staff to assess how
different customer classes benefit from current City
operations and projected operations with
implementation of the City’s long-range financial plan.

As appropriate, identify changes in methodology to
improve fairness and/or better reflect City objectives for revenue recovery.

6. Cost-of-Service Rate Derivation
Develop new rates based on a reasonable and
defensible cost-of-service methodology. This is the
“meat” of the rate study that will provide the legal
justification for the water rates and charges of the City.

BWA will allocate costs based on industry standard
practice, guidance from recent court cases, and ease of implementation/practicality. BWA will provide detailed, functional rate cost allocations for operating, capital, debt service, fixed and variable costs.

7. Develop Preliminary & Final Rate Recommendations
Based on the cost-of-service allocations and rate structure analysis, develop draft rate recommendations designed to achieve the revenue targets identified in the financial plan. The recommendations can include a multi-year phase in terms of both overall rate increases and proposed rate structure adjustments as appropriate.

Rates will be developed
based on a cost-of-service
approach designed to
equitably recover the cost
of providing service to all
customers.

19.19 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 15
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
Review preliminary recommendations and key alternatives with the City’s project team for input and refinement of recommendations. Final rate recommendations will be designed to:
a) fund the cost of providing service, including future operating and capital programs, b) achieve debt service coverage requirements and fund reserve targets, c) provide a prudent balance of revenue stability and conservation incentives, d) be fair and equitable to all customers,
e) be easy to implement and administer, and
f) comply with the substantive requirements of Proposition 218.

8. Evaluate Rate Impacts on Customers
Calculate the rate impacts of rate alternatives on a range of City customers (e.g. different customer classes, customers with different levels of use, etc.) Work with the project team to identify customer and usage profiles to use for calculating the rate impacts. Discuss additional rate structure adjustments that may reduce the impact on certain customers if warranted and/or requested by the project team. BWA will review affordability programs as part of the survey efforet.

9. Develop Drought Rates (Optional)
BWA can also develop drought rates. These rates will be designed to support financial stability during drought conditions, periods in which the City may experience a decrease in water revenues and potentially higher water supply and/or conservation program expenses. Drought rates can be phased in as conditions warrant and phased out as water use gradually returns to normal. Drought rates can be staged according to the City’s current Water Shortage Contingency Plan

10. Meet with Staff and Ad-Hoc Committee to Discuss Findings & Gain Input Coordinate a meeting with Staff to discuss findings, alternatives, and preliminary recommendations. Receive input and revise alternatives and recommendations as appropriate.

Task C – Rate Study Deliverables Include:
 Rate survey
 Analysis of utility billing data
 Identification of rate alternatives and their impacts on City customers  Preliminary findings and rate recommendations

19.20 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 16
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
TASK E. System Development Charge (Capacity) Charges (OPTIONAL)

1. Review Current Capacity Charges
Review the City’s existing water capacity charges as well as related policies and procedures. Work with Staff to identify objectives for new or modified capacity charges.

2. Conduct Survey of Regional Capacity Charges
Review and summarize capacity charges of other regional and comparable agencies. Summarize results in easily understandable tables and/or charts.

3. Evaluate Alternative Capacity Charge Methodologies
Identify and evaluate alternative methods for calculating capacity charges. Discuss advantages and disadvantages with the project team and determine a recommended approach. BWA often recommends that capacity charges recover costs for both existing and future facilities that benefit new development.

4. Determine Current Value and Capacity of Utility Assets Calculate the current value of the water assets. The current value of facilities can be calculated by adjusting the original or depreciated value of each facility or asset into current dollars using the Engineering News-Record Construction Cost Index, a widely-used measure of construction cost inflation.

5. Allocate Capital Program Costs to Current and Future Users Equitably allocate capital improvement costs to existing and future users based on input from City Staff and/or its consulting engineers. Some projects may entirely benefit one group while others will benefit both existing customers and provide new capacity for growth.

6. Develop Preliminary Recommendations for Capacity Charges Based on appropriate and technically sound methodology, recommend revisions to the current water capacity charges based on the data developed above. For water capacity fees look at basing the fees on water meter size, estimated water demand, or other appropriate method. Review fee for compliance with Government Code Section 66000 et. seq. (AB1600).

7. Recommend a Method for Future Capacity Charge Updates Recommend a method to annually or periodically adjust capacity charges so they keep aligned with future costs. For example, capacity charges can be adjusted annually based on the change in the Engineering News-Record’s Construction Cost Index, a widely used measure of construction cost inflation.

8. Prepare Draft and Final Reports
Develop a draft report summarizing study objectives, findings and draft recommendations. The report will provide an administrative record supporting the proposed capacity charges. The report will be written for a non-technical audience and will clearly explain the rationale for recommendations and key alternatives when applicable. Submit a draft report for City review and feedback. Incorporate input into a revised report and ultimately provide the City with electronic copies. Electronic copies of both the draft and final reports will be provided to the project team.

19.21 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 17
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
TASK F. Meetings & Presentations, Proposition 218, Reports

1. Project Team Meetings
Meet with the project team to present findings, discuss alternatives and their impacts, gain ongoing input, and develop and refine recommendations. BWA will participate in virtual conference calls as needed.

2. Ad-Hoc Committee Meetings
Beginning with a draft financial plan, meet with the Ad-Hoc Committee to present findings at critical steps of the process (draft financial plan, cost allocation and rate design), discuss alternatives and their impacts, gain ongoing input, and develop and refine recommendations. BWA will participate in virtual conference calls as needed.

3. In-Person Meetings
Meet with and present findings to City Council. Our proposal includes up to five (5) trips to the City.

The final schedule and number of meetings will be determined with input from the project team. Our preliminary in-person meetings schedule includes: one (1) presentation to joint meeting with the City Council and Water Commission to kick-off the project, one (1) presentation to Water Commission and the public, one (1) presentation to City Council and the public, one (1) additional presentation if needed, and one (1) public hearing conducted in accordance with the procedures outlined in Proposition 218. All in-person meetings are at the direction of the City and may be substituted for virtual meetings. Additional in-person meetings/workshops with committees and citizens groups, may also be included if approved by the City. Meetings can also be combined, e.g. community meetings can be scheduled on the same day as Council meetings, to reduce costs.

4. Public Education and Consensus-Building
Rate and fee adjustments are often controversial. BWA has extensive experience developing clear presentations that facilitate public understanding of the need for rate and fee increases. We understand the importance of building consensus and public acceptance for our recommendations and can assist staff in developing public education materials. Holding community workshops or open houses are effective tools to help the community understand the needs of the agency. BWA is always willing to support and attend additional community outreach meetings on a time and expense basis. BWA will support City staff and communication consultants with outreach efforts.

5. Compliance with Proposition 218
Proposition 218 establishes requirements for adopting or increasing property-related fees and charges. In July 2006, the California Supreme Court ruled that water and wastewater rates are subject to Proposition 218 (Articles XIIIC and XIIID of the State constitution). Proposition 218 requires that the District: 1) Mail notification of proposed rate increases and the date, time, and place of public hearing to all affected property owners; 2) Hold a public hearing not less than 45 days after the notices are mailed; and 3) Subject the rate increases to majority protest; if more than 50% of property owners submit written protests, the proposed rate increases cannot be adopted.

BWA remains available to assist staff with drafting the Proposition 218 rate notice in coordination with involvement from City Attorney's office.

19.22 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 18
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal

6. Prepare Draft & Final Reports
Develop a draft report summarizing study objectives, findings and draft recommendations. The report will provide an administrative record supporting the proposed utility rates. The report will be written for a nontechnical audience and will clearly explain the rationale for recommendations and key alternatives when applicable. Submit a draft report for City review and feedback. Incorporate input into a revised report and ultimately provide the City with an electronic copy. The report will be provided in PDF format and can also be provided in editable Word and Excel files.

19.23 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 13
EXHIBIT B: FEE SCHEDULE

19.24 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 23
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
Section 6: Cost Proposal
Provided below is a draft breakdown of the proposed project budget by task. Optional tasks are included for consideration by the City but will not be performed without prior City approval. We remain available to work with the City to refine the scope and budget to meet the City’s objectives and expectations.

Erik Helgeson Alex Handlers Juana Espinoza Total Project Principal Technical Advisor Consultant Hours Cost
$285 $285 $170
Task A. Project Initiation & Data Collection 15 5 25 45 $9,950

1. Project Team Orientation / Kickoff Meeting

2. Investigation & Data Collection
Task B. Long-Range Financial Plan 80 15 120 215 $47,475

1. Develop Forecasts and Projections

2. Evaluate Financing Alternatives for Capital Improvements

3. Establish Prudent Financial Planning Fund Reserve Targets

4. Develop 10-Year Financial Projections & Evaluate Scenarios

5. Evaluate Rate Increases Options
Task C. Cost-of-Service Analysis & Rate Design 90 20 170 280 $60,250

1. Identify Rate Structure Alternatives

2. Conduct Survey of Regional Utility Rates

3. Analyze Consumption & Utility Billing Data

4. Cost of Service Rate Derivation

5. Develop Preliminary & Final Rate Recommendations with City Input

6. Evaluate Rate Impacts & Review/Update Low Income Discount Task D. Drought Rates (OPTIONAL) 20 5 45 70 $14,775

1. Investigation & Data Collection

2. Develop Forecasts and Projections

3. Evaluate Rate Increases Options

4. Identify Rate Structure Alternatives

5. Analyze Consumption & Utility Billing Data

6. Develop Preliminary & Final Rate Recommendations with City Input

7. Evaluate Rate Impacts
Task E. Capacity Charges (OPTIONAL) 40 5 60 105 $23,025

1. Review Current Capacity Fees & Procedures

2. Capacity Fee Survey

3. Evaluate Alternative Fee Methodologies

4. Determine Value & Capacity of Existing Assets

5. Allocate Capital Program Costs to Current & Future Users

6. Develop Preliminary & Final Fee Recommendations

7. Prepare Draft & Final Reports
Task F. Meetings, Reports, and Prop 218 80 15 100 195 $44,075

1. Virtual Progress Meeting as needed

2. Up to 3 in-person meetings

3. Proposition 218 Rate Notice

4. Prepare Draft & Final Reports
Note: All meetings reflect costs for BWA attendance in - person.

TOTAL ESTIMATED HOURS (CORE TASKS) 265 55 415 735 $161,750 TOTAL ESTIMATED HOURS (INCLUDING OPTIONAL) 325 65 520 910 $199,550

WATER RATE STUDY PROJECT TASKS

19.25 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 24
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal

AVAILABILITY & FEES

1. Bartle Wells Associates is prepared to begin work upon authorization to proceed.

2. During the project development period, Bartle Wells Associates will be available at all reasonable times and on reasonable notice for meetings and for consultation with staff, attorneys, consulting engineers, and others as necessary.

3. Bartle Wells Associates will perform all work related to the assignment. Erik Helgeson, a firm Vice – President and Principal-in-Charge, will be assigned as project manager on this assignment. He will serve as the lead contact person for BWA and will be involved with the project on a day-to-day basis.

Erik will be assisted by Juana Espinoza, project consultant. This project team may be assisted by other BWA analysts as needed.

4. Fees for services outlined in this proposal are based on the following assumptions:
a. All necessary information will be provided by the City in a timely manner. b. Development of a draft, final draft, and final versions of tables, presentations, and reports. Time and expenses involved in revising tables and assumptions may constitute additional services if not achievable within the budget.
c. Up to five (5) trips to the City for in-person meetings and/or presentations. Additional meetings or presentations may constitute additional services if not achievable within the budget.

5. Progress payments and direct expenses are payable monthly on a time and materials basis as the work proceeds as provided in our Billing Rate Schedule 2025, which will remain in effect through the duration of this assignment.

6. Bartle Wells Associates will maintain in force, during the full term of the assignment, insurance as provided in the Certificate of Insurance attached.

7. In addition to the services provided under this proposal, Bartle Wells Associates may be authorized to perform additional services for which we will be compensated on a time and materials basis according to our Billing Rate Schedule. Additional services may include, but are not limited to additional meetings or presentations, substantial changes in project scope, and other services.

8. For the services in this proposal, Bartle Wells Associates is serving as a utility rate and finance consultant, but is not serving in the capacity as a Municipal Advisor regarding the issuance of debt.

Any regulated Municipal Advisory activity would need to be authorized via a separate agreement.

9. If the project is terminated for any reason, Bartle Wells Associates is to be reimbursed for professional services and direct expenses incurred up to the time we receive notification of such termination.

10. We will not require a formal contract of employment and will consider a letter or email from an appropriate official as sufficient authority to proceed.

11. This proposal may be withdrawn or amended if not accepted within 90 days of its date.

19.26 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 25
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal

BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES
BILLING RATE SCHEDULE 2025
Rates Effective 1/1/2025
Professional Services
Financial Analyst I ................................................................................................. $130 per hour Financial Analyst II ................................................................................................$150 per hour Associate Consultant.............................................................................................$170 per hour Consultant ............................................................................................................$195 per hour Senior Consultant..................................................................................................$220 per hour Project Manager/Technical Expert .......................................................................$250 per hour Principal Consultant .............................................................................................$285 per hour The hourly rates for professional services include all overhead and indirect expenses. Bartle Wells Associates does not charge for administrative support services. Expert witness, legal testimony, or other special limited assignments will be billed at one and one-half times the consultant’s hourly rate.

The above rates will remain in effect through December 31, 2025, at which point they will be subject to adjustment.

Direct Expenses
Subconsultants will be billed at cost plus ten percent. Other reimbursable direct expenses incurred on behalf of the agency will be billed at cost plus ten percent. These reimbursable costs include, but are not limited to:
 Travel, meals, lodging  Automobile mileage
 Printing and photocopying  Messenger services and mailing costs  Special statistical analysis  Graphic design and photography  Outside computer services  Special legal services
 Bond ratings  Legal advertisements
Insurance
Bartle Wells Associates maintains insurance in the amounts and coverage as provided in the attached schedule of insurance. Additional or special insurance, licensing, or permit requirements beyond what is shown on the schedule of insurance are billed in addition to the contract amount.

Payment
Fees are typically billed monthly or bi-monthly for the preceding work period and are due and payable within 30 days of the date of the invoice. A late charge of 1.0 percent per month may be applied to balances unpaid after 60 days.

19.27 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 14
EXHIBIT C: WORK SCHEDULE

19.28 BARTLE WELLS ASSOCIATES Page 22
City of Santa Cruz – Water Rate Study Proposal
Section 5: Schedule
Provided below is a draft timeframe for completion of the Project. BWA will work with the City to develop a final schedule designed to meet the City’s objectives. BWA has the capacity to complete the projected on a compressed timeline if necessary.

PROJECT TASK

JUL-AUG
2025

SEP-OCT
2025

NOV-DEC
2025

JAN-FEB
2026

MAR-APR
2026

MAY-JUN
2026

JUL-AUG
2026

SEP-OCT
2026

NOV-DEC
2026
Project Kickoff & Data Collection
Develop Long-Range Financial Plan
Cost of Service Analysis & Rate Design
Drought Rates (OPTIONAL)
Capacity Charges (OPTIONAL)
Prepare Rate Study Reports & Presentations
Water Commission Meetings
Ad Hoc Committee
City Council Meeting
Prop. 218 Notice Period & Public Hearing

19.29 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 15
EXHIBIT D: 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, or subcontractors.

19.30 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 16
• 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.

For Data Security and Privacy Liability

1. Consultant shall maintain one or more insurance policies - Privacy, Technology and Data Security Liability, Cyber Liability, or Technology Professional Liability Insurance coverage in the amount of $5,000,000 per occurrence or claim, $5,000,000 aggregate. Coverage shall be sufficiently broad to respond to the duties and obligations undertaken by Consultant in this contract.

2. The policy(ies) shall include coverage for claims involving security breach, system failure, data recovery, business interruption, cyber extortion, social engineering, infringement of intellectual property, including but not limited to infringement of copyright, trademark, trade dress, invasion of privacy violations, information theft, damage to or destruction of electronic information, release of private information, and alteration of electronic information.

3. The policy(ies) shall provide coverage for breach response costs as well as regulatory fines and penalties as well as credit monitoring expenses with limits sufficient to respond to these obligations.

4. The policy(ies) shall include, or be endorsed to include, property damage liability coverage for damage to, alteration of, loss of, or destruction of electronic data and/or information “property” of the City in the care, custody, or control of the Consultant.

C. OTHER INSURANCE PROVISIONS
The insurance policies are to comply with the following provisions:
• ADDITIONAL INSURED STATUS
The City, its officers, officials, employees, agents, 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 Consultant including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations, products and completed 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).
o PRIMARY COVERAGE
For any claims related to this Agreement, Consultant’s and all subcontractor’s insurance coverage will be primary and non-contributory 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 and all subcontractor’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

19.31 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 17
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, 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 Consultant’s primary and excess liability policies are exhausted. • DURATION OF COVERAGE
CGL & Excess Liability/Umbrella policies for any construction related work, including, but not limited to, maintenance, service, or repair work, shall continue coverage for a minimum of 5 years for Completed Operations liability coverage. Such Insurance must be maintained, and evidence of insurance must be provided, for at least five (5) years after completion of the contract of work. • SELF-INSURED RETENTIONS (SIR)
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.

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.

19.32 City of Santa Cruz Professional Services Agreement for Financial Planning and Water Rate Study
August 2025 Page 18
copies of all required insurance policies, including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time.

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.

19.33 s

WATER DEPARTMENT

MEMORANDUM
DATE: 08/08/2025
TO: Elizabeth Millwee, Purchasing Manager

FROM: Nick Kurns, Assistant Finance Director – Water Department SUBJECT: Single Source Justification – Cost of Service Analysis and Water Rate Study (Bartle Wells Associates)
Background
The City of Santa Cruz Water Department last implemented a water rate increase in 2021. Since then, the Department’s overall debt burden has increased significantly due to the issuance of the $127.73 M Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) federal loan and loans of $45.9 M and $41.352 M from the State Water Resources Control Board - Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to fund critical capital investments. As a result, the Department currently does not meet the Additional Bonds Test (ABT), which is required to issue additional debt. To restore financial flexibility and ensure the continued delivery of safe and reliable water service, a revised rate structure and higher net revenues are urgently required.

A timely, technically robust cost of service analysis and water rate study are critical to implementing new rates and generating the required net revenues to meet long-term infrastructure needs.

Reason for Non-competitive Agreement
Bartle Wells Associates (BWA) was recently selected through a competitive process conducted by the City’s Public Works Department, with participation from Water Department staff, for financial planning and rate design services. The Water Department actively participated in the selection process, during which BWA demonstrated a clear understanding of our utility environment and rate setting in the context of Proposition 218. Since that time, BWA has developed familiarity with the City’s financial models, billing systems, and policy environment.

Retaining BWA for the water rate study ensures continuity, reduces onboarding time, and avoids duplicating recent work – saving both time and cost. Given the urgency of the Department’s financial position and the consultant’s qualifications and recent successful performance, a noncompetitive agreement with BWA is warranted and strategically sound.

Price Reasonableness

19.34 BWA’s proposed cost of $199,950 is well justified for several reasons. The not-to-exceed cost is lower than the $281,620 amount paid for similar services in 2020, indicating cost stability over time. BWA was recently selected as the top-ranked proposer in a competitive RFP process for wastewater financial planning services, further confirming the competitiveness of their pricing and qualifications. BWA’s 2025 billing rate increases for the proposed positions range from 4- 8% since the prior year which is typical for consulting firms. Given the urgent need for these services, the Water Department finds BWA’s proposed cost is fair, reasonable, and represents a strong value to the City.

Position
2024
Rates
2025
Rates
Percent
Change
Financial Analyst I $120 $130 8%
Financial Analyst II $140 $150 7%
Associate Consultant $160 $170 6%
Consultant $180 $195 8%
Senior Consultant $210 $220 5%
Project
Manager/Technical expert $240 $250 4%
Principal Consultant $270 $285 6%

19.35 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-18

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AMENDING CHAPTER 24.04.160 “LIFE OF PERMIT” OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ MUNICIPAL

CODE TO EXTEND THE DURATION OF CERTAIN COMMERCIAL USE PERMITS THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2030
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Cruz continues to advance the goals of its Economic Development Strategy, including revitalizing and reoccupying vacant commercial spaces throughout the City; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic, subsequent economic disruptions, and shifting commercial market conditions have contributed to prolonged vacancies and economic uncertainty for small businesses seeking to activate existing commercial spaces; and WHEREAS, Municipal Code section 24.04.160 currently limits the life of most use permits to thirty-six (36) months from approval, and further provides for expiration if a permitted use ceases for six (6) consecutive months, regardless of intent to abandon; and WHEREAS, in both 2009 and 2022, the City Council previously adopted time-limited extensions of permit validity in response to economic hardship and public emergency conditions; and
WHEREAS, the City Council now desires to further facilitate business retention and reactivation of vacant commercial tenant spaces by extending the life of all commercial use permits that were valid at any time from January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2026, through January 1, 2030, unless otherwise extended; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed this ordinance at a duly noticed public hearing on July 17, 2025 and recommended approval; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this ordinance is consistent with the City’s General Plan, Local Coastal Program, and the public health, safety, and welfare of the community, as further detailed in the associated staff reports.

BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz as follows:

SECTION 1. Chapter 24.04.160 “Life of Permit” is hereby amended to read as follows:
“24.04.160 LIFE OF PERMIT.

1. Expiration.
a. Each approved permit shall expire and become null and void thirty-six months from the date on which it is approved, unless exercised; a lesser time period may be specified.

A relocation permit shall be exercised within six months.

20.1 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-18
2 b. An approved permit applies to the subject property and runs with the land. Once exercised, an approved permit remains effective unless terminated or modified and remains effective even if the subject property is rezoned. c. An approved permit is transferable to any future owner of the subject property. d. Any modification to projects involving a coastal permit shall be found consistent with the certified Local Coastal Plan and shall follow the notice of final action procedures included in Section 24.08.260.
e. Any use permit which has been exercised shall expire and become void where the use has ceased for a period of six consecutive months, whether or not it is the intent to abandon said use.
f. Notwithstanding subparagraph e., above, all active commercial use permits as of January 1, 2019, and those approved up to and including December 31, 2026, shall have the life of the permit automatically extended to January 1, 2030, unless otherwise extended by the City Council. This extension shall not apply to residential or mixeduse permits, nor to any permits that were revoked or expired prior to January 1, 2019.

SECTION 2. This ordinance shall take effect and be in force thirty (30) days after final adoption, except for application within the Coastal Zone, where the ordinance shall take effect only upon certification by the California Coastal Commission.

SECTION 3. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.

SECTION 4. CEQA. The City Council finds that the proposed ordinance amendments fall within the analyzed development potential in the City’s existing 2030 General Plan Environmental Impact Report, as they are intended to fully implement the adopted General Plan Land Use maps and policies. The proposed amendments would not result in increased densities or intensification of uses; rather, these proposed amendments will allow for the extension of permits for existing or approved uses. The proposed amendments are also exempt from CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) as the amendments themselves do not change the approved underlying use, only the extension of the approved use permit. In addition, the ordinance qualifies for the commonsense exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment.

20.2 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-18
3 PASSED FOR PUBLICATION this 26th day of August, 2025, by the following vote:

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: Councilmember Newsome.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator
PASSED FOR FINAL ADOPTION this XX day of XX, 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. 2025-18 and that
it has been published or posted in
accordance with the Charter of the
City of Santa Cruz.
________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

20.3 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:

September 3, 2025
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.

This 3rd day of September, 2025, Santa Cruz, California ____________________________
Julia Wood
Deputy City Clerk Administrator

20.4 DECLARATION OF POSTING

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) SS.

COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ )
On the 2nd day of September, 2025, I posted conspicuously in three public places within the City of Santa Cruz, Ordinance No. 2025-18, 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—3.

I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed this 2nd day of September, 2025, in Santa Cruz, California.
_______________________________
Julia Wood
Deputy City Clerk Administrator

20.5 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ AMENDING CHAPTER 18.15 -

ENERGY CODE, ADOPTING LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, PART 6 OF THE CALIFORNIA BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND FIRE

PREVENTION CODE
WHEREAS, The State of California has a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045; and WHEREAS, The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has introduced zero-emission appliance standards with a phased implementation beginning in 2027 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, with an expectation that all new space and water heaters sold in California meet zero-emission standards by 2030; and WHEREAS, The City adopted its Climate Action Plan 2030 (CAP 2030) in 2022 with a legal target to reduce emissions 40% from 1990 levels by 2030 and an aspirational target of carbon neutrality by 2035, 10 years earlier than the State target; and WHEREAS, The CAP 2030 contains three measures related to existing building energy use which accounts for 24% of greenhouse gas emissions regulated by CARB, including Measure BE-2, to electrify 31% of existing residential buildings by 2030 and 53% by 2035; Measure BE3, to electrify 26% of existing commercial buildings by 2030 and 45% by 2035; and Measure BE5 is to increase resiliency through equitable energy efficiency and local solar programs; and WHEREAS, in June 2012, the City adopted its General Plan, which includes but is not limited to Goal NRC4 —“Effective leadership and action in reducing and responding to global warming”— which, together with Policy NRC4.1, obligates the City to trim community-wide GHG emissions 30 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050; NRC4.1.4, which calls for the continued expansion of municipal energy-efficiency programs to lower building energy use; and Goal NRC7, which seeks a “reduction in energy use, and significant production and use of renewable energy,” while Policy NRC7.1.4 requires all new development to provide passive heating/cooling design and solar-ready site orientation; and WHEREAS, Considering that 96% of the City's building stock is residential and 87% of residential buildings are single family homes older than 1978, large renovations are one of the best opportunities to make improvements to single family homes resulting in reduced energy use and emissions and improved comfort and satisfaction; and
WHEREAS, Public Resources Code Section 25402.1(h)(2) allows local agencies to adopt local amendments that are cost-effective and that require greater energy reduction/conservation than the California Energy Code; and
WHEREAS, the California Energy Codes and Standards Statewide Utility Program, has determined specific modifications to the 2025 State Energy Code for each climate zone that are cost-effective; and that such modifications will result in designs that consume less energy than they would under the 2025 State Energy Code; and

21.1 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
2 WHEREAS, staff has reviewed the "2024 Existing Building Cost-Effectiveness Study" and associated data, and find them sufficient to illustrate compliance with the requirements set forth under California Administrative Code Chapter 10-106; and WHEREAS, based on these studies, the City finds the proposed local amendments to the 2025 California Energy Code to be cost-effective and consume less energy than permitted by Title 24, Part 6; and
WHEREAS, the 2025 California Energy Code offers compliance options that were established through the public rulemaking process of the code update; and WHEREAS, pursuant to California Health & Safety Code § 17958.7, the Council expressly declares that the proposed amendments to the Energy Code are reasonably necessary because of local climatic, topological, and geological conditions as set forth in Section 2 of this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the requirements specified in this Ordinance were reviewed via public comment and through a publicly noticed public hearing process; and WHEREAS, that, pursuant to the Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2) and Section 10-106 of the 2025 California Administrative Code, the City Council of the City of Santa Cruz finds and determines the following: (1) The locally adopted energy efficiency standards contained in this ordinance are cost-effective, and (2) the efficiency standards in this ordinance will require buildings to be designed to consume less energy compared to the 2025 California Energy Code; and
WHEREAS, The municipal code amendments are consistent with the Negative Declaration approved for the City of Santa Cruz 2030 Climate Action Plan adopted by City Council on September 13, 2022, and therefore, no further environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is required; the amendments are exempt from CEQA under the general rule, 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that the provisions contained herein would not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment; and, this ordinance is exempt per CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, Class 8, Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of Natural Resources, since the proposed ordinance would institute regulatory requirements intended to protect the environment and natural resources; and WHEREAS, the changes pursuant to this ordinance will go into effect on January 1, 2026.

BE IT ORDAINED By the City of Santa Cruz as follows:

Section 1 Incorporation of Recitals. The foregoing recitals are found to be true and correct, and are incorporated by this reference into this action; Section 2 Findings.
(a) Pursuant to the Public Resources Code section 25402.1(h)(2) and Section 10-106

21.2 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
3 of the 2025 California Administrative Code, City Council finds and determines the following: (1) The locally adopted energy efficiency standards contained in this ordinance are cost-effective, and (2) the efficiency standards in this ordinance will require buildings to be designed to consume less energy compared to the 2025 California Energy Code.
(b) The Council finds and declares that the unique characteristics of the topographic, geologic, and climatic conditions found in the City of Santa Cruz make the local amendments to the 2025 California Energy Code reasonable and necessary, and adopts the following findings of fact in support of the changes or modification contained herein:
(i) The City of Santa Cruz’s northern and western neighborhoods abut the Santa Cruz Mountains, creating a wildland-urban interface and heightened fire risk.

The 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire showed that large, fast-moving wildfires can reach these areas. Cutting local greenhouse-gas pollution is a practical way to lessen the frequency and intensity of future fires. (ii) Since 2021 the City has faced several destructive flood events. A late-January 2021 atmospheric-river storm triggered debris-flow, causing evacuations.

Between December 30, 2022, and January 18, 2023, several atmospheric rivers overtopped the San Lorenzo River, damaged downtown levees and coastal infrastructure. Finally, a powerful winter storm in December 2024 partially collapsed the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, leading Governor Newsom to issue an emergency proclamation on February 14, 2025. These recent disasters underscore that greenhouse-gas emissions are amplifying flood hazards.

Accordingly, more restrictive local Energy Code measures are reasonably necessary to safeguard public health, safety, and welfare. (iii)In January 2023, successive atmospheric-river storms overwhelmed the Coast Pump Station on the San Lorenzo River, ruptured the Newell Creek Pipeline, the city’s lone conduit from Loch Lomond Reservoir to the Graham Hill Water Treatment Plant, and pushed raw-water turbidity at the plant to its highest level on record. These escalating, climate-linked disruptions to critical infrastructure make the Ordinance’s stricter local Energy Code requirements a necessary safeguard for public health, safety, and welfare.
(iv)Santa Cruz occupies a narrow marine terrace bounded by 15- to 30-foot mudstone cliffs along West Cliff Drive and the San Lorenzo River. This layout channels storm waves onto easily eroded bluffs and funnels runoff into downtown, as seen when the January 2023 bomb-cyclone washed out parts of West Cliff and a December 2023 surge increased damages to over $30 million.

The City’s Local Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan (2025-2030) ranks these cliffs and the river plain as high-risk for erosion, liquefaction, and quake impacts. To slow erosion, temper storm intensity, and protect key corridors, stricter Energy Code measures that curb greenhouse-gas emissions

21.3 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
4 are essential.
(v) Given the unique geological, topographical, and climatic characteristics of Santa Cruz, failure to address and substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions creates an increased risk to the health, safety, and welfare of City residents.
(c) The standards imposed by this Ordinance are necessary because they directly advance General Plan 2030 directives that require Santa Cruz to cut greenhousegas emissions and improve building energy performance. Goal NRC4 —“Effective leadership and action in reducing and responding to global warming”— together with Policy NRC4.1, obligates the City to trim community-wide GHG emissions 30 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050. Policy NRC4.1.4 calls for the continued expansion of municipal energy-efficiency programs to lower building energy use.

Complementing these targets, Goal NRC7 seeks a “reduction in energy use, and significant production and use of renewable energy,” while Policy NRC7.1.4 requires all new development to provide passive heating/cooling design and solarready site orientation. Implementing more restrictive local Energy Code measures through this Ordinance is therefore reasonably necessary to align with the General Plan’s adopted climate and energy objectives.
(d) The Energy Code amendments are needed to implement General Plan 2030, adopted before June 10, 2025, which commits Santa Cruz to cut community-wide emissions 30 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050 (Policy NRC4.1). The plan calls for continual expansion of municipal energy-efficiency programs (Policy NRC4.1.4) and requires new development to provide passive heating/cooling and solar-ready orientation (Policy NRC7.1.4). The Ordinance keeps the federally protected option for mixed-fuel residences but sets performance rules that make allelectric construction the easiest path to compliance, directly advancing the General Plan’s greenhouse-gas reduction strategy under Health & Safety Code § 17958.7.

Section 3 Severability. If any word, phrase, sentence part, section, subsection or other portion of this amendment or any application thereof to any person or circumstance is declared void, unconstitutional, or invalid for any reason, then such word, phrase, sentence, part, section, subsection, or other portion, or the prescribed application thereof, shall be severable, and the remaining provisions of this amendment, and all applications thereof, not having been declared void, unconstitutional or invalid, shall remain in full force and effect.

Section 4 CEQA. This ordinance is categorically exempt from CEQA because it is an action taken by a regulatory agency for the purpose of protecting the environment (CEQA Guidelines Section 15308). In addition, this ordinance is exempt from CEQA under the general rule, 15061(b)(3), on the grounds that these standards are more stringent than the State energy standards, there are no reasonably foreseeable adverse impacts, and there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. The following findings are made in support of these determinations:

21.4 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
5 i) The purpose of the implementation of a Reach Code is to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions in the City that are produced from buildings. ii) The Reach Code approval process requires that the City determines that the local standards will require buildings to be designed to consume less energy than current statewide requirements. Furthermore, the California Energy Commission approval process requires that the City make the findings as part of its approval process.

Therefore, the Reach Code standards can only go into effect if they protect the environment by making buildings more efficient.

Section 5 Section 18.15.040 of Chapter 18.15 of the Santa Cruz Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows:

18.050.040 ENERGY CODE — MODIFICATIONS.

The following sections of the code as adopted in Section 18.15.030 are hereby modified as follows:

Section 100.1(b) of the CEnC is amended to add the following:

MAJOR ADDITION is any change to an existing building that increases conditioned floor area by 350 or more square feet in a one-year period.

MAJOR ALTERATION is any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than a repair whose altered components cover 350 or more square feet in a one-year period. A project that consists only of roof and/or fenestration replacement is not considered a major alteration.

Section 130.0 of the CEnC is amended to read as follows:
a) The design and installation of all lighting systems and equipment in nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings, outdoor lighting, and electrical power distribution systems within the scope of Section 100.0(a), shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 130.0 through 130.6.

Subchapter 4 of the CEnC is amended to add Section 130.6 to be numbered, entitled, and to read as follows:
130.6 Electric Readiness Requirements for Systems Using Gas or Propane Where nonresidential systems using gas or propane are installed, construction drawings shall indicate electrical infrastructure and physical space accommodating the future installation of an electric heating appliance by including the following, as certified by a registered design professional or licensed electrical contractor:
a) Branch circuit wiring, electrically isolated and designed to serve all electric heating

21.5 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
6 appliances in accordance with manufacturer requirements and the California Electrical Code, including the appropriate voltage, phase, minimum amperage, and an electrical receptacle or junction box within five feet of the appliance that is accessible with no obstructions. Appropriately sized conduit may be installed in lieu of conductors.
b) Labeling of both ends of the unused conductors or conduit that includes the terms “For Future Electrical Appliance.”
c) Reserved circuit breakers in the electrical panel for each branch circuit, appropriately labeled (e.g., "Reserved for Future Electric Range"), and positioned on the opposite end of the panel supply conductor connection. d) Connected subpanels, panelboards, switchboards, busbars, and transformers that are sized to serve the future electric heating appliances. The electrical capacity requirements shall be adjusted for demand factors in accordance with the California Electric Code.
e) Physical space for future electric heating appliances, including equipment footprint, and if needed, a pathway reserved for routing of ductwork to heat pump evaporator(s), all of which shall be depicted on the construction drawings. The footprint necessary for future electric heating appliances may overlap with nonstructural partitions and with the location of currently designed gas-fueled equipment.

Section 150.0 of the CEnC is amended as follows:

Single-family residential buildings shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 150(a) through 150.0(w).

NOTE: The requirements of Sections 150.0 (a) through (v) apply to newly constructed buildings. Sections 150.2(a) and 150.2(b) specify which requirements of Sections 150.0(a) through 150.0(r) also apply to additions or alterations. Major Additions, Major Alterations, or combinations shall also be required to comply with Section 150.0(w). The City of Santa Cruz amendments to sections 150.0 (t) do not apply to additions or alterations or the following types of new construction statewide exemption accessory dwelling units:

1. One accessory dwelling unit per lot with a proposed single-unit building, including a single-family dwelling, or a townhome, or a detached residential condominium or apartment unit on a lot with multiple single-unit buildings, if all of the following apply:
i. The accessory dwelling unit is within the proposed space of a single-unit building.
ii. The accessory dwelling unit has an exterior entrance separate from that of the primary dwelling unit.

21.6 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
7 iii. The side and rear setbacks are sufficient for fire and safety.

2. One detached, new construction accessory dwelling unit per lot that meets the following standards:
i. The accessory dwelling unit shall be located on a lot with a proposed or existing single-unit building, including a single-family dwelling, or a townhome, or a detached residential condominium or apartment unit on a site with multiple single-unit buildings.
ii. The accessory dwelling unit size shall not exceed 800 square feet in floor area. iii. Interior side yard and rear yard setbacks shall be at least four feet. iv. The accessory dwelling unit shall meet one of the following height limitations as measured to the roof peak:

1. A height of 16 feet; or

2. A height of 18 feet if the accessory dwelling unit is on a lot within one-half of one mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of the Public Resources Code. This height can be increased an additional two feet to twenty feet to accommodate a roof pitch on the accessory dwelling unit that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.

3. One junior accessory dwelling unit per lot zoned to allow single-family dwellings and within the walls of a proposed single-unit building, including a single-family dwelling, townhome, or detached residential condominium or apartment unit on a lot with multiple detached single-unit dwellings.
(a)-(v): Subsections 150.0(a) - (s) are adopted without modification. (t) Heat pump space heater ready. Systems using a gas or propane furnace to serve individual dwelling units shall include the following:

1. A dedicated 240-volt branch circuit wiring shall be installed within 3 feet from the furnace and accessible to the furnace with no obstructions. The branch circuit conductors shall be rated at 30 amps minimum. The blank cover shall be identified as "240V ready." All electrical components shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.

2. The main electrical service panel shall have a reserved space to allow for the installation of a double pole circuit breaker for a future heat pump space heater installation. The reserved space shall be permanently marked as "For Future 240V

21.7 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
8 use."

3. A designated exterior location for a future heat pump compressor unit with either a drain or natural drainage for condensate and adequate space to maintain the equipment in accordance with California Mechanical Code 304.1 & California Electrical Code 110.26.

Section 150.0(w) is added to read as follows:
(w)Mandatory Requirements for Existing Building Additions and Alterations. Existing Building Additions and Alterations shall meet the requirements of Items 1 through 3 below, as applicable:

1. Major addition. Any major addition shall require installation of a set of measures from the Measure Menu Table, Table 150.0-I to achieve a total score that is equal to or greater than 9. In addition, all mandatory measures listed in Table 150.0-I shall be installed. Measure verification shall be explicitly included as an addendum to the Certificate of Compliance to be filed pursuant to 2025 Title 24 Section 10-103.

Installed measures shall meet the specifications in Table 150.0-J.

2. Major alteration. Any major alteration shall require installation of a set of measures from the Measure Menu Table, Table 150.0-I to achieve a total score that is equal to or greater than 9. In addition, all mandatory measures listed in Table 150.0-I shall be installed. Measure verification shall be explicitly included as an addendum to the Certificate of Compliance to be filed pursuant to 2025 Title 24 Section 10-103. Installed measures shall meet the specifications in Table 150.0-J.

3. Combination alterations and additions. Any project that includes an addition and alteration whose altered components cover 350 square feet or greater shall require installation of a set of measures from the Measure Menu Table, Table 150.0-I to achieve a total score that is equal to or greater than 9. In addition, all mandatory measures listed in Table 150.0-1 shall be installed. Measure verification shall be explicitly included as an addendum to the Certificate of Compliance to be filed pursuant to 2025 Title 24 Section 10-103. Installed measures shall meet the specifications in Table 150.0-J.

4. Water heating system electric readiness. Any project that includes a major addition, major alteration, or combination alteration and addition that requires water heating system electric readiness shall meet the requirements of section 150.0 (n)1:

Exception 1 to Section 150.0(w): The project is the result of a repair as defined by Title 24 Part 2 Section 202.

Exception 2 to Section 150.0(w): If compliance costs exceed 20% of total project valuation or due to conditions specific to the project, it is technically

21.8 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
9 infeasible to achieve compliance through any available set of measures, the applicant may request an exemption as set forth below. In applying for an exemption, the burden is on the applicant to show hardship or infeasibility.

1. Application. Based on the following, the applicant shall identify in writing the specific requirements of the standards for compliance that the project is unable to achieve and the circumstances that make it a hardship or infeasible for the project to comply with this chapter. The applicant may not petition for relief from any requirement of the 2025 California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) and referenced standards, or the 2025 California Green Building Standards (Title 24, Part 11) of the California Building Standards Code. Circumstances that constitute hardship or infeasibility shall include one of the following:
i. That the cost of achieving compliance is disproportionate to the overall cost of the project;
ii. That it is technically infeasible to achieve compliance through all packages due to conditions specific to the project; That strict compliance with these standards would create or maintain a hazardous condition(s) and present a life safety risk to the occupants.

2. Granting of exemption. If the chief building official determines that it is a hardship or infeasible for the applicant to fully meet the requirements of this chapter and that granting the requested exemption will not cause the building to fail to comply with the 2025 California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) and referenced standards, or the 2025 California Green Building Standards (Title 24, Part 11) of the California Building Standards Code, the chief building official shall determine the minimum feasible threshold of compliance reasonably achievable for the project. If an exemption is granted, the applicant shall be required to comply with this chapter in all other respects and shall be required to achieve the threshold of compliance determined to be achievable by the chief building official.

3. Denial of exemption. If the chief building official determines that it is reasonably possible for the applicant to fully meet the requirements of this chapter, the request shall be denied, and the applicant shall be notified of the decision in writing. The project and compliance documentation shall be modified to comply with the standards for compliance.
a. Appeal. Any aggrieved applicant or person may appeal the determination of the chief building official regarding the granting or denial of an exemption or compliance with any other provision of this chapter. An appeal of a determination of the chief building official shall be filed in writing with the Board of Building and Fire Appeals.

Exception 3 to Section 150.0(w): If the dwelling unit has previously installed

21.9 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
10 measures from the Measure Menu, Table 150.0-1, and compliance can be demonstrated to the building official, then these measures shall not be required to be newly installed, and appropriate credit shall be included in the applicable compliance calculations.

Exception 4 to Section 150.0(w): The applicant may request an exemption to any requirements of this chapter which would impair the historic integrity of any building listed on a local, state, or federal register of historic structures, as determined by the Planning Director or designee and as regulated by the California Historic Building Code (Title 24, Part 8). In making a determination of exemption, the Planning Director or designee may require the submittal of an evaluation by an architectural historian or similar expert.

Exception 5 to Section 150.0(w): An alteration that consists solely of seismic safety improvements.

Exception 6 to Section 150.0(w): Buildings which are temporary (such as construction trailers).

Exception 7 to Section 150.0(w): An alteration that consists solely of roof and/or fenestration projects.

Exception 8 to Section 150.0(w): Mobile Homes, Manufactured Housing, or Factory-built Housing as defined in Division 13 of the California Health and Safety 12 Code (commencing with Section 17000 of the Health and Safety Code).

Exception 9 to Section 150.0(w): One accessory dwelling unit and one junior accessory dwelling unit per lot with a proposed or existing single-family dwelling if all of the following apply:
(1) The accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit is within the proposed space of a single-family dwelling or existing space of a single-family dwelling or accessory structure and may include an expansion of not more than 150 square feet beyond the same physical dimensions as the existing accessory structure. An expansion beyond the physical dimensions of the existing accessory structure shall be limited to accommodating ingress and egress.
(2) The space has exterior access from the proposed or existing singlefamily dwelling. (3) The side and rear setbacks are sufficient for fire and safety.

Exception 10 to Section 150.0(w): Where the project includes an accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit that is attached to the primary dwelling unit, either as a new addition or converted from within the space of

21.10 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
11 the primary dwelling unit, and there is not an additional combination alteration/addition to the primary dwelling unit of at least 350 square feet, then the primary dwelling unit is exempt from the requirements.

Exception 11 to section 150.0(w): Single family homes built after December 31, 1991.

New Table 150.0-I is added to read as follows:

Table 150.0-I: Measure Menu
Measures Table 150.0-J ID Points
Water Heating Package E1 1
Induction Cooktop E2 1
Heat Pump Clothes Dryer E3 1
Air Sealing E4 2
Duct Sealing E5 3
R-49 Attic Insulation E6 4
Windows E7 4
R-15 Wall Insulation E8 5
New Ducts + Duct Sealing E9 6
R-19 Floor Insulation E10 9
R-30 Floor Insulation E11 10
Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) E12 12
Solar PV + Electric Ready Pre-Wire E13 13
Heat Pump Space Heater E14 18
Utility Room, Kitchen & Laundry-Related Electric
Ready Pre-Wire M1 Mandatory
Panel-Related Electric Ready Pre-Wire M2 Mandatory
LED Lighting Upgrade M3 Mandatory
Note: the measures in the Measure Menu shall conform to the specifications in Table 150.0- J
New Table 150.0-J is added to read as follows:

Table 150.0-J: Measure Specifications
ID Measure Specification
General Measures
E1 Water Heating Package: Add exterior insulation meeting a minimum of R-6 to existing storage water heaters. Insulate all accessible hot water pipes with pipe insulation a minimum of ¾ inch thick. This includes insulating the supply pipe leaving the water heater, piping to faucets underneath sinks, and accessible pipes in attic spaces or crawlspaces. Upgrade fittings in sinks and showers to meet current California Green Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 11) Section 4.303 water efficiency requirements.

21.11 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
12 ID Measure Specification
Water heaters 20 gallons or less, or water heaters that are not able to add exterior insulation may not take credit for this measure.

Exception 1: Water heater blanket is not required on water heaters less than 20 gallons.

Exception 2: Water heater blanket not required if application of a water heater blanket voids the warranty on the water heater.

Exception 3: Upgraded fixtures are not required if existing fixtures have rated or measured flow rates of no more than ten percent greater than 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 11) Section 4.303 water efficiency requirements.

Exception 4: Water heaters with factory installed insulation of R-24 or greater
E2 Induction Cooktop: Replace existing gas and electric resistance stove top with inductive stove top and cap the gas line
E3 Heat Pump Clothes Dryer: Replace existing electric resistance clothes dryer with heat pump dryer with no resistance element and cap gas line.

E4 Air Sealing: Seal all accessible cracks, holes, and gaps in the building envelope at walls, floors, and ceilings. Pay special attention to penetrations including plumbing, electrical, and mechanical vents, recessed can light luminaires, and windows. Weather-strip doors if not already present.

Verification shall be conducted by a certified HERS Rater that either: a) shows at least a 30 percent reduction from pre-retrofit conditions; or b) shows that the number of air changes per hour at 50 Pascals pressure difference (ACH50) does not exceed ten for Pre-1978 vintage buildings, seven for 1978 to 1991 vintage buildings and five for 1992-2010 vintage buildings. Compliance can also be demonstrated with blower door testing conducted by a certified HERS Rater no more than three years prior to the permit application date showing compliance with condition (a) or (b).

If combustion appliances are located within the pressure boundary of the building, conduct a combustion safety test by a professional certified by the Building Performance Institute in accordance with the ANSI/BPI-1200-S2017 Standard Practice for Basic Analysis of Buildings, the Whole House Combustion Appliance Safety Test Procedure for the Comfortable Home Rebates Program 2020 or the California Community Services and Development Combustion Appliance Safety Testing Protocol.

Reducing the air leakage of a building can reduce the building's drying potential. When improving the air sealing of a building, consider if there is a need to add continuous ventilation to the building (if not already present).

E5 Duct Sealing: Air seal all space conditioning ductwork to meet the requirements of the 2025 Title 24 Section 150.2(b)lE. The duct system must be tested by a HERS Rater no more than three years prior to the alteration or addition permit application date to verify the duct sealing and confirm that

21.12 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
13 ID Measure Specification
the requirements have been met. This measure may not be combined with the New Ducts and Duct Sealing measure in this Table. Dwelling units without ductwork or where the ducts are in conditioned space may not take credit for this measure.

E6 R-49 Attic Insulation: Attic insulation shall be installed to achieve a weighted assembly U- factor of 0.020 or insulation installed at the ceiling level shall have a thermal resistance of R-49 or greater for the insulation alone. Recessed downlight luminaires in the ceiling shall be covered with insulation to the same depth as the rest of the ceiling. Luminaires not rated for insulation contact must be replaced or fitted with a fire-proof cover that allows for insulation to be installed directly over the cover.

Exception: In buildings where existing R-30 is present and existing recessed downlight luminaires are not rated for insulation contact, insulation is not required to be installed over the luminaires.

E7 Windows: Replace at least 50% of existing windows with high performance windows with an area-weighted average U-factor no greater than 0.27.

E8 R-15 Wall Insulation: Install wall insulation in all exterior walls to achieve a weighted U-factor of 0.095 or install wall insulation in all exterior wall cavities that shall result in an installed thermal resistance of R-15 or greater for the insulation alone.

E9 New Ducts+ Duct Sealing: Replace existing space conditioning ductwork with new R-8 ducts that meet the requirements of 2025 Title 24 Section 150.0(m) 11. This measure may not be combined with the Duct Sealing measure in this Table. To qualify, a preexisting measure must have been installed no more than three years before the alteration or addition permit application date.

E10 R-19 Floor Insulation: Raised-floors shall be insulated such that the floor assembly has an assembly U-factor equal to or less than U-0.037, or shall be insulated between wood framing with insulation having an R-value equal to or greater than R-19. This measure cannot be combined with measure R-30 Floor insulation.

E11 R-30 Floor Insulation: Raised-floors shall be insulated such that the floor assembly has an assembly U-factor equal to or less than U-0.028, or shall be insulated between wood framing with insulation having an R-value equal to or greater than R-30. This measure cannot be combined with measure R-19 Floor insulation.

E12 Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH): Replace existing electric resistance or natural gas storage water heater with a heat pump water heater that meets the requirements of Sections 110.3 and 150.2 (b) 1.H.iii.b or c.

E13 PV and Electric Ready Pre-Wire: Install a solar PV system that meets the requirements of 2025 Title 24 Section 150.l(c)14.

In addition to the solar PV system, comply with the water heating system electric readiness requirements per Section 150.0(w)4 and the heat pump space heaters requirements per Section 150.0(t) and one of the following:

21.13 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
14 ID Measure Specification
A. Energy Storage Systems (ESS) Ready, as specified in Section 150.0(s), or
B. EV Charger Ready as specified in the California Green Building Code, Title 24, Part 11, Section A4.106.8.1, which otherwise applies to new construction.

Exception 1: In buildings where the designated space requirement specified in Section 150.0(n) 1 can be demonstrated to the building official as infeasible, the electric readiness components per Section 150.0(n)l are not required.

E14 Heat Pump Space Heater: Replace all existing gas and electric resistance space heating systems with an electric-only heat pump system that meets the applicable requirements of Sections 150.2 (b) 1.C, 150.2 (b)1.E, 150.2(b)1.F, and 150.2(b)1.G.

Mandatory Measures
M1 Utility Room, Kitchen & Laundry-Related Electric Ready Pre-Wire:

Where the project includes a kitchen remodel, comply with the electric cooktop ready requirement, as specified in Section 150.0(u). Where the project includes a laundry room remodel, comply with the electric clothes dryer ready requirement, as specified in Section 150.0(v). Where the project includes a utility room remodel, comply with the water heating system electric readiness requirements per Section l50.0(n)1 and the heat pump space heater electric readiness requirements per Section 150.0(t):

Exception 1: If an electrical permit is not otherwise required for the project other than compliance with this measure.

Exception 2: If a utility service upgrade is not otherwise required for the project other than compliance with this measure.

Exception 3: In buildings where the designated space requirement specified in Section 150.0(n)1 can be demonstrated to the building official as infeasible, the electric readiness components per Section 150.0(n)1 are not required.

M2 Panel-Related Electric Ready Pre-Wire: Where the project includes a new electrical panel and electrical service upgrade to 200A or more, comply with the water heating systems electric readiness requirements per Section 150.0(n)1 and the heat pump space heater electric readiness requirements per Section 150.0(t).

Exception 1: In buildings where the designated space requirement specified in Section (150.0(n)1 can be demonstrated to the building official as infeasible, the electric readiness components per Section 150.0(n)1 are not required.

M3 LED Lighting Upgrade: Replace all interior and exterior screw-in incandescent, halogen, and compact fluorescent lamps with LED lamps.

Install photocontrol and either a motion sensor or an automatic time switch, or an astronomical time clock control on all exterior lighting luminaires consistent with current Title 24 requirements for new single-family residential buildings. Alternative means of exterior lighting timing controls,

21.14 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
15 ID Measure Specification
including smart home devices, may be approved.

Section 150.2(a) [ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS] is modified to read as follows:

Additions. Additions to existing single-family residential buildings shall meet the requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.9, Sections 150.0(a) through (n), (p), (q), (w), and either Section 150.2(a)1 or 2.

Section 150.2(b) [ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS] is modified to read as follows:

Alterations. Alterations to existing single-family residential buildings or alterations in conjunction with a change in building occupancy to a single-family residential occupancy shall meet either Item 1 or 2 below.

1. Prescriptive approach. The altered component and any newly installed equipment serving the alteration shall meet the applicable requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.9 and all applicable requirements of Sections 150.0(a) through (1), 150.0(m)1 through 150.0(m)10, 150.0(p) through (q). and 150.0(w); and

2. Performance approach. The altered component(s) and any newly installed equipment serving the alteration shall meet the applicable requirements of Subsections A, B, and C below.

A. The altered components shall meet the applicable requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.9, Sections 150.0(a) through (1), Sections 150.0(m)1 through 150.0 (m)10, Sections 150.0(p) through (q), and Section 150.0(w).

Entirely new or complete replacement mechanical ventilation systems as these terms are used in Section 150.2(b)1L, shall comply with the requirements in Section 150.2(b)1L. Altered mechanical ventilation systems shall comply with the requirements of Section 150.2(b)1M.

Entirely new or complete replacement space-conditioning systems, and entirely new or complete replacement duct systems, as these terms are used in Sections 150.2(b)1C and 150.2(b) lDiia, shall comply with the requirements of Sections 150.0(m)12 and 150.0(m)13.

Section 6. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force beginning January 1, 2026.

21.15 ORDINANCE NO. 2025-19
16 PASSED FOR PUBLICATION this 26th day of August 2025, by the following vote:

AYES: Councilmembers Trigueiro, Brunner, Golder, O’Hara; Vice Mayor Kalantari-Johnson; Mayor Keeley.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: Councilmember Newsome.

DISQUALIFIED: None.

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. 2025-19 and that
it has been published or posted in
accordance with the Charter of the
City of Santa Cruz.
________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

21.16 Proof of Publication
(2015 C.C.P.)
I, the undersigned, declare:

September 3, 2025
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.

This 3rd day of September, 2025, Santa Cruz, California ____________________________
Julia Wood
Deputy City Clerk Administrator

21.17 DECLARATION OF POSTING

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
) SS.

COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ )
On the 2nd day of September, 2025, I posted conspicuously in three public places within the City of Santa Cruz, Ordinance No. 2025-19, 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—16.

21.18 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/20/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Economic Development and Housing
SUBJECT: Resolution of Intention to Establish the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District (EDH)
LOCATION: Districts 1 and 2
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to adopt a Resolution of Intention to Establish the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District and Levy Assessments for Calendar Year 2026 in the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District.

BACKGROUND: The City of Santa Cruz Economic Development and Housing Department (EDH) has coordinated for many years with the Midtown Business Association, an informal organization currently operated by businesses in the area to promote and advocate for midtown business success. The businesses have advocated for growth of this organization and further investments for clean, safe, and welcoming services in the midtown commercial area. The businesses in this area have expressed interest in the creation of a formal improvement district for midtown similar to the improvement districts that operate downtown. EDH staff received direction from the City Council on January 23, 2024 to engage a district formation consultant and pursue the formation of an improvement district.

Following a RFP process, EDH hired a joint consultant team of Kristen Lowell, Inc., Civitas Advisors, and Community Strong Strategies to work on the establishment of a Midtown Business or Property-Based Improvement District (BID/PBID). The contract began in July 2024 with a scope of work that included determining the district structure, preparing a management plan for the district organization, and completing the ballot and legal process to establish the Midtown Business District. The consultant team’s initial recommendation was to explore the feasibility of a PBID, due to the level of stability and greater potential for district revenue from a propertybased model.

A steering committee was formed in September 2024 with representatives of business owners and key property owners within the proposed district boundaries. The purpose of the steering committee was to help determine priorities, help with outreach to stakeholders, and ultimately guide the City and consultants on assessment rates and services. The steering committee met twice with City staff and consultants. The steering committee held two facilitated community outreach workshops in Fall 2024 with potential district members to explain the process and benefits of establishing a BID/PBID and answer questions about the assessment, services, and

22.1 organization structure. Following the first two workshops and feedback from the property owners, it was determined that a PBID was not feasible due to lack of interest and support from property owners. The steering committee decided to move forward with a BID. The steering committee met in February, May, and July 2025 to determine the preferred service plan, assessment rate and budget. In August 2025 the steering committee hosted two more community outreach workshops to present the proposed BID structure to potential district members for additional feedback and to gauge support.

DISCUSSION: BIDs are organizations of business owners working to improve their commercial corridor or business district by supplementing public services through a stable funding mechanism. Benefits of a BID include:
 Customization to fit the needs of each district area;  The ability to provide a wide range of services to businesses located within the district, including: marketing programs, business promotion activities, and infrastructure improvements;
 Businesses who will pay into the assessment are able to participate in the design, creation and governance of the district; and
 The district, once formed, provides a stable funding source for ongoing business promotion.

In California, BIDs can be formed pursuant to the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Streets and Highways Code §36500 et seq. (the “1989 Law”). This law allows for the creation of special benefit assessment districts to raise funds within a specific geographic area.

Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District (MSCBID) The MSCBID will include assessed businesses, existing and in the future, within the boundaries described below:

The MSCBID generally includes the commercial corridor along Soquel Avenue, beginning at its intersection of Morrissey Boulevard, Water Street, and Soquel Avenue. It heads west on Water Street until the intersection of Seabright Avenue. It also heads southwest on Soquel Avenue until the intersection of Branciforte Avenue. It also includes all parcels fronting Seabright Avenue. It also goes 2 parcels deep on Seabright Avenue south from Soquel Avenue. There are 112 businesses included in the proposed district boundary as of July 31, 2025 when the database was finalized.

Businesses are assessed based on their building square footage for business space occupied (as recorded on business license), business type, base rate, and a flat base fee of $100 per business.

The annual budget may be subject to a combined increase in the base rate and flat base fee of no more than five percent (5%) per year. Annual increases will be voted on by the advisory board and approved by City Council in the annual renewal process.

Total Assessment = (Bldg. SF) X (Type %) X (Base Rate) + ($100 Base Fee) Type % Base Rate
Base Rate per Bldg. SF: $0.8106

22.2 Base Fee: $100.00
Type 1: Retail, Food & Lodging 100% $0.8106
Type 2: Financial, Bars 75% $0.8106
Type 3: Wholesale, Trade, Services, Professions, Auto
Dealers, Grocery Stores, Gyms (Capped at 10,000 SF AFTER building SF x Type %)
60% $0.8106
Type 4: Nonprofit, Theaters (capped at 10,000
SF AFTER building SF x Type %) 40% $0.8106
Duration: The MSCBID will have a one (1) year-life, beginning on January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2026. After the one (1) year, the MSCBID may be renewed pursuant to the 1989 Law.

Management:

The MSCBID will be managed by an advisory board made up of business owners from within the district charged with managing district funds and implementing programs in accordance with the ordinance establishing the MSCBID. The MSCBID formation steering committee, which is comprised of business owners in the proposed district boundary, has helped shape the service plan for the proposed district. The steering committee will select the initial slate of advisory board members and those individuals will be considered for appointment by the City Council at the final public hearing for the MSCBID formation.

Formation Process
If the MSCBID is established, a public hearing must be held on the proposed levy of assessment each fiscal year. Prior to the annual public hearing on the levy of assessment for the following fiscal year, business owners paying fifty percent (50%) or more of the assessment may protest and begin proceedings to terminate the MSCBID.

The City will be responsible for collecting the assessment on a bi-annual basis from each assessed business located in the MSCBID boundaries and disbursing the collected assessments to the non-profit that will be established to manage the district upon the district formation.

MSCBID FORMATION PROCESS
September 9, 2025 RESOLUTION OF INTENTION HEARING
City Council may initiate proceedings to establish an improvement area by the adoption of a resolution expressing its intention to establish an improvement area.

September 15, 2025 NOTICE
The 1989 Law requires the publication of the resolution of intention in a newspaper of general circulation in the City at least seven (7) days before the public hearing.

22.3 The 1989 Law also requires the mailing of a complete copy of the resolution of intention to each assessed business owner in the MSCBID at least seven (7) days before the public hearing.

October 28, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING AND INTRODUCTION/FIRST READING OF

ORDINANCE
At the public meeting, City Council shall introduce and conduct the first reading of the ordinance establishing the MSCBID and levying the assessment for the Calendar Year 2026.

November 18, 2025 FINAL PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING/ADOPTION OF

THE ORDINANCE
If written protests are received from the owners of businesses in the proposed MSCBID which will pay fifty percent (50%) or more of the assessments proposed to be levied and protests are not withdrawn so as to reduce the protests to less than fifty percent (50%), no further proceedings to levy the proposed assessment against such businesses shall be taken for a period of one (1) year from the date of the finding of a majority protest by City Council.

Following a successful public hearing and second reading of the ordinance, City Council shall convene to hold a second reading of the ordinance establishing the MSCBID and levying the assessment. Upon successful passage of the ordinance, the MSCBID shall be established, and the ordinance shall go into effect thirty (30) days after successful passage of the ordinance.

Following approval of the formation of the MSCBID, the City and consultants will assist the advisory board in establishing a nonprofit 501c6 organization to manage the new assessment revenue and serve as the legal entity managing the district.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed Council action is not a “project” under CEQA because it does not have the potential to cause a physical change in the environment directly or indirectly.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The MSCBID aligns with the equity goals of HiAP by establishing a district that promotes all businesses in the Midtown commercial district.

Businesses all receive equal benefit from the services provided including marketing and promotion, beautiful, clean, and safe services, and special projects available only to assessed businesses. The MSCBID also creates a unified and sustainable organization to improve advocacy of the commercial district and creates opportunities for collective decision making and leadership opportunities for businesses engagement in oversight of the district.

22.4 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: There is no significant fiscal impact to the General Fund.

The City will serve as the fiscal agent collecting assessments on behalf of the MSCBID and passing through those assessments to the organization. Because the MSCBID programs are intended to increase commercial activity for Midtown Santa Cruz, there may be an increase in sales tax collections to the City.

Prepared By:

Rebecca Unitt
Economic Development
Manager
Submitted By:

Bonnie Lipscomb
Deputy City Manager
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. RESOLUTION OF INTENTION.DOCX

2. MSCBID SERVICE PLAN.PDF

22.5 RESOLUTION NO. NS-30,XXX

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CRUZ DECLARING

ITS INTENTION TO ESTABLISH THE MIDTOWN SANTA CRUZ BUSINESS

IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (MSCBID) AND TO LEVY ASSESSMENTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026 IN THE MSCBID AND FIXING THE TIME AND PLACE OF A PUBLIC

HEARING THEREON AND GIVING NOTICE THEREOF
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Streets and Highways Code §36500 et seq. (“1989 Law”), authorizes the City of Santa Cruz (City) to establish business improvement areas; and
WHEREAS, Midtown Santa Cruz business owners and representatives from the City have met to consider the formation of the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District (“MSCBID”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Law, a public hearing must be held to establish the MSCBID and levy the proposed assessment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY THAT:

1. The recitals set forth herein are true and correct.

2. The City Council declares its intention to establish the MSCBID and to levy and collect assessments on assessed businesses within the MSCBID boundaries for Calendar Year 2026 pursuant to the 1989 Law.

3. The business improvement area shall be known as the “Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District.”

4. The proposed improvements and activities to be funded by the MSCBID in Calendar Year 2026 are, in general, beautiful, clean, and safe programs, marketing, branding, and special events programs, and administration services. A full description of the improvements and activities to be funded with the proposed assessments to be levied upon businesses in the MSCBID is included in the service plan for the 2026 calendar year which is on file with the City Clerk.

5. The boundaries of the MSCBID are described below, and are shown on the map attached hereto as Exhibit A:

22.6 6. Businesses are assessed based on their building square footage for business space occupied (as recorded on business license), business type, base rate, and a flat base fee of $100 per business. Except where funds are otherwise available, the assessments shall be levied and collected on an annual basis to pay for all improvements and activities within the area. The City shall collect the assessment. The chart below provides the annual assessment rate for each assessed business and a breakdown by classification of businesses. The annual budget may be subject to an increase in the base rate and flat base fee of no more than five percent (5%) per year. Increases will be voted on by the advisory board and approved by City Council in the annual report.

7. New businesses will not be exempt from the levy of assessment, pursuant to Section 36531 of the 1989 Law.

8. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that October 28, 2025, at 1pm, or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Santa Cruz, 809 Center Street, Room 10, Santa Cruz CA, 95060 is fixed as the time and place for a public meeting on the establishment of the MSCBID and the levy of the proposed assessment for Calendar Year 2026

9. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that November 18, 2025, at 1pm, or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Santa Cruz, 809 Center Street, Room 10, Santa Cruz CA, 95060 is fixed as the time and place for a public hearing on the establishment of the MSCBID and the levy of the proposed assessment for Calendar Year 2026.

10. At the aforesaid public hearing pursuant to Section 36524, the testimony of any and all interested persons for or against the establishment of the MSCBID, the extent of the MSCBID, and levy the assessments for Calendar Year 2026 or the furnishing of specified types of improvements or activities in Calendar Year 2026 in the MSCBID shall be heard and considered by City Council. Protests against the establishment of the MSCBID, the

22.7 extent of the area of the MSCBID, levying of assessments for Calendar Year 2026, or the furnishing of specified types of improvements or activities may be made orally or in writing by any interested person. Each written protest must be filed with the City Clerk, either by mail to City Clerk, City Hall, 809 Center Street, Room 10, Santa Cruz, California, 95060 or by e-mail to [email protected], at or before the time fixed for the public hearing.

A written protest may be withdrawn in writing at any time before the conclusion of the public hearing.

11. As provided in Section 36525 of the 1989 Law, if written protests against the establishment of the MSCBID and levying of assessments for Calendar Year 2026 are received from the owners of businesses in the MSCBID that would pay fifty percent (50%) or more of the assessments proposed to be levied and protests are not withdrawn so as to reduce the protest to less than fifty percent (50%), then no further proceedings to create the MSCBID or to levy the proposed assessment may be taken by City Council for a period of one year from the date of the finding of a majority protest by City Council. If the majority protest is only against the furnishing of a specified type or types of improvement or activity within the MSCBID, then those types of improvements or activities shall be eliminated. In order to be counted in determining a majority protest, a written protest must contain a description of the business in which the person submitting the protest is interested sufficient to identify the business and, if a person subscribing is not shown on the official records as the owner of the business, the protest shall contain or be accompanied by written evidence that the person subscribing is the owner of the business.

12. The City Clerk is hereby directed to give notice of the above-mentioned public meeting and public hearing pursuant to Section 54954.6 of the Government Code, by publication at least forty-five (45) days prior to the public hearing.

13. The City Clerk is hereby directed to give notice of the above-mentioned public hearing pursuant to Section 36523 of the California Streets and Highway Code, by mail within seven (7) days of the City Council’s adoption of the Resolution of Intention.

14. As provided in Section 36530 of the 89 Law, City Council shall appoint an advisory board which shall make a recommendation to City Council on the expenditure of revenues derived from the levy of assessments.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 9th day of September, 2025 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

DISQUALIFIED:

22.8 APPROVED: ______________________________
Fred Keeley, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Bonnie Bush, City Clerk Administrator

22.9 EXHIBIT A
District Boundaries

22.10 20xx-20xx
Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District

SERVICE PLAN
Prepared pursuant to the Parking and Business Improvement District Law of 1989, Streets and Highways Code section 36500 et seq.

August 14, 2025

22.11 2
Developed by business owners in the Midtown area in the City of Santa Cruz (City), the Midtown Santa Cruz Business Improvement District (MSCBID) is an assessment district proposed to provide specific benefit to assessed payors, by funding Beautiful, Clean, and Safe programs, Marketing, Branding, and Special Events programs, and Administration services.

Location: The Midtown Santa Cruz BID generally includes the commercial corridor along Soquel Avenue, beginning at its intersection of Morrissey Boulevard, Water Street and Soquel Avenue. It heads west on Water Street until the intersection of Seabright Avenue. It also heads southwest on Soquel Avenue until the intersection of Branciforte Avenue.

It also includes all parcels fronting Seabright Avenue. It also goes 2 parcels deep on Seabright Avenue south from Soquel Avenue.

Purpose: The MSCBID will provide Beautiful, Clean, and Safe programs, Marketing, Branding, and Special Events programs, and Administration services directly and only to payors within its boundaries.

Budget: The MSCBID annual assessment budget for the initial year operation is anticipated to be $250,000. The annual budget may be subject to an increase in the base rate and flat base fee of no more than five percent (5%) per year. Increases will be voted on by the advisory board and approved by City Council in the annual report.

Cost: Businesses are assessed based on their building square footage for business space occupied (as recorded on business license), business type, base rate, and a flat base fee of $100 per business.

Total Assessment = (Bldg. SF) X (Type %) X (Base Rate) + ($100 Base Fee) Type % Base Rate
Base Rate per Bldg. SF: $0.8106
Base Fee: $100.00
Type 1: Retail, Food & Lodging 100% $0.8106
Type 2: Financial, Bars 75% $0.8106
Type 3: Wholesale, Trade, Services,
Professions, Auto Dealers, Grocery Stores,
Gyms (Capped at 10,000 SF AFTER building
SF x Type %) 60% $0.8106
Type 4: Nonprofit, Theaters (capped at 10,000
SF AFTER building SF x Type %) 40% $0.8106
Duration: The MSCBID will have a one (1) year-life, beginning on January 1, 2026 and end December 31, 2026. After the one (1) year, the MSCBID may be renewed pursuant to the Parking and Business Improvement District Law of 1989, Streets and Highways Code section 36500 et seq. (89 Law).

22.12 3
Management: The advisory board appointed by City Council will be responsible for managing the MSCBID and charged with managing funds and implementing programs in accordance with the ordinance establishing the MSCBID.

BOUNDARIES
The map below illustrates the MSCBID boundaries.

SERVICE PLAN & BUDGET
Beautiful, Clean, and Safe
The Beautiful, Clean, and Safe programs will make the MSCBID cleaner, more accessible, and more inviting to potential tenants and customers. A regular schedule will be established for most of the maintenance services, while some will be provided on an as-needed basis. Services may include an ambassador program for the area, as budget allows. Beautiful, Clean, and Safe services may include, but are not limited to:
• Pressure washing sidewalks and gum removal;
• Regular litter removal services and installation and management of additional receptacles, including garbage, debris, and leaves;
• Graffiti removal for public spaces within the MSCBID boundaries;

22.13 4
• Flower baskets;
• Capital improvements that may include art installations, entry features, traffic calming measures, and maintenance and/or installation of benches, bike racks and decorative lighting; • Identifying and pursuing grant opportunities;
• Working with non-profit organizations to provide the unhoused with resources to emergency shelters, permanent housing, and mental/physical health care; • Landscape improvements and maintenance, such as weeding, mulching, planting of trees and flowers and subsequent trimming and upkeep; and
• Similar services designed to maintain a clean, attractive environment.

Marketing, Branding, and Special Events
The MSCBID will have a unified Marketing, Branding, and Special Events program that will collaborate with payors within the MSCBID boundaries to market and promote the MSCBID to the public as a single destination with a rich collection of attractions, businesses, events, and services. The MSCBID will coordinate exciting and fun events for the area. Further, the Marketing, Branding, and Special Events program will garner positive media coverage and frequent communications with business owners.

The Marketing, Branding, and Special Events program may include, but is not limited to:
• The development and distribution of visitor guides, press releases, e-newsletters, e-calendars, and a dedicated MSCBID website to enhance communication and engagement with the community; • Kiosks or display cases;
• Execution of marketing research to identify trends and opportunities; • Organization of special events that foster community interaction and coordination of necessary street closures that facilitate activities;
• Retail and business recruitment activities to encourage businesses to locate within the district; • Maintenance of business owner database;
• Creating an active evening and weekend environment to increase commerce to assessed businesses;
• Similar projects aimed at increasing visitation and commerce to assessed businesses, ultimately contributing to a vibrant and economically thriving MSCBID; • Directional, wayfinding, and gateway signage that establishes a sense of place, promotes patronage and activity, and connects the properties of the MSCBID service area with the larger community;
• Demonstration "pop up" efforts to attract additional event promoters into the District, showcasing local talent and fostering a vibrant atmosphere; • Funding the purchase and installation of regular rotational displays of pole banners, decorative lighting, holiday décor, art installations, and other decorative adornments throughout the MSCBID which serve to celebrate various shopping seasons which serve to present a cohesive image of community personality and identity; and
• Similar services designed to enhance the image of the MSCBID.

Administration
The administration portion of the budget will be utilized to provide a unified voice to represent and promote the shared needs and concerns of the MSCBID’s payors. The administration costs are associated with providing the activities and improvements for the MSCBID. These costs may include rent, telephone

22.14 5
charges, legal fees, accounting fees, postage, administrative staff, insurance, and other general office expenses. Administration funds may be used for advocacy. Advocacy efforts will utilize dedicated staff time to provide unified attention, communication, and responsiveness throughout the MSCBID and provide a unified voice to represent the MSCBID’s best interests. MSCBID staff will advocate for additional funding for the area as well as assist with grant writing for additional projects and funding.

Proposed Budget
The total budget for 2026 that is funded by assessments is approximately $250,000. Assessment funds will be spent to provide specific benefits to the payors.

Services % Budget
Beautiful, Clean, and Safe 50% $125,000
Marketing, Branding and Special Events 40% $100,000
Administration 10% $25,000
TOTAL 100% $250,000

22.15 Resolution of Intention to
Establish the Midtown Santa Cruz
Business Improvement District
(EDH)
September 9, 2025
Presented by:

Rebecca Unitt, Economic Development Manager

22.16 MIDTOWN BID

FORMATION

PROCESS
On January 23, 2024, City Council
directed staff to engage a district
formation consultant and pursue the
formation of an improvement district for
the Midtown Business Area.

Community Engagement, PBID management,
organizational capacity building
Certified engineer, public financing laws,
assessment districts
District formation, legal advisement, and
organizational technical support

22.17 WHAT IS A BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT?
Business Improvement Districts (BID) are
organizations of business owners working to
improve their commercial corridor or business
district - to supplement public services - through a
stable funding mechanism.

In California, BIDs can be formed pursuant to the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Streets and Highways Code §36500 et seq. (“89 Law”). This law allows for the creation of special benefit assessment districts to raise funds within a specific geographic area.

22.18 BENEFITS OF A BID
Provides (supplemental) essential
services
• Supplements, not supplants,
government services
• Focused on boundary area
• Paid for by a special assessment
from business owners
• Services and budget managed
by a board, non-profit
• Board is comprised of
stakeholders (rate payers)

22.19 Outreach Timeline - PBID Feasibility
Steering Committee
Formed
Meetings held:

September 2024
October 2024
February 2024
Online Survey for
Interest in BID/PBID
Opened in September 2024
42 responses
Two Hybrid
Workshops: Overview
of BID/PBID Framework
September 11 & 12 2024
45 attendees
Mailers sent to 180
property owners
Two Hybrid Workshops:

Details of PBID Concept
November 18 & 19 2024
25 attendees
Mailers sent to 180
property owners

22.20 Outreach Timeline - BID Feasibility
Steering Committee
Modified
Meetings held:

February 2025
May 2025
July 2025
September 2025
Business Walks &
Online Survey
April 2025
Business walk in district
boundaries to introduce
the BID concept
49 businesses contacted
35 completed survey
Two Hybrid
Workshops: Details of
BID Concept
August 20 & 21 2025
15 attendees
Mailers sent to all
businesses
Emails to 90 business
owners
Formation Process
City Council Meetings
2 public meetings
1 public hearing
2 Mailers to all businesses
with assessment detail and
legal notification
documents

22.21 DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
Soquel Ave
East – N. Branciforte
Ave
West – Pacheco Ave
North – Water Street
South – Seabright Ave

22.22 MIDTOWN BID ACTIVITIES

22.23 BID FIRST YEAR BUDGET

22.24 ASSESSMENT RATE
CALCULATION: Building SF x Type % x Base Rate + $100 Base Fee

22.25 ASSESSMENT COLLECTION & BID MANAGEMENT
• City collects assessments on behalf of District through Business License billing
⚬ Bi-annual installments billed January 1 & July 1
⚬ All funds passed through to the BID organization
• Advisory Board made up of Business owners from the
District is appointed by City Council to manage funds and implement programs
• BID has a one year life beginning Jan. 1 through Dec. 31 ⚬ Renewal Process begins in Fall 2026

22.26 PROCESS & TIMELINE
September 9, 2025
Resolution of Intention
to Form District
Notice:

Mail a copy of Reso of
Intention and notice of
public meeting/hearing
no later than Sept. 15
Publish Reso of Intention
in newspaper by Nov. 7
November 18, 2025
Public Hearing &
2nd Reading of
Ordinance
Held at least 45 days
after notice is mailed
Ordinance becomes law
30 days after adoption
Council appoints
Advisory Board
January 2026
BID begins operations
First bi-annual assessment
levied January 1,2026
Second bi-annual
assessment levied July 1,
2026
Renewal process begins in
Fall 2026
October 28, 2025
Public Meeting &
1st Reading of
Ordinance Establishing
BID
Held at least 10 days
after notice of Public
Hearing is mailed out and
at least 7 days before
Public Hearing is held

22.27 PROTEST HEARING PROCESS
At The Final Public Hearing:

If written protests are received from the owners of businesses in the proposed MSCBID which will pay fifty percent (50%) or more of the assessments proposed to be levied and protests are not withdrawn so as to reduce the protests to less than fifty percent (50%), no further proceedings to levy the proposed assessment against such businesses shall be taken for a period of one (1) year from the date of the finding of a majority protest by City Council.

22.28 RECOMMENDATION:

Motion to adopt a Resolution of Intention to
Establish the Midtown Santa Cruz Business
Improvement District and Levy Assessments for
Calendar Year 2026 in the Midtown Santa Cruz
Business Improvement District.

22.29 Thank you

22.30 City Council

AGENDA REPORT
DATE: 08/20/2025
AGENDA OF: 09/09/2025
DEPARTMENT: Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report (PR)
LOCATION: District 1
RECOMMENDATION: Motion to:
1) Accept the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report; and 2) Adopt a finding of categorical exemption pursuant to sections 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies), 15306 (Information Collection), and 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.

BACKGROUND: On October 13, 2020, the City Council approved the Parks Master Plan 2030, which includes goals, policies, and actions for the provision of parks and recreational services, as well as specific recommendations for improvements to the City’s parks, beaches, open spaces, and recreational facilities. The Parks Master Plan 2030 recommendations for San Lorenzo Park include the following:
 Consider a comprehensive renovation of the park. Examples include upgrading the playground, renovating or removing the pond, adding more colorful gardening displays, providing art, renovating or relocating the restrooms, expanding the number of recreational facilities, installing hidden infrastructure to support events, and constructing functional architectural elements such as entrances, plazas, art, stages, and arbors.  Increase programming of the park.
 Hold more events and concerts in the park.
 Consider the park as a location for a permanent or seasonal food truck court.  Partner with the County to provide recreational facilities on the parcel of County-owned land immediately to the north of the lawn bowling facility. Recreational facilities could include pickleball courts, exercise equipment, and/or amenities or features that could be incorporated into weddings or events.

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report is the outcome of an extensive public process to consider renovations to the park (San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report.pdf). The effort kicked off in January 2023. The revisioning process evolved from an understanding of existing conditions and needs to a vision and iterative concepts developed with engaged community

23.1 input. The park’s existing conditions were evaluated and initial outreach was collected through stakeholder meetings, a community meeting, and a survey to identify needs and opportunities.

Initial stakeholder meetings provided important insights and assisted in framing topics for the broader community meeting. A park survey provided another opportunity to both collect general feedback and further zero-in on topics which arose as common themes from the outreach.

Additional stakeholder meetings were held to reach more groups. Collectively, from January 2023 – April 2023, 17 stakeholder meetings, a community meeting, and a survey were conducted.

Following the community engagement process, a Needs Assessment was assembled to document the opportunities and constraints for the park redesign, summarize the existing conditions and outreach, and recommend overarching guiding principles and design goals to guide the next steps in the redesign process (Needs Assessment: www.cityofsantacruz.com/redesignsanlorenzopark).

During the May 8, 2023 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the Commission unanimously recommended the City Council accept the draft guiding principles and design goals for the San Lorenzo Park Redesign process (6 in favor, 1 absent).

On August 8, 2023, the City Council received an update and accepted recommendations on the draft guiding principles and design goals for the San Lorenzo Park Redesign process. The City Council unanimously accepted the guiding principles and design goals and directed staff to incorporate language into the guiding principles and design goals to preserve and enhance the flood control component of the park.

On October 7, 2023, Community Meeting #2 was held to present and collect feedback on three options for the layout and uses for the park and gather input on programmatic elements.

Approximately 40 community members attended the outreach meeting. There was a strong preference for two of the three options.

On November 14, 2023, the City Council approved a budget adjustment to allow for the exploration of preliminary concepts for the restoration of the riverlands. The Parks and Recreation Department hired Environmental Science Associates, an environmental consulting firm, to assist in the review of preliminary flood management and natural restoration strategies.

From October 23, 2023 – November 5, 2023, the Parks and Recreation Department released Online Survey #2 which included two layout and use options which were based on community input from Community Meeting #2. The purpose was to zero-in on a preferred option.

On January 8, 2024, staff presented the former Recommended Layout and Use Option to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Commission unanimously recommended to the City Council to accept it as the basis for the draft redesign plan with some modifications.

In September 2024, the San Lorenzo Park Redesign process was temporarily put on hold. The City of Santa Cruz received a $2.5 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to design, permit, and construct recreation, flood management, and natural restoration components of the riverlands portion of San Lorenzo Park. At that time, staff believed it made sense to put the redesign concept plan on hold to allow for the final concept plan to present a more coordinated vision for the two areas.

23.2 In October and November 2024, meetings were held with representatives from the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band and Coastanoan Rumsen Carmel Tribe to receive input on the park. Additional meetings have been held with both tribes in relation to the NOAA grant processes.

In November 2024, staff met with the AIDS Memorial at San Lorenzo Park Coordinating Team to discuss potential locations for a future memorial. Their preferred location was along the multiuse trail under the cork oaks to the west of the lawn bowling facility.

During the June 9, 2025 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the Commission unanimously recommended the City Council accept the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Plan Final Report to help guide future planning efforts and to provide limited public access to the Riverlands to connect people to nature while maintaining/protecting the goals of the Riverlands restoration (4 in favor, 3 absent).

DISCUSSION: Staff is pleased to present the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report. This document is considered a report rather than a “plan” because the ideas presented in the document are conceptual and additional outreach, studies, and analyses will be necessary before any future park project is proposed. The report presents a community vision for San Lorenzo Park which is based on extensive community outreach. It also includes guiding principles and design goals and concepts to further illustrate that vision. It will be used to help guide future planning efforts for the park.

The City Council accepted the below guiding principles and design goals for the redesign process.

Guiding Principles:
• Keep the park clean, safe, and secure.
• Make the park uniquely Santa Cruz and reflect our culture. • Activate the park.
• Make the park a sustainable green space for everyone. • Promote biodiversity and natural habitat.
• Create a park that attracts the community and visitors. • Offer a range of activities, events, and programs for all ages and abilities. • Increase visibility and accessibility of the park and river. • Preserve and enhance flood management in the riverlands.

Design Goals:
• Design a park that is sustainable and maintainable.
• Include a range of spaces for passive recreation such as trails, picnic areas, walking, and bird watching.
• Include a playground for all ages and abilities with natural, climbing, and interactive elements.
• Provide facilities including restrooms, drinking fountains, waste receptacles, and seating. • Conduct restoration projects in the riverlands to promote native plant species. • Include a range of spaces for active recreation and different programs. • Promote opportunities for environmental and historical education. • Connect to the river for education, unique encounters, and stewardship. • Create prominent entries and connections to the park. • Create venues for different size events and festivals.

23.3 • Design for multi-modal access.
• Preserve heritage trees.

The consulting team designed options for the layout and uses to achieve the guiding principles and design goals which were then narrowed down and refined through an iterative public process. Three options were presented at a community meeting with participants expressing a preference for two of the options which were then sent out through a public survey. Based on the community input, staff presented the draft preferred option to the Parks and Recreation Commission on January 8, 2024. The Commission unanimously recommended to the City Council to accept the Recommended Layout and Use Concept for the upland section as the basis for the draft redesign plan for the park and to continue the development of the riverlands (previously known as the benchlands) section recommendation until comprehensive, inclusive restoration analysis is available. The following specific feedback was also provided:
• Identify and preserve lawn bowling within the park
• Locate and design an AIDS memorial within the park
• Work to include an upland pond as a water feature in the park • Engage with indigenous groups present at the January 8 meeting • Focus on daytime pickleball use only
• Support the upland Amphitheater
Parks and Recreation staff worked with the consulting team to refine the layout and uses. The consulting team finalized the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report.

Uplands Concept: The San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report includes concepts for the uplands and riverlands areas of the park. The uplands concept includes a layout showing a large play area, picnic areas, lawn, a restroom/kiosk building, a basketball court, lawn bowling, memorials, pickleball courts, plazas, slacklining, and a maintenance/community room building.

The narrative description for the uplands includes additional ideas, such as the desire to use darksky compliant lighting, provide a multi-purpose lawn area for which could be used for events, accommodate grade changes for overlooks and terraced seating, and create a plaza that could be a flexible space to allow for outdoor fitness, events, roller skating or pop-up programs.

This concept addresses the Parks and Recreation Commission feedback received during the January 8, 2024 meeting, except for the inclusion of the pond. The lawn bowling is shown remaining at its current location. Pickleball courts are shown at the rear of the County’s Government Building. The AIDS Memorial is shown under the cork oaks along the multi-use path. Language is added to support earthworks to create an amphitheater in the uplands.

The pond has been excluded for several reasons. Throughout the engagement process, feedback emphasized the importance of both natural restoration and events at the park. During the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on January 8, 2024, concerns were expressed regarding maintaining a lawn area with an amphitheater in the riverlands and that additional outreach was necessary for a comprehensive restoration analysis. The concept now prioritizes the riverlands area as a restoration area, and the amphitheater has been removed from the concept.

One of the overarching design goals is to create venues for different-sized events and festivals. In the uplands concept, the large, central footprint currently occupied by the pond is shown as a multi-use lawn adjacent to a central plaza—offering a versatile space for gatherings and community events.

23.4 The overall riverlands concept prioritizes ecological restoration, aiming to provide a peaceful, natural area along the San Lorenzo River. This concept would be visually appealing and support wildlife, and would also provide opportunities to sit peacefully and enjoy nature. This concept also emphasizes best water conservation practices whereas maintaining the pond requires a significant use of potable water. Another guiding principle is to activate the park. While the pond may offer visual appeal and a focal point, the presence of an approximately ½ acre pond in the middle of the park is a passive use and does not inherently provide active recreation opportunities.

Riverlands Concept: The riverlands concept currently shows the whole area for natural restoration. The narrative describes that potential uses could include restoration areas, hiking trails, river overlooks, or a multi-purpose lawn. The narrative includes other ideas such as partnerships with the Native American tribal communities, the need for a vegetation management plan to guide natural restoration strategies to support wildlife, biodiversity, and flood management, and possible additional wetland areas such as side channels, inlets, or alcoves to increase river channel volume and promote niche habitats. Staff met with representatives from the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band and Coastanoa Rumsen Carmel Tribe and have incorporated their ideas into the narrative for future partnerships.

During the June 9, 2025, Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, Commissioners discussed the trade-offs with the pond and ultimately determined it was necessary to remove the pond.

Commissioners were concerned that the Riverlands area should not be completely closed to public access as part of the natural restoration approach. Commissioners discussed that public access needs to be maintained, but in a limited and controlled manner to avoid harming the environment. The Commission unanimously recommended the City Council accept the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Plan Final Report to help guide future planning efforts and to provide limited public access to the Riverlands to connect people to nature while maintaining/protecting the goals of the Riverlands restoration (4 in favor, 3 absent). Staff has added language to reflect the Commission’s recommendation to the Final Report under the Riverlands Section, Preferred Uses and Programs (pg. 53).

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report includes guiding principles, design goals, a vision, and concepts that address the community needs identified through the public engagement process. It is not considered a prescriptive document. It lays out a vision and concepts of what is possible to achieve a desired outcome. Additional planning, site development, outreach, environmental review, and funding are necessary before any future projects envisioned in the Report can be implemented. The estimated cost for the uplands portion of the project would likely be in the $25 - 30 million range to complete as shown in the concept. There is not enough information in the riverlands portion to provide an estimate at this time.

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) DETERMINATION: The proposed Council action is not a “project” under CEQA because adoption of the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report does not have the potential to cause a physical change in the environment either directly or indirectly in that it is a summary of the guiding principles, design goals, and concepts developed for the park and acceptance of the report does not commit the City to any particular action. (Pub. Resources Code § 21065.) In the alternative, if acceptance of the report is considered a “project” for purposes of CEQA, the following categorical exemptions apply: 14 CCR § 15262 (Feasibility and Planning Studies), § 15306 (Information Collection), and § 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) because the report consists of data collection and

23.5 resource evaluation, is not legally binding on later activities, and it can be seen with certainty that there will be no possibility of a significant effect on the environment resulting from accepting the report. Furthermore, none of the exceptions to categorical exemptions set forth in § 15300.2 apply.

HEALTH IN ALL POLICIES (HiAP): The San Lorenzo Park Redesign process included creating a vision and concepts for the park. Concepts were included to enhance equity by improving park access and providing quality amenities to a growing community. It also included concepts to create a quality park within walking distance of new housing, enhance habitat, and update water features to conserve water. Concepts were also included that could improve public health by providing opportunities to exercise, relax, or engage in social activities.

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: No impact at this time.

Prepared By:

Noah Downing
Park Planner
Submitted By:

Tony Elliot
Parks and Recreation Director
Approved By:

Matt Huffaker
City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:

1. SAN LORENZO PARK CONCEPTUAL REDESIGN FINAL REPORT.PDF

23.6 San Lorenzo Park
Conceptual Redesign
Final Report
August 2025

23.7 Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Planning
PO Box 460309
San Francisco, CA 94146
415.206.0648
www.bioniclandscape.com
Parks and Recreation
City of Santa Cruz
Parks and Recreation Department
323 Church St
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831.420.5270
For more information, contact:

Noah Downing
[email protected]
Acknowledgments:

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the community members and organizations that contributed their valuable insights, ideas, and feedback throughout the community outreach
process. Your participation has been instrumental in shaping the recommendations in this plan to address the diverse needs of our community. We eagerly anticipate continuing our conversations as we look to the future in turning these redesign concepts into meaningful park improvement projects.

City Council:

Mayor Fred Keeley
Vice Mayor Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson
Renee Golder
Susie O’Hara
Sonja Brunner
Scott Newsome
Martine Watkins
Gabriela Trigueiro
Sandy Brown
Parks and Recreation Commission:

Chair Bradley Angell
Vice Chair Leonardo Cruz
Dan Ackerstein
Barbara Lawrence
Jane Mio
Jacob Pollock
Nik Strong-Cvetich
Hollie Locatelli
Kristina Kincaid Glavis
Parks and Recreation Department:

Tony Elliot, Director of Parks and Recreation
Noah Downing
Mike Godsy
Steve Gomez
Travis Beck
Prepared by:

Parks and Recreation
Noah Downing
Bionic
Marcel Wilson, Design Director
Sarah Moos Thompson, Associate Principal
2 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.8 Table of Contents
4 Introduction
• Context
• Park Transformation
9 Existing Conditions & Observations
• Access & Connections
• Transit & Parking
• Current Park Entries
• Park History
• Historical Events
• Villages Along the River & Indigenous Santa Cruz Peoples • River Confluence
• Flood Management
• San Lorenzo River Section
• Roughness & Freeboard
• Unique River Reach
• Habitat & Ecology
• Mature Trees
• Available Space
• Existing Park Features & Facilities
29 Engagement Defines Need
• Community Engagement Process
• Opportunities
• Guiding Principles
• Design Goals
37 Vision
• Conceptual Redesign
• Uplands
• Uplands Preliminary Cost Estimate
• Riverlands
• Surrounding Areas
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.9 3 The City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department staff, with the design team, conducted the San Lorenzo Park conceptual redesign effort from December 2022 - October 2024. The purpose of the conceptual redesign effort was to evaluate existing conditions; analyze site constraints, opportunities, physical attributes, and context; facilitate outreach to understand community needs and desires; and create a conceptual master planning document including conceptual renderings and narrative to guide the uses, design, activities, and future development within the park. The Parks & Recreation Department staff and the design team conducted the conceptual redesign effort in three stages.

Stage 1 consisted of research of existing conditions and observations, and community engagement to inform a needs assessment. The needs assessment identified the unique opportunities, guiding principles, design goals, and potential programs for the park that served as a guide for the redesign effort.

Stage 2 consisted of drafting options for the park and developing the redesign direction, as well as community engagement to refine the concepts.

Stage 3 consisted of further refining the concepts and completing the final report.

This report summarizes the process and describes in detail the vision and concepts for San Lorenzo Park. This document will serve as a feasibility study to inform possible future uses, design, activities, permitting, and development. Additional studies and analysis are necessary to further refine the concepts. See the Needs Assessment and supporting documents for more background information on the process.

Introduction
4 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.10 San Lorenzo Park serves surrounding neighborhoods and is a downtown park San Lorenzo Park is centrally located in San Lorenzo Park serves the City of Santa Cruz Santa Cruz County
+
+
1/2-mile
Located at the heart of the city and county of Santa Cruz, San Lorenzo Park is a cherished but outdated park with unique potential to be transformative for Santa Cruz and its communities. The park is situated along the San Lorenzo River directly across from downtown and along the Santa Cruz Riverwalk. It is centrally located within both the county and city. Per the City’s 2030 General Plan, it is a community park and is intended to be designed to serve the entire community and offer unique facilities.

Context
+
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.11 5 San Lorenzo Park has been an important site in Santa Cruz’s history. The park has held significant meaning to many people and cultures throughout history and it has served the city in profound ways during times of crisis. Santa Cruz was a significant site for indigenous villages of the Awaswas-speaking Uypi tribe that may have been located at or near the present-day San Lorenzo Park.* Over time, San Lorenzo park became part of the growing and urbanizing city. Following the devastating 1955 flood, San Lorenzo Park was transformed into its current open space configuration as part of the San Lorenzo River flood-control project and the redevelopment of a large portion of the downtown area.

Since its opening, San Lorenzo Park has hosted memorable events, spaces for families and the community to enjoy, and recreational opportunities. The riverlands (formerly referred to as “the benchlands”)** were transformed during the COVID pandemic into sanctioned and unsanctioned encampments. In 2022, the city returned the riverlands to a vacant open space and began a process of restoration.

Park Transformation
Images (clockwise): 1. Depiction of one of the indigenous peoples from the Monterey Bay area region, Amah Mutsun
Tribal Band (Source: https://www.amahmutsunlandtrust.
org/the-tribal-band), 2. Plaque in park, 3. Serpent play structure at San Lorenzo Park, approx. 1964, 4. Santa Cruz flooded in 1955 flood, 5. Encampment in the riverlands
during COVID pandemic, May 2022.
6 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.12 Today, the City of Santa Cruz continues to evolve and the downtown is experiencing substantial growth that will increase the need for public open space near downtown. Located directly adjacent to downtown and along the riverwalk, a redesigned San Lorenzo Park could provide much needed open space and improved connectivity for the growing Santa Cruz population.

The park should honor and remember the park’s storied history, while also offering new park amenities and uses for the park’s diverse population of users including the growing downtown population. It could serve as a downtown park and it should be forward thinking as a downtown park to provide uses and open space for many future generations.
* https://coastal-watershed.org/the-meaning-of-aulintak/ Rizzo, M. A. (2016). No Somos Animales: Indigenous Survival and Perseverance in 19th Century Santa Cruz, California. UC Santa Cruz. Doctoral Dissertation, http://www.protectjuristac.org/2020minilessons/Michelle Lorimer & Shelley Brooks, (2019).

Missions’ impact on environment and economy. Teaching California Curriculum Inquiry. **This report will refer to the benchlands as the riverlands, and the upland as the uplands.

San
Lorenzo
Park
Neighborhoods Downtown
Riverwalk
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.13 7 Existing site aerial
8 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.14 Existing
Conditions &
Observations
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.15 9 Access & Connections
There are many ways to access the park today by
foot, bicycle, bus, and car. Access to the park from
downtown and adjacent neighborhoods, however, is
unclear, hidden, and disconnected in locations. This
presents opportunities to better connect the park,
create more visibility for accessing the park, and more prominent and safe entry points.
10 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.16

S REVIR OZNEROL NA

REVIR TEERTS

AS ZURC ATN

ESUOHTRUOC

FO YTNUOC

ZURC ATNAS

NORF REVIR T

RAG EGA

WATER STREET

SOQUEL AVENUE

BRANCIFORTE CREEK

DAKOTA STREET

XODARAP LETOH
LETOH

XODARAP

TEERTS NAECO

RIVER STREET

TEERTS TNORF

FRONT STREET

PACIFIC AVENUE
Parking Garage #10
Dakota Ave street parking
County Parking lot
(Select events only)
Transit Stop
Transit & Parking
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.17 11 Park Entries
Current Park
Entries
The park currently has many
entries. Some are hidden, hard to
find, unclear, and some community
members feel unsafe.
1 2
3 4
5 6
78 9
10 11
12 12 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.18 Current Park Entries
5 6
9 10
3 4
12 1 2
7 8
11 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.19 13 Park History
Serpent play structure at San Lorenzo Park San Lorenzo Park, built 1964 Resource: Santa Cruz Public Libraries Local History
San Lorenzo River at San Lorenzo Park
Resource: Santa Cruz Public Libraries Local History
San Lorenzo Park is the largest park in
downtown Santa Cruz, directly adjacent
to the San Lorenzo River and diverse
riverside neighborhoods. The park was
created in the redevelopment project
following the catastrophic 1955 flood.

One of its attractions since 1964 has
been “Lorenzo” the sea serpent in the
play area.
14 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.20 Historical Events
Historical Bull and Bear Fights
Resource: Library of Congress; Bancroft Library
Swimming in the San Lorenzo River at Brookdale. Right: Decorated boats and barges in the Water Carnival, 1890’s.

Resource: Santa Cruz Public Libraries Local History
The first Venetian Water Carnival, 1895
Resource: Santa Cruz Public Libraries Local History
Central stage for the Water Carnival on the San Lorenzo River, 1890’s
Resource: Santa Cruz Public Libraries Local History
Resource: https://www.hmdb.org/m.
asp?m=100961, Photographed By Jim Cirner
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.21 15 Villages Along the River &
Indigenous Santa Cruz Peoples
Source: https://coastal-watershed.org/the-meaning-of-aulintak/ Rizzo, M. A. (2016). No Somos Animales: Indigenous Survival and Perseverance in 19th Century Santa Cruz, California. UC Santa Cruz. Doctoral Dissertation, http://www.protectjuristac.org/2020minilessons/
Michelle Lorimer & Shelley Brooks, (2019). Missions’ impact on environment and economy. Teaching California Curriculum Inquiry.

The park and surrounding area may have been a village site of the indigenous Awaswas-speaking Uypi tribe. Sources suggest that Chalumü was an indigenous village of the Awaswas-speaking Uypi tribe located at or near the present-day San Lorenzo Park. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited for approximately 2,000 years before Spanish colonization in the late 1700s. For centuries, indigenous peoples tended to the land through restorative practices. The Native American tribal communities are helping restore natural lands in the Monterey Bay area. 16 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.22 River Confluence
The confluence of San Lorenzo
River and Branciforte Creek on the
southwest edge of the park presents
a unique opportunity for the park.

Confluences often have historical
significance. The confluence today
is hidden and forgotten.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.23 17 The extreme flood events of winter 2023 are a reminder that San Lorenzo Park is connected to a dynamic and regional ecological system much larger than the park itself. Designed to fill up in major storm events, the riverlands have historically flooded and are designed to manage large flood volumes.

These dynamics define challenges and opportunities for this low-lying area. At roughly 6.3 acres, or 48.5% of the total park area, the riverlands function differently from the uplands and are restricted in the types of improvements and uses that can occur in the low-lying area. Improvements in the riverlands will be subject to US Army Corps review and approval to meet flood control measures for San Lorenzo River.

Riverlands Designed to Flood, January 2023
Low-Lying Riverlands Flood Management
18 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.24 Existing San Lorenzo River Section
San Lorenzo Park
Downtown Riverlands
San Lorenzo River
Section 1 : Low water volume
Section 2 : High water volume
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.25 19 Roughness, defined as the frictional resistance water experiences when passing over land and channel features, is a considerable factor in determining the amount and type of improvements that can occur in the riverlands. Freeboard is the distance between the water surface and the top of the riverbank, and suggests the additional amount of roughness that the channel can accommodate.

Roughness and freeboard influence the capacity of the river to hold and convey a certain volume of water. A river channel, like the San Lorenzo River, that has a high roughness and limited freeboard has limited capacity to accommodate more water volume, particularly in large storms or as sea levels rise. A memorandum prepared by ESA in December 2023 identified that the San Lorenzo River in the San Lorenzo Park reach currently has a high roughness and limited freeboard. It is anticipated that to add improvements to the riverlands such as native plants, trees, pathways, or other improvements will require that the overall roughness is reduced, the freeboard is increased, the channel volume is increased, or a combination. Additional analysis of the riverlands is required to evaluate the type and amount of improvements that are feasible for the riverlands due to the current roughness and freeboard.

Elements Contributing to Roughness Freeboard
Roughness & Freeboard
Shrubs Dunes Rocks Trees
Logs /
Woody Material
Structures
Limited freeboard in existing channel.

Little to no room to add roughness.
20 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.26 Unique River Reach
North of Hwy 1 Hwy 1 to Water St Soquel Ave to
Riverside Ave
Riverside Ave
to Main Beach
Water St to
Soquel Ave
Hwy 1 to Water St
Water St to Soquel Ave
Soquel Ave to Riverside Ave
Riverside Ave to Main Beach
North of Hwy 1
Unlike other urban reaches of the San Lorenzo
River that have strict levee requirements
precluding a riparian corridor, the reach at
San Lorenzo Park includes a dense riparian
tree canopy overhanging the water’s edge in
the riverlands. The riparian canopy promotes
habitat not found elsewhere along the urban
reaches of San Lorenzo River.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.27 21 Dense riparian tree
canopy overhanging
San Lorenzo River.
22 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.28 Right: San Lorenzo River & Park
provide habitat for swallows,
great horned owls, wood ducks,
spawning Coho salmons, seals,
and steelhead trout.

Habitat & Ecology
The park hosts numerous wildlife species along the river and in the park. The mature canopy cover along the riparian edge of the river allows for riparian habitat and species to exist in this location.

The spaces adjacent to the river also offer valuable ecological potential and a reconnection to the river.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.29 23 Mature Trees
There is an extensive mature tree canopy in the park that contributes great value to the urban forest. Where heritage trees are located, the area within the drip line (beneath the canopy) needs to be preserved in place with minimal improvements to preserve the trees. Heritage trees should be preserved where possible. The area outside of the drip line is the available space for programming.
24 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.30 Available Space
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 25
Available Space
Tree Drip Zone

23.31 Existing Park Features & Facilities
The park today has a number of existing features and facilities, some cherished while others are outdated, providing marginal use, and are not conducive to the desired level of park use for a community-serving, centrally-located downtown park. There are areas of the park that are currently underutilized or under planted. Many of the features and facilities are in need of repair, replacement, or removal.

Pathways: Pathways have degraded and are crumbling.

Stairs & Ramps: Stair infrastructure in the slope between the uplands and riverlands is degraded.

Utilities & Irrigation: Electrical and irrigation infrastructure in the riverlands is defunct. Irrigation in the uplands is outdated and in need of repair.

Plumbing: Plumbing in the restroom has been degraded due to vandalism.

Irrigation lines: Irrigation lines cannot be touched.

Restroom: The restroom has been degraded due to vandalism.

Lawns: Existing turf areas have hosted numerous events in the park, but experience drainage issues and could be refreshed and include better drainage and irrigation.

Trees: The park includes many heritage and smaller diameter trees that should be preserved where possible. The park also includes some dead and diseased trees. Future phases should conduct an arborist study and remove dead or diseased trees per arborist recommendations.

Lorenzo: The sea serpent sculpture named Lorenzo was recently repainted by the community and is a cherished park feature.

The Pond: The liner and concrete has degraded and repair is not feasible, pumps and portions of the aeration system have failed.

Lawn Bowling: Synthetic turf on the lawn bowling court is in need of replacement.

Chinatown Bridge: The Chinatown Bridge and dragon archway are in fine and usable condition.

Playground: The playground is original to 1964, experiences drainage issues, and no longer meets best practices or inclusivity standards for playgrounds.

Riverlands: Riverlands area lawn has been abandoned and is overgrown.

Modernization: The park could be modernized to include more features to improve the use of people of all different types of abilities.
26 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.32 Surfacing
needs
replacement
Outdated
playground
Recently
repainted
Tarpaper layer
leaking
Needs
refresh &
restoration
Preserve
elements in
good condition
Degraded
stairs
Need
replacement
Degraded
pathways
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.33 27 28 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.34 Engagement
Defines Need
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.35 29 To identify and confirm the community’s needs, the design team and Parks and Recreation Department staff conducted extensive community engagement in Stages 1-3 of the redesign process in the form of key stakeholder meetings, email correspondence, community meetings, and on-line surveys. Stage 1 consisted of research of existing conditions and observations, and community engagement to inform a needs assessment. Stage 2 consisted of drafting options for the park and developing the redesign plan direction, as well as community engagement to select the community preferred redesign plan and plan elements. Stage 3 consisted of refining the vision and concepts, as well as completing the final report. The engagement process was designed to gauge preferences for programs and amenities that are desired for the park, as well as what aspects of the park people would like to see preserved and revitalized.

Engagement tools asked respondents about demographics, park uses, the park today, and the park tomorrow. The process identified a range of diverse needs for San Lorenzo Park. The process also identified a broad consensus for a park that is usable, safe, activated, loved, and promotes ecological function.

Community Engagement Process
key stakeholder meeting attendees
online survey responses
(2 online surveys)
Engagement by the Numbers*
community meeting attendees
(2 community meetings held)
2,233
212
110
Active: activities such
as a playground,
events, sports facilities
Others
Q16: What overall experience do you think should be
More passive: activities
such as picnic, nature
trails, bird watching
A combination of both active
and passive experiences
Q10: What would you change it to? And why?
Overall Park Experience
“San Lorenzo Park and the river
are crown jewels in the city.”
Select Quotes
“We want to see the park as
an asset to the community.”
“Restore sacredness to the land.”
“Keep Santa Cruz Memorable.”
* See Needs Assessment for more detailed information.
91 emailed comments
30 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.36 e at the park?
Events
None of the above
Q11: Should the bench lands be used for restorations, events or both? Restore as
natural area
for wildlife
habitat and
nature trails
A combination of boths
Q15: What playground features?
Stage 1 Engagement Images San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.37 31 Based on the community engagement process, an analysis of the park’s existing park features and conditions, and the city’s maintenance and operational needs, Stage 1 identified ambitious and forward-thinking opportunities for San Lorenzo Park in the Needs Assessment. The Needs Assessment defined the park opportunities, guiding principles, design goals, and potential programs that served as a guide during the redesign process to develop the community preferred vision and concepts for San Lorenzo Park. The following includes the identified opportunities, guiding principles, and design goals.

Opportunities:

San Lorenzo Park has the potential to be transformative in unique and profound ways for Santa Cruz. The following opportunities are identified here to redesign San Lorenzo Park as a modern urban park that is equipped to respond to the evolving needs of a growing city with changing climatic conditions.
• Reposition the park for an evolving city
• Restore ecological function
• Promote traditions and a civic destination
• Preserve and revitalize existing park features
• Prioritize inclusivity
• Design for safety and operations
• Foster partnerships and stewardship
Opportunities
Promote
traditions & a
civic destination
Preserve &
revitalize existing park features
Restore
ecological
function
32 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.38 Prioritize
inclusivitiy Design for safety & operations
Foster
partnerships
& stewardship
As part of the transformation of San Lorenzo Park, this process included re-branding certain terminology and definitions formerly used for areas of San Lorenzo Park. Formerly referred to as the “benchlands”, this process referred to the lower-lying areas adjacent to the river as the “riverlands”.

Formerly referred to as the “upper park”, this process referred to the areas at higher elevations adjacent to Dakota Avenue and the trail as the “uplands”.

During the engagement process, it also became clear that “Lorenzo” the sea serpent is a cherished part of the park. This effort embraces Lorenzo as an important icon for the park and has incorporated a logo of Lorenzo into the design process.

Logo of “Lorenzo” the sea serpent
Edge
River Edge
Connections
Connections
Reposition the park
for an evolving city
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.39 33 The guiding principles are established to guide the
ambitions and vision for San Lorenzo Park, and
accomplish the forward-thinking opportunities. The
principles reflect the sentiments and needs heard from
the diverse stakeholder groups and individuals that care about, use, and maintain the park. Future design efforts should embrace these principles as integral to the
design and future for San Lorenzo Park.

Guiding Principles Ke
ep
the park clean,
safe & secure
Create a park
that attracts the
community and
visitors
Activate
the park
Make the park
a sustainable
green space
Promote
biodiversity and
natural habitat
Make the park
uniquely Santa
Cruz & reflect
our culture
Offer a range of
activities, events,
& programs for
all ages and
abilities
Increase
visibility and
accessibility
of the park
and river
Preserve and
enhance flood
management in
the riverlands
34 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.40 The design goals are measurable
and tactical strategies for the design
to achieve the ambitious principles
for San Lorenzo Park. The goals
reflect the ideas and needs heard
from the diverse stakeholder groups
and individuals that care about,
use, and maintain the park. Future
design efforts should refer back to the
design goals to envision a park that is
beautiful, usable, cherished, fundable,
constructible, supported, and loved.

Design
Goals
Preserve
heritage trees.

Conduct restoration
projects in the
riverlands to promote
native plant species.

Include a range of
spaces for active
recreation and
different programs.

Design for
multi-modal
access.

Promote
opportunities for
environmental and
historical education.
1 5 6 7 8
2 3 4
Include a range of
spaces for passive
recreation such as
trails, picnic areas,
walking, and bird
watching.

Provide facilities
including restrooms,
drinking fountains,
waste receptacles,
and seating.

Design a park
that is sustainable
and maintainable.

Include a
playground for all
ages and abilities with
natural, climbing, and
interactive elements.

Create venues for
different size events
and festivals.

Create prominent
entries and
connections to
the park.

Connect to the river
for education, unique
encounters, and
stewardship.
9 10 11 12
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.41 35 Aerial visualization of San Lorenzo Park:
program elements, materials, and features
may vary from final conceptual design.
36 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.42 Vision
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.43 37 Conceptual Redesign
The concepts were created based on opportunities, guiding principles, and design goals to address the identified needs of the Santa Cruz community. The conceptual redesign proposes a safe, usable, and vibrant downtown park for Santa Cruz residents and visitors alike. The future San Lorenzo Park could be both a community and destination park that is transformative for Santa Cruz. The design includes site-wide elements as well as unique features to improve the park’s connectivity, accessibility, usability, navigability, sustainability, programmability, ecology, pedagogy, and inclusivity, as well as the ability to maintain the park on an on-going basis. A mix of possible programs and uses is included based on community preferences, as well as to keep the park vibrant, safe, usable, comfortable, and secure throughout the day and year. The park includes two areas: the uplands and the riverlands.

The following pages describe the design intent and features in both the uplands and riverlands. These concepts were developed through a community process. Additional outreach, studies and analyses are necessary to further refine the concepts prior to any future park project. 38 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.44

RIVERWALK

SAN LORENZO RIVER

RIVERLANDS

UPLANDS
1 2
9 7
3 8
12 13
13 15
14 14 14
5A
5B
11 10
10 10
6 4 4 4 4
16 25 50
scale (feet)
100
Legend
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 39
Prominent Entries
Existing Path
Existing Tree Proposed Tree

1. Restoration Area

2. Lawn Bowling

3. Basketball Court

4. Pickleball Court
5A. Adventure Play
5B. Tot Lot

6. Plaza

7. Lynching Memorial

8. AIDS Memorial

9. Indigenous Memorial

10. Lawn

11. Building: Restroom & F/B Kiosk

12. Building:
- Maintenance Facility & Yard
- Restroom
- Clubhouse
- Community Room

13. ADA Parking

14. Picnic

15. Post Supported Slackline

16. Peace Pole

23.45 Uplands
Uplands Description
The uplands is approximately 6.3 acres located between
Dakota Avenue, the Paradox Hotel, and the County of
Santa Cruz Government Center to the west, Branciforte
Creek to the south, Water Street to the north, and
the top of slope above the riverlands to the east. The
uplands concept is designed to support a wide variety
of recreational activities, encouraging visitors to spend time in the park rather than simply passing through. The design includes unique play, recreation, and memorial
features that reflect the unique characteristics and
history of Santa Cruz. The uplands design includes a
range of possible programs and uses to keep the park
vibrant throughout the day.

Concept Design and Layout
The design concept of the uplands was inspired
by the forms of the San Lorenzo River and Santa
Cruz Riverwalk, and the layout was derived from the
geometries of the river and site. The conceptual layout is configured to preserve existing trees to the greatest extent possible and work with existing site topography.

Pathways are oriented in the north-south and eastwest directions to promote connectivity and circulation.

Play features are grouped closer to Dakota Avenue.

Recreation, event, and sport facilities are grouped closer to the Paradox and County properties. Plazas with
public amenities are centrally located in the uplands at and connecting to prominent entries and the Chinatown
Bridge.

Potential Uses and Programs
The needs assessment and community
engagement identified possible uses and
programs for the uplands, including the
following:
• a large inclusive playground
• a medium to large flexible space for
recreation and events
• sport courts
• flexible plaza space
• a multi-purpose building & restrooms
• prominent entries
• landscape infrastructure & furnishings
• memorials & art
• planting areas
• multi-use trails
• maintenance facilities
Design Elements, Site Furnishings &
Features
Elements, furnishings, and features should
strive to minimize maintenance and operation
costs, should meet or exceed code, and
should be highly durable for an urban
downtown park condition. The elements,
furnishings, and features should be designed
and selected for inclusivity.

Art
The uplands could include locations for
permanent and rotating art pieces.

Bicycle Infrastructure
The uplands should include bicycle racks
near entries and within plazas. Bicycle repair
and water bottle filling stations could be
located near the multi-use path.

Central Plaza
The concept includes plazas centrally
located in the uplands with connections to
Dakota Avenue, the multi-use trail, and the
Chinatown Bridge. Plazas could include
fixed seating, planters, trees, bicycle
racks, drinking fountains, signage, and
landscape infrastructure. Plazas should
be fully accessible. Plaza spaces could
be flexible spaces to allow for a range of
activities including outdoor fitness, events,
rollerskating, games, pop-up programs, and
educational classes.

Earthworks
Earthworks could create variation, terraced
seating, an amphitheater, overlooks, points of
intrigue, play areas, planting areas, or other
program elements.

Fixed and Loose Furnishings
The uplands should include fixed furnishings
consisting of waste and recycling receptacles,
drinking fountains, and varied seating,
benches, and seatwalls. Seating and benches
could be located near and in plazas, near
entries, near play areas, at overlooks and
vistas, at memorials, along trails, and in picnic
areas.

Irrigation
Planting areas in the uplands including
natural turf areas should include a new
irrigation system with automated climatecontrolled sensors. 40 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.46 Basketball Lawn Bowling Pickleball Slackline
Prominent Entries
Planting Areas Signage & Interpretation Memorials
Multi-purpose Lawn Plazas
Art & Sculpture
Picnic Areas Multi-purpose Building
Playground
Mobile Device Charging
Stations & Wi-Fi
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.47 41 1" = 60'
JANUARY 25,

SITE PLAN

SAN LORENZO PARK

RIVERLANDS

UPLANDS
1 2
9 7
3 8
12 13
13 15
14 14 14
5A
5B
11 10
10 10
6 4 4 4 4
16 25 50
scale (feet)
100
Landscape Infrastructure
Plazas in the uplands could include free public
wifi, mobile device charging stations, and food
truck hook-up stations. Power hook-ups could be
provided in plazas and near the multi-purpose
lawn for events. The uplands could include security
cameras for safety measures.

Lighting
Lighting could be provided in the uplands along all
pathways, play areas, plazas, and sport courts. All
lighting should be dark-sky compliant and should
maximize energy efficiency
Lorenzo
Lorenzo the sea serpent sculpture should be
preserved within a prominent plaza. Play elements
should be integrated with Lorenzo where feasible.

A historical plaque documenting the history of the
sculpture could be located near Lorenzo in the
plaza.

Maintenance
A maintenance facility should be located in the
uplands. The maintenance facility may include a
building and lay down yard. Consideration should
be given to choose a location to allow for two points
of access.

Memorials
The park should include memorials in the uplands
honoring and remembering historical events and
peoples such as the peace pole, lynching plaque,
Chinatown Bridge, bear and bull fights, AIDS
memorial, indigenous history, and San Lorenzo Park
history. Existing plaques and memorials should be
preserved within the park and integrated into future
landscaping improvements.

Multi-Purpose Buildings
The uplands could include one to two buildings to
provide public restrooms, a multi-purpose space for
community use, a food and beverage kiosk, storage
space for City departments, and maintenance
facilities.

Multi-Purpose Lawn
The multi-purpose lawn should be made of
natural turf and include drainage and irrigation.

In the concept, the multi-purpose lawn is divided
into multiple spaces that can be used for smaller
activities or combined for larger footprint activities.

The lawn could accommodate a range of uses,
including pick-up sports, events, pop-up events,
outdoor fitness, picnics, among other uses.
42 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report
Legend
Uplands Area
Prominent Entries
Existing Path
Existing Tree Proposed Tree

1. Restoration Area

2. Lawn Bowling

3. Basketball Court

4. Pickleball Court
5A. Adventure Play
5B. Tot Lot

6. Plaza

7. Lynching Memorial

8. AIDS Memorial

9. Indigenous Memorial

10. Lawn

11. Building: Restroom & F/B Kiosk

12. Building:
- Maintenance Facility & Yard
- Restroom
- Clubhouse
- Community Room

13. ADA Parking

14. Picnic

15. Post Supported Slackline

16. Peace Pole

23.48 Parking
Future consideration should be given to incorporate
ADA parking spaces. Some options include adding
them within the Dakota Avenue right-of-way near a
prominent entryway and adjacent to the multi-use
trail at the end of Director’s Row.

Pathways
Pathways and trails in the uplands should be
designed to be multi-modal and ADA accessible.

Pathways and trails should minimize conflicts
between users. Pathways could be concrete,
asphalt, stabilized decomposed granite, or pavers.

Decomposed granite is not preferred given the
short lifespan, but could be used for short-term
improvements or less frequented areas.

Picnic Areas
Multiple picnic areas could be provided in the
uplands.

Planting & Trees
Planting areas in the uplands could include natural
turf, raised planters, meadow-like planting, and
trees. Plants and trees should be native or adapted
to the Santa Cruz climate, be low-maintenance and
low-water use, include seasonal color, and promote
habitat. Future work near trees would need to be
performed following the direction and supervision of
an arborist.

Playground
The playground should be an inclusive playground
for a range of ages and abilities. It may include
interpretive/educational play, nature play, physical
play, and/or sensory play. Play elements could
include a mix of swings, climbing, slides, bridges,
balancing, water, STEM, and an overlook viewing
the confluence. The play area could include play
structures, play or fitness equipment, pathways,
earthworks, play elements and pathways
incorporated into earthworks, and planting. Play
elements could make reference to the unique
features and destinations of Santa Cruz to make
the park uniquely Santa Cruz. Play surfacing
would need to meet playground safety and ADA
requirements. The perimeter of the play areas could
be defined by planting, earthworks, and fencing
with gates for a complete perimeter and accessible
entries.

Prominent Entries
The uplands design concept includes both
prominent and regular park entries. Prominent
entries could include signage and way-finding
elements to orient users to the site as well as
gateway markers, distinct paving, or other measures
to signify the entries.

Sport Courts
The uplands design concept includes a basketball
court and four pickleball courts. The City should
try to preserve and refresh the lawn bowling court.

City funds should only be used if the improvements
will lead to significant use and community benefit.

Courts could include a perimeter fence with
accessible gates and access. A pole supported
slackline could be installed for recreation.

Stormwater Treatments
To manage and treat stormwater runoff from
hardscape surfaces in the uplands, bioretention
areas could be located in the uplands.

Surface Treatments & Drainage
Hardscape areas in the uplands should be durable
and ADA accessible. Surface materials for pathways
and trails could include asphalt, concrete, stabilized
decomposed granite, or pavers. Surface materials
for plazas could include concrete or pavers.

Hardscape areas should include adequate drainage
including slot drains, trench drains, area drains, or
others to prevent ponding or flooding.

Signage
Signage should be included throughout the park
for orientation, way-finding, interpretive, and
educational purposes. Signage elements should be
easy to read, accessible, and in multiple languages.

The signage palette should be consistent with
the park character and design, and consistent
throughout the park.

Walls & Terraces
Low walls or terraces could be needed in the
uplands to accommodate grade changes, support a
landform, create terraced seating, or define an edge.

Walls should be made of concrete, rock, metal, or
stone.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.49 43 Aerial visualization of the San Lorenzo Park redesign concepts. 44 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.50 Visualization of the confluence overlook and memorial concept.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.51 45 Visualization of the Lorenzo sculpture, plaza, and restroom building concepts.
46 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.52 Visualization of the picnic area near the lawn bowling facility concept.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.53 47 Visualization of the multi-use lawn and sports courts concepts. 48 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.54 Visualization of the multi-use lawn concept during an event.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.55 49 Visualization of the multi-use trail along the pickleball courts concept.
50 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.56 Visualization of the play area concept.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.57 51 The conceptual redesign of San Lorenzo Park represents a significant public investment in the future of downtown Santa Cruz. To support this vision, the design team has prepared a preliminary range of probable construction costs for key project components. This Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimate offers an early cost framework based on the conceptual-level design.

The estimate draws upon multiple sources, including:
• Reference information from the City of Santa Cruz Parks Master Plan • Cost data from recent park and open space projects across the Bay Area • Input from architectural and play equipment consultants • Industry-standard pricing and current construction trends • Allowances for elements where design detail is not yet defined The estimate includes direct construction costs, contractor general conditions, overhead and profit, bonding, insurance, and a design contingency appropriate to this early phase. Soft costs—such as design fees, permitting, and temporary site measures—are not included.

This estimate is intended to inform future planning, funding strategies, and prioritization. It will be refined over time as the design advances and the level of detail increases.

At this time, the riverlands portion of the project is not included in the estimate, as there is not yet sufficient design detail to support a preliminary cost assessment.

SITE IMPROVEMENTS (Includes Surfacing, Signage, Site Furnishings, Play and Recreational Equipment, Park Infrastructure & Utilities, Planting; Excludes Buildings):

Cost Per Acre: $2.2 Million-$3 Million
Cost Per Square Foot: $50-$70
SPECIFIC PROGRAM ELEMENT ALLOWANCES:

Playground Equipment: $1.7 Million - $2.5 Million
Specialty Play Items: $550,000 - 750,000
Play Surfacing and Fencing: $500,000-$1 Million
Resurfacing for Lawn Bowling: $425,000 - $575,000
BUILDING FACILITY ALLOWANCES:

Maintenance Building: $2.7 Million - $3.7 Million
Restroom Building: $1.4 Million - $2 Million
TOTAL UPLANDS REDESIGN ROM ESTIMATE RANGE:
$18.9 Million - $25.6 Million
Uplands Preliminary Cost Estimate
52 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.58 Riverlands
Riverlands Description
The riverlands is approximately 6.8 acres located
between San Lorenzo River to the west, Water
Street to the north, Branciforte Creek to the
south, and the uplands to the east. The riverlands
has an existing mature riparian tree canopy along
the river, as well as a confluence at San Lorenzo
River and Branciforte Creek, which are unique
ecological features. The once large turf area
between the mature trees and toe of slope is no
longer maintained and is overgrown. There are
three primary access points from the uplands
area.

The riverlands, situated lower in elevation than
the uplands, provide critical flood management
for the San Lorenzo River as part of the levee
system up- and down-stream from San Lorenzo
Park. The ability for the river channel in the
riverlands to manage large flood volumes
depends on the amount of roughness in the river
channel, the available freeboard on either side
of the river, and the total river volume available.

The ability of the riverlands to manage flood
events will influence what types of improvements
can occur in the riverlands. Major flood events
impact the riverlands and require maintenance
for removing debris and restoring river areas after
storm events. Improvements in the riverlands
should be able to withstand high-velocity flood
events and should take into consideration
maintenance costs and strategies for maintaining
and managing improvements in the riverlands
long-term.

The Santa Cruz community has used the
riverlands previously for recreation, bird
watching, events, disc golf, encampments, and
illegal activities. Improvements in the riverlands
should take into consideration strategies to
keep the riverlands safe and prevent illegal or
unwanted activities from occurring.

The redesign process identified preferences for
the riverlands ranging from natural restoration to
a combination of restoration and multi-purpose
space for events and recreation. The community
also voiced desires for water access, trails,
and small beaches. The design team explored
multiple initial concepts for the riverlands and
identified, with Planning Commission support,
that further study and analysis is needed
to evaluate feasible design options for the
riverlands. This redesign concept maximizes
restoration and includes optionality for other uses
and programs.

Concept Design and Layout
The riverlands concept is designed to maximize
restoration, provide access for on-going
maintenance and stewardship, and space for
activities related to restoration including bird
watching, hiking, educational opportunities, and
stewardship. Future projects in the riverlands
should include flood management, restoration,
trails, and access points. The layout allows
flexibility for the design to evolve with future
study. In future design phases, the design team
should collaborate with Native American tribal
communities to develop the preferred restoration
design and best practices for the riverlands.

Stewardship should be encouraged for on-going
maintenance of the riverlands.

Preferred Uses and Programs
Future planning and design efforts should
provide limited public access to connect people
to nature while maintaining/protecting the
goals for the riverlands restoration. The needs
assessment and community engagement
identified that the riverlands could include the
following:
• restoration of riparian corridor
• hiking trails
• maintenance access paths
• river overlooks
• multi-purpose lawn area
53 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.59 Natives + Habitat Trails
Maintenance Access Stewardship
Bird watching Education
Native American Tribal Communities
The Riverlands offers a valuable opportunity
to collaborate with local Native American
tribal communities in honoring and sharing
the cultural heritage of the historic Uypi tribe.

These partnerships could support ecological
restoration through a shared vision of
management which demonstrates traditional
stewardship, harvesting practices, and sense of
place that reflect the Uypi people’s connection
to the land and its resources.

Ceremonial gatherings may serve as a way
to honor, heal, and reconnect with the land.

Educational and interpretive programs could
highlight the traditions, stories, and lifeways
of the area’s original inhabitants. Ancestral
village structures could illustrate traditional
building practices. Demonstration “gardens”
where Indigenous stewardship practices are
showcased can serve mother earth, the public,
and other Tribes who call the San Lorenzo
riverlands home.

Irrigation
Temporary irrigation could be provided for
native planting areas. If temporary irrigation
is not feasible, time plantings close to the wet
season or water manually until seedlings are
established. No permanent irrigation should be
installed in the riverlands.

Long-Term Management
The riverlands should be designed for longterm health and to promote biodiversity and ecological functions. Long-term management
strategies should monitor the riverlands on
an on-going basis. Habitat areas could be
closed to the public to preserve habitat, protect
wildlife, and deter illegal activities. The design
should take into consideration operational
efficiency such that the City of Santa Cruz can
maintain the riverlands with available staffing
and resources. The City should engage
adopt-a-park groups, community groups,
non-profit organizations, Native American
tribal communities, and the public in activities
to plan, design, care for, and maintain the
riverlands.

Maintenance Pathways
The existing vehicular access should be
maintained to the riverlands for on-going
maintenance and restoration efforts. Access
should be restricted to maintenance,
stewardship, and emergency vehicular
activities only. Develop a natural restoration
plan to ensure plantings enhance biodiversity,
manage flooding, and inlcude in the overall
plan.

Multi-Purpose Lawn Area
Should future study and analysis identify
the need for a multi-purpose space in the
riverlands, it needs to be designed to withstand
high velocity flood conditions and to be ADA
accessible.

San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.60 54 1" = 60'
JANUARY 25,

SITE PLAN

SAN LORENZO PARK

SAN LORENZO RIVER

RIVERLANDS

UPLANDS
1 2
9 7
3 8
12 13
13 15
14 14 14
5A
5B
11 10
10 10
6 4 4 4 4
16 Vegetation Management Plan
A Vegetation Management Plan should provide
guidance for natural restoration strategies that
support wildlife and biodiversity, while also
managing vegetation for flood management. Key
topics may include the selection and placement of
native plants and trees, soil preparation, invasive
species control, native species restoration, mowing
and mulching practices, and debris removal
following major storm events.

The plan must also account for practical, longterm maintenance and regulatory requirements and ensure that no actions compromise flood
management objectives.

Trails
The riverlands could include hiking trails or
footpaths for pedestrians only. Trails should be ADA
accessible. Trails could provide access to overlooks,
view the river, or water access where feasible.

Wet Areas
Wet areas could be considered for the riverlands,
such as seasonal wetlands, depressions for
ponding, side channels, inlets, alcoves, or others
to increase the river channel volume and promote
niche habitats in the riverlands.
25 50
scale (feet)
100
Legend
Prominent Entries
Existing Path
Existing Tree Proposed Tree

1. Restoration Area

2. Lawn Bowling

3. Basketball Court

4. Pickleball Court
5A. Adventure Play
5B. Tot Lot

6. Plaza

7. Lynching Memorial

8. AIDS Memorial

9. Indigenous Memorial

10. Lawn

11. Building: Restroom & F/B Kiosk

12. Building:
- Maintenance Facility & Yard
- Restroom
- Clubhouse
- Community Room

13. ADA Parking

14. Picnic

15. Post Supported Slackline

16. Peace Pole
San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 55
Riverlands Area

23.61 Beyond the limits of San Lorenzo Park, other improvements and strategies are recommended to enhance the experience and potential of the park. The following recommendations should be explored by the City:

Art
Consider locating art along primary access routes to San Lorenzo Park in the form of an artwalk or public art collection that serves as a way-finding element and a destination to attract visitors to downtown and the park.

County
The City and County should collaborate to maximize the potential use of the parcels near the park. Additionally, future development could consider improvements to access and visibility to the park from Ocean Street.

Pathways
Pathways leading to San Lorenzo Park on perimeter streets, the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, and downtown could be improved with enhanced paving and embedded elements to guide people to San Lorenzo Park, while also creating legibility and consistent design elements throughout the downtown district and riverwalk.

Parking
Street parking on Dakota Avenue is limited for visitors to the park. Parking is available in Parking Garage #10 on River Street and occasionally in the County Parking Lot for events. On-site signage and online information should be improved to inform visitors of parking options. The City and County should collaborate to maximize the potential to utilize parking in the County lot during non-peak periods for park access.

Safety
Safety measures are needed to keep San Lorenzo park safe for all users.

Safety infrastructure should be installed in the park including security cameras, lighting, visible site lines, gates, and signage. Park hours should be considered to promote activity throughout the day and evening as a safety measure. The City could consider a park host, park stewards, and/or patrols for an on-going presence in the park and eyes on the park.

Shelters
The sanctioned camps in San Lorenzo Park posed safety, environmental, and infrastructure challenges and cannot be permitted. Shelters are needed elsewhere in Santa Cruz.

Signage & Way-finding
Signage should be improved along the Santa Cruz Riverwalk and throughout downtown to guide people to San Lorenzo Park. Consider a consistent signage program for consistency, clarity, and legibility throughout downtown and the Santa Cruz Riverwalk.

Recommendations for Surrounding Areas
56 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.62 San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report 23.63 57

23.64 Brittany Inclan
From: A Webb <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, September 3, 2025 12:30 PM
To: Fred Keeley; City Council
Cc: Noah Downing
Subject: RE: San Lorenzo Park - Final Report on Concept designs Attachments: Untitled.webp; Untitled.webp
Dear Mayor and City Council,
I understand this is to be part of the Sept 9th agenda, which is not yet posted so I don't have an Item number.

It's concerning that the Report's mention of the existing Pond simply writes it off.

Many citizens submitted comments with a desire to keep this important, historic, unique, and universally enjoyable feature. The Pond, with its amazing large lily pads and flowers, was an attraction to wildlife - both local and migrating - and people of all physical abilities and ages! With the duck pond stage and bridge, especially during the many wonderful community events on the stage, people's enjoyment was enhanced by the appearance of a large turtle or two, and a Great Blue Heron, a greenback heron, or a white egret, hunting fish directly in front them, and landing to rest on a large lily pad with their massive flowers. The ducks and migrating geese with their chicks attracted to it brought great joy to all. All of these things brought wildlife learning opportunities for children, and calm and enjoyment to all, especially the elderly.

Its unacceptable to eliminate this Pond, bridge and stage.

We need all kinds of environmental features, not just added sterile hardscapes, concrete and small patches of lawn, and courts where everything is "doing" vs. relaxing and observing wildlife. Keep the lawn bowling, playground upgrades, even pickle-ball courts down by the courthouse (better than next to housing!) but consider noise buffers at each end of those courts at the least - that sound really travels, and is irritating to most people. Set reasonable court use hours so as not to be a constant noise, avoid early morning, or nighttime. More suggestions for reducing noise impacts at this link:
https://productiveparks.com/solutions-noisy-pickleballcourts#:~:text=Equipment%20used%20to%20play%20pickleball,ranks%20at%20abou t%2070%20dBA.

The Duck Pond is a living feature that must be saved as should all of the treasured heritage trees.

Make the investment to repair the Pond, stage and bridge, and KEEP this valuable community treasure and its long history alive! It's doable! Sincerely,
Anita Webb,
Santa Cruz citizen and
Park user of the last 40 years, with 4 generations of family members

23.65 THIS is part of history and community:

23.66 Brittany Inclan
From: Athena Arcayan <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 5, 2025 8:15 AM
To: City Council
Cc: Athena Arcayan
Subject: Restoration for San Lorenzo Park
Dear City Council,
What a blessing to have received grant money for the restoration of San Lorenzo Park! Please commit to full restoration. This riparian habitat is very special as it is along the migratory path of many birds and home to much biodiversity.

The redesign project report does not clearly commit to restoration. Please:
1) Commit to protecting the entire 6.4 acre flood plain as a protected ecosystem located on this critical wetland area. Sports fields and other human activities can occur elsewhere in the city on less sensitive habitat.
2) Commit to actively consulting the Amah Mutsun Tribal band throughout the process. Regularly share updates with them and actively ask for their feedback.

Thank you and I am excited to know that the city is working towards restoration of this very precious area!

23.67 Brittany Inclan
From: B Liberty Flidais <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 5, 2025 11:50 AM
To: City Council
Subject: San Lorenzo Park restoration funding
Dear City Council,
I was delighted to hear that we received grant money for the restoration of San Lorenzo Park! Please commit to full restoration, centering the needs of the environment so we can maintain balance and right relation with all the lifeforms that called this land home. This riparian habitat is very special as it is along the migratory path of many birds and home to much biodiversity.

The redesign project report does not clearly commit to restoration. Please:

1. Commit to protecting the entire 6.4 acre flood plain as a protected ecosystem located on this critical wetland area. Sports fields and other human activities can occur elsewhere in the city on less sensitive habitat.

2. Commit to actively consulting the Amah Mutsun Tribal band throughout the process. Regularly share updates with them and actively ask for their feedback.

Thank you and I am excited to know that the city is working towards restoration of this very precious area! ✧
Liberty

23.68 Brittany Inclan
From: Brett Garrett <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 5, 2025 3:51 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Item 23: San Lorenzo Park
Dear Mayor Keeley and members of City Council,
Congratulations on securing grant funding for the restoration of San Lorenzo Park.

Please commit to protecting the entire 6.4 acre floodplain as a protected ecosystem and restoring this critical wetland area as much as possible to natural habitat.

Please commit to actively consulting the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band throughout the process.

Sincerely,
Brett Garrett

23.69 Brittany Inclan
From: Ami Chen Mills-Naim <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:21 AM
To: Susie O'Hara; Fred Keeley; Gabriela Trigueiro; Renee Golder; Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson; Scott Newsome; Sonja Brunner
Cc: City Council
Subject: San Lorenzo Park and Benchlands, a history
Dear Council Members and Mayor:

I've been following the Benchlands restoration project for some time, attending most of the Parks and Rec Commission meetings and also speaking with Amah Mutsun Tribal Band Chair Valentin Lopez, along with Parks and Rec staff.

I wanted to share this in-depth article I wrote about the years-long process so far with you all, as a backgrounder before your next meeting: https://momentoftruth.substack.com/p/whither-thebenchlands (You do not need to subscribe to this Substack. You can click "No Thanks" and go to the article. But I recommend a subscription!)
You will be hearing a proposal from City Parks and Rec staff at the next council meeting. I, personally, deeply hope you will consider the value of restoring riparian habitat along the river and containing human activities for the sake of other species (we lose 200-250 species per day on this Earth) and restoring some sovereignty to Indigenous groups--with whom healing for all of us would go a long way toward a more equitable society and a healthier ecosystems for our children.

With all the development happening on the other side of the river, this would be a nice counter-balance, and allow Mother Nature some room to breathe.

Thank you so much. There is much more in the article.

Yours Truly,
Ami Chen Mills
Author, Trainer, Coach & Producer/Host for
"Moment of Truth with Ami Chen Mills,”
Moment of Truth Show Page, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Podcasts, Spotify ... And now, a new Substack! Moment of Truth Dispatch.

Ami's coaching and training practice, writings, YouTube Channel, books, & events calendar: www.AmiChen.com

23.70 To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

23.71 Brittany Inclan
From: Jane Orbuch <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 7, 2025 8:34 AM
To: City Council
Subject: San Lorenzo park Redesign Report
9-7-25
Dear City Council Members,
Thanks for your encouragement of public participation in the San Lorenzo Park Redesign process. Generally speaking, Noah Downing and the Park and Rec Department staff created a positive process encouraging all stakeholders to participate and present ideas and concerns; however, it would have been helpful to get more than a few days notice about this Tuesday’s meeting on approving the San Lorenzo Park Redesign Final Report so more community members and organizations could have time to review the document and respond.

Nonetheless, the overall the plan for the park redesign looks good especially for the uplands and seems to address community needs with recreation opportunities, playgrounds, picnic and meeting spaces.

My concern is with the Riverland's design. I believe it should be maintained as permanent riparian habitat and as a refuge for birds and other wildlife. I think a multipurpose space should NOT be a part of this project as it will interfere with the preservation of one of the only riparian areas remaining along the lower San Lorenzo River. I hope this is explicitly stated in the project final report. The Riverlands should be a place for the community and all the new residents of downtown to reconnect with the river and refresh their spirits with nature.

Thanks for your consideration,
Jane Orbuch
Frequent levee biker, naturalist and county resident

23.72 Brittany Inclan
From: Roland Saher <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 7, 2025 6:03 PM
To: City Council
Subject: river restoration
Dear council members and Mayor of Santa Cruz City,
I want to ask you
1) to make a clear commitment to safeguard wildlife and the entire project of 6.4 acres; do not include any activity or structures that might interfere with the integrity of the whole project. The current language is not clear enough.
2) to make a clear commitment to fully include tribal, environmental and other stakeholders so that there is ongoing and active collaboration with them; currently, there is no clear commitment to that end.

Thank you.

Roland Saher

23.73 Brittany Inclan
From: Sylvia Patience <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, September 7, 2025 7:04 PM
To: City Council
Subject: San Lorenzo park
Dear council members,
In considering plans for restoration of the benchlands, please commit to working with native tribes and the environmental community to develop a plan which preserves/restores the flood plain area. Full restoration of the area that does not incorporate such activities as an amphitheater or soccer field is essential in order to support the natural wildlife of the area.

Thank you for the work you do and I hope the benchlands can be fully restored as part of the river floodplain.

Sincerely,
Sylvia Patience
--
https://sylviapatience.wordpress.com/

23.74 Brittany Inclan
From: Erica Stanojevic <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 7:57 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Full restoration of San Lorenzo Park
Dear City Council,
What a blessing to have received grant money for the restoration of San Lorenzo Park! Please commit to full restoration. This riparian habitat is very special as it is along the migratory path of many birds and home to much biodiversity.

The redesign project report does not clearly commit to restoration. Please:

2. Commit to actively consulting the Amah Mutsun Tribal band throughout the process. Regularly share updates with them and actively ask for their feedback.

Thank you and I am excited to know that the city is working towards restoration of this very precious area! Blessings,
Erica Rubio

23.75 Brittany Inclan
From: Peter Gelblum <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 9:06 AM
To: City Council; Fred Keeley
Subject: Item 23 on 9/9 City Council Meeting Agenda
I write to urge you to maximize the natural facets of the San Lorenzo River Restoration plan, rather than the human uses. There is only one river that winds through the City; there are other places to build playgrounds and event spaces. Particularly with the enormous mass of new buildings on the other side of the river, the people who live and visit here need and will appreciate having a place of natural beauty to look at and enjoy.

Thank you for your consideration.

Peter Gelblum
Santa Cruz County resident

23.76 Brittany Inclan
From: Kristen Sandel <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 9:59 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Public Comment Re: San Lorenzo Park Redesign/Riverlands Restoration Attachments: VWC comment re SLP redesign 9-8-2025.docx
September 8, 2025
[email protected]
Dear Santa Cruz City Council Members,
I am writing to strongly support full restoration of the Riverlands portion of San Lorenzo Park as a native riparian forest in its entirety (6.4 acres), and ask that the City Council work towards preservation of existing habitat as part of the redesign of San Lorenzo Park.

Because San Lorenzo Park is so closely connected with the river itself, it’s important to recognize that the river is a major factor in any future community uses of the Riverlands, and to retain the ecological features which make this section of the San Lorenzo River a viable urban wildlife habitat. Due to the requirements to maintain the levee and control seasonal flooding as much as possible, the Riverlands is one of the few sections of the San Lorenzo downtown which is still accessible to wildlife as habitat and available to residents as a place to observe that wildlife. Despite its small size, it is a valuable section of the park and offers an ecologically dense wetland area for birds and other wildlife.

In terms of the park itself, I appreciate that the final redesign report acknowledges the Riverlands as an area which will experience repeated and sometimes significant seasonal floods, and thus requires a lowmaintenance and ecologically sensitive approach to any work done in that section of San Lorenzo Park. With the rest of San Lorenzo Park as a place to offer community facilities and activities, the Riverlands can be approached as a restoration and wildlife area. This allows the city to lessen ecological impacts and focus infrastructure investments on the upper portion of the park, which is more suited to resident use and events.

Any necessary infrastructure in the Riverlands should be strictly for maintenance access and safety. Please don’t include any facilities or event infrastructure in the Riverlands which would disrupt it as a wildlife habitat or prevent a full restoration of the area as a riparian forest.

I also strongly support the city’s ongoing work to collaborate with local tribal representatives and with local environmental advocates and stakeholders. Thank you for recognizing the importance of the San Lorenzo River and the Riverlands as a valuable riparian area in the City.

Sincerely,
Kristen Sandel, Co-Chair
Valley Women’s Club Environmental Committee

23.77 September 8, 2025
[email protected]
Dear Santa Cruz City Council Members,
I am writing to strongly support full restoration of the Riverlands portion of San Lorenzo Park as a native riparian forest in its entirety (6.4 acres), and ask that the City Council work towards preservation of existing habitat as part of the redesign of San Lorenzo Park.

Sincerely,
Kristen Sandel, Co-Chair
Valley Women’s Club Environmental Committee

23.78 Brittany Inclan
From: Noah Downing
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 10:37 AM
Subject: FW: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
From: Stephen Svete <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 29, 2025 11:22 AM
To: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Re: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****
Looks great, Noah. The plan is comprehensive and has some excellent features, particularly the play area and the pickleball additions!
I would suggest one important access feature be conisdered: widening the Chinatown bridge. This ped bridge is the primary active transportation pathway to Abbott Square and the downtown. The facility is outdated and does not even meet Caltrans multi-purpose trail standards (10 feet width) and it clearly feels pinched when using the facility. I realize this may be a separate project, but how about a signature new bridge, like the Calatrava piece in Redding? On the downtown side, enhanced pedestrian pathways into the Pacific Avenue corridor are also warranted. Please feel free to contact me to discuss.

Stephen Svete, Board of Directors
Bike Santa Cruz County
805-701-4245
On Fri, Aug 29, 2025 at 10:33 AM Noah Downing <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear Community Member,
The Parks and Recreation Department has completed the San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report, which includes the vision, guiding principles, design goals, and design concepts. Staff will be requesting that the City Council approve the report at the September 9, 2025 City Council Meeting. The San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report is attached for your review.

The meeting agenda and staff report for the September 9, 2025 City Council Meeting will be uploaded to the following link on Thursday, September 4, 2025:
https://ecm.cityofsantacruz.com/OnBaseAgendaOnline/Meetings/Search?dropid=4&mtids=103%2C104%2C1 05%2C106.

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign project webpage will be updated next Tuesday to include this information.

23.79 Parks and Recreation staff recognize that participating in these projects requires a lot of your time and effort.

We sincerely hope you feel your input has meaningfully contributed to shaping the vision and recommendations.

Thank you,
Noah Downing
Park Planner
City of Santa Cruz | Parks and Recreation
831-420-5362

--
Stephen M Svete

23.80 Brittany Inclan
From: Noah Downing
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 10:37 AM
Subject: FW: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
From: Stephen Svete <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 29, 2025 11:22 AM
To: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Re: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****
Looks great, Noah. The plan is comprehensive and has some excellent features, particularly the play area and the pickleball additions!
I would suggest one important access feature be conisdered: widening the Chinatown bridge. This ped bridge is the primary active transportation pathway to Abbott Square and the downtown. The facility is outdated and does not even meet Caltrans multi-purpose trail standards (10 feet width) and it clearly feels pinched when using the facility. I realize this may be a separate project, but how about a signature new bridge, like the Calatrava piece in Redding? On the downtown side, enhanced pedestrian pathways into the Pacific Avenue corridor are also warranted. Please feel free to contact me to discuss.

Stephen Svete, Board of Directors
Bike Santa Cruz County
805-701-4245
On Fri, Aug 29, 2025 at 10:33 AM Noah Downing <[email protected]> wrote:

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign project webpage will be updated next Tuesday to include this information.

23.81 Parks and Recreation staff recognize that participating in these projects requires a lot of your time and effort.

We sincerely hope you feel your input has meaningfully contributed to shaping the vision and recommendations.

Thank you,
Noah Downing
Park Planner
City of Santa Cruz | Parks and Recreation
831-420-5362

--
Stephen M Svete

23.82 Brittany Inclan
From: Noah Downing
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 10:43 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Item 23
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 29, 2025 12:20 PM
To: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****
I have just looked over the redesign update you put together. What a fantastic job you have done! I'm sure you spent many, many hours. It is so clear, and thorough, and everything is well explained with beautiful pictures. You have truly set the bar for how these types of proposals/visions should be presented.

Thank you for your hard work...it is very appreciated.

Kind regards,
Cece Shain
From: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 29, 2025 10:31 AM
Subject: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign project webpage will be updated next Tuesday to include this information.

Parks and Recreation staff recognize that participating in these projects requires a lot of your time and effort.

We sincerely hope you feel your input has meaningfully contributed to shaping the vision and recommendations.

Thank you,
Noah Downing
Park Planner
City of Santa Cruz | Parks and Recreation
831-420-5362

23.83 23.84
Brittany Inclan
From: Noah Downing
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 10:43 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Item 23
From: C Clarke <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, August 30, 2025 10:12 AM
To: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****
Dear Noah and other committee members, I LOVE the new design for San Lorenzo Park and hope that the vision can be brought to life. I can see the public input into this design, having attended some of the meetings myself. Thank you for listening to the community, although not everything will be acceptable to everyone, it feels to me like you've made a strong effort to address concerns and needs of all of us. I hope funding can be found to implement the plan.

Carne Clarke, Santa Cruz
On Fri, Aug 29, 2025 at 10:33 AM Noah Downing <[email protected]> wrote:

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign project webpage will be updated next Tuesday to include this information.

Parks and Recreation staff recognize that participating in these projects requires a lot of your time and effort.

We sincerely hope you feel your input has meaningfully contributed to shaping the vision and recommendations.

Thank you,

23.85 Noah Downing
Park Planner
City of Santa Cruz | Parks and Recreation
831-420-5362

23.86 Brittany Inclan
From: Noah Downing
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 10:44 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Item 23
From: geri lieby <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, August 30, 2025 9:21 AM
To: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: San Lorenzo Park Redesign Update
****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****
Wow! This looks wonderful. The playground has elements of the wonderful playground at the Presidio in SF. And basketball courts are included!
Thank you.

Geri Lieby
On Aug 29, 2025, at 10:31 AM, Noah Downing <[email protected]> wrote:

The meeting agenda and staff report for the September 9, 2025 City Council Meeting will be uploaded to the following link on Thursday, September 4, 2025: https://ecm.cityofsantacruz.com/OnBaseAgendaOnline/Meetings/Search?dropid=4&mtids =103%2C104%2C105%2C106.

The San Lorenzo Park Redesign project webpage will be updated next Tuesday to include this information.

Parks and Recreation staff recognize that participating in these projects requires a lot of your time and effort. We sincerely hope you feel your input has meaningfully contributed to shaping the vision and recommendations.

Thank you,
Noah Downing

23.87 Park Planner
City of Santa Cruz | Parks and Recreation
831-420-5362
<image001.png>

23.88 Brittany Inclan
From: Nancy Macy <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 10:44 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Riverlands Restoration: please protect the entire acreage Dear Mayor Keeley and Members of the Council,
I am speaking for the Valley Women’s Club Environmental Committee. The VWC is a 48-years active organization who is dedicated to community action, awareness and leadership in environmental, educational, social, and political concerns that affect the health and welfare of the San Lorenzo Valley and our community. A major focus is the health of the San Lorenzo River, from the mountains to the sea.

We are aware of the work to redesign San Lorenzo Park and the importance of the decisions being made now that will impact the River and its riparian corridor into the future. We Please add a commitment to protect the entire Riverlands’ acreage without including activities, events or structures that would threaten wildlife, and to an open and ongoing collaboration with all stakeholders, especialy local tribes (who are anxious to be involved) and local environmentalists whose knowledge and insights are valuable and worth of respect.

Keep the implementation of the Project a community effort. It is worth the time and money to do so. This has been proven again and again during this process.

Our concern that the future plans might still include events and structures that are unsuitable for the goal of maintaining a healthy, wildlife-supportive flood plain. Please resist those detrimental ideas.

Thank you for your attention to our concerns, which are shared by so many others even closer to the project.

Respectfully yours,
Nancy B. Macy, Chair
Environmental Committee
Valley Women’s Club of San Lorenzo Valley, Inc. (501(c)3) www.valleywomensclub.org
831/338-6578 home
831/345-1555 cell

23.89 Brittany Inclan
From: jill wynn <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 11:24 AM
To: City Council; Sonja Brunner
Subject: ITEM 23: San Lorenzo Park redesign
City Council:

As one of the many new member of the lawn bowling club, I enthusiastically support the Parks and Recreation Department in its efforts to bring new life to San Lorenzo Park.

This upcoming weekend, members of the Santa Cruz Lawn Bowls Club will be competing to represent Santa Cruz in subsequent national and international tournaments. It’s exciting to be a member of a growing club with several accomplished members.

One suggestion from a new member of the lawn bowls club: It seems appropriate for the city to be aware of lawn bowling tournaments played in Santa Cruz. I volunteered at a tournament on August 16th which included bowlers from San Francisco, Palo Alto, Oakland, San Jose and other clubs. A family of one of the San Jose tournament players was afraid to traverse the area between the lawn bowling club and the playground.

As I recently witnessed a security service being present while Allegri Electric and other contractors worked near the pond, I was unsure whether it was safe to cross the populated area, but I offered to accompany the family to the playground. I look forward to discussing ways in which the city might encourage visitors from other lawn bowling clubs and their families to use all of the park, and enjoy Santa Cruz without fear.

And, I realize the difficulties of managing new human activities in the park, while returning the riverfront to a more natural environment. Please let me know if there is anything I may do to assist in these efforts.

Best Regards,
Jill Wynn
Santa Cruz

23.90 Brittany Inclan
From: John Hall <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 2:33 PM
To: City Council; Fred Keeley
Subject: San Lorenzo riverland restoriation
Dear Mayor and City Council members,
I am in touch to urge you strongly to protect the entire 6.4 acres of the Riverlands without inclusion of any activities, events or structures that would threaten wildlife and the project itself.

Of course it is tempting to treat the park as land that can be developed for recreational uses. I get that.

But the highest and best use of that land is for restoration of natural habitat, with access for the public.

It’s a special place and deserves special consideration. The city will be far the better for it in the years to come if you do the right thing now.

Thanks for your consideration,
John Hall
. . . . . . . .

John R. Hall
Apocalypse in Appalachia: An Asheville Journal
Research Professor of Sociology
University of California - Santa Cruz and Davis

23.91 Brittany Inclan
From: Barbara Riverwoman <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 2:41 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Letter regarding San Lorenzo Park Redesign
September 7, 2025
Dear Council Members,
As you know, the Parks and Recreation Department has now wisely decided to use the name Uplands when referring to the recreationally focused upper section of San Lorenzo Park, and to identify the 6.4 acres of ecologically sensitive flood plain area below the bike path as the Riverlands. This is not a simple matter of renaming. It reflects a very significant and growing awareness in our City that the wetlands area of the Park should be treated as a separate and rich ecological system that should be protected and restored without encroachment from normal recreational planning.

I hope you will take the time to watch this 2-minute clip in which UCSC environmental studies professor Karen Holl, an internationally recognized expert in forest restoration, reminds us of the shocking fact that 90% of California wetlands have been destroyed and that only 10% of wetlands still remain. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IupvXMA8vjE
Until now, our community has not been fully aware of how we have contributed to that shocking 90% statistic, how we have contributed to the endangered status of wetlands in California and here in Santa Cruz. We have not, until recently, sufficiently understood the connection between flood control, climate resiliency and the conservation value of a bio-diverse wetland ecosystem. Jessie St.

Marsh and the Riverlands are two good examples of how slowly we have moved on this issue.

23.92 The Riverlands section of the Park now exists in some kind of partially vegetated and partially degraded limbo between that 10% of wetlands that still exists and the 90% that has been destroyed. The decision that you make today regarding the Riverlands should be based on which category we want the Riverlands to belong to in the future, the destroyed or the protected. PLEASE INSIST

ON FULL RESTORATION, NOT PARTIAL RESTORATION OF THE
RIVERLANDS.

I want to invite the Council to also look at the Riverlands from the perspective of the half full cup, we have a good deal to be grateful for and build on. We should acknowledge that our community has historically been ahead of the curve in actively advocating for extensive re-vegetation on the levee itself. We can also appreciate the dense strip of native willows, alders, box elders and sycamores that already line the levee-free stretch of land along the river in the Riverlands. These plantings occurred in the early 2000’s thanks to cooperation between river activists and city officials like Bruce Van Allen and Joe Hall, early leaders that can inspire us today.

Today, we should also be grateful for the current activity of City staff in moving forward on the restoration front. Tiffany Wise-West, the City’s environmental and sustainability officer, has taken the lead in securing a $5 million NOAA grant to restore, at least to some extent, the sensitive wetlands of Jessie St.

Marsh and the Riverlands. The Parks and Recreation Department, in response to strong community interest, has done an about turn, actively embracing the concept of at least partial riparian restoration in the Riverlands.

Unfortunately, the document before you does not yet clearly commit to protecting the entire 6.4 acres of the wetland to restoration. It should do this before it is approved! (In fact, it may be forced to do this as the NOAA grant is rolled out in the next four or five years. ) I want to remind the Council

23.93 that the Parks and Recreation Commission received an outpouring of more than a hundred letters at its packed January 2024 meeting (six months before the NOAA grant) strongly supporting full rather than partial restoration of the 6.4 acres. I think that a very large number of environmentally minded people in our community have made it clear that we want more than a hybrid of half restoration and half recreation. Formal official letters of endorsement for full rather than partial restoration were received by the Commission from the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, from the local chapter of the Sierra Club, from the Santa Cruz Bird Club, and from the local chapter of the California Native Plant Society.

It has been disappointing to see that the Recommendation before you still does not make a clear commitment to full restoration of the 6.4 acre Riverlands area. To the contrary, the language of the redesign plan for the Riverlands continues to leave open the possibility of a soccer field, an amphitheatre for loud concerts, space for loud festivals, a mown lawn -- all features that were in the earliest versions of the redesign plans and have not been removed. They now appear as anachronisms. Such features would not only take up precious wetland space and be destructive to the wildlife of a restored ecological system, but they are contrary to the integrity and vision of the entire restoration project itself! Why would the community invest time and money into restoring only a fragment of the endangered wetland area and then allow activities and events that would threaten the integrity of that fragment? Why would a City allow thousands of acres of downtown flood plain land to be hardscaped and yet begrudge a relatively tiny space of 6.4 acres to be fully restored to its full status as a protected wetland?
I would request that the Recommendation before you be revised to read that the entire 6.4 acres of the Riverlands will be given the status of protected open space and endangered wetland and that no activities or events that threaten a protected wetland area will be permissible within that space.

23.94 The above is the core of my request to the City. But since I attended the first community engagement meeting in the redesign process at the Paradox Hotel in January, 2023, I and many others have slowly come to realize what seems an even richer vision of what protection of an endangered wetland could entail in an urban context. This has come about especially through the inspiration of native wisdom. Valentin Lopez, the leader of the Amah Mutsun, emphasizes the indigenous vision of humans learning to live in harmony with nature, not separated or walled off from nature. For many of us, aware of the overwhelming threats to the wetlands of California and the world, it is tempting to want to create a restored wetland ecosystem that would be almost inaccessible to community residents and visitors. But increasingly many feel that this would be to lose another great potential of a small riparian forest uniquely positioned in the middle of an urban area. This ecosystem should be fiercely protected, yes, but can it not also be sensitively managed to allow easy access for the appreciation and enjoyment of nature by a wide range of people who might otherwise not have access to the joys and healing of nature. I feel that a centrally located, easily accessible woodland space would be a desirable place for parents with young children, for seniors, for those with disabilities, for those without transportation to outlying natural spaces, for the wounded who pass through the courthouse every day, for struggling teens needing unstructured space, for stressed shoppers and city employees – all of whom might find enjoyment or solace in the healing power of a restored woodland near an urban center. Hiking trails throughout the restoration area would add welcome opportunities for physical exercise to the mental and spiritual benefits that a peaceful natural oasis can provide.

Finally, an urban restoration project in the Riverlands can serve an important educational value -- as a living museum of the natural world we all inhabit. I can imagine docent-led hikes through the restoration area pointing out all the aspects of a bio-diverse wetland area – the plants, the fungi, the fauna. A City commissioned study by Gary Kittleson in November, 2015, of birds on the urban river identified 103 species on the river in a short period! If the duck pond

23.95 has to be sacrificed, perhaps it might be possible to create a more interesting, instructive and less expensive alternative – an accessible inlet/pond/lagoon that connects to and is cleansed by the river. Such a site would allow visitors to appreciate a much wider range of riparian birds in their natural setting rather than the mostly mallards that frequent the duck pond, often drawn there by visitors offering food not healthy for wildlife.

I began by quoting Karen Holl, the restoration expert. I will end with a quote from her as well. Although she is a worldwide leader and advocate of restoration, she also advocates the importance of using restoration as a tool for helping people love and value our natural world. She specifically advises that urban restoration areas “can offer to adults and children the chance to go out and actually interact with nature in these urban areas.”
I hope the Council will not make any final decisions today regarding the duck pond or public access to the restoration area until the Parks and Recreation Department and the community have a chance to have a productive conversation about this. There may be a gem of a yet unimagined win/win solution if we commit to such a dialogue. Moving too fast may jeopardize the best outcome.

In short, please insist on full restoration, not partial restoration. Please consider the aspect of physical, mental, spiritual and educational benefits that can accompany access to nature. And please do not make any final decisions regarding the duck pond and public access, related issues and deserving of more community discussion.
.

Thank you for reading this far!
Sincerely,
Barbara Riverwoman
[email protected]

23.96 23.97
Brittany Inclan
From: Ann R. Thryft <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 3:15 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Please approve full restoration, not partial restoration, of Riverlands Dear City Council,
I write to you as a low-income senior citizen of Santa Cruz County, because the San Lorenzo River runs through the San Lorenzo Valley, where I live. It is OUR river, too. And as a county citizen, I also use the Riverlands.

When you review the staff’s revised San Lorenzo Park redesign plan, please approve full restoration, not partial restoration, of the entire 6.4 acres of the Riverlands without inclusion of any activities, events or structures that would threaten or disturb wildlife and the integrity of the Riverlands Restoration project itself. The language of the Recommendation does not make this commitment clear, so this commitment must be made clear.

Equally important is the ever-present need to insist on full, ongoing and active collaboration of the City with local tribes, local environmentalists, and all stakeholders, including the disabled, seniors, low-income folks, AND County residents such as myself, as we explore other difficult issues like how much public access will be planned for the restoration area. The language of the
Recommendation does not make this commitment, either, so this commitment must also be made.

Thank you.

23.98 Sincerely,
Ann Thryft
15520 Big Basin Way
Boulder Creek, California 95006

23.99 Brittany Inclan
From: Maren Sinclair Hurn <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 4:02 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Riverland restoration
Dear valued members of service to our beautiful city:

Please follow the guidelines proposed by Friends of Wetlands Restoration to have an amazing, unique gift for both locals and tourists.

Especially, I want the City to support an ongoing collaboration with the local native tribes.

I believe this will be part of the healing of past injustices. Not only before HW 17 was built, was there a toll road, but even with $, the natives were denied passage! This route had been used for hundreds of years by local tribes to trade goods with each other.

Thanks so much for taking note.

Sincerely,
Maren S Hurn
2120 N Pacific Ave Spc 79
Santa Cruz, Ca 95060

23.100
Brittany Inclan
From: jesse may <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 4:24 PM
To: City Council
Subject: ITEM 23: San Lorenzo Park redesign
City Council,
I'm proud to be a member of the Santa Cruz Bowls Club, a club that has been playing in the park for over 60 years, a host of national championships, and home to a current Team USA member.

Having traveled across the country and internationally competing in lawn bowling tournaments, I can confidently say San Lorenzo park is home to a truly world class green. Unfortunately, the green is currently located in a not so nice park. More than a few of our members have quit coming because they feel unsafe walking through the park.

Social interaction and sense of community at bowling clubs have been shown to improve mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of loneliness.

I'm in favor of Noah and the Parks and Rec department's vision for revitalizing the park.

Jesse May
President
Santa Cruz Bowls Club

23.101
Brittany Inclan
From: Gillian Greensite <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 4:34 PM
To: City Council; Fred Keeley; Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson; Renee Golder; Scott Newsome; Sonja Brunner; Susie O'Hara; Gabriela Trigueiro
Subject: Agenda Item #23 San Lorenzo Park Redesign: A plea for the Duck Pond Dear Mayor, Vice Mayor and City Council members,
The duck pond is a beloved feature of San Lorenzo Park. This sentiment was captured by the community survey in which retaining the duck pond was of highest priority. It is depressing to read in the Final Report that the pond is recommended for removal.

Generations of young children, mine included, have delighted in getting up close to the various bird species that visit the pond. Children are often accompanied by grandparents. The pond provides a safe, accessible wildlife resource for both. Many of the children who visit the pond are from the low-income, Spanish speaking nearby homes. Seeing the birds and occasional turtle up close is a rare opportunity to develop a love for nature. If inclusion and equity have any meaning beyond slogans, retaining the duck pond would be a priority.

The entry from the Final Report, copied in italics below, strikes me as casually dismissive of the pond's long history of providing generations of children with delight in nature. My comments on that entry are:
 If a guiding principle is to activate the park, why devote 6.4 acres to riparian restoration?  The pond offers far more than visual appeal and a focal point. It is a nature treasure for small children.
 Small children’s delight in seeing and feeding the birds is far from “passive.” Another guiding principle is to activate the park. While the pond may offer visual appeal and a focal point, the presence of an approximately ½ acre pond in the middle of the park is a passive use and does not inherently provide active recreation opportunities.

Given the apparent disinterest in saving the pond, the claim that its repair is infeasible does not ring true to me. My late husband, John Bergwall was a parks maintenance worker for the County Parks for 37 years. I saw him fix a friends pond which had more serious issues than degraded liner, concrete, pump and filtration problems. Where’s there a will, there’s a way.

I hope, on behalf of a huge segment of the community, that you will see fit to save the San Lorenzo duck pond for current and future generations of small children and their feathered friends.

Thank you,
Gillian

23.102
Brittany Inclan
From: Noah Downing
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 4:54 PM
To: City Council
Subject: FW: Keep the San Lorenzo river flood plain natural please From: Barbara Hanson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 8, 2025 1:00 PM
To: Noah Downing <[email protected]>
Subject: Keep the San Lorenzo river flood plain natural please ****CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.****

1. Protection of the entire 6.4 acres of the Riverlands without inclusion of any activities, events or structures that would threaten wildlife and the project itself. (The language of the Recommendation does not make this commitment! We want a clear commitment.)

2. Ongoing and active collaboration with local tribes, local environmentalists and all stakeholders in imagining and developing how the restoration plan will unfold. (The language of the Recommendation does not make this commitment. We need a clear commitment.)
Barbara Hanson CLTC
www.Barbara.LTC
[email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/SLVcaregiver
POB 1595 Felton CA 95018-1595
CA Lic 0715625
831 335 4949

23.103

SAN LORENZO PARK CONCEPTUAL REDESIGN

FINAL REPORT
September 9, 2025 City Council Meeting

23.104
AGENDA
• PLANNING CONTEXT
• ITERATIVE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT PROCESS
• SAN LORENZO PARK REDESIGN FINAL REPORT
• STAFF’S RECOMMENDATION

23.105
Planning Context • Community Park – Intended to serve
the entire community and offer
unique facilities
• Centrally located – A Downtown Park!
• Uplands –
• Outdated infrastructure. Constructed
in 1964
• Existing facilities do not promote
extended periods of use
• Riverlands –
• Formerly used as an event space
• Part of the flood control system for
the levee
• Only section of the river south of
Hwy 1 without a levee. Trees provide
canopy coverage above the river
• 2030 Parks Master Plan – Consider a
comprehensive renovation of the
park

23.106

ITERATIVE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT PROCESS
Needs Assessment – Existing Conditions and Community Needs Overarching Guiding Principles, Design Goals, and Potential Programs
Three Options for Layout and Use Concepts
Two Options for Layout and Use
Concepts
Recommended Option
for Layout and Use
Concept
Final Report

23.107

NEEDS ASSESSMENT

ENGAGEMENT
• 1,322 online survey responses
• 17 initial stakeholder meetings
• 73 emailed comments
• 72 community meeting attendees
Key Takeaways
• Safety concerns
• Desire for improved playgrounds, pickleball courts,
opportunities for sports, events, and natural restoration • Include both active and quieter experiences

23.108
Guiding Principles Design Goals • Keep the park clean, safe, and secure • Make the park uniquely Santa Cruz and
reflect our culture
• Activate the park
• Make the park a sustainable green space
for everyone
• Promote biodiversity and natural habitat
• Create a park that attracts the community
and visitors
• Offer a range of activities, events, and
programs for all ages and abilities
• Increase visibility and accessibility of the
park and river
• Preserve and enhance flood management
in the riverlands
• Design a park that is sustainable and
maintainable
• Include a range of spaces for passive
recreation such as trails, picnic areas,
walking, and bird watching
• Include a playground for all ages and
abilities with natural, climbing, and
interactive elements
• Provide facilities including restrooms,
drinking fountains, waste receptacles, and
seating
• Conduct restoration projects in the
riverlands to promote native plant species
• Include a range of spaces for active
recreation and different programs
• Promote opportunities for environmental
and historical education
• Connect to the river for education, unique
encounters, and stewardship
• Create prominent entries and connections
to the park
• Create venues for different size events
and festivals
• Design for multi-modal access
• Preserve heritage trees
City Council
Approval on
August 8, 2023

23.109
COMMUNITY MEETING #2 – 38 ATTENDEES

23.110

23.111
ONLINE SURVEY #2 – 811 RESPONSES

23.112

23.113

23.114
STAFF’S USE AND LAYOUT RECOMMENDATION AT THE JANUARY 8, 2024 PARKS AND RECREATION

MEETING
• Continue the development of the
riverlands section until comprehensive
restoration analysis is available
• Identify and preserve lawn bowling within
the park
• Locate and design an Aids Memorial within
the park
• Work to include an upland pond as a
feature in the park
• Engage with indigenous groups
• Focus on daytime pickleball use only
• Support the upland amphitheater
Parks and Recreation Commission
Direction

23.115
JUNE 9, 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING
The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously recommended the City Council accept the San Lorenzo Park Conceptual Redesign Final Report to help guide future planning efforts and to provide limited public access to the Riverlands to connect people to nature while maintaining/protecting the goals of the Riverlands restoration (4 in favor, 3 absent)

23.116

SAN LORENZO PARK CONCEPTUAL

REDESIGN FINAL REPORT
Presents a vision and concepts for redesigning
San Lorenzo Park
• Based on extensive community outreach
• Study and analysis helps guide future planning
efforts, but concepts are not set in stone
• Additional funding, study, outreach, and CEQA
review are necessary

23.117

RIVERLANDS CONCEPT
Prioritizes natural restoration
• Trail access. No more events
• Vegetation Management Plan to guide natural restoration strategies that support wildlife and biodiversity, while also managing vegetation for flood management
• Opportunities to collaborate with Native American Tribal Communities
• NOAA Resiliency Grant Award will be used to design and construct a natural restoration, public access, and flood management project

23.118

UPLANDS CONCEPT
• Large, inclusive playground
• Restroom and food/beverage kiosk near the
plaza and playground
• Central, flexible plaza space to
accommodate a range of activities such as
roller skating, outdoor fitness, events and
recreation programs
• Multi-purpose lawn area near plaza to accommodate event space and recreational activities
• Earthworks could include creating an
amphitheater in the lawn area
• Basketball court, four pickleball courts, and
lawn bowling
• Picnic areas
• Prominent entries
• New memorials
• New community room and maintenance
building

23.119
FINAL REPORT’S LAYOUT AND USE CONCEPT

23.120

23.121

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Page 15 of 21 ends

Santa Cruz City CouncilSeptember 9, 2025

Santa Cruz City Council
September 9, 2025