COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Alex Posada, Recreation and Parks Director
DATE: February 18, 2025
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving the 2025 Off -Highway Motor Vehicle Grant Application
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Funds
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving the Recreation and Parks Department to apply for grant funds for the State of California, Department of Parks and Recreation, Off -Highway Vehicle Grant Funds.
BACKGROUND:
The Off -Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division of the California Department of Parks and Recreation administers grant funding to assist public agencies with law enforcement, education, safety, and maintenance related to off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation. These grants help communities manage off -highway vehicle use, enforce regulations, and mitigate environmental impacts caused by unauthorized riding in sensitive areas.
The City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department has previously been awarded OHV grant funding three times —twice for education and safety initiatives (Ride3 Program) and once for law enforcement. These grants have helped fund programs to educate riders on responsible OHV use and have provided resources for patrolling and enforcing laws in areas affected by off-highway vehicle activity.
Given the growing need for improv ed law enforcement capabilities in remote areas, the department seeks to secure additional funding for specialized equipment that will allow City Rangers to effectively monitor and enforce regulations in locations that are difficult to access with standard patrol vehicles.
2 DISCUSSION:
The City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department intends to apply for up to $100,000 in OHV Grant Funds to acquire additional law enforcement equipment, including off -road-capable vehicles and other necessary gear. T hese resources will improve City Rangers' ability to patrol trails, open spaces, and other areas where unauthorized OHV activity has been reported.
The increase in illegal OHV use in restricted areas has led to environmental degradation, safety hazards fo r pedestrians and cyclists, and disturbances to nearby residential neighborhoods. Expanding the department’s enforcement capabilities will allow Rangers to proactively address these issues, ensuring compliance with City ordinances while protecting natural spaces from damage.
The requested funding will be used to purchase:
Off-Road Utility Vehicles (UTVs) or All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) – To allow Rangers to access areas that are impassable by standard patrol trucks. Protective Gear and Equipment – Such as helmets, communication devices, and emergency response kits to ensure Ranger safety.
Surveillance and Monitoring Tools – Including trail cameras and GPS tracking systems to document violations and support enforcement actions.
Alternative(s)
Decline to Approve the Resolution – Resulting in City Rangers continuing to operate with existing equipment, which may limit their ability to effectively patrol and enforce regulations in difficult-to-access areas.
Fiscal Considerations
The OHV grant requires a minimum of 25% matching funds, which the City can provide using current resources. If awarded, the grant would provide up to $100,000 in funding, requiring a minimum City contribution of $25,000. These matching funds will be allocated from existing department budgets and will not require additional appropriations from the General Fund.
Impact to the Community
Approving this grant application will have a significant positive impact on the Santa Maria community by enhancing public safety, protecting natural resourc es, and improving the overall quality of life for residents. With increased law enforcement capabilities, City Rangers will be better equipped to patrol open spaces and deter illegal off -highway vehicle (OHV) activity, reducing safety hazards for pedestria ns, cyclists, and other recreational users.
ATTACHMENTS
A – Resolution - 2025 State of California Department of Parks and Recreation Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Funds