COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Brett Fulgoni, Director of Public Works
DATE: June 3, 2025
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Granting a Temporary Construction Easement to the California Department of Transportation
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the conveyance of Temporary Construction Easements from the City of Santa Maria to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to facilitate construction activities related to improvements along Main Street, (State Route 166, or SR-166), near City-owned property.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. Therefore, pursuant to Section 15060(c)(3), no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving a Temporary Construction Easement to the California Department of Transportation and authorizing the Mayor to execute all associated documents.
BACKGROUND:
California Department of Transportation ( Caltrans) is undertaking improvements to the SR-166 corridor, which require temporary access to adjacent City -owned property. To support this work, Caltrans has requested a Temporary Construction Easement (TCE) from the City.
DISCUSSION:
The TCE will allow Caltrans to temporarily access and occupy a portion of City -owned land for staging, grading, and other construction -related activities. The easement term, location, and use are detailed in the Right of Way Contract prepared by Caltrans.
Supporting documentation includes a Summary Statement and Waiver Valuation, confirming that the easements are being granted for appropriate monetary compensation.
The documents have been reviewed and approved by Public Works staff and the City Attorney’s Office. Execution of the Right of Way Contract by the Mayor will finalize the transaction and allow Caltrans to proceed according to its project timeline.
2 Alternative(s)
The City Council may choose not to approve the easemen t; however, this would delay the Caltrans project and could negatively impact regional traffic improvements.
Fiscal Considerations
Caltrans has conducted a Sales Comparison of similar easements to estimate Just Compensation and is offering the City $7,600 for the TCE. In addition, Caltrans is offering a $1,000 incentive if the City agrees to grant the TCE prior to June 5, 2025.
Impact to the Community
Granting the easement supports the timely delivery of Caltrans improvements along SR- 166, which will enhance traffic safety and circulation in the City of Santa Maria.
Other Agency Review
Caltrans District 5 Right of Way staff has prepared and approved all supporting documentation for the easement.
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Resolution
B. Letter
C. Right of Way Contract
D. Payee Data Record form