AGENDA
Meeting of the
Scotts Valley City Council
In-Person and Remote Access
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
CONTACT
INFORMATION
MEETING LOCATION POSTING
City of Scotts Valley
1 Civic Center Drive
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
(831) 440-5600
City Council Chambers
1 Civic Center Drive
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
OR
Zoom Video Conference
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83295730901
Agenda posted on 4-9-
2026 at City Hall, SV
Senior Center, SV Public
Works Building, and on the
Internet
at: www.scottsvalley.gov
ELECTED OFFICIALS CITY STAFF MEMBERS
Donna Lind, Mayor
Steve Clark, Vice Mayor
Krista Jett, Council Member
Derek Timm, Council Member
Greg Wimp, Council Member
Mali LaGoe, City Manager
Kirsten Powell, City Attorney
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDA PACKET MATERIALS
Notice regarding City Council Meetings:
The City Council meets regularly on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 1 Civic Center Drive, Scotts Valley, CA 95066, and via Zoom Webinar remote access.
Agenda and Agenda Packet Materials:
The City Council agenda and the complete agenda packet are available for review by 5:00 PM the Friday before the Wednesday meeting on the Internet at the City’s website:
www.scottsvalley.gov and in the lobby of City Hall at 1 Civic Center Drive, Scotts Valley, CA.
Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5, materials related to an agenda item, submitted after distribution of the agenda packet, are available for public inspection in the lobby of City Hall during normal business hours, Monday-Friday, 8am-12 pm and 1-5 pm. In accordance with AB 1344, such documents will be posted on the City’s website at www.scottsvalley.gov.
Public Participation:
The meeting will be available on Zoom and livestreamed to the City of Scotts Valley’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cityofscottsvalley
For those wishing to participate via Zoom you can join the following ways:
Zoom Webinar meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83295730901 Or dial one of these numbers: (669) 900-9128 or (669) 444-9171 Webinar ID: 832 9573 0901
City Council Meeting Agenda Page 2
Date: April 15, 2026
Whether attendance is in-person or remote, you will be given opportunities to provide public comment at the appropriate times throughout the meeting. The time limit is up to 3 minutes for an individual, or 5 minutes for someone who is representing a group of three or more, at the discretion of the Mayor. Please note that this is not a question-and-answer time, but simply a time to provide comments to the Council. At the appropriate times during the meeting for public comment, on items not on the agenda, and on specific agenda items, the Mayor will announce that public comment will be accepted.
How to comment via in-person attendance:
Please proceed to the public comment podium when the Mayor opens the item for public comment.
How to comment via Zoom Webinar:
Use the webinar attendee option to “raise hand” when the Mayor opens the item for public comment. The Clerk will unmute you when it is your turn. If you have joined via Zoom phone call, dial *9 or your phone to “raise your hand”, and the Clerk will unmute you when it is your turn.
CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE and MOMENT OF SILENCE
ROLL CALL
SPECIAL SET MATTER
1. Mayor's Proclamation for Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Month - May 2026
2. Mayor's Proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month - April 2026
3. Mayor's Proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week - April 12-18, 2026
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Council members are appointed to committees which are either City committees or committees dealing with other jurisdictions. This portion of the agenda allows the committee member to present oral or written reports to the Council regarding their committee assignments. It also allows the Council to make comments and give the committee member direction, as required.
CITY MANAGER REPORT
PUBLIC COMMENT TIME
City Council Meeting Agenda Page 3
Date: April 15, 2026
This is the opportunity for individuals attending in person to make oral comments to the Council on any items within the purview of the Council, which are NOT part of the Agenda. No action on the item may be taken, but the Council may request the matter be placed on a future agenda. Written public comment may be emailed to the City Clerk by 5:00 PM on the day of the meeting at [email protected].
ALTERATIONS TO CONSENT AGENDA
Council can remove or add items to the Consent Agenda.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Consent Agenda is comprised of items which are intended to be non-controversial and are approved without discussion. Persons wishing to speak on any item may request the item be moved to the Regular Agenda by raising their hand to be recognized by the Mayor. An item will only be moved from the Consent Agenda to the Regular Agenda if a City Council Member requests it to be moved and a majority of the Council agrees.
1. Approve City Council minutes of 04-01-2026
2. Consider request to display the Pride flag to commemorate Pride Month from June 1st to June 30th, 2026
3. Consider letter of support for AB 1902 (Pellerin) - Procedures for continued detention in secure youth treatment facilities
4. Resolution Creating No Parking Areas along Civic Center Drive
ALTERATIONS TO REGULAR AGENDA
Council can remove or add items to the Regular Agenda.
REGULAR AGENDA
Persons wishing to speak on any item may do so by raising their hand to be recognized by the Mayor.
1. Pathways to Possibility Youth City Liaison Program presentation
2. Ordinance Establishing No Parking Areas in the City
3. Presentation of the 2025 Scotts Valley Police Annual Activity Report
4. AB 481 Military Equipment Use Annual Report and Ordinance Renewing the Military Use Policy
City Council Meeting Agenda Page 4
Date: April 15, 2026
5. Amendment to Business License Tax Ordinance to Establish Economic Development Event Exemption and Associated Administrative Fee
6. Future Council Agenda Items
ADJOURNMENT
ADA NOTICE
The City of Scotts Valley does not discriminate against persons with disabilities. The City Council Chambers is an accessible facility. If you wish to attend a City Council meeting and require assistance such as sign language, a translator, or other special assistance or devices in order to attend and participate at the meeting, please call the City Clerk's office at (831) 440-5608 five to seven days in advance of the meeting to make arrangements for assistance. If you require the agenda of a City Council meeting be available in an alternative format consistent with a specific disability, please call the City Clerk’s Office. The California State Relay Service (TTY/VCO/HCO to Voice: English 1-800-735-2929, Spanish 1-800-855-3000; or, Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO: English 1-800-735-2922, Spanish 1-800-855-3000), provides Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf and Disabled and will provide a link between the TDD caller and users of telephone equipment.
City Council Meeting Agenda Page 5
Date: April 15, 2026
PROCEDURAL INFORMATION FOR THE PUBLIC
THE FOLLOWING IS THE PROCEDURE COUNCIL SHOULD TAKE IN
APPROVAL OF A RESOLUTION:
1. Move the Resolution number for approval.
2. Second the motion.
3. Vote by body, a roll call vote is not required.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE PROCEDURE COUNCIL SHOULD TAKE IN
INTRODUCTION/ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE:
1. Move the Ordinance number for introduction (or adoption).
2. Move the Ordinance be introduced by title only and waive the reading of the text.
3. Read the Ordinance title.
4. Second the motion.
5. Vote by body, a roll call vote is not required.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE PROCEDURE COUNCIL SHOULD TAKE IN
PUBLIC COMMENT/PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Unless otherwise determined by the presiding officer of the meeting:
1. Three minutes allowed per individual to speak.
2. Five minutes allowed per individual representing a group of three or more. ❖❖❖❖❖❖❖❖
The City of Scotts Valley does not discriminate against persons with disabilities. The City Council Chambers is an accessible facility. If you wish to attend a City Council meeting and require assistance such as sign language, a translator, or other special assistance or devices in order to attend and participate at the meeting, please call the City Clerk's office at (831) 440-5608 five to seven days in advance of the meeting to make arrangements for assistance. If you require the agenda of a City Council meeting be available in an alternative format consistent with a specific disability, please call the City Clerk’s Office. The California State Relay Service (TTY/VCO/HCO to Voice: English 1-800-735-2929, Spanish 1-800-855-3000; Voice to TTY/VCO/HCO: English 1- 800-735-2922, Spanish 1-800-855-3000; or, from or to Speech-to-Speech, English & Spanish 1- 800-854-7787), provides Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf and Disabled and will provide a link between the TDD caller and users of telephone equipment.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE and MOMENT OF SILENCE
ROLL CALL
CITY STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT:
Mali LaGoe, City Manager
Kirsten Powell, City Attorney
Jayson Rutherford, Police Chief
Rodolfo Onchi, Public Works Director
Stephanie Hill, Administrative Services Director
Taylor Bateman, Community Development
Director
Brian Froelich, Senior Planner
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
ELECTED OFFICIALS
PRESENT:
Donna Lind, Mayor
Steve Clark, Vice Mayor
Krista Jett, Council Member
Derek Timm, Council Member
Greg Wimp, Council Member
SPECIAL SET MATTER
MINUTES
Meeting of the
Scotts Valley City Council
Date: April 1, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
CONTACT
INFORMATION
MEETING LOCATION POSTING
City of Scotts Valley City Council Chambers The agenda was posted 1 Civic Center Drive 1 Civic Center Drive on 3-27-2026 at City Scotts Valley, CA Scotts Valley, CA 95066 Hall, SV Senior Center, 95066 OR SV Public Works Building,
(831) 440-5600 Zoom Video Conference and on the Internet https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83295730901 at www.scottsvalley.gov.
CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PM
The City Council meeting was called to order at 6:01 PM.
1. Mayor's Proclamation for Arts, Culture, & Creativity Month, April 2026 Mayor Lind presented the proclamation for April 2026 as Arts, Culture, & Creativity Month. Jim Brown, Executive Director for the Santa Cruz Arts Council, accepted the proclamation
City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026
2. Mayor's Proclamation for California Cities Week, April 19–26, 2026 Mayor Lind recognized April 19-26 as California Cities Week.
CM Jett, along with Mayor Lind, joined the Women Lawyers of Santa Cruz County for a meet and greet.
CM Jett attended Assemblymember Pellerin's annual Women of the Year celebration.
CM Jett, along with Vice Mayor Clark, City Manager LaGoe, and Director Bateman, attended the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) annual conference.
They attended seminars, networked with retail professionals, and promoted Scotts Valley.
CM Jett participated in the Scotts Valley High School (SVHS) Wellness Walk, and she commended SVHS student Dylan Turzak for her hard work in coordinating this amazing event.
CM Jett attended a Childrens Network Cabinet meeting where they debriefed about the Childrens Network Symposium event. The leadership group expressed gratitude for the local leaders who attended the Civic Summit, including Vice Mayor Clark. They also heard a presentation from the Friends of County Parks organization who are working to make open spaces available and accessible to everyone in the County.
CM Wimp attended Assemblymember Pellerin's annual Women of the Year celebration.
CM Wimp attended some of the surprise announcements for the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce annual awards and he noted that the Arukah Project was recognized as Organization of the Year.
CM Wimp attended the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) graduation ceremonies and enjoyed listening to the student essays. He thanked Officer King for running this program.
CM Wimp attended the Bite of Reality student event at Scotts Valley High School.
CM Wimp attended the Wellness Walk at Scotts Valley High School. He also congratulated Dylan Turzak for organizing this event and he noted that Dylan has also been recognized as Student of the Year by the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce.
This event raised $37K for the SVHS Wellness Center.
CM Wimp attended a Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) meeting where they discussed the budget.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026
CITY MANAGER REPORT
VM Clark announced that the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) has scheduled the first board meeting of the newly formed Santa Cruz County Coastal Rail.
The bylaws will be adopted at the RTC meeting on April 2 and VM Clark will serve as the Vice Chair for this board. Also, during the RTC meeting they will vote on entering into an administrative coordination and licensing agreement for a freight carrier for the lower three miles (Watsonville to Pajaro) of the rail trail.
VM Clark attended the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce's surprise announcement for Roaring Camp as Business of the Year.
VM Clark commended Chief Rutherford and the entire Police Department for another successful D.A.R.E. program.
VM Clark attended the ICSC conference.
Mayor Lind attended the RTC meeting.
Mayor Lind was honored to be able to speak at each of the three D.A.R.E. graduation ceremonies. She noted that she is a strong supporter of this collaboration between the City and the School District.
Mayor Lind attended a Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (METRO) meeting where they received the preliminary 2027-2028 budget, and she noted that they are working on a potential sales tax measure to bridge the gap in funding. They also passed a modified fare structure.
Mayor Lind announced that the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala is scheduled for May 8. She noted that the Teacher of Year is the Scotts Valley Unified School District's Counseling Team, the Organization of the Year is the Arukah Project, and the Man of the Year is Adam Cosner.
Mayor Lind reported that there was a press conference today in the Council Chambers with Congressmember Panetta regarding the grant funds for the dispatch equipment.
This morning, the City held a Press Conference in the Council Chambers thanking Congressional Representative Panetta for the $682,000 Community Project Funding grant for new dispatch equipment. The funding has started to arrive, and the equipment will be installed in the coming months.
Last week all three elementary schools held their D.A.R.E. graduations. City Manager LaGoe gave a huge thank you to the City's new School Resource Officer (SRO), Officer King, for leading the D.A.R.E. program this year.
City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026
The first session of Citizens Academy was Monday this week, and we have a great group once again. The participants toured the Scott House and learned the basics of local government and Scotts Valley’s City government.
City Manager LaGoe and Community Development Director Bateman, along with Councilmembers Clark and Jett, attended the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) annual conference last week in Monterey.
The deadline for questions on the Town Center Developer RFP was last Wednesday, and the City received a total of 28 questions. Answers will be posted to the Town Center webpage by the end of this week.
Planning is well underway for the City’s 60th Anniversary, which is August 2nd. The Summer Recreation Guide will be published soon with a full spread of the activities that the city will be hosting this summer to celebrate.
City Manager LaGoe attended the MBASIA board meeting and noted that the budget is coming in better than projected and MBASIA is outperforming other JPAs on claims, as noted by a decrease on the actuarial report for liability claims. This means that the City's premium increase won't be as much as initially forecasted, although the City will still spend well over $1M on insurance each year.
Several staff have been participating in our new procurement and contract management software training this week. This is the next module of the OpenGov platform that the City is implementing to improve our procurement responses and systemize the procurement process from Bid or RFP through contract management and purchase order tracking.
The City currently has bids posted for the Granite Creek Road Culvert Replacement and the Scotts Valley Drive/Mount Hermon Road Improvement projects.
The City will welcome a new Wastewater Operator on April 6, and an offer has been accepted for the final Dispatch position, which means the City is once again fully staffed with no vacant positions. We also promoted two dispatchers to higher responsibility positions, and they will be officially sworn into their new roles on April 15. [The following segment was an “April Fools” joke and is not to be taken as true or real] Next, an announcement that, after extensive public outreach, it has been determined that the highest and best use of the Siltanen ball fields is to immediately convert them into the largest dog park in Santa Cruz County. Off-leash dogs will be able to run and play in bliss without fear of slipping on a rogue softball or bat, and they can dig up the gopher holes to their hearts’ delight. With this change, we can then build 50 new pickleball courts at Al Shugart Park where we were planning the new dog park. These courts can be open 24/7 with permanent lights and the neighbors at Skypark won't hear a thing. This park reconfiguration solves multiple problems with a shortage of both
City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026
PUBLIC COMMENT TIME
ALTERATIONS TO CONSENT AGENDA
CONSENT AGENDA
ALTERATIONS TO REGULAR AGENDA
REGULAR AGENDA
dog and pickleball facilities in the City. However, in Skypark, the sound of pickleballs will soon be replaced by airplane traffic as the FAA has asked the City to reopen the Skypark airport in order to address the delays at SFO and SJC due to the shortage of TSA workers. A new runway will be constructed this week spanning the town center site through Skypark to accommodate small commercial flights. When walking the site with the FAA today, I was told there is some risk that some houses could have shingles blown off or a window or two broken with the planes taking off and landing so close, but at least they won't have to listen to pickleballs. Oh, and that means that soccer will be moved to Macdorsa park for the rest of this season. APRIL FOOLS! And finally, to stay informed of all these developments, follow the city on social media and sign up to receive the City's newsletter.
The following people spoke regarding their desire for Council to pursue a ban on the sale of filtered tobacco products in Scotts Valley: Katie Thompson, Morganna Johnson, Priyanka, Tara Leonard, Sunny Johnson Gutter, Darcie Connell, and Cindy Clark.
M/S: Timm/Clark
To approve the Consent Agenda with no alterations.
Carried 5/0 (AYES: Lind, Clark, Jett, Timm, Wimp)
1. Approve City Council Regular Meeting minutes of 03-18-2026 and Special Study Session minutes of 03-12-2026 and 3-13-2026
2. Appoint Jack Dilles as a public member to the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District Public Financing Authority (EIFD PFA)
3. Adoption of the Santa Cruz County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025 Update
M/S: Clark/Jett
To approve the Regular Agenda with no alterations.
Carried 5/0 (AYES: Lind, Clark, Jett, Timm, Wimp)
City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026
CLOSED SESSION SUBJECT(S)
1. Approve the Housing Element Annual Progress Report and authorize submittal of the Annual Progress Report to the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department
Brian Froelich, Senior Planner, presented this item and responded to questions from the Council. Director Bateman was also available to answer questions.
Joanne Dawid, a resident of Scotts Valley, expressed concern about the 4575 Scotts Valley Drive development.
M/S: Timm/Clark
To direct staff to make the submittal of the 2025 Annual Progress Report (APR) to the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and State Office of Planning and Research (OPR).
Carried 5/0 (AYES: Lind, Clark, Jett, Timm, Wimp)
2. Appoint new members to the Scotts Valley Parks and Recreation Advocates to take actions necessary to dissolve the Scotts Valley Parks and Recreation Advocates
M/S: Timm/Wimp
To appoint Stephanie Hill, Kendra Reed, and Taylor Bateman to the SVPRA Board of Directors, and to authorize the SVPRA Board of Directors and City staff to complete the dissolution of the SVPRA and transfer remaining assets to the City of Scotts Valley to be used for parks and recreation purposes in accordance with the SVPRA Articles of Incorporation.
Carried 5/0 (AYES: Lind, Clark, Jett, Timm, Wimp)
3. Future Council Agenda Items
CM Timm requested that the Council consider flying the Pride Flag in the month of June as done in previous years. Consensus was achieve for this as a future agenda item.
The City Council convened to closed session at 7:15 PM to discuss the following item:
1. Conference with legal counsel regarding real property negotiations Legal Authority: Government Code Section 54956.8
Location: 2 lots between 201 and 241 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley; APNs 022-601-05 and 022-601-13
Staff Present: City Manager, City Attorney
CONVENE TO CLOSED SESSION
City Council Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026
REPORT ON ACTION TAKEN DURING CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT
The City Council reconvened to open session at 7:33 PM.
The meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.
Attest:
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
Approved:
Donna Lind, Mayor
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
AGENDA ITEM 2.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Consider request to display the Pride flag to commemorate Pride Month from June 1st to June 30th, 2026
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
On June 1, 2022, the City Council adopted a Policy on Display of Flags to allow the display of government and commemorative flags. The policy prohibits third-party requests for commemorative flag displays and only allows for the display of commemorative flags when the request is brought forth by a member of the City Council to place the consideration of a specific commemorative flag on a future agenda. The decision to display the commemorative flag must then be authorized by a majority vote of the City Council at a duly noticed regular or special City Council meeting, as an expression of the City Council’s official sentiments. At the April 1, 2026, City Council meeting, Councilmember Timm requested staff to place the consideration of flying the Pride flag during the month of June 2026, commonly known as Pride Month, on an upcoming City Council agenda.
Per the City’s Policy, any commemorative flag being considered must be consistent with the current City Council recognized goals and priorities and City strategic plan. The Pride flag is consistent with Council’s Strategic Goal #3 Support a thriving city through economic development, diverse and affordable housing, recreation programs, (protecting and) promoting the City’s brand and supporting community building events.
The City Council unanimously voted to fly the Pride flag in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 during Pride Month.
FISCAL IMPACT
As the City already owns a Pride flag, there is no fiscal impact of approving flying the flag for the month of June 2026.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Council consider approval to display the Pride flag from June 1st to June 30th, 2026, to commemorate Pride Month.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Resolution No. 2014 Flag Policy
RESOLUTION NO. 2014
ADOPTING A CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY POLICY ON DISPLAY OF FLAGS WHEREAS, the City of Scotts Valley currently displays, as required by existing law, theUnited States Flag and the State of California Flag; and WHEREAS, the City of Scotts Valley does not have a formal policy regarding the display offlags; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to establish a policy that provides guidance and standards for the indoor and outdoor display of flags at City of Scotts Valley owned properties; and
WHEREAS, in adopting this Policy on Display of Flags, the City Council declares that flags and flagpoles owned or maintained by the City of Scotts Valley are not intended to serve as a forum for free expression by the public, but rather as a nonpublic forum for the display of flagsoutlined in the Policy on Display of Flags, as an expression of the City Council's official sentiments (government speech).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley approves the Policy on Display of Flags, attached and incorporated hereto as Exhibit A.
The above and foregoing resolution was duly and regularly adopted by the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley at a regular meeting held on the 1 st day of June, 2022, by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Approved:
Donna Lind, Mayor
Attest:
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
DocuSign Envelope ID: FA3976B2-39F0-4A72-80BA-3D7E1564EF01
5/26/22
CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY POLICY ON DISPLAY OF
FLAGS
The Scotts Valley City Council (hereinafter “City Council”) desires to establish a “Policy on Display of Flags at City Facilities” (hereinafter “Policy”). In adopting this Policy, the City Council declares that the City of Scott Valley’s flagpoles are not intended to serve as a forum for free expression of the public, but rather for the display of Federal, State, and City of Scotts Valley flags, and any “commemorative flag” as may be authorized by this Policy and the City Council as an expression of the City Council’s official sentiments.
I. Purpose
A. The purpose of this Policy is to establish clear guidance from the City Council regarding the indoor and outdoor display of flags at City of Scotts Valley (hereinafter“City”) facilities.
B. In adopting this Policy, the City Council declares that flagpoles owned or maintained by the City are not intended to serve as a forum for free expression by the public. Rather, such flagpoles are a non-public forum for the display of Federal, State, and City of Scotts Valley flags, and any commemorative flag (as defined by section II(C)(1) below), as authorized by the City Council and this Policy as an expression of the City Council's official sentiments (government speech).
C. The City will not display a commemorative flag based on a request from a third party, nor will the City use its flagpoles to sponsor the expression of a third party.
II. Policy
A. Conformance with Federal and State Regulations. Flags shall be displayed in accordance with all Federal and State statutes and regulations, including, but not limited to, United States Code, Title 4, Chapter 1, et seq., and California Government Code sections 430 et seq., as may be amended from time to time, and this Policy.
B. For all City owned properties (including parks), other than the Civic Center, located at One Civic Center Drive, Scotts Valley. If there is an outside flagpole, the United States Flag may be displayed and the State of California Flag may be displayed, as described in section II(A) above. If flags are displayed indoors, those flags are limited to the United States Flag and State of California Flag. Commemorative flags may not be displayed.
If such City owned property is leased and/or licensed to a third party, that third party shall not be bound by this Policy, but must comply with any Federal, State, or local laws related to display of flags.
EXHIBIT A
DocuSign Envelope ID: FA3976B2-39F0-4A72-80BA-3D7E1564EF01
5/26/22
C. Civic Center, located at One Civic Center Drive, Scotts Valley. Regarding the flagpole outside of City Hall, the United States Flag shall be displayed and the State of California Flag shall be displayed, as described in section II(A) above, as well as a “commemorative flag” (as defined by section II(C)(1)). If flags are displayed indoors of the Civic Center, thoseflags are limited to the United States Flag and State of California Flag.
1. Commemorative Flag
a. As expression of the City’s official government speech, the City Council may authorize the display of a “commemorative flag” to be displayed below any other flags on the Civic Center flagpole, located at City Hall. Only commemorative flags that comply with this Policy may be displayed. b. A commemorative flag is any flag that is consistent with this Policy and not the United States Flag or State of California Flag.
c. The City Council shall only consider a request to display such a commemorative flag if the request is made by a member of the City Council to place the discussion on theagenda for a regular or special City Council meeting. Requests to display a commemorative flag by members of the public will not be considered.
d. A majority of the City Council must agree to display the commemorative flag as part of an official City Council action at a duly noticed, Ralph M. Brown Act compliant, regular or special City Council meeting. e. Commemorative flags shall be displayed for a period of time that is reasonable or customary for the subject that is to be commemorated, but no longer than thirty-one (31) continuous days.
f. If any other flag is displayed at half-staff, the commemorative flag will also be displayed at half-staff, height limits permitting.
g. A commemorative flag will only be considered by the City Council if it is commonly identified with, and consistent with, the current City Council recognized goals and priorities and City strategic plan. The following are not allowed as commemorative flags and will not be considered by the City Council:
i. Flags of a particular religious movement or creed, to avoid the DocuSign Envelope ID: FA3976B2-39F0-4A72-80BA-3D7E1564EF01
5/26/22
appearance of City government endorsing religion or a particular religious movement or creed;
ii. Flags of a political party, to avoid the appearance of City government endorsing a political party; and
iii. Flags advocating a certain outcome in an election. h. Any approved commemorative flag will be obtained by the City.
III. Procedures
A. Consistent with section II(A), no other flag shall be placed above the United States Flag and no other flag shall be larger than the United States Flag.
B. Flags should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. The United States Flag should be hoisted first and lowered last.
C. Flags shall be displayed during operating hours on all days on which the City is open for business, and on national and state holidays. Flags may be displayed twenty-four (24) hours a day as long as they are illuminated during darkness.
D. Flags shall not be displayed during inclement weather, unless all- weather flags are used and are illuminated during darkness.
E. When flags are displayed on a single pole, the order from top to bottom shall be:
the United States Flag, the California State Flag, and if displayed and allowed by this Policy, the commemorative flag.
DocuSign Envelope ID: FA3976B2-39F0-4A72-80BA-3D7E1564EF01
AGENDA ITEM 3.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Consider letter of support for AB 1902 (Pellerin) - Procedures for continued detention in secure youth treatment facilities
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
Assembly Bill 1902, introduced by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, provides needed procedural clarity to juvenile detention extension hearings. This process permits the continued detention of certain qualifying youth offenders past the age 25.
This legislation was precipitated by a local case which involved an 8-year-old victim and a 15- year-old perpetrator/defendent. The defendant was sent to a secured youth treatment facility in 2021 and became a ward in Sonoma County. In 2024, nearing the age of 25, the Santa Cruz County District Attorney (DA) filed a petition to have an extension detention hearing because the DA felt the ward was still dangerous and continued to pose a threat to society.
The intervals between each detention hearing is currently every two years, which is troubling.
While this process applies to wards who have completed the terms of their criminal crime, it needs to be balanced against the backdrop of consideration for the victim, the victims family, the lack of rehabilitation and the cost to all involved.
The key provisions of AB 1902 are mandatory custody during proceedings, limits on delaying probable-cause hearings, use of certain hearsay evidence, trial timeline requirements, and an extended timeline for renewed detention applications (current law requires every 2 years). With regard to this last proposed provision, holding the detention hearings every two years is not only a drain on prosecutorial resources, it also forces the victims’ families to relive their trauma, and they don't get time to heal before the next hearing. The law needs to reflect compassion and care for the victims and their surviving families.
It is clear that Assemblymember Pellerin has listened to the questions and concerns raised by her constituents and has responded by introducing AB 1902.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council consider the request to submit the attached letter of support for AB 1902 and, if it so chooses, to direct Mayor Lind, on behalf of the entire City Council, to submit the attached letter to the Chair of the Assembly Public Safety Committee and to Assemblymember Pellerin.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. AB 1902 - Pellerin - Letter of Support 4-15-2026
CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY
1 Civic Center Drive • Scotts Valley • California • 95066 Phone (831) 440-5600 •www.scottsvalley.gov
The Honorable Nick Shultz
Chair, Assembly Public Safety Committee
1020 N Street, Room 111
Sacramento, CA 95814
April 2, 2026
RE: AB 1902 (Pellerin) – SUPPORT
Dear Chair Shultz,
The City of Scotts Valley writes in strong support of AB 1902 (Pellerin) that provides needed procedural clarity to juvenile detention extension hearings.
California has seen significant changes towards the treatment of juvenile offenders. This includes a prohibition on the transfer of 14 and 15-year-olds to the adult criminal system, the closure of the Division of Juvenile justice and the transfer of responsibility for the custody, treatment, and supervision of youth to the counties.
In 2015, Santa Cruz County was turned upside down when the body of 8-year-old Maddy Middleton was discovered. More shocking is that the person who committed such a horrific crime was 3 months shy of his 16 birthday.
As Scotts Valley is a neighboring community to Santa Cruz, Maddy’s case touched the heart of everyone in our community. Our hearts go out to her parents, family, friends, and neighbors.
The defendant was sent to a secured youth treatment facility in 2021 and became a ward in Sonoma County. In 2024, nearing the age of 25, the Santa Cruz County District Attorney (DA) filed a petition to have an extension detention hearing because the DA felt the ward was still dangerous and continued to pose a threat to society.
Our community is still grieving over the death of Maddy, and this hearing brought that grief to the forefront. More importantly, is that Santa Cruz County was the first county in the state to proceed with the extension detention hearing as enacted in 2021 and outlined in Welfare Institutions Code §876. There were many procedural questions that were raised during the course of the hearing that need to be clarified in statue so that future counties have more clarity.
However, what is most troubling is the short intervals between each detention hearing, currently every two years. While this process applies to wards who have completed the terms of their criminal crime, it needs to be balanced against the backdrop of consideration for the victim, the victim’s family, the lack of rehabilitation and the cost to all involved.
AB 1902 Letter of Support
City of Scotts Valley
We commend Assemblymember Pellerin for being receptive to the questions and concerns raised by her constituents and responding by authoring AB 1902.
For these reasons, The City of Scotts Valley is in strong support of AB 1902 (Pellerin) and we look forward to continuing to move through the legislative process. Please contact Donna Lind at [email protected] or (831) 438-4187 if you have questions about our position.
Sincerely,
Donna Lind, Mayor
City of Scotts Valley
cc: Assemblymember Pellerin
AGENDA ITEM 4.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Rodolfo Onchi, Public Works Director
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Resolution Creating No Parking Areas along Civic Center Drive
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
The segment of Civic Center Drive between Scotts Valley Drive and the stop-controlled intersection at the City Hall entrance presents ongoing safety concerns due to the constrained roadway width and the presence of on-street parking. To improve safety and maintain clear access, red curb (no stopping at any time) is proposed along this segment, beginning at the intersection with Scotts Valley Drive, continuing north through the intersection with the City Hall access driveway, and terminating on the north side of that intersection.
The roadway narrows to approximately 20 feet at the apex of the curve and reaches approximately 36 feet at its widest point near the intersection. With parking currently permitted on both sides, the available travel way is significantly reduced, creating pinch points, limiting sight distance, and requiring opposing vehicles to navigate single-lane conditions.
These geometric constraints make the segment unsuitable for on-street parking and support consideration of a no-parking designation to improve safety and circulation.
Purpose of the Proposed No-Parking Zone
Establishing a no-parking zone along this segment of Civic Center Drive will:
• Restore adequate lane width for two-way vehicle travel • Improve sight distance along the curve
• Reduce conflicts associated with parked vehicles
• Allow school buses to safely load and unload without obstructing both lanes • Enhance overall traffic flow and emergency access
This action is expected to significantly improve safety and circulation for all roadway users.
FISCAL IMPACT
Implementation of the proposed no-parking zone will require installation of appropriate signage and pavement markings. Associated costs include materials, labor, and traffic control during installation.
While a detailed cost estimate will be developed by the Public Works/Engineering Department,
overall costs are anticipated to be minimal and can likely be accommodated within the existing traffic operations or street maintenance budget.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt a resolution establishing a no-parking zone along Civic Center Drive between Scotts Valley Drive and the stop-controlled intersection at the City Hall entrance.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Resolution No. 1087.70 Civic Center No Parking
RESOLUTION NO. 1087.70
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY CREATING
NO PARKING AREAS ALONG PORTIONS OF CIVIC CENTER DRIVE
WHEREAS, the segment of Civic Center Drive between Scotts Valley Drive and the stopcontrolled intersection at the City Hall entrance presents ongoing safety concerns due to the constrained roadway width and the presence of on-street parking; and WHEREAS, the roadway narrows to approximately 20 feet at the apex of the curve and reaches approximately 36 feet at its widest point near the intersection; and WHEREAS, with parking currently permitted on both sides, the available travel-way is significantly reduced, creating pinch points, limiting sight distance, and requiring opposing vehicles to navigate single-lane conditions; and
WHEREAS, these geometric constraints make the segment unsuitable for on-street parking and support consideration of a no-parking designation to improve safety and circulation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley as follows:
Section 1: No person shall stop, park or leave a vehicle attended or unattended, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in cases of emergency, or in compliance with the directions of a peace officer or traffic officer on Civic Center Drive, beginning at the intersection with Scotts Valley Drive, continuing north through the intersection with the City Hall access driveway, and terminating on the north side of that intersection, as shown on the map attached hereto.
Section 2: Violations of any of the Section 1 above shall constitute an infraction and shall be punishable by a fine as defined in City of Scotts Valley's Municipal Code, Chapter 10.08, et seq.
The above and foregoing resolution was passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley at a regular meeting held on the 15th day of April, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Approved:____________________________
Donna Lind, Mayor
Attest:________________________
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
AGENDA ITEM 1.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Pathways to Possibility Youth City Liaison Program presentation
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
The Pathways to Possibility (P2P) program at Scotts Valley High School (SVHS), led by United Way, provides students with opportunities to learn about local government, community services, and civic leadership. Students attend City Council meetings, engage with elected officials, and build a deeper understanding of how municipal decisions shape their community.
Councilmember Jett, who serves as the City Council’s representative to both the Santa Cruz County Youth Action Network and the Children’s Network Cabinet, has participated in P2P meetings at SVHS and regional youth-leadership events. Through this involvement, Councilmember Jett identified an opportunity to strengthen youth civic engagement by participating in the Youth City Liaison Program.
If approved, the City would be responsible for:
• Supporting recruitment and outreach in coordination with SVHS and United Way • Participating in an orientation session for selected students • Providing mentorship through designated Council liaisons • Hosting an annual student presentation at a City Council meeting
FISCAL IMPACT
The cost of $1,300 would be paid from the General Fund.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Scotts Valley's participation in the United Way Youth City Liaison Program and authorize the allocation of $1,300 in the FY26/27 budget to support two student participants.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Youth City Liaison Program Proposal - City of Scotts Valley
Youth City Liaison Program Proposal
City of Scotts Valley | United Way Santa Cruz County
Background
United Way Santa Cruz County strengthens the well-being of children and families by expanding access to essential resources, uplifting community voices, and building strategic partnerships that create lasting impact. Our work focuses on ensuring children and youth have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Following the adoption of the Children and Youth Bill of Rights, United Way partnered with the cities of Capitola and Santa Cruz to implement Youth Liaison Programs that create structured pathways for youth engagement in local government.
In Scotts Valley, United Way currently leads the Pathways to Possibility (P2P) program at Scotts Valley High School, where students learn about local government and community support, attend City Council meetings, and engage with elected officials. Through this work, youth have strengthened their civic knowledge and connection to their community.
Building on this foundation, United Way proposes a Youth City Liaison Program in partnership with the City of Scotts Valley. The program would connect high school–aged students directly with City Council members, creating formal pathways for youth voice in local decision-making and strengthening youth-adult partnerships in local government.
Proposed Responsibilities of the City of Scotts Valley
Under this proposal, the City would:
● Provide funding to United Way to support Youth Liaison participant stipends. ○ For FY 2026–27, the proposed allocation is $1,300 ($650 per student for two students).
● Support recruitment and outreach to identify qualified Youth Liaison applicants. ● Participate in Youth Liaison Program Orientation.
● Facilitate mentorship for each Youth Liaison participant by identifying 1–2 City Council mentors:
○ Mentors would complete fingerprinting through the local school district, as required.
○ Mentors would participate in and follow the 26/27 Mentor Guide developed by United Way and meet with youth at least once per month. ○ Mentors would provide guidance to help youth refine ideas, set achievable goals, navigate challenges, and strengthen leadership and communication skills. ○ Through regular check-ins, mentors would offer constructive feedback, share professional insights, and model effective civic participation.
● Host an annual presentation during a City Council meeting where Youth Liaison participants share reflections, summarize their experience, and offer recommendations.
Proposed Responsibilities of United Way Santa Cruz County United Way would:
● Collaborate with City staff to provide the Youth Liaison Program framework and 26/27 Mentor Guide.
● Create and host the online application process, conduct outreach, and recruit liaison applicants.
● Partner with City staff on the liaison selection process. ● Conduct Youth Liaison onboarding prior to placement, including liability and media release forms, emergency contact information, and stipend documentation. ● Co-design and facilitate Youth Liaison Program Orientation with City staff. ● Provide “Working with Youth” policies and guidance for City staff and Council Members.
Administer and distribute Youth Liaison stipends.
Youth City Liaison Program: Purpose and Outcomes
The Youth City Liaison Program aims to institutionalize meaningful youth civic engagement in Scotts Valley. The program will:
● Increase youth knowledge of local government and decision-making processes ● Strengthen youth leadership and public speaking skills ● Improve youth-adult partnerships within City structures ● Advance implementation of the Children and Youth Bill of Rights ● Create long-term civic infrastructure for youth voice Through this partnership, the City of Scotts Valley and United Way aim to increase youth civic engagement and leadership, strengthen youth-adult partnerships, create sustained pathways for youth voice in decision-making, and foster long-term civic participation among Scotts Valley youth.
AGENDA ITEM 2.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM:
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Ordinance Establishing No Parking Areas in the City
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
Chapter 10.08 of the Scotts Valley Municipal Code regulates parking within the City. Currently, it does not specifically designate no parking areas within the City. No parking areas are designated in the California Vehicle but additional means of designation are appropriate. The proposed ordinance identifies the no parking areas in the City and gives the Public Works Director the ability to designate no parking areas consistent with applicable traffic engineering standards. In addition, the City Council has the ability to designate no parking areas by resolution.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with the adoption of this ordinance. If any areas are designated for no parking, minimal costs will be incurred to properly sign or mark the no parking areas.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Introduce Ordinance No. 202, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley Amending Title 10, Chapter 10.08 By Adding Secton 10.08.035 Designating No Stopping, No Parking Areas and waive the reading thereof.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Ordinance No. 202 No Parking Areas
ORDINANCE NO. 202
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY AMENDING TITLE 10, CHAPTER 10.08 BY ADDING SECTION 10.08.035
DESIGNATING NO STOPPING, NO PARKING AREAS
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY as follows:
Section 1. Title 10, Chapter 10.08 of the Scotts Valley Municipal Code is hereby amended by adopting a new Section 10.08.035 to read as follows:
“10.08.035 No stopping, no parking areas – Designations.
No operator of any vehicle shall stop, stand, park or leave standing any vehicle, whether attended or unattended, in any of the following places, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the direction of a police officer, other authorized officer or official traffic control device:
A. Within any loading zone for any purpose other than unloading or loading of passengers or materials; provided, that no stop for the loading or unloading of passengers shall be made for more than five minutes; or provided, that no stop for the loading or unloading of materials shall be made for more than 20 minutes.
B. Within a bus stop zone, unless the vehicle is a bus or a school bus.
C. In a designated “No Parking,” “No Stopping,” or any time-specific no parking or no stopping zone when signs or markings, as prescribed in California Vehicle Code Section 21458, are placed giving notice of such prohibition.
D. Within a designated on-road bicycle lane anywhere on the city street system.
E. Within any divisional or median island unless authorized and clearly indicated with appropriate signs or markings.
F. In any area where the Public Works Director determines that the parking or stopping of a vehicle would constitute a traffic hazard or would endanger life or property consistent with applicable traffic engineering standards, when such area is indicated by appropriate signs or by red paint upon the curb surface.
G. In any area established by resolution of the city council as a no parking or no stopping area, when such area is indicated by appropriate signs or by red paint upon the curb surface.”
Section 2. CEQA COMPLIANCE. The proposed amendments are exempt pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), which provides that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
The proposed amendments are adopted to restrict parking in particular areas and cannot be said to reasonably have a significant effect on the environment.
Section 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase or portion 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. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Section 4. To the extent the provisions of the Scotts Valley Municipal Code as amended by this Ordinance are substantially the same as the provisions of that Code as they read immediately prior to the adoption of this Ordinance, then those provisions shall be construed as continuations of the earlier provisions and not as new enactments.
Section 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its adoption.
Section 6. PUBLICATION. The City Clerk shall certify as to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause a summary thereof to be published within fifteen (15) days of adoption and shall post a certified copy of this Ordinance, including the vote for and against same, in the Office of the City Clerk, in accordance with Government Code Section 36933.
This Ordinance was introduced on the 15th day of April, 2026, and passed and adopted on the 6th day of May, 2026, at a duly held meeting of the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley by the following votes:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
______________________________
Donna Lind, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_________________________________
Kirsten Powell, City Attorney
AGENDA ITEM 3.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jayson Rutherford, Police Chief
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Presentation of the 2025 Scotts Valley Police Annual Activity Report
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
The presentation of the 2025 Scotts Valley Police Department Annual Activity Report includes a number of notable highlights and accomplishments throughout the year. Staff are pleased to present this annual report every year to City Council, so they may see the diligent efforts the Police Department makes to provide the highest level of public safety and community engagement.
In 2025, officers responded to 5,581 calls for service from our residents. When those calls were emergency situations, our officers were on average at the scene in two minutes and forty-five seconds after we received the initial call for help. When our officers were not responding to calls for service, they remained vigilant with 19,843 self-initiated activities to help prevent crime before it occurred.
The most notable highlight of the year was the retirement of Chief Steve Walpole in October 2025, after serving as Chief for the last eight years. Chief Walpole was responsible for many department successes during his tenure. Following his departure, Captain Jayson Rutherford was named Interim Chief of Police for several months. Interim Chief Rutherford was named Chief of Police in March 2026.
The Police Department added three new staff members to our team; two officers and one dispatcher. We focused on recruiting local talent with established ties to the area, in hopes of retaining them for years to come. The department also added three new Explorers to our Police Explorer program, bringing it up from two Explorers to five. Equally, exciting was the addition of K9 “Sam.” The K9 program had not been staffed since April 2024.
The Annual Report highlights the Police Department’s commitment to the Strategic Goals set forth by City Council. We were able to secure two Office of Traffic Safety Grants in order to assist in exceeding these goals, which mostly centered around traffic and E-Bike enforcement.
Our staff made 3,472 traffic stops, which was a 28% increase over 2024. We also conducted two DUI checkpoints, held E-Bike educational outreach classes at the local schools, and used grant money to fund overtime shifts for focused E-bike enforcement and DUI saturation patrols.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to receiving the Annual Police Activity Report
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council receive information on the 2025 Scotts Valley Police Department Annual Activity Report.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Year End Report 2025
Scotts Valley Police Chief Jayson Rutherford
SCOTTS VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT
ONE CIVIC CENTER DRIVE• SCOTTS VALLEY, CALIFORNIA 95066 • PHONE (831) 440-5670 • FAX (831) 438-6930
CHIEF OF POLICE
JAYSON RUTHERFORD
March 1, 2026
Honorable Mayor and City Council
City of Scotts Valley
1 Civic Center Drive
Scotts Valley, CA 95066
RE: 2025 Scotts Valley Police Department Activity Report Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
It is my honor and privilege to present the 2025 Scotts Valley Police Department Activity Report. As we move into 2026 and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Scotts Valley, it is important to commemorate the past, while challenging ourselves to find new and innovative ways to advance our mission of exemplary public safety and community engagement.
Our staff continued their diligent efforts to ensure Scotts Valley is the safest place to live in Santa Cruz County. Last year officers responded to 5,581 calls for service from our residents. When those calls were emergency situations, our officers were on average at the scene in two minutes and fortyfive seconds after we received the initial call for help. When our officers were not responding to calls for service, they remained vigilant with 19,843 self-initiated activities to help prevent crime before it occurred.
This past year’s main highlight was the retirement of Chief Walpole in October. The announcement came earlier than expected and I was named the Interim Chief in his stead. After several months of working closely with City Manager LaGoe and the other department leaders, I was offered the full-time Chief of Police position and excitedly accepted. As the new Chief, I was introduced to the 2025 Strategic Goals identified by council and began focusing our department efforts on exceeding these goals.
Another highlight was restarting our K9 Program with K9 Sam. It has been more than two years since we had a K9 working within our agency. This time we opted for a “Detection” only dog, versus an “Apprehension” dog. We feel it was the right choice, and Sam has already made a big impact with our crime statistics, with the community, and with our staff.
Staffing was another highlight of 2025, as we were able to stabilize our ranks more than in previous years. We hired Officer Graff, Officer Yoon, and Dispatcher Travers in 2025. We believe that shifting our attention to local talent, with well-established roots in our community, will give us greater staff longevity and greater personal investment in the success of our department.
Sincerely,
Jayson Rutherford
Chief of Police
SCOTTS VALLEY CRIME STATISTICS
YEAR TO YEAR COMPARISON 2021 TO 2025
2 DESCRIPTION 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 % OF
CHANGE
FROM 2024-
2025
PART 1 CRIMES
HOMICIDE 0 0 0 0 0 0 %
RAPE 6 3 3 3 8 167 %
ROBBERY 2 3 0 4 3 -25 %
ASSAULT 57 58 61 82 77 -6 %
BURGLARY 37 34 21 10 3 -70 %
LARCENY 106 128 124 177 178 1 %
AUTO THEFT 11 11 8 5 9 80 %
ARSON 2 0 1 2 3 50 %
TOTAL PART 1 CRIMES 221 237 221 283 281 -1 %
ALL OTHER CRIMES 503 428 359 388 361 -7 %
TOTAL CALLS FOR
SERVICE
6,033 5,655 5,718 5,342 5,581 4 %
TOTAL OFFICER
INITIATED ACTIVITY
12,965 16,745 16,637 14,875 19,843 33 %
TOTAL CITATIONS 958 1,021 1,449 1,397 1,830 31 %
NUMBER OF ARRESTS 425 570 525 508 463 -9 %
INJURY ACCIDENT 19 15 17 13 21 61 %
NON INJURY ACCIDENT 137 122 125 142 134 -6 %
FATALITY 0 0 1 0 0 0%
HIT & RUN 21 20 17 17 26 53 %
TOTAL ACCIDENTS 156* 137* 145* 155* 155* 0 %
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 22 23 19 24 25 4 %
VANDALISM/GRAFFITI 67 55 68 51 57 12 %
DRUG VIOLATIONS 79 89 81 75 73 -3 %
* Does not include Hit & Run collisions
These numbers are subject to change as persons report prior crimes after the fact.
3 SCOTTS VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT
STOP DATA 2025
What is Stop Data?
Stop Data was created by a California regulation called RIPA (Racial and Identity Profiling Act), which aims to ensure policing practices are equitable and constitutional. Officers report various demographics such as race and gender to the state through Stop Data.
4 Population Percentages
Total Black White Hispanic Asian Other Male Female
City Population
(2020 Census)
11,863 71 (1%) 9,251 (78%) 1,253 (11%) 854 (7%) 434 (3%) 5,880 5,983 County Population
(2020 Census)
273,123 2,230
(1%)
154,075
(56%)
92,921
(34%)
13,699
(5%)
10,198
(4%)
135,168 137,955
5 SCOTTS VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT
2025
Chief of Police
Captain
Investigations
Unit
Detective
Sergeant
Detective
(3)
School Resource
Officer
Communications
Services
Supervisor
EDC II
(2)
EDC I
(4)
Captain
Operations
Division
Patrol Unit
Sergeant
Team 1
Patrol Officer
(2)
Sergeant
Team 2
Patrol Officer
(2)
Sergeant
Team 3
Patrol Officer
(2)
Sergeant
Team 4
Patrol Officer
(2)
Administrative
Secretary/Analyst
6 POLICE ADMINISTRATION
The Scotts Valley Police Department Administration is responsible for the overall leadership, vision, and management of the police department. Police Administration manages the Department’s $8 million budget, as well as grant funds, equipment acquisitions, and overall training needs.
Police Administration directs the hiring of new personnel, ensures that professional standards are met, and monitors compliance with all state and federal regulatory requirements. Police administrators participate in numerous city/county events, boards, and meetings. They also collaborate closely with elected officials, the city manager, local schools, and community groups to ensure a positive and open line of communication.
Captain Scott Garner, Chief Steve Walpole, Captain Jayson Rutherford
7 OPERATIONS DIVISION
The year 2025 reflected continued professionalism, adaptability, and steady leadership within the Operations Division. As modern law enforcement evolves in response to new technologies, legislative changes, and heightened community expectations, strong field supervision remains essential. Police sergeants serve as the critical link between command staff and officers in the field, ensuring operational effectiveness, accountability, and a consistent standard of service.
Today’s sergeants balance real-time decision-making with mentorship, performance management, and community engagement. They direct complex calls for service, manage resources, reinforce policy compliance, and model professionalism. Their leadership directly influences officer development, morale, and the quality of service delivered to the public.
The Operations Division includes Patrol, Training, K9, Traffic, and Reserve Units. Patrol officers form the backbone of daily operations, responding to calls for service that range from in-progress emergencies and traffic collisions to proactive enforcement and youth engagement. The Training Unit prioritizes preparedness and professional growth through POST-compliant instruction and scenario-based exercises. The K9 Unit and Traffic Unit enhance operational capabilities through specialized enforcement, detection, and targeted traffic safety initiatives focused on collision reduction and DUI enforcement. The Reserve Unit supplements staffing and provides valuable support during special events and periods of increased staffing demand.
Captain Garner oversees day-to-day operations and supervises four patrol sergeants and eight patrol officers. Patrol personnel work twelve-hour shifts on a three/four-day rotation, typically staffed by one sergeant and two officers per shift.
Throughout the year, the Operations Division remained focused on service, accountability, officer wellness, and community partnerships. By reinforcing clear expectations and maintaining strong supervisory leadership in the field, the division continues to deliver professional, responsive, and community-centered police services with industry-leading response times.
Patrol Supervisors:
Sergeant Meredith Roberts
Sergeant Meredith Roberts has served the department
since 2016. Sergeant Roberts is currently assigned as
a Patrol Sergeant and oversees our bicycle team, peer
support team, Explorer/Reserve programs, training
manager, and our ballistic vest replacement program.
8 Sergeant Pascale Drozek
Sergeant Pascale Drozek has served the department
since 2018. Sergeant Drozek was assigned to
Investigations as the Detective Sergeant in June 2024.
She oversaw two Detectives and the School Resource
Officer.
Additionally, Sergeant Drozek continued to serve as a
Use of Force Instructor in both firearms and defensive
tactics and coordinated our Officer Wellness Program.
Sergeant Chris Galli
Sergeant Chris Galli has served the department since
2022. Sergeant Galli is currently assigned as a Patrol
Sergeant and oversees our department armory, which
includes weapons maintenance and ammunition and
equipment inventory. He also serves as a department
firearms instructor and Explorer coordinator.
Sergeant Jesse Pidcock
Sergeant Pidcock has served the department since
2022. Sergeant Pidcock is currently assigned as a
Patrol Sergeant. He also has the critical collateral
assignment of Field Training Sergeant. In 2025, the
FTO Program had two new officers successfully
complete the program, providing much needed patrol
staffing.
Sergeant Sjon Tol
Sergeant Tol has served the department since 2023.
Sergeant Tol is currently assigned as a Patrol
Sergeant. He also has the collateral assignment of
Traffic Sergeant, which includes traffic enforcement
operations, motorcycle maintenance, vehicle
abatements, and more. Sergeant Tol was responsible
for obtaining two grants from the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). These grants will provide updated equipment,
targeted DUI enforcement and DUI checkpoints, as
well as targeted E-Bike enforcement.
9 TRAINING UNIT
The Training Unit, supervised by Sergeant Meredith
Roberts, manages comprehensive instruction for all fulltime officers, reserves, and dispatchers. Sergeant Roberts ensures all programs adhere to State and Federal
mandates while also being aware of ongoing legal
changes. While California’s Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) require biennial certification in core
areas—including firearms, arrest control, and active
shooter response—our department intentionally exceeds
these minimums. We conduct multiple training sessions in each category annually, maintaining a higher standard of readiness for our community.
Department training also provides personnel
with the opportunity to explore and learn from
other agencies. During this year, the
supervisory staff training took a tour of Harbor
Patrol’s headquarters, Juvenile Probation
Center, and the Scotts Valley Wastewater
Plant. Moments like these also serve as an
opportunity for team building and camaraderie
while also learning about our partner
agencies.
Beyond state requirements, our
personnel engage in monthly roll-call
training covering critical topics like deescalation, bias and racial profiling, and use-of-force policies. This is
supplemented by rigorous monthly
testing via Lexipol Daily Training
Bulletins and The Briefing Room training
videos. To ensure specialized expertise,
officers also attend off-site courses on
complex investigations, impaired
driving, specialized traffic enforcement
and leadership. Modern policing
demands a sophisticated blend of law enforcement and social work, whether providing empathy to a victim or managing a crisis, our commitment to continuous and specialized professional development is vital.
10 FIELD TRAINING PROGRAM
Sergeant Pidcock led the Field Training
Program and successfully bridged the
gap between what new recruits learned
during the six-month long Academy
and how to apply that to our
community. During the 16-week-long
field training program, the goal is for the
new recruits to learn our Department’s
values, how to work as a fully
functioning solo officer, and to create
lasting and influential contacts with the
members of our community. We ensure
every recruit transitioning to solo patrol
was not only tactically safe but deeply
integrated into our city's culture.
This past year proved to be successful for the
future of the department as the Scotts Valley Police
Department welcomed Officer Larson Graff. Officer
Graff is an excellent addition to our agency, and he
understands the importance of community policing
and adds to our positive culture. He has been on
solo patrol since June.
The vision of the Field Training Program is to create an environment where FTOs and Trainees want to learn and succeed. Training is difficult at times, but the manner in teaching can make the difference in retention and success. By using emotional intelligence, we can determine how people best learn and understand their “why”. Once we know that, FTOs and Trainees can make significant progress in the program with the ultimate goal to be successful and have a culture of trust and consistency.
We currently have Officer Fred Yoon finishing his
FTO program and will assume solo patrol duties in
January 2026. Officer Yoon is an excellent addition
and has 8 years of experience including being a
Detective and an FTO at his previous city. In addition
to Officer Yoon, we are on track to send one Recruit
Officer to the police academy with an expected
graduation in October 2026. We look forward to
reaching full staffing levels to continue to provide the highest quality service to our community.
11 TRAFFIC UNIT
The Traffic Unit is a crucial part of the Scotts Valley Police Department’s Operations Division. Its mission is to reduce vehicular collisions and assist with the safe travel of motor vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles on our roadways. This is accomplished by providing education
and enforcement with traffic regulations.
During 2025, our Officers conducted a total of 3,472
traffic stops, a 28% increase over 2024. As a result,
1,063 citations were issued. Officers also made 208 selfinitiated arrests from these traffic stops for various violations, including driving under the influence (DUI), driving on a suspended license, and narcotics possession. This proactive enforcement and education help remind drivers to follow the rules of the roadway to ensure a safe driving experience for all.
SCHOOL ZONE ENFORCEMENT
Staff spent countless hours monitoring the
school zones during the morning drop-off
and afternoon pickup times. Officers
focused on enforcement of violations that
directly impact school zones such as redlight violations, speeding, and distracted driving.
Officers also provided education for students
who would ride bicycles to school. The
department also participated in Walk, Bike
and Roll as well as Operation Safe Passage
events that occurred during the school year.
12 DUI CHECKPOINTS
SVPD conducted two DUI checkpoints
on Mount Hermon Road at Glen Canyon
Road during 2025. As a result of these
checkpoints, over 1500 drivers were
contacted resulting in several DUI
arrests. With the success of this
checkpoint, there will be another one
conducted in the summer of 2026.
OTS GRANTS
SVPD was awarded two California Office of Traffic Safety grants. One is a “Selective Traffic Enforcement Program” grant which funds selective enforcement for things such as DUI drivers, distracted drivers, and traffic safety education for the public. The other is a “Traffic Records Improvement Project” grant which provides funding to update our records management system, provide better traffic collision data reporting, and move to a digital citation system. This data will allow for more accurate data collection so we can effectively target our enforcement in areas that see the greatest violations and collisions.
MOTOR UNIT
The motor unit dedicated their time to
conducting much of our traffic enforcement
primarily focusing on speeding, red-light
violations, and distracted driving. Their
primary focus was on citizen complaint
areas and intersections which have the
highest number of collisions to keep our
community safe. Thanks to our California
Office of Traffic Safety grants, SVPD is
expected to add a new police motorcycle
to its fleet in 2026.
13 RESERVE OFFICER UNIT
The Scotts Valley Police Department takes
great pride in hosting the region's only active
Reserve Officer Unit. This dedicated group
consists of local residents—John Hohmann,
Don Murray, David Bergman, and Kevin
Elliott—who volunteer their personal time to
serve as sworn officers. Together, these four
individuals bring a staggering 125+ years of
law enforcement experience to our streets.
In 2025 alone, our Reserve Officers
contributed 722 volunteer hours, providing
essential support to both the Patrol and
Investigation Divisions.
Their diverse responsibilities included:
Public Safety: Managing traffic for community
events and providing security for school
milestones like Graduation and
Homecoming.
Tactical Support: Assisting with vehicle
abatements and performing extra foot patrols
during busy holiday seasons.
Operational Excellence:
Representing the department at many
different Special Olympics Northern
California events.
In February 2025, the City of Scotts Valley
paused to honor a pillar of its public safety
community as Reserve Officer Don Murray
was presented with a prestigious Mayor’s
Proclamation. This recognition, presented by
Mayor Derek Timm, celebrated Murray’s
remarkable 30 years of dedicated service to
the Scotts Valley Police Department and the
residents it protects. Throughout three
decades of volunteer commitment, Murray’s
steadfast presence and professional expertise
have exemplified the spirit of community
service, proving that the heart of a small town
is often found in the tireless efforts of its long-serving guardians. The ceremony served as a heartfelt tribute to his legacy of reliability, safety, and unwavering local pride.
14 CANINE (K9) PROGRAM
The Scotts Valley Police Canine (K9) Program
originated in 1968 with this department’s first K9,
rightfully named “King.” After beginning a great
tradition and loyally serving this City, K9 King was
retired in 1972. Following in his “paw steps” came
K9 Duke, K9 Atlas, K9 Odin, K9 Xena, and now, K9 Sam! Together with his partner, K9 Officer Lipari, our newest K9 team underwent a rigorous training
program which resulted in them being certified in
narcotics detection.
During 2025, K9 Sam was involved in multiple
cases where narcotics and paraphernalia were
discovered and seized. Officer Lipari and K9 Sam
continuously work together so that Officer Lipari
can read K9 Sam’s cues when searching for
narcotics.
Additionally, K9 Officer Lipari and Sam participated
in many different public events where K9 Sam was
the most popular police department member
present. K9 Sam effectively bridges the gap
between our community members and law
enforcement officers. Inside the department,
getting a visit from K9 Sam brings a smile to
everyone’s face and he is a welcome interruption to
the day.
The Scotts Valley Police Department is always
committed to exemplary public service and the
safety of our community is of the highest
importance. The addition of K9 Sam and the
continuation of the Canine (K9) Program is a great
tradition that augments our current services and
increases our ability to protect our City, as well as
forge lasting bonds with our community.
15 ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION
Captain Jayson Rutherford leads the Administrative
Services Division, overseeing both Investigations
and Communications. Detective Sergeant Drozek
continued to lead the division in 2025 and continued
her passion for the mental and physical health of the
department. Alongside her leadership and support of
the detectives, Sgt. Drozek has championed officer
wellness by updating department resources to better
address both physical and mental health needs such
as refurbishing the gym equipment and a Health and
Wellness study through San Diego State University.
The Investigations Unit consists of a
detective sergeant, two detectives, and a
school resource officer. Although their
regular schedule is weekdays, detectives
remain available on an on-call basis to
support patrol with major incidents.
Equipped with advanced training to
manage complex cases, they oversee
investigations from initial follow-up
through final resolution. In addition to
casework, the unit plays an active role in
community engagement, demonstrating
the department’s ongoing dedication to
building positive connections with the
community.
The Scotts Valley Police Department is the only agency in the county that operates its own 9-1-1 dispatch center.
Our dispatchers serve as a critical link in public safety, answering both emergency and routine calls, coordinating officer deployment, maintaining records, processing
reports and citations, preparing media releases, property and evidence management, and assisting residents who
come to the lobby.
Beyond their critical work behind the radio, our
dispatchers are deeply committed to community
involvement. Many volunteer their time to support events such as the Junior Police Academy, National Night Out,
the Special Olympics Torch Run, and the Polar Plunge.
They value connecting with residents and strengthening
community ties whether that means passing out treats during the Annual Halloween Scavenger Hunt or lending support to local programs that help bring people together.
16 INVESTIGATIONS UNIT
The Scotts Valley Police Department’s Investigations Unit is a multifaceted unit responsible for criminal investigations and follow up, personnel recruitment and hiring, and community outreach events.
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS
For 2025, the Investigations Unit consisted of Sgt. Drozek, Det. Elliott, Det. Roberts, SRO Ahrens, Det. Brown and Analyst Johnson. Together, the team authored over 80 search warrants, and worked on numerous high-profile cases which included homicide, several sexual assaults, and the embezzlement of millions of dollars from a local business.
Investigation fundamentals include collecting evidence, interviewing victims and witnesses, authoring search warrants, and obtaining arrest warrants.
RECRUITMENT
The Investigations Unit is duly responsible for
the recruitment of new talented professionals
who wish to join our team of officers and
dispatchers. Our recruitment teams play a
pivotal role in locating the best and brightest
new minds and providing them with all the
necessary information on what the hiring
process consists of, and how they can go about
navigating said process with ease and clarity.
Some responsivities include, attending
recruitment fairs and local Police and Dispatch
Academies.
In March, officers spent the day at a local high school speaking with our youth about the exciting opportunities the field of Law Enforcement, and specifically the Scotts Valley Police Department, have to offer.
17 COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Community outreach remains a cornerstone of the
Scotts Valley Police Department’s mission to
provide exemplary public safety and enhance the
quality of life for all residents. Deepening
relationships with community members,
organizations, schools, and business owners not
only promotes transparency and trust, it also
supports collaborative problem-solving, improves
public safety outcomes, and fosters shared
responsibility for the wellbeing of our city.
At Target, the Scotts Valley Police Department
hosted Coffee with a Cop, inviting residents to sit
down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and have meaningful
conversations with local officers. These casual gatherings break down barriers and create a welcoming space for neighbors and law enforcement to connect on a personal level.
The Operation Safe Passage program
continues to play a vital role in protecting
students and families during busy school
commute hours. Through increased officer
presence around school zones, focused
traffic enforcement, and direct engagement
with parents and drivers, the Scotts Valley
Police Department works to ensure that every
child arrives at and leaves school safely.
Beyond enforcement, Operation Safe
Passage emphasizes education and
awareness—reminding motorists about the importance of slowing down, remaining attentive in school zones, and modeling safe driving behaviors. By partnering with school staff and the broader community, the program reinforces a shared commitment to student safety and demonstrates how proactive outreach can make a meaningful difference in everyday public safety.
Events like Breakfast with a Cop reflect the
Department’s commitment to meaningful
community outreach—building trust not only
through service, but through presence,
approachability, and genuine engagement.
The morning highlighted the importance of
staying connected with all members of our
community, especially our senior residents,
whose experiences and perspectives enrich
Scotts Valley as a whole.
18 Detective Roberts recently delivered a community
safety presentation at Brookdale Assisted Living
Facility continuing the Scotts Valley Police
Department’s commitment to proactive outreach.
During the session, residents and staff gathered to
learn about current crime trends, fraud and scam
prevention, and practical steps they can take to protect themselves and their personal information.
The presentation encouraged open dialogue, allowing
attendees to ask questions and share concerns in a
comfortable setting. By providing timely information and fostering direct communication, Detective Roberts
helped empower residents with the knowledge and
confidence to recognize suspicious activity and report
concerns promptly. Events like this strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and the community, ensuring that safety remains a shared responsibility.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
In August of 2025, we hosted National
Night Out, bringing neighbors and officers
together for an evening of connection and
fun. National Night Out is a nationwide
initiative that promotes strong policecommunity partnerships by creating positive opportunities for residents to meet
and engage with law enforcement. Events
like this help strengthen neighborhood
bonds and restore a true sense of
community.
Community members were invited to tour the Police
Department and the Scotts Valley Fire Department,
offering a behind-the-scenes look at the facilities,
equipment, and personnel who serve and protect the
community each day. The event also featured booths
hosted by local businesses and county service
organizations, highlighting the many resources
available to residents and showcasing the strong
partnerships that support our community.
19 To add to the welcoming atmosphere,
members of the department grilled hot dogs
and served popcorn. The event had a county
fair atmosphere, featuring family-friendly
attractions such as a bounce house, face
painting, and interactive games.
The Scotts Valley Police Department values
its strong connection with the community and
believes that hosting National Night Out each
year helps further strengthen that bond by
bringing residents and public safety personnel
together in a positive, engaging setting.
SCCACT
The Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime Team (SCCACT) is a local multi-agency task force composed of personnel from various law enforcement agencies within Santa Cruz County, including the Watsonville Police Department, Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP). SCCACT focuses on identifying, investigating, and arresting suspects involved in illegal narcotics trafficking, gang activity, and violent crime to enhance public safety.
One highlighted event was in May, when an
SVPD officer conducted a traffic stop on a
vehicle for a mechanical violation. During a
search of the vehicle, officers located both a
firearm and narcotics. This led to the driver
being arrested on scene and the case being
forwarded to our SVPD Detective assigned
to SCCACT. During a search warrant of the
subject’s house, an additional 26 firearms
and narcotics were seized.
SCCACT actively prevented the trafficking of
illegal firearms into the County of Santa Cruz
during a 2-month long investigation involving
multiple allied agencies, tracking and
monitoring a suspect who was transporting
illegal firearms from Arizona into California.
Once the suspect entered California,
SCCACT apprehended him and served
additional search warrants resulting in the
seizure 10 illegal firearms.
In 2025, SCCACT seized over 160 illegal firearms and over 100lbs of dangerous narcotics.
20 DRUG ABUSE RESISTANCE EDUCATION (D.A.R.E.)
For the past 32 years, the Scotts
Valley Police Department has
demonstrated an unwavering
commitment to our youth through the
D.A.R.E. program. Currently, the
curriculum is provided to all 5th-grade
students at Vine Hill Elementary,
Brook Knoll Elementary, and
Baymonte Christian School.
Leading these efforts for the last five years is School Resource Officer Patrick Ahrens, who brings a
personal connection to the role as a D.A.R.E.
graduate and Baymonte alumnus. The program
utilizes evidence-based lessons to equip students
with the decision-making skills necessary for a safe,
healthy lifestyle. By fostering a world where students
respect others and avoid substance abuse and
violence, SVPD continues to build vital, positive
relationships within our school community.
21 JUNIOR POLICE ACADEMY (JPA)
The Junior Police Academy is more than just a summer camp—it’s a bridge between our youth and law enforcement. Every summer, SRO Patrick Ahrens and a full support crew of department staff and volunteers transform middle schoolers into "police recruits" for an immersive, week-long academy.
Recruits dive into the world of forensics with fingerprinting and crime scene sketching, test their endurance with daily fitness drills, and watch exciting demos from our K9 and SWAT teams. These positive interactions are essential for building a foundation of trust and mutual respect in Scotts Valley.
We are proud to offer a program that not only teaches the "how" of police work but also encourages our youth to become responsible, engaged citizens.
22 COMMUNICATIONS / RECORDS UNIT
The Communications and Records Unit is made up of six Emergency Dispatch Clerks:
EDCI’s Anna-Kate Brajkovich, Rachel Wynne, and Bailey Travers, EDCII’s Hannah Bridges and Kiara Jacobsen, Services Supervisor Chloe Graham, and Administration Captain Jayson Rutherford.
Members of this unit manage a wide range
of responsibilities, with dispatching serving
as their core function. Their duties include
handling 9-1-1 emergencies, answering
administrative phone lines, routing calls to
the proper emergency and non-emergency
resources, coordinating service requests
for officers, and maintaining detailed
records. In addition, dispatch personnel
assist visitors who enter our lobby. While
many law enforcement agencies have
limited public access during certain hours,
our department remains committed to
community engagement by keeping our
lobby open around the clock, ensuring the
public can always speak directly with a
member of our team.
23 In addition to dispatch operations, the unit also oversees Records Management. Our EDCs handle far more than call-taking; they are responsible for entering a variety of reports and citations into the system while managing substantial volumes of documentation. This includes organizing and routing paperwork to the appropriate departments, maintaining orderly and accessible filing systems, and reviewing records for completeness and accuracy. Their records responsibilities also extend to processing Public Records Act requests and complying with court orders.
In 2025, the Communications Unit received 3,655 calls on our 9-1-1 lines and another 13,943 calls on our non-emergency business lines, which resulted in 5,581 calls for police service. Our average response time to emergency calls for service was two minutes and forty-five seconds.
This year our dispatchers participated
in several events such as a county
wide active shooter training, the
Special Olympics Polar Plunge,
National Night Out, and the Junior
Police Academy.
Our dispatch team had multiple achievements throughout
the year. EDCI Rachel Wynne passed her training with
flying colors, and we were able to hire another lateral dispatcher at the end of the year, EDCI Bailey Travers, who will complete her training at the beginning of 2026. In August, EDCI Rachel Wynne was chosen as employee of
the month for her proactive communication which directly contributed to advancing a significant regional investigation and demonstrated the critical role dispatchers play in
successful policing. EDCII Kiara Jacobsen also received a lifesaving award for her quick and efficient call taking and dispatching skills that helped result in officers utilizing an AED and resuscitating a patient.
The Unit also upgraded all our copper radio lines to fiber optic, and is currently working with the County RING project to upgrade our old analog radios to digital. We also have selected our NexGen CPE vendor and are in the process of completing our contract. The SVPD Communications and Records Unit is one step closer to taking vastly more accurate I3 calls, which is the next version of 911 calls, an internet protocol (or IP calls) that follows the new NexGen 911 standards.
24 VOLUNTEER UNIT
Since 1991, the Scotts Valley Police
Department has benefited from a
dedicated Volunteer Unit that
enhances the department’s ability to
serve the community. Volunteers play
a vital role in supporting both daily
operations and special initiatives,
contributing thousands of hours of
service over the years. Their
commitment strengthens the
department’s connection to the
community and allows sworn staff to
focus on core public safety
responsibilities.
Each volunteer brings unique expertise that enhances the department’s operations. Joe Bac and Konrad Baumert
support the Traffic Division by deploying the mobile speed sign throughout the city, helping raise driver awareness and promote safer roadways. Michael Cummings assists the
firearms team. John Galli maintains the department’s
classic patrol car. Berna
Bruzzone supports the
Administrative Section with
file organization and processing, contributing to efficient internal operations. Fred Wilson serves as the
department’s police chaplain, offering guidance, support, and compassion to personnel and community members
during times of need.
POLICE CHAPLAIN
Fred Wilson has served as the Scotts Valley Police Department’s chaplain for many years, offering steady support, compassion, and guidance to both our personnel and the community. He joins our officers weekly during roll call, providing encouragement and a grounding presence that strengthens the team. Fred also responds without hesitation whenever we call upon him to assist a grieving community member during some of their most difficult moments, a level of service rarely seen in modern law enforcement. His unwavering dedication to the organization and the people of Scotts Valley is deeply valued, and we are truly grateful for his continued commitment.
25 POLICE EXPLORERS
The Scotts Valley Police Department is proud
to maintain one of the few remaining law
enforcement Explorer Programs in the region,
continuing a long-standing commitment to
youth engagement and public safety
education. After months of preparation and
hard work, the department became the first
agency in Santa Cruz County to officially
relaunch a post-COVID Explorer Program,
securing Explorer Post #831 in 2025. The
Explorer Program is designed for youth ages
14–20 who are interested in pursuing a career
in public safety and want to gain meaningful, real-world experience. Participants work closely with police personnel who provide mentorship, guidance, and experiential learning opportunities. Through training, community involvement, and exposure to the daily operations of a police department, Explorers develop leadership skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of public service.
This year, the police department proudly recognized
Jacob Brazil’s four years of dedicated service,
earning the rank of Explorer Sergeant. Joining Sgt.
Brazil are Explorers Kimberly Corona, Maya Samper
Paton, Skylar Ludlow, and Matthew Furuhjelm.
Explorers participate in ride-alongs with officers,
assist with the department’s annual inspection, and
take part in the Junior Police Academy (JPA),
National Night Out, and the Cops-N-Rodders event.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
Reserve Officer Don Murray was
honored this year with a Mayor’s
Proclamation celebrating 30 years of
service and more than 7,000 volunteer
hours dedicated to the Scotts Valley
community. Reserve Murray has
consistently supported patrol staffing,
special events, DUI checkpoints, and
prisoner transport, providing
dependable service wherever needed.
He is also well known for riding through
the Vineyards on a police motorcycle
each Halloween, passing out candy
and strengthening community connections. Congratulations, Don, we are grateful for your service and look forward to many more years to come!
26 POLICE OFFICER ASSOCIATION
The Scotts Valley Police Officers Association
believes that true policing begins with a genuine
connection to the community we serve. We are
passionate about investing in the future of Scotts
Valley’s community through the active support of
local charities and youth programs.
President Meredith Roberts led the association
through the first half of the year and then
President Aaron Roberts led the remainder of
the year, continuing to prioritize the SVPOA’s
role as a proactive community partner.
The SVPOA embraces its responsibility to give back. Our members don’t just serve on the clock; they are dedicated volunteers who show up for the causes that define our community. Our commitment is rooted in compassion and care. Whether in uniform or volunteering as private citizens, the members of the SVPOA are honored to uplift the Scotts Valley community and its members to ensure it remains a vibrant, supportive place for all.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
The SVPOA is committed to Special Olympics Northern California, driven by the belief that inclusive sports create a stronger, more compassionate community. During the year, there are several time-honored traditions that help raise awareness and money for the Special Olympics.
During summers past, the
"Flame of Hope" would make
its way through the streets of
Scotts Valley, but this year, the
event was held on West Cliff
Drive so all agencies could run
together. It was a proud
moment for the department as
a large contingent of officers
and dispatchers joined the run,
embodying our shared values
of unity and inclusion.
27 The Polar Plunge is a "chilly" favorite
that continues to mobilize local support
and awareness while having fun and
jumping into the ocean.
One of the most dynamic highlights of
the summer was the "Police in Pursuit."
This high-energy competition challenges
officers from across the region to
showcase their driving skills in a headto-head battle for the fastest lap. What truly sets this event apart is the personal
investment of our members. Many
SVPOA officers compete in retired
police vehicles they have purchased
with their own funds—a testament to
their enthusiasm and willingness to go
the extra mile for a noble cause.
VALLEY CHURCHES UNITED FUNDRAISER
In collaboration with the Exchange Club, Valley Churches United, and various other community sponsors, the SVPOA proudly participated in the holiday tree lighting ceremony at the Community Center.
In the spirit of giving, officers
volunteered to collect monetary and toy
donations for Valley Churches United.
The generosity of our community was
amazing. We were able to donate
hundreds of toys and nearly $1000 in
donations to VCU. The SVPOA was
proud to be a part of such a worthwhile
and community-based organization.
28 DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
The Scotts Valley Police Department received 5,581 calls for service in 2025 and proactively initiated an additional 19,843 events, including 3,472 traffic stops. Our calls for service encompassed a diverse array of situations, including in-progress crimes, domestic disputes, thefts, burglaries, traffic accidents, narcotic-related incidents, and other criminal investigations. Additionally, we responded to non-criminal calls regarding suspicious vehicles and individuals, residential and commercial alarms, municipal code violations, and other quality-of-life matters. Throughout the year, our department also fostered many positive interactions with community members and students. Below, we highlight some of the more significant incidents that occurred:
WINTER
A male suspect was released on parole on 12/26/24. He
had served two years after being convicted of multiple
counts of sex crimes against a juvenile that he met online.
Just seven days after he was released, our Investigations Unit was alerted to the fact that this male suspect was again reaching out to the same juvenile in an attempt to meet up for further sexual acts. Only four days after we were alerted of this, our Detectives located the male
suspect and took him into custody on fresh felony
charges.
Several suspects came to Scotts Valley and burglarized
a handful of vehicles parked at the Cavallaro Transit
Center. Multiple items were stolen from the vehicles and there were hundreds of dollars’ worth of damaged
property. During the investigation, Officers were able to determine the make and model used during the crime
and alerted neighboring jurisdictions. Several days later, a Capitola Police Department Officer observed and
stopped a suspicious vehicle that matched the
description we had provided. Scotts Valley Officers
responded and were able to identify some of the stolen
property inside of the vehicle. Two subjects were
arrested and some of the stolen property was returned
to the rightful owners.
29 SPRING
SVPD Officers were dispatched to Cycle
Sport to investigate a report of
suspicious activity. The reporting party
indicated that two individuals wearing ski
masks were loitering around the building
and were associated with a U-Haul van
without a license plate. As officers
arrived in the area, the U-Haul drove
onto Whispering Pines. Officers initiated
an investigative stop, but the U-Haul fled
the scene. A pursuit ensued and ended
at Pinnacle Pass, where the U-Haul
crashed into bushes. The driver then fled on foot.
Ultimately, both suspects were apprehended without incident. During the investigation, we learned that they had rammed Cycle Sport with the U-Haul while attempting to steal several high-end bicycles. Officers recovered all stolen property and returned it to Cycle Sport, and both suspects were booked into the county jail on multiple felony charges.
This incident highlighted not only our
department’s fast response time but also
that our community members pay attention
to what is happening in their city and report
any suspicious activity. This collaboration
between our agency and community
members helps strengthen our ability to
keep our city safe!
30 SUMMER
Officers are encouraged to proactively
patrol our business centers, streets,
and neighborhoods when there are no
calls for service occurring. One
evening, Officers were conducting an
area check of a closed commercial
business center when they observed a
vehicle quickly becoming engulfed in
flames. Officers were able to assist the
elderly gentleman from his vehicle and
get assistance from the Scotts Valley
Fire Department. The coordinated
efforts between law enforcement and
the fire department ensured no other
property was damaged and no one
was injured.
With much needed growth in
Scotts Valley comes more
construction and associated
construction vehicles on our
roadway. Officers responded to a
report of a tractor trailer, filled with
cement debris from a nearby
construction site, that had tipped
over while navigating a turn at our
busiest and largest intersection.
This unfortunate circumstance
caused quite the mess on our
roadways and sidewalks and
created a significant amount of
traffic congestion. Luckily, nobody was injured and Officers were on scene assisting with traffic control which prevented any other collisions while the debris was removed from the roadway.
31 FALL
In the Fall, the Scotts Valley Police
Department teamed up with Project ASCEND,
a progressive initiative designed to divert nonviolent youth offenders away from the traditional juvenile justice system. This
program aims to provide these young
individuals with the support and resources
they need to make positive changes in their
lives. Officer Garcia made department history
as the first SVPD officer to successfully
recommend a case for diversion under this
program, showcasing his commitment to
exploring constructive alternatives for youth in
the community. His initiative not only reflects
the SVPD's dedication to innovative policing
strategies but also highlights the importance
of fostering rehabilitation rather than
punishment for young offenders.
One evening, Officers were dispatched to a
report of a female subject being thrown out
of a vehicle before the vehicle sped off in
what appeared to be a domestic violence
related incident. During the investigation,
Officers were able to get a description of
the vehicle and the name of the suspect.
Officers were also able to determine that
the Los Gatos Police Department had
recently contacted our suspect and vehicle.
Several hours later, LGPD contacted us
stating that they had located and were
detaining our suspect. SVPD Officers
responded and arrested the suspect.
32 STAFF RECOGNITION
The organization recognizes the exceptional investigations, arrests, dispatch work, and community involvement carried out by its team. It proudly honors the 2025 Employees of the Month and expresses appreciation for their dedication and professionalism.
JANUARY
Officer Ben Standen
In January, Officer Standen conducted proactive patrol work, issuing 28 citations and making 10 criminal arrests. On Jan. 20th, after a wrongway collision on Highway 17, he identified and apprehended a suspect matching the description of a hit-and-run driver during a separate attempted carjacking call, coordinating with CHP to confirm the suspects’ identities. Later that night, he safely detained an agitated individual during a mental health crisis and arrested him for felony vandalism involving three vehicles. His proactive efforts and collaboration with allied agencies led to positive outcomes for the city.
FEBRUARY
School Resource Officer Patrick Ahrens
SRO Ahrens conducted a comprehensive investigation into a restraining order violation that revealed serious offenses, including rape, false imprisonment, and kidnapping. He coordinated with patrol officers and the SCCACT team to locate and arrest the suspect on six felony charges. SRO Ahrens led interviews, gathered critical evidence, arranged a SART exam, and authored multiple search warrants that uncovered additional incriminating materials. Through extensive followup—including reviewing texts, obtaining CCTV footage, consulting medical professionals, and executing searches—he demonstrated exceptional dedication and ensured a thorough, well-documented case.
MARCH
Detective Kevin Elliott
Detective Elliott led a successful sex trafficking investigation involving a minor targeted on Snapchat, securing the suspect’s admission through a pretext call, making an arrest, and identifying three additional victims.
He also pursued a Cyber Tip related to child pornography, conducted surveillance, executed a search warrant, and arrested the suspect; that case remains ongoing. In addition to his investigative work, he supported department and community events, helping lead the “Cops N Rodders” Car Show and winning the “Police-In-Pursuit” fundraiser at the Watsonville Speedway while representing the Scotts Valley Police Department. Overall, he demonstrated strong leadership, dedication to victims, and commitment to public safety and community engagement.
33 APRIL
Chaplain Fred Wilson
Chaplain Wilson has faithfully dedicated twelve years as a reliable volunteer with the department, providing emotional and spiritual support during unattended death calls and helping grieving families. His presence allows officers to focus on investigations while ensuring compassionate care to those in mourning. Recently, he assisted in two consecutive unexpected death cases, supporting both distressed family members and checking in on officers afterward to support their wellbeing. Beyond emergencies, he regularly joins patrols to encourage and guide staff, earning widespread appreciation throughout the department.
MAY
Detective Aaron Roberts
Detective Roberts demonstrated exceptional diligence in May in leading a complex financial investigation involving over $1 million in embezzled funds from a local business. He prepared multiple search warrants, analyzed numerous bank accounts, coordinated with company leadership and attorneys, and organized extensive financial records despite challenges with uncooperative banks. Additionally, he contributed to other major cases, including felony domestic violence and high-profile commercial burglaries, by drafting warrants and analyzing GeoTrack data to support arrests.
JUNE
Officer Derek Welsh
Officer Welsh demonstrated exceptional work ethic, initiative, and dedication to professional growth throughout June. His thorough and well-documented investigation of a burglary at Jia Tella’s restaurant showcased his proactive approach, particularly his decision to follow up on a key lead that led to valuable surveillance footage and the identification of a suspect through social media. He also collaborated effectively with Santa Clara Detectives to further the case. His consistent performance, teamwork, and commitment to justice reflect the highest standards of the Scotts Valley Police Department.
34 JULY
Detective Forrest Brown
Detective Brown has significantly enhanced county safety through his proactive law enforcement efforts. This year, he wrote 26 search warrants, recovering 74 illegal firearms. Notably, he dismantled a firearms trafficking organization using a confidential informant and cell phone data, coordinating with the Santa Clara Firearm Task Force and San Jose Police SWAT to execute simultaneous warrants and seize 20 firearms. In June, he also assisted SCCACT and SVPD in arresting a prohibited person with firearms and drugs, personally drafting the warrant and organizing the operation, demonstrating initiative and impactful results.
AUGUST
EDCI Rachel Wynne
EDCI Wynne consistently demonstrates strong dispatching skills, situational awareness, and professionalism. In August, she recognized that a suspect near McDonald’s matched a sketch from the Santa Cruz Police Department related to an active sexual assault case. She quickly relayed the information to officers and investigators, leading to confirmation of the suspect’s identity and aiding multiple investigations.
Throughout her shift, Wynne effectively managed routine calls and maintained clear communication between shifts. Her attentiveness and initiative directly supported a major regional investigation and exemplified the high standards of the Scotts Valley Police Department.
SEPTEMBER
Captain Scott Garner
Captain Garner spearheaded a major upgrade to the City’s police radio system after the 2022 failure of the primary channel due to aging copper lines. Facing a costly fiber optic replacement, he coordinated with the Santa Cruz County Radio Communications Manager and AT&T to secure a no-cost fiber installation at key sites, including Cadillac Tower, Lodato Tower, Mt. Hermon Tower, and NETCOM (SCR911). The 12–16 month project modernized the City’s radio infrastructure, providing reliable service, built-in redundancy between primary towers, and P25 compliance readiness, while avoiding significant capital and operational expenses and strengthening public safety communications.
35 OCTOBER
Detective Aaron Roberts
Detective Roberts demonstrated investigative skill, professionalism, and teamwork, effectively managing complex cases while providing strong support to Patrol as both an officer and Officer in Charge. This month, he led a multi-million-dollar embezzlement case, authored search warrants, uncovered hidden accounts, froze over $1 million in assets, and secured an arrest and restitution. He also led a death investigation ruled a homicide by neglect, coordinating warrants, reviewing extensive evidence, and submitting a comprehensive report for charging consideration. Additionally, Detective Roberts advanced a burglary case by identifying and linking additional suspects, resulting in a prosecutable case.
NOVEMBER
Officer Nick Stoeberl
Officer Stoeberl demonstrated outstanding initiative and productivity, making 19 arrests on dayshift, including five DUIs and two felonies.
Several DUI arrests involved extremely high BAC levels, likely preventing serious harm. During a traffic stop, he apprehended a suspect with multiple warrants, seized 70 grams of cocaine, secured a search warrant for the suspect’s phone, and uncovered additional evidence that led to enhanced charges through follow-up investigation.
He also investigated a hate crime at a local business, asking effective questions that led to an arrest and earning the appreciation of the business owner. In addition, he mentored newer officers in complex Drug DUI investigations and actively supported the Explorers program.
DECEMBER
Officer Larson Graff
Officer Graff demonstrated exceptional dedication and initiative over the past year by actively enforcing the City’s parking ordinances, leading to the removal of numerous long-abandoned trailers and vehicles. His efforts helped reduce environmental hazards, health risks, traffic congestion, and parking shortages, improving overall city conditions. In addition, Officer Graff’s rapid response to a medical emergency at a local restaurant—arriving in under a minute and providing life-saving aid—directly resulted in the survival of an unconscious subject. His proactive policing and swift emergency actions highlight outstanding service and impact on the community.
36 2025 EXCHANGE CLUB OF SCOTTS VALLEY
POLICE EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
The Scotts Valley Police Department has selected Detective Aaron Roberts for the 2025 Employee of the Year award due to his outstanding contributions to our department and exceptional dedication to his role as Adult Detective. His investigations into numerous high-profile and complex cases led to multiple arrests and millions of dollars in property recovered. His tireless efforts have had a profound impact on our success as an agency.
Detective Roberts’ dedication to his role, the Investigations Team, and the department are remarkable. In addition to his investigations expertise, he routinely covers patrol as the Officer In Charge when there is no Sergeant and does not hesitate to share his investigative knowledge with other officers. It is for these reasons, and many more, that he is more than deserving of the Exchange Club’s 2025 Police Employee of the Year.
37 SPECIAL TRIBUTE
CHIEF STEPHEN WALPOLE JR.
The Scotts Valley Police Department honors Chief
Stephen Walpole Jr., who retired in October 2025 after 12 years with our agency, serving the last eight years of his career as Chief of Police. Chief Walpole is a life-long resident of the City of Scotts Valley and a 30-year veteran in law enforcement.
Chief Walpole joined the Scotts Valley Police Department in 2014 as a Lieutenant. While in that role he re-started the department’s Police K9 Program, which had been
inactive for the past 30 years. He also started the Police Explorer Program and brought in high school aged teens
interested in law enforcement into the department as
volunteers. Both programs are still active today and
continue to thrive.
In 2017, Chief Walpole was promoted to the rank of Chief and during his tenure, he managed several unique challenges, which included the response to COVID-19, the evacuation of the city due to the CZU Fire, and the first ever recorded tornado touchdown in the city.
While leading the department, Chief Walpole also served as the Chairperson for the Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime Team, the Chairperson for the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, the Treasurer for the Santa Cruz County Police Chiefs’ Association, and was one of the founding members of the Santa Cruz County Police Chaplains Group. He is a member of the Scotts Valley Exchange Club and a past member of the Scotts Valley Rotary Club.
During Chief Walpole’s tenure as Chief of Police, he received the Special Olympics “Award of Excellence” in 2021 for his support of the Special Olympics of Northern California, and in 2025, Chief Walpole received the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce “Man of the Year Award.” Chief Walpole implemented the department’s first body camera and in-car camera system to provide better accountability with the public. He also upgraded the department’s website and social media presence to improve communication with the community.
Chief Walpole was extremely proud of the men and women of the Scotts Valley Police Department and considered it a privilege to have served as their Chief of Police. After retirement, Chief Walpole plans to stay in the area and continue to volunteer in the community he has called home his entire life.
AGENDA ITEM 4.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Scott Garner, Police Captain
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: AB 481 Military Equipment Use Annual Report and Ordinance Renewing the Military Use Policy
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
California Assembly Bill 481 ("AB 481"), codified in Government Code sections 7070 through 7075, required a law enforcement agency (LEA) to obtain approval from the applicable governing body, via adoption of a “military equipment” use policy by ordinance, prior to the LEA funding, acquiring, or using military equipment no later than May 1, 2022. The City complied with AB 481 by having the Scotts Valley Police Department (“SVPD”) create a policy regarding the use of military equipment and adopting it by Ordinance No. 22-200 on May 18, 2022. In accordance with AB 481, the ordinance was renewed in May 2023 (Ordinance No. 22-200.1), May 2024 (Ordinance No. 22-200.2), and May 2025 (Ordinance No. 22-200.3) to reaffirm the policy.
AB 481 also requires law enforcement agencies to present an annual report to their governing body consisting of a summary of how each type of equipment was used and the purpose of that use; quantity possessed of each type of equipment; annual costs for each type of equipment; summary of complaints or concerns received for each type of equipment; information disclosing violations of military equipment policies and actions taken in response, as well as results of internal audits; and plans to acquire additional military equipment in the coming year, and the quantity sought.
The SVPD prepared an annual report and on March 16, 2026, held a public meeting to discuss and answer any questions from the public regarding the annual report. The meeting was held in the Council Chambers and no community members attended. The annual report proposes replacing three outdated Bushmaster rifles with three new Colt rifles.
In addition to the annual report, AB 481 also requires the City Council to, within a year of the initial approval, and at least annually thereafter, review the ordinance establishing the military use policy. As was done in 2023, 2024, and 2025 in order to comply with this requirement, staff is recommending that the City Council introduce and waive further reading of Ordinance No. 22-200.4 approving Lexipol Policy 706 pertaining to the funding, acquisition, and use of military equipment as mandated by Assembly Bill 481.
FISCAL IMPACT
Authorization of the replacement of three new outfitted Colt rifles will cost approximately $5,990.00. This amount has already been budgeted for and there is no additional cost to the General Fund.
Annual rifle and less-lethal shotgun training cost approximately $1200 and will be covered by the Police Training Budget.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the City Council take the following actions:
1. Review and renew Ordinance No. 22-200.4 by introducing and waiving further reading of Ordinance No. 22.200.4 approving Lexipol Policy 706 pertaining to the funding, acquisition, and use of military equipment as mandated by Assembly Bill 481; and
2. Approve the acquisition of the three new Colt rifles as listed in the Annual Report.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. 2025 AB 481 Annual Report
2. Ordinance No. 22-200.4 AB 481
3. Military_Equipment Lexipol
SCOTTS VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT
2025 AB 481 ANNUAL REPORT
Chief Jayson Rutherford
April 15th, 2026
Public Hearing on 3/16/2026
AB 481 Military Equipment Use Compliance Requirements:
2025 AB 481 ANNUAL REPORT
2 | Page
• Approval of the Military Equipment Use Policy (Completed 5/2022 Policy #706) • Approval of the Military Equipment Use Ordinance (Completed 5/2022 Ord. # 22-200) • Publishing the Policy (Completed 5/2022)
• Annual Report
Annual Report:
In 2022, Assembly Bill 481 required all California Law Enforcement to declare any equipment categorized as Military Equipment. Furthermore, agencies were required to get permission from their governing bodies to possess and utilize that equipment. The Scotts Valley Police abided by the law and obtained permission to utilize two items on the list. In addition, AB 481 requires all agencies to provide an annual report to their governing body and open to public viewing.
Items deemed to be “military equipment” by AB 481 are used as a component of overall best practices for Law Enforcement throughout the country. These tools have been tested in the field and are used by officers to enhance citizen safety and officer safety. Loss of these items would jeopardize the welfare of citizens and SVPD officers.
Officers are trained on all department issued equipment before utilizing the equipment in the field. Officers receiving the equipment undergo training on the nomenclature, functionality, and risks associated with the use of the equipment. Furthermore, officers are required to requalify annually.
Officers must comply with mandated training as regulated by Federal, State and Local statutes. Most of the training is managed and administered by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), which sets minimum training standard for California law enforcement officers.
AB 481 requires six elements to be included in the annual report for each type of equipment, which are outlined below.
1) Summary of how each type of equipment was used and the purpose of that use:
The Scotts Valley Police Department received approval to use Category 10 - Specialized Firearms (AR-15 .223/5.56 patrol rifle) and Category 14 -Kinetic Energy Weapons (Remington 870 shotgun converted to “less-lethal” only). These tools are essential to effectively respond to active threats, protect the community, and de-escalate dangerous situations when possible.
2025 AB 481 ANNUAL REPORT
3 | Page
Rifles and Less-Lethal Shotguns were deployed during the annual rifle range and qualification training dates in January 2025. Additionally, a lateral hire successfully completed the rifle / less lethal certification course in December, 2025.
No rifles or shotguns were fired during the below listed field deployment(s).
Rifles and/or Less-Lethal shotguns were deployed during the following incidents:
SVPD Officer Assigned to the Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime Team:
1. WPD Case Number, Date/Duration: 10/17/25 (45 Mins), Synopsis: SVPD employee assigned to SCCACT assisted WPD in a warrant service of a violent gang member with firearms. Prohibited firearm(s) recovered.
2. CHP Case Number, Date/Duration: 07/30/25 (25 Mins), Synopsis: SCCACT assisted SCARE in a warrant service of a suspect who was i n possession of firearms as a prohibited person.
3. Case #: 25W-01975, Date/Duration: 07/01/25 (1 hour), Synopsis: Search warrant execution on subject with prohibited firearms. 14 firearms recovered.
4. Case #: 25W-00969, Date/Duration: 04/06/25 (1.5 hour), Synopsis: Search warrant for possession of firearms as a prohibited person. 15 firearms recovered.
5. Case #: 25W-00827, Date/Duration: 03/21/25 (20 mins), Synopsis: Search warrant service for a suspect who was in possession of firearms/narcotics as a prohibited person. 5 firearms and illegal controlled substances were recovered.
6. WPD Case number, Date/Duration: 03/14/25 (20 mins), Synopsis: Search warrant service for a suspect who was in possession of several assault weapons. Several illegal firearms were recovered.
7. WPD case, Date/Duration: 01/15/25 (2 hours), Synopsis: SCCACT assisted WPD with an occupied residential burglary. A SVPD officer assigned to SCCACT covered a perimeter position until SWAT arrived.
2025 AB 481 ANNUAL REPORT
4 | Page
Scotts Valley Police Operations Deployments:
8. 26V-00068: Officer deployed his department issued AR15 during the search of a residence that had been burglarized.
9. 26V-00208: Officer deployed his department issued AR15 during the search of a business that had been burglarized.
10. 25V-00483: Date/Duration: 06/03/2025 (5 minutes) SVPD Officers had to dispatch an injured deer on La Madrona near Silverwood.
2) Quantity possessed of each type of equipment:
The department currently has 16 patrol rifles and 5 less lethal shotguns in our inventory. 3) Annual costs for each type of equipment, “including acquisition, personnel, training, transportation, maintenance, storage, upgrade, and other ongoing costs”:
City Council approved $5808.35 to purchase three new Colt AR-15 rifles to replace three outdated existing Bushmaster rifles.
SVPD Officers completed an eight-hour rifle and less-lethal shotgun training and qualification in January 2025. The cost of the ammunition for this training was $1200.
SVPD Lateral hire completed an eight hour rifle and less lethal training and qualification in December, 2025. The cost of the ammunition for this training was $100. 4) Summary of complaints or concerns received for each type of equipment:
There were no complaints or concerns received.
5) Information disclosing violations of military equipment policies and actions taken in response, as well as result of internal audits:
There were no violations of Scotts Valley Police Lexipol policy 706, Military Equipment. 6) Plans to acquire additional military equipment in the coming year, and the quantity sought:
SVPD currently has 3 Bushmaster AR-15 rifles and 11 Colt AR-15 rifles. The Bushmaster rifles were purchased in 2010 and need replacing due to prolonged use and wear. In 2025,
2025 AB 481 ANNUAL REPORT
5 | Page
we received approval from the City Council to replace three Bushmaster rifles with three new Colt rifles. The three Bushmaster rifles were taken out of service and destroyed, so the number of rifles in our inventory remained the same.
In 2026, we are proposing to replace an additional three outdated Bushmaster rifles with three new Colt rifles. The three Bushmaster rifles will be taken out of service and destroyed, so the number of rifles in our inventory will remain the same. The total cost of the three new Colt rifles completely outfitted with sling, Aimpoint optic, and tactical light will be $5990.00.
004
ORDINANCE NO. 22-200.4
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY AMENDING TITLE 9 OF THE SCOTTS VALLEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 9.22, USE OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT BY THE POLICE DEPARTMENT WHEREAS, on September 30, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 481, relating to the use of military equipment by law enforcement agencies; and WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 481 (AB 481), codified at California Government Code sections 7070 through 7075, requires law enforcement agencies to obtain approval of the applicable governing body, by an ordinance adopting a “military equipment” use policy at a regular meeting held pursuant to open meeting laws prior to taking certain actions relating to the funding, acquisition, or use of “military equipment”. The term “military equipment” is defined in California Government Code Section 7070; and WHEREAS, AB 481 allows the City Council to approve the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment, within its jurisdiction only if it makes specified determinations; and WHEREAS, the proposed military equipment use policy is found within Scotts Valley Police Department Lexipol Policy Manual, General Order 706. The policy was published on February 16, 2022 and displayed on the Scotts Valley Police Department website on March 10, 2022 is being presented to the City Council on April 15, 2026. A copy of the policy is attached hereto as Exhibit A; and WHEREAS, the Scotts Valley Police Department Policy 706 meets the requirements of California Government Code 7070; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance adds to the Municipal Code to affirm Scotts Valley Police Department Policy 706 and authorize the use of “military equipment” by the members of the Scotts Valley Police Department as described in Policy 706; and WHEREAS, in the enactment of this ordinance, the City followed the guidelines adopted by the State of California and published in the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 15000, et seq. and found this activity is not a “project” as defined by California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is an organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The foregoing facts are adopted as findings of the City Council as though set forth in fully within the body of this ordinance.
SECTION 2. That Chapter 9.22 of Title 9 of the Scotts Valley Municipal Code reads as follows:
006
“CHAPTER 9.22 - MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY.
Section 9.22.010- Findings and Purpose
Sec. 9.22.010 – Findings and Purpose.
(a) The City Council has made the following determinations:
(1) The military equipment inventoried and presented to the City Council is necessary because there is no reasonable alternative that can achieve the same objective of officer and civilian safety; and
(2) The Military Equipment Use Policy (“Policy”) will safeguard the public’s welfare, safety, civil rights, and civil liberties; and (3) The military equipment identified in the Military Equipment Use Policy is reasonably cost effective compared to available alternatives that can achieve the same objective of Officer and civilian safety; and
(4) Prior military equipment use complied with the applicable Equipment Use Policy (which included equipment now defined as military equipment) that was in effect at the time, or if prior uses did not comply with the accompanying Military Equipment Use Policy, corrective action has been taken to remedy nonconforming uses and ensure future compliance.
(b) The Police Department has submitted a proposed Policy to the City Council and has made those documents available on the Police Department’s website for at least 30 days prior to the public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue.
(c) The Policy was considered by the City Council as an agenda item in an open session of a regular meeting, noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, at which public comment was permitted.
(d) The Policy shall be made publicly available on the Police Department’s website for as long as the military equipment is available for use. (e) The Police Department shall submit an annual military equipment report to the City Council, containing the information required in Government Code Section 7072, and the City Council shall determine whether each type of military equipment identified in that report has complied with the standards for approval set forth in (a)(1)-(4) above.
(f) The City Council shall review this ordinance, and vote on whether to renew it, on an annual basis at a regular meeting, in accordance with Government Code Section 7071(e)(2)
(g) The City Council approves the use of the Policy and finds that it satisfies the requirements of Government Code Section 7070(d).”
006
SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision of such Ordinance and shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions thereof.
SECTION 4. REPEALS CONFLICTING ORDINANCES. All other ordinances of the City of Scotts Valley or provisions of the Scotts Valley Municipal Code which are in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.
SECTION 5. CEQA COMPLIANCE. The City Council finds and determines that the enactment of this Ordinance is not a “project” as that term is used in the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA;” Cal. Pub. Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) or the State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code of Regs., Title 14, Section 15000 et seq.).
Therefore, no environmental assessment is required or necessary.
SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. The above and foregoing ordinance was introduced for a first reading on April 15, 2026, and passed and adopted on May 6, 2026, at a duly held meeting of the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED: ______________________________
Donna Lind, Mayor
ATTEST:
Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
APPROVED
AS TO FORM:
Kirsten Powell, City Attorney
Policy
706
Scotts Valley Police Department
Scotts Valley PD CA Policy Manual
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2022/09/01, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Scotts Valley Police Department Military Equipment - 1
Military Equipment
706.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the approval, acquisition, and reporting requirements of military equipment (Government Code § 7070; Government Code § 7071; Government Code § 7072).
706.1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include (Government Code § 7070):
Governing body – The elected or appointed body that oversees the Department.
Military equipment – Includes but is not limited to the following:
• Unmanned, remotely piloted, powered aerial or ground vehicles. • Mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles or armored personnel carriers. • High mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV), two-and-one-half-ton trucks, five-ton trucks, or wheeled vehicles that have a breaching or entry apparatus attached. • Tracked armored vehicles that provide ballistic protection to their occupants. • Command and control vehicles that are either built or modified to facilitate the operational control and direction of public safety units. • Weaponized aircraft, vessels, or vehicles of any kind. • Battering rams, slugs, and breaching apparatuses that are explosive in nature. This does not include a handheld, one-person ram.
• Firearms and ammunition of_.50 caliber or greater, excluding standard-issue shotguns and standard-issue shotgun ammunition.
• Specialized firearms and ammunition of less than_.50 caliber, including firearms and accessories identified as assault weapons in Penal Code § 30510 and Penal Code § 30515, with the exception of standard-issue firearms.
• Any firearm or firearm accessory that is designed to launch explosive projectiles. • Noise-flash diversionary devices and explosive breaching tools. • Munitions containing tear gas or OC, excluding standard, service-issued handheld pepper spray.
• TASER® Shockwave, microwave weapons, water cannons, and long-range acoustic devices (LRADs).
• Kinetic energy weapons and munitions.
• Any other equipment as determined by a governing body or a state agency to require additional oversight.
Scotts Valley Police Department
Scotts Valley PD CA Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2022/09/01, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Scotts Valley Police Department Military Equipment - 2
706.2 POLICY
It is the policy of the Scotts Valley Police Department that members of this agency comply with the provisions of Government Code § 7071 with respect to military equipment. 706.3 MILITARY EQUIPMENT COORDINATOR
The Chief of Police should designate a member of this agency to act as the military equipment coordinator. The responsibilities of the military equipment coordinator include but are not limited to:
(a) Acting as liaison to the governing body for matters related to the requirements of this policy.
(b) Identifying agency equipment that qualifies as military equipment in the current possession of the Department, or the equipment the Department intends to acquire that requires approval by the governing body.
(c) Conducting an inventory of all military equipment at least annually. (d) Collaborating with any allied agency that may use military equipment within the jurisdiction of Scotts Valley Police Department (Government Code § 7071). (e) Preparing for, scheduling, and coordinating the annual community engagement meeting to include:
1. Publicizing the details of the meeting.
2. Preparing for public questions regarding the agency’s funding, acquisition, and use of equipment.
(f) Preparing the annual military equipment report for submission to the Chief of Police and ensuring that the report is made available on the agency website (Government Code § 7072).
(g) Establishing the procedure for a person to register a complaint or concern, or how that person may submit a question about the use of a type of military equipment, and how the Department will respond in a timely manner.
706.4 MILITARY EQUIPMENT INVENTORY
The following constitutes a list of qualifying equipment for the Department:
[Insert attachment here]
706.5 APPROVAL
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall obtain approval from the governing body by way of an ordinance adopting the military equipment policy. As part of the approval process, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee shall ensure the proposed military equipment policy is submitted to the governing body and is available on the agency website at least 30 days prior to any public hearing concerning the military equipment at issue (Government Code § 7071). The military equipment policy must be approved by the governing body prior to engaging in any of the following (Government Code § 7071):
Scotts Valley Police Department
Scotts Valley PD CA Policy Manual
Military Equipment
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2022/09/01, All Rights Reserved.
Published with permission by Scotts Valley Police Department Military Equipment - 3
(a) Requesting military equipment made available pursuant to 10 USC § 2576a. (b) Seeking funds for military equipment, including but not limited to applying for a grant, soliciting or accepting private, local, state, or federal funds, in-kind donations, or other donations or transfers.
(c) Acquiring military equipment either permanently or temporarily, including by borrowing or leasing.
(d) Collaborating with another law enforcement agency in the deployment or other use of military equipment within the jurisdiction of this agency. (e) Using any new or existing military equipment for a purpose, in a manner, or by a person not previously approved by the governing body.
(f) Soliciting or responding to a proposal for, or entering into an agreement with, any other person or entity to seek funds for, apply to receive, acquire, use, or collaborate in the use of military equipment.
(g) Acquiring military equipment through any means not provided above. 706.6 COORDINATION WITH OTHER JURISDICTIONS
Military equipment should not be used by any other law enforcement agency or member in this jurisdiction unless the military equipment is approved for use in accordance with this policy. 706.7 ANNUAL REPORT
Upon approval of a military equipment policy, the Chief of Police or the authorized designee should submit a military equipment report to the governing body for each type of military equipment approved within one year of approval, and annually thereafter for as long as the military equipment is available for use (Government Code § 7072).
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee should also make each annual military equipment report publicly available on the agency website for as long as the military equipment is available for use. The report shall include all information required by Government Code § 7072 for the preceding calendar year for each type of military equipment in agency inventory. 706.8 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Within 30 days of submitting and publicly releasing the annual report, the Department shall hold at least one well-publicized and conveniently located community engagement meeting, at which the Department should discuss the report and respond to public questions regarding the funding, acquisition, or use of military equipment.
AGENDA ITEM 5.
DATE: 4/15/2026
City of Scotts Valley
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: 4/15/2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Stephanie Hill, Administrative Services Director
APPROVED: Mali LaGoe, City Manager
SUBJECT: Amendment to Business License Tax Ordinance to Establish Economic Development Event Exemption and Associated
Administrative Fee
SUMMARY OF ISSUE
The City’s Business License Tax Ordinance currently requires all businesses operating within City limits to obtain a business license and pay the applicable tax. It does not differentiate vendors participating in temporary events such as festivals, markets, and community-based economic development activities. A prior version of the ordinance included a limited exemption for certain temporary or City-supported events. During subsequent updates to the Business License Tax Ordinance, this provision was not carried forward.
These events provide important economic and community benefits. Not having a limited exemption called out can create administrative challenges for both vendors and event organizers, particularly for short-duration events. Staff has evaluated opportunities to streamline this process by reinstating a narrowly tailored exemption consistent with prior City practice and ensuring continued regulatory compliance and cost recovery.
The proposed ordinance aligns with the City’s goals of supporting economic development, fostering community events, and reducing barriers for small and temporary vendors, while maintaining regulatory oversight and cost recovery.
Economic Development Event Exemption
The proposed ordinance establishes a new category of “Economic Development Events,” defined as City-sponsored or authorized events intended to promote tourism, economic activity, and community engagement.
Vendors who operate solely within these designated events and meet specific eligibility criteria would be exempt from the business license tax. The exemption is limited to events lasting no more than two consecutive days, and each occurrence of a recurring event is treated as a separate event.
This approach supports local economic activity while maintaining appropriate limitations to prevent misuse of the exemption.
Economic Development Event Vendor License Fee
As a secondary measure, staff recommends establishing an Economic Development Event Vendor License Fee as an administrative alternative to the business license tax.
Under this framework, eligible vendors would be exempt from the business license tax but would instead pay a nominal fee to recover the City’s administrative costs related to vendor verification, processing, and compliance monitoring.
The proposed fee structure will be considered by the City Council as part of the Master Fee Schedule update scheduled for the May 6, 2026 City Council meeting. The proposed fees are:
• $25 per vendor when the event coordinator administers the program by collecting and submitting vendor information to the City; or
• $50 per vendor when individual vendors are required to apply directly with the City.
This tiered structure is intended to encourage event coordinators to take an active role in managing vendor participation, thereby reducing administrative burden on City staff.
Centralized coordination is expected to streamline communication, improve vendor compliance, and reduce staff processing time.
Implementation Timing
Implementation of the proposed exemption program is contingent upon adoption of the associated user fees. Accordingly, the ordinance amendments will not become operational until the updated fee schedule is approved and in effect.
Administrative Authority
The proposed ordinance authorizes the City Council, or designee, to designate qualifying Economic Development Events. Staff recommends the City Council designate the City Manager.
This delegation is consistent with existing City practices, where the City Council authorizes the City Manager to administer similar programs and approvals related to nonprofit and community-based events. Delegating this authority allows for timely and efficient implementation while maintaining policy direction established by the Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
The proposed program is designed to be cost-recovery in nature. The Economic Development Event Vendor License Fee will offset administrative costs associated with program oversight and implementation.
While the exemption may result in a minor reduction in business license tax revenue from temporary vendors, this impact is expected to be limited and may be offset by increased economic activity generated by events.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
1. Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the proposed ordinance amending Chapter
5.04.080 of the Municipal Code to establish provisions for Council-designated Economic Development Events, including a limited exemption from the business license tax for qualifying vendors.
2. Staff recommends that the City Council designate the City Manager, or designee, as the City Council’s representative for purposes of administering and approving qualifying events, consistent with existing practices for similar community and nonprofit event programs.
3. Staff recommends that implementation of the program be contingent upon adoption of the associated Economic Development Event Vendor License Fee as part of the User Fee Study and Master Fee Schedule update scheduled for May 6, 2026.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Ordinance No. 15.14 Business License Ordinance Amendment - Econ. Dev. Special Events
ORDINANCE NO. 15.14
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY AMENDING TITLE 5, CHAPTER 5.04 BY AMENDING SECTION 5.04.080 TO ADD AN
EXEMPTION FOR COUNCIL DESIGNATED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIAL EVENTS
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley introduced an ordinance to establish a business license tax (“BLT”) on August 7, 2024, which was approved by a majority of the voters of Scotts Valley on November 5, 2024; and WHEREAS, the BLT established exemptions from the business license tax for certain businesses operating in the City of Scotts Valley; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 2 of Ordinance No 15.13, the City Council has the ability to amend the ordinance so long as such amendments do not increase the tax; and
WHEREAS, the BLT currently requires all businesses operating within City limits to obtain a business license and pay the applicable tax; and WHEREAS, the BLT does not differentiate vendors participating in temporary events such as festivals, markets, and community-based economic development activities; and WHEREAS, a prior version of the BLT included a limited exemption for certain temporary or City-supported events; and
WHEREAS, these events provide important economic and community benefits and not having a limited exemption for these temporary events can create administrative challenges for both vendors and event organizers; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to establish a narrowly tailored exemption consistent with prior City practice and ensuring continued regulatory compliance and cost recovery.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY as follows:
Section 1. Title 10, Chapter 5.04, Section 5.04.080 is hereby amended to add subsection 5.04.080H. Council-Designated Economic Development Special Events to read as follows:
“Section 5.04.080 H. Council-Designated Economic Development Special Events 1) Limited Exemption Authorized.
The business license tax imposed under this Chapter shall not apply to a vendor, exhibitor, or merchant that operates solely at a special event formally designated by the City Council, or City Council designee, as an economic development event
under this subsection. For purposes for this Section, an “Economic Development Event” is defined as a temporary event that:
a) Is intended to promote tourism, economic activity, community engagement, or local business visibility within the City;
b) Is sponsored, co-sponsored, or formally authorized by the City; c) Occurs for no more than two (2) consecutive calendar days; d) Shall take place on public or private property within the City; and e) Includes vendors, exhibitors, or merchants participating only for the duration of the event.
Each individual occurrence of an event shall be considered a separate Economic Development Event, regardless of whether the event is part of a recurring series, program, or branded activity but a consecutive multi-day event shall be considered one Economic Development Event.
2) Vendor Limitation.
A vendor may receive an exemption under this subsection for no more than three (3) Economic Development Events within a single fiscal year. A vendor that participates in more than three Economic Development Events in a fiscal year shall be required to obtain and pay for a business license in accordance with this Chapter. 3) Vendor Eligibility Criteria.
To qualify for the exemption, all of the following conditions must be met:
a) The vendor operates within the City only for the duration of the designated special event;
b) The vendor does not maintain a permanent or ongoing business location within the City, including but not limited to commercial storefronts or regularly operating home-based businesses;
c) The vendor conducts no other business activity within the City during the same fiscal year outside of the designated event; and
d) The vendor complies with all other applicable federal, state, and local laws and permit requirements.
4) Economic Development Event Vendor License Fee.
a) As a condition of designating an event as an Economic Development Event, the event organizer shall pay an Economic Development Event Vendor License Fee, established by resolution of the City Council to recover the City’s reasonable costs associated with administering the exemption, including, but not limited to, staff review, vendor verification, and compliance monitoring.
b) If the event organizer elects not to pay the administrative fee on behalf of participating vendors, each vendor, exhibitor, or merchant participating in the Economic Development Event shall be required to individually apply for and obtain an Economic Development Event Vendor License and pay the applicable fee established by resolution of the City Council.
c) The City may require the event organizer to provide a list of participating vendors and other reasonably necessary information to administer this Section. 5) Scope of Exemption.
This exemption applies only to the business license tax imposed under this Chapter and does not relieve any person or entity from compliance with other applicable federal, state, or local laws, including, but not limited to, seller’s permit requirements, health permits, encroachment permits, or public safety regulations. 6) Administrative Authority.
The Collector may require documentation reasonably necessary to verify eligibility and may deny the exemption if the requirements of this subsection are not satisfied.” Section 2. CEQA COMPLIANCE. The proposed amendments are exempt pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), which provides that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. The proposed ordinance cannot reasonably be said to have a significant effect on the environment.
Section 3. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase or portion 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. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
Section 4. To the extent the provisions of the Scotts Valley Municipal Code as amended by this Ordinance are substantially the same as the provisions of that Code as they read immediately prior to the adoption of this Ordinance, then those provisions shall be construed as continuations of the earlier provisions and not as new enactments.
Section 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its adoption.
Section 6. PUBLICATION. The City Clerk shall certify as to the adoption of this
Ordinance and shall cause a summary thereof to be published within fifteen (15) days of adoption and shall post a certified copy of this Ordinance, including the vote for and against same, in the Office of the City Clerk, in accordance with Government Code Section 36933.
This Ordinance was introduced on the 15th day of April, 2026, and passed and adopted on the 6th day of May, 2026, at a duly held meeting of the City Council of the City of Scotts Valley by the following votes:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
APPROVED:
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Donna Lind, Mayor
ATTEST:
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Cathie Simonovich, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
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Kirsten Powell, City Attorney