District Agreement with Santa Fe Hills Homeowners’ Association, Inc, (Santa Fe Hills HOA), effective July 1, 2026.
DISCUSSION:
Pursuant to the existing agreement, the City collects benefit charges and real property taxes on behalf of the HOA. These funds are then remitted to the HOA as remuneration for the landscape maintenance services the HOA provides. However, the City currently retains a portion of these funds to pay for Santa Fe Irrigation District water bills on behalf of the HOA.
In addition, the City receives a fee for providing the services to set and collect the landscape maintenance fee, conduct monthly landscape inspection, track the income and interest earnings, process monthly payments, and compile the annual accounting information and provide it to the homeowners’ association.
The remaining balance, less a required cash reserve amount, is paid to the HOA monthly.
The City and the Santa Fe Hill HOA wish to modify the existing agreement to formalize their respective roles and to relinquish the City’s Santa Fe Irrigation District water billing responsibilities to the HOA. This change would reduce the administrative burden on City staff, therefore, reducing the fee the City charges and ultimately increasing the monthly payment to the HOA.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
Approval of the revised agreement with the Santa Fe Hills HOA is not a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act because it is not an activity that will have any reasonably foreseeable direct or indirect physical impact on the environment. The revised agreement formalizes existing relationships between the City and the HOA regarding financing for landscape maintenance services, and modifies only the party responsible for paying water bills to the Santa Fe Irrigation District. For these reasons, approval of the revised agreement is not a “project” for which CEQA review is required.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The approval of Resolution 2026-048 will have no fiscal impact on Fiscal Year 2026.
WORK PLAN: N/A
OPTIONS:
• Approve staff recommendation.
• Provide alternative directions.
Item J.5
May 27, 2026
Santa Fe Hills HOA MID Agmt
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Adopt Resolution 2026-048 authorizing the City Manager to execute a Maintenance Improvement District Agreement with Santa Fe Hills Homeowners’ Association, Inc. effective July 1, 2026.
_________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Resolution 2026-048
2. Santa Fe Hills Homeowners’ Association, Inc. - Maintenance Improvement District Agreement
Item J.5
ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION 2026-048
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOLANA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING A
MAINTENANCE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AGREEMENT
WITH THE SANTA FE HILLS HOMEOWNERS’
ASSOCIATION
WHEREAS, the Santa Fe Hills Municipal Improvement District (MID) 9C was originally formed pursuant to Government Code Section 25210.1, et seq., as a County Service Area by the County of San Diego on March 24, 1969, prior to the incorporation of the City; and
WHEREAS, upon formation of the MID, the County also entered into a landscaping and maintenance agreement with the Santa Fe Hills Homeowners’ Association (Santa Fe Hills HOA) under which the HOA would provide various landscaping maintenance services, including landscaping and street, median, slope, and drainage maintenance, while the County would fund these services with MID benefit charges payments; and WHEREAS, upon incorporation, the City assumed the County’s role in providing benefits charges to fund the landscaping services for the MID, and the Santa Fe Hills HOA and the City have continued to cooperate in the landscape maintenance and improvement of Units 1 through 7 of the Santa Fe Hills subdivision MID 9C since then; and
WHEREAS, the parties wish to formalize their responsibilities and obligations in an agreement, wherein the Santa Fe Hills HOA continues to perform landscape maintenance services responsibilities in MID 9C in exchange for the City paying benefit charges to the Santa Fe Hills HOA for MID 9C, as well as the Santa Fe Hills HOA’s allocated portion of San Diego County real property taxes, less the City’s administrative charges; and
WHEREAS, the parties also wish to modify their obligations regarding the HOA’s water bills, which are currently paid by the City on the HOA’s behalf to the Santa Fe Irrigation District, but which under the proposed agreement will be paid directly by the Santa Fe Hills HOA to the Santa Fe Irrigation District and the City will modify the monthly benefits charges payments made to the HOA accordingly; and WHEREAS, the Santa Fe Hills HOA and the City of Solana Beach have agreed to execute a revised Maintenance Improvement District Agreement incorporating these modifications; and
WHEREAS, approval of the proposed agreement with the Santa Fe Hills HOA is not a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is limited to formalizing existing financial relationships between the City and the Santa Fe Hills HOA Item J.5
Resolution 2026-048
Maintenance Agreement with Santa Fe Hills HOA
regarding financing for landscape maintenance services, and will not have any reasonably foreseeable direct or indirect physical impacts on the environment.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolve as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the City Council authorizes the City Manager to enter into an Agreement for the Maintenance Improvement District with Santa Fe Hills Homeowners’ Association.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 27th day of May 2026, at a regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers –
NOES: Councilmembers –
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers –
ABSENT: Councilmembers –
______________________________
LESA HEEBNER, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
_____________________________ _______________________________ JOHANNA N. CANLAS, City Attorney ANGELA IVEY, City Clerk Item J.5
ATTACHMENT 2
City of Solana Beach
MAINTENANCE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AGREEMENT
SANTA FE HILLS HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC.
This Maintenance Improvement District Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into this _____ day of ___________, 2026, by and between the City of Solana Beach, a municipal corporation (“City”), and the Santa Fe Hills Homeowners’ Association, Inc., a California Planned Development, non-CID, nonprofit 501(c)(4) corporation with current property management company McClure Management, Inc. located at 5431 Avenida Encinas, Suite K, Carlsbad, California 92008 (“Association”) (individually, “Party,” or collectively, the “Parties”).
WHEREAS, the Parties have cooperated in the landscape maintenance and improvement of Units 1 through 7 of the Santa Fe Hills subdivision within the City and Municipal Improvement District Number 9C (“MID Areas”) pursuant to that certain Agreement Between the County of San Diego and the Santa Fe Hills Homeowners Association Inc. for Landscape Maintenance dated July 1, 1986 (“1986 Agreement”); and WHEREAS, the Parties wish to formalize their respective obligations for landscape maintenance of the MID Areas in a revised agreement, such that the Association wishes to continue landscape maintenance responsibilities (“Services”) in the MID Areas in exchange for the City transferring benefit charges to the Association for Municipal Improvement District Number 9C as well as the Association’s allocated portion of San Diego County real property taxes, less the City’s administrative charges; and WHEREAS, the City has heretofore paid the Association’s water bills from property tax (ATI) and benefit fees to the Santa Fe Irrigation District, and the Parties wish to formalize their agreement that the Association, rather than the City, shall henceforth pay the Association’s water bills to the Santa Fe Irrigation District; and
WHEREAS, the Parties intend that this Agreement replace the 1986 Agreement in full.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Parties hereto mutually covenant and agree with each other as follows:
1. DURATION OF AGREEMENT.
1.1. Term. The term of this Agreement shall commence on July 1, 2025, and shall remain in effect for twenty (20) years, or until such earlier time as the Parties may terminate the Agreement in the manner specified herein.
1.2. Extensions. The Agreement may be extended for an additional five (5) year term if both Parties mutually agree to such an extension in writing.
1.3. Termination. Either Party may terminate this Agreement upon 12 months written notice to the other Party. Such termination shall comply with the termination provisions of the County Service Area Law, as amended (Cal. Gov. Code, §§ 25210-25217.4).
2. MID AREAS—DESCRIPTION
2.1. MID Areas. The area to be maintained by the Association per this Agreement is situated in the County of San Diego, State of California, and more particularly delineated on the diagram attached hereto as Exhibit A.
3. ASSOCIATION’S SCOPE OF SERVICES; CITY REPORTING.
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ATTACHMENT 2
3.1. Association’s Scope of Services. The Association shall ensure that MID Areas’ landscape sites are maintained to the highest standards, promoting safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal for the community. The following tasks shall be performed by the Association and their professional service providers to the satisfaction of the City’s Engineering and Public Works Department:
3.1.1. Ground Cover. Association shall maintain all ground cover areas in a manner to ensure that they do not encroach onto streets or sidewalks. Association shall identify and eliminate any overgrown vegetation that obstructs or encroaches into pedestrian pathways, sidewalks or roadways. Association shall ensure ground cover is maintained at an appropriate height and does not pose a hazard.
3.1.2. Trees. Association shall ensure that all trees shall be maintained in a manner to ensure no branches are low-hanging or obstructing traffic lanes, street signs, or pedestrian access. Association shall assess and maintain the overall health of trees, and identify and remove any dead or hazardous limbs that require pruning or removal.
Association shall ensure clearance standards are met for vehicular and pedestrian safety.
3.1.3. Irrigation System. Association shall maintain all irrigation systems to eliminate leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or inefficient water distribution. Association shall identify and eliminate any areas of overwatering or water pooling to avoid potential hazards or property damage.
3.1.4. Slope and Retention Area Inspection. Association shall maintain all landscaped slopes to ensure that they are stable and free from erosion or damage, subject to individual homeowner’s responsibility to repair and restore their slope, which shall be within the Association’s authority to enforce Association shall identify and cause potential safety concerns, such as loose soil or exposed roots, to be eliminated.
Association shall assess slope vegetation to ensure that it is adequately maintained and provides necessary erosion control.
3.1.5. Drainage System. Association shall maintain all stormwater drainage systems within MID Area sites, including Concrete brow Ditches, catch basins, culverts, and surface drains, to ensure proper functionality. Association shall eliminate blockages, debris accumulation, and erosion around drainage areas. Association shall maintain all drainage facilities in a manner to ensure that water drains properly from slopes and hardscaped areas, preventing pooling or flooding. Association and its service provider are responsible for ensuring all damaged drainage infrastructure is properly maintained, repaired, and replaced. Association shall consult with the City’s Engineering and Public Works Department to obtain permits for such repair and replacement activities, if required.
3.1.6. Backflow. The Association shall perform testing and maintenance of the irrigation backflow prevention devices throughout the MID Areas consistent with Santa Fe Irrigation District and other applicable regulatory agency requirements. The Association shall provide the City with written results of all backflow testing and maintenance activities conducted per Santa Fe Irrigation District and other applicable requirements within thirty (30) days of completion of testing, or within seven (7) days of completion of the required maintenance activities.
3.1.7. Overall Site Condition. Association shall maintain the general appearance and cleanliness of the landscape, including debris removal and proper maintenance of hardscaped areas.
3.2. City Reporting.
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ATTACHMENT 2
3.2.1. Reporting. The City’s Engineering and Public Works Department shall produce a detailed monthly report summarizing any inspections performed of the MID Areas that are to be submitted to City’s Finance Department. The City’s time and material expenses in producing the monthly reports shall be reimbursed as administrative charges by the benefit charges assessed for the Association per Section 4.1, below.
The City’s report shall include the following information:
a. Date of inspection;
b. Name, title, and contact information of the person performing the inspection;
c. A checklist of deficient inspection areas;
d. Photos documenting any issues or areas needing attention; and e. Notation of any recurring issues that may require further analysis or longterm solutions.
4. PAYMENTS AND FUND BALANCE REQUIREMENTS.
4.1. Benefit Charges and Taxes. In exchange for the Association’s satisfactory performance of the Services, the City shall pay the Association the benefit charges for Municipal Improvement District Number 9C and its allocated portion of County of San Diego real property taxes, less the City’s administrative charges, as detailed in Exhibit B to this Agreement.
4.2. Timing of Payments. The City’s payments to the Association per this section shall be in equal monthly installments according to the adopted City budget in effect at the time of payment.
Payments will only be released to Association upon written confirmation by the City’s Engineering and Public Works Department that a visual inspection of the Association’s landscaping maintenance was completed and that the maintenance was deemed satisfactory.
4.3. Minimum Fund Balance Requirements. As of Fiscal Year 2025, the minimum required fund balance for the Association is set at Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000.00). Should this amount become insufficient to cover cash flow in future fiscal years, the City may increase the minimum fund balance on an annual basis consistent with the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”), capped at a maximum three percent (3%) increase per fiscal year. At the end of each fiscal year, any fund balance exceeding the Association’s required reserve shall be issued by the City as a one-time payment to the Association.
4.4. Santa Fe Irrigation District Water Bills. Upon execution of this Agreement, the Association shall assume full responsibility for payment of its water bills to the Santa Fe Irrigation District, and the City shall have no further responsibility or obligation for payment of the Association’s water bills to the Santa Fe Irrigation District. The monthly benefit charges paid to the Association per Section 5.1, above, shall be adjusted as necessary to account for the Association’s direct payment of its water bills to the Santa Fe Irrigation District.
5. NON-EMPLOYMENT PROVISIONS.
5.1. Association is, for all purposes arising out of this Agreement, not an employee or independent contractor of the City. The Association has and shall retain the right to exercise full control and supervision of all persons assisting the Association in the performance of said Services hereunder. Neither Association nor Association’s employees shall in any event be entitled to any benefits to which City employees are entitled, including, but not limited to, overtime, retirement benefits, workers’ compensation benefits, injury leave, or other leave benefits.
Association is solely responsible for all such matters, as well as compliance with social security and income tax withholding and all other regulations and laws governing such matters.
Item J.5
ATTACHMENT 2
5.2. PERS Eligibility Indemnification. In the event that Association’s subcontractor(s) or other personnel providing Services under this Agreement claims or is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction or the California Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) to be eligible for enrollment in PERS of the City, Association shall indemnify, defend (with counsel acceptable to the City), and hold harmless City from such claims and for the payment of any employer and employee contributions for PERS benefits on behalf of the employee as well as for payment of any costs (including attorney fees and costs), and penalties and interest on such contributions that would otherwise be the responsibility of the City. Notwithstanding any other agency, state or federal policy, rule, regulation, law or ordinance to the contrary, Association’s subcontractor and other personnel providing service under this Agreement shall not qualify for or become entitled to, and hereby agree to waive any claims to, any compensation and benefit including but not limited to eligibility to enroll in PERS as an employee of City and entitlement to any contributions to be paid by City for employer contributions and/or employee contributions for PERS benefits.
5.3. Limitation of City Liability. The payment made to Association pursuant to this Agreement shall be the full and complete compensation to which Association and Association’s officers, employees, agents and subcontractors are entitled for performance of any Services under this Agreement. Neither Association nor its subcontractor nor their respective officers nor employees are entitled to any salary or wages, or retirement, health, leave, or other fringe benefits applicable to employees of the City. The City will not make any federal or state tax withholdings on behalf of Association. The City shall not be required to pay any workers’ compensation insurance on behalf of Association.
5.4. Indemnification for Employee Payments. Association agrees to defend (with counsel acceptable to City) and indemnify the City for any obligation, claim, costs (including attorney fees and expert costs), suit or demand for tax, retirement contribution including any contribution to the PERS, social security, salary or wages, overtime payment, or workers’ compensation payment which the City may be required to make for Services done under this Agreement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, Association will not defend or indemnify for any obligation, claim, costs, suit, or demand arising solely out of the negligent or intentional acts or omissions of City.
5.5. Continuing Obligations. The provisions of this section are continuing obligations that shall survive expiration or termination of this Agreement.
6. AUDIT AND INSPECTION OF RECORDS.
6.1. At any time during normal business hours and as often as may be deemed necessary, the Association shall make available to a representative of City for examination all of its records with respect to all matters covered by this Agreement and shall permit City to audit, examine, and/or reproduce such records. Association shall retain such financial and program service records for at least four (4) years after termination or final payment under this Agreement. The City shall provide the Association with an annual reconciliation or accounting of the funds allocated under this Agreement.
6.2. The Association shall include the City's right under this section in any and all of their subcontracts performing Services under this Agreement, and shall ensure that these sections are binding upon all subcontractors performing Services under this Agreement.
7. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST.
7.1. Association shall at all times comply with all federal, state and local conflict of interest laws, regulations, and policies applicable to public contracts and procurement practices, including but not limited to California Government Code Section 81000 et seq. (Political Reform Act) and Section 1090 et seq. Association shall immediately disqualify itself and shall not use its official Item J.5
ATTACHMENT 2
position to influence in any way any matter coming before the City in which the Association has a financial interest as defined in Government Code Section 87103. Association represents that it has no knowledge of any financial interests which would require it to disqualify itself from any matter on which it might perform services for the City.
7.2. If, in performing the Services set forth in this Agreement, the Association makes, or participates in, a “governmental decision” as described in Title 2, Section 18700.3(a) of the California Code of Regulations, or performs the same or substantially all the same duties for the City that would otherwise be performed by a City employee holding a position specified in the department's conflict of interest code, the Association shall be subject to a conflict of interest code requiring the completion of one or more statements of economic interests disclosing the Association’s relevant financial interests.
7.3. If checked, the Association shall comply with all of the reporting requirements of the Political Reform Act. Specifically, the Association shall file a Fair Political Practices Commission Form 700 (Assuming Office Statement) within thirty (30) calendar days of the City’s determination that the Association is subject to a conflict of interest code. The Association shall also file a Form 700 (Annual Statement) on or before April 1 of each year of the Agreement, disclosing any financial interests held during the previous calendar year for which the Association was subject to a conflict of interest code.
7.4. City represents that pursuant to California Government Code Section 1090 et seq., none of its elected officials, officers, or employees has an interest in this Agreement.
8. INSURANCE.
8.1. Insurance for Services. Association shall procure and maintain for the duration of the Agreement insurance against claims for injuries to persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the performance of the Services hereunder and the results of that work by the Association, their agents, representatives, employees or subcontractors.
8.2. Liabilities Not Limited by Insurance. Association’s liabilities, including but not limited to Association’s indemnity obligations, under this Agreement, shall not be deemed limited in any way to the insurance coverage required herein.
8.3. Waiver of Subrogation. Association hereby grants to City and its respective elected officials, officers, employees, agents and representatives a waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of said Association may acquire against the City by virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. Association agrees to obtain any endorsement that may be necessary to affect this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies regardless of whether or not the City has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer.
8.4. Additional Required Provisions. The Association’s insurance policies shall contain, or be endorsed to contain, the following provisions:
8.4.1. The City, its officers, officials, employees, and representatives shall be named as additional insureds with respect to liability arising out of Services performed by or on behalf of the Association including materials, parts, or equipment furnished in connection with such work or operations. The City's additional insured status must be reflected on additional insured endorsement form (at least as broad as ISO Form CG 20 10 11 85 or both CG 20 10, CG 20 26, CG 20 33, or CG 20 38 and CG 20 37) which shall be submitted to the City.
8.4.2. The policies are primary and non-contributory to any insurance that may be carried by the City, as reflected in an endorsement at least as broad as CG 20 01 04 13 which shall be submitted to the City. Any insurance or self-insurance maintained by the City, its officers, officials, employees, or representatives shall be excess of the Item J.5
ATTACHMENT 2
Association’s insurance and shall not contribute with it. This requirement shall also apply to any Excess or Umbrella liability policies.
8.5. Verification of Coverage. Association shall furnish the City with original certificates and amendatory endorsements effecting coverage required by this section and a copy of the Declarations and Endorsements Pages of the CGL and any Excess policies listing all policy endorsements.
9. INDEMNIFICATION.
Association agrees to indemnify, defend (with counsel acceptable to City), and hold harmless the City, and its officers, officials, agents, representatives, and employees from any and all claims, demands, costs, or liabilities that arise out of, or pertain to, or relate to, directly or indirectly, the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of Association, its subcontractors and either of their respective employees, agents, and volunteers in the performance of or failure to perform the Services or obligations under this Agreement.
Association’s duty to indemnify under this section shall not include liability for damages for death or bodily injury to persons, injury to property, or other loss, damage or expense arising from the sole negligence or willful misconduct by the City or its elected officials, officers, agents, and employees. City may, at its own discretion, conduct the defense, or participate in the defense, of any claim related in any way to this indemnification. If the City elects to conduct its own defense, participate in its own defense, or obtain independent legal counsel in defense of any claim related to this indemnification, Association shall pay the City for all costs related thereto, including without limitation, reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.
Association's indemnification obligations shall not be limited by the insurance provisions of this Agreement.
The Parties expressly agree that any payment, attorney's fees, costs or expense City incurs or makes to or on behalf of an injured employee under the City's self-administered workers' compensation is included as a loss, expense, or cost for the purposes of this section, and that this section will survive the expiration or early termination of this Agreement.
10. NON-DISCRIMINATION.
Association shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of sex, race, color, age, religion, ancestry, national origin, military or veteran status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender expression, marital status, or sexual orientation. Association shall take affirmative action to insure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their sex, race, color, age, religion, ancestry, national origin, military or veteran status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender expression, marital status, or sexual orientation, and shall make reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities or medical conditions. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion, transfer, recruitment, or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, including apprenticeship.
11. NOTICES.
All communications to either party by the other party shall be delivered to the persons listed below or any future or different address or company requested in writing by the Association or City. Any such written communications by mail shall be conclusively deemed to have been received by the addressee five (5) calendar days after the deposit thereof in the United States mail, postage prepaid and properly addressed as noted below:
City of Solana Beach
Engineering and Public Works Department
635 S. Highway 101
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Santa Fe Hills Homeowners Association, Inc
c/o McClure Management, Inc.
5431 Avenida Encinas, Suite K
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Item J.5
ATTACHMENT 2
12. ASSIGNABILITY.
This Agreement and any portion thereof shall not be assigned or transferred, nor shall any of the Association’s duties be delegated or sub-contracted, without the express written consent of the City in each instance.
13. RESPONSIBILITY FOR EQUIPMENT.
City shall not be responsible nor held liable for any damage to persons or property consequent upon the use, misuse, or failure of any equipment used by Association or any of Association’s employees or subcontractors, even if such equipment has been furnished, rented, or loaned to Association by City. The acceptance or use of any such equipment by Association, Association’s employees, or subcontractors shall be construed to mean that Association accepts full responsibility for and agrees to exonerate, defend, indemnify and hold harmless City from and against any and all claims for any damage whatsoever resulting from the use, misuse, or failure of such equipment.
14. CALIFORNIA LAW; VENUE.
This Agreement shall be construed and interpreted according to the laws of the State of California. Any action brought to enforce or interpret any portion of this Agreement shall be brought in the county of San Diego, California. Association hereby waives any and all rights it might have pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 394.
15. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS.
15.1. The Association shall comply and require that its subcontractor comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations, and policies of the federal, state, and local governments applicable to this Agreement whether now in force or subsequently enacted. This includes maintaining a City of Solana Beach Business Certificate, if applicable.
15.2. If checked, Association represents and warrants that Association is familiar with the requirements of AB506 (Business and Professions Code section 18975) and the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (Penal Code sections 11164 - 11174.3), and that it and each and every person performing any of the Services under this Agreement on Association’s behalf does and will, at all times, comply with such requirements.
16. ENTIRE AGREEMENT.
This Agreement sets forth the entire understanding of the Parties with respect to the subject matters herein.
There are no other understandings, terms or other agreements expressed or implied, oral or written, except as set forth herein. No change, alteration, or modification of the terms or conditions of this Agreement, and no verbal understanding of the Parties, their officers, agents, or employees shall be valid unless agreed to in writing by both Parties.
17. NO WAIVER.
No failure of either the City or the Association to insist upon the strict performance by the other of any covenant, term or condition of this Agreement, nor any failure to exercise any right or remedy consequent upon a breach of any covenant, term, or condition of this Agreement, shall constitute a waiver of any such breach of such covenant, term or condition.
18. SEVERABILITY.
The unenforceability, invalidity, or illegality of any provision of this Agreement shall not render any other provision unenforceable, invalid, or illegal.
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19. DRAFTING AMBIGUITIES.
The Parties agree that they are aware that they have the right to be advised by counsel with respect to the negotiations, terms and conditions of this Agreement, and the decision of whether or not to seek advice of counsel with respect to this Agreement is a decision which is the sole responsibility of each Party. This Agreement shall not be construed in favor of or against either Party by reason of the extent to which each Party participated in the drafting of the Agreement.
20. CONFLICTS BETWEEN TERMS.
If an apparent conflict or inconsistency exists between the main body of this Agreement and any exhibits, the main body of this Agreement shall control. If a conflict exists between an applicable federal, state, or local law, rule, regulation, order, or code and this Agreement, the law, rule, regulation, order, or code shall control. Varying degrees of stringency among the main body of this Agreement, any exhibits, and laws, rules, regulations, orders, or codes are not deemed conflicts, and the most stringent requirement shall control.
Each Party shall notify the other immediately upon the identification of any apparent conflict or inconsistency concerning this Agreement.
21. EXHIBITS INCORPORATED.
All exhibits referenced in this Agreement are incorporated into the Agreement by this reference.
22. COUNTERPARTS/ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES.
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, which together shall constitute one original agreement. This Agreement may be executed electronically with the same force and effect as original, ink signatures.
23. SIGNING AUTHORITY.
23.1. The representative for each Party hereby declares that authority has been obtained to sign on behalf of the Party and agrees to hold the other Party or Parties hereto harmless if it is later determined that such authority does not exist.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this Agreement the day and year first hereinabove written.
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH,
a California municipal corporation
SANTA FE HILLS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION,
INC.,
a California 410(c)(4) non-profit corporation
By: _______________________________ By: _______________________________ Alyssa Muto, City Manager Clint McClure, Managing Agent ATTEST:
Angela Ivey, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
Rachel Jacobs, Finance Director
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Johanna N. Canlas, City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
MID AREAS PROPERTY DESCRIPTION
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EXHIBIT B
BENEFIT CHARGES AND TAXES PAYMENTS
The City shall transfer to the Association the benefit charges for Municipal Improvement District Number 9C and its allocated portion of County of San Diego real property taxes, less the City’s administrative charges which vary from year to year.
The allocated share of 1% of General Property Tax is determined annually based on the assessed value of the properties within the Santa Fe Hills area, multiplied by 1% and then multiplied by the annual tax increment (ATI) apportionment factor. This is collected through real property taxes by the County of San Diego in July of each year.
The public benefit unit charge for Municipal Improvement District No. 9C, Santa Fe Hills, is $232.10 per unit, with 408 units. This levy amount is collected at the same time and in the same manner as ordinary ad valorem property taxes of the City in July of each year.
Item J.5
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # J.6.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: IT Department – Scott Sampaio, Network Systems Engineer SUBJECT: City Council Consideration of Resolution 2026-060 Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into a Professional Service Agreement with Western Audio Visual for A/V
Maintenance Services
BACKGROUND:
In 2021, the City entered into a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with a qualified audio-visual (A/V) vendor to provide ongoing maintenance, support, and system improvements for audio-visual equipment located at City facilities, including City Council Chambers, Fletcher Cove Community Center, and La Colonia Community Center. These systems support critical City operations such as public meetings, hybrid conferencing, and community events.
The existing agreement is approaching the end of its term. In accordance with City procurement policy and to ensure continuity of essential A/V services, staff conducted a needs assessment to evaluate current system requirements and future operational needs.
Based on this assessment, staff developed and issued a new Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit qualified vendors to provide ongoing A/V maintenance, support, and potential system enhancements under a co-managed service model with the City’s Information Technology Department.
The new RFP was designed to ensure continued reliability of mission-critical A/V systems, support evolving hybrid meeting requirements, and maintain flexibility for future upgrades while safeguarding the City’s operational and cybersecurity interests.
This item is before the City Council to consider approving Resolution 2026-060 (Attachment 1) authorizing the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement for audio-visual maintenance and support services with Western Audio Visual, Inc.
Item J.6
May 27, 2026
Audio Visual Maintenance Award
DISCUSSION:
The Request for Proposals (RFP) for Audio-Visual Maintenance and Support Services was released on April 13, 2026. The solicitation was advertised in accordance with City procurement requirements and distributed to firms known to provide professional A/V services, particularly those with public sector and municipal experience.
A total of six (6) proposals were received from the following firms:
• Western Audio Visual
• ELB Global
• Pathway Communications LTD
• E-Logic
• EIDIM Group, Inc.
• Fossen Audio
Staff conducted a comprehensive evaluation of all proposals based on the criteria outlined in the RFP, including: project understanding, technical qualifications, experience in municipal environments, service approach, pricing structure, and acceptance of the City’s standard Professional Services Agreement (PSA). Cost was evaluated in conjunction with qualifications, service alignment, and overall value, and was not the sole determining factor in the final ranking.
Proposals were reviewed by an evaluation panel, and each submission was assessed for alignment with the City’s desired co-managed service model, which emphasizes collaboration with internal IT staff, operational flexibility, and cost-effective service delivery.
Due to the varying pricing methodologies submitted by proposers, staff developed a normalized cost comparison to provide a general understanding of relative cost and structure:
Vendor Monthly Recurring One-time costs Total
Western A/V* ~$480/month As-needed (T&M) ~$17,280 (3-year) ELB Global $1,000/month Hourly ($110-
$250/hr)
~$36,000+ (3-year
base)
Pathway
Communications
Est. $565–
$2,000+/month
Hourly + trip charges ~$20,340–$72,000+
(3-year est.)
Fossen Audio $1,500–
$1,800/month
Hourly ($150–
$200/hr)
~$54,000–$64,800 (3-
year)
EIDIM Group ~$3,900/month
(implied)
Not clearly
separated
~$140,592.95 (3-year
E-Logic ~$12,000+/month Included in bundle ~$776,293.75 (5-year) Item J.6
May 27, 2026
Audio Visual Maintenance Award
Proposals were not submitted in a uniform cost format. Vendors utilized a mix of fixed monthly pricing, hourly rate schedules, and fully bundled service models. As such:
• Total estimated costs reflect normalized comparisons based on available proposal data and typical operational assumptions.
• Some proposals include additional or expanded services beyond the base scope, which may increase total cost but are not directly comparable to other submissions. • Vendors with hourly-based pricing models may result in variable annual costs depending on actual service usage.
• The highest-cost proposal reflects a fully managed, enterprise-level service model, which exceeds the City’s intended co-managed service approach and operational requirements.
Following evaluation and panel review, staff identified a top-ranked firm based on:
• Demonstrated understanding of the City’s operational needs • Strong experience supporting municipal A/V environments • Alignment with the City’s co-managed service model
• Clear and transparent pricing structure
• Acceptance of the City’s standard Professional Services Agreement (PSA) • Lowest overall operational and contractual risk
The highest-ranked proposer also offers the advantage of continuity of service, minimizing transition risk and ensuring no disruption to critical City Council meetings and public-facing functions.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
The proposed action is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) of the State CEQA Guidelines, which applies to the operation, repair, maintenance, and minor alteration of existing public facilities involving negligible or no expansion of use.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funding for A/V maintenance and support services is included in the IT Department’s annual operating budget. The proposed agreement with Western Audio Visual is estimated at approximately $480 per month, or $5,760 annually, with additional as-needed costs for emergency or project-based services.
WORK PLAN: N/A
OPTIONS:
• Approve staff recommendation.
• Provide alternative directions.
Item J.6
May 27, 2026
Audio Visual Maintenance Award
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution 2026-060 authorizing the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Western Audio Visual, Inc.
_________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Resolution 2026-060
Item J.6
RESOLUTION 2026-060
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SOLANA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AND
AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT WITH WESTERN
AUDIO VISUAL, INC. FOR AUDIO-VISUAL
MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT SERVICES
WHEREAS, the City of Solana Beach utilizes audio-visual (A/V) systems at City facilities, including City Council Chambers, Fletcher Cove Community Center, and La Colonia Community Center, to support essential City operations such as public meetings, hybrid conferencing, and community events; and
WHEREAS, the City’s current Professional Services Agreement for A/V maintenance and support services is approaching the end of its term; and WHEREAS, in accordance with City procurement policy, City staff conducted a needs assessment and developed a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit qualified vendors to provide ongoing A/V maintenance, support, and system enhancements under a co-managed service model; and
WHEREAS, the RFP was advertised and distributed to qualified firms, resulting in the receipt of six (6) proposals; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Solana Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) Section 3.08.140, contracts for professional services may be awarded based on demonstrated competence and professional qualifications necessary for the satisfactory performance of the services required, rather than solely on the basis of lowest cost; and WHEREAS, City staff evaluated all proposals based on criteria including project understanding, technical qualifications, experience in municipal environments, service approach, pricing structure, and acceptance of the City’s standard Professional Services Agreement; and
WHEREAS, Western Audio Visual, Inc. has extensive experience supporting municipal A/V environments and demonstrated a clear understanding of the City’s operational needs and co-managed service model; and
WHEREAS, funding for A/V maintenance and support services is included in the Information Technology Department’s annual operating budget.
Item J.6
Resolution 2026-060
Western Audio Visual, Inc.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolves as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That Western Audio Visual, Inc. has demonstrated competence and the professional qualifications necessary for the reliable performance of the services required by the City.
3. That the proposal submitted by Western Audio Visual, Inc. has been evaluated as offering the best overall value to the City based on qualifications, service approach, and alignment with the City’s operational needs.
4. That the City Council hereby authorizes the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Western Audio Visual, Inc. for audiovisual maintenance and support services for an initial three (3) year term, with two (2) optional one-year extensions, in an amount not to exceed a level consistent with the approved budget and as-needed service requirements.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, held on the 27th day of May, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers –
NOES: Councilmembers –
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers –
ABSENT: Councilmembers –
______________________________
LESA HEEBNER, City Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
_____________________________ _______________________________ JOHANNA N. CANLAS, City Attorney ANGELA IVEY, City Clerk Item J.6
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # K.1.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: Community Development Department – Corey Andrews SUBJECT: Public Hearing: Request for a MOD and MEC to Construct a Fence Higher than the Maximum Fence and Wall Heights
on the Southern Property Line at 146 S. Granados Avenue (Applicant: Oliver and Shelli Pelly; Application: MOD26- 002/MEC26-002; APN: 298-093-90; Resolution No. 2026-
061)
BACKGROUND:
The property owners, Oliver and Shelli Pelly (herein referred to as “Applicant”), have submitted an application for a modification (MOD25-001) to the original DRP/SDP approval to remove or modify a condition of approval from Resolution 2003-070 that was adopted when the residence at 146 S. Granados Ave. was approved. The applicant has also requested a Minor Exception (MEC 26-001) to allow for an increase to the maximum allowed fence height to provide additional privacy from the adjacent development on the property to the south.
The issue before the Council is whether to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the Applicant’s requests as contained in Resolution 2026-061 (Attachment 1). The Applicant provided an attachment to the Staff Report (Attachment 2) and a letter in opposition was received from the neighbor to the south (Attachment 3) and the Applicant provided a response (Attachment 4).
DISCUSSION:
In 2003, the original property owner of the land at the southeastern corner of the intersection at Lomas Santa Fe and South Granados Avenue submitted an application for a Structure Development Permit for proposed residences on lots C, D, and E of a 5-lot subdivision. Addresses were assigned to each lot once building permits were issued as follows: Lot C= 140 S. Granados; Lot D= 142 S. Granados; and Lot E= 146 S. Granados Avenue. Structure Development Permit # 334 was associated with the proposed residence at 146 S. Granados Avenue. Story poles were erected onsite and a 30-day notice was mailed to all property owners within 300 feet. At the end of the 30-day View Assessment Item K.1
May 27, 2026
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave – Pelly Residence
period the City received two applications for View Assessment, one from 150 S. Granados Avenue and one from 133 Brookdale Place.
The project was presented to the View Assessment Commission (VAC) on March 26, 2003.
At that meeting, the VAC approved the project subject to conditions of approval according to the attached Notice of Decision (Attachment 5). The Appellant at 150 S. Granados Avenue and the Developer (owner of 146 S. Granados in 2003) appealed the VAC’s determination to the City Council for consideration. The appeal was heard as a Public Hearing at the June 3, 2003, City Council meeting. The City Council approved the project subject to conditions of approval (See the resolution of approval in attachment 3). Two conditions are specific to the allowable heights and locations of fences on 146 S. Granados Ave. which are discussed later in this report.
The Applicant has submitted this application to the City to request changes to the 2003 approval in response to recently approved redevelopment of the residence on the parcel to the south.
CHANGE IN CONDITIONS:
The property owner of 150 S. Granados Avenue, the adjacent parcel to the south, submitted an application for a Development Review Permit (DRP) and SDP to remodel the existing residence and construct an 1,843 square foot addition. The project received multiple view claims, and at the February 21, 2023, VAC meeting, the VAC determined that they were unable to make the required findings to recommend approval of the project to the City Council.
The property owner withdrew their DRP/SDP application and revised the project to include a new multi-level residence with a partially subterranean garage on the lower level, the primary residence on the main floor and an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on the second floor. The revised primary residence did not exceed 100 aggregate cubic yards of grading, 60% of the maximum floor area, and no portion of the primary residence would exceed 16 feet in height from the pre-existing grade; therefore, a DRP and an SDP were not required.
Furthermore, the ADU second story ADU does exceed 16 feet in height, however the structure was not subject to discretionary review according to State Law.
REQUESTED MODIFICATION:
The project Applicant at 146 S. Granados Ave. has concerns that upon completion of the renovation and construction of the ADU, their privacy will be significantly impacted by the neighbor’s windows and decking oriented to the north, above their home and patio areas.
Due to the change in the conditions, the Applicant is requesting that the City Council remove two of the original DRP conditions of approval from Resolution 2003-070 which are as follows;
Height of Fences:
Item K.1
May 27, 2026
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave – Pelly Residence
i. No fence shall be higher than three (3) feet along the southern property line from the west corner of the existing fence at 150 South Granados Avenue, and then easterly to the sixth pole of the existing fence, a distance of 40 feet, unless agreed in writing by both the owners of 146 and 150 South Granados Avenue to a different solution meeting City Codes.
ii. Any fence at the rear of the lot shall not exceed the top of the bank (156MSL) on Brookdale Place on the easterly property line of this property.
REQUESTED MINOR EXCEPTION:
In addition, should the Council remove the conditions listed above, the Applicant is requesting that the City Council approve a Minor Exception (MEC) for the construction of a 10-foot fence along the southern property line or the shared property line between 146 and 150 S. Granados Avenue to further address privacy concerns of the future renovated home and construction of the ADU. Presently, due to the conditions of Resolution 2003- 070, no fence can exceed three feet in height along the southern property line. If that condition is removed, SBMC Section 17.20.040 allows for a 6-foot fence with an additional 24 inches that is 50% open to light and air within the required side yard setback.
The requested MEC would be to 1) change the 2 feet from 50% open to light and air; and 2) increase the height in portions of the walls up to 10 feet.
Minor Exceptions (SBMC Chapter 17.68.030)
According to SBMC 17.68.030(C)1.a, a minor exception may be approved for:
a. Fence Height. In any zone the director may allow an increase to the maximum height of any fence, wall, retaining wall or equivalent screening by a maximum of two feet, where the topography of sloping sites or a difference in grade between adjoining sites warrants such increase in height to maintain a level of privacy, or to maintain effective screening.
provided the following required findings can be made:
1. That strict or literal interpretation and enforcement of the specified regulation would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship inconsistent with the objectives of the general plan and intent of this title.
2. That the granting of the minor exception will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
The Applicant has provided their analysis of the necessary findings to approve a MEC in Attachment 4. In addition, the Applicant has also provided a sightline analysis performed by an engineer and two different options for a proposed fence along the southern property line with a maximum height of 10 feet.
Item K.1
May 27, 2026
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave – Pelly Residence
Public Hearing Notice:
Notice of the City Council Public Hearing for the project was published in the Union Tribune more than 10 days prior to the public hearing. The same public hearing notice was mailed to property owners and occupants within 300 feet of the proposed project site on May 13, 2026. Staff has received correspondence from neighbor the current owner of 150 S.
Granados Avenue in opposition to the proposed project. (see Attachment 3) and the Applicant provided a response (Attachment 4).
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15303 of the State CEQA Guidelines. Class 3 consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small facilities or structures. Examples of this exemption include one single-family residence or second dwelling unit in a residential zone. In urbanized areas, up to three-single-family residences may be constructed or converted under this exemption.
FISCAL IMPACT: N/A
WORK PLAN: N/A
OPTIONS:
• Approve Staff recommendation for the Modification and MEC, and adopting the attached Resolution 2026-061.
• Approve Staff recommendation subject to additional specific conditions necessary for the City Council to make all required findings for the approval of a MEC. • Approve Staff recommendation for the Modification; and if the required findings cannot be made, return to Council at a subsequent meeting with an updated resolution reflecting only the Modification.
• Deny the project if all required findings for the MEC cannot be made.
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
The proposed project meets the minimum zoning requirements under the SBMC, may be found to be consistent with the General Plan and may be found, as conditioned, to meet the discretionary findings required as discussed in this report to approve a MEC. Therefore, Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Conduct the Public Hearing: Open the Public Hearing, Report Council Disclosures, Receive Public Testimony, and Close the Public Hearing.
2. Find the project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15303 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and
Item K.1
May 27, 2026
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave – Pelly Residence
3. Find that the circumstances that warranted the conditions of approval in 2003, have changed and therefore, remove conditions of approval B.i and B.ii included in Resolution 2003-070.
4. If the City Council makes the requisite findings to approve a MEC adopt Resolution 2026-061 for a new fence on the southern property line between 146 and 150 S.
Granados Avenue, Solana Beach.
_________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Resolution 2026-061
2. Staff Report Attachment from Applicant
3. Opposition from 150 S. Granados Ave.
4. Response from Applicant
5. VAC Notice of Decision
6. Resolution 2003-070
Item K.1
ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION 2026-061
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOLANA
BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CONDITIONALLY APPROVING A
MODIFICATION TO A DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PERMIT AND
STRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AND A MINOR EXCEPTION
FOR A FENCE ALONG THE SOUTHERN PROPERTY LINE AT 146 S.
GRANADOS AVENUE, SOLANA BEACH, CA.
APPLICANT: Oliver and Shelli Pelly
APPLICATION: MOD26-002/MEC26-002
WHEREAS, Oliver and Shelli Pelly (hereinafter referred to as “Applicant”) have submitted an application for a Modification to the original Development Review Permit (DRP) and Structure Development Permit (SDP) and a Minor Exception pursuant to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Solana Beach Municipal Code (SBMC); and WHEREAS, the Public Hearing was conducted pursuant to the provisions of Solana Beach Municipal Code Section 17.72.030; and
WHEREAS, at the Public Hearing on May 27, 2026, the City Council received and considered evidence concerning the proposed application; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach found the project requested in the application exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15301 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and
WHEREAS, this decision is based upon the evidence presented at the Public Hearing, and any information the City Council gathered by viewing the site and the area as disclosed at the hearing.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolve as follows:
I. That the foregoing recitations are true and correct.
II. That the request for a MOD to the originally approved DRP and SDP to allow for the construction of a fence; and for a MEC to allow for 1) the upper 2 feet of the fence to be changed from 50% open to light and air to opaque; and 2) an increase in the maximum allowed height of the fence, is conditionally approved based upon the following Findings and subject to the following Conditions:
III. FINDINGS:
A. Before granting a minor exception, the director of community development Item K.1
Resolution 2026-061
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave. - Pelly
shall make all of the following findings:
I. That strict or literal interpretation and enforcement of the specified regulation would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship inconsistent with the objectives of the general plan and intent of this title.
(To be completed after Public Hearing)
II. That the granting of the minor exception will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
(To be completed after Public Hearing)
IV. CONDITIONS
Prior to use or development of the property in reliance on this permit, the Applicant shall provide for and adhere to the following conditions:
A. Community Development Department Conditions:
I. Building Permit plans for the proposed fence height configuration must be in substantial conformance with the plan “A” or “B” as presented to and approved at the City Council Meeting on May 27, 2026.
II. Any proposed onsite fences, walls and retaining walls and any proposed railing located on top, or any combination thereof, shall comply with applicable regulations of SBMC Section 17.20.040 and 17.60.070 (Fences and Walls).
III. Pursuant to SBMC 17.68.040 subsection K, the signed final development plan shall be the official site layout for the property and shall be attached to any application for a building permit for the subject property. Any subsequent revisions or changes to the final development plan as approved by the Council will require an amendment to the approved DRP.
B. City Council Conditions:
I. (To be added)
Item K.1
Resolution 2026-061
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave. - Pelly
V. ENFORCEMENT
Pursuant to SBMC 17.72.120(B) failure to satisfy any and all of the abovementioned conditions of approval is subject to the imposition of penalties as set forth in SBMC Chapters 1.1.6 and 1.18 in addition to any applicable revocation proceedings.
VI. EXPIRATION
The Modification to the DRP/SDP and Minor Exception for the project will expire 24 months from the date of this Resolution, unless the Applicant has obtained building permits and has commenced construction prior to that date, and diligently pursued construction to completion. An extension of the application may be granted by the City Council according to SBMC 17.72.110.
VII. INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT
The Applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City, its agents, officers, and employees from any and all claims, actions, proceedings, damages, judgments, or costs, including attorney’s fees, against the City or its agents, officers, or employees, relating to the issuance of this permit including, but not limited to, any action to attack, set aside, void, challenge, or annul this development approval and any environmental document or decision. The City will promptly notify the Applicant of any claim, action, or proceeding. The City may elect to conduct its own defense, participate in its own defense, or obtain independent legal counsel in defense of any claim related to this indemnification.
In the event of such election, the Applicant shall pay all of the costs related thereto, including without limitation reasonable attorney’s fees and costs. In the event of a disagreement between the City and Applicant regarding litigation issues, the City shall have the authority to control the litigation and make litigation related decisions, including, but not limited to, settlement or other disposition of the matter.
However, the Applicant shall not be required to pay or perform any settlement unless such settlement is approved by the Applicant.
NOTICE TO APPLICANT: Pursuant to Government Code Section 66020, you are hereby notified that the 90-day period to protest the imposition of the fees, dedications, reservations or other exactions described in this resolution commences on the effective date of this resolution. To protest the imposition of any fee, dedications, reservations or other exactions described in this resolution you must comply with the provisions of Government Code Section 66020. Generally, the resolution is effective upon expiration of the tenth day following the date of adoption of this resolution, unless the resolution is appealed or called for review as provided in the Solana Beach Zoning Item K.1
Resolution 2026-061
MOD26-002/MEC26-002
146 S. Granados Ave. - Pelly
Ordinance.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, held on the 27th day of May 2026, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers –
NOES: Councilmembers –
ABSENT: Councilmembers –
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers –
______________________________
LESA HEEBNER, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
_____________________________ _______________________________ JOHANNA N. CANLAS, City Attorney ANGELA IVEY, City Clerk Item K.1
1 SUPPLEMENTAL SUBMISSION TO STAFF REPORT
RE: Application for Minor Exception to Fence Height (SBMC § 17.68.030) and Modification of SDP Conditions (Resolution 2003-070)
146 S. Granados Avenue, Solana Beach, CA
Submitted by: Shelli & Oliver Pelly, Property Owners
Date: April 25, 2026
This document is respectfully submitted as an attachment to the Staff Report. Our request to modify the 2003 Structure Development Permit (SDP) conditions and grant a Minor Exception for fence height is based on the City Council’s legislative authority to remove conditions when the factual predicate for those conditions has materially changed.
I. The Legislative Authority to Modify SDP Conditions
The central issue regarding the 2003 fence height condition is straightforward: the City Council had the legislative authority to impose the condition in 2003 based on the facts that existed at that time, and the City Council has the same legislative authority to remove or modify that condition today based on changed conditions.
When the factual predicate for a regulatory condition no longer exists, the condition itself becomes obsolete. We are not asking the Council to invalidate a past decision; we are asking the Council to exercise its ongoing authority to update the regulatory framework governing our property to reflect the reality of what has been built next door at S. Granados.
II. The Original Purpose of the Restriction vs. Changed Conditions The 2003 fence height condition was imposed in 2003 when Don Conley applied for an SDP to develop 146 S Granados and to manage the relationship between Don Conley, the builder/original owner of 146 S Granados, at that time, and the original, single-story, 1,500- square-foot residence that existed at S. Granados Avenue (previously owned by Jeff Proctor).
The original purpose of the fence height restriction between 146 S Granados and S Granados was to protect the then Primary Viewing Area from S Granados kitchen and living room from substantial view impairment. That S Granados home and those rooms no longer exist. 146 S Granados was purchased by the Pelly’s in 2015 & S Granados was purchased by the Derfus’ in 2022.
That original S Granados home was a 1,500-square-foot, single-story structure that stood 16 feet high, was well set back from the shared boundary line, and had no more than two or three ATTACHMENT 2
Item K.1
2 incidental side windows facing the Pelly property. It had no second floor, no elevated deck, and no direct sightlines into the Pelly private living areas or outdoor spaces.
The Changed Conditions:
That original structure no longer exists. In November 2025, the Derfus family demolished it and replaced it with an approximately 3,500-square-foot home — more than twice the original size — deliberately re-oriented to look directly into every exterior space and every south-facing window on the Pelly property from over a dozen vantage points.
The new Derfus construction features a primary social gathering deck elevated six feet off the ground and positioned ten feet from the shared property line — currently separated from the Pelly property by only a three-foot fence — and more than a dozen large northwest-facing windows that look directly down into the Pelly property. This is compounded by the Derfus newly constructed home now on an approximately 6-foot raised foundation plus a 15-foot grade differential between the two parcels, which places the Derfus structure significantly above the Pelly property line and existing 3 foot fence.
The Derfus family further added an ADU as a second floor reaching 25 feet in height. Combined with the existing 15-foot grade differential, this creates a structure with a direct line of sight into the south-facing areas of the Pelly home from an effective elevation of approximately 40 feet above the Pelly property grade.
The original purpose of the 2003 restriction — to govern the relationship between two specific, existing structures and protect the then-primary viewing area of the original neighboring owner — has been entirely extinguished by the Derfus family's decision to demolish the original home and replace it with a structure of fundamentally different size, scale, and orientation.
Notably, Mr. Derfus himself acknowledged the privacy impact of his new construction. In an email dated 2/8/2026, Mr. Derfus confirmed that there are "mutual privacy issues" between the two properties — a concession that the new structure created a privacy problem that did not exist under the original home.
The factual predicate for the 2003 condition is gone.
III. The Remedy: Addressing Mutual Privacy Loss
We respectfully request a Minor Exception to increase the maximum fence height along the southern shared property line with S Granados to a solid 10 feet, tapering to lower heights on the east and west sides of the property in response to the privacy loss.
Independent, licensed engineering analysis (Integral Forensics) utilizing 3D laser scanning confirms that a 10-foot fence is the minimum height required to mitigate the direct, downward sightlines from the adjacent property’s new deck and windows. The Pelly ask is based on science and math not guesswork.
Item K.1
3 IV. Analysis of Minor Exception Findings (SBMC § 17.68.030(F)) The SBMC empowers the Council to grant a Minor Exception if two findings are made. Both are clearly satisfied by the objective facts on the ground.
Finding 1: Strict enforcement would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship.
The hardship is the direct result of exceptional circumstances: the combination of a 15-foot grade differential and the construction of a new, elevated, and invasively oriented home next door. The SBMC specifically anticipates this scenario, authorizing a fence height increase where "the topography of sloping sites or a difference in grade between adjoining sites warrants such increase in height to maintain a level of privacy" (§ 17.68.030(C)(1)(a)).
Strict enforcement of the existing fence limit results in the following specific, daily hardships for the Pelly household:
•The backyard patio, second-story terrace and outdoor living areas are unusable without being directly observed from the Derfus structure occupants. • All south-facing rooms require installation and use of closed blinds whenever Derfus’ and/or guests are present on their deck or occupying any room on their first or second floor.
•All south-facing windows require blackout treatments to prevent direct nighttime observation into the Pelly home.
•The Pelly’s have no control over when, how often, or by how many people their property is observed from the neighboring deck and windows.
This hardship is not self-created. It is a permanent privacy loss caused entirely by the Derfus’ new construction.
Finding 2: Granting the exception will not be detrimental to the public or injurious to properties in the vicinity.
•No Impact on Brookdale or Eastern Views: The requested 10-foot fence is located exclusively on the southern property line. It does not intersect with, block, or impact the views of the properties to the east on Brookdale Place. •No Impact on Public Welfare: The fence replaces an existing fence in the exact same location—there is no new footprint. It is not visible from any public right-of-way and has Item K.1
4 no impact on public health or safety. The height steps down to the SBMC 42” high solid + 24” 80% open in the 35 ft street facing front yard setback. •No Neighbor Objections: No property owner within the 300-foot notice radius has expressed to the Pelly’s objection to this application. On the contrary, 133 Brookdale owners, directly to the East of the properties, visited the Pelly home in February 2026, observed the conditions created by the Derfus construction and stated they do not object to the Pelly proposal.
V. Conclusion
This is a straightforward application for a Minor Exception; a tool created for precisely these circumstances. The City Council has the authority to modify the 2003 SDP conditions because the factual predicate for those conditions—the original neighboring home—no longer exists. The new construction at S. Granados Avenue has created a permanent and unnecessary privacy hardship. A 10-foot fence is the minimum remedy required to restore baseline privacy, it creates no detriment to the public or to eastern views, and it satisfies all requirements for a Minor Exception under the Solana Beach Municipal Code. We respectfully ask the Council to grant the application.
Attachments (Submitted Separately):
1.Integral Forensics - Engineer’s Letter Re: Sightline Analysis & Calculation Methods
2.Plan View Option A & B Fence Dimensions
Item K.1
Item K.1
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4) These privacy issues have existed for years and are inherent in the design of 146 S Granados. For 20 years, the ocean view from the living room at S Granados has looked over the patio at 146. The view to the south from 146 has always looked into the living room at S Granados.
Thank you for considering my input as you make your decision about how to proceed.
Austin Derfus
S Granados Ave
Image from S Granados showing the view blockage that would be caused by permitting a 10’ fence. The 3’ fence portion is at the limit specified in City Council Resolution 2003-70.
Item K.1
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To: Oliver Pelly <[email protected]
>
Cc: Shelli Pelly <
Subject: Re: Fence & Vegetation Height
[Quoted te t hidden]
Item K.1
RESPONSE TO AUSTIN DERFUS LETTER DATED MAY 3, 2026.
RE: Application for Minor Exception to Fence Height (SBMC § 17.68.030) and Modification of SDP Conditions (Resolution 2003-070)
146 S. Granados Avenue, Solana Beach, CA
Submitted by: Shelli & Oliver Pelly, Property Owners
Date: May 12, 2026
The Pelly’s submit this letter as a response to the submission by Austin Derfus, dated May 3, 2026 regarding the Pelly request for a minor exception.
Mr. Derfus does not address the substance of the Pelly application. Two facts eliminate many of the arguments he makes: (1) Mr. Derfus’s concerns about vegetation screening are not before the council in this application and (2) the house that was subject to prior findings related to S. Granados no longer exists.
The Pelly’s are seeking only one thing at the upcoming hearing. They want City Council permission to build a ten-foot solid fence on the property line. They support that request by beginning with a finding of change of circumstances which would support eliminating the fence restrictions on the original development permit to default the fence size requirements to those set forth in the Municipal Code. The findings required for change of circumstance are:
• The change "must be such that the original purpose of the restriction can no longer be realized." Atlas Terminals, Inc. v. Sokol, 203 Cal.App.2d 191 (1962). • The changes "must be so radical as practically to destroy the essential objects and purposes of the agreement." Atlas Terminals, Inc. v. Sokol, 203 Cal.App.2d 191 (1962). • "The change must be such as practically to defeat the purpose of the restriction." Atlas Terminals, Inc. v. Sokol, 203 Cal.App.2d 191 (1962).
A complete demolition and replacement of the protected S Granados structure with a building twice the size, re-oriented with over a dozen windows directly facing the Pelly property, is not a marginal change — it is the complete elimination of the conditions that gave rise to the restriction.
The changed conditions requirements are met. The original purpose of the now 23 year old fence restriction was to protect the PVA from S Granado’s then Kitchen and living room from substantial impairment. That one-story house with a sloped roof (hence, lower vertical ATTACHMENT 4
Item K.1
walls) and a couple incidental windows well set back from the property line and barely above the three-foot fence.
That purpose can no longer be realized because that house has been replaced with a massive two-story house with 12+ windows facing the Pelly property that will still have significant ocean views above the requested ten-foot solid fence. The changes to the Derfus property have destroyed the essential objects of the original fence restriction. Those changes have defeated the purpose of preserving views from a small house with two incidental windows about the threefoot fence. These changes of circumstances justify allowing a solid 8-foot fence, per SBMC §
17.20.040(O)(2).
The Pellys then turn to the application for a minor exception pursuant to SBMC §
17.68.030(C)(1)(a) allowing the additional two feet.
The Derfus home is only entitled to preservation of the “viewing area,” which is defined as the “best and most important” view. SBMC § 17.63.020(I). In his 2023 presentation to the VAC, Mr. Derfus claimed that his “viewing area” is directly to the west. That is his protected view. He is not entitled to a panoramic view at the invasion to his neighbor. The ten-foot fence even preserves the Derfus’ northwestern views because they will be fully available to the second story and to a person standing on the new first floor deck, and their western facing second floor ADU and their western most first floor windows, all of which is more than the code recognizes as a “viewing area”.
Mr. Derfus’s contention that the fence should be negotiated between the property owners is also unavailing. We have reached the City Council because Mr. Derfus has not negotiated in good faith for an appropriate shielding of the Pelly home. All due process requirements have been followed by the City.
Mr. Derfus's suggestion that the Pelly’s must first attempt pergolas, awnings, or other structures finds no support in the Municipal Code. The minor exception process exists precisely to address circumstances like these, and the Pelly’s are entitled to pursue it directly.
Mr. Derfus’s annotated photograph does not depict the view from his designated Primary Viewing Area, which he identified as directly west in his 2023 VAC presentation.
For these reasons, and as set forth in the Pelly’s’ original submission, the Pelly’s request that the City grant their application.
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ATTACHMENT 5
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RESOLUTION NO. 2003 —70
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOLANA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A STRUCTURE
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR A 20- FT HIGH TWO- STORY
RESIDENCE PLUS ATTACHED GARAGE LOCATED AT 146
SOUTH GRANADOS AVENUE ( SDPNAC 334— LOT E)
APPELLANT: JEFFREY PROCTOR
APPLICANT: DON CONLEY
WHEREAS, Don Conley ( hereinafter referred to as " Applicant") has requested issuance of a Structure Development Permit ( SDP) pursuant to Title 17 of the Solana Beach Municipal Code, and
WHEREAS, on March 26, 2003, the City' s View Assessment Committee ( VAC) of the City of Solana Beach, California, held a public meeting to consider the above referenced SDP project, and
WHEREAS, at the VAC Meeting the View Assessment Committee received and considered evidence concerning the proposed project and conditionally approved the request, and
WHEREAS, said approval was appealed to the City Council pursuant to SBMC Section 17. 63. 040. G. by Jeffrey Proctor ( hereinafter referred to as " Appellant") and Don Conley ( hereinafter referred to as "Applicant") respectively, and WHEREAS, a City Council hearing was held on the appeal on June 3, 2003, which was conducted pursuant to the provisions of Section 17. 63. 040 of the Solana Beach Municipal Code, and
WHEREAS, this decision is based upon the evidence presented at the hearing, the Site Plan, the information contained within the Agenda Report, and any information the City Council gathered by viewing the site and the area as disclosed at the hearing.
NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolve as follows:
1. That the foregoing recitations are true and correct.
2. That the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to the State CEQA Guidelines.
3. That the request for a Structure Development Permit with plans dated Received by Planning Department 4-28- 03", and on file with the Community Development Department, is conditionally approved based on the following Findings and subject to the following Conditions:
ATTACHMENT 6
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RESOLUTION NO. 2003- 70
SDPNAC 334
Page No. 2
4. FINDINGS: In accordance with Section 17. 63. 040. F. of the Solana Beach Zoning Ordinance, the City Council finds the following:
A. The Applicant for the Structure Development Permit has made a reasonable attempt to resolve the view impairment issues with the persons requesting view assessment. Accounts and oral presentations addressing communication between the parties involved were presented to the City Council to their satisfaction.
B. The proposed structure does not significantly impair a view from public property ( parks, major thoroughfares, bikeways, walkways, equestrian trails), which has been identified in the City's General Plan, Local Coastal Program, or City designated viewing areas. The General Plan identifies all City designated viewing areas, and the subject property is not identified in the document as such.
C. The proposed structure is designed and situated in such a manner as to minimize impairment of views as conditionally approved. After reviewing all pertinent information, and establishing conditions restricting the height of new vegetation, rear fence height and the overall height of the structure, it was determined by the City Council that the proposal, while having some impact on the existing views, will preserve the remaining views. The City Council determined that the proposal represents a reasonable balance between the Applicant' s right to build and the Appellant' s desire to preserve views.
D. There is no significant cumulative view impairment caused by granting the application as conditionally approved. The City Council determined that there would be no significant cumulative degradation to the views in the neighborhood if the proposal with the condition regarding the maximum height of the structure was to be constructed on other properties in the neighborhood.
E. The proposed structure is compatible with the immediate neighborhood character. The subject property is located in a Low Medium Residential LMR) land use designation, which has a density of 4 dwelling units per acre, and is across the street from land zoned for Office Professional ( OP) which contains a large 3- story office building. Currently, the residential area consists of a combination of one and two-story residences as well as the large office building on the west side of South Granados, and the subject structure as conditioned will be compatible with those structures.
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RESOLUTION NO. 2003- 70
SDP/ VAC 334
Page No. 3
5. CONDITIONS: Unless stated otherwise, the Applicant shall complete the following prior to the issuance of a building permit for the proposed project:
A. The height of the structure shown on plans dated " Received by Planning Department 4- 28- 03" shall be modified as follows:
i) The maximum height of structure shall be 20 feet from existing grade 150. 0 MSL).
ii) The Applicant shall maintain a minimum front- yard setback of 35 feet from the property line as shown on plans dated " Received by Planning Department 4- 28- 03".
iii) The front property line shall be as shown on Improvement Plans # CG3061 labeled " R/ W", and on file with the City of Solana Beach Engineering Department.
B. Height of Fences:
i) No fence shall be higher than three ( 3) feet along the southern property line from the west corner of the existing fence at 150 South Granados Avenue, and then easterly to the sixth pole of the existing fence, a distance of forty ( 40) feet, unless agreed in writing by both the owners of 146 and 150 South Granados Avenue to a different solution meeting City Codes.
ii) Any fence at the rear of the lot shall not exceed the top of the bank 156 MSL) on Brookdale Place on the easterly property line of this property.
C. As volunteered by the Applicant and accepted by the City, the Applicant shall prepare a Deed Restriction to the satisfaction of the City Attorney and for the benefit of Brookdale Place property owners and the property owner of 150 South Granados Avenue prohibiting rooftop appurtenances including but not limited to satellite dishes, antennae, chimneys, etc. except for the minimum- sized required vents.
D. Vegetation Deed Restriction: A deed restriction to limit the height of landscaping and vegetation shall be placed on the property to run with the land and shall be prepared and recorded as follows:
i) Any proposed landscaping and vegetation shall not exceed the height of the first story of the structure ( 13 feet above natural grade) within the front yard setback area and the western 25 feet of the residence. ii) Any proposed landscaping and vegetation in all other areas of the subject lot shall not exceed the roofline eave height of the second story of the structure.
iii) The vegetation restriction shall affect the entire property.
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RESOLUTION NO. 2003- 70
SDPNAC 334
Page No. 4
6. Standard Engineering and Fire Conditions traditionally associated with building permits shall apply as shall School District and the California Coastal Commission requirements.
7. Pursuant to Section 17. 63. 060 of the Solana Beach Municipal Code this Structure Development Permit shall expire and become void twenty-four ( 24) months from the date of final approval ( June 3, 2005) unless a building permit is issued in accordance with the permit and construction is commenced and diligently pursued toward completion.
8. INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT: In the event of litigation, the Applicant shall enter into an Indemnification Agreement with the City of Solana Beach whereby the Applicant agrees to bear the costs associated with defending the project approvals in court. If the City chooses to hire its own attorney, then the City must pay its own costs. City will immediately notify Applicant of any challenge or suggested challenge. The Agreement shall be approved by the City Attorney.
9. NOTICE TO APPLICANT: Pursuant to Government Code Section 66020, you are hereby notified that the 90- day period to protest the imposition of the fees, dedications reservations or other executions described in this resolution commences on the effective date of this resolution. To protest the imposition of any fee, dedications, reservations or other exaction' s described in this resolution you must comply with the provisions of Government Code Section 66020. Generally the resolution is effective upon expiration of the tenth day following the date of adoption of this resolution, unless the resolution is appealed or called for review as provided in the Solana Beach Ordinance.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, held on the 3rd day of June, 2003 by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers — Sheres, Golich, Kellejian, Powell NOES: Councilmembers — None
ABSENT: Councilmembers — Campbell
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers — None A)AA
DOUGLip SHEWES, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATT ST:
CELIA A. BRE City Attorney LAURA S. SEO, City Clerk
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO ss.
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
I, LAURA S. SEO, City Clerk of the City of Solana Beach, California, DO HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing City Council Resolution No. 2003- 70 was duly passed and adopted at a Regular Solana Beach City Council meeting held on the 3rd day of June, 2003, and is the original on file in the City Clerk' s Office.
Vs' LAURA S. SEO, City Clerk o F
I: aPo l
SEAL) lly 1901 *
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Pelly Residence
MOD25-001/MEC26-001
146 S. Granados Avenue
City Council Meeting - May 27, 2026
Pelly– K.1
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Request
Pelly - K.1
Slide 2
Request a Modification (MOD) to the original DRP/SDP to remove or modify conditions of approval from Resolution2003-070 which was adopted when 146 S. Granados Avenue was constructed.
Request for the approval of a Minor Exception (MEC) to allow for an increase to the maximum allowed fence height to a 10-foot solid wall to provide additional privacy from the adjacent development on property to the south.
Request that the fence be solid except for when the fence is within the front yard setback.
May 27, 2026
Item K.1
• In 2003, the original Developer submitted an application for a Structure Development Permit for a two-story, singlefamily residence with an attached garage at 146 S.
Granados Avenue.
• There were two applications for View Assessment for the project at 146 S. Granados Avenue. (150 S. Granados
Avenue and 133 Brookdale Place).
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Background
Slide 3
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May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Zoning Map
Slide 4
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• The VAC approved the project subject to site specific conditions of approval.
• The Developer and the Neighbor at 150 S. Granados
appealed the decision of the VAC to the City Council.
• The City Council approved the project subject to conditions of approval in Resolution 2003-070.
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Background
Slide 5
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• In 2022, the property owner of 150 S. Granados Avenue submitted a DRP/SDP to remodel and add 1,843 square
foot.
• The project received multiple view claims.
• The VAC continued the project for a redesign.
• The property owner withdrew the DRP/SDP application.
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Change in Conditions
Slide 6
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• The project was redesigned to stay below the DRP
thresholds.
• No portion of the primary residence exceeds 16 feet in height.
• The ADU does exceed 16 feet in height but is not subject to discretionary review according to State Law.
• Building permits were issued June 2025. The structure is currently under construction.
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Change in Conditions
Slide 7
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Requests
Pelly - K.1
Slide 8
Fence Height
Allowed per SBMC 17.20.040.O 6 ft + 2 ft 50% open to light and air With approval of MEC per SBMC 17.68.030.C Additional 2 ft of fence May 27, 2026
Currently Allowed Per Reso2003-070 3 ft Fence along Southern Property Line Applicant is Requesting: 1. Remove Specific Fence Height Restriction
2. Allow fence per SBMC for side yard setback
3. Approve MEC for 2 additional feet of fence
4. Allow the entire fence in the side yard to be
solid.
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• SBMC 17.68.030(C)1.a:
The Director may allow an increase to the maximum height of any fence, wall, retaining wall or equivalent screening by a maximum of two feet, where the topography of sloping sites or a difference in grade between adjoining sites warrants such increase in height to maintain a level of privacy, or to maintain effective screening.
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Minor Exception
Slide 9
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May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Site Photos
Slide 10
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May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Slide 11
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May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Slide 12
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In order to approve a minor exception, the City Council shall make all of the following findings:
1. That strict or literal interpretation and enforcement of the specified regulation would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship inconsistent with the
objectives of the general plan and intent of this title.
2. That the granting of the minor exception will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, welfare, or
materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Required Findings
Slide 13
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1. Conduct the Public Hearing: Open the Public Hearing, Report Council Disclosures, Receive Public Testimony, and Close the Public Hearing.
2. Find the project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15303 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and
3. Find that the circumstances that warranted the conditions of approval in 2003, have changed and therefore, remove conditions of approval B.i and B.ii included in Resolution 2003-070.
4. If the City Council makes the requisite findings to approve a MEC adopt Resolution 2026-061 for a new fence on the southern property line between 146 and 150 S. Granados Avenue, Solana Beach.
May 27, 2026
Pelly - K.1
Recommendation
Slide 14
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Our Ask
In response to a new home at 150 S Granados that is more than twice the size of what was there before, and built to look directly into our home… We ask 2 things of Council:
1. Remove a Fence Height Limitation tied to our original SDP, as a result of Changed Conditions.
2. Grant a 2-foot Minor Exception to our south boundary fence (10-feet total) – the Minimum to Address our Family’s Baseline Privacy.
That is the entirety of our ask.
Shelli & Oliver Pelly
146 S Granados Ave
Item K.1
Tonight I will Discuss:
• PART I: Origin of The Restriction
• Part II: Changed Conditions after a new build at 150 S Granados. • PART III: SBMC Minor Exception Remedy.
• PART IV: Civil Engineer Analysis supporting Fence Height Request.
Tonight’s Blueprint Item K.1
Neighborhood Context
Views are important, but so is privacy.
Toolkit pg. 13 By way of context:
• 146 & 150 Adjacent
Properties
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146 Pad is 15-ft
Below 150 Grade
Views are important, but so is privacy.
Toolkit pg. 13
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PART II: Restriction Origin
Fence Height Restriction
Originated:
in 2003
Don Conley, former 146
Owner – wanted:
to Build 2 story home
on 146 lot
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PART II: Restriction Origin
The 150 owner (Jeff Proctor) wanted to:
• Protect his privacy
• Protect against significant view impairment from his
then Primary Viewing Area.
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PART II: Restriction Origin
Proctor identified: Living room/Dining room as 150’s primary viewing area.
Those Rooms and that House are gone.
Item K.1
PART II: Restriction Origin
VAC 2003 RESOLUTION
• Vegetation Height Restriction on 146.
• Fence Height Restriction (never recorded in the Deed). • Both Resolutions were designed to benefit the then PVA for 150, settling a dispute between Conley and Proctor.
Neither the 2003 PVA Kitchen, Living Room, Home, Dispute between Proctor & Conley nor the Purpose of the Resolution exist today.
Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
Changed Conditions & Why They Matter
When the Purpose of a Restriction Can No Longer Be Carried Out – the Servitude Comes to an End Hirsch v Hancock (1959) 173 Cal.App.2d 745
The purpose of the 2003 Fence Restriction was to Protect Views from a One-Story Home. That Home No Longer Exists.
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Conditions Have Changed:
2003-2025:
150 was 1,553 s/f Home
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
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PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
• A-Frame roof
• NO Second-Story ADU
• House oriented to WEST
• FEW small incidental windows facing 146
• NO deck at property line
Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
In 2025, Mr. & Ms. Derfus Changed the Orientation of their home from West to Northwest – facing Directly into our Home.
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150 S Grandos - Today
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150 S Granados Today Item K.1
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PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
12+ Large, Invasive Windows Casting Light + People Peering into our:
• Bedroom and Guest Shower
• Retreat Room
• Upper Exterior Terrace
• Outdoor private Courtyard
• 1st and 2nd Floor Hallways
• 2nd Kitchen
• Living Room
Item K.1
Example of Privacy Intrusion from Pelly Upper Terrace
Original Purpose of
Fence Height
Restriction is Gone.
Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
Existing 3-ft Fence gives
Zero Privacy Mitigation,
Exposing us to:
Unwanted Observation
into our home.
• Spying, Monitoring &
Filming us in our Home.
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Derfus’ view of Pelly home - Daytime
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Fish Bowl Effect: Derfus’ view of Pelly home – Nighttime Item K.1 PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
146 S Granados has remained unchanged.
• Same Footprint
• Same House
• Only change is an Egregious Loss of Privacy
• When the Derfus’ demolished their home, they demolished our privacy.
Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
A New House = New Singular Primary Viewing Area.
The 2003 Structure and 2003 PVA Rooms are gone.
150’s new singular PVA is their
West, Ocean facing 2-Story ADU
Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
SBMC defines PVA in Singular terms. Meaning 1 Room gets limited protection.
Nearly a dozen invasive windows have no
recognized legal protection.
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Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
(slide from Derfus 2023 VAC presentation – Build Denied.) 2023 Derfus Confirmed
at a VAC hearing for a
similar build that his
PVA is West facing and
singular.
Slide to Left is from
Mr. Derfus’ own 2023
VAC presentation.
VAC denied that similar
build citing privacy
concerns.
Item K.1
PART III: Changed Conditions
Requires SDP Fence Height Restriction Removal
PVA is NOT into Our Home
Item K.1
The SDP Fence Condition on 146 was never intended to condone Privacy Intrusion or run into Perpetuity Despite Changed Conditions.
It was:
• A Condition imposed to resolve specific dispute.
• Applied to a particular configuration of 2 structures 1 of which is gone. • Based on a Specific View from a Specific Room.
Part IV: Board Authority for Extinguishment
Changed Conditions Doctrine
Council had the Authority to put the Condition ON the 146 Property.
Council has the Authority to Take the Condition OFF the 146 Property.
Item K.1
Part IV: Board Authority for Extinguishment
VAC Guidelines
We recognize this is not a VAC hearing. However, the city’s own VAC Toolkit Specifically States:
‘The Ordinance does NOT create a right to an unobstructed view.’ No entitlement to perfect view from every floor.
Item K.1
Additionally…
VAC Guidelines Recognize Need for
Lower Property Privacy.
With 146 Veg / Fence Restriction
and 150 Build Configuration
146 has Zero Privacy.
Part IV: Board Authority for Extinguishment
VAC Guidelines
Item K.1
Part IV: Board Authority for Extinguishment
VAC Guideline
VAC Guidelines:
• Recognize the
importance of
Screening for Privacy.
• Today we ask for Fence
Screening to assist
w/Mutual Privacy
Loss.
Item K.1
Feb 8, 2026: Derfus confirms mutual privacy loss
Feb 7: Pelly emails Derfus
proposed Privacy Solution.
Feb 8: Derfus objects yet
Acknowledges mutual
Privacy loss.
Feb 8: Pelly reiterates
Necessary Privacy
Measures.
No further response from
Derfus.
Item K.1
Part V: COMMUNITY CHARACTER:
Our Privacy Solution is Consistent with Neighborhood Character Our proposed Solutions are Consistent with
Community Character.
Following, are 4 Slides Showing:
Privacy Screens w/in 300-feet of 146 and 150
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141 s Granados:
Tall Privacy Screen Protection from Derfus Sightlines
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150 S Granados:
Derfus’ use 30-ft Hedge
to screen their property
from the adjacent
Elevated Brookdale
property.
Pelly’s are requesting a
10-ft fence.
Derfus’ Objecting to the
Pelly fence is a direct
contradiction of their
own Screening Practices.
Item K.1
ADDITIONALLY:
Derfus’ built a Homemade
Fence (in Addition to his
30-ft Hedge) between his
Property and 133
Brookdale.
Derfus’ intentionally
eliminated 133’s PVA.
The Pelly’s Request a 10-
ft, Professionally
Constructed and Installed
Fence, Affecting No One’s
PVA.
West View from 133 Brookdale kitchen.
Derfus’ Fence & Shrubs intentionally block 133 Brookdale’s PVA.
Item K.1
• SBMC 17.68.030 (c)(1)(a) Specifically authorizes a Fence Height Increase where the topography of sloping sites or difference in grade between adjoining sites – warrants such increase in a height to maintain a level of Privacy.
This is precisely our situation:
We have a 15-foot grade differential.
We have an Extreme Loss of Privacy.
We are Requesting a Fence Height Increase.
Part VI: Minor Exception Authority
SMBC 17.68.030
This is consistent with Code.
Item K.1
A Minor Exception requires only 2 Findings
Finding 1: Strict enforcement results in practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship.
1. Outdoor living areas are unusable without being observed.
2. South-facing rooms would require installation of, and use of blinds when the Derfus’ are home.
3. South-facing windows would require installation of, and use of black-out drapes to avoid nighttime observation.
4. Pelly’s have zero control over when, or how many people are looking into our home.
Part VI: Minor Exception Authority
SMBC 17.68.030
Item K.1
Finding 2: Granting the Exception will not be detrimental to the public or injurious to any property.
1. The proposed fence replaces an existing fence in the same location.
2. No new footprint. No impact on public views.
Both findings are clearly satisfied.
Part VI: Minor Exception Authority
SMBC 17.68.030
Item K.1
Part VII: Fence Height Calculations
2-Foot Minor Exception Request (10-feet total)
Licensed Engineer, CA & NV
Assignment: Determine Minimal Fence Height to
Address Baseline Privacy.
Analysis Based on:
o Site Visit, Measurements & Sight-line Scans
o Building Scans
o Surveyors Map
o Topography map
o Conclusions accurate to 1/16”
Item K.1
Baseline Privacy Restoration
8-Foot Fence is Ineffective
8-ft Fence is
Ineffective to
Restore Privacy.
Sight-lines still look
directly into home.
Item K.1
Baseline Privacy Restoration
12-Foot Fence is too high
12-ft Fence is
too high.
Sight lines go well
over our rooftop.
Item K.1
Baseline Privacy Restoration
Goldilocks: 10-Foot Fence
10-ft Fence is
minimum needed to
address baseline
privacy.
Sight lines marginally
skim over Pelly roof,
mitigating Privacy
Loss.
Derfus’ sight line
clears 10-ft fence by
2-feet.
Item K.1
Calculations are Math and Science based. Zero subjectivity. All calculations by Forensic Engineering firm, accurate to 1/16” precision. All supporting documents Submitted to and Reviewed by Staff. 10-foot Fence supported by Objective Evidence Item K.1
Plan View of Proposed Fence Item K.1
Maintains View Corridors & Reduces Privacy Loss
Item K.1
Maintains View Corridors & Addresses Privacy Loss
Pelly 10-foot Fence:
Does NOT Affect
Brookdale views
Top of fence remains
well-below
Brookdale grade.
Item K.1
CLOSING
Our Ask of Council
Due to Changed Conditions:
Remove 3-ft and 5-ft Fence Height Restrictions from SDP – Which Would Then Default The Fence Height to Municipal Code 8 ft. (6 + 2 per code) Approve Fence Height Minor Exception to 10-feet Solid.
This is the Smallest possible Ask for the Largest possible Intrusion.
The Pelly’s thank you for your consideration.
Item K.1
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # L.1.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: Community Development Department
SUBJECT: Coastal Project Status Updates & The State of the Beach BACKGROUND:
Public beach restoration is an important City of Solana Beach and community priority.
Beach restoration through beach sand replenishment is the foundation of ensuring long term coastal resiliency in Solana Beach. The City has partnered with other local agencies as well as regional, State, and Federal agencies to develop a suite of coastal resilience projects to address existing sediment deficits causing coastal erosion as well as to ensure long-term adaptation planning in preparing for rising seas.
This item is before the City Council to provide an informational update on the status of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project (CSDRP), the SANDAG Regional Beach Sand Project (RBSP) III and the Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program conducted by the City in partnership with SANDAG.
DISCUSSION:
Beach sand provides recreational and cultural enjoyment and is also considered a green or soft solution to shoreline protection. More sand means a reduced need for seawalls and other hard structures because the sand functions as a natural buffer to protect the City’s coastal bluffs from direct wave energy and runup. Keeping the City’s beaches wide is an important City goal because it also protects critical public infrastructure, coastal access stairways, Marine Safety Headquarters, lifeguard towers and the Fletcher Cove access ramp.
USACE Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project:
After two decades of planning, environmental review, permitting, and pre-construction monitoring, in January 2024, the City initiated the first stage of the 50 year “Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project” with our local, state, and federal partners including the City of Encinitas, State Parks, and the USACE. The City placed 700,000 cubic yards of sand on the beach. The sand was sourced from an offshore borrow site approximately 1.5 miles offshore of the San Dieguito River mouth. One year of pre-construction monitoring was Item L.1
May 27, 2026
Coastal Project Status Updates
completed and two years of post-construction monitoring is in progress and is expected to conclude in Fall/Winter 2026.
The USACE Project monitoring program includes the following elements:
• Beach habitat
• Rocky reef and intertidal zone
• Surfgrass
• Borrow site
• Seabed morphology
• Water quality
• Benthic habitat quality
• Surf zone
• Physical beach transects
• Lagoon monitoring
• Overall project performance
Staff will report back to the Council when monitoring is complete to report on the results of the two-year post-construction monitoring program being conducted by the USACE.
The City expects to implement the next sand placement event with the USACE in ten years (e.g., 2034) using 290,000 cubic yards of sand for renourishment. Encinitas is on a 5/6- year renourishment cycle and is expected to be synchronized with the City of San Clemente USACE Project which is on the same 5/6-year renourishment cycle. All future phases of the Project are subject to funding availability.
SANDAG Regional Beach Sand Project:
The City of Solana Beach has partnered with SANDAG and other coastal cities in San Diego and Orange County to implement a third Regional Beach Sand Project (i.e., RBSP III) which will promote long term coastal resilience within the Oceanside Littoral Cell.
The City has participated in SANDAG Regional Beach Sand Project I in 2001 and RBSP II in 2011/2012. 140,000 cubic yards of sand were added to City beaches for both RBSP I and II. SANDAG is currently gearing up to implement a third RBSP which would deliver 300,000 cubic yards of sand to the City. SANDAG is also evaluating the possibility of having the RBSP become more programmatic such that environmental review documentation and permits can be obtained to streamline sand placement in the future.
RBSP III has three phases: Phase1, Planning and Economic Analysis; Phase 2, Engineering and Environmental Review; and Phase 3, Construction and Monitoring.
SANDAG has just completed Phase 1 for RBSP III and SANDAG staff are currently seeking funds to fund Phase 2. The City of Solana Beach provided a letter of support to seek federal funding to support these important regional efforts.
Item L.1
May 27, 2026
Coastal Project Status Updates
SANDAG applied for $5 million in grant funding from California State Parks, Division of Boating and Waterways to initiate Phase 2 of RBSP III. If funded, these monies would be made available as part of state’s FY 27 budget in approximately late Summer 2027. We will know more when the Governor’s revised May 2026 budget is published. SANDAG also applied for a $1 million in federal funding. The federal funding would provide the necessary matching funds for the State Parks, DBW grant such that no local funds would be required if both grants are successful.
Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program:
The City maintains active permits for SCOUP (Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program) from the California Coastal Commission, State Lands Commission, Regional Water Quality Control Board and the USACE. SCOUP is a companion sand replenishment strategy using opportunistically available beach compatible sediments from upland sources and sites to restore the public beach. The City implemented a SCOUP project in April 2021 placing approximately 25,000 cubic yards of sand on the beach that was excavated for an underground parking structure associated with a mixed-use, redevelopment project along Highway 101 in Solana Beach. Any projects generating more than 10,000 cubic yards of export are evaluated by City staff for potential participation in the City’s SCOUP program.
Shoreline Monitoring Program: The City conducts shoreline monitoring each Fall and Spring to measure the maximum and minimum widths of the City’s beach. This data is used to inform both local and regional coastal resiliency building efforts. The City’s program is a companion data collection effort to the SANDAG Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program in which the City also participates.
Each year, data is collected and reported to the City and to SANDAG. The data is made publicly available to everyone via the SANDAG website. Based on the monitoring data collected, a summary report is prepared along with a presentation reporting on shoreline trends both locally and regionally. This report on the overall health of the beach is referred to as “State of the Beach.”
According to the monitoring program data, the City’s shoreline has widened by ~300 feet since 1999 when the monitoring program was first initiated. Based on consistent and comprehensive beach nourishment efforts by the City in partnership with others including the City of Encinitas, the San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy (now the Nature Collective), SANDAG, California State Parks and the USACE the City was awarded a national “Best Restored Beach” award in Fall 2025 from the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) during their national conference held in Long Beach in 2025.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
This informational update is not a project under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant.
Item L.1
May 27, 2026
Coastal Project Status Updates
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact of this Staff Report as it is meant as a project status update.
WORK PLAN:
The coastal projects described in this report are included in the 2025/26 City Council Work Plan under Coastal and Environmental Ongoing Priorities, Items A through D.
OPTIONS:
• Receive the Informational report and provide input to Staff.
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
1. Receive and file the informational updates provided. _________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Item L.1
CITY OF SOLANA B EACH
Coastal P roject
Inform ational Updates
May 27, 20 26
Item L.1
COASTAL PROJECT UPDATES
2 • This item is before the City Council to provide an informational update on the status of the following coastal projects:
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project (CSDRP)
• SANDAG Regional Beach Sand Project (RBSP) III
• Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program conducted by SANDAG + City • City has dedicated coastal project website with more information:
https://www.cityofsolanabeach.ca.gov/en/government/departments /community-development/shoreline-management
Item L.1
ENSUR ING LONG TER M COASTAL R ESILIENCE
3 • Public beach restoration is an important City + community priority. • Create a walkable beach with full public access along the coastline. • Beach sand replenishment is the foundation for ensuring long term coastal resiliency in Solana Beach.
• City has partnered with other local agencies, regional, State and Federal agencies to develop a suite of coastal resilience projects. • Projects address existing sediment deficits causing coastal erosion. • Projects are also the foundation of long-term adaptation planning.
Item L.1
FEDERAL BEACH SAND PROJECT
4 • Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project is a partnership between City + State Parks + USACE
• In 2024, USACE Project created a new 150-foot wide beach • 700,000 CY sand placed in 2024
• Post-construction monitoring is ongoing
• Next cycle (e.g., Stage 2) PED in 2031
• Construction anticipated in 2034
• Renourishment volume = 290,000 CY
Item L.1
FEDERAL
BEACH SAND
PROJECT
FOOTP R INTS
SOLANA BEACH
& ENCINITAS
5 Item L.1
FEDERAL POST-P R OJECT MONITOR ING
6 The USACE 2-year post construction monitoring program includes:
Sandy Beach habitat
Rocky reef, surfgrass and intertidal zone
Borrow site and seabed morphology (bathymetry)
Benthic habitat quality
Water quality
Lagoon monitoring
Surfing resources
Physical beach transects to measure overall project performance Item L.1
FEDERAL BEACH SAND PROJECT COSTS
7 • Project is cost shared by all partners (Federal / State / Local) • USACE paid 65% of the cost for initial nourishment project • Non-Federal Cost was 35%
• City paid 15% of non-federal cost
• State Parks paid 85% of non-federal cost via grants to the City • State Parks, Division of Boating & Waterways is key funding partner • Costs updated and came in higher than originally planned ($49M) • Additional cost share match is required per USACE
• Both Solana Beach & Encinitas have been asked for additional funds Item L.1
FEDER AL B EACH SAND P R OJECT FUNDING
8 • USACE requested an additional $1,883,000 from Solana Beach • Grant Application to State Parks, DBW for 85% of this cost • Amount requested in the grant application = $1,600,000 • City will need to contribute 15% match = $283,000
• DBW Grant Application required City Council Resolution (April 2026) • State Grant application is still pending
• If City is successful, grant $$$ will become available in Summer 2027.
Item L.1
AGE ND A ITE M: INFOR MATIONAL UP D ATE
• No Action Required
• Next USACE Update Fall 2026
• Susie Ming, PE, USACE Project Manager
• USACE MonitoringData available:
• https://www.spl.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/Projects-and-Studies/Solana-EncinitasShoreline-Study/ • Next Up Tonight:
• Keith Greer, SANDAG: RBSP III Update
• GregHearon, Coastal Frontiers: State of the Beach
9 Item L.1
STATE OF THE BEACH REPORT
Coastal Frontiers Corporation
Photo: Solana Beach, May 21, 2026 May 27, 2026
Item L.1
OVERVIEW
Beach Nourishment
Shoreline Monitoring Program
Observations
• Regional Changes
• Solana Beach Changes
What’s Next
• Future Projects
• Beach Nourishment and SLR Adaptation
Southern Oceanside Littoral
* Solana Beach
Northern Oceanside Littoral Item L.1
0 1,000,000
2,000,000
3,000,000
4,000,000
5,000,000
6,000,000
7,000,000
8,000,000
1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 2024 2026 Cumulative Nourishment Volume (cy)
Monitoring Year
Oceanside Cell
Silver Strand Cell
Mission Beach Cell
RBSP I RBSP II SELRP
CSDRP Year Project Quantity
2001 RBSP I 146,000 cy
2012 RBSP II 142,000 cy
2018 SELRP 146,000 cy
2021 SCOUP 21,000 cy
2024 CSDRP 702,000 cy
Total = 1,011,000 cy
46,000 cy/yr
Beach Nourishment
Solana Beach Projects
Item L.1
Regional Shoreline Monitoring Program
History
• Conducted with SANDAG
• Established in 2022 (SANDAG in 1996)
• Sustainable
• Adaptive (e.g., expanded for CSDRP)
Objectives
• Measure Changes in Shorezone
• Monitor and Evaluate Beach Nourishment
• Document Impact of Natural Events
Item L.1
Beach Profile Surveys
Spring and Fall
Back beach to beyond DOC
Transect SD-0600
Fletcher Cove
Item L.1
Item L.1
Observations
Scale
• Regional – Oceanside Cell
• Local – Solana Beach
Beach Metrics
• MSL Beach Width
• Shorezone Volume
Analysis Period – Post-RBSP I (2000-2025)
Item L.1
Long
-term
Change
Fall 2025
Beach Width
Item L.1
Shorezone Volume Changes: 2000-2025
Oceanside Cell
Item L.1
Beach Width and Shorezone Volume Changes: 2000-2025
Solana Beach
-160
-140
-120
-100
-80
-60
-40
-20
0 20
40 60
80 100
120
140
160
180
200
220
240
200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014201520162017201820192020202120222023202420252026 MSL Beach Width Change
Shorezone Volume Change
SD-0600
Ave. Change
Beach Width (ft) / Shorezone Vol. (cy/ft)
Year
RBSP I RBSP II SELRP
146,000 cy
0.14 mm
142,000 cy
0.55 mm
146,000 cy
0.20 mm
CSDRP
702,000 cy
0.08-0.95 mm
Item L.1
0 50
100
150
200
250
300
350
1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025
MSL Beach Width (ft)
Date
SD-0600
Fletcher Cove
RBSP I
RBSP II
Pre-RBSP I
Avg. = 104 ft
Post-RBSP I
Avg. = 132 ft
Post-RBSP II
Avg. = 185 ft
SELRP
Post-SELRP
Avg. = 211 ft
CSDRP
Post-CSDRP
Avg. = 295 ft
Item L.1
Item L.1
Future Projects
USACE CSDRP
50-yr Federal Project
290,000 cy renourishment on 10-yr cycle
Next nourishment: ~2034
SANDAG RBSP
RBSP III in Feasibility/Planning Phase
300,000 cy proposed for RBSP III
Exploring a programmatic approach
SCOUP (up to 150,000 cy/yr permitted over next 10 years) Item L.1
Beach Nourishment and
Sea Level Rise Adaption
Sea Level Rise (SLR)
Scenario
Shoreline Loss
Due to SLR
Nourishment Volume
to Counter SLR
0.26 ft -10 ft 30,000 cy
1.0 ft -45 ft 130,000 cy
2.0 ft -100 ft 280,000 cy
Beach width losses and nourishment volumes estimated based on the of equilibrium beach profile concept, the Brunn rule, and beach profile characteristics at Solana Beach. Length of Solana Beach reach taken as 6,500 ft.
Item L.1
Conclusions
Beach Nourishment
1 mcy placed at Solana Beach since 2000
Effective tool for SLR Adaptation
Future projects (regional and local) critical to maintain beach condition Beach Condition
Sustained beach width gains following each major nourishment projects ~ 200 ft net beach width gain since RBSP I
Beach width gains directly attributable to effective sediment management Item L.1
16 Questions
Item L.1
Regional Shoreline
Preservation Program
Solana Beach City Council
Keith Greer, Deputy Director, SANDAG
May 27, 2026
Item L.1
| 2
Regional Shoreline Preservation Program
Since 1980’s
Over 22 million visitors per year visit the San Diego region’s beaches generating over $2.8 BILLION per year in beach spending Item L.1
1983 El Nino
Unprecedent Storm Damage
| 3
Oceanside Strand
Crystal Pier Storm Damage
North Leucadia
Item L.1
Proliferation of Seawalls
Leucadia in 1991
Leucadia in 1992
| 4
Item L.1
SANDAG Policy Documents
July 1993 October 2001 March 2006 March 2009
| 5
Item L.1
Regional
Shoreline
Monitoring
Program
Est. since 1996
Purpose: measure the
changes in beach width
and nearshore sand
volume over time to
evaluate the change in
erosion, sand transport
and document the
benefits of sand
replenishment projects.
Annual Reports
Item L.1
2001 – Regional Beach Sand Project
• 2.1 million cubic yards of sand
• Cost $18 million
• Jurisdiction's paid for Planning
• Engineering, Environmental and Construction
• 60% Federal Funding & 40% State Funding
2012 – Regional Beach Sand Project II
• 1.4 million cubic yards of sand
• Cost $26 million
• Jurisdiction's paid for Planning
• Engineering, Environmental and Construction
• 85% State Funding & 15% Local Funding
Regional Beach Sand Projects I & II
| 7
Item L.1
The 3 Stages of RBSP III
| 8
Phase I
Planning, Feasibility &
Economic Analysis
Phase II
Engineering & Environmental
Phase III
Construction & Monitoring
Est. $200,000 Est. $6 million Est. TBD
(Completed in 2025) (Seeking grant funding)
Item L.1
| 9
New Shoreline Resilience Task Force
• Technical task force to replace Shoreline Preservation Working Group
• Membership: local jurisdictions, government
agencies, scientific and community advisors
◦ Update & combine SANDAG shoreline policies documents
into one plan
◦ Collaboration on coastal monitoring and regional beach nourishment projects
Item L.1
Stay connected with SANDAG
Explore our website
SANDAG.org
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (619) 619-6942
Follow us on social media:
@SANDAGregion @SANDAG
Project Manager: Courtney Becker
Item L.1
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # L.2.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: Fire Department - Colin Stowell, Fire Chief SUBJECT: Fire Department Update
BACKGROUND:
In June 2025, the Encinitas City Council voted to exit the Cooperative Fire Management Services Agreement (FMSA) for shared fire management services with the cities of Del Mar and Solana Beach (Cities), effective March 31, 2026. In January 2026, the City of Solana Beach and the City of Del Mar entered into an Interim Cost Sharing Agreement (Agreement) for Fire Management Transition Services. Under the Agreement, the Cities brought on Interim Fire Chief Colin Stowell in January 2026, to help facilitate a smooth management transition including assisting the Cities with hiring a permanent Fire Chief and development of a proposed Fire Department management structure. Additionally, the Cities approved hiring of an Interim Fire Marshal and other interim fire prevention positions in February 2026.
This staff report is presented for Council as an informational update. As the Cities look to bring on permanent fire management personnel, establish an organizational structure for fire management services, and finalize a Cost Sharing Agreement, these actions are necessary to ensure fire management and prevention needs for both agencies are efficiently and adequately staffed to continue to meet community needs.
DISCUSSION:
Under the prior FMSA between Del Mar, Encinitas, and Solana Beach, the cities proportionally shared the cost of nine fire management and administrative positions, with Del Mar and Solana Beach contributing approximately $950,000 annually. The shared positions included Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, four Battalion Chiefs, Fire Marshal, Senior Management Analyst, and an Administrative Captain (10 FTE). Separately, the City of Solana Beach employs a Fire Prevention Specialist dedicated to fire prevention activities for their community.
Fire operational “floor” personnel, including Fire captains, engineers, and firefighter paramedics, are employed directly by each agency, with Del Mar directly employing 9 nonmanagement fire positions, and Solana Beach directly employing 18 non-management fire Item L.2
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Update
positions. Each City has one fire station that houses their fire staff and geographically provides emergency fire response services to their communities. The Cities also have their own fire engines and other equipment necessary for emergency response. These costs are paid for directly by each respective City and are not shared.
Based on a detailed evaluation of the Cities’ joint operational needs, the Interim Fire Chief has prepared a proposed Del Mar and Solana Beach Joint Fire Management Organizational Chart (Attachment 1) which includes the following permanent positions that have been deemed necessary in order to meet the emergency response and fire prevention needs of the Cities: Fire Chief, Management Analyst, Fire Marshal, two Fire Battalion Chiefs, and two Fire Prevention Specialists. This proposed structure is lean yet operationally efficient and is designed to meet the Cities’ service needs.
Under the new proposed Fire Management structure, the Fire Chief is responsible for the overall management and operations of the Fire Department including fire prevention, suppression, inspections, emergency medical services, disaster preparedness, and other related programs. The Fire Chief will coordinate assigned activities with other departments, officials, outside agencies, and the public, as well as provide highly responsible and complex support to the City Managers.
The proposal also includes two Battalion Chief positions that would be responsible for daily emergency management (shift and incident command) as well as administrative functions such as community outreach, training and recruitment, emergency medical response and CSA-17 coordination, fleet and logistics, and facilities management, which would be divided between the two positions. While regional mutual aid agreements can cover emergency responses on an as-needed or short-term basis, mutual aid cannot be relied upon long-term, making the Fire Chief and two Battalion Chiefs essential to ensure the Cities emergency response needs are met. One Management Analyst position is also needed to provide administrative and analytical support to Fire Management staff related to budgeting, contracting, grant management, community outreach/education, agenda report preparation, scheduling, and other operational support needs.
Additionally, fire prevention demands continue to grow due to new state regulations, evolving industry standards, and updated fire hazard severity zone maps. Core fire prevention responsibilities include plan and building permit review for fire code compliance; inspections related to event tents, property sales, Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in high and very-high fire severity zones; annual and new business inspections; fire investigations; administration of the brush management program; and public outreach and education. The proposed structure of one Fire Marshal and two Fire Prevention Specialists (one primarily dedicated to each City) will ensure these functions are effectively managed.
The Fire Marshal will oversee division operations, implement policies and procedures, coordinate with the public, City departments, and outside agencies, and review complex discretionary projects. The two Fire Prevention Specialists will conduct inspections, Item L.2
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Update
coordinate with fire prevention crews, and support outreach and education efforts.
Establishing three dedicated fire prevention positions will provide continuity of coverage for both Cities, ensure adequate staffing for these critical functions, and allow suppression crews to continue supporting prevention efforts while maintaining primary suppression and emergency response responsibilities. Additionally, staff will work with CalPERS on an administrative contract amendment process to add these positions and designate them as safety, which is appropriate based on the risks and responsibilities of the roles as well as regional industry standards.
Under the proposed Second Amendment to the Interim Cost Sharing Agreement, the Cities will equitably share costs associated with shared personnel on an interim basis while a more formal agreement for shared services and costs is being developed. As proposed, the City of Solana Beach will hire the Fire Chief, one Fire Prevention Specialist, and already has one dedicated Management Analyst and the City of Del Mar will hire the Fire Marshal and a second Fire Prevention Specialist. The two Battalion Chief positions will be filled based on the results of an upcoming internal promotional testing process in May 2026, with the successful candidates being hired by their current agency to fulfill the shared responsibilities for both Cities.
The proposed Del Mar and Solana Beach joint management structure is anticipated to cost approximately $1,700,000 annually for the recommended positions of Fire Chief, Fire Marshal, two Battalion Chiefs, two Fire Prevention Specialists, and a Management Analyst, as described in this report. Under this shared management structure, both Cities will have more direct control from their fire department enabling enhanced service-delivery to meet community needs, especially in the growing area of fire prevention. The proportionality of shared costs will be established in a proposed formalized cost sharing agreement that is currently under development and will be presented to the Cities’ respective Councils for consideration in the coming months.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
The formal cost sharing agreement between the Cities is still being negotiated. The FY 2026/27 annualized costs and cost shares will be presented to Council as part of the FY 2026/27 Budget Update, or as a separate action once details are confirmed and finalized.
WORK PLAN:
This item is included in the 2025/26 Work Plan under IV. Youth, Senior, and Community Well-being, 8. Healthy and Livable Communities, FY2025/26 Action C. “Continue to work with our Public Safety Departments to ensure a safe and welcoming community. This includes fire safety, law enforcement participation and Marine Safety involvement to ensure Item L.2
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Update
residents and visitors feel safe, businesses have access to resources and feel secure, and residents have tools to ensure the protection of their property.” OPTIONS:
• Receive and file staff report and provide input to City Staff.
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council receive and file this informational staff report update.
_________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Joint Fire Management Organizational Chart
Item L.2
Del Mar and Solana Beach
Joint Fire Management Organizational Chart
Fire Chief
Fire Marshal
Oversight of the Fire Prevention Division
Develops and implements polices, procedures, and SOPs
Department Liaison with other city departments
Prepares and administers budget, programs, and division goals Performs specialized and complex discretionary, developmental, fire suppression, and construction plan reviews
Develop and implement public education programs
Training and supervision of fire prevention staff
Develop and maintain a fire investigation program and personnel Fire Prevention Specialist (2)
Coordinates prevention activities with suppression crews Performs life safety inspections of structures
Performs WUI inspections
Conducts public education presentations
Interprets and applies codes, laws, regulations and
ordinances
Resident concern responses
Fire investigations
Battalion Chief
Emergency Management
Community Outreach
Health and Safety
Recruitment/Promotions
Logistics
Fleet
Facilities
Communications
Emergency incident call-back
Battalion Chief
Operations (SOL 18/DMR 9)
Training Officer
Cal JAC
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
CSA-17
Vector Solutions Manager
Telestaff Manager
Palomar College Fire 98 lead instructor
Emergency incident call-back
Management
Analyst
Item L.2
Fire Department Updates
Fire Dept – May 27, 2026
Item L.2
Fire Department
The City of Encinitas exited the Cooperative Fire Management Services Agreement (FMSA) with Del Mar and Solana Beach on March 31, 2026.
Del Mar and Solana Beach have partnered to ensure a successful fire management transition including:
• Approval of an Interim Cost Sharing Agreement in January 2026, amended in February 2026, to cover cost sharing for key fire management, fire prevention positions, and other associated costs. • Hiring Interim Fire Chief Colin Stowell and Interim Fire Marshal Hans Schmidt and two part-time Fire Prevention Technicians.
• Coordinating the purchase of key vehicles for Fire command and prevention staff. • Ongoing operational coordination to transition staff training and timekeeping platforms, aligning policies and procedures, coordinating on recruitments, and other administrative functions.
Under the former FMSA between Encinitas, Del Mar and Solana Beach, the Cities proportionally shared the cost of nine fire management and administrative positions, contributing approximately $950,000 toward these positions annually.
Separate from any joint management agreement, Del Mar and Solana Beach employ their own fire “floor” personnel; maintain one fire station each within their jurisdiction; own and maintain their own engines, equipment, and vehicles; and directly pay for their department’s associated operational costs.
His tory / B ackground
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 2
Item L.2
Fire Department
P ropos ed J oint Fire Management S tructure
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 3
Item L.2
Fire Chief
Fire Chief
Provides executive leadership and oversight of all Fire Department operations, including fire suppression, fire prevention, EMS, emergency preparedness, disaster
response, and public safety services. Serves as the primary fire service advisor to the City Managers and City Council, maintaining direct coordination with City leadership,
department directors, regional agencies, and community
partners on fire protection, emergency management, and
operational matters.
Represents the City on regional and county fire service boards and committees, including the North Zone Chiefs, County Fire Chiefs, North Zone JPA Board, Unified Disaster Council, and CSA-17 Board. Oversees department
budgeting, procurement, contracts, RFPs, capital planning, and disaster preparedness programs to ensure effective
service delivery, fiscal accountability, and emergency
readiness.
Fire Department
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 4
Item L.2
Fire Management Analys t
Management Analyst
Provides administrative, analytical, and operational
support to the Fire Chief and Fire Department,
including budget development and monitoring,
contracts, procurement, and Requests for Proposals
(RFPs). Prepares agenda reports, manages invoices,
purchase orders, Cal Card reconciliations, travel and
training reimbursements, and supports department
purchasing, office operations, scheduling, and public
education supply coordination.
Coordinates and supports City emergency
management and disaster preparedness programs,
including NIMS compliance, emergency operations
planning, hazard mitigation planning, emergency
contact list management, and assistance with
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) exercises and
implementation activities. Assists with administration, cost recovery, and compliance related to UASI and
SHSP grants. Supports CSA-17 compliance activities,
including maintenance of employee exclusion lists,
while assisting with overall departmental programs and
operational needs.
Fire Department
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 5
Item L.2
2 Battalion Chiefs
Responsible for daily shift supervision, emergency incident command, personnel management, and operational oversight of fire suppression, EMS, and emergency response activities. Both Battalion Chiefs serve as emergency incident call-back coordinators and Strike Team Leaders, providing leadership during large-scale incidents, mutual aid deployments, and regional emergency operations. Administrative and program management responsibilities are divided between the two positions to support department operations, training, health and safety, EMS coordination, logistics, and organizational readiness.
One Battalion Chief oversees Operations for Solana Beach and Del Mar response areas, EMS and quality assurance programs, CSA-17 operations, Telestaff administration, facilities, fleet, logistics, communications systems, PPE and SCBA programs including fit testing, RMS reporting, personnel issues and investigations, and serves as the department’s OES liaison. The second Battalion Chief oversees department training and health and safety programs, serves as Lead Instructor for Palomar College Fire 98, coordinates Cal-JAC and Vector Solutions programs, recruitment and promotional processes, probationary testing, CICCS/IROC credential tracking, annual physicals, behavioral health coordination, and peer support programs.
B attalion Chiefs
Fire Department
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 6
Item L.2
Fire Marshal
Fire Marshal
Oversees and manages the Fire Prevention Division,
including fire code enforcement, complex discretionary
development and construction plan reviews, fire suppression system review, fire investigations, emergency management, and community risk reduction programs. Develops and
implements division policies, procedures, goals, and public education initiatives; prepares and administers division budgets and programs; and provides training, supervision, and professional development for fire prevention personnel.
Serves as the department liaison with other City departments, developers, businesses, and the public on fire prevention, code compliance, life safety, and emergency planning
matters. Leads community outreach and public education
efforts, develops and maintains the department’s fire
investigation program and personnel, and supports citywide preparedness and risk reduction initiatives.
Fire Department
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 7
Item L.2
Fire S pecialist
Fire Department
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 8
2 Fire Prevention Specialists
Two Fire Prevention Specialists conduct fire inspections, weed abatement, fire investigations, damage assessment
coordination, public education events, and coordinate fire prevention activities with fire suppression personnel. The positions support community risk reduction, code
compliance, emergency preparedness, and public outreach efforts throughout the community.
Administrative and program responsibilities are divided between the two positions. One specialist oversees WUI and Fire Hazard Severity Zone programs, serves as liaison to FireWise communities, the Fire Safe Council, and HOA
groups, and coordinates the “Listos” public education
program. The second specialist manages community risk
messaging and social media outreach, oversees the smoke detector program, and coordinates inspections and
compliance activities for state-regulated facilities.
Item L.2
Hiring positions between the
Cities:
• Solana Beach to hire the Fire Chief,
one (1) Fire Prevention Specialist
and Management Analyst
• Del Mar to hire the Fire Marshal and
one (1) Fire Prevention Specialist
• The two (2) Battalion Chief positions
will be filled based on the results of
an internal promotional testing
process conducted in May 2026 .
Hiring P os itions
Fire Department
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 9
Item L.2
Fire Department
E s timated Cos t & B enefits
May 27, 2026
Fire Dept Updates
Slide 10
The proposed joint fire management structure is anticipated to cost a total of $1.7 million annually for the seven staff positions, which will be shared between the Cities.
The proportionality of shared costs will be established in a proposed formalized cost sharing agreement that is currently under development and will be presented to the Cities respective Councils for consideration in the coming months.
Benefits of the proposed new Fire command structure includes:
• More direct oversight/control of the Cities’ fire management • Enhanced service-delivery to meet community needs
• More dedicated resources to fire prevention which is a growing need for the Cities Item L.2
Fire Department
QUES TIONS ?
May 27, 2026
Fire Department Updates
Slide 11
Item L.2
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # L.3.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: Engineering Department, Austin Frisby, Principal Civil Engineer | City Engineer
SUBJECT: Approve Resolution 2026-057 Awarding a Construction Contract to Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc.; Resolution 2026-058 Amending a Professional Services
Agreement with Michael Baker International; and
Resolution 2026-059 Executing a Professional Services
Agreement with Kleinfelder Construction Services for
Construction Management and Inspection for the Lomas
Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project (CPFCDS
5445 (0008))
BACKGROUND:
The Lomas Santa Fe Corridor is the City’s primary east–west arterial and provides access to schools, parks, the library, transit, and commercial areas. The City has advanced the Lomas Santa Fe–East (Santa Helena to Highland Drive) Improvement Project with design, funding, and agency coordination over several years to prepare the Loma Santa Fe-East Improvement Project for construction. The Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03, CPFCDSL 5445(008), will maintain two lanes of travel in both directions, and includes new sidewalks, a multi-use trail, bicycle lanes, landscaped medians, and pedestrian enhancements, including benches, decorative paving of the sidewalks and trash receptacles. i Improvements consist of the demolition, grind and overlay of roadway pavement, sidewalk paving, landscape plantings, irrigation systems, traffic signals, street light relocations, enhanced bicycle and pedestrian improvements, drainage improvements, bioretention basins, traffic control, and all other related work and appurtenances.
This item is before the City Council to consider:
• Resolution 2026-057 (Attachment 1) – Award a construction contract to Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc., the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. • Resolution 2026-058 (Attachment 2) – Authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 5 to the Professional Services Agreement with Michael Baker International for continued engineering support.
Item L.3
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Award
• Resolution 2026-059 (Attachment 3) – Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Kleinfelder Construction Services for construction management and inspection.
DISCUSSION:
Construction Contract – Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc.
The construction documents for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03, CPFCDSL 5445(008), were prepared and the project was advertised for construction bids in March 2026. On April 14, 2026, six bids for the Bid No. 2026-03 were received and publicly opened by the City Clerk. The bids are listed below in Table 1.
Table 1: Bid Results
Bidders Base Bid
Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. $6,740,708.00 Dick Miller, Inc. $6,861,519.00*
Eagle Paving $6,925,670.00
Palm Engineering Construction Company, Inc. $6,983,248.00 LB Civil Construction, Inc. $8,209,349.00
Griffith Company $9,633,778.00
*Bidder was deemed non-responsive
One Bidder (Dick Miller, Inc.) was deemed non-responsive during the bid evaluation period due to failure to provide unit prices and total costs for multiple bid items, which constitutes an incomplete bid submission.
The apparent low bid submitted by Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc., was found to be complete and responsive to the bid specifications. Prior work references were checked and found to be satisfactory, and Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. has a valid contractor’s license. Staff is recommending that Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. be awarded the construction contract. The contract amount is based on the City Engineer’s estimated unit quantities and the contractor’s bid unit prices. The final cost of the project will be based on field measurements and the actual quantities completed. The estimated contract duration is 220 working days (44 weeks/11 months).
The project is anticipated to be started in early Fall 2026 and be completed in late summer 2027. A map of the Project limits is included as Attachment 4.
Michael Baker International (MBI) - Professional Services Agreement Amendment Item L.3
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Award
On February 13, 2019, the City entered into a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with Michael Baker International (MBI) to provide engineering design services for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor Phase III Project, including the development of Plans, Specifications, and Estimate (PS&E) to prepare the project for bid and advertisement.
MBI has been involved with the project since 2016, and has provided engineering design, community engagement, agency coordination, and federal grant compliance support throughout the project's development. The PSA has been amended four times to reflect the evolving scope of work, bringing the total contract amount to $1,103,980. MBI completed the PS&E for the project, and the current Agreement requires an amendment to include additional bid support, construction support, and Council support activities.
The proposed Amendment No. 5 would increase the PSA amount by $183,424, for a total of $1,287,404, and extend the term to December 31, 2028, allowing MBI to remain engaged through the construction phase. The amendment scope includes:
• Review of contractor submittals and requests for information (RFIs) • Attendance at construction meetings
• Coordination with City Staff, the construction management consultant, and Caltrans • Assistance with design clarifications during construction Pursuant to Solana Beach Municipal Code Section 3.08.130.D, the requirement for competitive selection may be waived when it is in the public's interest. Retaining the existing design team is the most efficient and cost-effective approach. MBI has in-depth knowledge of the design history and is familiar with Caltrans oversight procedures and federal grant requirements. Continuing with the same team avoids duplicative effort, reduces the risk of miscommunication, and allows design-related construction support to commence without delay.
Kleinfelder Construction Services - Professional Services Agreement Staff issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in June 2024, to solicit proposals from consultants experienced in construction management, pavement inspection, and laboratory testing. Staff does not have the in-house capability to conduct laboratory testing, making access to a certified testing laboratory a key selection criterion. Three proposals were received, as listed in Table 2 below.
Table 2: RFP Results
Proposers
Kleinfelder Construction Services
Murow Development Consultants
UNICO
Item L.3
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Award
After a detailed review of all three proposals, Staff recommends pursuing a contract with Kleinfelder Construction Services. While the other firms have relevant pavement inspection and laboratory testing backgrounds and are well regarded in the region, the proposal and experience provided by Kleinfelder were superior.
Kleinfelder will independently conduct pavement inspections and laboratory testing on behalf of the City to verify that all inspection and testing requirements for the asphalt concrete are met, and will perform construction management and inspection services in accordance with the Caltrans Local Assistance Procedures Manual to ensure compliance with grant requirements. Kleinfelder will also provide public outreach services through a dedicated helpline and email address, community engagement meetings, and property owner notifications throughout construction. Staff negotiated a fee consistent with industry practice (10–15% of construction value) for projects of comparable scope and complexity, ensuring adequate quality control, schedule management, and regulatory compliance.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
The Project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15301(c) of the State CEQA Guidelines, as filed under Document Number 37- 2024-0270 with the State of California. Because construction of this project is partially funded with federal funds, environmental clearance is also required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The FHWA has delegated this authority to Caltrans. A Categorical Exclusion was originally approved by Caltrans in April 2024, and re-validated in May 2025.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This item authorizes the City Manager to execute: (1) a construction contract with Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. in the amount of $6,740,708; (2) Amendment No. 5 to the PSA with Michael Baker International for design-related construction support, in the amount of $183,424; and (3) a PSA with Kleinfelder Construction Services for construction management and inspection, in the amount of $979,812. The anticipated project costs are listed below in Table 3.
Table 3: Anticipated Project Costs
Item Amount
Construction Contract – Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. $6,740,708 Construction Contingency (10%) $675,000
Michael Baker International – PSA Amendment 5 $183,424
Kleinfelder Construction Services - PSA $979,812
Total $8,578,944
Item L.3
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Award
The construction contract with Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. in the amount of $6,740,708 will be funded by the Per Capita Grant Fund – Account 2466510-66610 ($7,000,000) and Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 ($415,708). There is sufficient budget available to fund the construction contract and an approximately 10% contingency of $675,000.
The current PSA with MBI is for a total not-to-exceed amount of $1,103,980. Amendment No. 5 would increase compensation by $183,424, bringing the not-to-exceed total to $1,287,404, and extend the term to December 31, 2028. There is sufficient budget in the Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 available to fund this amendment.
This item also authorizes the City Manager to execute a PSA with Kleinfelder Construction Services for construction management and inspection services in the amount of $979,812.
There is sufficient budget in the Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 ($570,868) and FY24 Measure S Surplus Funds that were transferred into Misc. CIP Fund – Account 4596510-66610 ($408,944) available to fund this PSA.
Project funding will utilize $7,000,000 from the federal Community Project Funded/Congressionally Directed Spending (CPFCDS) Grant and $1,578,944 from local funding sources. The funding sources are listed in Table 4 below. Final project costs will be reported to the City Council upon completion of construction as part of filing the Notice of Completion.
Table 4: Project Funding Sources
Item Amount
Misc. Grant Fund – Account 2466510-66610 $7,000,000
Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 $1,170,000 Measure S/Misc. CIP – Account 4596510-66610 $408,944
Total $8,578,944
WORK PLAN:
The Lomas Santa Fe Corridor Project is included as Item II.1 under Transportation and Mobility Priorities in the Fiscal Year 2025/26 Council Work Plan.
OPTIONS:
• Approve staff recommendations.
• Provide alternative directions.
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
Item L.3
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Award
1. Adopt Resolution 2026-057:
a. Awarding a construction contract to Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. in the amount of $6,740,708.00, for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03, CPFCDSL 5445(008). b. Approving an amount of $675,000.00 for construction contingency. c. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the construction contract on behalf of the City.
d. Authorizing the City Manager to approve cumulative change orders up to the construction contingency amount.
e. Authorizing the City Treasurer to amend the FY 2025/26 Adopted Budget accordingly.
2. Staff also recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution 2026-058:
a. Authorizing the City Manager to amend a Professional Services Agreement for an additional two-year term, in an amount not to exceed $183,424.00, with Michael Baker International for additional bid, construction, and council Support for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03, CPFCDSL 5445(008).
b. Authorizing the City Treasurer to amend the FY 2025/26 Adopted Budget accordingly.
3. Staff also recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution 2026-059:
a. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement for a two-year term, in an amount not to exceed $979,812.00, with Kleinfelder Construction Services for Construction Management and Inspection for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03, CPFCDSL 5445(008).
b. Authorizing the City Treasurer to amend the FY 2025/26 Adopted Budget accordingly.
_________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Item L.3
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Award
Attachments:
1. Resolution 2026-057 Awarding a Construction Contract to Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc.
2. Resolution 2026-058 Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Michael Baker International
3. Resolution 2026-059 Executing a Professional Services Agreement with Kleinfelder Construction Services for Construction Management and Inspection
4. Project Map
Item L.3
ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION 2026-057
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOLANA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AWARDING A
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO TRI-GROUP
CONSTRUCTION AND DEVLOPMENT, INC. FOR THE
LOMAS SANTA FE CORRIDOR EAST IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT (CPFCDSL 5445(008)), BID NO. 2026-03
WHEREAS, the City has advanced the Lomas Santa Fe–East Improvement Project with design, funding, and agency coordination over several years to prepare the Loma Santa Fe-East Improvement Project for construction, maintaining two lanes of travel in both directions, and including new sidewalks, a multi-use trail, bicycle lanes, landscaped medians, and pedestrian enhancements, including benches, decorative paving of the sidewalks and trash receptacles; and
WHEREAS, on April 14, 2026, six bids for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03, were received and publicly opened by the City Clerk, and at that time, it was determined that Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. was the apparent low bidder with a construction estimate of $6,740,708.00; and WHEREAS, Staff has performed the necessary performance checks in accordance with California Public Contract Code and deemed the apparent low bidder meets all requirements; and
WHEREAS, Staff recommends a construction contingency of approximately 10%, in the amount of $675,000.00, for unanticipated extra work and additional repairs.
WHEREAS, The construction contract with Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc. in the amount of $6,740,708 will be funded by the Misc. Grant Fund – Account 2466510-66610 ($7,000,000) and Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 ($415,708); and
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolve as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the City Council awards the construction contract to Tri-Group Construction and Development, Inc., in the amount of $6,740,708.00, for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project, Bid No. 2026-03.
3. That the City Council approves an amount of $675,000.00 for construction contingency.
Item L.3
Resolution 2026-057
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project Construction Contract
4. the City Manager to execute the construction contract on behalf of the City.
5. That the City Council authorizes the City Manager to approve cumulative change orders up to the amount of the construction contingency.
6. That the City Council authorizes the City Treasurer to amend the FY 2025/26 Adopted Budget accordingly.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 27th day of May, 2026, at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers –
NOES: Councilmembers –
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers –
ABSENT: Councilmembers –
______________________________
LESA HEEBNER, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
_____________________________ _______________________________ JOHANNA N. CANLAS, City Attorney ANGELA IVEY, City Clerk Item L.3
ATTACHMENT 2
RESOLUTION 2026-058
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOLANA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN
AMENDMENT TO THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH MICHAEL BAKER INTERNATIONAL
FOR ADDITIONAL BID, CONSTRUCTION, AND COUNCIL
SUPPORT FOR LOMAS SANTA FE CORRIDOR EAST
IMPROVEMENTS
WHEREAS, the City has advanced the Lomas Santa Fe–East Improvement Project with design, funding, and agency coordination over several years to prepare the Loma Santa Fe-East Improvement Project for construction, maintaining two lanes of travel in both directions, and including new sidewalks, a multi-use trail, bicycle lanes, landscaped medians, and pedestrian enhancements, including benches, decorative paving of the sidewalks and trash receptacles; and
WHEREAS, on February 13, 2019, the City entered into a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with Michael Baker International, Inc. (MBI) for final design services for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor Phase III Project, with the original contract (Resolution 2019-011) in the amount not to exceed $684,500 for a term of two years; and WHEREAS, four amendments have been executed that extended the term of the agreement and increased the compensation to provide for changes to the scope of work and split the plans and specifications into separate packages for East and West side construction due to construction funding limitations; and WHEREAS, Amendment 4 increased the PSA amount by $230,000, for a total of $1,103,980, and extended the term to December 31, 2027; and WHEREAS, with the City moving forward with the construction award contract, Staff recommends executing a fifth amendment to retain MBI for bid, construction, and council-related support services including, but not limited to, meetings, council support, plan set revisions, construction support services, and utility coordination; and WHEREAS, the proposed Amendment No. 5 would increase the PSA amount by $183,424, for a total amount of $1,287,404, and extend the term to December 31, 2028, allowing MBI to remain engaged through the construction phase of the project; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Solana Beach Municipal Code Section 3.08.130.D, the requirement for competitive selection may be waived when it is in the public’s interest. In this case, retaining the existing design team is the most efficient and cost-effective approach; and
WHEREAS, MBI has been involved with the project since 2016, has in-depth knowledge of the design history, and is familiar with Caltrans oversight procedures and Item L.3
Resolution 2026-058
PSA Amendment 5 for Michael Baker International
federal grant requirements, and continuing with the same team avoids duplicative efforts, reduces the risk of miscommunication, and allows design-related construction support to begin without delay.
WHEREAS, there is sufficient budget in the Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 available to fund this amendment; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolve as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the City Council authorizes the City Manager to execute an amendment to the Professional Services Agreement, for an increase of $183,424, with Michael Baker International for additional bid, construction, and council support services for the Lomas Santa Fe-East Improvement Project, which would extend from Santa Helena to Highland Drive. The amendment would also extend the term of the agreement so that the new end date is December 31, 2027.
3. That the City Council authorizes the City Treasurer to amend the FY 2025/26 Adopted Budget accordingly.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 27th day of May, 2026, at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers –
NOES: Councilmembers –
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers –
ABSENT: Councilmembers –
______________________________
LESA HEEBNER, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
_____________________________ _______________________________ JOHANNA N. CANLAS, City Attorney ANGELA IVEY, City Clerk Item L.3
ATTACHMENT 3
RESOLUTION 2026-059
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SOLANA BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH KLEINFELDER CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND
INSPECTION FOR THE FOR THE LOMAS SANTA FE
CORRIDOR EAST IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT (CPFCDSL
5445(008)), BID NO. 2026-03
WHEREAS, the City has advanced the Lomas Santa Fe–East Improvement Project with design, funding, and agency coordination over several years to prepare the Loma Santa Fe-East Improvement Project for construction, maintaining two lanes of travel in both directions, and including new sidewalks, a multi-use trail, bicycle lanes, landscaped medians, and pedestrian enhancements, including benches, decorative paving of the sidewalks and trash receptacles; and
WHEREAS, construction management and inspection services are required to ensure the Project is constructed in accordance with the approved plans, specifications, applicable standards, and regulatory requirements, and to provide oversight of schedule, budget, and quality control; and
WHEREAS, Staff issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit qualified firms with experience in construction management and inspection services for similar roadway and infrastructure projects; and
WHEREAS, after a comprehensive evaluation of proposals received in response to the RFP, Staff determined that Kleinfelder Construction Services is the most qualified firm based on demonstrated experience, project understanding, qualifications of key personnel, and overall responsiveness; and
WHEREAS, Kleinfelder Construction Services has demonstrated expertise in managing federally funded transportation projects, including compliance with applicable funding requirements and reporting procedures; and
WHEREAS, there is sufficient budget in the Transportation Impact Fee – Account 4546510-66610 ($570,868) and FY24 Measure S Surplus transferred to Misc. CIP Fund – Account 4596510-66610 ($408,944) available; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California, does resolve as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
Item L.3
Resolution 2026-059
PSA for Construction Management and Inspection (Kleinfelder)
2. That the City Council authorizes the City Manager to execute a professional services agreement for a two-year term, in an amount not to exceed $979,812.00, with Kleinfelder Construction Services for Construction Management and Inspection for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements Project (CPFCDS5445(0008)), Bid No. 2026-03.
3. That the City Council authorizes the City Treasurer to amend the FY 2025/26 Adopted Budget accordingly.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 27th day of May, 2026, at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Solana Beach, California by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers –
NOES: Councilmembers –
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers –
ABSENT: Councilmembers –
______________________________
LESA HEEBNER, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: ATTEST:
_____________________________ _______________________________ JOHANNA N. CANLAS, City Attorney ANGELA IVEY, City Clerk Item L.3
Item L.3
Item L.3
Lomas S anta Fe Corridor E as t
I mprovements (L.3)
City Council Meeting May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 1
Regular City Council Meeting
Item L.3
Lomas S anta Fe-East
P roject Limits
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 2
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
Lomas S anta Fe Corridor His tory
2015–2016
Comprehensive
Active
Transportation
Strategy (CATS)
Planning & Data
Collection
2017–2018
Corridor Walk
& Workshops
Council:
Maintain Four
Travel Lanes
& Remove
Roundabouts
2019–2021
Council Approved
PSA w/MBI for
Final Design
Community Open
House
Council Design
Updates
2023–2024
Two Phases East & West
East: $7M Federal Grant
Council Approval for Bid
Package & Caltrans
Coordination
Environmental Clearance
2025
(August)
Caltrans
Construction
Approval
2026
West: $3.5M
SANDAG grant
East: Award
Construction
Contract
(today)
2027
East:
Complete
Construction
West:
Finalize
Design
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 3
Item L.3
Multi-Use Trail
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 4
Item L.3
Lands caped S eating Areas
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 5
Item L.3
Tree & P lants Palette
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 6
Item L.3
• Cons truction Fall 2 0 2 6 to Late S ummer 2 0 2 7
• Community Cons iderations
• Maintain one travel lane in each direction
• Working Hours, S pecial E vents, and Holidays
• Monitor to see if adjustments are needed
• Community Outreach
• P roject Webs ite and City News letter
• Dedicated P roject Hotline and Email
• HOA, S chool Dis tricts, Local B us ines s.
Community & Communication
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 7
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
C ons truction C ontract Award
Award S ummar y
• E ngineer’s E stimate: $6,957,398
• Recommended Award: $6,740,708
Tri-Group Cons truction &
Development, Inc.
• Contingency (1 0 % ): $675,000
• Total Contract Value: $7,415,708
• B ids Received: 6 (5 res pons ive)
B id Results (all bidders)
• Tri-G roup C ons truction & Development,
Inc.: $ 6,740,708
• E agle Paving: $ 6 ,9 2 5 ,6 7 0
• Palm E ngineering Cons truction Company,
Inc: $6,983,248
• Dick Miller, Inc.: $ 7 ,9 8 2 ,0 6 3
(Non-Res pons ive)
• LB Civil Cons truction, Inc.: $ 8 ,2 0 9 ,3 4 9
• Griffith Company: $9,633,778
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 8
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
• 2019 P rofes s ional S ervices Agreement
• Lomas S anta Fe–Wes t: 90% Des ign
• Lomas S anta Fe–E ast: Final Design, Caltrans Coordination, B id Documents. • Amendment N o. 5: $ 183,424
• Contractor S ubmittals and Requests for Information, Construction Meetings, Caltrans Coordination, Design Clarifications During Construction • Increases total contract amount to $1,287,404 and extend agreement through December 31, 2028
Michael B aker International
P rofes s ional S ervices Agreement
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 9
Item L.3
• Cons truction Management S er vices R eques t for P ropos als • Three P ropos als : K leinfelder, Murow Development Cons ultants, and UNICO • K leinfelder s elected bas ed on propos al quality and relevant project experience. • S cope and P rofes s ional S ervices Agreement
• Full T ime Field Ins pections, Pavement Tes ting, Laborator y S er vices, Material Tes ting, Community Outreach, P revailing Wage Compliance. • P rofes s ional S er vices Agreement: $ 9 7 9 ,8 1 2 for two-year term Cons truction Management S er vices
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 10
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
• Total Cons truction Cos ts : $ 8,578,944
• Construction Contract: Tri-Group Cons truction and Development, Inc.: $6,740,708 • Cons truction Contingency (1 0 % ): $675,000
• Michael B aker International P S A Amendment 5: $183,424 • K leinfelder Cons truction S er vices P S A: $979,812 • Funding S ources
• Community P roject Funded/ Congressionally Directed S pending Grant: $7,000,000 • Trans por tation Impact Fee: $1,170,000
• Measure S : $408,944
Fiscal Impact
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 11
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
• Adopt Resolution 2026-0 5 7 awarding the cons truction contract to Tri-Group Cons truction and Development, Inc. ($ 6 ,7 4 0 ,7 0 8 ) and cons truction contingency ($675,000)
• Adopt Resolution 2026-0 5 8 approving Amendment No. 5 with Michael B aker International ($183,424).
• Adopt Resolution 2026-0 5 9 approving a P rofes s ional S er vices Agreement with K leinfelder Cons truction S er vices for cons truction management and ins pection s er vices ($979,812).
• Authorizing the City Treas urer to amend the FY 2 0 2 5 / 2 6 Adopted B udget accordingly.
R ecommendations
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 12
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
Ques tions & Comments
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.3.
S lide 13
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
B ackup S lides
Item L.3
• Paving done week of October 2 0th
• Traffic S ignal Modernization
• Res triping w/ buffered bike lanes
• S triping November/ Decem ber
Lomas S anta Fe-Wes t
October 22, 2025
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 15
P roject Update to City Manager
Item L.3
R es t S tops Des ign
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 16
P roject Update to City Manager
October 22, 2025
Item L.3
• Corridor walk with public and des ign team – March 4, 2017 • Com munity Works hop – May 15, 2017
• City Council m eeting (des ign alternatives ) – S eptember 27, 2017 • Com munity Works hop/ Open Hous e – May 24, 2018
• City Council meeting (roundabout presentation) – Augus t 22, 2018 • City Council m eeting (approve P S A with MB I) – Februar y 1 3 , 2 0 1 9 • Com munity Works hop/ Open Hous e – May 29, 2019
• City Council meeting (project update) – January 22, 2020 • City Council meeting (project update) – S eptember 9, 2020 • City Council meeting (project update) – May 26, 2021
• City Council meeting (project update) – October 27, 2021 Community Outreach/ City Council Item L.3
R etaining Walls E xis ting
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 18
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
S plit Face B lock
Tan
S mooth B lock
Gray
S plit Face B lock
Gray
Item L.3
R etaining Wall Options
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 19
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
E xample: Arch Wall With Vegetation
Item L.3
B lock R etaining Wall Options
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 20
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
S plit Face S mooth Block
Item L.3
R etaining Wall Color
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 21
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
Tan Gray
Item L.3
Tras h R eceptacles & Lighting
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 22
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
Item L.3
Coas tal R ail Trail Des ign Cons is tency
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 23
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
Item L.3
Decorative S eating Areas
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 24
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
Paving
Boulder seating
Seeded DG with integral color
Concrete paving with integral color
Flag Stone
Concrete Accent
Item L.3
S eating Area Options
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 25
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
Hwy 101 Coas tal R ail Trail
B oulder
Item L.3
Wave Wall P rofile
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
May 27, 2026 S lide 26
Item L.3
Approved Large R etaining Wall
Des ign Direction
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
6/16/2026 S lide 27
Item L.3
Wave Wall Options : For C ouncil Input
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
6/16/2026 S lide 28
Item L.3
Tree Palette
51-Arbutus X “Marina”
(Arbutus Standard)
32-Bauhinia X Blakeana
(Hong Kong Orchid)
65-Jacaranda Mimosifolia
(Jacaranda Multi-Trunk)
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 29
Regular City Council Meeting
October 22, 2025
Item L.3
Feature Options
Seating Area Trash Receptacles Yes or No
Seating Area Lighting Yes or No
Seating Area Paving Flag Stone or Concrete Accent
Seating Area Options Boulders, Metal Bench or Concrete Bench Metal: Silver or Bronze
Long Retaining Wall Arch or Decorative
Shorter Retaining Block Wall Design Split Face or Smooth Block Wall Colors Tan or Grey
Tree Palette Approve or Provide Recommendations
Des ign E lement Options
October 22, 2025
Item L.3
October 22, 2025
• Adopt Resolution 2025-1 1 5 authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 4 to the P rofes s ional S er vices Agreement with Michael B aker International.
R ecommendation
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 31
Regular City Council Meeting
Item L.3
• Tri-Group’s bid includes decorative Lithocrete paving enhancem ents throughout the corridor. • T.B Penick & S ons will perfor m the Lithocrete work as a s ubcontractor ($ 6 3 0 ,8 8 0 ). • Lithocrete provides enhanced aes thetics and cons is tency with other City s treets cape im provem ent.
• T.B Penick has com pleted m ultiple Lithocrete projects within the City, including Fletcher Cove Park, Cliff S treet B ridge, Ros a S treet B ridge, and Highway 1 0 1 im provem ents. • T.B Penick has als o perfor m ed routine m aintenance and repairs to the lithocrete concrete, which includes the B oardwalk, the S un P laza, and concrete panel replacem ents. • Decorative paving treatm ents are included within Tri-Group’s base bid proposal.
Tri-Group B id – Lithocrete Improvements
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.2
S lide 32
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
Approved Lighting: S olar B ollards
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
May 27, 2026 S lide 33
Item L.3
Tras h R eceptacles & Lighting
Lomas Santa Fe - East Improvement
Project Update – Item C.2.
S lide 34
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
Lomas S anta Fe Corridor
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements –
Item L.2.
S lide 35
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
I-5
LSF – East
(Current)
S anta Helena
to Highland
LSF – Wes t
(In Des ign)
Hwy 101 to
S . Nardo
Item L.3
AERIAL MAP
HIGHLAND DR
Item L.3
1. Award cons truction contract to Tri-Group Cons truction & Development, Inc.
2. Amend P S A with Michael B aker International for cons truction s uppor t s er vices, Caltrans coordination, and des ign clarification as s is tance during construction.
3. E xecute P S A with K leinfelder Cons truction S er vices for cons truction management and ins pection s uppor t.
4. Construction anticipated S eptember 2026.
5. S ubstantial completion of construction – late 2027.
Next S teps
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements –
Item L.2.
S lide 37
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
Lomas S anta Fe – E as t P roject
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.2.
S lide 38
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
• Pedes trian and bicycle connectivity, s afety, and aes thetic enhancements
• New s idewalks , bike lanes , lighting, traffic s ignal m odifications , lands caping, lands caping medians , benches , tras h bins , decorative paving, s tor m drain improvements , and road res urfacing • The City received $ 7 M through CP FCDS L-5445(008) from Mike Levin to facilitate the cons truction of this project.
• P roject is s ubject to Caltrans overs ight.
• The City received authorization to proceed from Caltrans in Augus t 2025.
Item L.3
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
May 27, 2026 S lide 39
Approved P lant P alette:
CA natives & non-native clim ate appropriate plants
JACARANDA: MEDIANS ONLY
Item L.3
Approved Des ign E lements
• Retaining wall des ign
• S eating areas
• P lant palette
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East
Improvements – Item L.2
S lide 40
Regular City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026
Item L.3
P lants & Tree Palette
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements –
Item L.3.
S lide 41
Item L.3
Lands caped S eating Areas
Lomas Santa Fe East Update to City Manager
May 27, 2026
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor East Improvements –
Item L.3.
S lide 42
Item L.3
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # L.4.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: City Manager’s Department – Nicole Grucky, Sustainability Program Manager and Diana Jamaleddine, Sustainability
Management Assistant
SUBJECT: Climate Action Plan Implementation Status Review and Update
BACKGROUND:
The City of Solana Beach originally adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP) in 2017, setting ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from City activities by 50% below 2010 levels by 2035. In 2020, City Council updated the Climate Adaptation Chapter (Chapter 4) to incorporate the latest adaptation research and recommendations and to introduce environmental justice considerations. Most recently in 2024, City Council adopted a CAP Update, updating the City’s GHG emission reduction targets to align with State legislation and updating the measures and actions to account for changes in technology and research since 2017.
GHG emission reduction efforts are proposed as part of the CAP Update in the form of a hierarchical framework that includes pathways, strategies, measures, and actions.
Pathways at the top of the hierarchical framework are the overarching “sectors” where GHG emissions reductions can be achieved. Each pathway consists of one or two strategies that articulate the high-level goals related to that pathway, which are then organized further by measures and actions (i.e., implementation mechanisms to achieve measures).
The five decarbonization pathways are as follows:
Decarbonize Transportation
Decarbonize Buildings
Decarbonize Electric Supply
Enhance Land Use & Natural Solutions
Utilize Circular Economy & Food Systems
The CAP Update also updated the baseline GHG emission inventory, using 2016 data, as that was best data available at the time of the CAP Update process. The 2016 inventory shows that the City emits 106,100 MTCO2e/year. The CAP Update set targets of reducing emissions 50% below 2016 levels by 2035 and 85% below 2016 levels by 2045 to align Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
with the State’s legislative emission targets (directed in SB32 and AB1279). The emission forecasts completed for the CAP Update showed that the City was on track to meet the 2035 goal, primarily due to State and federal policies in place in 2023.
The City is leading a regional effort to complete inventories for 2022 and 2024 calendar years (subject to change based on best available data) and has secured a grant through the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) to fund the work. The City currently has a Request for Proposals out to complete this work and anticipate having the two inventories completed within the next two years.
DISCUSSION:
Since the CAP Update was adopted in October 2024, staff has been working on implementation of the CAP. Below is a breakdown of the City’s accomplishments and progress, to date.
Decarbonize Transportation
The Decarbonize Transportation pathway addresses the most significant contributor to GHG emissions in the City. This pathway focuses on reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) while shifting fuels powering on-road vehicles from fossil fuels to low- or zero-emission fuels.
The City continues to have a remote/hybrid work policy, and encourages employees to walk, bike, carpool, or take public transportation to work with a monthly incentive.
Last June, the City installed a BEAM solar and battery electric vehicle (EV) charger at La Colonia Community Park to provide free, sustainable EV charging for the community. Staff is currently assessing infrastructure to install additional EV charging infrastructure, with solar and battery, at a city-owned parking lot.
The City hosts Bike Education Classes for the community in collaboration with the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition. This includes two City Cycling Classes, one workshop (such as E-Bike 101, driver safety), and a Bike Rodeo at the Summer Day Camp annually.
These classes teach road rules, where to ride, general bike safety, emergency maneuvers, legal rights, and responsibilities on the road, practicing everything through skills drills.
Most recently, on April 8, 2026, City Council approved the Senior Transportation Pilot Program, aimed to reduce VMT from single-rider trips. The program is expected to launch this summer. Feedback and data collected from this initial pilot will inform the City moving forward. Staff is seeking future funding from SANDAG’s Flexible Fleet Grant program to further support or enhance this program.
The Weekly Update newsletter and the City’s sustainability website page continue to include information about electric vehicle incentives, local charging stations, bike events and opportunities, and more.
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
STRATEGY: VMT Reduction
Measure T-1 Adopt a hybrid work schedule/virtual meeting policy Status T-1.1 Telecommute Incentives N/A
T-1.2 Remote/Hybrid Work Completed
T-1.3 Virtual Meetings Staff regularly
attends and hosts
virtual meetings,
when feasible
Measure T-2 Use alternative modes for non-work trips
T-2.1 Environmentally Friendly Transportation Options Ongoing.
T-2.2 Bike and Walk Opportunities Ongoing.
T-2.3 15-Minute City Analysis N/A
T-2.4 Active Transportation Education Ongoing.
Measure T-3 Provide intra-city electric shuttle to shopping, dining, recreation destinations and schools in the city
T-3.1 Intra-City Electric Shuttle Senior
Transportation Pilot
Program to be
launched Summer
2026. Will not
feature electric
vehicles at this time.
STRATEGY: Low-carbon Emissions Vehicles
Measure T-4 Electrify School Buses Status
T-4.1 Walk and Bike to School Ongoing.
T-4.2 Safe Routes to Schools Ongoing, Glencrest
Sidewalk
Improvement
Project is the next
identified project.
Measure T-5 Increase electric vehicles and electric vehicle charging infrastructure T-5.1 ZEV Rebate Information Ongoing.
T-5.2 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Analysis N/A
T-5.3 Funding for Public Electric Vehicle Chargers Ongoing. Council has approved
$200,000. Staff is
evaluating
feasibility.
T-5.4 Identify Electric Infrastructure Needs Request for Bids published in
December 2025, no
bids within budget
received. Staff is
continuing to
assess feasibility.
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
T-5.5 Electric Vehicles Ongoing.
T-5.6 Fleet Electrification Roadmap Analysis
completed.
Decarbonize Buildings
Building energy is another significant contributor to GHG emissions within the City, accounting for 32 percent of total emissions in 2016. This pathway primarily aims to reduce the total emissions related to building energy in the future by increasing the efficiency of existing buildings and swapping out energy-intensive fossil-fuel appliances for energyefficient electric ones.
Since the CAP Update was adopted in 2024, the City adopted electrification Ordinance 540 for new construction related to EV charging and solar requirements.
The City’s Public Works department replaces end-of-life HVAC systems with new HVACs that include heat pump technology at City facilities.
In January 2026, the City launched a Heat Pump Water Heater Rebate program to incentivize residents and contractors to swap out end-of-life traditional gas water heaters for electric heat pump water heaters. This program provides up to $1,500 for residents who install a heat pump water heater at their house, and $500 for the contactor who installs it.
Staff continues to research methods for energy and water benchmarking of existing buildings and performance standards regulations.
The City distributes information about the Clean Energy Alliance (CEA), Time of Use rates, and energy pricing in the Weekly Update newsletter and sustainability webpage.
STRATEGY: Increase Energy Efficiency
Measure B-1 Implement energy efficiency measures Status B-1.1 Energy and Water Benchmarking Research phase;
staff currently
developing a
recommendation to
bring to Council.
B-1.2 Energy Efficiency Incentives Ongoing.
B-1.3 Dynamic Energy Pricing Ongoing.
B-1.4 Weatherization N/A
STRATEGY: Electrify Appliances & Equipment
Measure B-2 Build all-electric new construction
B-2.1 Electrification Ordinances 528 & 529 Completed -
adopted
11/05/2025
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
B-2.2 New Electrification Ordinance AB 130 restricts
adoption of reach
codes until 2035.
Measure B-3 Incentivize replacement of gas appliances at end of life with electric appliance
B-3.1 Financing and Programs Ongoing. Heat
Pump Water Heater
Rebate Program
Launched January
2026.
B-3.2 Building Electrification Ongoing. Heat
Pump Water Heater
Rebate Program
Launched January
2026.
Decarbonize Electric Supply
The Decarbonize Electric Supply Pathway involves replacing electric service options with lower- or zero-carbon options to ensure that the source of electricity produces minimal GHG emissions.
The City of Solana Beach created and has been a part of a Community Choice Aggregate (CCA) since 2018, now known as the Clean Energy Alliance (CEA). Currently, all Solana Beach residents and businesses are automatically placed into CEA’s 50% renewable energy and 75% carbon-free energy product. Customers continue to have the option to opt-up to 100% renewable energy or opt-out and return to SDG&E.
CEA has launched electrification programs this past year including the Solar Plus and Battery Bonus programs, making it easier for CEA customers to install Solar and Battery systems at their home.
The City provides information about CEA and highlights these programs in the Weekly Update and on the website to encourage residents to sign up, Opt-up, and learn more.
STRATEGY: Increase Renewable Energy Sources
Measure E-1 Increase to 100% renewable electricity citywide Status E-1.1 100% Renewable Supply (community) CEA presented to Council 12/10/2025
E-1.2 100% Renewable Supply (municipal operations) Completed.
STRATEGY: Increase PV Capacity and Decentralize Energy Storage Capacity Measure E-2 Increase installation of photovoltaic and battery storage E-2.1 Community Solar N/A – proposed in
FY27 Work Plan
E-2.2 Rooftop Solar Ongoing
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
E-2.3 Energy Storage Ongoing
E-2.4 Microgrids CAP timeline 2028
E-2.5 Renewable and Storage on Municipal Facilities Ongoing.
Enhance Land Use & Natural Solutions
The Enhance Land Use & Natural Solutions Pathway focuses on removing GHG emissions from the atmosphere through expanding trees and vegetation throughout the City, instead of reducing GHG emissions from existing sectors. The sole strategy of this pathway is to restore and enhance natural and working lands.
Last summer, City staff worked with West Coast Arborists Inc. to complete a tree canopy coverage assessment and published a public-facing tree inventory to highlight the impact and benefit of trees in Solana Beach. This inventory includes a map of municipal trees, displays the change in tree canopy cover over time, and summarizes the environmental benefits including carbon sequestration, pollution removal, avoided runoff, and monetary benefit per year.
The City has been a part of the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge since 2021 to show the City’s commitment to creating and restoring habitat for Western monarchs and other crucial pollinators while educating residents about the importance of pollinators and how to make a difference in their homes and community. Staff has continued to work with the SeaWeeders gardening club, whose mission is to promote the sustainable beautification of Solana Beach, to plant pollinator gardens at La Colonia Community Center, along the Coastal Rail Trail, within Skyline Elementary School’s Mindful Garden, and on the east side of the Fire Station.
This past fall, the Pollinator Friendly City Subcommittee of the Climate & Resiliency Commission (CRC) joined forces with the SeaWeeders, Water's Path Landscape Design/Hidden Agave, and the City's Public Works department to plant a pollinator garden in front of City Hall.
STRATEGY: Restore and Enhance Natural and Working Lands Measure CS-1 Increase urban canopy cover Status
CS-1.1 Tree Inventory Completed – can be
found here:
https://solanabeachurbanforest.wca.app/
CS-1.2 Tree Incentives N/A
CS-1.3 Urban Forestry Plan N/A – proposed in
FY27 Work Plan
CS-1.4 Trees in Public Spaces Ongoing
Measure CS-2 Use native or drought tolerant species at landscape areas CS-2.1 Energy and Water Benchmarking N/A
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
Utilize Circular Economy & Food Systems
A circular economy refers to a sustainable model of resource production and consumption.
In the CAP Update, the Utilize Circular Economy & Food System pathway is related to reducing solid waste through landfill diversion, organic materials source reduction, reuse, upcycling, and recycling, and reducing food waste. Since published, staff has worked with our local waste hauler, EDCO, to divert waste away from the landfill and encourage residents to recycle plastics and organics.
The City manages several grants whose funding aims to minimize solid waste and encourage proper waste sorting among residents and businesses. With this support, staff has purchased two new water refill stations to replace existing plastic water jug stations at City Hall and La Colonia, provided new waste sorting receptacles for the Fire Station, mailed an informational magnet on proper household hazardous waste disposal to residents, purchased organics pizza recycling containers for Fletcher Cove, added signage to pick up litter at the beach, and worked with Fiesta del Sol vendors to switch to all compostable utensils.
The City is currently compliant with Senate Bill (SB) 1383. SB 1383 requires the City to regulate large food service establishments to ensure that the maximum amount of edible food is recovered for donations, and that all inedible food waste is recycled in the green/compost bin. In 2025, the City transitioned all inspection and enforcement in-house.
Staff conducts annual inspections of two Tier 1 and six Tier 2 businesses and oversees two Solana Beach food recovery organizations (FROs). All regulated businesses and FROs are currently in compliance and collectively donated approximately 140 tons of recovered food in 2024.
In addition to ensuring regulated businesses are complaint with SB 1383, the City is also required to procure more than 1,000 tons of compost annually. The City met this target in 2025 and is on track to meet this target in 2026. The City has achieved its targets via EDCO’s renewable natural gas-powered trucks produced from organic waste going through their anaerobic digestion facility; EDCO’s community distribution of free compost and mulch; City using compliant mulch on all City projects; and purchasing credits through Zero Foodprint with CalRecycle grant funds. In February, the City also launched a free, self-service compost hub at the Public Works Yard for residents.
The City complies with SB 1383 paper purchasing requirements by working with our janitorial staff and procuring materials made with post-consumer recycled content whenever feasible.
The City held its first clothing swap in January 2026, where community members diverted approximately 342 lbs. of clothing away from the landfill. Due to positive feedback from the community, staff is planning to host another clothing swap in the next year.
Strategy: Waste Reduction
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
Measure W-1 Divert solid waste from the landfill Status W-1.1 Waste Diversion Education Program Ongoing
W-1.2 Food Waste Awareness Ongoing - staff is
currently
coordinating with a
local Girl Scout
group to create a
food waste and
organics composting
campaign.
W-1.3 SB1383 Enforcement Ongoing
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
This informational update is not a project under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no immediate fiscal impact to the City as a result of this report. Any actions recommended to implement from the CAP will be brought before Council for direction or to be included in the Council Work Plan. The fiscal impacts will be considered at these times.
WORK PLAN:
This item is consistent with Action C. under Item III. 1 (Climate Action Plan Update) of the Environmental Sustainability and Energy Section in the FY 2025/26 Work Plan.
OPTIONS:
• Receive the report and provide feedback to staff.
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Accept the informational update and provide feedback to staff. _________________________
Item L.4
May 27, 2026
Climate Action Plan Implementation Update
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Item L.4
C LIMAT E AC T ION P LAN
P R OGR E S S U P DAT E
City Council Meeting – May 27, 2026
Item L.4
B ackground
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 2
• Firs t Climate Action P lan (CAP ) adopted in
2017
• CAP Update adopted in 2024
• Update aligned with S tate legis lation and to account for changes in technology
Item L.4
B ackground
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 4
• C AP U pdate includes five decarbonization
pathways :
• Decarbonize Transportation
• Decarbonize B uildings
• Decarbonize Electric S upply
• Enhance Land Use & Natural S olutions
• Utilize Circular E conomy & Food S ys tem s
Item L.4
ClearGov – C over P age
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 5
Item L.4
ClearGov – P rogress S ummary
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 6
Item L.4
ClearGov – All C AP P athways
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 8
Item L.4
Decarbonize Trans por tation P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 9
Item L.4
Decarbonize Trans por tation P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 10
Item L.4
Decarbonize Trans por tation P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 11
Item L.4
Decarbonize Trans por tation P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 12
Item L.4
Decarbonize Trans por tation P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 14
• B E AM s olar and batter y charger at La
Colonia Community P ark
• B ike E ducation Clas s es with the S an
Diego B ike Coalition
• Older Adult Trans por tation pilot
program
• Expected to launch in June
• Continuation through S ANDAG’s Flexible Fleet
Grant
Item L.4
Decarbonize B uildings P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 15
Item L.4
Decarbonize B uildings P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 16
• Adoption of Ordinance 540 (extens ion of
Ordinances 528 and 529), requiring new
cons truction to include E V charging and
s olar beyond the S tate requirements
• R eplacement of end-of-life HVAC s ys tems
with heat pump s ys tems at City facilities
• Heat P ump Water Heater R ebate P rogram
• S taff in res earch phas e for energy
benchmarking with exis ting buildings
Item L.4
Decarbonize E lectric S upply P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 17
Item L.4
Decarbonize E lectric S upply P athway
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 18
• R es idents and bus ines s es automatically placed into C E A’s 5 0 % renewable energy and 7 5 % carbon-free
energy product
• I nfor mation about C E A’s electrification programs and energy rates regularly on the Weekly Update and
C ity’s ‘ E nvironmental S us tainability’ webpage
Item L.4
U tilize Land U s e & N atural C limate S olutions P athway City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 19
Item L.4
U tilize Land U s e & N atural C limate S olutions P athway City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 20
• Tree canopy coverage as s es s ment and tree
inventor y launched las t s ummer (2 0 2 5 )
• Mayors ’ Monarch P ledge / P ollinator
Friendly City
• Pollinator garden planted in front of City Hall
• 2 0 m ilkweeds planted in City s paces each year
Item L.4
E nhance C ircular E conomy and Food S ys tems P athway City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 21
Item L.4
E nhance Circular E conomy and Food S ys tems
City Council Meeting
May 27, 2026 S lide 22
• 100% Compliance with S B 1383
• Free C ompos t Hub added to P ublic Works Yard
• Installed Litter B each P ick-up S tations and
B each Toy B or row B ox
• P izza box organics recycling bins at Fletcher
C ove
• Fir s t S olana B each C lothing S wap held in
J anuary
• Informational HHW magnet mailer
• Compos table utens ils at Fies ta del S ol
Item L.4
Dis cus s ion & Ques tions
City Council Meeting – May 27, 2026
Item L.4
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # L.5.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: Dion Akers – Government Relations Manager City Manager’s Office
SUBJECT: Draft Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Work Plan Review
BACKGROUND:
Each fiscal year, the City Council approves a Work Plan which outlines the City’s project and program goals and actions for the year ahead. The Work Plan is drafted by the City Manager in collaboration with staff and the City Council and, along with the Legislative Policy and Budget, serves as a guiding document that outlines much of the City’s work and priorities for the year ahead.
This item is before the City Council to review the draft FY 2026-2027 Work Plan, as well as receive public input and discussion, and provide direction on additions or modifications to the Plan. This follows the review and approval of the Legislative Policy in February; the review of the current 2025-2026 Work Plan progress in April, which included recommendations for the coming year’s Plan; and further informs the drafting of the midcycle Budget update in June.
The Work Plan strategically aligns with the focuses of the Legislative Policy and is divided into the same five priorities: Affordable Housing and Livable Communities; Transportation and Mobility; Environmental Sustainability and Energy; Youth, Senior and Community Well-Being; and General Governance and Fiscal Responsibility.
Following Council’s review of the draft FY 2026-2027 Work Plan, staff will further refine and update the draft. The final version of the FY 2026-2027 Work Plan will be brought back to Council for adoption along with the FY 2026-2027 Budget update in June.
DISCUSSION:
At the April 22, 2026, City Council meeting, the Council reviewed progress on the current Work Plan and provided initial recommendations and revisions to consider for the next Plan. The draft FY 2026-2027 Work Plan (Attachment 1) has been developed following this input from Council as well as discussions with staff, City commissioners, and members of the public, and a draft FY 2026-2027 Work Plan is now being brought back for consideration and direction.
Item L.5
May 27, 2026
Draft FY 2026-27 Work Plan Review
This year’s draft Work Plan continues the strategic focus on last year’s Work Plan and has been developed to closely align with the City’s recently adopted Legislative Policy, focusing on five priorities: Affordable Housing and Livable Communities; Transportation and Mobility; Environmental Sustainability and Energy; Youth, Senior and Community WellBeing; and General Governance and Fiscal Responsibility.
The five policy areas outlined in the Work Plan reflect Solana Beach's commitment to being proactive in its legislative advocacy, addressing immediate concerns, and planning for the future. The City will continue to advocate for legislation that strengthens local governance, secures resources for essential services, and fosters collaborative solutions with regional and state partners. Additionally, the City remains dedicated to advancing policies that protect the health, safety, and quality of life of its residents, while promoting a fiscally responsible and effective municipal operation.
The draft Work Plan has undergone numerous refinements during development. Multiple projects and goals that were recommended to continue from last year have been edited, some projects and programs have been renamed for clarity and consistency, duplicative items have been combined, and some items have been eliminated to reflect input from council, staff research, or reprioritization. In addition, staff have drafted the Plan with a strong focus on building goals and projects based on staffs’ capacity to execute; availability of, or, identified budget; and prioritization of projects and goals that can be completed within the fiscal year.
Following City Council’s review of the draft 2026-2027 Work Plan, staff intends to bring back a final Plan for formal adoption with the mid-cycle Budget update on June 24th, 2026.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this update.
WORK PLAN:
This item is an update to the Work Plan.
OPTIONS:
• Receive the draft report, and provide direction and input to City Staff.
Item L.5
May 27, 2026
Draft FY 2026-27 Work Plan Review
CITY STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Review and discuss the draft FY 2026-2027 Work Plan
2. Provide direction on potential projects and goals to modify, eliminate or add in the Plan.
_________________________
Alyssa Muto, City Manager
Attachments:
1. Draft FY 2026-2027 Work Plan
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 1
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
CITY COUNCIL WORK PLAN
FISCAL YEAR 2026 – 2027
Working Draft
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 2 Table of Contents
Introduction
City Manager's Report (to be updated in Final draft) …………………………………………..…4 Mission Statement ……………………………………………………………………..…………………5
Legislative Priorities ……………………………………………………………………………………. 5 I. Affordable Housing and Livable Communities
Housing & Land Use Planning
Permit Ready ADU Program .……………………………………………………………..…………… 6 S. Sierra Affordable Housing Project (Pearl Project) ………………………………….….……….…6 Affordable Housing on City Owned Property ………………………………………………………… 7 General Plan Safety Element Update ……………………………………………………………….. 8 Local Coastal Program/Land Use Plan ………………………………………………………………..8 Zoning & Regulatory Updates
First Floor Commercial Use Zoning Ordinance Update ……………………………………………. 9 Short Term Vacation Rental (STVR) Permit Ordinance Update ………………………………….. 9 Brush Management Landscape Permit ………………………………………………………………. 10 Urban Agricultural Regulations Update ………………………………………………………………. 10 Permit Processing & Customer Assistance Improvements
eTrakit Online Payment Program Permit Expansion ……………………………………………….. 11 Over the Counter Plan View and Permitting Program “Self-Certification Program” ………….… 12 Building Permit Estimated Fee Calculator …………………………………………………………….12 II. Transportation and Mobility
Street Corridor Improvements
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor-East Project......................................................................................... 13 Lomas Santa Fe Corridor-West Project………………………………………………………………. 13 Annual Pavement Management Program …………………………………………………………… 14 Highway 101 Tree Grate Replacement ………………………………………………………………. 15 Traffic Calming Projects
San Mario Community Traffic Calming ………………………………………………………………. 15 Solana Highlands Traffic Calming …………………………………………………………………….. 16 AB413 ‘Daylighting’ Framework Options ……………………………………………………………. 16 CATS Projects / Vision Zero Action Items
Audio Alert Signals for Lomas Santa Fe Highway Ramp Crossings ……………………………… 17 Glencrest Sidewalk Improvements …………………………………………………………………… 17 Cliff Street Comprehensive Improvements ………………………………………………………….. 18 Coastal Rail Trail Northern Extension ………………………………………………………………. 18 Santa Helena Neighborhood Trail …………………………………………………………………… 19 Fletcher Cove Park and El Viento Pocket Park Trail Improvements ……………………………... 19 Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 3 III. Environmental Sustainability
Climate Action Plan
City EV Charging Program Expansion ………………………………………………………………. 21 Greenhouse Gas Inventory Project ………………………………………………………………….. 22 Fixit Clinic Community Event …………………………………………………………………………. 22 Urban Forestry Plan …………………………………………………………………………………… 23 Heat Pump Rebate Program ………………………………………………………………………….. 23 SB1383 Organics Education ………………………………………………………………………….. 23 Public Parking Solar and Battery Project ……………………………………………………………. 24 Building Energy Benchmarking ………………………………………………………………………. 25 Single-Use Plastic Ordinance ………………………………………………………………………… 25 Mayor's Monarch Pledge
Native Pollinator Garden Conservation Program …………………………………………………… 26 Infrastructure Improvements
City Facilities Energy Efficiency and Decarbonization ………..…………………………………… 27 Major Storm Drain System Improvements Projects ………………………………………………… 27 Major Sewer System Improvements Projects ……………………………………………………….. 28 IV. Community Well-Being
Parks & Facilities
Marine Safety Center ………………………………………………………………………………….. 29 La Colonia Park and Building Improvements………………………………………………………… 30 Fletcher Cove Bulletin Board Upgrade ………………………………………………………………. 31 Age-Friendly Action Plan / Senior Services
Senior Transportation Pilot Program …………………………………………………………………. 31 Senior Services City Website Update ………………………………………………………………… 32 Senior & Intergenerational Pilot Programs ………………………………………………………….. 32 City of Kindness
Promoting Community Kindness ……………………………………………………………………… 33 Solana Beach Cares Program Expansion …………………………………………………………… 34 Arts & Culture
Public Arts Strategic Plan ……………………………………………………………………………… 34 City Council Chambers Art Improvements …………………………………………………………. 35 New City Street Banners ………………………………………………………………………………. 36 Hospitality & Tourism Initiatives
Fletcher Cove Destination Swing ………………………………………………………………………37 New Highway 101 Special Event Lighting …………………………………………………………….37 New City Logo & Branding Manual …………………………………………………………………….38 40th Anniversary City Celebrations …………………………………………………………………… 39 Healthy & Livable Communities
Solana Beach Community Network ………………………………………………………………….. 39 E-Bike Safety & Education …………………………………………………………………………….. 40 Synthetic Drug Substance Prohibition ……………………………………………………………….. 41 Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 4 V. General Governance and Fiscal Responsibility
Staff Development & Workplace Culture
Staff Engagement and Effectiveness ………………………………………………………………… 42 Diverse and Inclusive Work Environment …………………………………………………..………. 43 Performance Measurement Program ………………………………………………………………… 43 Communications
City Website Improvements …………………………………………………………………………… 44 City Communications Policy ………………………………………………………………………….. 45 Information Technology
Cyber Security Expansion …………………………………………………………………………….. 45 Unified Communications ………………………………………………………………………………. 46 Financial Health and Stability
Measures to Reduce CalPERS Future Liabilities …………………………………………………….47 Measures to Reduce OPEB Future Liabilities ……………………………………………………….. 47 Asset Management & Master Planning
Facilities/Asset Replacement Master Plan …………………………………………………………... 48 Asset Management Master Planning …………………………………………………………………. 48 City Hall Deferred Maintenance ………………………………………………………………………..49 Pavement Preservation/Moratorium Policy …………………………………………………………. 49 Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 5 Mission Statement
To have an efficient and effective City Government that works to balance fiscal sustainability while maintaining environmental sustainability, quality of life and community character.
Legislative Priorities
The City of Solana Beach is a vibrant coastal community committed to preserving its unique character while addressing the evolving needs of its residents. The City recently adopted a Legislative Policy that serves as a guiding framework for the City Council’s advocacy efforts on key priorities that enhance the quality of life for all residents. Through this policy, the City will actively pursue legislation and funding opportunities that advance local priorities such as affordable housing and livable communities, transportation solutions, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of youth, seniors, and the broader community. By taking thoughtful and strategic legislative action, we will ensure that Solana Beach continues to be a great place to live—a community that is safe, welcoming, and full of opportunity for all its residents.
The five policy areas outlined in this platform reflect Solana Beach's commitment to being proactive in its legislative advocacy, addressing immediate concerns, and planning for the future.
The City will continue to advocate for legislation that strengthens local governance, secures resources for essential services, and fosters collaborative solutions with regional and state partners. Additionally, the City remains dedicated to advancing policies that protect the health, safety, and quality of life of its residents, while promoting a fiscally responsible and effective municipal operation.
• Affordable Housing & Livable Communities
• Transportation & Mobility
• Environmental Sustainability
• Community Well-Being
• General Governance & Fiscal Responsibility
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 6
AFFORDABLE HOUSING &
LIVABLE COMMUNITIES
The City of Solana Beach is committed to addressing the critical need for affordable housing while maintaining its character as a coastal, residential community. The City will advocate for policies and funding that support affordable housing development, access to housing opportunities, and housing for vulnerable populations, such as seniors and low-income families.
Housing & Land Use Planning
The Housing & Land Use Planning subsection represents a critical pillar of the City’s foundational work, as it directly shapes the landscape of Solana Beach. Managing land use thoughtfully allows the City to balance essential state mandates with the preservation of our unique coastal community character. By establishing clear regulatory frameworks, streamlining permit processing, and proactively expanding diverse housing opportunities, this program ensures that Solana Beach remains safe, welcoming, and accessible for residents of all income levels and generations.
Permit Ready ADU Program
With the recent updates to Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) requirements from the State, the City has proposed the Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Program (PADU) which allows designers to receive pre-approval of their ADU plans from the City in order to offer their customers a streamlined, lower cost plan review for all residential and mixed-use zones.
A step-by-step guide has been added to the Planning Department page on the City’s website.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Schedule to bring the PADU before the City Council to present our proposal for direction and/or adoption.
• Conduct community Outreach on PADU process
• Review plans and approve as submitted
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Complete with City Staff time.
S. Sierra Affordable Housing Project (Pearl Project)
In 2014, the City Council approved the Hitzke Development Corporation mixed use affordable housing project on South Sierra Avenue on a City-owned parking lot. The project as adopted includes commercial space and parking, ten (10) affordable housing units and associated parking, and 31 replacement public parking spaces. Following approval of the project, significant delays were encountered including a legal challenge against the City and Hitzke Development Corporation, where the City prevailed at both the lower court and the Court of Appeals. During Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 7 this delay, construction costs increased and the inability of the Applicant to obtain required affordable housing funding, including State and County grants, resulted in Hitzke providing notice to the City in November 2020, that the project was no longer going forward for construction.
On February 24, 2021, pursuant to the terms of the Agreement, the Applicant provided to the City electronic copies of all plans prepared for the project. The City’s objective is to pursue development of the project pursuant to the prepared plans and approvals through issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP). This project would provide needed affordable housing adjacent to neighborhood services, including transit and commercial uses, and would further implement the goals of the Solana Beach Housing Element and the General Plan. Additionally, this project if built, could also satisfy obligations from a settlement agreement from the 1990s related to provision of deed-restricted affordable housing units in the City.
The City issued an RFP for the Pearl project in 2025. No responses were received and comments from some of the housing developers were that the project was too small (10 units) for them to consider submitting a proposal.
The City is required to issue the RFP again according to the Housing Element.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Release revised RFP for the Pearl project
• Schedule the release and update of the City’s website to include documents that developers considering responding to the RFP may download various documents including, but not limited to, construction drawing, title report and other special studies • Additional tasks may be added if a viable proposal is received BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Development of RFP and solicitation can be completed with City Staff time. Additional costs may be incurred through the bid review process; any additional budget allocations will be brought before the Council for authorization.
Affordable Housing on City Owned Property
The City Hall site and/or the Distillery Lot have been identified as potential property for an affordable housing development. The City has issued RFPs for both sites in past and received one proposal for the Distillery Lot and no proposals for the City Hall Site. The RFP for the City Hall property could incorporate keeping City Hall onsite or moving City Hall to a different property based on the developer’s proposal. The Distillery lot proposal would be required to maintain the existing public parking that exists onsite.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Determine which property to issue the RFP for and/or issue both BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Development of RFP and solicitation can be completed with City Staff time. Additional costs may be incurred through the bid review process; any additional budget allocations will be brought before the Council for authorization.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 8 General Plan Safety Element Update
The City’s first General Plan was originally adopted in 1988. Individual elements of the General Plan, including Land Use, Circulation, Noise, and Housing have been reviewed and revised over time. The Circulation and Land Use Elements were updated and adopted by the City Council on November 19, 2014, and the Environmental Impact Report was certified at that same meeting.
The Housing Element was last updated in 2021, and covers the time period of April 15, 2021, to April 14, 2029. Annual reporting is conducted for the City’s Housing Element implementation. The next component of the General Plan is a required update to the Safety Element to ensure consistency with the recent San Diego County Hazard Mitigation Plan update, State legislation, and the SANDAG’s Regional Plan The update was started with the Housing Element update in 2021, however it was not completed.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Update Evacuation Analysis Map – disaster mapping, ingress and egress routes, and response times
• Send Evacuation Analysis Map to CalFire Fire for review and comment • Present Safety Element to OES for approval
• Following approval by OES schedule for City Council consideration BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
There may be a cost for mapping and analysis of response times to be added to the current draft document.
Local Coastal Program/Land Use Plan
The City prepared a Local Coastal Program (LCP) Land Use Plan (LUP) which was certified by the California Coastal Commission (CCC) on March 7, 2012, and subsequently adopted by the City Council in February 2013. At the time of adoption, the City Council also directed City Staff to prepare a Land Use Plan Amendment (LUPA) to modify some of the provisions in the LUP relating primarily to bluff top development, shoreline protection and private beach access ways. The CCC approved the City’s LUPA in January 2014 and incorporated 12 additional CCC-initiated modifications.
In January 2014, the CCC awarded the City a grant in the amount of $120,000 for use by the City in updating the draft fee study to reflect the policies in the Certified LUP. An updated public recreation impact fee study and draft LUPA was submitted to the CCC on April 29, 2016, and approved by the CCC with modifications. The City Council adopted the modification on November 13, 2018; CCC Executive Director concurrence was received on December 13, 2018. City Staff continues to work on the draft LIP that would geographically segment the bluff top properties from the rest of the City and Title 19 has been reserved for the “Coastal Zone” provisions associated with the LCP/LIP.
The City of Solana Beach 2018 Certified LUP Policy 4.51 requires the coastal bluff erosion rate to be re-calculated every 10 years. This is done by repeating the coastal bluff LiDAR survey every 10 years. The 2026 (10-year update) survey was conducted earlier this May by KDM Meridian, and the data will be available later this summer. Staff will work with the Coastal Commission staff to complete the necessary updates to the data as required and then work on an updated fee for the Sand Mitigation Fee and the Public Recreation Impact Mitigation Fee.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 9 FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Prepare documents necessary to update the City’s public recreation impact fee and sand mitigation fee
• Conduct public engagement and prepare a draft LIP and Land Use Plan BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
$127,170 budgeted for the PRIM and SMF updates
Zoning & Regulatory Updates
The City regularly evaluates its zoning ordinances and land use regulations to ensure they reflect community priorities, respond to changes in State law, and balance housing stock with neighborhood character. The following projects represent ongoing updates to commercial zoning, short-term rental regulations, brush management, and urban agriculture standards.
First Floor Commercial Use Zoning Ordinance Update
Council has expressed an interest in limiting the amount of professional office and medical office on the first floor of buildings within Special Commercial (SC) Zone on Cedros Avenue. SBMC
17.28 Special Commercial (SC) Zone indicates that “Business, professional, medical and dental offices shall not exceed 50 percent of gross allowable floor area.” Draft language was prepared for consideration in December 2025; the ordinance was pulled so that concerns could be appropriately addressed. Based on last discussions there may be a desire to expand this update to the Highway 101 General Commercial (C) zone. Further direction is needed to identify business types that would be allowed on the first floor, the parameters of the restrictions, enforcement processes, and any other concerns from the Council.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Outline areas to be impacted, business types, and any other opportunities for municipal code updates.
• Draft update to the use classifications matrix, zoning regulations and any necessary updates to the Highway 101 Specific Plan
• Conduct a community meeting/present to Business Liaison Group/Chamber • Bring ordinance to a City Council public hearing for introduction and adopt the ordinance BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Development of draft regulations can be completed with City Staff time.
Short Term Vacation Rental Permit Ordinance Update
The City’s current Short-Term Vacation Rental (STVR) Permit regulations allow for the rental of any residentially zoned dwelling unit, other than Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), including detached single-family residences, condominiums, duplexes, twinplexes, townhomes, and multifamily dwellings. Since adoption of the City’s STVR regulations, the soaring popularity of vacationrental-hosting websites has resulted in a proliferation of STVRs throughout the San Diego region.
On an annual basis, Staff handles a variety of complaints regarding STVRs and their impacts to Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 10 local neighborhoods including noise, parking, and unruly guests. To maintain an appropriate balance of housing stock dedicated to residents and also to visitor accommodations, the City will evaluate the City’s Short Term Vacation Rental Permit regulations for potential amendments. A key focus should be on maintaining long-term rental stock in the community.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Evaluate existing STVR Permit regulations for modifications • Draft proposed language and conduct community outreach regarding proposed modifications
• Schedule Draft Ordinance for City Council Public Hearing BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Development of draft regulations can be completed with City Staff time.
Brush Management Landscape Permit
Brush management for wildfire fuel management is a big concern for homeowners, the Fire Department, the California Coastal Commission, Dept. of Fish and Game, and the City.
Protection of private property, preservation of environmentally sensitive habitat (ESHA), stormwater management, minimization of bluff erosion, and the maintenance of native vegetation are all concerns that should be evaluated when conducting brush management. It would be beneficial for the City to establish a brush management permit that would evaluate the specific property and enforce all the overlying requirements.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research brush management permit processes in other jurisdictions • Meet to discuss requirements for Fire, Coastal, Fish and Game, Planning, etc. • Draft a permit process and implementation strategy
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Potential cost of a consultant to conduct fee analysis may be required. If a second permit technician is hired for the administrative work to take-in, route, and issue permits, city planning staff will have additional time to draft this permit process.
Urban Agricultural Regulations Update
In March 2011, City Council received public comments expressing changing the Animal Regulations in residential zones during the oral communications comment period. During this time, a group of Solana Beach residents, self-titled “Friends of Hens,” provided the City Clerk a signed petition in support of amending the Solana Beach Municipal Code (SBMC) to allow for the expanded use of hen chickens in all single-family residential zones. At the April 23, 2025, City Council meeting, residents made public comments to support amending the code to allow for the expanded use of chickens in residential zones. At that same meeting, City Council agreed to add amending the municipal code regarding residential chickens, as well as apiaries, or managed bee hives, to the Work Plan.
Per SBMC 17.20.040.H. residents are allowed 1 chicken per 2,000 square feet of land (up to a maximum of 25 chickens) on properties that are 20,000 square feet or larger within the Estate Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 11 Residential (ER-1 and ER2) and Low Residential (LR) Zones. This code section also prohibits apiaries in any residential zone.
Expansion may include the ability to keep chickens on lots that are less than 20,000 square feet and may open the ability to properties within the Low Medium Residential (LMR) Zone.
Updates to this section of the code may include allowing private apiaries within the Estate Residential (ER-1 and ER-2) and Low (LR) Zones.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
• Draft ordinance update to address direction received at the June 10, 2026 Council Meeting • Schedule the ordinance update for introduction at a later City Council Public Hearing • Conduct citizen outreach and education as necessary
PROJECT COSTS
Development of draft regulations can be completed with City Staff time.
Permit Processing & Customer Assistance
Customer assistance and responsiveness remain a top priority for the City. Building on technological and procedural enhancements implemented in recent years, the City continues to expand online services to streamline the permitting process and improve the overall customer experience. These initiatives include online payment capabilities, online application processing, fee estimation tools, and the expansion of over-the-counter plan review services. eTrakit Online Payment Program Permit Expansion
Several City technology and process improvements have been geared toward greater customer service, flexibility for commercial uses, and permit streamlining. In an effort to help streamline the permit application process and make online payments available for a variety of services including business certificates, building permits, parking citations, and tracking the City Council authorized the purchase of TRAKiT software. The City went live with the TRAKiT program in July 2019.
Since that time, Staff has allowed several permit types to submit their application and pay online via eTrakit. Staff will continue to expand use of eTrakit to allow for additional permit types and scheduling inspections.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Review and revise the fee calculation process for Fire Permits and Inspections • Allow submittal for all Fire Permits via eTrakit
• Allow for inspections to be requested via eTrakit
• Continue to roll out additional permit submittal and fee payments online BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Updates can be completed with City Staff time.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 12 Over-the-Counter Plan View and Permitting Program
“Self-Certification Program”
City Staff is always looking to improve efficiency and make the permit process quick and easy for citizens and developers. As part of ongoing reviews of best practices and evaluation of existing capacity and customer needs, Staff have determined that additional permits may be appropriate to be reviewed at and issued over the counter.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research other jurisdictions over-the-counter permits and review their processes • Determine what permits that are currently issued via traditional review processes may be issued over the counter
• Establish a step-by-step process for permit review and processing BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Proposed tasks can be completed with City Staff time. Any hiring of additional staff/personnel that would support this project will require additional budgetary and organizational review, if approved.
Building Permit Estimated Fee Calculator
The desire for an online building permit fee estimator has been expressed. This would allow community members to input project information and receive an estimation of the fees that would be required for their proposed project, which would be a useful tool for determining budget and timelines. There are a significant number of variables to be considered when determining fees.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research whether other jurisdictions provide this service and the accuracy of estimates • Gather all fee data and create a working document to test offline prior to full launch BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Proposed tasks can be completed with City Staff time. Any hiring of additional staff/personnel that would support this project will require additional budgetary and organizational review, if approved.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 13
TRANSPORTATION & MOBILITY
The City of Solana Beach is committed to creating a comprehensive transportation network that supports safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility options. This includes reducing congestion, promoting alternative transportation, and ensuring access for all residents to community resources.
Street Corridor Improvements
The City continues to invest in its major street corridors to improve community character, safety, walkability, bikeability, and circulation. The Lomas Santa Fe Corridor remains a top priority, with east and west segments advancing through construction and design phases. Additional corridor and pavement improvements support the City's long-term commitment to a well-maintained, multimodal transportation network.
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor - East Project
The Lomas Santa Fe Corridor-East project is a top priority due to the multiple benefits it could provide to the community. The overall corridor project is split into 2 phases (east and west) with the East project study area extending from Santa Helena on the east side of I-5 to Highland Drive at the City’s eastern boundary. The City’s goal for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor Project is to construct physical improvements to improve the community character, safety, walkability, bikeability, and circulation along this key east-west arterial through the City of Solana Beach.
Funding from Congressman Levin’s office totaling $7,000,000 was received and will be utilized for most of the construction costs. The federal funds have been obligated, and the City is in the process of awarding a contract to a contractor and construction management firm to complete the construction. Based on the current project schedule, it is anticipated that construction will commence in Fall 2026 and finish in Fall 2027.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Award a construction contract and construction management contract for the Project • Begin construction of the Project
• Coordinate with Caltrans for federal funding compliance BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
• Construction - $7,500,000
• Construction Management and Inspection - $950,000
• Engineering Support During Construction - $250,000
Lomas Santa Fe Corridor-West Project
The Lomas Santa Fe Corridor-West project is a top priority due to the multiple benefits it could provide to the community. The overall corridor project was split into 2 phases (east and west) with the West project study area extending from Cedros Drive on the east side of Hwy 101 to Solana Hills, just west of I-5. The City’s goal for the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor Project is to construct Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 14 physical improvements to improve the community character, safety, walkability, bikeability and circulation along this key east-west arterial through the City of Solana Beach. This phase will connect with the Lomas Santa Fe Corridor-East Project that is preparing to begin construction.
Funding from a SANDAG/TransNet Smart Growth Incentive Program (SGIP) totaling $3,500,000 was received in FY 2026 and will be utilized for a portion of the construction costs. The funds have been obligated as of April 2026. The City is currently at the 95% Design level and will be working with a consultant to complete the Plans, Specifications, and Estimate (PS&E) package through the RFP process. Based on the current project schedule, it is anticipated that construction will commence in Fall 2028 and finish in Fall 2029.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Advertise RFP to complete the PS&E package for the Project • Execute a PSA for completion of the PS&E package with engineering consultant • Continue to apply for construction grant funding
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Final PS&E - $250,000
Annual Pavement Management Program
The Annual Pavement Management Program (PMP) supports the City’s ongoing efforts to maintain and improve roadway conditions through a data-driven and cost-effective asset management approach. The program utilizes the City’s Pavement Management Program (updated every 5 years) which is based upon pavement condition assessments to identify priority roadway segments for rehabilitation, resurfacing, slurry sealing, and preventative maintenance.
During FY 2026/27, the City will continue implementing prioritized pavement improvements to extend roadway life, improve public safety, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and maintain acceptable pavement condition index (PCI) targets throughout the City’s transportation network.
The program will also support coordination with utility agencies and private development projects to minimize roadway degradation and preserve recently improved streets.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Update pavement condition assessments and prioritize roadway segments for treatment • Design and construct pavement rehabilitation and resurfacing projects • Evaluate preventative maintenance treatments, such as crack sealing and alternative treatments to extend roadway lifecycle
• Prepare bid documents, advertise project, and complete construction • Maximize developer contributions to repair roads impacted by development, including Solana Highlands and Ocean Ranch
• Complete annual citywide evaluation of PCI to adjust pavement management program strategy
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $35,000 & Construction - $2,000,000
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 15 Highway 101 Tree Grate Replacement
The decorative tree grates were installed as part of the Highway 101 Westside Improvement Project in 2011. Because of normal wear and tear, the tree grates are starting to deteriorate.
There are 48 tree grates, 31 north of Lomas Santa Fe and 17 south of Lomas Santa Fe. This project will replace the existing, deteriorating tree grates along the west side of Highway 101.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Replace tree grates along Highway 101 with Cast Iron Grey anti-skid tree grates. It is estimated, 8 tree grates will be replaced annually.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
$25,000 annually
Traffic Calming Projects
The General Traffic Calming Requests program supports the City’s ongoing efforts to evaluate and address neighborhood traffic safety concerns through implementation of traffic calming measures and related roadway improvements. The program includes monitoring and analysis of publicly initiated traffic calming requests and evaluation of potential measures that can be implemented within the public right-of-way to improve safety and enhance the user experience for all transportation modes.
Potential improvements may include speed cushions, speed tables, pavement markings, signage, delineation, striping modifications, visibility enhancements, and other traffic calming devices consistent with the City’s Neighborhood Traffic Management Program and Vision Zero goals. The program also includes evaluation of state legislative requirements and roadway safety initiatives affecting local implementation practices.
San Mario Community Traffic Calming
The San Mario Community Traffic Calming project is intended to evaluate and implement traffic calming strategies within the San Mario neighborhood in response to community concerns regarding vehicle speeds, cut-through traffic, pedestrian safety, and neighborhood livability. The project will utilize the City’s adopted traffic calming policies and engineering analysis to identify feasible improvements that enhance roadway safety while maintaining emergency access and neighborhood circulation.
Potential traffic calming measures may include speed cushions, signage and striping enhancements, traffic delineation improvements, intersection visibility enhancements, and related roadway safety improvements. Community outreach and stakeholder engagement will be conducted throughout the project to evaluate neighborhood concerns and prioritize recommended improvements.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Conduct traffic data collection and roadway safety evaluations • Coordinate community outreach and neighborhood engagement meetings • Evaluate traffic calming alternatives and conceptual improvement options • Prepare preliminary engineering recommendations and cost estimates Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 16 • Coordinate emergency access and operational reviews
• Implement approved traffic calming improvements, as feasible BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Traffic Calming - $50,000
Solana Highlands Traffic Calming
The RIVA (Solana Highlands) development located at the corner of S Nardo Avenue and Stevens Avenue is conditioned to implement traffic calming measures as part of the development. The traffic calming measures include 2 median chokers, a speed feedback sign, an all-way stopcontrolled intersection, and new crosswalk striping.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Prior to final certificate of occupancy of the RIVA (Solana Highlands) Development, conditioned traffic calming measures shall be completed BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Traffic Calming Measures - $130,000
AB413 ‘Daylighting’ Framework Options
The AB 413 Daylighting Implementation Framework project supports the City’s efforts to improve pedestrian safety and visibility at intersections in response to California Assembly Bill 413 (Daylighting Law). The legislation restricts parking near intersections and crosswalks to improve visibility between motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other roadway users.
During FY 2026/27, the City will focus on developing a citywide implementation framework to evaluate and prioritize locations affected by AB 413 requirements and identify feasible implementation strategies. The effort will include review of intersection conditions, parking impacts, operational considerations, signage and curb marking approaches, enforcement coordination, and public outreach strategies intended to support phased and consistent implementation throughout the City.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Conduct citywide evaluation of intersections impacted by AB 413 requirements • Develop framework options for phased implementation and prioritization • Evaluate parking, operational, and maintenance impacts associated with daylighting requirements
• Identify potential signage, striping, and curb marking approaches • Coordinate enforcement and public outreach strategies • Prepare draft implementation guidelines and policy recommendations BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff time only.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 17 CATS Projects / Vision Zero Action Items
The Comprehensive Active Transportation Strategy (CATS), approved by the City Council in 2015, identifies approximately 20 bicycle and pedestrian improvement projects throughout the City intended to enhance bikeability, walkability, and multimodal connectivity across neighborhoods and major corridors. The projects support implementation of the City’s Climate Action Plan (CAP), Vision Zero goals, and broader transportation safety and mobility initiatives.
During FY 2206/27, the City will continue advancing implementation planning for CATS projects through development of a multi-year delivery framework identifying project prioritization, funding opportunities, and anticipated timelines for planning, design, and construction activities. The effort will also include review of regional transportation safety initiatives, including SANDAG’s Vision Zero Action Plan, to identify applicable policies, engineering strategies, and programmatic recommendations that may support local implementation efforts.
Audio Alert Signals for Lomas Santa Fe Highway Ramp
Crossings
The Audio Alert Signals for Lomas Santa Fe Highway Ramp Crossings project is intended to improve pedestrian accessibility and safety at the I-5 ramp crossing locations along the Lomas Santa Fe corridor. The project will evaluate and implement accessible pedestrian signal (APS) technologies and related crossing improvements intended to assist visually impaired pedestrians and improve overall crossing awareness and safety. The project will include coordination with Caltrans and other stakeholders to evaluate signal infrastructure, operational requirements, ADA accessibility considerations, and implementation opportunities at affected ramp intersections.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Evaluate existing signal infrastructure and pedestrian crossing conditions • Coordinate with Caltrans regarding operational and permitting requirements • Identify accessible pedestrian signal equipment and improvement needs • Prepare design and implementation cost estimates
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $50,000 & Construction - $500,000
Glencrest Sidewalk Improvements
The Glencrest Sidewalk Improvement Project is identified as a high priority project in both the Safe Routes to School and CATS programs. The intent of this project is to provide safe pedestrian facilities while respecting private improvements and residential parking to the extent feasible without acquiring additional right of way. In 2024, the Council advanced a design for this project to include the construction of concrete curbs, gutters and sidewalks along both sides of Glencrest Drive from Lomas Santa Fe to Dell Street. The City is finalizing construction drawings and bid documents that minimize impacts to the private improvements that are encroaching into the public right of way.
Design should be completed by the end of Fall 2026. Construction could begin in the Spring of 2027. Staff received grant funding from Congressman Mike Levin’s office for $600,000 and are continuing to pursue additional construction funding sources.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 18 FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Complete PS&E package
• Advertise for construction once
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $75,000 & Construction - $750,000
Cliff Street Comprehensive Improvements
Cliff Street runs generally east to west, ascending steeply from its starting point at N. Cedros Avenue. Presently, Cliff Street is paved with asphalt concrete (AC), and has no sidewalk, intermittent AC berms, and a variety of materials along the shoulder used primarily for parking.
Currently, there is no underground drainage system in place, and precipitation and other runoff flow occurs from east to west, carrying sedimentation during storm events. City Council has requested that the City Engineer investigate possible designs for improved pedestrian access along Cliff Street. As part of this review, drainage improvements to mitigate runoff and erosion along this street will be considered. City Staff will evaluate the limitations and challenges with respect to existing private improvements encroaching into the right of way, co-alignment for drainage improvement, and possible design solutions for consideration by the City Council. A continuous walkway would also be implemented along one side of the road to accommodate pedestrians.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Refine opportunities and constraints analysis for Cliff Street for pedestrian access, such as a walkway, and drainage in coordination with SFID improvements • Conduct engagement with residents and nearby businesses and schools on use and possible design ideas
• Develop design-level plans for the proposed drainage system • Develop a construction-level cost estimate for the proposed drainage and walkway improvement
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $75,000 & Construction - $1,000,000
Coastal Rail Trail Northern Extension
This project is a continuation of the City’s existing Coastal Rail Trail (CRT) from its current terminus near Ocean Street, northerly to the City’s jurisdictional boundary with the City of Encinitas. The project would end at a proposed pedestrian crosswalk that would link the Harbaugh Seaside Trails to the Seaside State Beach in Encinitas. The City will be working alongside the City of Encinitas to incorporate the proposed pedestrian crosswalk design that is anticipated to be funded through a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant.
The project would include an extension of the concrete path, decomposed granite (DG) shoulders, landscaping, irrigation and minor concrete repairs to the existing concrete path. This work will also include a refresh and repairs to the existing northern segment of the CRT, including removal of the crescent deck platform, and replacement with similar drought-tolerant, native plantings. The Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 19 City received state funding from Senator Blakespear for $300,000 and is continuing to search for additional funding sources.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Develop alternative designs for City Council review and approval • Conduct engagement with City of Encinitas for pedestrian crossing at Hwy 101 • Conduct engagement with residents and Harbaugh Seaside Trails • Prepare PS&E package Continue searching for grant funding opportunities • Advertise project for construction
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $75,000 & Construction - $750,000
Santa Helena Neighborhood Trail
City Staff are working on a plan that would implement the recommendations contained in the CATS and Safe Routes to School studies. The paved area on Santa Helena, north of Sun Valley Road, is approximately 64 feet wide, with a painted median. The area within the painted median was not constructed to carry vehicle traffic, and as a result, the traffic that crosses over the median area degrades the condition.
The citywide condition assessment identified Santa Helena as needing paving and repair work.
City Staff anticipate addressing the paving condition in the next Annual Paving cycle with a longterm plan to bring modifications to the wide right-of-way along Santa Helena. Based on neighborhood feedback, the design of a multi-use trail path was not supported and modified designs include construction of a median area, such as raised, planted medians or full reconstruction for long-term wear from crossing vehicle traffic.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Complete resurfacing of Santa Helena with the Annual Paving Project • Prepare concept designs for re-utilization of Santa Helena • Conduct community meetings to receive feedback from residents • Present findings to City Council and receive direction on design development • Prepare a PS&E package for construction
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $50,000
Fletcher Cove Park and El Viento Pocket Park Trail
Improvements
The existing trail system in both locations are subject to significant erosion during storm events.
This project would convert the existing decomposed granite (DG) trail pathways into a more stable semi-pervious surfacing that can withstand high-precipitation storm events and is ADA compliant.
Staff is researching alternative materials, and pursuing a pilot project for an acceptable product that can be used in lieu of bonded/stabilized DG. City Staff will present alternative parkway Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 20 materials to City Council for comment before preparing a Plans, Specification, and Estimate (PS&E) package for construction.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research alternative parkway materials
• Prepare presentation for City Council
• Develop PS&E package for pilot sites
• Advertise for construction once funding has been identified • Execute contract for construction and complete construction BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $25,000 Construction - $300,000
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 21
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Solana Beach prioritizes the preservation and enhancement of its natural areas, including its beaches, adjacent lagoons, bluffs and hillsides. In 2024, the City updated its Climate Action Plan, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability by aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and identifying resiliency methods to mitigate the effects of climate change on our neighborhoods, coastal areas, and the broader region. Collaborating with regional boards and local stakeholder groups, the City has advanced efforts to provide more transparency and options for resilient energy and utility solutions, benefiting both residents and businesses within the City.
Climate Action Plan Initiatives
In October 2024, the City of Solana Beach adopted an updated Climate Action Plan (CAP), building upon the original 2017 plan. This update reflects advancements in technology, evolving market trends, and the latest scientific best practices to strengthen the City's response to climate change. To sustain and accelerate progress, the City prioritizes implementation of CAP strategies and actions aimed at further reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing community resilience.
City Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Expansion
Transportation is the most significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the City, accounting for 64% of the City’s total emissions in 2016 (most recent inventory). The City’s Climate Action Plan Update (2024) identifies several actions related to electric vehicles and charging including:
T-5.2: Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Analysis (conduct a public electric vehicle charging station inventory and needs assessment to determine how many publicly accessible charging stations need to be installed within the community to meet current and future needs) T-5.3: Funding for Public Electric Vehicle Chargers (apply for funding for public chargers and explore partnerships to increase publicly accessible charging stations within the community) T-5.4: Identity Electric Infrastructure Needs (work with SDG&E/CEA to identify the areas that need updated infrastructure for supplying enough electricity for charging stations) FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Review the bid received as a part of the RFB for EV Charging Infrastructure at La Colonia and City Hall
• Work with the vendor who submitted a bid to determine if it is feasible to install infrastructure at one location and to reflect available City budget • If that is feasible, execute a contract with the vendor and begin items as outlined in the bid • If the above are not feasible, City staff will look to hire for basic electrical designs • Publish a new RFB/RFP with basic electrical designs
• Continue communication with SDG&E and CEA to see if there are resources that can be utilized in this process
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 22 BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
The one bid the City received was for $949,822.90. $230,000 was budgeted for EV Charging Infrastructure in FY 25-26. An additional $200,000 was budgeted in FY 26-27. The RFB estimated $400,000, to be within budget over FY 25-26 and FY 26-27 for a multi-year project.
Greenhouse Gas Inventory Project
The City’s Climate Action Plan Update (2024) calls for the commitment to transparent monitoring and reporting. Action CCR1.2 Conduct Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory in 2025 and 2027. This will be a two-year project.
City staff led a regional application to apply for SANDAG SGIP funds to complete two inventories for each of the 8 jurisdictions (City of Solana Beach, Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Encinitas, Escondido, La Mesa, Oceanside, and the County of San Diego). The City was awarded the funding and is currently managing this project to complete two inventories for the City of Solana Beach and the other seven jurisdictions.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Award and execute a professional services agreement with a vendor to complete the GHG emission inventories
• Complete quarterly SANDAG grant reporting requirements • Meet with the selected vendor monthly
• If one of the inventories is completed before the end of the fiscal year, bring a report with the results to Council
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Funded by SANDAG Smart Growth Incentive Program (SGIP) Grant Fixit Clinic Community Event
In the Climate Action Plan Update (2024), one of the five identified Pathways is Utilize Circular Economy & Food Systems. This pathway is related to reducing solid waste through landfill diversion, organic materials source reduction, reuse, upcycling, and recycling, and reducing food waste. Solid waste accounted for 3% of the City’s total greenhouse gas emissions in 2016. Action W-1.1 Waste Diversion Education Program calls for the City to develop an education program to raise awareness about organic materials source reduction, reuse, upcycling, recycling, and composting.
Fixit Clinics can play a vital role in promoting environmental responsibility and diverting waste from the landfill in the community. These events are designed to encourage reuse culture and empower residents by providing the skills and support needed to repair broken items instead of discarding them.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Host a Fixit Clinic with San Diego Fixit Clinic in Solana Beach BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
The San Diego Fixit Clinic charges $3,500, plus staff time and any fees needed for a venue.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 23 Urban Forestry Plan
The Urban Forestry Plan is an action under the Climate Action Plan Update (2024). Action C-1.3 Urban Forestry Plan: develop a comprehensive communitywide urban forestry plan and adopt a tree canopy coverage percentage target. Grants are typically available for these types of projects.
Staff would research funding opportunities and apply to opportunities that would be a fit for Solana Beach. Staff will investigate CalFire and Prop 4 funding opportunities.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research funding opportunities and funding strategies • If funding opportunities are identified, apply for funding • If funding is awarded, create an RFP to hire a consultant to complete an Urban Forestry Plan BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff time, plus unknown costs to hire a consultant to complete the Urban Forestry Plan. Staff estimates that an Urban Forestry Plan will cost between $100,000-$300,000.
Heat Pump Rebate Program
The Climate Action Plan Update (2024) includes Measure B-3: Incentivize replacement of gas appliances at end-of-life with electric appliances. In particular, Action B-3.2: Building Electrification Incentives calls for the City to promote incentives to electrify gas appliances and equipment.
To reduce the initial cost of heat pump technology, the City is providing a rebate for Solana Beach residents who purchase and install a heat pump water heater to replace their gas water heater.
Additionally, to increase workforce development, contractors are also eligible for a rebate.
The initial uptake of the rebate program has been slow, so City staff is exploring ways to promote and market this program. Additionally, staff are looking to expand the rebate to include not only heat pump water heaters, but heat pump HVAC systems.
ACTION ITEMS
• Continue marketing campaign and on-going review of marketing and market research • Make modifications based on feedback from the market research and the first six months of implementing the pilot with Heat Pump Water Heaters only • Research heat pump HVAC systems and make a recommendation to Council on expansion of the program
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Proposed tasks can be completed with City Staff time.
SB1383 Organics Education
In 2016, the State passed SB1383, with a goal to reduce methane pollution and other short-lived climate pollutants. Jurisdictions were required to implement SB1383 regulations starting on January 1, 2022. CalRecycle is responsible for evaluating compliance and enforcing regulations.
The City had received grant funding from CalRecycle, but that funding is ending on November 1, 2026, and it is not expected that funding will be renewed.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 24 The City has brought on one additional full time staff member at the Sustainability Management Assistant position to help ensure the City is in compliance with SB1383, in addition to the Sustainability Program Manager overseeing compliance.
The City also included SB1383 enforcement in the Climate Action Plan Update (2024), under Measure W-1 Divert solid waste from landfill. The corresponding actions are W-1.1 Waste Diversion Education Program: develop an education program to raise awareness about organic materials source reduction, reuse, upcycling, recycling, and composting and W-1.3 SB1383 Enforcement: increase enforcement presence to ensure compliance with recently modified City Recycling Ordinance and increase waste diversion.
To maintain compliance the City is required to conduct education and outreach to all affected parties, including generators and edible food recovery organizations. This includes: providing information on methods for the prevention of organic waste generation, recycling organic waste onsite, and sending organic waste to community composting. Providing information to food donors regarding programs for the donation of edible food. Providing materials in non-English languages so they are linguistically accessible to residents and businesses.
Staff are working with a local Girl Scout Troop 3844 to create a new organics education campaign.
Staff anticipate launching the campaign in Summer 2026.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Ensure compliance with all SB1383 education requirements • Create a new organics education campaign with Girl Scout Troop 3844 BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff time and will use remaining grant funds. CalRecycle OWR4 (ends November 1, 2026); RSWA SB1383 funds (~$2,000 annually)
Public Parking Solar and Battery Project
This is a project led by the Climate & Resiliency Commission and aligns with the Climate Action Plan Update (2024) and Measure E-2: Increase installation of photovoltaic and battery storage.
In particular, this aligns with Action E-2.5: Renewables and Storage on Municipal Facilities, complete an analysis to identify and evaluate opportunities to install renewable energy generation and energy storage projects at municipal facilities, including parking lots.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Explore feasibility of pathways to install renewable energy generation and energy storage at City-owned public parking lots.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Unknown at this time. This will either require an RFP and costs for a vendor to complete the work or will need to be done in-house. When staff released an RFP for a citywide facility assessment in 2024, the one proposal received was over $130,000 for the assessment and report portion of the project.
If this is brought in house, there are not currently staff that can take this project on without removing other Work Plan priority projects.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 25 Building Energy Benchmarking
The Climate Action Plan Update (2024) includes Action B-2.2 New Electrification Ordinance:
starting January 1, 2026, implement the 2025 California Building Code. Consider electrification codes/ordinances, such as Building Performance Standards, if necessary, to provide electrification options.
Staff have begun research on this project and identified creating a benchmarking program as the first step. Staff will continue to research and bring a benchmarking program proposal to Council.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Draft a Benchmarking Program recommendation for Council consideration.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff time. Current staff capacity will require prioritization to fully implement and will require adjustment of other Work Plan priorities
Single-Use Plastic Ordinance
In 2019, the City amended the Municipal Code (SBMC 5.03, 5.05) to regulate the use of singleuse plastics in Solana Beach. Starting November 1, 2019, restaurants and food vendors must allow customers to use their own reusable drink cups. Starting May 1, 2020, retail stores may not sell or distribute polystyrene foam products and may no longer bring those items onto City beaches. Stores may also not sell or distribute packing materials, shipping boxes, or packing peanuts that are not recyclable, not compostable, or are made of polystyrene foam. Effective November 1, 2020, retail stores, restaurants, and food vendors may not sell or distribute plastic straws, utensils, stirrers, splash sticks, cocktail sticks or toothpicks. Retail stores, restaurants, and food vendors may not sell, distribute, or serve prepared foods in any food service ware that is not recyclable, is not compostable, or is made of polystyrene foam. Restaurants and food vendors may only distribute single-use food service ware accessories (like utensils, straws, napkins, or condiments) that comply with this ordinance and only if a customer specifically requests an item.
The San Diego Chapter of Surfrider Foundation offers the Rise Above Plastics (RAP) Program, which supports volunteers in reducing plastics in their communities. A RAP member attended Council in December 2025 to request that the City strengthen its single-use plastic ban ordinance, in accordance with neighboring cities such as Del Mar and Coronado. This project looks to amend the City’s existing single-use plastic ban ordinance to no longer allow recyclable plastics.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Prepare an updated single-use plastics ordinance to only allow for compostable or reusable, not recyclable plastic
• Present updated ordinance to Council for review and adoption • Launch an education campaign to inform affected businesses of new regulations
PROJECT COSTS
Proposed tasks can be completed with City Staff time.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 26 Mayor's Monarch Pledge Initiatives
The monarch butterfly, an iconic species, has seen a dramatic decline in its populations in recent years. To combat this decline, the City of Solana Beach has joined the National Wildlife Federation's Mayors' Monarch Pledge, which encourages cities to create habitats for the monarch butterfly and other pollinators, and to educate residents on how they can contribute to these efforts at home and within their communities. The City of Solana Beach first committed to the pledge in 2021 and has renewed annually since.
Native Pollinator Garden Conservation Program
The City first committed to the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayors’ Monarch Pledge for the 2021 program year. Since then, the City has renewed its pledge annually. The Mayors’ Monarch Pledge encourages cities to create habitats for the monarch butterfly and other pollinators, and to educate residents on how they can contribute to these efforts at home and within their communities. The City is actively involved in this initiative by implementing various action items, such as establishing demonstration gardens, hosting education events, and planting milkweed and pollinator-friendly native nectar plants. This project has been done in collaboration with the SeaWeeders.
To date, the City has established pollinator gardens, in collaboration with the SeaWeeders, at City Hall, La Colonia, Coastal Rail Trail, and the Fire Station. This year, City staff are working on creating educational signage that will be installed at the community gardens on City property.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue to engage with the SeaWeeders and other partners to support monarch butterfly conservation and plant native milkweeds and nectar-producing plants in locations like the Coastal Rail Trail, La Colonia Community Center, City Hall, and other City-owned properties. • Add or maintain native milkweed and nectar producing plants in community gardens and at the El Jardin de lost Ninos at La Colonia.
• Pledge to the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge and complete the annual report. • Design educational signs, including Pollinator Panel, Monarch Life Cycle Panel, Plant and Pollinator Labels,
• Install signs at community gardens
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Replenishing existing monarch gardens is approximately $1,000 annually (this is within a PW budget). Signage is approximately $25,000
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 27 Infrastructure Improvements
The City continues to invest in its critical infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability, public safety, and environmental responsibility. These projects address the City's facility energy performance, storm drain systems, and sewer system improvements, supporting both Climate Action Plan goals and the ongoing maintenance and modernization of essential public works.
City Facilities Energy Efficiency & Decarbonization
There is an opportunity for City facilities to lower energy usage through the installation of more energy efficient lighting, HVAC systems, new windows and potentially installing photovoltaics and/or battery storage systems. In consultation with Energy Efficiency consultants, Staff will evaluate energy efficiency upgrade options for City facilities and their initial costs and potential future cost savings, and research funding options for any cost-efficient and energy saving projects.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Issue an RFP for an Energy Efficiency Consultant to evaluate potential energy projects • Research opportunities for the City to enter into Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and obtain funding for Microgrids at City facilities
• Pursue the design and installation of operable windows at City Hall • Document baseline energy efficient infrastructure and identify gaps for future improvements at all City facilities
• Continue to prioritize energy efficiency in capital improvement and major maintenance projects BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Estimated cost for citywide facility assessment, including energy efficiency is $250,000 Major Storm Drain System Improvements Projects
The Storm Drain System Improvements Program supports the repair, replacement, and upgrade of aging storm drain infrastructure throughout the City to improve system reliability, reduce flooding risks, and maintain compliance with applicable stormwater regulations. The program focuses on proactive asset management and prioritization of critical drainage facilities that protect public infrastructure, private property, and coastal resources.
During FY 2026/27, the City will continue evaluating storm drain deficiencies, advancing priority capital improvement projects, and implementing improvements designed to increase drainage capacity, reduce maintenance demands, and improve resilience during major storm events.
Improvements may include pipe replacement, inlet upgrades, slope stabilization measures, and drainage structure rehabilitation.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Perform condition assessments and prioritize storm drain deficiencies • Advance design and construction of priority drainage improvement projects • Replace or rehabilitate aging storm-drain pipes and structures • Improve drainage capacity at identified flood-prone locations • Coordinate stormwater compliance requirements with capital improvement projects • Conduct grant funding research and applications where eligible Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 28 BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $35,000 & Construction - $500,000
Major Sewer System Improvements Projects
The Sewer System Improvements Program supports the ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement of the City’s wastewater collection system infrastructure. The program is intended to maintain reliable sewer service, reduce the risk of sanitary sewer overflows, and support compliance with state and regional wastewater regulations.
During FY 26-27, the City will continue implementing prioritized sewer capital improvement projects and maintenance activities identified through system assessments, CCTV inspections, and asset management planning efforts. Planned improvements may include sewer main replacement, manhole rehabilitation, inflow and infiltration reduction measures, and emergency repair projects.
In addition, the City will initiate development of a comprehensive Sewer Master Plan to evaluate existing system conditions, identify long-term infrastructure needs, prioritize future capital improvements, and support strategic planning for system reliability and capacity management.
The City’s last Sewer Master Plan was completed in 2003.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Conduct sewer system inspections and condition assessments • Prioritize and implement sewer rehabilitation and replacement projects • Perform CCTV inspections and asset management updates • Initiate development of a comprehensive Sewer Master Plan • Evaluate long-term sewer infrastructure capacity and system deficiencies • Coordinate emergency sewer repairs and maintenance activities • Reduce inflow and infiltration through targeted system improvements • Maintain regulatory compliance and reporting requirements BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
• PS&E - $35,000
• Construction - $300,000
• Master Plan: $250,000
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 29
COMMUNITY WELL-BEING
The City of Solana Beach is committed to fostering a community that supports the health and well-being of all residents. This includes providing services and opportunities for youth, seniors, and all members of the community to engage, thrive, and contribute to the social fabric of the City.
By supporting legislation that limits youth access to new and harmful drugs, the City aims to reduce substance abuse, promote public health, and protect future generations. In addition, the City is committed to enacting policies and implementing programs that will help seniors “age in place”, knowing that most desire to stay in the community as they age. The City is also committed to continuing implementing programs and policies to further our “Welcoming Community” status that emphasizes kindness, inclusion and community engagement. The City will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize prevention, education, and collaboration with community stakeholders, recognizing that a strong, unified approach is key to combating this growing issue.
Parks & Facilities
The City's parks and public facilities are at the heart of community life, providing space for recreation, gathering, and connection across all ages. The following projects advance long-term investments in critical facilities, including the Marine Safety Center and the La Colonia Park expansion to smaller community-centered improvements that bring immediate value to residents and visitors.
Marine Safety Center
The City’s Marine Safety Center is deficient and does not meet current and long-term needs of the community and beach visitors. The existing facility is dilapidated with design deficiencies that don’t meet the current needs of our lifeguards with respect to storage, operations, and technology, as well as facilities for persons with disabilities or of different genders/identities. A needs assessment study was completed in June 2017, which determined that the best alternative was to demolish the existing building and construct a new building.
A Professional Services Agreement with an architectural consultant was approved in October 2018, to develop a preliminary site and building design for a new Marine Safety Center. Following a community meeting in February 2019, the City consultant prepared three design options that were presented to the Council during a public hearing in November 2019. Upon receiving direction from the Council and input from the community, a facility design was developed, and story poles were installed in April 2022. After receiving testimony from the public, the City Council provided further direction to the City Manager to modify the proposed design to minimize view impacts without jeopardizing the operational needs for the Lifeguard Station. Following numerous design iterations, a second set of story poles were installed in October 2024. As part of the December 2024 public meeting, the Council approved a modified design and adopted a Development Review Permit (DRP)/Site Development Permit (SDP) for the replacement of the Marine Safety Center.
The next step for the project is to submit a Coastal Development Permit application to the California Coastal Commission. Upon receipt of the necessary permits, the City will prepare final engineering and construction design documents to be released for bid for construction. While allocation of funding for construction of the Marine Safety Facility is still pending, throughout the Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 30 next phases, the City will be exploring the availability of grant funding and/or alternative approaches for this significant public capital investment to ensure construction of this project can start at the earliest possible time given the remaining regulatory and financial requirements for this important City facility project
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Prepare additional technical studies and apply for a Coastal Development Permit • Engage Coastal Commissioners for a site visit to see existing conditions • Research and apply for grant funding opportunities
• Upon approval of the CDP, prepare final engineering and construction design documents.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $500,000
La Colonia Park and Building Improvements
The New La Colonia City Building project is a phased implementation effort associated with the La Colonia Park Master Plan update and expansion area located north of the existing skate park and basketball courts. The project is intended to expand recreational opportunities, enhance community gathering spaces, and support long-term programming needs for youth, seniors, and the broader community.
Phase 1 consists of development of an interim low-intensity park space on the vacant expansion lot to provide near-term community use while long-term planning, environmental review, permitting, and design activities continue for the permanent facility. Interim improvements are anticipated to include pedestrian pathways, landscaping, shaded seating areas, open lawn/event space, and passive recreational amenities.
Phase 2 will include planning, design, permitting, and future construction of a multi-level Youth and Senior Community Center intended to provide expanded community programming space, gathering areas, and supporting facilities consistent with the updated La Colonia Park Master Plan vision.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Finalize design and implementation of interim park improvements for the expansion area • Coordinate community outreach and stakeholder engagement regarding future facility programming and site design
• Initiate environmental review, permitting, and feasibility evaluations for the future Youth and Senior Community Center
• Advance conceptual and preliminary design alternatives for the permanent facility • Coordinate utility, grading, circulation, and site access evaluation • Identify and pursue grant and partnership funding opportunities for future phases • Develop phased implementation and cost estimates for long-term project delivery BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
PS&E - $50,000 & Construction - $250,000
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 31 Fletcher Cove Bulletin Board Upgrade
The previous bulletin board lasted for several years, but corrosion due to coastal environment led to its removal in 2026. This project would replace the bulletin board, which is used for community information and announcements. The goal would be to use environmentally durable material that would be sustainable despite the coastal weather extremes. The material should also not detract from the natural beauty of the area and should in fact blend ascetically with its surroundings.
Stakeholders such as Marine Safety staff and residents should be included in design selection and installation location.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research products/materials/designs
• Meet with stakeholders to review design options and appropriate installation locations • Purchase product and execute installation of new bulletin board BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Costs will be determined through research of materials & design options, as well as staff time including installation and maintenance.
Age-Friendly Action Plan Initiatives
The City is committed to enacting policies and implementing programs that will help seniors age in place, recognizing that most older residents desire to stay in the community as they age.
Through the Age-Friendly Action Plan and a range of senior services initiatives, the City supports transportation, education, wellness, and home improvement opportunities that meet the evolving needs of older adults in Solana Beach.
Senior Transportation Pilot Program
The Age Friendly Action Plan (2023) outlines strategies to address various needs of older adults, including transportation. In response to Council direction, staff researched and held two focus groups to receive feedback from the community and create a framework for an older adult transportation pilot program in Solana Beach. On December 8, 2025, the City released a Request for Proposals for the pilot program to launch in Summer 2026.
In Spring 2026, the City entered an agreement with Jewish Family Services of San Diego (JFS) to provide transportation services for the 6-month pilot. The City will evaluate the pilot after 6 months to determine whether to continue and/or make modifications after evaluating the pilot. The City will also look to apply for funding and other opportunities to make this pilot fiscally sustainable.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Launch the 6-month pilot with JFS
• Evaluate the program after the pilot, noting areas to make modifications for any future iterations • Apply for SANDAG’s Flexible Fleet Funding - If awarded, manage grant contract • Continue to seek additional funding opportunities
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Pilot Project: $100,000 SANDAG Flexible Fleet application: will be applying for $500,000. This funding would require a minimum match of 11.47%.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 32 Senior Services City Website Update
As part of the FY26–27 Workplan, the City will update the Senior Services webpage to serve as a more comprehensive and user-friendly resource hub for older adults, caregivers, and families in the community. The project will expand the page to include information on any new or existing City programs and services, but also on resources provided by local nonprofits, community organizations, healthcare providers, transportation services, recreation programs, and regional support agencies that benefit seniors in Solana Beach.
The updated webpage will improve accessibility of information by organizing resources in a clear and easy-to-navigate format, with links, contact information, program descriptions, and relevant updates. The goal is to strengthen community awareness of available senior services, foster connections between residents and local support networks, and enhance the City’s ability to provide timely and centralized information for the aging population.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Conduct an inventory of internal City programs and external senior resource providers to build into the updated webpage.
• Develop webpage layout and navigation to ensure compliance with digital accessibility standards and ease of use for the target audience.
• Test and launch the updated webpage and resource hub, and establish a recurring update cycle, and implement a communication campaign for the updates.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Proposed tasks can be completed with City Staff time.
Senior & Intergenerational Pilot Programs
The City will implement senior and intergenerational pilot programs aimed at fostering social connection, community engagement, and inclusive participation among residents of all ages.
These pilot programs will explore opportunities for older adults, youth, families, and community partners to participate in shared activities, educational workshops, volunteer opportunities, and recreational programming designed to strengthen relationships across generations while supporting healthy aging and community well-being.
The initiative will allow the city to assess community interest, participation levels, and program effectiveness to help inform future long-term programming and partnerships. Pilot efforts may include collaborations with local schools, nonprofits, community groups, and regional organizations to expand opportunities for engagement and increase access to meaningful social and educational experiences for seniors and the broader Solana Beach community.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Execute Solana Beach Community Connections (Seniors) Intergenerational Games Day at Solana Beach Summer Day Camp (Youth) on July 31, 2026, at La Colonia Community Center • Continue community engagement and research to identify potential additional Senior pilot programs that can be developed in FY 2026-27.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No costs beyond existing staff time.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 33 City of Kindness
The City formally adopted a resolution recognizing Solana Beach as a “City of Kindness,” joining communities across the country that are committed to promoting kindness as a core community value. Through community events, outreach efforts, volunteer opportunities, and public engagement campaigns, the City aims to continue building a welcoming and connected community where kindness is visible, celebrated, and encouraged in everyday interactions. These efforts help foster positive and collaborative attitudes that ripple outward into residents’ jobs, families, friendships, and the broader community beyond Solana Beach’s boundaries.
Promoting Community Kindness
As part of the City’s ongoing City of Kindness Initiative, the City will continue expanding efforts to promote kindness, community connection, and civic pride through community events, outreach campaigns, and partnership opportunities that encourage residents to support and uplift one another. Programs such as the annual World Kindness Day celebration and community blood drive have become meaningful and well-loved community traditions, bringing residents, local organizations, businesses, and volunteers together around a shared focus on compassion, service, and community involvement.
This project is focused on building upon the success of these efforts by creating more opportunities to recognize and celebrate kindness throughout Solana Beach. The City will continue encouraging residents to participate in acts of kindness and submit stories through the Kindness Counter feature on the City’s website, while also partnering with local organizations, schools, nonprofits, and community groups to help expand kindness-focused initiatives and outreach efforts. Through community spotlights, volunteer opportunities, public recognition efforts, and future kindness-centered events, the project aims to strengthen community relationships, increase positive community engagement, and continue fostering the welcoming and connected atmosphere that defines Solana Beach.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Coordinate and host kindness-focused community events, including the annual World Kindness Day celebration and community blood drive.
• Promote acts of kindness throughout the community and encourage residents to submit observed acts of kindness through the Kindness Counter feature on the City’s website. • Partner with local organizations, schools, nonprofits, and businesses to expand kindnessfocused initiatives, outreach efforts, and volunteer opportunities. • Highlight and recognize individuals, organizations, and community groups demonstrating acts of kindness through City communication platforms and community engagement efforts.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No costs beyond existing staff time have been determined at this time.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 34 Solana Beach Cares Program Expansion
As part of the broader City of Kindness Initiative, the City launched the Solana Beach Cares program last year as a pilot quarterly donation and community outreach initiative focused on supporting local residents and families through seasonal kindness drives. The program has offered a meaningful way for the community to come together by donating essential items for neighbors in need, with each seasonal drive focusing on a specific area of support relevant to that time of year. The goal is to provide residents with a simple and accessible way to give back while strengthening community connection and compassion throughout Solana Beach.
The program received strong participation and positive feedback from residents, local organizations, and community partners, demonstrating the community’s interest in opportunities that support others and strengthen local connections. Due to the success of the pilot program, staff would like to expand Solana Beach Cares into an ongoing annual program with additional community-focused initiatives, partnerships, and donation drives throughout the year. The City plans to continue working with existing nonprofit and community partners while also building new relationships and outreach opportunities to further grow the program and continue fostering kindness, community engagement, and support for local residents and organizations in need.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue partnering with local nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups to support community needs and expand program participation. • Develop new community partnerships and outreach opportunities to grow the Solana Beach Cares program and increase resident engagement.
• Promote Solana Beach Cares initiatives through the City’s communication platforms, community events, and public outreach efforts.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No costs beyond existing staff time have been determined at this time.
Arts & Culture
The City recognizes that arts and culture play a vital role in shaping community identity, celebrating local creativity, and creating welcoming public spaces. The following projects represent new and expanded initiatives to strengthen the City's commitment to public art, gallery programming, and cultural placemaking.
Public Arts Strategic Plan
The City adopted the Master Art Policy (MAP) in 2007 to help guide public art throughout Solana Beach, establish procedures for artistic proposals presented to City Council, and ensure public art continued to be incorporated into the community as the City evolved. Since then, Solana Beach’s arts and culture programs have grown tremendously and have become an important part of the City’s identity, character, and public spaces. In partnership with the Public Arts Commission (PAC), City staff will work to update and modernize the current MAP into a new five-year Public Arts Strategic Plan that better reflects the growth, creativity, and future vision of the community.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 35 The updated plan will help create a clear roadmap for the future of arts and culture in Solana Beach by identifying goals, priorities, and opportunities to continue expanding the City’s public arts programs in a strategic and structured way. The plan will also focus on strengthening community engagement, supporting local and regional artists, identifying future funding and partnership opportunities, and preserving and showcasing Solana Beach’s unique coastal culture and history. Ultimately, the goal is to continue building upon the success of the City’s arts programs while further establishing Solana Beach as a vibrant arts and culture destination for residents and visitors alike.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Review and evaluate the current MAP to identify outdated policies, procedural gaps, and opportunities to better support the City’s current and evolving arts and culture programs. • Research similar public arts strategic plans, policies, and best practices from comparable arts-focused communities to help develop the updated plan framework. • Work with the PAC to develop a preliminary plan framework and project timeline. • Identify and evaluate potential funding sources to support consultant services for the development of the Public Arts Strategic Plan.
• Develop a consultant scope of work and selection criteria for professional services related to the development of the Public Arts Strategic Plan.
• Prepare and release an RFP to solicit qualified consultants with experience in public art planning, cultural planning, and community engagement.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
At this time, there are no anticipated direct costs to the City associated with this project beyond existing dedicated staff time. As the project advances, potential funding opportunities from the City’s Public Art Reserve may be evaluated to support consultant services and the development of the Public Arts Strategic Plan. As of July 1, 2025, the Public Arts Reserve has a balance of $304,594.71.
City Council Chamber Art Improvements
As part of the City’s 40th Anniversary celebrations and ongoing efforts to enhance community spaces, staff will work with City Council to explore transforming the Council Chambers into a more welcoming and visually engaging space that better reflects Solana Beach’s strong arts and culture identity. The project is intended to help modernize the space by updating outdated décor, creating more opportunities for public art and community displays, and improving the overall experience for residents and visitors at City Hall.
The goal is to create a more inviting and community-centered civic space that showcases local art, celebrates the City’s culture and history, and strengthens the connection between City Hall and the community it serves. Potential improvements may include expanded art display areas, updated finishes and furnishings, enhanced visual branding elements, and other aesthetic upgrades designed to make the space feel more reflective of Solana Beach’s creative and coastal character.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Evaluate the existing Council Chambers space to identify opportunities for aesthetic improvements, updated décor, enhanced community representation, and expanded art display areas.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 36 • Research furniture enhancements, display systems, lighting improvements, and other aesthetic upgrades that support a more modern and functional community space. • Work with the PAC, City Council, and staff to gather feedback and explore opportunities to incorporate local artwork, historical elements, and community-focused displays into the space.
• Develop preliminary design concepts and improvement priorities for transforming the Council Chambers into a more welcoming and visually engaging civic space.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
At this time, no funding has been specifically allocated for the Council Chambers Art Improvements project beyond existing staff time for project planning and coordination. Staff recommends allocating $10,000 from the City’s Public Art Reserve Fund to support art-related improvements within the space. As of July 1, 2025, the Public Arts Reserve has a balance of $304,594.71.
New City Street Banners
The Solana Beach Street Banner Program has long been a key element of the City’s promotional efforts, featuring an annual rotation of banners for various events and occasions such as Fiesta Del Sol, San Diego County Fair, Del Mar Races, and the Holidays. The City also maintains a set of City banners displayed throughout the year. The current Welcome to Solana Beach" street banners were installed in 2013 and now the City aims to refresh the current City street banners with a cohesive set of designs that represent Solana Beach’s diverse values and interests.
Since last year, staff have been working with a local graphic artist to design new banners with uniform look that will include unique Solana Beach elements to highlight the five different themes.
The selected artist will create four different banner designs per category, resulting in 20 unique themed banners. Each design will be printed three times, creating a total set of 60 banners that will be installed along Highway 101, Lomas Santa Fe Drive, and Stevens Avenue.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue working with the graphic designer to finalize the 20 City street banner designs • Present the completed designs to the Public Arts Commission for review and feedback • Present the final banner designs to City Council for review and approval • Coordinate with the City’s contracted banner company, Exterior Products, for the manufacturing and installation of the 60 street banners BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
The City has already appropriated a total project budget of $30,000 for the City Street Banner Project, including $10,000 for graphic design services and $20,000 for the manufacturing and installation of the banners. To date, $5,000 has already been paid to the graphic designer for completed design work. The remaining project costs, including the final graphic design payment and banner manufacturing and installation expenses, have been encumbered and unexpended funds will need to be carried forward into the next fiscal year budget to support project completion.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 37 Hospitality & Tourism Initiatives
The City supports hospitality and tourism initiatives that enhance the visitor experience while celebrating the City's coastal character and community identity. These initiatives include new public placemaking features, special event programming, and refreshed City branding to mark significant milestones.
Fletcher Cove Destination Swing
To further support and enhance the City’s tourism and hospitality draw, and as part of the 40th Anniversary activities, staff will work to install an arts-based photo destination for residents and visitors that showcases the City’s unique beauty and desirability. The desired installation will be modeled after the swings on Recreation Pier at the Wharf in Washington DC and draw residents and visitors to a scenic location in the city which is well-suited for photo and social media sharing.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Research and explore options for swing type and designated location • Present options to Council for consideration and approval • Install arts-based photo destination in advance of Summer 2027.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Additional funds will be needed for this effort. Details and specifics will not be available until the type and location of the installation is confirmed. Rought estimate for procurement and installation is $8,000-$12,000.
New Highway 101 Special Event Lighting
Following the success of the purple Breeders' Cup lighting installed along Highway 101 in November 2025, the City is excited to continue building on that momentum by expanding special event lighting throughout Solana Beach. The temporary lighting received an overwhelmingly positive response from the community and showed how creative lighting can help bring energy, excitement, and a stronger sense of community to public spaces during holidays, celebrations, and special events.
To continue this effort, the City is working toward implementing special event lighting improvements along Highway 101 and the Coastal Rail Trail to create a more vibrant and visually engaging community experience. Proposed improvements include installing electrical outlets on existing street poles along Highway 101 to allow decorative LED lighting to be added during holidays and special events. In addition, the City plans to replace the existing Coastal Rail Trail bollard bulbs with retrofit programmable full-color RGB smart LED bulbs that can easily change colors for holidays, special events, and community celebrations. Since the current bollard bulbs are already due for replacement, this project creates an opportunity to modernize the lighting system while transforming one of the City’s most popular walking areas into a unique and memorable community feature. Staff has already begun coordinating with special event lighting consultants and has received preliminary work scopes and cost estimates to help move the project forward.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 38 FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Review and finalize the preliminary work scopes and cost estimates provided by the special event lighting consultants.
• Coordinate with Public Works and to hire qualified electrical contractors to install electrical outlets on existing street poles along Highway 101 and replace all exciting CRT bollards with retrofit RGB light fixtures.
• Establish a formal policy and annual calendar outlining which holidays, celebrations, and special events will trigger color changes along Highway 101 and the Coastal Rail Trail.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Significant additional funds will be needed for this effort. Details and specifics will not be available until the type and location of the installation is reviewed and approved. Full project implementation may exceed $50,000.
New City Logo & Branding Manual
The City of Solana Beach has never established an official City logo and instead has historically relied on the City seal for most marketing, promotional, and official materials. While the City seal beautifully honors Solana Beach’s history and identity, it was not designed to serve as a modern branding tool across digital marketing, community events, civic apparel, tourism initiatives, and public-facing communications. As the City enters its next chapter and celebrates its 40th Anniversary, staff will begin working with professional design consultants to develop an official City logo and comprehensive branding guidelines manual that better reflects Solana Beach’s growth, creativity, coastal character, and evolving identity.
This project is intended to create a more approachable, recognizable, and cohesive visual identity for the City while improving consistency and professionalism across all communication platforms and promotional materials. The new branding standards will help strengthen community recognition, support tourism and economic vitality, modernize the City’s civic presence, and create a stronger visual identity that residents and visitors can easily connect with. The branding guidelines manual is expected to include standards for logo usage, colors, typography, graphic elements, email signatures, City letterhead, PowerPoint templates, social media graphics, and other communication and marketing materials. Due to limited staffing resources, the City plans to hire a professional branding consultant to assist with the development of these materials and work closely with staff to implement the necessary updates across City departments and communication platforms.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Publish RFP to solicit bids from professional design firms and branding consultants. • Partner with the selected consultant to gather input from residents, local business owners, and city staff regarding Solana Beach's visual identity. • Present options to City leadership, stakeholder groups, and City Council for final review, and formal adoption of the official new logo.
• Execute a Phased Brand Transition and Asset Rollout.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
At this time, no funding has been specifically allocated. Based on preliminary research and comparable branding projects, staff estimates approximately $40,000 in consultant costs for professional branding, logo design, and branding guideline development services.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 39 40th Anniversary City Celebrations
In celebration of the City of Solana Beach’s 40th Anniversary on July 1, 2026, the City will coordinate a year-long series of special events, activities, and community engagement opportunities. The anniversary celebration is intended to bring the community together through fun and memorable experiences while recognizing the City’s growth and accomplishments over the past 40 years.
As part of the celebration, the City plans to enhance seven of its major annual community events with special activities, entertainment, and commemorative elements in honor of the anniversary.
Planned events include the kickoff of a Concert on the Beach, Movie Night on the Beach, Día de los Muertos, World Kindness Day, the Fletcher Cove Tree Lighting, the La Colonia Tree Lighting, and the Spring’s Children Egg Hunt. The City also plans to launch community storytelling and social media campaigns, including a “This is Solana Beach” series highlighting the people, local businesses, organizations, traditions, and everyday moments that help define the community. In addition to these celebrations, several other projects included throughout the City Council Work Plan will help support and tie into the City’s year-long anniversary celebration.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Coordinate enhanced programming and special activities for the City’s major annual community events in celebration of the 40th Anniversary. • Develop anniversary-themed marketing materials, branding and social media campaigns, • Coordinate with community organizations, local businesses, sponsors, performers, and event partners to support anniversary celebrations and activities. • Promote anniversary events, projects, and community stories through the City’s communication platforms and outreach efforts.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
$57,350.00 ($25,000 already approved by Council for the July 2 event/Concerts at the Cove.) Healthy & Livable Communities
The City advances policies and programs that promote the health and safety of residents of all ages. From E-bike safety education to ordinances limiting access to harmful substances, these initiatives reflect the City's commitment to prevention, education, and collaboration with community stakeholders.
Solana Beach Community Network Group
The Solana Beach Community Network Group will be established to bring together local recognized community-based organizations, non-profits, schools, and civic entities in monthly meetings dedicated to sharing updates and fostering strategic collaboration. By creating a centralized hub for communication, this city-managed collective can enhance local offerings, streamline community programming through shared resources, and create opportunities for collaborative efforts to seek grant funding and external support for community initiatives. Furthermore, the network will serve as a vital asset for identifying dedicated volunteers and will provide the City with a direct, diverse channel for gathering meaningful feedback on upcoming municipal projects and initiatives.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 40 FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Define the official charter, meeting structure, and criteria for participation, and compile a comprehensive roster of all eligible local non-profits, schools, and community organizations. • Invite organizational leadership and host the kickoff monthly meeting to align on shared goals, establish communication protocols, and set the upcoming calendar. • Develop a streamlined digital platform or contact directory for members to easily share volunteer needs, upcoming project updates, and collaborative initiatives between monthly sessions.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff time only.
E-Bike Safety & Education
The Climate Action Plan Update (2024) includes a robust Decarbonize Transportation pathway, including a measure to reduce vehicle miles traveled to minimize greenhouse gas emissions related to cars. The specific actions related to bike education include:
Action T-2.1 Environmentally Friendly Transportation Options: promote alternative environmentally friendly transportation such a bikes, e-bikes, shuttle services connecting major destinations, residential areas, and schools, to public transit.
Action T-2.4 Active Transportation Education: increase education campaigns to improve motorist behavior to result in a safer right of way for bicyclist and pedestrians.
The proliferation of e-bikes in the city has resulted in both positive and negative impacts on the community. E-bikes can help riders of all ages, skills, and physical abilities live more active lives, reduce daily miles traveled in vehicles, and provide a convenient and clean mode of transportation around the community. However, there are significant safety concerns that have arisen as the popularity of e-bikes has continued.
The City wants to continue to promote the use of bikes and e-bikes in the community but also create a safe environment for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Continued education will be essential for a harmonious community.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue the partnership with the San Diego County Bike Coalition and BikeWalkSolana to provide education workshops and practical exercises throughout the community. • Partner with local bicycle shops on educational opportunities regarding bikes and e-bikes. • Continue to collaborate with the local schools to provide educational opportunities regarding bikes and e-bikes.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
$6,000 annually
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 41 Synthetic Drug Substance Prohibition
Synthetic and novel drugs are substances often available for sale to the public under questionable legality as a result of intentional chemical engineering to reproduce effects of illegal substances outpacing legislative speed. These substances, while not yet made illegal through state or federal prohibition, cause hallucinations, agitation, psychosis, aggression, suicidal tendencies, among other things when consumed. While newly created drugs often go unregulated in California due to testing and other regulatory requirements, many of these substances are given emergency scheduling under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The City Council has directed the City Manager to develop appropriate regulatory language to be considered by the Council to prohibit the manufacturing, sale, distribution and/or possession of Federal Schedule I drugs, including novel synthetic drugs.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Develop proposed regulatory language to be considered for adoption by the Council.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No additional funding need is expected for the development of this prohibition, though future implementation and enforcement may require additional budgeting.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 42
GENERAL GOVERNANCE &
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
The City of Solana Beach strives for effective governance that encourages the community's longterm sustainability and growth, while being fiscally responsible and transparent. The City emphasizes the prudent management of public funds, the welfare of its staff, and the efficiency, adaptability, and responsiveness of its city operations to meet residents' needs. The City recognizes that a well-supported, motivated, and skilled workforce is critical to delivering highquality public services and achieving the City's goals.
Staff Development & Workplace Culture
The City recognizes that a well-supported, motivated, and skilled workforce is critical to delivering high-quality public services. The following initiatives focus on staff engagement, professional development, and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that supports both employee well-being and organizational effectiveness.
Staff Engagement and Effectiveness
The Staff in the City of Solana Beach are the backbone of operations and essential for delivering vital services to our residents. Recognizing their expertise, individualism and role fosters a strong, Staff-focused workplace. The cornerstone of the success of our city lies in prioritizing their wellbeing, growth, and recognition as key drivers of community success. Creating a highly supportive municipal work environment should include Staff engagement aimed at empowering employees, supporting professional growth, and maximizing skills that contribute to organizational success.
This can be realized through a consistent and fair approach to hiring that ensures inclusiveness, transparency and internal promotional opportunities.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Create programs that implement an “open-door policy” where employees can share their ideas, concerns, and suggestions for continuous improvement of the City as a workplace and a community
• Identify opportunities as part of the annual review process for Staff to pursue certifications, attend workshops, and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance employees' skills and knowledge
• Conduct mandatory training for all (100%) permanent City employees focused on promoting accountability, transparency, and ethical standards • Conduct annual performance reviews and regular feedback sessions to provide employees with opportunities for growth and improvement BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
These actions can be completed with City Staff time.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 43 Diverse and Inclusive Work Environment
Recognizing the evolving social and political landscape, organizations are actively working towards fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within their ranks. Research indicates that beyond legal and moral imperatives, diversity and inclusion offer substantial competitive advantages. The City is committed to nurturing an inclusive workplace culture, emphasizing employee engagement to bolster professional advancement, development, and retention. These objectives are communicated transparently to Staff and the Council, with progress assessed through key performance indicators that track trends within the City and across the broader region. By incorporating these actions, the City can actively promote and cultivate a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace environment.
FY 2026-27 ACTIONS
• Implement regular diversity and inclusionary trainings sessions and workshops for all Staff members to raise awareness and promote understanding of diverse perspectives, cultures, and identities
• Review and update City policies and procedures to ensure they are inclusive and supportive of all employees, regardless of their background, ability, or identity • Collaborate with local community organizations and advocacy groups to foster partnerships and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion both within the City workforce and the broader community
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
These actions can be completed with City Staff time; additional funding may be necessary to bring in outside speakers or forms of DEI workshops for City Staff.
Performance Measurement Program
Implementing a performance measurement program involves establishing a systematic approach to evaluate and track the effectiveness and efficiency of the City. By measuring the current activities areas for improvement can be identified. The City can work with the employees to adjust programs, policies, and practices that can result in a better workplace environment, with improved organizational productivity and with optimal customer service.
FY 2026-27 ACTIONS
• Complete analysis of FY 2025/2026 performance measures and report results and action plan to City Council in the FY 2026/2027 Budget
• Identify appropriate community survey tool(s) to evaluate customer satisfaction that matches the performance measurement goals
• Evaluate existing Committees/Commissions and un-official Committees/Commissions and develop performance measures and/or guidelines for these designees BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No additional funding is expected for the development of this prohibition, though future implementation and enforcement may require additional budgeting.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 44 Communications
The City continues to effectively utilize communications to keep the community engaged, informed, and connected. Regular updates to the City’s website, email alerts, the weekly enewsletter (Solana Beach Weekly Update), and active use of social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Threads & LinkedIn) allow the City to promptly share important information regarding City services, programs, news, and events. In the coming year, there will be a concentrated effort to expand the City’s social media presence and maximize the use of digital platforms to better promote and grow community forward programs, events and initiatives, such as the City of Kindness Initiative. Social media accounts will focus on key news updates, special events, and specific programs like the Junior Lifeguard Program, Summer Day Camp Program, and various special events to ensure residents stay informed about important updates and opportunities.
City Website Improvements
The City is undertaking a comprehensive website improvement effort to ensure the City’s website remains accurate, accessible, user-friendly, visually engaging, and easy for residents, businesses, and visitors to navigate. As the City’s primary public information resource, the website plays a critical role in how the community accesses services, finds information, stays informed on projects and events, and interacts with City departments. This project will focus on reviewing and updating existing webpages to ensure information is current, important resources are easy to locate, pages are properly linked and organized, and department priorities and projects are clearly communicated in a more consistent and accessible way.
Staff will work closely with each department to evaluate existing content, reorganize webpages where needed, identify gaps in information, and develop new webpages and resources to better support community needs. The project will also include the creation of updated graphics, photography, branding elements, and informational standards to improve the overall look, feel, and functionality of the City’s website. The goal is to create a more modern, efficient, and community-focused website experience that better serves residents, businesses, visitors, and community partners while improving transparency, accessibility, and public access to information.
FY 2026-27 ACTIONS
• Review and update existing City webpages in coordination with each department to ensure information is accurate, current, well-organized, and easy to navigate. • Identify and develop new webpages, resources, and informational content needed to better support residents, businesses, and community members. • Improve website navigation and page linking to ensure important information and frequently used resources are easily accessible.
• Develop updated graphics, photography, and visual content standards to enhance the overall look, feel, and consistency of the City’s website.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No anticipated costs beyond existing staff time.
Item L.5
City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 45 City Communications Policy
As the City continues to expand its communication efforts, there is a growing need to establish clear policies, procedures, and communication standards related to social media use, website content management, branding, digital communications, public information sharing, and other City communication platforms. This project will focus on developing a comprehensive City Communications Policy that helps create a more consistent, professional, and coordinated approach to public communications across all departments.
The policy will help establish clear expectations for communication practices, content management, and public-facing messaging throughout the organization. Once completed, the City’s new logo and branding guidelines manual will be incorporated into the Communications Policy to help ensure a cohesive visual identity and communication standard across all City materials, digital platforms, and promotional efforts.
FY 2026-27 ACTIONS
• Review existing City communication practices and policies related to social media, website content, and public information sharing.
• Coordinate with departments to gather feedback and identify communication needs, operational considerations, and best practices.
• Develop a City Communications Policy to establish clear communication standards, procedures, and branding consistency across all departments and platforms. • Present the proposed City Communications Policy to City Council for review and approval.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
No anticipated costs beyond existing staff time.
Information Technology
The City's information technology infrastructure underpins virtually every aspect of municipal operations, from public-facing services to internal staff productivity. The following projects strengthen the City's cybersecurity posture and modernize its communications systems to ensure resilient and reliable service delivery.
Cyber Security Expansion
The City of Solana Beach maintains an ongoing Cyber Security Expansion program to protect municipal systems, data, and infrastructure from evolving cyber threats. In FY 2025-26, the City made significant strides in staff security awareness, completing four phishing simulation campaigns and associated formal cybersecurity training and remediation sessions for all City staff. These efforts directly strengthened the City's firewall against social engineering attacks, which represent the leading cause of municipal data breaches statewide. In FY 2026-27, the program will continue to expand the City's defensive posture through enhanced endpoint protection, security policy updates, and continued staff training. The IT Department will also evaluate additional security tools and protocols in alignment with California cybersecurity requirements and best practices for local government. Ensuring City data and systems remain protected is a foundational responsibility that supports the delivery of all other City services.
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City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 46 FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue phishing simulation campaigns (minimum 4 per year) and mandatory cybersecurity remediation training for all staff
• Review and update the City's Cybersecurity Policy and Acceptable Use Policy to reflect current threat landscape and state requirements
• Evaluate and implement enhanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions across City workstations and servers
• Assess multi-factor authentication (MFA) coverage across all City platforms and expand where gaps exist
• Conduct annual IT security risk assessment and present findings to City Manager • Coordinate with IT vendors and regional partners on emerging threat intelligence relevant to municipal government
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
The majority of work associated with this program will be completed using existing IT staff time.
Any additional software licensing, security tools, or vendor assessments will be funded through the existing IT operating budget. Significant unplanned expenditures would be brought to City Manager and Council for approval.
Unified Communications
The City of Solana Beach is undertaking a full migration of its legacy on-premises telephone system (Cisco Call Manager with CallExpress voicemail) to a cloud-based Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) platform through a partnership with Cox Business and RingCentral. This migration replaces aging infrastructure across all City facilities including City Hall, Fire Station, and Marine Safety, consolidating voice, voicemail, and future contact center capabilities into a single managed platform. The project also includes the porting of all City telephone numbers from AT&T/CalNet to Cox Business as the new carrier. The transition supports the City's goals of fiscal responsibility, operational resilience, and improved public service delivery. Moving to a cloud-based system eliminates the maintenance burden of onpremises hardware, provides business continuity and disaster recovery capabilities, and positions the City to scale communication features — including a public contact center capability — as needs evolve. The project is currently in the contract finalization phase pending execution of a Professional Services Agreement with Cox Business.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Execute Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with Cox Business/RingCentral and complete Council approval process
• Coordinate number porting from AT&T/CalNet to Cox Business, including submission of Billing Account Number (BAN) and Letter of Authorization • Manage deployment and cutover of RingCentral platform across all City sites (City Hall, Fire Station, Marine Safety) with minimal service disruption • Migrate all users from Cisco Call Manager and CallExpress voicemail to RingCentral cloud • Configure softphone capabilities for applicable staff (Marine Safety iPhones and mobile workers)
• Coordinate AT&T/CalNet line disconnections and billing cleanup to eliminate ongoing charges for decommissioned services
• Evaluate contact center features within RingCentral for potential future deployment to support public call volume
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City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 47 BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
The 36-month contract with Cox Business is valued at $92,351 total ($1,880/month recurring plus $24,671 in one-time hardware and implementation fees). This has been presented to Council for approval. Ongoing monthly costs will be reflected in the IT operating budget and represent a costneutral or cost-saving transition compared to current AT&T/CalNet expenditures when legacy lines are fully decommissioned.
Financial Health and Stability
The City is committed to the prudent management of public funds and the long-term financial health of the organization. Proactive measures to address future pension and post-employment benefit liabilities are essential to ensuring that the City remains fiscally sustainable for generations to come.
Measures to Reduce CalPERS Future Liabilities
Council established a PARS Pension Trust Fund in FY 2015/16 to fund pension liabilities. The purpose of the establishment of this Trust would be to pay down the CalPERS unfunded future liability quicker and provide less volatility which would lower the overall costs to the City.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue funding the PARS Trust Fund in future Fiscal Years pursuant to Council direction BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff typically requests 35% of the fiscal year end surplus be deposited into the PARS Pension Trust Fund
Measures to Reduce OPEB Future Liabilities
Council established and is funding a PARS Post-Employment Benefits Trust Fund in FY 2015/16 to fund Other Post-Employment (Health) Benefits (OPEB). The purpose of the establishment of this Trust was to establish a long-term reserve to pay down the OPEB unfunded future liability quicker and provide less volatility which would lower the overall costs to the City.
Council approved as part of the adopted budgets an amount for the City’s OPEB obligation. These amounts were equal to the actuarially determined contribution (ADC) for the fiscal years as determined by our actuarial firms. The ADC includes annual pay-as-you-go benefit payments for retirees and PEMCHA administrative costs with the balance of the ADC being sent to the PARS Trust Fund for OPEB.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Continue funding the PARS Trust Fund in future Fiscal Years pursuant ADC and Council direction
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
$147,846 in FY 2027 Adopted Budget
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City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 48 Asset Management & Master Planning
The City's facilities, infrastructure, and physical assets represent significant public investments that require thoughtful long-term planning and maintenance. The following projects establish frameworks for replacement, deferred maintenance, and pavement preservation to ensure the City's assets continue to serve residents and visitors well into the future.
Facilities/Asset Replacement Master Plan
The purpose of the facilities/asset replacement master plan is to identify costs and funding for the replacement and/or renovation of City facilities and existing assets, including buildings, parks, equipment, vehicles, computers, and furnishings. The City completed a condition assessment and associated costs for all City facilities. The FY 2026/27 objective is to keep funding this Master Plan and completing necessary maintenance projects at City facilities.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Update City facility/asset inventory list and prioritize maintenance and replacement costs • Continue with current formula equal to 50% of the annual depreciation value building & improvement assets for the prior fiscal year end. $305,324 as part of FY27 Budget - transferred from GF.
• Continue with current formula equal to 50% of the annual depreciation value of vehicles & equipment assets for the prior fiscal year end. $227,567 as part of the FY27 Budget - transferred from GF.
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
The costs of funding facility and asset replacement are significant. FY 2026/27 Budget includes $300,155 to Facilities Replacement from General Fund Reserve for Public Facilities, and $227,566.50 to Asset Replacement Fund from General Fund.
Asset Management Master Planning
The aim of this project is to build a centralized approach to managing infrastructure that improves condition tracking, supports regulatory compliance, informs maintenance and capital planning, and aligns with long-term financial planning.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Evaluate current asset management practices, GIS, and identify data gaps • Explore options for asset management software in 2027-28 BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
As-needed consultant GIS support ($0.05M)
Asset Management Software ($0.05M- annually – TBD)
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City of Solana Beach Council Work Plan FY 2026-2027 Page 49 City Hall Deferred Maintenance
Addressing deferred maintenance is vital to prevent aging infrastructure from failing and protecting public investments while avoiding the significantly higher costs of emergency repairs down the road. Because these backlogs accumulate over decades, resolving them requires a multi-year effort to balance city budgets, coordinate complex construction schedules, and minimize disruptions to the community. The actions below represent priorities in addressing the City’s deferred maintenance needs.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Complete asphalt repairs to City Hall parking lot, which may include removal of trees in the small islands in the interior of the parking lot.
• Continue to explore installation of additional EV Charging Stations with solar-powered alternatives
• Replace two HVAC units with heat pumps and perform corresponding duct work, with a goal of completing two replacements per year
BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Costs for asphalt repair and HVAC replacement to be determined.
Pavement Preservation/Moratorium Policy
The Pavement Preservation/Moratorium Policy project will establish updated procedures and standards intended to protect recently improved roadways and improve coordination between the City, utility providers, and private development projects. The policy will help minimize premature roadway deterioration caused by utility trenching and excavation activities following pavement rehabilitation projects.
During FY 26-27, the City will evaluate existing pavement moratorium practices in the region, develop policy language and restoration standards, and establish procedures for utility coordination, trench restoration, and waiver considerations. The policy is intended to support longterm pavement preservation goals, reduce lifecycle maintenance costs, and improve consistency in roadway restoration requirements.
FY 2026/27 ACTIONS
• Review existing pavement moratorium and trench restoration practices • Coordinate with utility agencies and internal stakeholders regarding proposed policy updates • Develop pavement preservation and restoration standards • Establish roadway moratorium timelines and exemption procedures • Prepare policy documentation and implementation procedures • Present final policy recommendations for City Council review and adoption BUDGETARY PROJECTIONS FOR FY 2026/27
Staff Time Only
Item L.5
Solana Beach City Council Meeting
Staff Presentation – May 27, 2026
2026-2027 Work Plan
Draft
Item L.5
Item L.5
Annual Planning:
Legislative Policy
↓
Work Plan
↓
Budget
2026 – 2027 Work Plan
April 22: ’25 – ’26 Review
May 27: Draft and Input
June 24: Final Work Plan
Overview
Slide 2
Areas of Focus:
• Affordable Housing & Livable
Communities
• Transportation and Mobility
• Environmental Sustainability
and Energy
• Community Well-Being
• General Governance and
Fiscal Responsibility
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Overview
Slide 3
How the plan was drafted and organized this year:
• Input and drafting from all department leads and staff • Council feedback and continued items from FY 26
• Priority items from Committees and Commissioners
• Community Issues Survey
• Organizational refinement and editing
• Balancing of budget and staff capacity
• Prioritizing completion within the fiscal year
• New structure and sub-categories
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Primary Dept: Community Development
3 categories • 13 projects
• Housing & Land Use Planning
• Zoning & Regulatory Updates
• Permit Processing & Customer Assistance Improvements
Highlights and New in 2026-2027:
• Affordable Housing on City Owned Property
• Brush Management Landscape Permit
Affordable Housing and Livable Communities
Slide 4
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Transportation and Mobility
Slide 5
Primary Dept: Engineering
3 categories • 15 projects
• Street Corridor Improvements
• Traffic Calming Projects
• CATS Projects / Vision Zero Action Items
Highlights and New in 2026-2027:
• Annual Pavement Management Program (PMP)
• Fletcher Cove Park and El Viento Pocket Park Trail Improvements Item L.5
Environmental Sustainability and Energy
Slide 6
Primary Lead: Sustainability Program Manager
3 categories • 13 projects
• Climate Action Plan
• Mayor's Monarch Pledge
• Infrastructure Improvements
Highlights and New in 2026-2027:
• Climate Action Plan + Urban Forestry
• Sewer System Improvements Projects
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Community Well-being
Slide 7
6 categories • 21 projects
• Parks & Facilities
• Age-Friendly Action Plan
• City of Kindness
• Arts & Culture
• Hospitality & Tourism Initiatives
• Healthy & Livable Communities
Highlights and New in 2026-2027:
• Public Arts Strategic Plan
• City Logo & Branding Manual
Primary Dept(s): City Manager, Parks and Recreation
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General Governance and Fiscal Responsibility
Slide 8
Primary Dept(s): IT, City Manager, Public Works
5 categories • 13 projects
• Staff Development and
Workplace Culture
• Communications
• Information Technology
• Financial Health and Stability
• Asset Management & Master
Planning
Highlights and New in 2026-2027:
• City Communications Policy
• Pavement Preservation/Moratorium Policy
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Work Plan Review and Feedback
Slide 9
Questions for Council’s Review and Consideration:
• Would you like more information on any specific Project or Area? • Are there any modifications recommended for a Project? • Is anything missing that should be included in 2026-2027? Item L.5
COUNCIL ACTION:
_______________________________________________________________________ AGENDA ITEM # L.6.
STAFF REPORT
CITY OF SOLANA BEACH
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Alyssa Muto, City Manager
MEETING DATE: May 27, 2026
ORIGINATING DEPT: Community Development Department – Corey Andrews, Interim Director
SUBJECT: Adoption of Ordinance 543 - Outdoor Dining Ordinance Update
BACKGROUND:
This item is before the Council to consider adoption of Ordinance 543 to clarify what structures would be allowed when use of public space is requested for outdoor dining. This is the second reading for the Council of this proposed amendment to the Municipal Code.
DISCUSSION:
On May 6, 2026, the City Council introduced Ordinance 543 which would clarify the types of shade structures that would be allowed on public sidewalks, public streets or public parking areas. While providing shade for outdoor dining was expected, it was not intended to allow for the construction of permanent shade structures within the sidewalk or parking space. The proposed change to Section 17.62.130 is intended to clarify that only umbrellas may be used in public spaces for outdoor dining and would clearly prohibit any construction of permanent shade structures on the public sidewalks, public streets, or public parking areas.
During the May 6th meeting, City Council also considered and adopted a licensing fee for use of public spaces for outdoor dining uses (Resolution 2026-044). This item does not require a second reading and is not before the Council for consideration.
CEQA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:
This project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) because the proposed Zoning Code updates are covered by the common sense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Item L.6
May 27, 2026
Outdoor Dining Update - Ordinance 543 Adoption