THIS DOCUMENT AND ALL ATTACHMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION What would be your goal(s) as a commissioner?
In summary, as a commissioner on the DRHP Commission, my goals would include:
• Preserving Architectural Heritage
• Promoting Excellence in Design
• Encouraging Community Involvement
• Balancing Growth and Preservation
• Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal
• Supporting Sustainable Practices
• Continuous Learning and Expertise Development
• Collaboration with Stakeholders
What do you feel you could contribute to see these goals realized? • As a former City Council Member, chamber of commerce executive, and destination marketing professional, as well as a lifelong learner, I bring a comprehensive understanding of zoning, planning, and land use processes. I believe this expertise will be an asset to the Design Review and Historic Preservation Commission in achieving its goals.
Have you previously served, or do you currently serve, on a Sonoma Commission or Committee? If yes, which one(s) and for what period of time?
n/a
I certify that all of the information contained in my responses to the questions on this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by checking the box below and submitting this application, online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted. I also agree that if appointed, I will serve on the Commission/Committee for which I have submitted this application.
☒ I AGREE
Daniel H. Sohn June 6, 2024
Agenda Item #9.1:
Daniel H. Sohn
Experienced Non-Profit & Government Affairs Executive
Website www.DanielSohn.com
Former Lawmaker with 18+ Years of Executive Leadership in Nonprofit & Government Affairs, Specializing in Managerial Oversight of 501(c)3, (c)4, and (c)6 Organizations. Skilled in Building Strategic Relationships, Navigating Legislative Processes, and Driving Community Development Initiatives.
Work History
2021-10 - 2024-06 Board Member | State of California
United States Selective Service System, CA/ Washington, D.C.
Nominated by California Gov. Gavin Newsom & appointed by the Director of the Selective Service in the name of U.S. President Joseph R. Biden to represent the State of California to the U.S. Selective Service System.
2022-05 - 2023-08 President/Chief Executive Officer
Visit Antioch- Antioch Convention & Visitors Bureau, Antioch, CA • Navigated complex regulatory environments while maintaining compliance across all aspects of the organization’s operations.
• Adopted cutting-edge technologies to improve productivity levels within the organization. • Enhanced company performance by implementing strategic plans and overseeing daily operations.
• Developed strong partnerships with cross-functional teams for improved collaboration and efficiency.
• Launched new products successfully into the market after meticulous research, planning, and marketing campaigns.
2022-03 - 2023-08 President/ Chief Executive Officer
Antioch Chamber of Commerce, Antioch, CA
• Assure that the chamber’s current and long-range goals to achieve business and community needs are met.
• Responsible for management of the day-to-day operations of the chamber. • Implement a marketing plan for the chamber to assure a positive community image. • Developed and implemented new strategies and policies to establish long-term business objectives and provide strong and sustainable organizational leadership. 2020-12 - 2021-12 Chief Executive Officer
Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, Imperial, CA • Lead the organization’s regionalization efforts.
• Assure that the chamber’s current and long-range goals to achieve business and community needs are met.
• Responsible for management of the day-to-day operations of the chamber.
Agenda Item #9.1:
2020-12 - 2021-08 Interim Chief Executive Officer
El Centro Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, El Centro, CA • Assure that the chamber’s current and long-range goals to achieve business and community needs are met.
• Responsible for management of the day-to-day operations of the chamber. • Implement a marketing plan for the chamber to assure a positive community image. 2017-07 - 2020-12 Senior Lobbyist
Floridian Group, LLC/ D.B.A. Pacific Partners
• Responsible for supporting and coordinating community activities while providing direction advocacy activities and political ethics compliance.
• Responsible for serving as the senior representative at the state and local levels to achieve legislative goals and priorities.
2018-03 - 2020-03 City Councilmember
Town of Haverhill, FL, Haverhill, FL
• Elected by voters to develop and enact municipal policies and ordinances to create positive change in existing laws or draft new legislation specific to the community, people, and public stakeholders.
2015-01 - 2018-09 Director of Grants & Partnerships
Farm Share, Inc, Homestead, FL
• Responsible for the overall management of organizations grant-funded programs and for grant writing to support the strategic priorities of the organization. • Duties included grant writing, managing grant evaluation, oversight of all grants contractual, fiscal, and program documentation, including site visits and monitoring; overseeing timely use of grant funds.
2012-04 - 2015-02 Executive Director
South Florida Non-Profit Chamber
• Assure that the chamber’s current and long-range goals to achieve business and community needs are met.
• Responsible for management of the day-to-day operations of the chamber. • Implement a marketing plan for the chamber to assure a positive community image.
Education
2012-05 Bachelor of Applied Science: Supervision & Management Broward College
2021-06 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Certificate
University of South Florida
2018-10 - 2018-10 IEMO Certificate
Florida State University: John Scott Dailey Florida Institute of Government 2021-01 Certified Human Rights Consultant
U.S. Institute of Diplomacy & Human Rights
Agenda Item #9.1:
City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 19 Jun 2024
Department
Administration
Staff Contact
Prapti Aryal, Finance Director
David Guhin, City Manager
Agenda Item Title
Discussion, Consideration and Possible Action to Approve the Fiscal Year 2024-25 City of Sonoma Operating and Capital Improvement Budget with the Following Resolutions:
1. A Resolution of the City Council Of The City of Sonoma and the Successor Agency of the Former Sonoma Community Development Agency Adopting the Fiscal Year 2024- 25 City of Sonoma Operating Budget; Approving Community Fund Programming; and Authorizing the City Manager, or Their Designee to Execute Task Orders for City Engineering Services With CIP Consultants
2. A Resolution of the City Council of the City Of Sonoma Adopting the 2024-29 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program; and Authorizing Capital Project Funds Appropriated and Unspent in Fiscal Year 2023-24 to be Rolled Into the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget
3. A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Authorizing the City Manager to Execute or Amend Contracts With Various Service Providers Within Areas Such as Economic Development, Recreation & Community Services, Public Works & Transportation, Emergency Preparedness & Homeless Support, General Operations/Services for the Fiscal Year 2024-25
4. A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Authorizing the City Manager to Approve the Carryforward Operational Funds for One Time Projects Appropriated and Unspent in Fiscal Year 2023-24 to be Rolled into the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget
5. A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Authorizing the City Manager to Fund Recreation and Community Service Discretionary Funding Program for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Budget
Summary
On May 30, 2024, in a special budget study session, the City Manager presented the proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2024-25, including estimated revenues, recommended appropriations for operations and capital, recommended capital improvement program, and a list of authorized positions. The budget presentation provided an opportunity for the Council to hear a report from the City Manager and staff on their proposed FY 2024-25 budgets, discuss key accomplishments, priorities, goals and challenges. The study session also provided an opportunity for the City Council to ask questions and provide input on any changes they wanted included in the final budget. The general public was also able to provide input on the proposed budgets.
The City’s FY 2024-25 Operating and Capital Budget is a policy document which sets the financial course for the City of Sonoma and defines the service priorities provided to the community. In accordance with the direction of the City Council, the budget represents an Agenda Item #9.2:
annual spending plan that balances services provided to the community within the limits of available resources. The FY 2024-25 Operating and Capital Budget documents being presented this evening contain all of the necessary elements for the FY 2024-25 budget appropriations and adoption. A final FY 2024-25 comprehensive budget book will be provided to the Council in August 2024.
The FY 2024-25 budget development included:
A detailed analysis of financial history for FY 2021-22, FY 2022-23 and FY 2023-24; Projected revenue and expenses for FY 2024-25;
Projections for FY 2024-25.
The five-year forecast will also be provided in the final comprehensive budget book.
The City Manager Message contained in Attachment 1 – FY 2024-25 Operating and Capital Budget provides greater detail on the FY 2024-25 budget development process.
With the uncertainty of the current economy and its impacts on our local revenues, the proposed FY 2024-25 budget is an active “plan” with proactive monitoring and review based on this level of ambiguity and constantly changing information. In preparing the budget, our goal was to continue investments in the City's infrastructure and increase program service levels.
The proposed FY 2024-25 budget for the City of Sonoma and the Sonoma Successor Agency includes a combined Operating and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget of $47.2 million. The proposed General Fund budget is $27,118,608, including transfers. General Fund revenues for FY 2024-25 are projected at $24.3 million and FY 2024-25 General Fund expenditures are expected to be $27.1 million.
It is important to remember that the proposed budget is a plan. The City Council can modify and adapt the budget as we proceed through the fiscal year. The FY 2024-25 Budget will be an active "plan" with proactive monitoring and review.
The FY 2024-25 proposed budget includes the five-year Capital Improvement Plan which outlines planned projects to maintain the City’s infrastructure and community assets and the potential funding sources for these projects.
The coming year is expected to offer economic challenges at the national, state, and local level and uncertainty prevails in predicting the depth of these challenges. Despite uncertainty, our goal as an organization is to provide an informed assessment for use in making financial decisions, to communicate transparently with our community, and to adapt as needed to continue to serve our residents and business within available resources.
While it is important to set a course of action, it is equally important to be able to adjust along the way. More than ever before, budgeting is an ongoing process, with an increased frequency and emphasis on monitoring and modification.
The FY 2024-25 budget before Council this evening is a simplified document, but as mentioned previously, it contains all of the necessary elements for the FY 2024-25 budget appropriations and adoption. Staff is in the process of preparing a final budget book that will contain the approved FY 2024-25 appropriations, along with a more comprehensive overview of City services and projects for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024. It will also contain a revenue summary, expenditure summary, reserve summary, program budgets with FY 2023-24 Agenda Item #9.2:
accomplishments, FY 2024-25 goals, along with projected actuals. The FY 2024-25 Budget Book will be provided to the Council in August.
Recommended Council Action
It is recommended that the Council approve the resolutions.
Alternative Actions
Council discretion
Financial Impact
FY 2024/25 City of Sonoma Operating Budget, Community Fund Programming, and Capital Improvement Program.
Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
City Manager Message
Attachment A: FY24-25 All Funds Expense
Attachment B: FY24-25 General Fund Budget with Three-Year History Attachment C: FY24-25 All Funds Budget with Three-Year History Attachment D: FY24-29 Five-Year CIP
Attachment E: FY 24-25 Position Allocation by Department PowerPoint Presentation
Resolution 1 - Budget Adoption
Resolution 2 - CIP Budget Adoption
Resolution 3 - Agreements
Resolution 4- Operational Budget Carryforward
Resolution 5 - Community Service and Recreational Discretionary Funding Program Agenda Item #9.2:
CITY MANAGER MESSAGE
Fiscal Year 2024-25 OPERATING & CAPITAL BUDGET
June 19, 2024
To Mayor Gurney and Members of the City Council:
On behalf of the City staff, I am pleased to present to you the FY 2024-25 Opera�ng and Capital Budget for the City of Sonoma. The City’s Opera�ng and Capital Budget is a policy document which sets the financial course for the City of Sonoma and defines the service priori�es provided to the community. The budget document provides a comprehensive overview of City proposed services and projects for the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2024. The budget iden�fies the City’s organiza�onal structure and staffing, includes program descrip�ons and recent accomplishments, provides an overview of the City’s financial condi�on, and summarizes budget priori�es and issues. In addi�on, the budget was developed to ensure funding was iden�fied to support the City Council Goals:
Housing
The Council unanimously commits to addressing housing needs across all levels. From affordable housing to market-rate residences, diverse op�ons are envisioned. Poten�al strategies include emphasizing efficiency in Housing Element implementa�on, streamlining processes, simplifying procedures, and exploring fair fee structures. Financial viability for housing projects is a priority, urging explora�on of various funding op�ons. Collabora�ng with partners, both public and private, is key to leveraging resources and exper�se for innova�ve solu�ons. Addi�onally, the Council acknowledges the need for compassionate strategies to support and house unhoused community members.
Annexa�on/Unifica�on
The City Council discussed the ini�al steps in exploring annexa�on feasibility, op�ons and opportuni�es for areas adjacent to the City of Sonoma. This would begin with a community engagement process would gather input from those who live in the City of Sonoma and the Sonoma Valley to determine what needs are not being met or should be enhanced and what op�ons, including the poten�al of annexa�on, Joint Powers Agreements, or other approach would be appropriate to address those needs. The Council emphasized that the process should be transparent and priori�ze an inclusive public engagement process to ensure residents are ac�ve par�cipants in decision-making.
Economic Development/Revenue Stewardship
Asser�ng a dedica�on to economic vitality, the Council intends on crea�ng a business-friendly environment, vital for economic development. Atrac�ng, retaining, and diversifying businesses aligns with economic goals. Iden�fying and implemen�ng revenue-enhancing strategies ensures financial stability for essen�al services. Exploring diverse financial resources, including grants and Agenda Item #9.2:
bonds, supports poten�al economic development ini�a�ves. The Council also supports nurturing small businesses through targeted support programs, fostering entrepreneurship and community resilience.
Climate Mi�ga�on and Adapta�on
The Council aspires to posi�on the City of Sonoma as a leader in climate ac�on, responding proac�vely to the challenges of a changing climate. By implemen�ng recently adopted climate ac�on strategies, the city aims to reduce its environmental impact and inspire neighboring communi�es. Key ini�a�ves include improving public transit to promote sustainable transporta�on and expanding and protec�ng the city's tree canopy to enhance climate resilience.
These measures, alongside poten�al addi�onal strategies, signify the City of Sonoma's commitment to se�ng a trend in effec�ve climate mi�ga�on and adapta�on. Through community engagement and collabora�on, the city strives to demonstrate the posi�ve influence local efforts can have on the global fight against climate change.
Parks and Recrea�on/Community Services
The City is interested in crea�ng a Parks and Recrea�on Department to provide enhanced recrea�onal sites and services for residents of all ages. Exploring a poten�al tax revenue measure to ensure a robust staffing and organiza�onal structure for efficient service delivery is essen�al.
Collabora�ng with community partners, suppor�ng and promo�ng the arts, and preserving and enhancing the cemetery as a sacred space and vital community history element, as well as encouraging community engagement through volunteer opportuni�es, are also priori�es within this goal. In addi�on, the City intends to create a comprehensive plan for the Plaza Park, including a master plan and landscape management/sustainability plan, to ensure it remains a vibrant and well-maintained community hub. Addi�onally, the Council wishes to explore conserva�on easements in commitment to protect and preserve natural resources.
Overview
The budget for the City of Sonoma and the Sonoma Successor Agency for FY 2024-25 includes a combined Opera�ng and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget of $47.2 million. This budget represents a spending plan that balances the need to be responsive in providing services to residents, businesses, and visitors within the limits of available resources.
Rising consumer debt and elevated interest rates will con�nue to weigh on economic growth over the next fiscal year. Gains in real disposable personal income growth are so�ening, pandemic savings are dwindling, and household debt is increasing. While economists do not forecast a recession in 2024, they do expect consumer spending growth to cool and for overall GDP growth to slow to under 1 percent over Q2 and Q3 2024. Therea�er, infla�on and interest rates should gradually normalize, and quarterly annualized GDP growth should converge toward its poten�al of near 2 percent in 2025. Poli�cal vola�lity surrounding fiscal policy, debt, and outlays could impact government spending over the next few years.
California entered 2024 with strong economic fundamentals: low unemployment, rising wages, and falling infla�on. At this �me last year, many predicted a recession, but California—along with the rest of the na�on—remained economically resilient. Even so, Californians are feeling pessimis�c about the state’s economic future and unsetled about their personal finances. However, most Californians are falling behind. Since February 2020, wages have increased 15 percent on average, but prices have increased 19 Agenda Item #9.2:
percent. An�cipa�ng a budget shor�all in FY 2024-25 and FY 2025-26, Governor Newsom’s May budget revision balanced the state budget by cu�ng one-�me spending by $19.1 billion and ongoing spending by $13.7 billion through FY 2025-26. This includes an 8 percent cut to state opera�ons and a targeted elimina�on of 10,000 unfilled state posi�ons, without raising taxes on individuals or proposing state worker furloughs.
As will be discussed later, lower an�cipated revenues coupled with higher public safety and pension liability costs will result in a budget shor�all of $2.9 million for FY 2024-25. Despite the financial headwinds an�cipated in FY 2024-25, the City has bolstered its General Fund reserve balance over the past years, allowing us to develop though�ul solu�ons to a temporary downturn, rather than engaging in reac�onary measures that may result in long-term organiza�onal harm. The General Fund reserve has grown to approximately $13.3 million over the past years, more than adequate to weather a modest downturn or even a more serious recession.
The City projects ongoing deficits over the next five years as the rate of expected expenditure changes exceeds an�cipated revenue. To avoid the elimina�on or reduc�on of key programs, posi�ons and services to deliver a balanced budget, the City will need to ac�vely pursue various fiscal sustainability strategies, including revenue enhancement. Addi�onal revenue will maintain City services and preserve the health, safety and general welfare of its residents, workers and visitors. Staff will work with the Council over the coming months to evaluate a ½ cent sales tax measure for the November 2024 ballot. If supported by the City Council, the new rate would go into effect in January of 2025. At that �me, the combined total sales tax rate in Sonoma would become 9.25 percent. The funds would start being received in the first part of 2025.
The budget presented maintains City services at levels commensurate with the expecta�ons of our community. Vital police and fire services are maintained, as are business, art, and community ac�vi�es.
Despite a projected deficit, this budget includes addi�onal resources for programs aimed at the most vulnerable of our community, increasing homeless services.
About Reserves. To meet the challenge of balancing the budget in this �me of economic uncertainty, the adopted budget for FY 2024-25 draws on General Fund reserves. The reserve balance has grown in the past years, as the City has prudently set aside “rainy day” funds. The balance of the reserves was $9.4 million at FY 2019-20 year end and is es�mated to be $13.3 at June 30, 2024, providing a resource for the city to fill the $2.9 million deficit.
The General Fund reserve level is guided by parameters set forth in the City’s Financial Reserve Policy, which sets the minimum balance at a base amount of $1.5 million plus an amount that would provide funding for city opera�ons for two months, equa�ng to 17 percent of the annual General Fund opera�ng budget. This translates to a floor of $4.3 million. This Opera�ng Reserve is designated to help mi�gate the effects of economic downturns on City services and allow �me to adjust opera�ons accordingly. Any remaining por�ons of the reserve balance are available for one-�me projects and to restore the emergency and opera�ng reserves to their target levels.
Going Forward. The FY 2024-25 Budget is a plan to weather an economy that is expected to afford the City �me to address challenges in the coming year. Despite the projected deficit, there is some call for op�mism. The infla�onary pressures we have experienced have improved yields, which will result in higher Agenda Item #9.2:
interest earnings for the City. The City has a strong economic infrastructure and elas�c revenue sources, such as sales taxes, will rise quickly when the economy rebounds.
We expect the City to remain resilient, and we will be upda�ng the General Fund forecast mid-year to capture any changes in the financial outlook. Staff will also be exploring long-term solu�ons to address the structural deficit, such as opportuni�es to increase revenues and, where possible, control expenses.
The City will explore the following fiscal sustainability ac�vi�es over the next year to maintain its reputa�on, effec�veness, and fiscal accountability to the community.
1. Strategic Planning, Policies, and Procedures. While some financial policies are in place, there are a several that would be appropriate to implement, including a surplus u�liza�on policy, budget administra�on policy, reserves levels, long-term financial planning, and structurally balanced budget policies. Addi�onally, a Penson Funding Policy would support the decision-making process of the City Council as it applies to the City’s defined benefit pension plan. This Policy would establish guidelines for funding of current and future costs associated with the City’s contractual obliga�ons to provide pension and work in conjunc�on with the City’s other adopted financial policies (examples: addi�onal discre�onary payments and establishment of a Sec�on 115 trust from surplus funds).
2. ERP so�ware op�miza�on. Staff will engage its exis�ng integrated finance system provider or a qualified consul�ng firm to perform an assessment of the City’s ERP system aimed at maximizing process efficiency and so�ware op�miza�on, especially in the areas of workflow processing, automated �mekeeping, document management system, and establishing an encumbrance and carryforward budget management system.
3. Explora�on of Various Revenue Enhancements. Maintaining service levels by increasing the resources available to pay for those services through new or increased revenues.
4. Explora�on of Expenditure Controls/Cost Shi�s. Maintaining service levels through reduc�ons in expenditure or shi�ing the cost burden away from the General Fund.
5. Explora�on of Service Delivery and Governance Changes. Maintaining service levels by changing the way that services are delivered, either through fiscal governance prac�ces, contrac�ng for services or insourcing services from other agencies.
6. Service Level Reduc�ons. If the above strategy types do not yield sufficient fiscal savings to the General Fund, the City will need to explore service level reduc�on strategies in order to achieve fiscal sustainability. This is considered a strategy of least desirability due to nega�ve impacts on residents, and municipal infrastructure.
Agenda Item #9.2:
FY 2024-25 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET
Overall
The General Fund Opera�ng budget for the City of Sonoma for FY 2024-25 is $27,118,608 including transfers. Table 1 is a summary chart for the FY 2024-25 General Fund Budget.
Table 1 - FY 2024-25 General Fund Budget Summary
The $2.9 million deficit depicted is the result of a nearly flat revenue budget coupled with a five percent increase in expenditures. As will be discussed in greater detail below, much of the revenue loss is due to lagging sales and transient occupancy tax. During the May 30, 2024, budget workshop, a projected General Fund budget deficit of $3.8 million was disclosed for FY 2024-25. Since this �me, staff was able to iden�fy budget adjustments to narrow the deficit by approximately $1 million. Some of the expenditure adjustments, such as CIP deferrals, can be reconsidered at mid-year a�er the FY 2023-24 budget surplus is known and revenue trends for the new year have been evaluated.
General Fund Revenues
The City’s top three revenue sources; including sales tax, transient occupancy tax, and property tax; make up 75 percent of total General Fund revenue. A confluence of economic factors has resulted in flat General Fund revenue overall for FY 2024-25.
Sales tax (including Measure V local sales tax) makes up 28 percent of total General Fund revenue and is projected to decrease 3.4 percent from the prior year. Elevated infla�on and interest rates led to a higher cost of goods resul�ng in consumers not spending as much as they had in the prior year. Following mul�ple years of post-pandemic tax growth assisted by federal tax policy and temporary workplace accommoda�ons, consumers reassessed their economic condi�ons and limited purchases. Following the greater trend of consumers looking for value, fine dining eateries experienced lower receipts. Restaurants make up 25 percent of the City’s sales tax receipts (the largest segment of sales tax receipts). As consumers s�ll desire to eat out and travel, they are making more cost-conscious decisions, resul�ng in slower growth.
Sonoma’s receipts from October through December of 2023 were 7.9 percent below the fourth sales period in 2022. Excluding repor�ng aberra�ons, actual sales were down year-over-year in Sonoma across all industry categories. The fourth quarter is notably the highest sales tax genera�ng quarter of the year and exhibited diminished year-over-year returns as consumers balanced higher prices and financing costs with essen�al household needs. Measure V, the voter approved transac�on tax had nega�ve collec�ons with a drop of 4.0 percent.
Transient occupancy tax makes up 25 percent of the City’s General Fund revenue and is expected to decrease 8 percent from the prior year’s amended budget. This revenue total includes one percent of TOT that is transferred to the Housing Trust Fund. The decrease is the result of sluggish demand as more frugal travelers are op�ng for cheaper travel op�ons. California’s monthly occupancy rate was down, the state’s Revenues $ 24,262,320
Expenditures $ 27,118,608
Surplus/(Deficit) $ (2,856,287)
FY 2024-25 General Fund Budget
Agenda Item #9.2:
average daily rate was flat, and the revenue per available room was down from the prior year. FY 2023-24 saw less hotel business, but years prior enjoyed incredible pent-up demand post-Covid and high rates.
Hotels in general have brought rates down to stay compe��ve as travelers opted to go other places less expensive op�ons.
Property tax makes up 23 percent of General Fund revenues and is projected to increase 9 percent over the prior year amended budget due to higher than expected secured and unsecured property taxes and higher redevelopment property tax trust fund distribu�ons. Currently, home prices in California are 38.9 percent above their pre-pandemic peak in February 2020, with a median price of $784,500. The state’s severe housing shortage is the primary reason prices have exhibited robust growth despite high mortgage rates and declining sales. The past year saw con�nued interest rate hikes by the Fed and also a con�nua�on of the downturn in the real estate cycle that began in late spring 2022. As interest rates increased between 2022 and 2023, there were fewer sale transac�ons of single-family residen�al homes. This was due in part to insufficient supply as homeowners with lower interest rates were reluctant to give up those homes to search for others with higher prices and higher mortgage rates. In March 2024, Sonoma home prices were down 1.9 percent compared to last year. In spite of this, we an�cipate strong growth in property taxes in FY 2024-25, with slower, yet steady growth in subsequent years.
All other revenues including fees & charges for services, business license tax, franchise tax collected from local u�li�es, licenses and permits, fines and forfeitures, and transfers for the cost alloca�on plan are expected to increase $301,000 or 5.4 percent over the prior year. Table 2 below shows FY 2024-25 projected General Fund revenue by type.
Table 2 – FY 2024-25 Revenue Estimates by Type
Revenue Category/Fund Total
FY 24-25
Proposed
Budget
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) $ 6,022,256
Property Taxes $ 5,516,449
Sales Tax $ 4,026,681
Measure V Local Sales Tax $ 2,752,286
EMS - Ambulance Billing $ 2,275,000
Fees & Charges for Services $ 981,997
Franchise Tax $ 643,086
Business License Tax $ 493,916
Other Revenues $ 1,550,649
Total Revenue $ 24,262,320
Agenda Item #9.2:
Table 3 shows some of the FY 2024-25 General Fund key revenue increases/(decreases) as compared to the FY 2023-24 amended General Fund Budget:
Table 3 - General Fund Key Revenue Increase/ (Decreases) General Fund Expenditures
Proposed General Fund FY 2024-25 expenditures are increasing $1.2 million, or 5 percent, from the FY 2023-24 amended budget.
Table 4 – FY 2024-25 Expenditure Estimates by Type
As a service organiza�on, the majority of the City’s costs are for staffing (either city employees or service contracts, such as police and fire). The budget for current staffing is approximately 10 percent higher than the budget proposed in the previous fiscal year. This increase is the result of salary and wage increases in accordance with exis�ng Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with City bargaining units and the addi�on of a Cemetery Manager posi�on approved by the City Council mid-year in FY 2023-24. Other costs associated with personnel include current (non-liability) pension costs, health care insurance and other benefits which are also increasing.
Revenue Category/Fund Total
$ Change FY24-25
Proposed Budget
to FY23-24
Amended Budget
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) $ (495,980)
Property Taxes $ 465,664
Sales Tax $ 24,318
Measure V Local Sales Tax $ (264,133)
EMS - Ambulance Billing $ -
Fees & Charges for Services $ (300)
Franchise Tax $ 67,274
Business License Tax $ 106,316
Other Revenues $ 102,319
Total Revenue $ 5,478
Description
FY 23-24 Adopted
Budget
FY 23-24 Amended
Budget FY 24-25 Budget
$ Change FY24-25
Proposed Budget
to FY23-24
Amended Budget
% Change FY24-25
Proposed Budget
to FY23-24
Amended Budget
Personnel Costs $ 5,002,594 $ 4,980,583 $ 5,459,481 $ 478,898 10% PERS UAL $ 1,327,620 $ 1,327,615 $ 1,874,377 $ 546,762 41% Professional Services $ 1,167,957 $ 1,781,263 $ 1,308,505 $ (472,758) -27% Sheriff Contract $ 5,344,529 $ 5,344,529 $ 6,217,192 $ 872,663 16% SVFRA Contract $ 6,773,055 $ 6,773,055 $ 6,554,311 $ (218,744) -3% Operating Costs $ 5,471,700 $ 5,433,942 $ 5,324,742 $ (109,200) -2% Transfers Out - CIP $ 280,000 $ 280,000 $ 380,000 $ 100,000 36% TOTAL OPERATING EXPENDITURES $ 25,367,455 $ 25,920,987 $ 27,118,608 $ 1,197,621 5% Agenda Item #9.2:
The City’s CalPERS Unfunded Actuarial Liability (UAL) increased 41 percent, or $547,000 over the prior year due to poor investment earnings. The UAL represents the amount by which the City’s actuarial accrued pension liability exceeds the actuarial value of assets; or, in other words, the present value of benefits earned to date that are not covered by plan assets. The employer and employee make contribu�ons into the CalPERS pension trust each year, over the course of an employee’s working life. That money is invested and earnings from these funds are reinvested. By the �me the employee reaches re�rement, the accumulated assets in the trust are available to pay benefits. The objec�ve of course, is to accumulate sufficient assets to pay the benefits over the remainder of the employee’s life. To meet this objec�ve, a pension plan should receive contribu�ons in accordance with an actuarially based funding policy. If investment returns fall below what is needed to maintain adequate funding, higher employer UAL contribu�on costs are required. Tumultuous global markets in FY 2021-22 played a role in CalPERS’ first investment loss since the global financial crisis of 2009. CalPERS target earnings rate of 6.8 percent fell short with a net return of -6.1 percent. Like most other CalPERS contracted agencies that carry a UAL, Sonoma is required to pay for that FY 2021-22 loss on an amor�zed basis beginning in FY 2024-25.
Professional service contracts are decreasing 27 percent, or $473,000, due mostly to the elimina�on of prior year one-�me contracts as planned. The Sheriff’s contract is increasing 16%, or $873,000, due to administra�ve overhead increase for training, Insurance and Liability increase, and labor contract increase.
The Fire District contract decrease of $219,000 represents the net of both a decrease of a prior year one- �me item and a contract increase for FY 2024-25. The decrease represents the removal of the prior year one-�me cost of $490,000 for 3 minimum staffing firefighter/paramedic posi�ons �ed to the SAFER Grant program and an increase of $234,000 to the annual contract to cover cost of living adjustments, insurance and workers compensa�on. Through the recent passage of Measure H, long-term funding for the 3 minimum staffing firefighter/paramedics (former SAFER Grant posi�ons) has been accomplished.
Measure H will provide permanent long-term funding for these three posi�ons and will also fund support services in Preven�on/Inspec�on as well as in Fleet Maintenance. The City has created a new fund to account for the receipt and disbursement of Measure H funds for this purpose star�ng in FY 2024-25. The City is also budge�ng $37,000 to pay for the 3 fire fighter posi�ons un�l Measure H funds begin to be distributed in approximately October of 2024.
Opera�ng costs including cost recovery, property services, opera�ons, supplies, so�ware & equipment, and internal service fund charges are decreasing 2 percent, or $109,000, from the prior year due to higher costs. Transfers out in support of the Capital Improvement Program are increasing 36 percent, or $100,000, and will provide funding for the important projects discussed in a later sec�on of this report.
Recreation and Community Programs
Recognizing the significant role that recrea�onal and community services programs play in enhancing the overall health and well-being of its ci�zens, the City has regularly provided funding, financial support, subsidized u�li�es, and leases to non-profits providing these services in Sonoma. A few years ago, the City organized funding of recrea�on and community services into a Recrea�on & Community Services program and created agreements with key non-profits to recognize this outsourcing partnership.
Agenda Item #9.2:
Due to the importance of these community services, staff recommends that the City con�nue to support our Core Recrea�on providers and have updated the amount to each to address increase in costs to the providers and expanded scope for others.
Program FY 23/24
FY 24/25 % Change
from
FY23/24 Proposed
Sonoma Ecology Center $25,000 $27,500 10%
Boys & Girls Club Sonoma $55,000 $60,500 10%
Sonoma Community Center $40,000 $60,500 51%
Vintage House $40,000 $44,000 10%
SV Field of Dreams $15,000 $27,500 83%
Sonoma County Transit $13,500 $17,500 30%
Preliminary Unallocated Recreation & Community Services, Heritage & Community Events $56,167 $21,023
10 percent City Council Discretionary Funding $27,185 $29,835 Total Program Funding $271,852 $298,358
Addi�onal Program Notes:
• Continue to include a donation of $10,000 for 4th of July fireworks. 4th of July activities is also supported with fee waivers and overtime costs for police services. • No changes to fee waiver policies for Community and Heritage sponsored events. • No change recommended in financial support to Sebastiani Theatre Foundation The City will con�nue to monitor and track the water subsidies to its community partners. The City supplies water at no cost or drama�cally reduced costs to a number of our community partners. For FY 2024-25, the City will con�nue to account for water expenses of our community partners that are provided at a reduced cost or free of charge in the Community Ac�vi�es budget under U�li�es. These expenses are categorically dis�nct from the City’s other u�lity expenses as each is the result of a memorialized agreement between the City and these community partners and the term and magnitude of our obliga�ons in those agreements should be recognized and reviewed annually when budgets are developed.
The City of Sonoma Recrea�on and Community Services Program Guidelines has provisions for 10 percent of the 1.5 percent alloca�on to be set-aside for distribu�on by Council as general-purpose discre�onary funding which may be used to support special events or smaller special purpose ini�a�ves that become apparent throughout the fiscal year. In addi�on, any remaining funding that is not allocated to the community partners above, is also added to this discre�onary funding. The total budget for Community Funding for FY2024-25 is $298,358. This year, a new approach was taken to distribute these discre�onary funds. Outreach was done to solicit interest from community groups that focused on recrea�on, art educa�on, community events and community service/projects. The following criteria was established for this new process:
Agenda Item #9.2:
• Eligible Programs, must be held in City of Sonoma/or Sonoma Valley (zip code 95476) and provide community benefit to a high percentage of Sonoma Valley residents in at least one of the following categories:
o Free community event, project or services held in City of Sonoma o Services or financial assistance that directly benefit specifically iden�fied and verified SV residents; or
o Educa�onal services or supplies to benefit K-12 schools serving SV students. • Awards eligible up to a maximum of $3,000 per fiscal year based on the City’s approved budget. • The City Council has the ul�mate discre�on and final approval for all program funding, including not alloca�ng all of the discre�onary funding.
This year the City received a total of 20 eligible requests for funding equaling a dollar value of $47,828.
The proposed programs, recommended award and number of people served can be found in Atachment No 7 (Resolu�on 05; Atachment A).
Homeless Services
The City of Sonoma approved its 3-year Homelessness Strategic Plan in May of 2023. The plan calls for the City to work with the County of Sonoma and local service providers to create a highly coordinated, housing-focused system of care that is sustainable and enduring. To move this plan forward, the FY 2024/25 budget includes $200,000 towards implemen�ng the elements iden�fied in the plan. In addi�on to the $200K, an addi�onal $94,000 of Measure O funds provided by the County of Sonoma have been allocated to fund homeless initiatives in Sonoma. With direction provided by the City Council to support local service providers, coordination with the County and community partners to align funding and services, the following funding allocation is recommended as part of this budget by Resolution:
Total Annual Homeless funding: $200,000 General Fund + $94,000 Grant (Measure O) • $94,000 (grant) – By Name Manager (Measure O Sonoma County Grant Awarded to the City of Sonoma to cover the cost of the Sonoma Valley By Names List (BNL) Manager • $100,000 – Case Manager (Managed by HAS)
• $50,000 – HAS (transi�onal shelter opera�ons and day services) • $50,000 – SOS (food distribu�on for local homeless programs and preven�on) Capital Improvement Budget
Our local economy and daily life rituals depend on reliable infrastructure to deliver our water, circulate our vehicles and bicycles, protect our creeks, and prevent flooding by removing excess water through storm drains. Maintenance and reinvestment in infrastructure is costly, and if deferred, becomes even more expensive. Historically, the City’s redevelopment agency was the major funder of capital infrastructure improvements for our community. The State’s elimina�on of redevelopment has created a large financial hole for Sonoma that con�nues to impact us. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is a planning document to support our safe, healthy, and vibrant community through investment in public infrastructure throughout the City. The CIP includes projects to improve the City's streets, sidewalks, bikeways, and storm drainage; water system; parks and open space; cemeteries; and City buildings. Table 6 is the FY 2024-25 General Fund funding for CIP projects.
Agenda Item #9.2:
Table 6 - Total Funding Request by Project for FY 24/25 Capital Improvement Program Parks CIP Projects
Streets CIP Projects
Stormwater CIP Projects
Water CIP Projects
Q[ Q
PROJECT
TOTAL
Parks Measure
M 315-54000*
Quimby Act
314-50000
General Fund
Designated
CIP # Project Name 304-50000 Gen
$0 $0 $35,000 $35,000
Montini Preserve Fire
P-3 Enhancment
P-7 Pinelli Park Improvement Project $0 $32,755 $0 $32,755 P-8 Olsen Park Improvement Project $50,000 $80,166 $120,000 $250,166 $0 $0 $200,000 $200,000
Depot Park Enhancements
P-9 Project
$20,000 $0 $72,000 $92,000
Sonoma Oaks Enhancements
P-12 Project
P-13 Fifth St West Park $0 $25,000 $0 $25,000
$0 $5,000 $0 $5,000
Sonoma Overlook Trail HCF
P-14 Grant Project
SUBTOTAL $70,000 $142,921 $427,000 $639,921
* Measure M Funding recommended by PROS Commitee
Trans.
Measure M
313-54000
RMRA: SB1
303-50000
Gas Tax 302-
51001
General Fund
Project Name 301-50000 Gen.
CIP
#
T-3 Bi-Annual Slurry Seal Projects $350,000
$986,000 $642,000 $287,000
Ongoing Pavement Rehabilitation & Water
T-5 Services Replacement Projects
$200,000
Citywide Roadway Safety Improvement
T-6 Projects (GoSonoma)
SUBTOTAL $200,000 $986,000 $992,000 $287,000
PROJECT
Grant Funds TOTAL
Water Fund
CIP # Project Name 512-62001
$650,000 $0 $650,000
Replacement of Water Services with Pavement Rehab
W-4 Projects
W-10 Water Meter System Upgrades (AMI) $0 $300,000 $300,000 SUBTOTAL $650,000 $300,000 $950,000
Agenda Item #9.2:
Conclusion and Acknowledgement
As with most Ci�es and agencies that are facing difficult budget scenarios this year, we are taking this budget seriously and have iden�fied concrete measures to take over the next 6-12 months to ensure we have a sustainable and func�onal budget for years to come. This will take hard work from city staff, the City Council and our community to iden�fy opera�onal changes, crea�on of new fiscal policies and the poten�al passage of a new revenue measure.
Our City staff is to be commended for the many outstanding accomplishments over the past year to address policies, procedures and projects that addressed compliance, support our community and moving council goals forward. While staff has been working to keep progress moving on a number of fronts while covering for a number of vacancies, we have made progress on recrui�ng and filling cri�cal vacant posi�ons. I have been honored to lead such a dedicated team, I am so impressed with their dedica�on, professionalism, and the teamwork that is authen�cally conveyed on a daily basis to our customers.
I am also thankful for the leadership and hard work of the City Council, whose policy decisions have put us in a posi�on to weather the economic challenges in the coming year. Sonoma is a special place to live and work and it is an honor to work in partnership with the City Council, the community, and our employees to maintain Sonoma’s quality of life.
Respec�ully submited,
David Guhin
City Manager
Atachments:
• Atachment A: FY24-25 All Funds Expense
• Atachment B: FY24-25 General Fund Budget with Three-Year History • Atachment C: FY24-25 All Funds Budget with Three-Year History • Atachment D: Five-Year CIP FY24-29
• Atachment E: FY24-25 Posi�on Alloca�on Lis�ng by Department Agenda Item #9.2:
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City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # _____- 2024
SUCCESSOR AGENCY # ____ - 2024
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA AND THE SUCCESSOR
AGENCY OF THE FORMER SONOMA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 CITY OF SONOMA OPERATING BUDGET; APPROVING COMMUNITY FUND PROGRAMMING; AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER, OR THEIR DESIGNEE, TO
EXECUTE TASK ORDERS FOR CITY ENGINEERING SERVICES WITH CIP CONSULTANTS WHEREAS, the City Manager presented on May 30, 2024, to City Council, the proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2024-25, including estimated revenues and recommended appropriations for operations and capital; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Sonoma has held duly noticed special meetings to review, and provide opportunity for and receive public comments, regarding the proposed FY 2024- 25 budget, including appropriations for authorized positions by department; and WHEREAS, the City Manager’s Budget Message provides an executive summary of the proposed budget.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Sonoma hereby:
1. Approves the total Operating Budget of $47,219,734 submitted by the City Manager as set forth in Exhibit A which is attached hereto and by this reference made a part hereof is hereby adopted as the total operating budget of the City of Sonoma for FY 2024-25.
2. Allocates an amount equal to one-quarter of the one percent of the budgeted general fund expenditures, not to exceed $25,000, to the Public Art Fund for FY 2024-25 in compliance with Ordinance No. 04-2009; provided that the City Council maintains discretion to waive or reduce this annual allocation if the City’s financial situation does not allow for the funding to be set aside, which the Council may do by budget adjustment via resolution under the terms of Ordinance No. 04-2009.
3. Finds that the proposed budget provides funding for the City’s non-profit recreation partners in the Community Activities budget in Attachment A.
4. Authorizes the City Manager, or designee, to execute task orders for City Engineering Services with GHD, Inc. and any future selected contract engineering firms, consistent with the FY 2024- 25 Operating and Capital Budget for the City of Sonoma.
The foregoing Resolution was duly adopted this 19th day of June 2024, by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
John Gurney, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.2:
Agenda Item #9.2:
City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # _____-2024
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA ADOPTING THE 2024-29 FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM; AND AUTHORIZING CAPITAL PROJECT FUNDS APPROPRIATED AND UNSPENT IN FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 TO BE ROLLED INTO THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 BUDGET
WHEREAS, City staff has prepared a Capital Improvement Program, designed to serve as both a financial and project planning document; and
WHEREAS, on May 30, 2024, the proposed budget was presented for fiscal year 2024-25, including estimated revenues and recommended appropriations for operations and capital; and WHEREAS, on May 30, 2024, the City Council held a duly noticed special meeting to review, and provide opportunity for and receive public comments, regarding the proposed fiscal year 2024-25 budget, including appropriations for authorized positions by department; and WHEREAS, the City Council also desires to accommodate a process for the carryover of unspent FY 2023-24 capital project funds where work and expenditures will continue in the FY 2024-25;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Sonoma hereby:
1. Adopts the City of Sonoma 2024-29 Five-year Capital Improvement Program as summarized in the attached Exhibit A and incorporated into the FY 2024-25 Operating and Capital Budget for the City of Sonoma.
2. The Capital Project Funds Appropriated and Unspent in FY 2023-24 will be rolled into the FY 2024-25 Capital Improvement Plan Budget.
The foregoing Resolution was duly adopted this 19th day of June, 2023, by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
John Gurney, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.2:
Capital Improvement Program Projected Funding
by Project for Fiscal Years 2024-29
CIP# Project Name FY 2024-25 Request FY 2025-26 Request FY 2026-27 Request FY 2027-28 Request : ••..• ,,1,11-.-: ..... 1. ... I
BF-2 Public Works Safety and Facility Security at Corporation Yard $0 $70,000 $0 $75,000 BF-4 City Hall Emergency Power $0 $50,000 $0 $0
BF-6 Carnegie Building Repairs and Maintenance Upgrades Project $0 $0 $125,000 $0 SUBTOTAL $0 $:120,000 $:125,000 $76,000
CREEKS & DRAINAGE: Reducing Flooding and Protecting Water Quality ' I - I CD-1 Storm Water Trash Reduction Systems $0 $100,000 $0 $0 CD-3 Broadway & Leveroni Road Flood Reduction & Trash Capture Project $60,000 $300,000 $0 $0 CD-7 Storm Drain System Condition Rating $50,000 $100,000 $0 $0 SUBTOTAL $:1:10,000 $500,000 $0 $0
IPARKS: Making Life Better
P-3 Montini Preserve Fire Enhancement Project $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 $35,000 P-8 Olsen Park Improvement Project $250,166 $0 $0 $0
P-12 Sonoma Oaks Enhancements Project $92,000 $350,000 $0 $0 P-13 Fifth St West Park $0 $300,000 $0 $0
P-14 Sonoma Overlook Trail HCF Grant Project $5,000 $0 $0 $0 SUBTOTAL $382,:166 $685,000 $35,000 $35,000
T-3 Biennial Slurry Seal Projects $350,000 $0 $250,000 $0 T-4 Citywi.de Sidewalk Inspection and Repair Program $0 $50,000 $60,000 $60,000 T-5 Ongoing Pavement Rehabilitation and Water Services Replacement Projects $1,915,000 $0 $500,000 $250,000 T-6 Citywide Roadway Safety Improvement Projects $200,000 $100,000 $0 $0 T-7 Broadway (SR 12) Streetscape Enhancement $0 $0 $50,000 $50,000 SUBTOTAL $2,465,000 $:150,000 $860,000 $360,000
WATER: Providing High Quality, Dependable Water '
W-4 Replacement of Water Services with Pavement Rehab Projects $650,000 $0 $0 $0 W-8 Urban Water Management Plan and Minor Water Master Plan Update $0 $25,000 $0 $0 W-10 Water Meter System Upgrades (AMI) $300,000
SUBTOTAL $950,000 $26,000 $0 $0
FUND TOTAL $3,907,166 $1,480,000 $1,020,000 $470,000
Attachment A: Flve•Year CIP FY24·29
FY 2028-29 Requ�Total
$0 $145,000
$0 $50,000
$0 $125,000
$0 $320,000
I I - -- --
$0 $100,000
$0 $360,000
$0 $150,000
$0 $6:10,000
$35,000 $175,000
$0 $250,166
$0 $442,000
$0 $300,000
$0 $5,000
$35,000 $:1,:172,:166
$250,000 $850,000
$60,000 $230,000
$250,000 $2,915,000
$0 $300,000
$50,000 $150,000
$6:10,000 $4,445,000
I
$0 $650,000
$0 $25,000
$300,000
$0 $975,000
$645,000 $7,522,166
Agenda Item #9.2:
City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # _____-2024
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE OR AMEND CONTRACTS WITH VARIOUS SERVICE
PROVIDERS WITHIN AREAS SUCH AS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, RECREATION &
COMMUNITY SERVICES, PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION, EMERGENCY
PREPAREDNESS & HOMELESS SUPPORT, GENERAL OPERATIONS/SERVICES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 24/25
WHEREAS, the City Manager submitted a 5-year General Fund Forecast, and recommended an operating and capital budget; and
WHEREAS, the City Manager's Budget Message provides an executive summary of the proposed FY 24/25 budget; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Sonoma has reviewed the proposed final Operating Budget for FY 24/25 and Capital Improvement Program for FY 24/25 and has held a public meeting prior to adoption of the final budget; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has approved funding for FY 24/25 in the approved budget that require either new contract or contract amendments with various service providers for services to be offered starting July 1, 2024.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Sonoma that the City Manager is authorized to execute contracts or contract amendments with all vendors on the same or substantially the same terms and conditions to extend the existing contracts as outlined in Exhibit "A".
The foregoing Resolution was duly adopted this 19th day of June, 2024, by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
John Gurney, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.2:
Attachment A
NEW AGREEMENTS AND/OR AGREEMENT AMENDMENTS
VENDOR/ORGANIZATION FY24-25
AMOUNT
ACTION
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau
Building lease to use a portion of Carnegie Library for visitor services and offices.
Agreement for operations of the downtown Visitors Center operations and information services.
$1
$100,000
1-Year Agreement
3-Year Agreement
Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce
Provides economic and business development services. $125,000 3-Year Agreement
RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES
Boys & Girls Club of Sonoma Valley
Provides core recreation and community services to youth and teens, including after-school education, enrichment activities, athletic programs, prevention programs, etc. Emergency support, if needed, in terms of programming and facility use.
$60,500 3-Year Agreement
Sonoma Community Center
Provides arts, cultural, and community service activities, including operations of the historic facility, which serves as a cultural, theater, and community center. Provide emergency support, if needed, in terms of Emergency Volunteer Center and facility use.
Provides management of the City’s emergency volunteers, including emergency training, dual language programs, and quarterly newsletters to volunteers. $60,500
$15,000
3-Year Agreement
1-Year Agreement
Sonoma Ecology Center
Provides public access, maintenance, and programming for the Sonoma Garden Park, including educational programs for adults and youth, and support the City’s environmental initiatives.
$27,500 3-Year Agreement
Vintage House
Provides core recreation and community services to seniors; operates a senior center; provides enrichment, education, recreation, and exercise programs for seniors, etc. Emergency support, if needed, in terms of public information to seniors and facility use.
$44,000 3-Year Agreement
Sonoma Valley Field of Dreams
Provides maintenance and programming of baseball, softball, and soccer fields for youth and adults.
$27,500 1-Year Agreement
Sonoma Valley Health & Recreation Association
Provide funding for scholarships for youth and senior swimming programs. $25,000 3-Year Agreement:
(FY2022-2025)
PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION
Sonoma Ecology Center
Provides maintenance and management services - Montini Preserve/Sonoma Overlook Trail.
$21,269 1-Year Agreement
Sonoma Ecology Center
Provides maintenance and management services- Nathanson Oxbow and Demonstration Garden.
$17,589 1-Year Agreement
Sonoma County Transportation Authority
Fare Free Bus Program for Sonoma/Sonoma Valley Local Route 32, the “Sonoma Shuttle” in partnership with Sonoma County.
$17,500 1-Year Agreement
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & HOMELESSNESS SUPPORT
HomeFirst
Provides By-Names-List Project Management Services
Measure O Grant
$59,620 1-Year Agreement
Sonoma Overnight Support
Provides food distribution services for individuals experiencing homelessness in Sonoma Valley.
$50,000 1-Year Agreement
Homeless Action Sonoma
Provides case management services
Provides Shelter (Day) services
$100,000
$50,000
1-Year Agreement
1-Year Agreement
Two Lynchpin Road
Agenda Item #9.2:
Provides general emergency preparedness planning and training; Coordination of City’s emergency planning.
$24,000 1-Year Agreement
GENERAL OPERATIONS & SERVICES
Sonoma Valley Community Communications
Provides taping and recording of Council and Commission meetings and other special workshops /meetings.
$73,000 3-Year Agreement
Robert Smith
Provides code enforcement and City Prosecutor services for vacation rental hearings.
$60,000 1-Year Agreement
Richardson & Co.
Provides annual financial statement audit services. $49,320 1-Year Agreement Agenda Item #9.2:
City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # _____-2024
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO APPROVE THE CARRYFORWARD
OPERATIONAL FUNDS FOR ONE TIME PROJECTS APPROPRIATED AND UNSPENT IN FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 TO BE ROLLED INTO THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 BUDGET WHEREAS, the City Manager submitted a 5-year General Fund Forecast and recommended an operating and capital budget; and
WHEREAS, the City Manager's Budget Message provides an executive summary of the proposed FY 24/25 budget; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Sonoma has reviewed the proposed final Operating Budget for FY 24/25 and Capital Improvement Program for FY 24/25 and has held a public meeting prior to adoption of the final budget; and
WHEREAS, the City Council also desires to accommodate a process for the carryover of unspent FY 23/24 one time operational project funds where work and expenditures will continue in FY 24/25;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Sonoma that the City Manager is authorized to approve the carryforward operational funds for one-time projects appropriated and unspent in FY 23/24 where work and expenditures will continue in FY 24/25 outlined in Exhibit “A”.
The foregoing Resolution was duly adopted this 19th day of June, 2024, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
John Gurney, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.2:
Date Account Description Amount
6/10/2024 100-41001-604-70604 Meeting Room Update 11,820.00 6/10/2024 100-41004-347-50347 Citywide User Fee Study and Cost Allocation Plan (General Plan Update) 75,000.00 6/10/2024 100-43030-347-50347 General Plan Update 422,366.00 6/10/2024 601-64010-404-60404 DocuSign 4,640.00
6/10/2024 601-64010-404-60404 Netfile Ethics 1,800.00
6/10/2024 601-64010-404-60404 OpenGov Document Management 3,938.00 6/10/2024 100-43200-606-70606 Laserfische Cloud Enterprise Content Management System 89,325.00 Total 608,889.00
City of Sonoma
Operation Budget Carryforward FY24
Agenda Item #9.2:
City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # _____-2024
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO FUND RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
DISCRETIONARY FUNDING PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma does not have Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department as the City is a small town with a very limited budget; and WHEREAS, traditional "Recreational and Community Service Programs" for the City of Sonoma have been provided by outside non-profit organizations that fill the community's need for these important programs; and
WHEREAS, utilizing the talents, skills, networks, and resources already available in the community, the City has supported recreational and community services programs through grant funding for the past 20 plus years; and
WHEREAS, this approach has proven to be a cost effective, efficient, and flexible way to meet the changing needs of the community; and
WHEREAS, on March 5, 2018, the City Council approved new funding and policy guidelines for the City's "Recreation and Community Services Program” and entered into three-year contracts with four core recreation providers (Sonoma Community Center, Sonoma Ecology Center, Sonoma Valley Boys and Girls Club and Vintage House); and WHEREAS, on August 3, 2022, Special City Council meeting, the Council approved a revised Recreation and Community Services Program Funding and Policy Guidelines that included criteria for other Community Recreation and Community Service Providers to be added as Core Recreation and Community Services Provider.
WHEREAS, if approved it will provide funding to the 20 Local non-profits throughout the City; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Sonoma that the City Manager is authorized to fund Recreation and Community Service Programs for FY 24/25 outlined in Exhibit “A”.
The foregoing Resolution was duly adopted this 19th day of June, 2024, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
________________________________
John Gurney, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.2:
FY 2024/25
Proposed Recreation and Community Service
Discretionary Funding Program
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Sonoma Valley Girls Softball $3,000
Sonoma Valley Girls Softball Umpire Fees: Sonoma Valley Girls Softball Association's (SVGSA) mission is to ensure that every girl in the Valley who wants to participate in softball has a safe and fun environment to do so. Our vision is to continue making the league thrive, expanding the events we offer, and bringing the community together through the great game of softball. 167
Individuals
Served
Hanna Center $3,000
Hanna Center Recreation Scholarships: Hanna's new vision is to open the campus all year, providing Sonoma Valley residents with opportunities to engage in healthy activities that build connection. Funding from the City will be used to remove economic barriers to participation for Sonoma Valley residents. Prices will vary depending on length of the activity and the level of specialization, with $250 covering a basic summer camp and $750 covering the cost of participation in travel basketball.
1,000
Individuals
Served
Sonoma Valley United Soccer League $3,000
Needs-based Scholarships for Recreational Soccer league and Summer Camps:
Our needs-based scholarship program for youth soccer players provide recreational soccer league and training camps that serve over 500 Sonoma Valley youth and their families each year, of which approximately 100 families receive needs-based scholarships. Our Board of Directors, Coaches, and support personnel are Sonoma parents who serve voluntarily to make these opportunities available at the lowest possible cost to our community’s youth. 99 Individuals
Served
Sonoma Youth Lacrosse $3,000
Sonoma Youth Lacrosse Equipment and Scholarships: Sonoma Youth Lacrosse is looking to purchase new equipment for boys and girls players ages 5-14. Our equipment is available to players who cannot afford to purchase their own and includes helmets, shoulder/chest protection, elbow pads, gloves, goalie equipment, sticks, balls and much more. We also offer partial and full scholarships to those who need financial assistance with registrations and offer free clinics in the fall for those who want to come and learn how to play lacrosse. 200
Individuals
Served
Total Funding for Recreational Programs $12,000
Agenda Item #9.2:
Art Education Requests
Sonoma Conservatory of Dance $3,000
Scholarships for Sonoma Conservatory of Dance Summer Dance Camp: BECA– Ballet En Cada Alumno—is a free after-school introductory dance program for K12 students held at El Verano Elementary. Any of these underserved youth who show a desire to continue with ballet after the initial months of the program will be routed to Sonoma Conservatory of Dance for deeper instruction. Grant funds will be used for scholarships to ensure that BECA graduates, and any low-income students, have no financial or cultural barriers to the next level of their dance education.
22 Individuals
Served
Valley of the Moon Music Festival $3,000
Valley of the Moon Music Festival Free Kids and Family Concert: VMMF presents its 4th Annual Kids & Family Concert, Sunday, July 28, 2024, with acclaimed children’s music specialist Rami Vamos. Demand for VMMF’s children’s program increased from 80 in 2021 to 125 in 2023, with 75% of attendees under age 12, so the concert will move to the larger, more accessible Sebastiani Theatre. This free concert is central to VMMF’s work to remove barriers and help everyone feel welcome to classical music. VMMF works with SVUSD and ViVo to reach the most kids possible.
400
Individuals
Served
Sonoma Valley Museum of Art (SVMA) $3,000
Family Make-Ins: SVMA Family Make-Ins provide the opportunity for intergenerational audiences to experience museum exhibitions, artmaking & instruction, and cultural performances. Upcoming Make-Ins include: 1) For the Love of Music and Art—From Drumming to SVMA: In addition to artmaking, families will enjoy African drummer Cheza Nami; 2) How My Family Celebrates the Holidays: Magical Moonshine Theatre presents bi-lingual puppet theater; art projects encourage children to show how they celebrate the holidays. 600
Individuals
Served
Total Art Education Funding $9,000
Community Event Funding Requests
Sonoma Petaluma Parks Association $1,000
Children's Day at the Park: Children's Day at the Park is a free event with crafts and activities for kids, including a petting zoo. The old-fashioned crafts made by each person are taken home upon completion. This fun event has been going on for many years, held at Sonoma State Historic Park. The grant funds would be used to purchase materials and supplies for Children's Day. 100
Individuals
Served
Jack London Park Partners * Requested $3,000 $1,000
Call of the Wild Free Community Day: Support from the City of Sonoma will help offset the cost of the entrance fees that day ($10/car) allowing community members who might not otherwise get the chance to visit the park the opportunity to spend time in nature having fun with their families. This will remove a barrier for park participation. Our goal is to make the park accessible to all and this free community day will make that happen.
300
Individuals
Served
Agenda Item #9.2:
Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Fdtn.* Requested $3,000 City waives fees for the event as part of the Rec and Community Services Policy $1,000
Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival: Since 1897, the Vintage Festival has brought the community together to celebrate the annual harvest season in Sonoma Valley.
The community building event ties residents of the present to our local traditions of the past. The event allows the Vintners & Growers Foundation to provide scholarships and grants to Sonoma Valley youth, and an opportunity for other non profit organizations to raise funds.
5000
Individuals
Served
Sonoma Valley Education Foundation $3,000
2024 Red & White Ball: Funding from the City of Sonoma will help underwrite the cost of our annual event, the Red & White Ball. Since 2022, this longstanding event has been reimagined as an inclusive community event to celebrate and raise funds for our public schools. The evening will feature a picnic, live band, and a range of activities and to showcase the amazing things happening at our public schools. Affordable tickets ensure the event is accessible to all students, parents, and teachers, and community members.
2,000
Individuals
Served
La Luz Center * Requested $3,000 the City supports La Luz by waiving the Cinco de Mayo event fees.
$1,000
Community Baby Shower: Community Baby Shower La Luz is hosting a day of celebration and connection for our expecting and new moms. The event is open to all and families are welcome. Resources, networking, support services as well as, diapers, and baby items such as pop up play pens, formula, and breast pumps will be distributed. In addition, there will be presentations for healthy families, by local agencies and providers. The event takes place from Noon - 4pm in Booker Hall and is open to Sonoma Valley families.
200
Individuals
Served
Art Escape Sonoma * Requested $3,000 the City permit fees for the event are $435.
$1,000
Art Escape Community Enrichment Events: We seek support to cover city permit fees, for our second-ever fundraiser to sustain our impactful initiatives.
Additionally, we are requesting funds for our two vital community events: Día de los Muertos Celebration and Celebración Navideña/Holiday Craft Fest. These events foster cultural unity and joy, with a growing number of attendees each year.
Your support ensures vibrant community experiences, fosters unity, and recognizes the importance of visual arts in enriching our cultural heritage. 465
Individuals
Served
Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition* City staff is recommending that the funding is tied to the organization hosting the same event at Sasserini Elementary School for FY 24/25
$3,000
Safe Routes to School Program: On-Bicycle Education Programming: On-bicycle education services, specifically our 4th Grade Bicycle Skill-Safety Rodeo, to one school (likely Prestwood Elementary) in the city of Sonoma during the 2024-25 school year (date TBD, but either October 2024 or April or May 2025). Students will receive free bicycle repairs, helmet fittings & an opportunity to purchase lowcost ($5.00, subsidized by SRTS) helmets, and comprehensive on-bike safety/skill training, including learn-to-ride lessons for students in need. 50 Individuals
Served
Agenda Item #9.2:
Sonoma Valley Film Society (dba: SIFF) $3,000
Student Film Showcase at the 28th annual Sonoma International Film Festival:
28th Sonoma International Film Festival is set to run from March 25 - 30, 2025.
This renowned SIFF will partner with programs at the Sonoma Valley High School to bring filmmaking and film industry opportunities to the students in a variety of HS program from Media Arts to Culinary.
SVHS students create short films during the 2024-25 school year. The films will be screened at the Sebastiani Theatre as part of the annual SIFF. Filmmakers will speak/engage with students. Presented free of charge.
276
Individuals
Served
Total.Community.Event.Funding.Requests $14,000
Community Service Projects
FRIENDS IN SONOMA, HELPING (FISH) $3,000
Utilities: Friends in Sonoma, Helping's mission over it over 50 year history has been to help those in need in Sonoma City and Valley. Through its totally volunteer staff and donations from grantors & individuals, FISH serves the needs of people for food, clothing, medical equipment, rental assistance and utility assistance. FISH requests a grant for utility assistance of $3,000. Like the other services that FISH provides, it allows FISH clients to stay in their homes. 400
Individuals
Served
Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance $2,328
Outdoor Physical & Team Challenge for K-12 Grade Mentees: We will take 24 people to the Challenge Ropes Course on the Sonoma Developmental property.
The students and the mentors would spend half a day challenging themselves physically by conquering different obstacles, work on team building and communication skills, and leave with more confidence and self-esteem because of their achievements. By introducing the students to the outdoors and physical activity in a unique environment, we know it will have a positive lasting impact. 24 Individuals
Served
Pets Lifeline $3,000
Pet Food Pantry (PFP): Pet Food Pantry is a critical community service that provides free pet food to low-income families in Sonoma. Since our official PFP opened in March 2020 , the need has not slowed. Coupled with inflation and a variety of economic factors, such as the high cost of living, including groceries and rent, the need for free pet food has only increased. Our goal is to keep pets with their families rather than having them surrendered to the shelter. Pets Lifeline purchases the food for distribution.
1400
Individuals
Served
Sweetwater Spectrum $3,000
Sweetwater Spectrum Farm donation to Vintage House Meal Program:
Sweetwater Spectrum primarily donates to Vintage House, which supports seniors experiencing food insecurity. The donated produce is nutrient-dense microgreens harvested weekly, we grow year-round in our greenhouse. We also pick edible flowers from the garden to brighten up our salads donated to the meal program. Sweetwater Spectrum donates produce weekly to their meals program.
Last year, our weekly program donated approximately 240 pounds of produce. The grant will be used for farming materials.
60 Individuals
Served
Agenda Item #9.2:
Sonoma Valley Historical Society Inc* Requested $3,000 the City is responsible for wayfinding signs on City Property, staff is recommending funding the translation of the signs on the interior of the building. $1,500
Sonoma Valley History Museum Wayfinding and Accessibility project: The grant is for enhancing the accessibility of the Sonoma Valley History Museum in two ways. As wayfinding signage it will provide new signs for the renamed Sonoma Valley History Museum building. The funds will be used to translate the verbiage of the new permanent exhibits in the museum creating a more accessible visitor experience by providing Spanish translations for the largest non-English speaking demographic of Sonoma Valley. The Museum is free to enter. 3,000
Individuals
Served
Total.Community.Services.Funding.Requests $12,828
Total Discretionary Funding * Based on Staff recommendations - Providing Funding to the 20 Local non-profits identified above. $47,828
The projects below have been identified as either Public Works/Plaza Master Plan potential projects or too narrow in scope or the entities have already received funding.
Sonoma Valley Woman's Club Foundation $3,000
Plaza Improvement: Shade Structure: The Plaza Improvement Project aims to install shade structures over the West playground area in Sonoma Plaza, mitigating the effects of intense sunlight and soaring temperatures. By providing adequate shade, we aim to create a conducive environment for children's play, reducing the risk of overheating and sunburns.
Valley of the Moon Garden Club $3,000
GreenLinks Plaza Enhancement: Heritage Rose Gardens Preservation and Beautification Project: Our new VOMGC Plaza project, launched in January, aligns with Sonoma City Council's 2024 goals for Parks & Rec. With a dedicated volunteer team & city staff, we're preserving heritage roses, enhancing community engagement, and beautifying the park. To ensure effective visitor management and care for the site, we seek grant support for(1) stepping stones to guide interactions and (2) rose care resources for volunteers (e.g. equip,). ADA accessibility standards will guide us to ensure any paths comply.
Flowery Elementary School Parent-Teacher $3,000
Garden Project: to provide supplies in order to support the Garden at Flowery Elementary School, where kids can learn gardening and about growing vegetables and plants.
SOS $3,000
Home Delivery Meal Program: Our Home Delivery Meal Program delivers meals to homebound individuals who do not have access to a vehicle or are unable to leave their home due to illnesses or frailty. We currently run two delivery routes twice a week that deliver 464 meals per month. We have 8-10 households on our waitlist and will be adding a third delivery route, which will increase our deliveries to 536 meals monthly. This grant will offset the increased cost of food for the additional route.
Agenda Item #9.2: