Sonoma City Council
January 15, 2025

City Council:

Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
Ron Wellander, Vice Mayor
Jack Ding
Sandra Lowe
John Gurney

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

OF THE SONOMA CITY COUNCIL
City Council Chambers, 177 First Street West
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84876986131
6:00 PM Regular Meeting

ACCESSING PUBLIC MEETINGS
As a public service to the community, City Council meetings are held in-person, and viewable through a live webcast on the City’s CivicWeb Portal at https://sonomacity.civicweb.net/Portal/Video.aspx, City of Sonoma YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChZjUrg2rNLYxTgQHhFy-Tg, and televised on Comcast Cable Channel 27. Members of the public can also view the meeting via ZOOM, at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84876986131.

If a technical issue arises with Zoom video or the listening phone dial-in option, the City Council meeting will continue unless a Council Member is participating remotely pursuant to the provisions of Assembly Bill 2449.

Members of the public who wish to address the Council by providing public comments during the meeting may do so in-person in the Council Chambers at 177 First Street West, where the meeting is being publicly held. As an alternative, members of the public may also provide written public comment submitted via the City’s online Public Comment form at https://sonomacity.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx or by email to:
[email protected]
PROCESS FOR COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: There will be two opportunities for members of the public to address items not appearing on the agenda. The early public comment period, Agenda Item 1, will be limited to ten speakers. Each speaker will be allowed up to two minutes. Speakers who do not have an opportunity to speak during the first public comment section will be allowed to make their comments during the later public comment period, Agenda Item 10, provided there were more than 10 people in the first public comment section. When the Mayor announces these agenda items, please form a line to speak.

In the event a Council Member participates remotely for just cause or an emergency circumstance under Assembly Bill 2449, the City will allow for public comment through the Zoom link.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk (707) 933-2216. Notification 48 hours before the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

Be Courteous - TURN OFF your cell phones and watches while the meeting is in session.

The City Council may discuss and/or take action on any or all of the items listed on the agenda irrespective of how the items are described.

No new items will begin after 9:00pm unless a majority of the members present vote to allow the items to be heard.

Page

REGULAR MEETING

CONVENE, CALL TO ORDER & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ROLL CALL (Ding, Lowe, Gurney, Wellander, Farrar-Rivas)

1. PUBLIC HEARING

1.1: Presentation and Second Public Hearing Regarding City of Sonoma's Transition to By-District Elections (David Guhin, City Manager & Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)
RECOMMENDATION:

1. Receive the presentation on the transition to district-based elections.

2. Provide feedback and direction on the proposed election structure and the number of districts.

3. Encourage community participation through the use of the public mapping tool and attendance at future public hearings.

Agenda Report - Public Hearing #2 - By-District Elections - Pdf 6 - 37

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
At this this time members of the public may address the Council on matters not listed on this agenda, but which are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council. This public comment period will be limited to ten speakers. Each speaker will be allowed up to two minutes.

Speakers who do not have an opportunity to speak during the first public comment section will be allowed to make their comments during the later public comment period, Agenda Item 10, provided there were more than 10 people in the first public comment section. When the Mayor announces these agenda items, please form a line to speak.

Under State Law, unless otherwise permitted under the Ralph M. Brown Act, the merits of the matters presented under this item cannot be discussed or acted upon by the City Council at this time. For items appearing on the agenda, the public will be invited to make comments at the time the item comes up for Council consideration. Please begin by stating your name.

3. MEETING DEDICATIONS

4. COUNCILMEMBERS’ REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Committee Reports - Council Members are appointed to various boards and committees - local, county-wide and regional. Any updates from a council member will be shared at this time.

A list of all appointments is available on our City Website for easy reference.

Council Members may also make appointments to city commissions at this time.

5. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

6. CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS

7. PRESENTATIONS

7.1: Presentation by Sonoma County Water Agency
Water Transmission System Projects Presentation
38 - 52

8. CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
All items listed on the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and will be acted upon by a single motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless members of the Council or staff request specific items to be removed for separate action.

8.1: Waive further reading and Authorize Introduction and/or Adoption of

Ordinances by Title Only. (Standard procedural action - no backup information provided)

8.2: Accept the Minutes from the Special Meeting of December 18, 2024, and the Regular Meeting of December 18, 2024 (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk) RECOMMENDATION: Accept the minutes.

Agenda Report - 12/18/24 Special & Regular City Council Meeting Minutes - Pdf
53 - 57

8.3: Adopt a Resolution Adopting City of Sonoma Standard Plan No. 119 - SolarPowered/Wireless Communication Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon System and Square Pole Installation (Mike Berger, Public Works Director) RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution.

Agenda Report - Standard Plans Update - Pdf
58 - 79

8.4: Adopt a Resolution to (a) Accept the City’s Annual Report and Findings Regarding Development Impact Fees as Required by the Mitigation Fee Act and the Quimby Act for Fiscal Year 2023-24; (b) Approve the Reauthorization of the Intended Use of Retained Funds Collected for Improvements that Remain Unspent for More than Five Years (Prapti Aryal, Finance Director & Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution.

Agenda Report - AB1600 & Quimby Act - Pdf
80 - 91

8.5: Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of Sonoma as Successor Agency Approving the FY 25-26 Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule [ROPS] for the Period July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026 (Prapti Aryal, Finance Director) RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution.

Agenda Report - FY25-26 Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) - Pdf
92 - 97

8.6: Adopt an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Chapters 19.41 – Two-Unit Residential Development and Chapter 19.72 – Parcel Maps For Urban Lot Splits and Finding this Action is Not a Project under Division 13 (Commencing With Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the ordinance.

Agenda Report - SB9 Ordinance Adoption - Pdf
98 - 134

8.7: Accept the Expenditure Report for the Month of December 2024 (Prapti Aryal, Finance Director)
RECOMMENDATION: Accept the report.

Agenda Report - Expenditure Report - December 2024 - Pdf 135 - 137

8.8: Adopt an Ordinance Amending Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to Align with the Revised Public Art Policy (Sarah Tracy, Senior Management Anaylst/PIO)
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the ordinance.

Agenda Report - Adoption of Public Art Ordinance Amendment - Pdf 138 - 144

8.9: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Small Enterprise Agreement for Local Government Cloud-Based Geographic Information Systems Software and Support with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. and Directing the City Manager to Amend the Fiscal Year 24-25 Budget by Increasing the Management Information Services Fund Budget by $2,920 (Chris Pegg, Public Works Operations Manager) 145 - 158

RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the resolution.

Agenda Report - Small Enterprise Agreement with ESRI, Inc. - Pdf

9. PUBLIC HEARING

9.1: Discussion, Consideration, and Possible Action to Introduce an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 19.88.020 (Notice of Hearing), and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director) RECOMMENDATION: Introduce the Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 19.88.020 (Notice of Hearing), and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines.

Agenda Report - Hearing Notice Amendment - Pdf
159 - 171

9.2: Discussion, Consideration, and Possible Action to Introduce an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 10.52.20, Curb Markings to Indicate No Stopping and Parking Regulations, and Repealing Municipal Code Section 10.48.160 and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines (Mike Berger, Public Works Director & Ashley Cotter, Public Works Administrative & Project Manager)
RECOMMENDATION:

1. Introduce an ordinance amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section

10.52.20, Curb Markings to Indicate No Stopping and Parking Regulations, and Repealing Municipal Code Chapter 10.48.160 and finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines

2. Approve green curb installation locations
Agenda Report - Curb Markings Ordinance Introduction - Pdf 172 - 178

9.3: Discussion, Consideration and Possible Action to Introduce an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code, Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations, Sections 5.04.110, 5.04.200, 5.04.290, and 5.08.075 (Alicia Formato, Accounting Technician)
RECOMMENDATION: Introduce the Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations, Sections 5.04.110, 5.04.200,

5.04.290, and 5.08.075.

Agenda Report - Business Licenses Municipal Code Amendment - Pdf 179 - 184

10. REGULAR CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
(Matters requiring discussion and/or action by the City Council)

10.1: Selection of the 2025 City of Sonoma Alcalde (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk) RECOMMENDATION: Receive and ratify the nomination of the 2025 Alcalde from Mayor Farrar-Rivas.

Agenda Report - Alcalde Selection - Pdf
185 - 190

10.2: Presentation and Discussion, Consideration, and Possible Action to Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Approving the Active Transportation Plan and Finding this Action is Exempt from Further Environmental Review Under the General Rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of 191 - 280

Sonoma Approving the Active Transportation Plan and finding this action is exempt from further environmental review under the General Rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines section 15061(b)(3).

Agenda Report - Active Transportation Plan Approval - Pdf

11. SECOND PUBLIC COMMENT (ONLY REQUIRED IF PUBLIC SPEAKERS REMAIN FROM ITEM 2.0)
At this this time members of the public who did not have the opportunity to speak during the early comment period may address the Council on matters not listed on this agenda, but which are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Council. Each speaker will be allowed up to two minutes. Please form a line to speak.

Under State Law, unless otherwise permitted under the Ralph M. Brown Act, the merits of the matters presented under this item cannot be discussed or acted upon by the City Council at this time. For items appearing on the agenda, the public will be invited to make comments at the time the item comes up for Council consideration. Please begin by stating your name.

12. ADJOURNMENT
I do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing agenda was posted as legally required. Monique Saviez Burns, Deputy City Clerk
*********************************************************************************************************************************** Copies of all staff reports and documents subject to disclosure that relate to any item of business referred to on the agenda are usually available for public inspection the Wednesday before each regularly scheduled meeting at City Hall, located at No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma CA. Any documents subject to disclosure that are provided to all, or a majority of all, of the members of the City Council regarding any item on this agenda after the agenda has been distributed will be made available for inspection at the City Clerk’s office, No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma CA during regular business hours. If you challenge the action of the City Council in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described on the agenda or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at or prior to the public hearing.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk (707) 933-2216. Notification 48 hours before the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

City of Sonoma's Commission and Committee Roster: 2024 Commission _ Committees Roster 12.19.2024 Appointments to Commission/Committees: The Council may establish and make appointments to a Council committee (made up of two Council Members) with respect to any item appearing on this agenda.

Closed Session: If action is taken during a Closed Session meeting that is required to be reported out at this meeting, the Council will return to Open Session and report out immediately. However, if the Council is unable to do so due to time constraints, it will report out at the immediately following Regular Council Meeting under "REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION".

Motion for Consideration: A Council Member voting with the majority on any item appearing on this agenda may move for reconsideration of that vote provided the motion is in conformance with the rules adopted by the Council governing such motions.

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Administration
Staff Contact
David Guhin, City Manager, Rebekah Barr,
MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item Title
Presentation and Second Public Hearing Regarding City of Sonoma's Transition to By-District Elections
Summary
At its Special City Council meeting on December 4, 2024, the Sonoma City Council adopted Resolution #98-2024, initiating the transition from an "at-large" election system—where all registered voters in the City vote for all Council Members, regardless of residence—to a "district-based" system. Under the new system, voters in each district will elect a Council Member who resides within that district.

Although there is no evidence suggesting that Sonoma’s current election system violates the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) or any other law, the City has chosen to transition voluntarily. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential legal risks, similar to challenges faced by other cities across California.

The resolution not only declared the City's intent to transition to by-district elections but also included a timeline and authorized the retention of a professional demographer to guide the City through the process. Following a review of three proposals, the City Manager selected Redistricting Partners to assist with this effort.

Public Engagement Process
The CVRA establishes a structure for public engagement, requiring five public hearings:

1. Two hearings before any draft maps are drawn to gather public input.

2. Two hearings after draft maps are published to consider public feedback and refine the maps.

3. A final hearing to adopt a map that has been made public at least seven days prior to adoption.

Redistricting Partners is collaborating with the City to conduct presentations, gather and document public input, and utilize these hearings to determine initial criteria for draft maps as well as amend maps based on public feedback.

The timeline for these actions is as follows:
 December 18, 2024 (5:00 PM): Special Meeting for the first public hearing what districting is and how it works (City Council Chambers). (COMPLETED)  January 15, 2025 (6:00 PM): Second public hearing to gather feedback on election structure, use of mapping tools, and public engagement on communities of interest.  February 11, 2025: Publication of draft district maps for public review on the City's website, including the proposed sequence of elections.
 February 19, 2025: Third public hearing to review the draft maps published February 11, 2025, and discuss feedback.
 March 3, 2025: Fourth public hearing for the City Council to select a preferred district Agenda Item #1.1:

map.
 March 19, 2025: City Council adoption of the ordinance to implement district-based elections.

Key Topics for Discussion at the January 15 Public Meeting The January 15, 2025, meeting will focus on three key topics related to the transition:

1. Recap of the First Public Meeting: A summary of the initial public meeting held on December 18, 2024, which included a "Redistricting 101" presentation to provide an overview of the process.

2. Discussion on Election Structure: A discussion and potential direction from the City Council regarding the structure of the district-based elections, including the number of districts the City should create.

3. Launch of the Public Mapping Tool: An introduction and demonstration of the public mapping tool, designed to facilitate community input on redistricting by allowing residents to propose and submit their own district maps.

Next Steps
City staff and Redistricting Partners will continue to engage the public through scheduled hearings and other outreach efforts to ensure transparency and inclusivity in the transition process. The City remains committed to adopting a district-based election system that reflects community input and complies with all legal requirements.

Recommended Council Action
Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Receive the presentation on the transition to district-based elections.

2. Provide feedback and direction on the proposed election structure and the number of districts.

3. Encourage community participation through the use of the public mapping tool and attendance at future public hearings.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
There is no financial impact resulting from this action.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Sonoma Community Outreach Meeting #2
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #1.1:

Community Outreach
January 15, 2025
Agenda Item #1.1:

Agenda
Things we will cover:
• What is Districting
• What is the CVRA
• Public Hearing Schedule
• Traditional Districting/Redistricting Principles
• Communities of Interest
• How to Get Involved
• Sonoma’s population data
• Discussion on number of election-districts
• Districtr Tutorial
Agenda Item #1.1:

What is Districting
Definition
Districting is the initial process of creating election district boundaries.

These boundaries determine:
• Eligibility to run for office – must live within boundaries to qualify for election.
• Who votes in the election – only residents within the electiondistrict may vote for their council member.

Agenda Item #1.1:

What is Districting
Definition
Districting is the initial process of creating election district boundaries. This does not impact services.

These boundaries do not determine:
• How the district decides to govern. The city council can still work to achieve goals that benefit the district as a whole rather than the interests of any single election-district area. • How services or relationships between the district and the public are managed.

Agenda Item #1.1:

What is the CVRA?
Definition
The California Voting Rights Act takes the principles of the Federal Voting Rights Act and expands it regarding
districted elections in two key ways:
• While Federal law uses “majority minority” districts as a standard for vulnerability, the CVRA only requires “ability to influence.” • The CVRA requires that plaintiffs get full reimbursement for legal fees associated with any successful challenge. These can be lessened or eliminated if the district follows a strict and prompt process for districting, call “safe harbor provisions.”
Agenda Item #1.1:

What is the CVRA?
Safe Harbor Provisions
The safe harbor provisions of the CVRA requires
jurisdictions to follow a minimum of:
• Five public meetings
• First two meetings are devoted to educating the
public and gathering public testimony
• Must be completed within 90 days
Agenda Item #1.1:

City of Sonoma
First three meetings devoted to community of interest
information gathering and education on districting process Proposed Schedule:

December 18, 2024 Public Hearing #1 (Pre-map)
January 15, 2025 Public Hearing #2 (Pre-map)
February 11, 2025 First draft of maps are published
February 19, 2025 Public Hearing #3 (Post-map)
March 3, 2025 Public Hearing #4 (Post-map)
March 19, 2025 Public Hearing #5: Adoption of Map
7 Agenda Item #1.1:

Hearing purposes
Public Hearing Structure
Hearing #1 Public Hearing with information about the districting process, descriptions of the data and mapping tools,
introduction of ways the community can provide input.

Hearing #2 Repeat of first hearing, with additional emphasis on receiving community of interest testimony for the purposes of driving map creation.

Hearing #3 Presentation of maps of new potential districted boundaries produced by the demographer and published seven days in advance. These maps are expected to drive additional
feedback from the public and City Council.

Hearing #4 Public Hearing with revised map(s). Additional public input regarding the revised map(s) and concluding with direction from the city council on a final map.

Hearing #5 Public Hearing to adopt final map
Agenda Item #1.1:

Required Districting Criteria
There are a number of criteria that are required under the FAIR MAPS Act (ranked):
• Relatively equal size - people, not citizens
• Contiguous – districts should not hop/jump
• Maintain “communities of interest”
• Easily identifiable and understandable lines,
following natural and man-made boundaries
• Keep districts compact – appearance/function
Traditional redistricting principles used throughout the country and written into state law
Agenda Item #1.1:

Equal Population
Utilizing the US Census Decennial File
What is “equal” population has been a
key subject in districting litigation.
• Population Equality is based on
“People” not citizens or voters or
other metrics.
• 10% deviation presumed equal.

Other agencies / states have
different plan deviation
requirements.

Agenda Item #1.1:

Required Districting Criteria
There are a number of criteria that are required under the FAIR MAPS Act (ranked):
• Relatively equal size - people, not citizens
• Contiguous – districts should not hop/jump
• Maintain “communities of interest”
• Easily identifiable and understandable lines,
following natural and man-made boundaries
• Keep districts compact – appearance/function
Traditional redistricting principles used throughout the country and written into state law
Agenda Item #1.1:

Contiguity
Determining what is “contiguous”
Agenda Item #1.1:

Contiguity
Determining what is “contiguity”
Railroad tracks act as a barrier,
physically separating the city
with only three thoroughfares
between District 5 and the rest
of the city.

Agenda Item #1.1:

Required Districting Criteria
There are a number of criteria that are required under the FAIR MAPS Act (ranked):
• Relatively equal size - people, not citizens
• Contiguous – districts should not hop/jump
• Maintain “communities of interest”
• Easily identifiable and understandable lines,
following natural and man-made boundaries
• Keep districts compact – appearance/function
Traditional redistricting principles used throughout the country and written into state law
Agenda Item #1.1:

Required Districting Criteria
There are a number of criteria that are required under the FAIR MAPS Act (ranked):
• Relatively equal size - people, not citizens
• Contiguous – districts should not hop/jump
• Maintain “communities of interest”
• Easily identifiable and understandable lines,
following natural and man-made boundaries
• Keep districts compact – appearance/function
Traditional redistricting principles used throughout the country and written into state law
Agenda Item #1.1:

Compactness
Determining what is “compact”
Agenda Item #1.1:

Required Districting Criteria
There are a number of criteria that are required under the FAIR MAPS Act (ranked):
• Relatively equal size - people, not citizens
• Contiguous – districts should not hop/jump
• Maintain “communities of interest”
• Easily identifiable and understandable lines,
following natural and man-made boundaries
• Keep districts compact – appearance/function
Traditional redistricting principles used throughout the country and written into state law
Agenda Item #1.1:

Communities of Interest
A “community of interest” is a population that shares common social or economic interests that should be included within a single election district for purposes of its effective and fair representation.

As defined by the FAIR MAPS Act
Characteristics include:
• shared public policy
concerns
• public safety
• public health
• environment
• housing
• transportation
• cultural districts
• shared
socioeconomic
characteristics
• shared histories
Agenda Item #1.1:

Communities of Interest
Communities of interest are the building blocks of districts.

A community of interest includes ethnic and language minorities and other groups.
• Subjective
• Open-ended to be as inclusive as possible
Communities covered by the Voting Rights Act
• Latinos
• Asians
• African Americans
While communities of interest may include race, it cannot be the predominant factor in drawing district boundaries.

Bringing like people together for representation
Agenda Item #1.1:

Communities of Interest
• Historical communities
• Economic interests
• Racial composition
• Ethnic Areas
• Cultural amenities
• Religious facilities
• Immigrant communities
• Languages spoken
• Geographic features
• Neighborhoods
• Environmental Justice/ Heath
Equity
• Economic opportunity zones
• Tourism Areas
• School attendance areas
• Outdoor recreation areas
• Communities defined by natural
resource features
• Downtown / Urban
• Rural or Agricultural
• Homeowner or Renters
• Creative arts communities
• Media markets
• Many, many more
Bringing like people together for representation
Agenda Item #1.1:

What is NOT a Community of Interest
The FAIR MAPS Act explicitly prohibits these groups from being considered as communities of interest
• Political party affiliation
• Incumbents
• Political candidates
It also is hard, in districting to truly consider:
• Groups of similarly minded people who do not share a similar geographic location.
• Communities of Interest that are citywide.

Preventing a Districting from Becoming a Gerrymander
Agenda Item #1.1:

Communities of Interest
Three Critical Questions in Defining YOUR Community
• Does the community have a shared culture, characteristics or bond?
• Is the community geographic in nature? Is the community able to be mapped?
• How would you describe the community’s relationship with the jurisdiction, and how is your community affected by the policy decisions made by the elected officials?
Agenda Item #1.1:

How to Get Involved
Submitting Your COI Form
Input can be provided in public hearings or using our
“Community of Interest Survey Form” on the City’s website.

Agenda Item #1.1:

How to Get Involved
The City is looking for two different types of maps from the public.

Maps from the public
Community of Interest Districted Plans Based on 2020 Data Draw and document your
community.

Draw your preferred districted map.

Let us know where your community
is using specific street boundaries so
we can avoid splitting it.

You can draw 1-5 election districts in
accordance with how you think best
represents the City.

Communities are better able to
advocate and vote for their best
interests when they remain
together.

Maps drawn by the public often
reflect logical boundaries based on
the community, and many cities and
districts prefer selecting a public
map.

Agenda Item #1.1:

Communities of Interest
The City of Sonoma is using Districtr as a public mapping tool to allow residents to draw their own Communities of Interest and districted maps.

Drawing YOUR Communities of Interest
Agenda Item #1.1:

To stay up-to-date on the process, visit the City’s website.

Website: https://www.sonomacity.org/transition-to-district-basedelections Agenda Item #1.1:

27 Agenda Item #1.1:

28 Agenda Item #1.1:

Discussion on Number of Election-Districts
5 Election-Districts 4 Election Districts (at-large
mayor)
• Default system
• Maintains rotating mayor
• Provides the most protection
from CVRA lawsuits
• May increase diversity of those
elected and diversity of areas
represented within the City
Cities that have election districts
and rotating mayor:
• Davis
• Santa Rosa
• Los Altos
• Foster City
• Represents greater change
• Voters directly elect mayor
• There has yet to be a CVRA
lawsuit filed against a districted
city with an at-large mayor
• May split less communities
and/or neighborhoods
Cities with election districts and atlarge mayor:
• Napa
• Petaluma (had already elected
mayor at-large)
• Windsor
• Vacaville
Agenda Item #1.1:

Agenda Item #1.1:

sonomawater.org
Clean. Reliable. Essential. Every Day.

Water Transmission
System Projects
Kent Gylfe
Director of Engineering
[email protected]
Agenda Item #7.1:

Water is delivered from river
to communities
• Water Transmission
System aqueducts
deliver water to Santa
Rosa, Rohnert Park,
Cotati, Petaluma,
Windsor, Sonoma Valley
and Marin
• Serving homes and
businesses to a
population over 600,00
Agenda Item #7.1:

Capital Improvement Projects
O&M Projects
Planning Efforts
Agenda Item #7.1:

Occidental Rd Well #3
Drilling and Activation
• Drilling project completed in April
2024
• Topside design delayed due to well
development – advertised
December 2024
• Substantial completion in October
2025
• Plan, permit, test and implement
recharge components internally
(2026)
Santa Rosa Plain Wells Drought Resiliency
Project awarded $6.9M State Drought
Relief Grant
Agenda Item #7.1:

Sebastopol Rd Well
Activation
• Design completed and project
advertised in Nov 2023
• Construction in progress with
underground nearly complete
• Electrical equipt. delivery
anticipated Feb 2025
• Well conditioning and cycling
Spring/Summer 2025
• ASR pilot study through Oct 2025
Agenda Item #7.1:

Kastania Tank Recoat
• Project Goals
• Recoat interior/exterior of tank
• Replace cathodic protection
• Seismic analysis/retrofits
• Modifications to tank
appurtenances
• Completed and back in
service September 2024
• Fun fact – Kastania tank
required roughly 6,850
gallons of paint to recoat –
enough to paint an average
1500 ft2 home 250 times
Agenda Item #7.1:

Cotati #3 Recoat and
Seismic Project
• 18MG tank – largest in system
• Bids received October 2024
• Recoat interior/exterior of tank
• Cathodic protection
• Seismic retrofit of foundation
• Modifications to tank appurtenances
• Award January 2025
• Construction anticipated Mar
2025 – Feb 2026
Agenda Item #7.1:

Santa Rosa/Cotati Aqueduct
Cathodic Protection
• Project split in 2 phases based on ease
of R/W and permitting
• Phase 1
• 11 total rectifier/anode well sites
• 11 CP stations
• Phase 2 –
• 20 total rectifier/anode well sites
• 39 CP stations
• Significant coordination with PG&E
• Phase 1 design progressing with
target advertise Mar 2025
• Phase 2 design to follow with target
construction 2026
Agenda Item #7.1:

Wilfred Booster Electrical
Upgrade
• Project includes
• Replace electrical switchgear
building and components
• Add 2nd pump set and piping for
reliability/resiliency
• Capable of pumping north and south
• Electrical switchgear
prepurchase in June 2024
• Advertise scheduled for May
2025
Agenda Item #7.1:

Designs in Progress
• Bennett Valley Fault Crossing
• Seismic resiliency pipeline project
• 30% design complete with target advertise
Summer 2025
• Treatment Modernization Upgrades
• Preliminary feasibility completed Oct 2024
• Multi-phase, multi-year project with Phase 1
design kicking off
• Wohler Demuth
• Emergency storage facility
• Design kicked off with target advertise
Summer 2026
• Kawana-Ralphine-SBS Pipeline - Ph 1
• In process of finalizing scope with consultant
for phase 1 design, environmental, and rightof-way
• Next phase will utilize recent easement
acquisition through Southeast Greenway
Agenda Item #7.1:

Tank Washout Inspections,
Visual Inspections, and
Condition Assessments
• Washout Inspections
• Ralphine 1, 2, 3 & 4
• Eldridge 1
• Sonoma 1&2
• Annadel 1 & 2
• Kawana 1
• Cotati 2 (in progress)
• Kawana 2 (FY 25/26)
• Eldridge 2 (FY 25/26)
Agenda Item #7.1:

Agenda Item #7.1:

Comprehensive Master Plan
• Task 1 complete:
• Water System Baseline
• FY24/25:
• Task 2 – Water Demand
Forecasting
• Task 3 – Basis of Cost
Information
• Task 4 – Methodology for
Project Prioritization
• FY25/26:
• Task 5 – Generate Project
Groupings
• FY26/27:
• Task 6 – Compile Water System
Master Plan
Agenda Item #7.1:

Agenda Item #7.1:

sonomawater.org
Questions?
Agenda Item #7.1:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Administration
Staff Contact
Monique Saviez Burns, Deputy City Clerk
Agenda Item Title
Accept the Minutes from the Special Meeting of December 18, 2024, and the Regular Meeting of December 18, 2024.

Summary
The minutes from the Special Meeting and Regular Meeting of December 18, 2024, have been prepared and reviewed for accuracy. These minutes serve as the official record of the proceedings and decisions made during these meetings. Review and approval of meeting minutes are essential to maintaining accurate and transparent records.

Recommended Council Action
Accept the minutes.

Alternative Actions
Request specific revisions be made and brought back to subsequent meeting for approval.

Financial Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with the approval of these minutes.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments

12.18.2024 Special Meeting Minutes

12.18.2024 Regular Meeting Minutes
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #8.2:

City Council:

John Gurney, Mayor
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Vice Mayor
Jack Ding
Ron Wellander
Sandra Lowe

SPECIAL MINUTES OF

THE SONOMA CITY COUNCIL
City Council Chambers
177 First Street West
Wednesday, December 18, 2024

5:00 PM Special Meeting
Special Meeting Minutes, December 18, 2024
5:00 P.M. – SPECIAL MEETING

CONVENE & CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Gurney called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Mayor Gurney, Vice Mayor Farrar-Rivas, Council Member Wellander, Council Member Lowe, Council Member Ding

1. CALL TO ORDER

2. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION
Item 2.1: Presentation and Public Hearing Regarding City of Sonoma's Transition to By-District Elections (David Guhin, City Manager and Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk) Action: Conducted a public hearing regarding the City of Sonoma’s Transition to By-District Election.

Open Public Hearing: 5:54 pm
Public Comment: Peter Alexander and Madolyn Agrimonti
Closed Public Hearing: 5:59 pm

3. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Gurney adjourned the meeting at 6:00 p.m.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing minutes were duly and regularly received at a regular meeting of the Sonoma City Council on the 15th day of January 2025. ___________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.2:

City Council:

Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
Ron Wellander, Vice Mayor
Sandra Lowe
John Gurney
Jack Ding

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

OF THE SONOMA CITY COUNCIL
City Council Chambers
177 First Street West
Wednesday, December 18, 2024

6:00 PM Regular Meeting
Regular Meeting Minutes, December 18, 2024
6:00 P.M. – REGULAR MEETING

CONVENE, CALL TO ORDER, & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Gurney called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Council Member Wellander, Council Member Lowe, Vice Mayor Farrar-Rivas, Mayor Gurney, and Council Member Ding

REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
There was no Closed Session held.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Lowe, seconded by Vice Mayor Farrar-Rivas, to approve the agenda as presented. Approved by consensus of the Council.

1. PRESENTATIONS
Item 1.1: "Celebrate Sonoma" - Presentation of Certificate of Recognition in Honor of the Sonoma Valley High School Dragons Football Team
Item 1.2: Proclamation of Congratulations to the Sonoma Sister Cities Chambolle-Musigny Committee On the Occasion of Their Sixty-Fifth Anniversary

2. CERTIFICATION OF ELECTION & REORGANIZATION
Item 2.1: Adopt a Resolution Reciting the Facts of the General Municipal Election held on November 5, 2024, Declaring the Result and Such Other Matters as Required by Law (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)
Action: Adopted as Resolution 99-2024.

Motion by Vice Mayor Farrar-Rivas, seconded by Council Member Lowe, to Adopt a Resolution Reciting the Facts of the General Municipal Election held on November 5, 2024, Declaring the Result and Such Other Matters as Required by Law. Motion carried unanimously.

Item 2.2: Oath of Office of Newly Re-Elected Council Members Jack Ding and Sandra Lowe (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)
Action: Newly Re-elected Council Members took their Oath of Office.

Item 2.3: City Council Reorganization

1. Recognition of Outgoing Mayor

2. Selection of Mayor and Vice Mayor for 2025
Action: Council Member Patricia Farrar-Rivas was selected as Mayor and Ron Wellander was selected as Vice Mayor.

Public Comment: Robert Demler
Council Member Lowe nominated Vice Mayor Farrar-Rivas for Mayor.

Motion carried unanimously.

Council Member Ding nominated Council Member Wellander for Vice Mayor.

Motion carried unanimously.

3. SCHEDULED 15 MINUTE RECESS

4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Madolyn Agrimonti provided public comment.

5. MEETING DEDICATIONS
None.

6. COUNCIL MEMBERS’ REPORTS AND COMMENTS
Agenda Item #8.2:

Regular Meeting Minutes, December 18, 2024
Council Member Ding attended a Zero Waste Sonoma meeting on November 21, 2024. He also, on behalf of the City of Sonoma, participated in the Ukraine Counsel General Visit.

Council Member Lowe attended a Sonoma County Transportation Authority/Regional Protection Agency meeting on December 9, 2024.

Mayor Farrar-Rivas attended a Sonoma Clean Power Board meeting on December 5, 2024, as well as a Sonoma Valley Community Advisory Commission (SVCAC) meeting on December 17, 2024.

Council Member Gurney attended a County Supervisor’s meeting where he was able to present a key and provide recognition to outgoing Supervisor Susan Gorin.

7. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Community Development Director Gates provided an update to the Council regarding the new installation of the City Council Chambers Rotating Art Program, which features photos of 2024 Treasure Artist Victor Ferrer Grupo Folklorico Quetzalen in Sonoma Valley performers. She continued to remind the public that City Hall Offices will be closed for the holiday break from December 24, 2024, to January 2, 2025. Ms. Gates notified Council that the City partnered with the County of Sonoma to activate the Emergency Warming Center at the City’s Emergency Homeless Shelter on December 8th and 9th, which provided a warm, safe space for five individuals during the fridged temperatures. She went on to announce that the City has partnered with HDL Companies to launch the HDL Business Support Center to streamline business license applications and renewals.

More information is available on the City’s website. Ms. Gates also invited the community to participate in the upcoming Council Goal Settings workshop being held on January 30, 2025, from 9 am to 5 pm in the Blue Oak Room at The Lodge in Sonoma. The public comment period will take place at 10:20 a.m. Additionally, there will also be a General Plan Community Meeting at 6 pm on January 30, 2025, at the Vintage House. Ms. Gates reminded everyone that as more rain is on the way, the City’s self-serve sandbag filling station in the Depot Park parking lot will be open. Lastly, Community Development Director Gates shared that the Alcalde nomination period for the 2025 Alcalde closes at 5 pm on January 3, 2025; more information is available on the website.

8. CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS
None.

9. CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
Motion by Council Member Lowe, seconded by Council Member Ding, to approve the Consent Calendar as presented. Motion carried unanimously.

Item 9.1: Waive further reading and Authorize Introduction and/or Adoption of Ordinances by Title Only. (Standard procedural action - no backup information provided)
Item 9.2: Accept the Minutes from the Regular Meeting of November 20, 2024, and the Special Meeting of December 4, 2024 (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk) Action: Minutes were accepted.

Item 9.3: Receive the 2025 Annual City Meeting Calendar (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk) Action: Adopted as Resolution 103-2024.

Item 9.4: Adopt an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Sections 19.54.040 through

19.54.070 and Sections 19.54.090 through 19.54.100 (Planning Permit Approval or Disapproval), and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines (Diane Levine, Associate Planner)
Action: Adopted as Ordinance 09-2024.

Item 9.5: Accept the Expenditure Report for the Month of November 2024 (Prapti Aryal, Finance Director)
Action: The Expenditure Report was accepted.

Item 9.6: 1. A Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Agreements with the California Department of Tax & Fee Administration for Implementation of a Local Transactions and Use Tax; and

2. A Resolution Authorizing Examination of Sales or Transactions and Use Tax Records; and

3. A Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Amendment to the Existing Contract with Hinderliter De Llamas and Associates (HdL Companies) to Include Management Services for Tax Measure T
Action: Adopted as Resolution 100-2024, Resolution 101-2024, and Resolution 102-2024.

11. REGULAR CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
Agenda Item #8.2:

Regular Meeting Minutes, December 18, 2024
Item 11.3: Consideration of the Updated Public Art Policy, Including the Expansion of Temporary Installations and Introduction an Ordinance Amending Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to Align with the Revised Policy (Sarah Tracy, Senior Management Analyst/PIO)
Action: Adopted as Resolution 104-2024, and the Ordinance was introduced.

Motion by Vice Mayor Wellander, seconded by Council Member Ding, to Approve the updated Public Art Policy and Introduce an Ordinance Amending Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to Align with the Revised Policy. Motion carried unanimously.

10. PUBLIC HEARING
Item 10.1: Public Hearing to Introduce an Ordinance amending Sonoma Municipal Code Chapters

19.41 – Two-Unit Residential Development and Chapter 19.72 – Parcel Maps For Urban Lot Splits and finding this action is not a Project under Division 13 (Commencing With Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code (Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development Director)
Action: Ordinance was introduced.

Open Public Hearing: 7:56 p.m.

Public Comments: None.

Closed Public Hearing: 7:56 p.m.

Motion by Council Member Ding, seconded by Council Member Lowe, to Introduce an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Chapters 19.41 – Two-Unit Residential Development and Chapter

19.72 – Parcel Maps For Urban Lot Splits and finding this action is not a Project under Division 13 (Commencing With Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code. Motion carried unanimously.

Item 10.2: IF NEEDED - Presentation and Public Hearing Regarding City of Sonoma's Transition to By-District Elections (David Guhin, City Manager and Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)
Action: The item was not needed.

11. REGULAR CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
Item 11.1: A Resolution Approving the Conditions for Operations of Sonoma's Tuesday Night Market 2025 Season and Vendor Stall Fee Pricing
Action: Adopted as Resolution 105-2024.

Motion by Council Member Ding, seconded by Council Member Lowe, to Adopt a Resolution Approving the Conditions for Operations of Sonoma’s Tuesday Night Market 2025 Season and Vendor Stall Fee Pricing. Motion carried unanimously.

Item 11.2: Appointment of a Youth Member to the Planning Commission (Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk)
Action: Isabel Pedersen was appointed as a Youth Member to the Planning Commission.

Motion by Council Member Gurney, seconded by Council Member Ding, to appoint Isabel Pedersen as a Youth Member to the Planning Commission. Motion carried unanimously.

12. SECOND COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

13. ADJOURN
Mayor Farrar-Rivas adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m.

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing minutes were duly and regularly received at a regular meeting of the Sonoma City Council on the 15th of January 2025.
____________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.2:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Public Works
Staff Contact
Ashley Cotter, PW Admin & Project Manager
Agenda Item Title
Adopt a Resolution Adopting City of Sonoma Standard Plan No. 119 - SolarPowered/Wireless Communication Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon System and Square Pole Installation
Summary
Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) are a traffic calming tool that the City prefers to utilize at busy intersections to highlight pedestrian crossings. The City of Sonoma has installed RRFBs as part of the Broadway Streetscape project in conjunction with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) within or immediately adjacent to Caltrans Right of Way (ROW). The RRFB pedestrian crossings on Broadway were installed in accordance with Caltrans Standard Plans and Specifications. The City will continue to install RRFB pedestrian crossings in the City of Sonoma ROW and Sonoma City Standard Plan No. 119 will be utilized for many of these installations. This standard plan was developed because the City does not currently have a standard for installing RRFBs in City of Sonoma ROW. The Public Works Department worked with GHD, Inc. (Contract City Engineer) to develop structural calculations for the attached new RRFB Standard.

This resolution will adopt this standard, which will provide the City with a construction detail for RRFB installations on future projects not located in Caltrans ROW. This will be incorporated into the City Standard Plans as Sonoma City Standard Plan No. 119. The City Standards are revisited periodically to update them as needed. The current City of Sonoma Standard Plans was updated on August 17, 2015.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt the resolution.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
None at this time.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Agenda Item #8.3:

Attachments
Standard Plans Resolution
Exhibit A_City of Sonoma Standard 119
Structural Calculations
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #8.3:

City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # ______-2025

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA ADOPTING CITY STANDARD PLAN 119: SOLAR POWERED/WIRELESS COMMUNICATION

RECTANGULAR RAPID FLASHING BEACON SYSTEM & SQUARE POLE
INSTALLATION.

WHEREAS, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) are a traffic calming tool that the City utilizes to highlight busy pedestrian crossings; and WHEREAS, the City has installed several RRFBs as part of the Broadway Streetscape project in conjunction with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), but has no standard for installations on City-owned Right of Way; and
WHEREAS, the City will continue to install RRFB pedestrian crossings in City of Sonoma Right of Way and Sonoma City Standard Plan No. 119 will be utilized for many of these installations; and
WHEREAS, this standard plan was developed because the City does not currently have a standard for installing RRFBs in the City of Sonoma Right of Way; and WHEREAS, the City Council may modify design, construction or legal specifications for particular projects on a case-by-case basis approved by the City Engineer; and NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Sonoma does hereby adopt City Standard Plan 119: Solar Powered/Wireless Communication Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon System & Square Pole Installation (Exhibit A).

PASSED, RESOLVED, AND ADOPTED, at a Regular Meeting of the City of Sonoma City Council on this 15th day of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
______________________________________
Patricia Farr-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST
______________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.3:

EXHIBIT A
Agenda Item #8.3:

Standard Plan #119
Calculation
City of Sonoma
24 December 2024
The Power of Commitment

Agenda Item #8.3:

Pole Calculations

1. Wind Demand Load
Agenda Item #8.3:

Agenda Item #8.3:

Agenda Item #8.3:

Agenda Item #8.3:

Agenda Item #8.3:

2. Footing Capacity
Restrained Condition on Ground Surface
Note: Case 1 - Capacity for 100 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Note: Case 1 - Capacity for 150 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Note: Case 2 - Capacity for 100 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Note: Case 2 - Capacity for 150 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Given the demand and dimensions of Case 1, the footing embedment height needs to have a height of 4.375ft for 150psf of passive pressure or 5ft for 100psf of passive pressure. The volume shows how much concrete is needed depending on the diameter of the footing.

For Case 2, the footing embedment height needs to have a height of 3.625ft for 150psf of passive pressure or 4.125ft for 100psf of passive pressure.

Agenda Item #8.3:

Unrestrained Condition on Ground Surface
Note: Case 1 - Capacity for 100 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Note: Case 1 - Capacity for 150 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Note: Case 2 - Capacity for 100 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Note: Case 2 - Capacity for 150 allowable passive pressure Agenda Item #8.3:

Given the demand and dimensions of Case 1, the footing embedment height needs to have a height of 6.125ft for 150psf of passive pressure or 7.125ft for 100psf of passive pressure.

The volume shows how much concrete is needed depending on the diameter of the footing.

For Case 2, the footing embedment height needs to have a height of 5ft for 150psf of passive pressure or 5.75ft for 100psf of passive pressure.

Agenda Item #8.3:

Concrete Weight vs. Shear Force
Agenda Item #8.3:

Agenda Item #8.3:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Finance
Staff Contact
Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development
Director, Prapti Aryal, Finance Director
Agenda Item Title
Adopt a Resolution to (a) Accept the City’s annual report and findings regarding development impact fees as required by the Mitigation Fee Act and the Quimby Act for fiscal year 2023-24; (b) Approve the reauthorization of the intended use of retained funds collected for improvements that remain unpent for more than five years.

Summary
The City of Sonoma imposes Development Impact Fees (DIFs) on new developments to fund critical public improvements and amenities, including fire protection, traffic signals, bike lanes, and sidewalks. These fees play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing infrastructure to meet the demands of new growth.

To ensure transparency and accountability, California law requires that DIFs and Quimby Fees be separately accounted for, with interest income deposited into individual accounts and restricted for the specific purposes for which the fees were originally collected. This report fulfills the City’s statutory obligation to provide an annual accounting of these fees in compliance with the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq., AB 1600) and the Quimby Act (Government Code Section 66477).

The Mitigation Fee Act (AB 1600) governs the collection and use of DIFs. It mandates that local agencies prepare an annual report detailing the collection, expenditure, and purpose of these fees, ensuring they are used exclusively to fund public facilities necessitated by new development.

Similarly, the Quimby Act regulates fees collected for the acquisition, development, and improvement of parkland. It requires that funds be committed or spent within five years of collection to address the recreational needs of a growing community and ensures accountability through proper accounting and reporting.

Annual Reporting Requirements

1. AB 1600 Reporting Requirements
California Government Code Section 66000 et seq. outlines the following reporting obligations:

1. Purpose and Use of Fees (Gov. Code § 66001):
o Identify the purpose of the fees and the specific public facilities to be funded. o Ensure that fees are used solely for their intended purposes.

2. Segregated Accounting (Gov. Code § 66006(a)):
o DIFs must be deposited into distinct accounts for each fee category.

3. Annual Reporting (Gov. Code § 66006(b)):

The annual report must include:
o A brief description of the fee, including its amount or rate. o Beginning and ending balances for each account.

Agenda Item #8.4:

o Fee revenue, interest earned, and expenditures.
o A description of any interfund transfers or loans.

4. Five-Year Findings (Gov. Code § 66001(d)):
o If funds remain unspent for more than five years, the City must:
 Identify the purpose of the fees and the public improvement they will fund.
 Provide a reasonable plan for their expenditure.

5. Public Access (Gov. Code § 66006(b)(2)):
o The annual report must be made available to the public within 180 days of the fiscal year-end, and then presented at a public meeting at least 15 days later.

The report at issue here was made publicly available on December 20, 2024.

2. Quimby Act Reporting Requirements
The Quimby Act (Gov. Code § 66477) establishes additional reporting obligations for fees collected for parkland acquisition and improvement:

1. Purpose and Use of Fees:
o Quimby Fees must be used exclusively for the acquisition, development, or improvement of parkland.

2. Segregated Accounting (Gov. Code § 66477(a)(3)):
o Fees must be deposited into a separate account specifically for parkland purposes.

3. Five-Year Findings:
o Funds collected under the Quimby Act must be spent or committed to a specific project within five years of receipt.
o If funds remain unspent, the City must:
 Make findings identifying the purpose of the fees and the planned parkland improvements.
 Refund unspent fees to the current property owners if findings are not made.

4. Public Access:
o The report on Quimby Fees must be included in the annual development fee report and presented in a public forum.

A detailed summary of the financial activity for both Development Impact Fees and Quimby Fees collected during fiscal year 2023-24 is attached to this report.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt the resolution.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
The Development Impact Fee program is a self-funded mechanism ensuring that new development bears the financial responsibility for infrastructure impacts. There is no impact on the City’s General Fund.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Agenda Item #8.4:

Not Applicable
Attachments
AB1600 & Quimby Resolution
Local-Agency-Developer-Improvement-Fee-Report-FY-23-24
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #8.4:

City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # __________ - 2025

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA ACCEPTING THE

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINDINGS REGARDING DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES AS

REQUIRED BY THE MITIGATION FEE ACT AND THE QUIMBY ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-24, AND APPROVING THE REAUTHORIZATION OF RETAINED FUNDS FOR

IMPROVEMENTS THAT REMAIN UNSPENT FOR MORE THAN FIVE YEARS WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma imposes Development Impact Fees (DIFs) on new development to fund critical public improvements and amenities, including fire protection, traffic signals, bike lanes, and sidewalks, pursuant to the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq., AB 1600); and
WHEREAS, the City also collects fees pursuant to the Quimby Act (Government Code Section 66477) for the acquisition, development, and improvement of parkland to address the recreational needs of a growing community; and
WHEREAS, both the Mitigation Fee Act and the Quimby Act require the City to prepare an annual report providing a detailed accounting of fees collected, interest earned, expenditures, and fund balances to ensure transparency and accountability; and WHEREAS, the annual report for fiscal year 2023-24 demonstrates that all Development Impact Fees and Quimby Fees have been collected, accounted for, and expended in compliance with applicable laws, and any remaining balances have been allocated for their intended purposes; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with Government Code Section 66001(d), the City must make findings for the continued retention of fees collected but unspent for more than five years, including identifying the purpose of the fees and providing a reasonable plan for their expenditure; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the annual Development Impact Fee and Quimby Fee Report for fiscal year 2023-24, as prepared by staff, and finds it to be in compliance with the requirements of the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq.) and the Quimby Act (Government Code Section 66477).

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Sonoma as follows:

1. The City Council hereby accepts the Annual Development Impact Fee and Quimby Fee Report for fiscal year 2023-24, including the findings required by the Mitigation Fee Act (Government Code Sections 66000 et seq.) and the Quimby Act (Government Code Section 66477).

2. The City Council approves the reauthorization of the intended use of retained funds collected for improvements that remain unspent for more than five years, as outlined in the report, and directs staff to ensure that such funds are expended in accordance with the identified purposes and planned timelines.

Agenda Item #8.4:

3. The City Council directs staff to make the report publicly available and ensure compliance with the public access and reporting requirements of Government Code Section 66006(b)(2).

PASSED, RESOLVED, AND ADOPTED, at a Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma on this 15th day of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.4:

CITY OF SONOMA
Local Agency Developer Improvement Fee
Report: AB1600 & Quimby Act
Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2024
Prepared by: Finance Department
Agenda Item #8.4:

City of Sonoma
Annual AB 1600 and Quimby Fee Report
The Annual AB 1600 and Quimby Fee Report for the City of Sonoma provides a detailed account of the collection, use, and management of development impact fees, including Affordable Housing Impact Fees, Residential Impact Fees, Fire Impact Fees, and Quimby Fees, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. These fees are crucial for ensuring that new developments contribute equitably to the cost of public infrastructure, services, and recreational facilities, thereby maintaining a high quality of life for Sonoma residents and supporting sustainable community growth.

AB 1600 Reporting Overview
AB 1600, also known as the Mitigation Fee Act, is codified in California Government Code §§ 66000-66025. It governs the establishment and use of Development Impact Fees (DIFs) imposed on new development to offset the cost of infrastructure and public facilities necessitated by growth. These fees must be justified through nexus studies, ensuring a clear relationship between the fees collected and the impacts of development.

State law requires local agencies to prepare an annual report documenting the collection and expenditure of these fees and to demonstrate compliance with the provisions of Government Code §§ 66006(b) and 66001(d). The report must be reviewed at a regularly scheduled public meeting of the City Council and made publicly accessible. The City Council will review this report at its meeting on January 15, 2025.

Quimby Fee Reporting Overview
The Quimby Act, authorized under California Government Code § 66477 and implemented through Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 16.10, ensures that new developments contribute to the creation or enhancement of parks and recreational facilities. Developers are required to either dedicate land or pay in-lieu fees to meet parkland standards. The funds generated by Quimby Fees support projects that align with the City’s General Plan policies, ensuring adequate parkland and recreational services for a growing community.

Development Impact Fees in Sonoma
This report details the balances, collections, and expenditures for the following fees:
• Affordable Housing Impact Fee: Supports affordable housing programs, particularly for low- and moderate-income households, and aligns with the City’s Housing Element goals.
• Residential Impact Fee: Addresses the financial impacts of residential growth on infrastructure and services, ensuring equity and sustainability. • Fire Impact Fee: Funds the maintenance and enhancement of fire protection services, including station expansion and acquisition of essential equipment.

Agenda Item #8.4:

Quimby Fees in Sonoma
This report details the balances, collections, and expenditures for the following fee:
• Quimby Fee: Supports the creation and enhancement of parks and recreational facilities, ensuring the City meets parkland standards and preserves the community’s quality of life.

Key Financial Summary (FY 2023-24)
Fee Type Starting
Balance
Fees
Collected
Interest
Earned
Expenditures Ending
Balance
Affordable
Housing Fee
$124,002.06 $7,452.98 $5,808.45 - $137,263.49
Residential
Impact Fee
$15,456.00 $25,614.38 $132.77 - $41,203.15
Fire Impact
Fee
$1,720.00 $103,780.20 $4,502.20 - $110,002.40
Quimby Fee $661,751.62 $229,710.40 $11,059.13 $10,170.02 $892,351.13 Quimby Fee Improvement Projects
The following Quimby Fee projects are reserved and allocated to improve parks and recreational infrastructure within the City of Sonoma:
• Pinelli Park Project (P-7): $32,755.00 (Completion within 5 years) • Olsen Park Improvement (P-8): $230,166.00 (Completion within 5 years) • Fifth Street West Park (P-13): $359,430.13 (Completion within 5 years) • Depot Park Improvement (P-9): $200,000.00 (Completion within 5 years) • Sonoma Overlook Trail Rehab (P-14): $70,000.00 (Completion within 5 years) Transparency and Accountability
This report ensures compliance with state law, provides transparency in the use of public funds, and demonstrates the City’s commitment to responsibly managing resources for public benefit. The detailed financial transaction for the fees is attached to this report.

Agenda Item #8.4:

Affordable Housing Impact Fee
Document Establishing Fees Reso 12-2020
Account 732-00000-000-30120
Formula for Determing Fee Reso 12-2020
07/01/2023 Starting Balance Fees Collected Interest Earned Available Balance Actual Expenditure or Adjustment 06/30/2024 Ending Balance 91,164.42 7,452.98 5,808.45 104,425.85 - 104,425.85
The purpose of the Affordable Housing Impact Fee in the City of Sonoma is to generate revenue dedicated to supporting affordable housing programs. These fees, levied on various non-residential developments, are designed to address the housing demand created by new non-residential development, particularly for low- and moderateincome households.

Revenue from these fees are deposited into the City's Affordable Housing Trust Fund (Reso. 18-2019) to create a larger pool of funds to be used to:

1. Enable the development and preservation of affordable housing units.

2. Provide affordable housing loan and grant programs.

3. Cover administrative costs for affordable housing programs and projects.

The impact fees adopted by Resolution 12-2020 are based on a nexus study that determined the relationship between new non-residential development and the resulting need for affordable housing, ensuring compliance with the Mitigation Fee Act (AB 1600). The fees are calculated for new non-residential development, including additions, by multiplying the number of gross square feet by the per square foot dollar amount identified by Resolution 12-2020 applicable to the type of nonresidential development which is proposed.

No projects have been identified for the use of these funds at this time. However, the City regularly evaluates potential applications of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund revenue during the budgeting process for capital projects. The City plans to review this fee as part of the FY 2025-26 budget process to earmark these funds for a qualifying project within the next two to three years. There were no interfund transfers or refunds recorded for FY 2023-24.

Agenda Item #8.4:

Impact Fee Residential
Document Establishing Fees Reso 47-1986
Account 301-00000-000-30110
Formula for Determing Fee Reso 47-1986
07/01/2023 Starting Balance Fees Collected Interest Earned Available Balance Actual Expenditure or Adjustment 06/30/2024 Ending Balance $15,456.00 $25,614.38 132.77 41,203.15 - 41,203.15
The purposes of the residential impact fee established by Resolution #47-86 for the City of Sonoma are to:

1. Ensure new residential developments contribute their "fair share" to the cost of city services and infrastructure, maintaining equity with existing properties.

2. Address the financial impacts of residential growth as identified in the Cost Revenue Impact Study, including future capital project needs, revenues, and expenses.

3. Mitigate the burden on the City by funding necessary services and resources for new residents and properties.

4. Reflect the increased cost of construction, as indicated by a 5% rise in the Engineering Cost Index since May 1983.

5. Support the City's ability to provide essential infrastructure and services in a sustainable and equitable manner.

New residential developments are charged $966 per residential unit and was determined to be the fair share by the impact study prepared in 1986. This fee has not changed since that date. Fees are to be expended on infrastructure projects. There were no interfund transfers or refunds of the impact fees collected in FY 2023-24.

Agenda Item #8.4:

Fire Impact Fee
Document Establishing Fees SMC 3.40
Account 798-00000-000-30112
Formula for Determing Fee Reso 09-2021
07/01/2023 Starting Balance Fees Collected Interest Earned Available Balance Actual Expenditure or Adjustment 06/30/2024 Ending Balance $26,595.17 $103,780.20 4,502.20 134,877.57 - 134,877.57 The Fire Impact Fee for the City of Sonoma ensures that new developments contribute equitably to the costs of maintaining and enhancing fire protection services. This fee helps maintain adequate emergency response levels, prevents the financial burden from falling solely on existing residents, and complies with California’s Mitigation Fee Act by demonstrating a clear connection between new development and the need for expanded services.

The fee’s purpose is to fund the one-time costs to expand the Sonoma Valley Fire District's facilities, apparatus, and equipment needed to maintain its existing level of service. The term “facilities” or “fire system facilities” represent land, stations, and other buildings and the term apparatus refers to engines, ambulances, and other vehicles. They cannot be used for personnel costs but may include the costs attributable to the increased demand for public facilities reasonably related to the development project in order to refurbish existing facilities to maintain the existing level of service.

The fees are calculated for new development by multiplying the number of gross square feet by the per square foot dollar amount identified by SMC Chapter 3.40 and by Resolution 09-2021 applicable to the type of development which is proposed.

No projects have been identified for the use of these funds in FY 2023-24. There were no interfund transfers or refunds for Fire Impact Fee in FY 2023-24. This fee will be evaluated during FY 2025-26 budget process to fund allowable fire system facilities.

Agenda Item #8.4:

Quimby Fee Fund 314
Document Establishing Fees SMC 16.10
Account 314-00000-000-30110
Formula for Determing Fee SMC 16.10
07/01/2023 Starting Balance Fees Collected Interest Earned Available Balance Actual Expenditure or Adjustment 06/30/2024 Ending Balance $ 229,710.40 661,751.62 $ 11,059.13 $ 902,521.15 $ 10,170.02 $ 892,351.13 Pinelli Park Project P-7 Total Project Cost 32,755.00 $ More than 5 Years - $
Less than 5 Years 32,755.00 $
Olsen Park Improvement P-8 Total Project Cost 230,166.00 $ More than 5 Years - $
Less than 5 Years 230,166.00 $
Fifth Street West Park P-13 Total Project Cost 359,430.13 $ More than 5 Years - $
Less than 5 Years 359,430.13 $
Depot Park Improvement P-9 Total Project Cost 200,000.00 $ More than 5 Years - $
Less than 5 Years 200,000.00 $
Sonoma Overlook Trail Rehab P-14 Total Project Cost 70,000.00 $ More than 5 Years - $
Less than 5 Years 70,000.00 $
Remaining Balance
Remaining Balance
Remaining Balance
Remaining Balance
Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 16.10 ensures that new developments contribute to the creation or enhancement of parks and recreational facilities by requiring developers to either dedicate land or pay in-lieu fees. This aligns with the California Quimby Act, which aims to maintain a standard of up to five acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. The primary purposes of this code are to ensure adequate parkland for growing communities, equitably distribute the costs of public amenities, implement the city's General Plan policies, and preserve the community's quality of life by supporting recreational and public infrastructure needs. Prior to FY 2019-2020 no Quimby funds were collected. All funds collected have been committed/reserved for Parks project in the chart below.

SMC Section 16.10.30
C. Amount of Parkland Required . The amount of acreage required to be dedicated by a residential subdivider for park and recreational purposes shall be based upon the number of dwelling units expected in the subdivision. The required dedication shall be computed using the following formula:

X =.005(UP)
Where:

X = Amount of parkland required, in acres.

U = Total number of approved dwelling units in the subdivision.

P = The projected average number of residents per dwelling unit in the proposed subdivision, as determined by the city planner.

ACTION: Reserved for identified improvement projects.
$ 892,351.13
Remaining Balance
Agenda Item #8.4:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Finance
Staff Contact
Prapti Aryal, Finance Director
Agenda Item Title
Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of Sonoma as Successor Agency Approving the FY 25-26 Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule [ROPS] for the Period July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

Summary
As required by legislation ABX1 26 and subsequent legislation with the dissolution of redevelopment agencies, the Recognized Obligation Schedule [ROPS] must be prepared and approved annually. The ROPS is a permanent schedule of obligations that must be approved by the Successor Agency, Oversight Board, and the State Department of Finance. After approval by the Department of Finance, the County Auditor-Controller will allocate property tax increment (RPTTF – Redevelopment Property Tax Trust Fund) to successor agencies to pay debts listed on the ROPS and the remaining is distributed to the appropriate property tax agencies in the county.

The ROPS under consideration covers the period July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026 (FY 25-26) and contain updates to all previously approved projects and expenditures.

Once the ROPS is approved by the City Council as the Successor Agency, it will be presented to the Sonoma County Consolidated Oversight Board (Oversight Board) on January 24, 2025. Once approved by the Oversight Board, it is submitted to the Department of Finance, the State Controller’s Office, and the County Auditor-Controller by February 1.

Sonoma has had its own Oversight Board historically, but based on State law, all oversight boards within each county were consolidated effective January 1, 2019.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt the resolution.

Alternative Actions
N/A
Financial Impact
All obligations are covered by the Redevelopment Property Tax Trust Fund (RPPTF) to pay for statutory and contractual pass-through payments.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Agenda Item #8.5:

Exempt
Not Applicable
Action Requested
Attachments
FY2025-26 ROPS Resolution
Exhibit A: ROPS 25-26
Exhibit B: ROPS 25-26 Admin Budget
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #8.5:

City of Sonoma
SA RESOLUTION #______ - 2025

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AS THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF SONOMA APPROVING THE RECOGNIZED OBLIGATION PAYMENT SCHEDULE FOR THE PERIOD JULY 1, 2025, THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026
WHEREAS, pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 34177(o), the City Council as the Successor Agency is required to review and approve the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule prepared by the Successor Agency covering a one-year period; and WHEREAS, the Successor Agency to the dissolved Community Development Agency of the City of Sonoma is requested to approve the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule [FY 25-26] (“ROPS”) for the one-year period July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the ROPS will be presented to the Sonoma County Consolidated Oversight Board for review and approval on January 24, 2025, and submitted by February 1, 2025 to the Department of Finance, the State Controller’s office and the County Auditor-Controller.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Successor Agency as follows:

SECTION 1. The Successor Agency hereby approves the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for the period July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, as set forth in Exhibit “A” to this Resolution and by this reference incorporated herein.

SECTION 2. The Successor Agency hereby approves the administrative allowance for the Successor Agency, for the period covered July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, as set forth in Exhibit “B” to the Resolution and by this reference incorporated herein.

SECTION 3. The City Manager (as the person appointed by action of the Oversight Board at its meeting of April 4, 2012, to be the designated contract person to the Department of Finance), shall transmit the approved Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule to the Sonoma County Consolidated Oversight Board, Department of Finance, State Controller, and County Auditor-Controller in compliance with the requirements of Part 1.85 of Division 24 of the California Health and Safety Code. The staff of the Successor Agency shall take such other and further actions and sign such other and further documents as appropriate to effectuate the intent of this Resolution and to implement the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule approved hereby on behalf of the Successor Agency.

SECTION 4. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Resolution is for any reason held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such a decision Agenda Item #8.5:

shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Resolution. The Successor Agency hereby declares that it would have adopted this Resolution and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase be declared invalid.

PASSED, RESOLVED, AND ADOPTED, at a duly noticed public meeting of the Successor Agency to the former Community Development Agency of the City of Sonoma held on the 15th day of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.5:

Sonoma City ROPS 2025-26 Annual
Item # Obligation Name Obligation Type
Agreement
Execution Date
Agreement
Termination Date
Total Outstanding
Obligation
Total Requested
Funding
19 2010 SERAF Loan Payment due to Housing Fund SERAF/ERAF 2/10/2010 6/30/2030 580,903.00 121,738.00 26 Emergency/Homeless Shelter [Housing] Professional Services 3/7/2011 6/30/2030 150,000.00 30,000.00 49 Administrative Allowance for Successor Agency Admin Costs 7/1/2012 6/30/2036 2,750,000.00 250,000.00 70 Successor Agency Audit Costs Professional Services 6/23/2014 6/30/2037 72,000.00 6,000.00 71 2015 TAB Refunding Bonds Issued After 6/27/12 10/15/2015 12/1/2033 9,143,205.00 1,123,750.00 73 Continuing Disclosure Services Professional Services 2/1/2017 6/30/2026 36,000.00 6,500.00 77 Trustee Fees Bonds Issued After 12/31/10 1/26/2017 12/1/2036 117,600.00 3,700.00 78 Refunding Tax Allocation Bonds, Series 2021 Bonds Issued After 12/31/10 11/3/2021 12/1/2036 12,239,371.00 1,051,119.00 TOTAL 25,089,079.00 2,592,807.00

EXHIBIT A
Agenda Item #8.5:

EXHIBIT
B
Successor Agency of Former City of Sonoma Community Development Agency Proposed Administrative BudgetJuly 1, 202
5‐ June 30, 202
6 Description Period A Period B TotalEmployee/ Consultant Costs/Finance/City Manager/ Legal Costs 125,000 125,000 250,000 Agenda Item #8.5:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Community Development
Department
Staff Contact
Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development
Director
Agenda Item Title
Adopt an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Chapters 19.41 – Two-Unit Residential Development and Chapter 19.72 – Parcel Maps For Urban Lot Splits and Finding this Action is Not a Project under Division 13 (Commencing With Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code
Summary
On September 16, 2021, SB9 was signed by Governor Newsom and effective January 1, 2022. This bill requires a proposed housing development containing up to two (2) residential units within a single-family residential zone to be considered ministerially, without discretionary review or hearing, if the proposed housing development meets certain requirements. It also requires a local jurisdiction to ministerially approve a parcel map for an urban lot split in a single-family residential zone to create two independent lots that may be sold separately so long as each resulting lot is at least 1,200 square feet and are approximately the same size as each other. To be considered ministerially, without discretionary review or hearing, the project must meet certain objective requirements. Since SB9 requires ministerial review processes, the approval of SB9 projects is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

On December 15, 2021, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 13-2021 pertaining to development regulations for urban lot splits and two-unit residential development in singlefamily zones as allowed under SB9. In March 2022, California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) released guidance on the implementation of SB9. The HCD SB 9 Fact Sheet states, in relevant part, that it is “for informational purposes only and is not intended to implement or interpret SB 9.” However, they are commenting on SB 9 ordinances consistent with the Fact Sheet as seen in the attached letter to Temple City.

Since then, multiple meetings have been held to discuss adoption of a Regular Ordinance at the Planning Commission and City Council. On June 18, 2024 (link to Agenda and Video) and August 22, 2024 (link to Agenda and Video) staff restarted the discussion on the ordinance to implement SB9. At that meeting staff provided an overview of the Senate Bill, Department of Housing and Community Development Guidance and questions for the Planning Commission to help guide development of a new ordinance. Since that Planning Commission meeting the Governor signed Senate Bill 450 (attached) which provides further direction on implementation of SB 9. Staff provided a draft ordinance to implement both bills as SB 450 will go into effect on January 1, 2025 which was discussed at the Planning Commission meeting on October 24, 2024 (link to Agenda and Video). Planning Commission discussed the Ordinance and provided further direction to make additional changes that would simplify the ordinance and reference applicable code sections instead of reiterating standards that may change over time. On November 21, 2024 (link to Agenda and Video) Planning Commission adopted a Resolution recommending City Council approve the proposed Ordinance.

Agenda Item #8.6:

On December 18, 2024, City Council introduced the Ordinance.

Overview of Senate Bill 9 as Amended by Senate Bill 450 Two Unit Development Project
SB9 requires ministerial approval of up to two (2) 800-square foot residential units (“Two-Unit Residential Development”) on any property that is zoned single-family residential if the project meets specific requirements. In Sonoma, there are only two zoning districts which only permit single-family residences, R-R (R-R (Residential – Rural) district and R-HS (Residential – Hillside) district. However, based on the discussion at Planning Commission, the R-L (Residential – Low Density) district and R-S (Residential – Sonoma) district will be included because single-family use is the primary purpose of those zones.

Requirements to qualify for SB9 include:
 Site is not a listed historic landmark, or located within a listed historic district (state/local);
 Parcel is located within an urbanized area or urban cluster;  Parcel meets location requirements of Government Code § 65913.4(a)(6)(b)-(k) (see Location Restrictions discussion below);
 Project would not alter or demolish deed-restricted affordable housing, rent-controlled housing, housing that invoked the Ellis Act in the last 15 years, or housing occupied by a tenant in the last three (3) years; and
 Project would not demolish more than 25 percent of the existing exterior walls, unless either: (a) the local agency allows otherwise; or (b) the site has not been occupied by a tenant in the last three (3) years. Removed by SB 450.

Urban Lot Split
SB9 also provides for the subdivision of a parcel in a single-family residential zone through an “Urban Lot Split” with a ministerial process if it meets specific requirements including:
 Lot split results in two (2) approximately equal-sized lots (60/40 split max);  Each new lot is at least 1,200 square feet; requires minimum 2,400-square foot lot or 3,000 square feet if 60/40 split;
 Lot split was not established through a prior SB9 lot split;  Neither the owner nor “any person acting in concert with the owner” has previously subdivided an adjacent parcel through an SB9 lot split; and SB9 allows a local agency to impose objective zoning and design standards as long as those standards would not have the effect of physically precluding construction of up to two (2) primary units on each resulting parcel through an urban lot split or physically precluding the construction of two (2) primary units from being at least 800 square feet in floor area. Gov’t Code §65852.21(b)(2). SB9 does not override any private land use restriction imposed by covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). None of the units created under SB9 may be used for short-term rentals of 30 days or less. SB 450 further clarifies that local jurisdictions cannot impose any objective zoning standards, objective subdivision standards, and/or objective design standards that are more restrictive than the underlying zone.

A local agency may not require dedication of land or off-site improvements such as sidewalk, curb, and gutter improvements as a condition of approval of the subdivision under an SB9 urban lot split. In addition, a local agency may not require the correction of existing, nonconforming zoning conditions as a condition of approving an urban lot split and an urban lot split may result in the creation of a nonconformity as it relates to setbacks.

Agenda Item #8.6:

SB 450 also modified the required finding to deny a project by removing physical environment from consideration. The City may deny a proposed housing development project if the building official makes a written finding, based upon a preponderance of the evidence, that the proposed housing development project would have a specific, adverse impact upon public health and safety as defined by GSC 65589.5(d)(2) and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact. Inconsistency with the zoning ordinance or general plan do not constitute an adverse impact to public health of safety. In addition, SB 450 states that complete applications must be approved or denied within 60 days.

Location Restrictions
Senate Bill 9 requires that parcels meet certain locational requirements to be eligible for a two-unit residential development. Development is not allowed to occur on sites specified in subparagraphs (B) to (K) of Government Code Section 65913.4(a)(6). These include wetlands; high or very high fire hazard severity zones as indicated on maps adopted by the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, unless sites that have adopted fire hazard mitigation measures pursuant to existing building standards or state fire mitigation measures applicable to the development; hazardous waste sites; earthquake fault zones; 100-year flood hazard areas or floodways as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), unless specific requirements are met; and conservation and habitat areas.

Proposed Ordinance
Based on SB 450, HCD and ABAG guidance, and Planning Commission discussion, staff has drafted a proposed ordinance (attached) for consideration and discussion by the City Council.

The proposed ordinance includes track changes (underline for new text, strikethrough for removed text) for Chapter 19.41 Two Unit Development and 19.72 Urban Lot Split.

Environmental Review
Any ordinance implementing SB 9 is exempt from the provisions of CEQA pursuant to Government Code Sections 65852.21(j) and 66411.7(n), because the adoption of an ordinance to implement SB9 shall not be considered a project under Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt the ordinance.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
Not applicable.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Agenda Item #8.6:

Not Applicable
Attachments
Ordinance - SB9 Implementation
EXHIBIT A - SMC Chapter 19.41 Two Units Residential Development Nov 2024 EXHIBIT B - SMC Chapter 19.72 Urban Lot splits Nov 2024 Alignment with Council Goals:

Not Applicable
Agenda Item #8.6:

City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE #_____ - 2025
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SONOMA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTERS 19.41 – TWOUNIT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT AND CHAPTER 19.72 – PARCEL MAPS FOR URBAN LOT SPLITS AND FINDING THIS ACTION IS NOT A PROJECT UNDER DIVISION 13 (COMMENCING WITH SECTION 21000) OF THE PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE WHEREAS, on September 16, 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill 9 (“SB9”), entitled the “California Home Act”. Among other provisions, this bill adds Sections 65852.21 and 66411.7 to the Government Code and became effective on January 1, 2022; and WHEREAS, SB9 requires cities and counties to ministerially approve a parcel map for an urban lot split and/or a proposed housing development containing a maximum of two (2) residential units within a single-family residential zone, if the two-unit or subdivision project meets certain statutory criteria; and
WHEREAS, state law allows a local agency to adopt an ordinance to implement the provisions in SB9; and
WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma has implemented land use policies based on the City’s General Plan, which provide an overall vision for the community and balance important community needs, and the City seeks to ensure that SB9 projects are consistent with those policies; and
WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma adopted Urgency Ordinance 13-2021 adding Chapter

19.41 and Chapter 19.72 to implement SB9 Two Unit Development and Urban Lot Split provisions; and
WHEREAS, on September 19, 2024, Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill 450 (“SB 450”), which amends SB9; and
WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma desires to amend Chapter 19.41 and Chapter 19.72 to be consistent with SB 450; and
WHEREAS, adoption of this Ordinance is consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of Sonoma General Plan, would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city, and is internally consistent with other applicable provisions of the City’s development code for the reasons expressed in this Ordinance, the accompanying staff reports, and other substantial evidence presented; and WHEREAS, adoption of this Ordinance is not a Project subject to the requirements of the CEQA pursuant to Government Code sections 65852.21(j) and 66411.7(n); and WHEREAS, the proposed Ordinance was reviewed by the Planning Commission at a duly noticed public hearing on October 24, 2024, and November 21, 2024; and WHEREAS, the proposed Ordinance was introduced by the Sonoma City Council on the 15th of January 2025; and
Agenda Item #8.6:

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. RECITALS
The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the City Council.

SECTION 2. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENTS
The Sonoma Municipal Code Chapter 19.41 and Chapter 19.72 are hereby amended as shown in Exhibit A and Exhibit B, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.

SECTION 3. Findings for Development Code Amendments.

Pursuant to Section 19.86.070(B) of the Sonoma Municipal Code:

A. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goal, policies, and actions of the General Plan;
The City of Sonoma Development Code carries out the policies and implementation measures of the General Plan and State Law. Consistency between Sections of the Development Code and State Law ensure accuracy of the Development Code review process and therefore the amendments are consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of the General Plan.

B. The proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city;
The proposed amendment is to amend the implementing ordinance for Senate Bill 9 for Two Unit Development and Urban Lot Split. Therefore the proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city.

C. Comply with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as described in Section 4 below; and
Government Code 65852.21 (j) and 66411.7(n) exempt implementation ordinances for Senate Bill 9 therefore CEQA does not apply.

D. The proposed amendment is internally consistent with other applicable provisions of this development code.

The purpose of the amendments is to create consistency with applicable provisions of the development code and state law for Two Unit Development and Urban Lot Splits to improve clarity for staff, applicants, and residents.

SECTION 4. California Environmental Quality Act.

This Ordinance is not a project subject to the requirements of CEQA pursuant to Government Code 65852.21 (j) and 66411.7(n), because the adoption of an ordinance to Agenda Item #8.6:

implement SB9 shall not be considered a project under Division 13 (commencing with Section 21000) of the Public Resources Code.

SECTION 5. Severability.

If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date.

This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 7. Publication.

This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

SECTION 8. This Ordinance Prevails Where There is Conflict.

To the extent that this Ordinance conflicts with any other provision in the Sonoma Municipal Code or city ordinance (urgency or otherwise), policy or regulation, this Ordinance will control.

Introduced and first read at a Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 18th day of December 2024.

Final passage and adoption by the City Council of the City of Sonoma was at a meeting held on the 15th of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
State of California )
County of Sonoma )
City of Sonoma )
Agenda Item #8.6:

I, Rebekah, Barr, City Clerk of the City of Sonoma, do hereby certify that the foregoing ordinance was adopted on the 15th of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.6:

EXHIBIT A
Chapter 19.41 TWO-UNIT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN SINGLE-FAMILY ZONES

19.41.010 Purpose and applicability land use, zoning and density.

A. The intent of this chapter is to is to establish objective standards and regulations to govern the development of qualified Senate Bill 9 development projects on residentially zoned properties within the City of Sonoma. provide the opportunity for the development of two residential units on one legal parcel in the following residential zoning districts in the city, consistent with state law and local regulations: R-R (Residential – Rural) district, R-L (Residential – Low Density) district, R-S (Residential – Sonoma) district, and R-HS (Residential – Hillside) district. The regulations are established to implement the requirements under California Government Code Sections 65852.21. In the event of an inconsistency between this chapter and Government Code Section 65852.21, Government Code Section 65852.21 shall prevail.

B. Two-Unit residential developments in single family zones shall be located, developed, and used in compliance with this Chapter. Two-unit residential developments are a permitted residential use only on parcels zoned R-R (Residential – Rural) district, R-L (Residential – Low Density) district, R-S (Residential – Sonoma) district, or R-HS (Residential – Hillside) district.

Two-unit residential developments are not subject to the density requirements of the Sonoma General Plan or this code applicable to properties zoned R-R (Residential – Rural) district, R-L (Residential – Low Density) district, R-S (Residential – Sonoma) district, or R-HS (Residential – Hillside) district.

19.41.020 Definitions.

The definitions below shall apply to the following terms used herein:
“Car share vehicle” shall mean a vehicle available for sharing located in a car share vehicle facility approved by the city.
“Car share vehicle facility” shall mean a facility of fixed location approved by the city to permit the storage, pick-up, and drop-off of a car share vehicle. “Existing structure” or “existing unit” shall mean an existing permitted or otherwise legal singlefamily dwelling or accessory dwelling unit.

Agenda Item #8.6:

"Ministerial" means no discretionary review or public hearing. “Sufficient For Separate Conveyance” shall mean that each attached or adjacent dwelling unit is constructed in a manner adequate to allow for the separate sale of each unit in a common interest development as defined in Civil Code Section 1351 (including a residential condominium, planned development, stock cooperative, or community apartment project), or into any other ownership type in which the dwelling units may be sold individually. “Two-unit residential development or project” shall mean two primary residential units located on a single lot. The residential units may be located in a single building that contains two residential units (also known as a duplex) or in two detached buildings, a housing development consisting of no more than two dwelling units, including a development which entails adding one new unit to an existing unit, which are developed using the provisions of this chapter and the provisions set forth in California Government Code Sections 65852.21 and/or 66411.7.

19.41.030 Planning permit and application requirements.

A. Two-Unit Residential Permit Required. A proposal to construct a two-unit residential development shall be subject to first obtaining a two-unit residential permit (sometimes referred to as a “two-unit permit”).

B. Application Submittal Requirements. The submittal requirements for a two-unit residential permit application shall be established by separate policy published by the planning community development director (“director”). Upon establishment of such submittal requirements, all applicants for a two-unit residential permit must comply with the procedures set forth in the director’s policy.

C. In addition to obtaining a two-unit permit, the applicant shall be required to obtain a building permit, tree removal permit if applicable, and other applicable construction post-entitlement permits prior to the construction of the dwelling units which are the subject of the two-unit permit.

19.41.040 Review procedures and action.

A. Completeness Review. The director or designee shall determine whether the application for a two-unit permit is complete pursuant to the requirements of Government Code Section 65943.

Agenda Item #8.6:

B. Objective Standard Consistency. The director or designee shall provide an applicant for a two-unit permit with written documentation identifying any inconsistencies with the objective standards applicable to two-unit residential developments within 60 30 days of determining the application is complete.

C. Ministerial Action. The director or designee shall render a ministerial decision without a public hearing on a two-dwelling-unit permit application upon such application being deemed complete. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this code, the director’s or designee’s action to grant or deny an application for a two-unit permit is final and not subject to appeal.

19.41.050 Maximum number of units.

A two-unit residential development shall include no more than two dwelling primary residential units on a single parcel, namely, a development that proposes no more than two new units or proposes to add one new unit to one existing unit. New dwelling units proposed as part of a twounit residential development must be primary dwelling units. New accessory dwelling units (“ADUs”) and new junior accessory dwelling units (“JADUs”) are not permitted.

A. When not located on a site subject to an approved or proposed urban lot split: (1) a maximum of two primary units per parcel meeting the requirements of this Chapter are permitted; and (2) either one accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit per primary unit meeting the requirements in Chapter 19.45 of this title is permitted, for a total of up to four units on the subject property.

B. When located on a site subject to an approved or proposed urban lot split, a maximum of two primary units meeting the requirements of this Chapter are permitted per parcel resulting from the urban lot split, for a total of two primary units on each of the two resulting parcels. Should a resulting parcel include only one primary development unit, either one accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit meeting the requirements of Chapter 19.45 of this title is permitted.

Agenda Item #8.6:

19.41.060 Building code.

All local and state building code provisions applicable to dwelling units shall apply to two-unit residential developments. A two-unit residential development shall meet all building code provisions necessary to accommodate separate conveyance of the subject dwelling units, including but not limited to providing a separate gas, electric, sewer, and water utility connection directly between each dwelling unit and the utility. Prior to issuance of any utility permits, the utility shall verify the service availability for the parcel. The project shall be connected to and served by the utility prior to final inspection approval of the project.

19.41.070 Easements.

Dwellings in a two-unit residential development shall not encroach upon any easement. All easements required for the provision of public services and facilities shall be dedicated or conveyed by an instrument in a form acceptable to the Director of the Community Development Department.

19.41.080 Minimum rental period.

Dwelling units in a two-unit residential development shall not be rented for a period of less than six months.

19.41.090 Deed restriction.

Prior to the issuance of a building permit for a two-unit residential development dwelling unit, the property owner shall record a covenant with the County Recorder’s Office, the form and content of which is satisfactory to the City Attorney. The covenant shall notify future owners of the approved size and attributes of the units and minimum rental period restrictions. The covenant shall also reflect the number of units approved and provide that no more than two primary residential units and two accessory dwelling units, for a total of four units, may be created on any single parcel or on any two parcels created using urban lot split subdivision procedures. This covenant shall remain in effect so long as a two-unit residential development exists on the parcel.

A deed restriction, signed by the property owner(s) of record and the director or designee, shall be recorded with the Sonoma County recorder’s office, listing the restrictions and limitations Agenda Item #8.6:

applicable to two-unit residential developments as identified below. Said deed restrictions shall be recorded prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the two-unit residential development and run with the land, and shall be binding upon any future owners, heirs, or assigns. The deed restrictions shall state:

A. The two-unit residential dwellings shall not be sold separately unless an urban lot split is approved pursuant to Government Code Section 66411.7 and Chapter 19.72 SMC, which lot split results in each said dwelling unit occupying a different lot; B. The dwelling units shall not be rented for a period of less than six consecutive months and termination of a tenancy shall not occur prior to expiration of at least one six-month rental period by the same tenant; and
C. The restrictions shall be binding upon any successor in ownership of the property, may be enforced by the city and lack of compliance with any provisions of Chapter 19.72 SMC or this chapter can may result in legal action against the property owner, including revocation of any right entitlement to maintain two dwelling units on the property.

19.41.100 Development impact f Fees associated with development.

Two-unit residential developments shall be subject to paying fees associated with development, including development impact fees, Quimby Act fees, connection fees, capacity charges, and other fees or charges as applicable.

19.41.110 Time limits and extensions.

A two-unit permit granted pursuant to this chapter shall be subject to the time limits and extensions of time specified in Chapter 19.56 SMC.

19.41.120 Prohibitions.

A two-unit residential project shall not be permitted under this chapter in any of the following circumstances A. Two-unit residential development or urban lot split, as specified in state law, shall be prohibited at the following sites, pursuant to state law and as further specified below:

A. The parcel on which the project is located is in a wetlands; Agenda Item #8.6:

B. The parcel on which the project is located is located in a very high fire severity zone, unless the project meets fire hazard mitigation measures pursuant to existing building standards and state fire mitigation measures applicable to the development; C. The parcel on which the project is located is located on a hazardous waste site, unless the site has been cleared by the state for residential use; D. The parcel on which the project is located is located in Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zones, unless the development complies with applicable seismic protection building code standards;
E. The parcel on which the project is located is located in a special flood hazard area (SFHA), unless a FEMA letter of map revision or map amendment has been issued by FEMA to the city for the project location or the site meets the flood damage prevention regulations contained in Chapter 14.25 SMC and the minimum requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program;
F. The parcel on which the project is located includes lands identified for conservation in an adopted natural resource protection plan, habitat for protected species, or under a conservation easement;

1. Sites located in any of the following, as identified in Government Code Sections 65913.4(a)(6)(B) to (K), as of 2021:
a. Either prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance, as defined pursuant to United States Department of Agriculture land inventory and monitoring criteria, as modified for California, and designated on the maps prepared by the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the Department of Conservation, or land zoned or designated for agricultural protection or preservation by a local ballot measure that was approved by the voters of that jurisdiction.
b. Wetlands, as defined in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Manual, Part 660 FW 2 (June 21, 1993).
c. Within a very high fire hazard severity zone, as determined by the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Government Code Section 51178, or within a high or very high fire hazard severity zone as indicated on maps adopted by the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Section 4202 of the Public Resources Code. This subparagraph does not apply to sites excluded from the specified hazard zones by a local agency, pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 51179 of the Government Code, or sites that have adopted fire hazard mitigation measures pursuant to existing building standards or state fire mitigation measures applicable to the development. Two-unit residential development shall not be permitted within Agenda Item #8.6:

the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, unless existing building standards within Very High Fire Hazard Zones include the high fire construction standards adopted or enforced by the City, as determined by the Building Official or the Fire Marshall. No variance or modification to any Fire Code requirements or high fire construction standards shall be permitted. d. A hazardous waste site that is listed pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 or a hazardous waste site designated by the Department of Toxic Substances Control pursuant to Section 25356 of the Health and Safety Code, unless the State Department of Public Health, State Water Resources Control Board, or Department of Toxic Substances Control has cleared the site for residential use or residential mixed uses. e. Within a delineated earthquake fault zone as determined by the State Geologist in any official maps published by the State Geologist, unless the development complies with applicable seismic protection building code standards adopted by the California Building Standards Commission under the California Building Standards Law (Part 2.5 (commencing with Section 18901) of Division 13 of the Health and Safety Code), and by any local building department under Chapter 12.2 (commencing with Section 8875) of Division 1 of Title 2. f. Within a special flood hazard area subject to inundation by the 1 percent annual chance flood (100-year flood) as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in any official maps published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. If a development proponent is able to satisfy all applicable federal qualifying criteria in order to provide that the site satisfies this subparagraph and is otherwise eligible for streamlined approval under this section, a local government shall not deny the application on the basis that the development proponent did not comply with any additional permit requirement, standard, or action adopted by that local government that is applicable to that site. A development may be located on a site described in this subparagraph if either of the following are met: (i) The site has been subject to a Letter of Map Revision prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and issued to the local jurisdiction; or (ii) The site meets Federal Emergency Management Agency requirements necessary to meet minimum flood plain management criteria of the National Flood Insurance Program pursuant to Part 59 (commencing with Section 59.1) and Part 60 (commencing with Section 60.1) of Subchapter B of Chapter I of Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
g. Within a regulatory floodway as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in any official maps published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency unless the development has received a no rise certification in accordance with Section 60.3(d)(3) of Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations. If a development proponent is able to satisfy all applicable federal qualifying criteria in order to provide that the site satisfies this subparagraph and is otherwise eligible for streamlined approval under this section, a local government shall Agenda Item #8.6:

not deny the application on the basis that the development proponent did not comply with any additional permit requirement, standard, or action adopted by that local government that is applicable to that site.
h. Lands identified for conservation in an adopted natural community conservation plan pursuant to the Natural Community Conservation Planning Act (Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 2800) of Division 3 of the Fish and Game Code), habitat conservation plan pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. Sec. 1531 et seq.), or other adopted natural resource protection plan.
i. Habitat for protected species identified as candidate, sensitive, or species of special status by state or federal agencies, fully protected species, or species protected by the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. Sec. 1531 et seq.), the California Endangered Species Act (Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 2050) of Division 3 of the Fish and Game Code), or the Native Plant Protection Act (Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 1900) of Division 2 of the Fish and Game Code).
j. Lands under conservation easement.

2. Historic Resources. The project is Sites located in an historic district, property or structure designated pursuant to a local ordinance or included on the State Historic Resources Inventory or city of Sonoma’s local inventory of historic resources. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, two-unit residential developments are not permitted in the following city historic districts or areas: historic overlay district; Broadway corridor district; plaza district; historic train district; Sebastiani cottage district; on parcels identified on the city’s local historic resources list; and other historic districts defined as historic;

3. Rental Units. The proposed development Sites that would require demolition or alteration of any of the following types of housing:

1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to moderate, low, or very low incomes;

2. A rent-controlled unit;

3. A unit that has been occupied by a tenant within the past three years; or

4. Housing units removed from the rental market within the past 15 years under the Ellis Act A parcel or parcels on which an owner of residential real property has exercised the owner's rights under Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060) of Division 7 of Title 1 to withdraw accommodations from rent or lease within 15 years before the date of the application submittal.

Agenda Item #8.6:

4. Substantial Redevelopment. The proposed development would result in the demolition of more than 25 percent of the existing exterior structural walls, unless the site has not been occupied by a tenant in the last three years.and/or

5. Nonconforming Development. Sites already developed with two or more existing residential units, nonresidential uses, or mixed-use, shall not use the provisions of this section to add floor area, add residential units, or make any other alterations to the buildings or site otherwise prohibited by this Chapter, unless the development complies with all the standards of this Chapter.

6. Adverse Impacts. Sites the planning director finds that the proposed development would have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety or the physical environment that cannot be feasibly mitigated or avoided.

19.41.130 General requirements.

A. A proposed two-unit residential project shall comply with the following requirements:

1. The applicable flood damage prevention regulations contained in Chapter 14.25 SMC.

2. Development adjacent to a creek shall comply with SMC 19.40.020 (Creekside development). Construction of a two-unit project shall maintain a minimum 30-foot setback from the top of a creek bank (Nathanson Creek or Fryer Creek), except along Sonoma Creek, where a 50-foot setback shall be required. Additional setback dimensions or areas may be necessary to protect sensitive environmental resources (e.g., vernal pools). Setbacks adjacent to creekside paths or open spaces shall be measured from the outside boundary of the path or open space.

The applicant shall provide the building department with all applicable permits from outside agencies, which may include, but not be limited to, the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Army Corps of Engineers, State Water Resources Control Board and/or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service when requested by the building official.

3. A permanent address that complies with fire district standards is required for each dwelling unit.

4. The project shall comply with the applicable regulations contained in the California Building Standards Code as amended and adopted by the city of Sonoma.

5. Prior to issuance of a building permit for the construction of a two-unit residential project, the municipal water utility shall verify water service availability for the parcel. The project shall be Agenda Item #8.6:

connected to and served by the municipal water utility system prior to final inspection approval of the project.

6. Prior to issuance of a building permit for the construction of a two-unit residential project, the public sewer system utility shall verify public sewer service availability for the parcel. The project shall be connected to and served by the public sewer system prior to final inspection approval of the project.

7. Replacement Housing. If any existing dwelling unit is proposed to be demolished, the applicant will comply with the replacement housing provisions of Government Code Section 66300(d).

7. Any two-unit residential project legally created shall be governed by the zoning regulations in effect at the time of approval.

8. Development standards set forth in a planned unit development or specific plan shall apply to any housing development except that any such planned unit development or specific plan standard cannot be applied if it would either: (1) result in a conflict with standards set forth by state law for a housing development; or (2) preclude a housing development that meets the applicable requirements of state law or this Chapter.

9. The correction of nonconforming zoning conditions may not be required as a condition of approval.

19.41.140 Restrictions.

A two-unit residential development shall be subject to the following restrictions:

A. The development and use of dwelling units in two-unit residential projects shall only be valid if in conformance with this chapter and permitted under this chapter.

B. Any owner wishing to modify the number of units in an approved two-unit residential development must request termination of the use of one or more of the dwelling units using the procedures set forth in this chapter and satisfy all zoning and development standards such as setbacks, floor area and lot coverage.

C. If a basement is included in the design and construction of a dwelling unit which is the subject of a two-unit permit, the square footage of the basement shall be included in the calculation of the total floor area permitted under this chapter.

D. Roof decks are not allowed in a two-unit residential development governed by this chapter.

Agenda Item #8.6:

E. The creation of flag lots to accommodate a two-unit residential project is prohibited.

19.41.150 Objective development standards.

A. General Requirements. Two-unit residential developments are subject to the development standards in this section as adopted and amended from time to time. In addition, two-unit residential projects shall conform to all objective zoning, subdivision, and design standards applicable to the respective residential zoning district in which the project is located, except as expressly provided in this chapter. Notwithstanding the above, if the application of an objective standard would have the effect of physically precluding the construction of up to two units (each possessing no greater than 800 square feet of floor area) on a single parcel, compliance with that objective standard shall be waived but only to allow up two units 800 square feet each.

1. Allowed Uses. The only uses allowed on parcels on which two-unit residential development is permitted and, in the units, created under a two-unit residential development shall be residential uses and may not be used for rentals of less than 30 days, and rental terms shall not allow termination of the tenancy prior to the expiration of at least one 31-day period occupancy by the same tenant.

2. Minimum Lot Size. The minimum size of any parcel on which a two-unit residential development is permitted is 1,200 square feet.

3. Minimum and Maximum Floor Area Ratio. Maximum floor area ratio for a two-unit residential development shall be that specified for the zoning district in which the two-unit residential development is located. The floor area of each unit of a two-unit residential development shall be no greater than 800 square feet; provided, however, that if the application of an objective standard would have the effect of physically precluding either or both units from being at least 800 square feet in floor area, such standard shall be waived but only to the extent necessary to allow construction of the affected unit(s) of a size equaling 800 square feet in floor area.

4. Height. Maximum height for a two-unit residential development shall be that specified for the zoning district, however any portion of a new dwelling unit constructed within a reduced setback from the underlying zone shall be permitted to build to a maximum 16-feet in height. In no case shall the building exceed the height of the underlying zone to allow the development of two 800 square foot units, when it is feasible to modify other development standards to allow the development. Each unit of a two-unit residential development shall have only one story. The maximum height of the one-story unit shall be 18 feet above finished grade, measured from finished grade to the highest point of the roof. If application Agenda Item #8.6:

of an objective standard would have the effect of physically precluding a unit from being built on the parcel as a one-story structure, a two-story unit shall be allowed. The height of that two-story structure shall not exceed 25 feet measured from the finished grade to the highest point of the roof. Additionally, one-story walls shall not exceed a plate height of 12 feet above finished grade, two-story walls shall not exceed an overall plate height of 20 feet above finished grade, and the plate height on any new second story shall not exceed eight feet.

5. Site Coverage. Maximum site coverage for a two-unit residential development shall be that specified for the zoning district in which the two-unit residential project is located. “Site coverage” means the percentage of total site area occupied by structures (including but not limited to the residential units, garage, all accessory buildings, and decks over 18 inches above grade), and areas necessary for the ingress, egress, outdoor parking, and circulation of motor vehicles.

6. Setbacks. Setbacks for a two-unit residential development shall be that specified for the zoning district, however setbacks from the side and rear lot property lines shall be no less than four feet, except in the case of existing structures or structures constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure. Double-frontage (lots that abut two nonintersecting and different streets) and corner lots (lots that abut two streets where they intersect) shall use the following criteria to determine the location of the lots’ rear and side yards:
a. Double-Frontage Lots. For double-frontage lots, the exterior front yard shall be that part of the lot that fronts on either one of the two streets, and which contains the driveway and/or to which the front door faces. In those instances where the driveway is contained on a portion of the lot that fronts one street and the front door faces the other street, the owner may select either frontage of the lot as the front yard, and the opposite frontage shall be considered the rear yard. Where the driveway is contained on the portion of the lot to which the front door faces, that portion shall be considered the front yard and the opposite frontage shall be considered the rear yard. b. Corner Lots. For corner lots, the exterior front yard shall be that part of the lot that fronts on either one of the two streets, and which contains the driveway and/or to which the front door faces. In those instances where the driveway is contained on a portion of the lot that fronts one street and the front door faces the other street, the owner may select either frontage of the lot as the front yard, and the other frontage shall be considered the side yard. Where the driveway is contained on the portion of the lot to which the front door faces, that portion shall be considered the front yard and the other frontage shall be considered the side yard.

Agenda Item #8.6:

7. Building Form.
a. Dwelling units in a two-unit residential development shall include permanent provisions for living, eating, and sleeping, including a kitchen and bedroom closet or other storage.
b. Dwelling units in a two-unit residential development shall have separate exterior entries facing the street, and any part of the building of one unit may not be closer than six feet to the nearest part of the other dwelling building. c. A permanent foundation for each dwelling unit in a two-unit residential development and attached accessory uses shall be required.

8. Off-Street Parking.
a. One covered or uncovered off-street parking space is required per dwelling unit in a two-unit residential project, except as exempted below. i. No parking is required if the parcel is located within one-half mile walking distance of either a high-quality transit corridor, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 21155 of the Public Resources Code, or a major transit stop, as defined in Section 21064.3 of the Public Resources Code; or if there is a designated parking space for a car share vehicle located within one block of the parcel. b. The location of the required parking space(s) shall not obstruct the required parking of each dwelling unit and shall be a minimum of 20 feet in length and 10 feet in width. c. Tandem parking is prohibited. Each unit must have its own parking space which can be accessed without crossing over or encroaching upon the other unit’s parking space.
d. When an existing garage, carport, or other covered parking structure is converted or demolished in order to construct a new unit, at least one replacement parking space, which may be covered or uncovered, must be provided for each unit, unless the project is exempt from parking requirements.

9. Access to a Public Street. Every dwelling unit shall have permanent means of access to a public street. When automobile parking is required or proposed, vehicular access to a public street or alley shall be provided by a driveway that complies with the minimum width, slope, materials, and other standards consistent with the California Fire Code and SMC Chapter 12.12.

10. Storm Water Management. Two-residential unit development must comply with the City’s Storm Water Runoff Requirements pursuant to Chapter 13.32 Stormwater Management and Discharge Control.

Agenda Item #8.6:

11. Landscaping.
a. Street trees shall be planted in the city’s right-of-way, along the property frontages.

All street trees (including their spacing, size, type, and quantity) shall be consistent with the city’s tree planting program, including the master tree list. b. Each parcel on which a two-unit residential project is permitted shall feature landscaped front yards with mature trees (minimum of three trees, each of 15-gallon size) and other shrubs (minimum of 10 shrubs, each of five-gallon size). c. A complete application for a two-unit residential permit shall include a water conservation plan, which is subject to the approval of the city engineer. The plan shall include conservation measures for indoor and outdoor water use and shall be consistent with the city’s water conservation and landscape efficiency ordinances and policies.
d. A complete application for a two-unit residential permit shall include a landscape plan which must comply with the city’s water efficient landscaping ordinance (Chapter

14.32 SMC) and SMC 19.40.060 (Landscape standards), SMC 19.40.070 (Open space for multifamily residential projects), SMC 19.40.100 (Screening and buffering), and Chapter 19.46 SMC (Fences, Hedges and Walls).

12. Outdoor/Common Space.
a. Each two-unit residential development shall include 300 square feet of common shared exterior open space for each unit, for a total of 600 square feet of area not occupied by structures, parking spaces or driveways and available for use by the occupants of both dwelling units.
b. Each two-unit residential development shall include 75 to 225 square feet of private exterior open space for each dwelling unit, for the use and enjoyment of the residents of the unit for which the open space is provided.

Outdoor/Common Space for a two-unit residential development shall be that specified for the zoning district.

13. Utilities. Private underground utility services, including municipally supplied water, sewer, gas, electricity, cable TV and telephone, shall be available for extension to and connection with all units in a two-unit residential development. All dwelling units in a twounit residential development must be able to connect and shall connect to municipally supplied water, sewer, gas, and electricity services. All existing and proposed utility distribution facilities (including electric, telecommunications and cable television lines) Agenda Item #8.6:

installed in and for the purpose of supplying service to any dwelling unit(s) proposed as part of a two-unit residential project shall be installed underground. Equipment appurtenant to underground facilities, including surface-mounted transformers, pedestal-mounted terminal boxes and meter cabinets, and concealed ducts, shall also be underground.

12. Affordable Housing.
a. A complete application for a two-unit residential permit shall include a separate statement, signed by the applicant or owner of the parcel for which the two-unit residential project is proposed stating whether each new dwelling unit will be an ownership or rental unit.
b. The owner of each newly created unit in a two-unit residential project shall enter into an affordable housing agreement (“AHA”), in a form approved by the planning director and city attorney, assuring the continued affordability of each unit in perpetuity.

Affordable rental units shall include a management and maintenance plan (addressing issues including but not limited to tenant screening; warning and eviction procedures; use and maintenance of patios, decks, and other outdoor areas; quiet time; and the long-term maintenance of buildings and landscaping). The AHA must be executed and recorded prior to the issuance of any building permits pertinent to the two-unit residential project.
i. Units held out for rent shall be affordable to households in the low-income category based upon the Sonoma County area median income levels. ii. Units that are proposed to be owned shall be affordable to households in the moderate-income category based upon the Sonoma County area median income levels.
1 Unless the parcel is located within one-half mile (walking distance) of a high-quality transit corridor as defined in Section 21155(b) of the Public Resources Code or major transit stop as defined in Section 21064.3 of the Public Resources Code or there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the parcel, in which cases no on-site parking space shall be required.

19.41.160 Denial.

A. Denial of a Two-Unit Residential Development. The Director, or designee, shall not approve a Two-Unit Residential Development under any of the following circumstances:

1. The project proposes creation of more than two units total as described in this Chapter Agenda Item #8.6:

of Two-Unit Residential Development.

2. The urban lot split does not meet the requirements of Title 19 Development Regulations and Guidelines.

3. Based on a preponderance of the evidence, the building official finds that the proposed housing development project would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined and determined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Government Code Section 65589.5, upon public health and safety and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact.

19.41.1670 Violations and enforcement.

It is unlawful for any person to violate any provision of this chapter. Violations are subject to the enforcement penalties and procedures of Chapters 1.30 and 19.90 SMC, administrative penalties and development code enforcement. The remedies provided therein are cumulative.

Agenda Item #8.6:

EXHIBIT B
Chapter 19.72 PARCEL MAPS FOR URBAN LOT SPLITS

19.72.010 Purpose and applicability scope.

A. The intent of this chapter is to is to establish objective standards and regulations to govern the development of qualified Senate Bill 9 development projects on residential zoned properties within the City of Sonoma. The regulations are established to implement the requirements under California Government Code Sections 66411.7. In the event of an inconsistency between this chapter and Government Code Section 66411.7, Government Code Section 66411.7 shall prevail. This chapter implements California Government Code Section 66411.7 to provide an owner of a parcel zoned for single-family residential use a method to subdivide the parcel to accommodate the construction of two-unit residential development provided under Chapter

19.41 SMC.

B. Definitions.

1. “Nonconforming zoning condition” means a physical improvement on a property that does not conform with current zoning standards.

2. “Parcel map” shall have the same meaning as defined in Chapter 16.13 SMC.

3. “Two-unit residential development or project” shall have the same meaning as this term is defined in Chapter 19.41 SMC.

4. “Urban lot split” shall be defined as a subdivision involving the division of an existing parcel in a single-family residential zone into no more than two parcels.

B. Land Use, Zoning, and Density.
l. Land Use. Parcels created by an urban lot split shall only be developed with and used for two-unit residential developments pursuant to the standards and requirements of Chapter 19.41 SMC and all applicable provisions of this code.

2. Zoning. Urban lot splits shall only be permitted for parcels located in the following zoning districts: R-R (Residential – Rural) district, R-L (Residential – Low Density) district, R-S (Residential – Sonoma) district, and R-HS (Residential – Hillside) district.

3. Density. Urban lot splits are not subject to the density requirements of the Sonoma General Plan or this code.

Agenda Item #8.6:

19.72.020 Definitions.
“Acting in concert with the owner” shall mean a person, or entity that has common ownership or control of the subject parcel with the owner of the adjacent parcel, a person acting on behalf of, acting for the predominant benefit of, acting on the instructions of, or actively cooperating with, the owner of the parcel being subdivided.
“Adjacent parcel” shall mean any parcel of land that is (1) touching the parcel at any point; (2) separated from the parcel at any point only by a public right-of-way, private street, or way, or public or private utility, service, or access easement; or (3) separated from another parcel only by other real property which is in common ownership or control of the applicant. “Common ownership or control” shall mean property owned or controlled by the same person, persons, or entity, or by separate entities in which any shareholder, partner, member, or family member of an investor of the entity owns ten percent or more of the interest in the property. “Nonconforming zoning condition” shall mean a physical improvement on a property that does not conform with current zoning standards.
“Parcel map” shall have the same meaning as defined in Chapter 16.13 SMC. “Two-unit residential development or project” shall have the same meaning as this term is defined in Chapter 19.41 SMC.
“Urban lot split” shall be defined as a subdivision involving the division of an existing parcel in a single-family residential zone into no more than two parcels that meets all the criteria and standards set forth in this Chapter.

19.72.030 Parcel map and application requirements.

A. Parcel Map Required. An urban lot split shall require the submittal of an application for a parcel map prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act (Government Code Section 66410 et seq.) and Chapter 16.05 SMC.

B. Two-Unit Permit Application Also Required. At the time that an application for an urban lot split is filed with the city, the applicant must also file with the city an application for a two-unit permit in accordance with Chapter 19.41 SMC in which the applicant must set forth the two-unit residential development projects which the applicant proposes to develop on each of the two parcels proposed to be created by the urban lot split.

C. Completeness Review. The city engineer or designee shall determine whether the parcel map application for an urban lot split is complete pursuant to the requirements of Government Agenda Item #8.6:

Code Section 65943. If the urban lot split map is denied, the reasons therefore shall be stated in the notice of denial.

D. Objective Standard Consistency. The planning community development director or designee shall provide an applicant for an urban lot split with written documentation identifying any inconsistencies with the objective standards applicable to the urban lot split within 30 days of the application being determined or deemed complete.

E. Ministerial Action. The city engineer or designee shall render a ministerial decision without a public hearing on a parcel map application for an urban lot split upon within 60 days such application being deemed complete. The city engineer shall approve a parcel map for an urban lot split if the engineer determines that it meets all of the requirements objective standards applicable to the urban lot split of this chapter and Title 16 Subdivisions. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary set forth in this code, the city engineer’s or designee’s action to grant or deny a parcel map application for an urban lot split is final and not subject to appeal.

F. Building Permit Issuance. A building permit for development on an urban lot split shall not be issued until after the urban lot split parcel map is recorded with the county recorder’s office.

G. Denial. if Impacts. The application for an urban lot split may be denied if the planning director finds that the proposed development would have a specific, adverse impact on public health and safety or the physical environment that cannot be feasibly mitigated or avoided. The Director, or designee, shall not approve an urban lot split map under any of the following circumstances:

1. The land proposed for division is a lot or parcel which was part of an urban lot split that the City previously approved.

2. The subdivision proposes creation of more than two lots, or more than four units total among the two lots as described in Section C of Two-Unit Residential Development described above.

3. The urban lot split does not meet the requirements of Title 16 Subdivisions.

4. Based on a preponderance of the evidence, the building official finds that the proposed housing development project would have a specific, adverse impact, as defined and determined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Government Code Section 65589.5, upon public health and safety or the physical environment and for which there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact.

5. The urban lot split does not comply with applicable, objective requirements imposed by the Subdivision Map Act, Title 16 Subdivisions, and this Chapter. Any decision to disapprove an Agenda Item #8.6:

urban lot split map shall be accompanied by a finding identifying the applicable, objective requirements imposed by the Subdivision Map Act, Title 16 Subdivisions, and this Chapter.

H. Preparation and Fee. A parcel map for an urban lot split must be prepared by a registered civil engineer or licensed land surveyor in accordance with Government Code Sections 66444 through 66450 and this chapter and submitted for approval to the city engineer.

I. Time Limit and Extension. A parcel map approved pursuant to this chapter that is not recorded within 24 months of the date of approval shall expire and become void, except where an extension of time is requested by the subdivider. A maximum extension of 12 months may be approved by the planning director or designee.

19.72.030 Parcel eligibility.

A. An urban lot split shall be allowed on parcels located in the single-family residential zones listed under SMC 19.72.010(CB)(2), except where:

1. The parcel is specifically prohibited as identified in Section 19.41.120 Prohibitions. The subject parcel meets one or more of the criteria specified in Government Code Sections 65913.4(a)(6)(B) through (K);

2. The parcel is located within a historic district or property described in SMC 19.41.120(G).

2. The subject parcel was established through prior exercise of an urban lot split pursuant to Government Code Section 66411.7.

3. The owner of the parcel being subdivided or any person acting in concert with the owner has previously subdivided an adjacent parcel using an urban lot split as provided for in Government Code Section 66411.7. For purposes of this chapter, “any person acting in concert” with the owner includes, but is not limited to, an individual or entity operating on behalf of, acting jointly with, or in partnership or another form of cooperative relationship with, the property owner; and/or

5. The urban lot split would require the demolition or alteration of the following types of housing:

1. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate, low, or very low income;

2. Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control through a public entity’s valid exercise of its police power;
Agenda Item #8.6:

3. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last three years; or

4. The subject parcel is a property on which its owner has exercised his/her/its rights under Government Code Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060) of Division 7 of Title 1 to withdraw accommodations from rent or lease within 15 years before the date of submitting an application for a parcel map to create an urban lot split.

19.72.040 Subdivision regulations.

A parcel map for an urban lot split shall be subject to all applicable, objective subdivision standards stipulated in Chapters 16.01 through 16.13 SMC, with the exception of those standards requiring right-of-way dedications and off-site subdivision improvements.

19.72.050 Development standards.

A parcel map for an urban lot split shall be subject to all objective development standards stipulated in this Chapter, Title 16 Subdivisions, and the Subdivision Map Act (commencing with Government Code Section 66410)), except as otherwise expressly provided in Government Code Section 66411.7. Notwithstanding Government Code Section 66411.1, no dedications of rights-of-way or the construction of offsite improvements may be required as a condition of approval for an Urban Lot Split, although easements may be required for the provision of public services and facilities.
, with the exception of those standards requiring right-of-way dedications and off-site subdivision improvements.

19.72.060 Maximum number of dwelling units permitted.

A maximum of two dwelling units shall be permitted on each parcel created by an urban lot split.

Such units shall consist of two primary single-family dwelling units.

A. When located on a site subject to an approved or proposed urban lot split, a maximum of two primary units meeting the requirements of this Chapter are permitted per parcel resulting from the urban lot split, for a total of two primary units on each of the two resulting parcels.

Agenda Item #8.6:

1. Should a resulting parcel include only one primary development unit, either one accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling unit meeting the requirements of Chapter 19.45 of this title is permitted.

2. New accessory dwelling units and new junior accessory dwelling units shall not be permitted in addition to the two primary residential units on each lot.

19.72.070 Owner occupancy required.

The owner of a parcel being subdivided pursuant to Government Code Section 66411.7 shall sign an affidavit stating his/her/its intent to occupy one of the housing units existing or constructed as part of the two-unit residential development as his/her/its principal residence for a minimum of three years from the date of approval of the parcel map for the urban lot split, the form and content of which is satisfactory to the City Attorney. This subsection shall not apply to an applicant that is a "community land trust," as defined in clause (ii) of subparagraph (C) of paragraph (11) of subdivision (a) of Section 402.1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code or is a "qualified nonprofit corporation" as described in Section 214.15 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.

19.72.080 Minimum rental period.

Any dwelling unit located on a parcel created by virtue of an urban lot split that is offered for rent shall not be rented for a period of less than six months.

19.72.090 Nonconforming zoning conditions.

Notwithstanding any contrary provisions of this code, the approval of an urban lot split parcel map shall not be contingent on the correction of any existing nonconforming zoning condition.

19.72.100 Separate sale or conveyance.

The dwelling units on parcels created through an urban lot split can be separately sold or conveyed. Accordingly, the dwelling units proposed on such parcels shall be designed to allow separate conveyance.

Agenda Item #8.6:

19.72.110 Building code.

All local and state building code provisions applicable to dwelling units shall apply to two-unit residential developments. A two-unit residential development shall meet all building code provisions necessary to accommodate separate conveyance of the subject dwelling units, including but not limited to provide a separate gas, electric, sewer, and water utility connection directly between each dwelling unit and the utility.

19.72.120 Additional information on parcel map for urban lot splits.

The following supplemental information is required to be submitted with a parcel map for an urban lot split:

A. The parcel map shall be 24 inches by 36 inches in size, be drawn to scale with the scale indicated on the parcel map and shall show and specify the following information:

1. Total area (in acreage and square feet) of the existing and each proposed lot;

2. Location and dimensions of existing and proposed property lines;

3. Zoning district;

4. The location and use of all existing and proposed structures;

5. The location of all existing water wells and septic systems;

6. All required zoning setbacks for the existing and proposed lots;

7. The location of all existing water, sewer, electricity, storm drain, or gas service lines, pipes, systems, or easements;

8. The location of all proposed new water, sewer, storm drain, lines, pipes, or systems;

9. The location of any proposed easements for flood control, access, or public utilities to serve a lot created by the subdivision;

10. The location and species of any existing trees larger than four inches in diameter measured four feet six inches above the base and any such trees proposed for removal;

11. Any area of the parcel that has a slope of 25 percent or greater by way of contours at five-foot intervals;

12. Any area of the parcel that is a watercourse;
Agenda Item #8.6:

13. Name and dimensions, including right-of-way and improved area, of public and private streets or public alleys adjoining the parcel;

14. Curb, gutter, sidewalk, parkway, and street trees: type, location, and dimensions;

15. Location of existing or proposed driveway dimensions, materials, and slope (including cross slope);

16. Location of existing or proposed pedestrian pathway access to the public right-of-way; and

17. Open space areas required under Chapter 19.41 SMC.

B. A statement of the owner, signed under penalty of perjury under the laws of California, that:

1. The proposed urban lot split would not require or authorize demolition or alteration of any of the following types of housing:
a. Housing that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate, low, or very low income. b. Housing that is subject to any form of rent or price control through a public entity’s valid exercise of its police power.
c. A parcel or parcels on which an owner of residential real property has exercised the owner’s rights under Chapter 12.75 (commencing with Section 7060) of Division 7 of Title 1 of the Government Code to withdraw accommodations from rent or lease within 15 years before the date that the development proponent submits an application. d. Housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the last three years;

2. The parcel has not been established through prior exercise of an urban lot split under this chapter;

3. Neither the owner of the parcel being subdivided nor any person acting in concert with the owner has previously subdivided an adjacent parcel under the provisions of this chapter;

4. The owner intends to occupy one of the housing units located on a lot created by the parcel map as their principal residence for a minimum of three years from the date of the recording of the parcel map;

5. Rental terms of any unit created by the subdivision shall not be less than 30 days six consecutive months, nor shall rental terms allow termination of the tenancy prior to the Agenda Item #8.6:

expiration of at least one six consecutive months’ 31-day period occupancy by the same tenant; and

6. The uses allowed on a lot created by the parcel map shall be limited to residential uses.

19.72.130 Objective subdivision standards.

A. Urban lot splits are subject to the objective subdivision standards in this section as adopted and amended from time to time. Urban lot splits shall conform to all objective zoning, subdivision, and design standards applicable to the residential zoning district in which the parcel subject to the urban lot split is located, SMC Chapter 16.03 Subdivision Design and Improvement Requirements and SMC Chapter 19.41 Two Unit Residential Development except as expressly provided in this chapter.

A. Minimum and Maximum Floor Area. The floor area of each unit of a two-unit residential development shall be no greater than 800 square feet; provided, however, that if the application of an objective subdivision standard would have the effect of physically precluding either or both units from being 800 square feet in floor area, such standard shall be waived but only to the extent necessary to allow construction of the affected unit(s) of a size of 800 square feet in floor area.

B. Height. Each unit of a two-unit residential development shall have only one story. The maximum height of the one-story unit shall be 18 feet above finished grade, measured from finished grade to the highest point of the roof. If application of an objective subdivision standard would have the effect of physically precluding a unit from being built on the parcel as a onestory structure, a two-story unit shall be allowed. The height of that two-story structure shall not exceed 25 feet measured from the finished grade to the highest point of the roof. Additionally, the plate height on any new second story shall not exceed eight feet.

C. Parcel Design and Improvements.

1. An urban lot split parcel map may subdivide an existing legal parcel to create no more than two parcels of approximately equal lot area. One parcel shall not be smaller than 40 percent of the lot area of the original parcel proposed for subdivision and neither parcel shall be smaller than 1,200 square feet. The following areas are excluded from the calculation of lot area for the purposes of an urban lot split:
a. Areas of a lot that are a watercourse, which consists of that portion of the creek, stream or watercourse located within the tops of its banks.

Agenda Item #8.6:

b. Areas of lots that contain slopes greater than 25 percent. c. Areas of lots that contain wetlands as defined in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Manual, Part 660 FW 2 (June 21, 1993).

2. Each parcel must be served by not less than one separate water service meter connected to the municipal water system and not less than one separate connection to the public sewer system.

3. Each parcel shall drain to the street or to a developed drainage easement.

4. Easements shall be granted to the city for access along all natural watercourses as necessary for flood control, maintenance, and improvement purposes.

5. Lot Lines. A lot line shall not bisect or be located within four feet of any of the following:
a. A dwelling that has been occupied by a tenant at any time during the three years before the date of the parcel map;
b. A structure designated as a historic structure or a candidate structure under any city ordinance or included on the State Historic Resources Inventory or listed on the city of Sonoma’s local inventory of historic resources;
c. A dwelling that is subject to a recorded covenant, ordinance, or law that restricts rents to levels affordable to persons and families of moderate, low, or very low income; or
d. If the resulting lot would create a developable area that would interfere with the use of an existing easement for its intended purpose.

6. Accessory structures requiring a building permit shall not be permitted on lots created from urban lot splits.

7. Bioretention/infiltration systems shall be at least four percent the size of the total size of new impervious surfaces.

D. Lot Lines. The location and orientation of new lot lines shall meet the following standards:

1. Front lot lines shall conform to the minimum public street frontage requirements of the development code where feasible; a flag lot, or a lot with a narrow projecting strip of land extending along a street, is not permitted.

2. Each parcel shall have approximately equal lot width and lot depth. Lot depth shall be measured at the midpoint of the front lot line. Lot width shall be measured by a line Agenda Item #8.6:

connecting two points on opposite interior lot lines that will result in a line parallel to the front lot line.

3. New lot lines must be straight lines, unless there is a conflict with existing improvements or the natural environment, in which case the lines should be straight where possible but may follow the appropriate course if necessary.

4. Lot lines facing a street shall generally be parallel to the street. Unless the minimum public street frontage is provided, the lot line dividing the two parcels must be parallel to and not less than 50 feet from an existing front lot line, or outside the front half of the existing lot, whichever is greater.

5. Interior lot lines not facing the street shall be at right angles perpendicular to the street on straight streets, or radial to the street on curved streets.

6. Lot lines shall be located within appropriate physical locations such as the tops of creek banks, at appropriate topographical changes (top or bottom of slopes, etc.) or at locations which clearly separate existing and proposed land uses.

7. Lot lines shall be contiguous with existing zoning boundaries.

8. The placement of lot lines shall not result in an existing accessory building or existing accessory use on a lot without a main building or primary use on the same lot.

9. Lot lines shall not render an existing structure as nonconforming in any respect (e.g., setbacks, open yard, floor area ratio, parking), nor increase the nonconformity of an existing nonconforming structure.

19.72.140 Access easement standards.

Each lot shall front upon or have access to a public street or be served by an access easement serving no more than two lots. Access shall be provided in compliance with all applicable objective zoning, subdivision, building, and fire standards required by this Municipal Code. these standards:

1. Vehicle access easements serving a maximum of two units shall meet the following standards:
a. Easement width shall be a minimum of 12 feet and a maximum of 16 feet, unless a wider driveway is required by the California Fire Code due to distance of the structure Agenda Item #8.6:

from the easement, or as needed to meet the driveway and parking standards in SMC Title 19.
b. The minimum length for a vehicle access easement is 20 feet. No maximum easement length shall be set. If easement length is more than 75 feet, a vehicle turnaround shall be provided.
c. No residential structure shall be closer than three feet to the vehicle access easement.
d. A minimum unobstructed clearance height of 15 feet shall be maintained above vehicle lanes and parking spaces.

2. Vehicle access easements serving three to four units shall meet the following standards:
a. Easement width shall be a minimum of 20 feet;
b. The minimum length for a vehicle access easement is 20 feet. No maximum easement length shall be set. If easement length is more than 75 feet, a vehicle turnaround shall be provided;
c. No residential structure shall be closer than five feet to the easement; d. A minimum unobstructed clearance height of 15 feet shall be maintained above vehicle lanes and parking spaces.

3. Where a lot does not abut a public street, and where no automobile parking spaces are required or proposed for the residential development, a vehicle access easement is not required.

4. An easement providing pedestrian access to a street from each lot shall be provided meeting the following standards:
a. Easement width shall be a minimum of four feet.

5. Vehicle access easements shall not be located closer than 25 feet to an intersection.

6. Access and provisions for fire protection (including turnouts) consistent with the California Fire Code shall be provided for all structures served by an access easement.

7. Surfacing of easements, pedestrian walkways required within easements, and turnaround dimensions shall meet the requirements of the California Fire Code, and the parking design standards in Chapter 12.12this code.

Agenda Item #8.6:

19.72.150 Map requirements.

A. The content and form of an urban lot split parcel map shall meet all the requirements of Government Code Sections 66444 through 66450.

B. The parcel map shall show all easements for public utilities necessary to serve each lot created by the subdivision.

C. The parcel map shall indicate all private underground utility services and facilities, including gas, electricity, cable TV and telephone.

D. The parcel map shall show all easements necessary to provide each lot with access to the public or private street or alley abutting the original parcel.

E. The parcel map shall contain a declaration that:

1. Each lot created by the parcel map shall be used solely for residential dwellings;

2. No more than two new primary residential dwelling units may be permitted on each lot.

No new accessory dwelling units and no new junior accessory dwelling units in addition to two primary residential dwelling units are permitted on either lot;

3. Rental of any dwelling unit on a lot created by the parcel map shall not be less than 31 consecutive days, nor shall rental terms allow termination of the tenancy prior to the expiration of at least one 31-day period occupancy by the same tenant;

4. Parcels may not be further subdivided using the urban lot split provisions; and

5. No variances shall be permitted other than those code deviations expressly allowed by this Chapter and Chapter 19.41.

4. Each new dwelling unit permitted to be constructed on the lots must be rented to a lowincome household or owned by moderate-income households based upon the Sonoma County area median income levels, which said obligation is memorialized in a separate instrument to be recorded against the title of the lot.

19.72.160 Prohibition of further subdivision.

A lot created by a parcel map under this chapter shall not be further subdivided.

Agenda Item #8.6:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Finance
Staff Contact
Prapti Aryal, Finance Director
Agenda Item Title
Accept the Expenditure Report for the Month of December 2024 Summary
The attached report shows disbursements for the month of December 2024.

Some departments in Fund 100 (General Fund) have higher percentages of budget vs actual due to the allocation of FY2024-25 premiums for workers comp, property and liability insurance, which were paid this month.

Fund 304 (Parks & Facilities CIP) and Fund 314 (Parks-in-Lieu) increased their budgets by $133,268 and $20,000, respectively, as authorized by Resolution 96-2024.

Fund 391 (Successor Agency) received $1,248,315 from the County of Sonoma as approved by the California Department of Finance to help the city meet its CDA debt obligations for FY24-25.

Fund 731 (Senior Housing) expended its amended budget of $40,410 for electrical upgrades and sidewalk repairs at Sonoma Creek Senior Housing as authorized by Resolution 86-2024.

A detailed list of disbursements is available at the web site indicated at the bottom of the report.

Recommended Council Action
Accept the report.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
Monthly Payables Report, December 2024
Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Agenda Item #8.7:

Attachments
Disbo Report December 2024 (incl Fund Balance)
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #8.7:

DISBURSEMENT REPORT DECEMBER 2024
Year to Date Monthly Year to Date Annual Percent of Fund Fund Revenue Expenditure Expenditure Budget Budget Balance General Fund 30000 10,278,589 24,262,320 42% 13,519,282 City Council 41001 22,809 79,267 175,144 45%
City Clerk 41002 57,753 198,664 439,186 45%
City Manager 41003 234,313 884,443 1,409,847 63%
Finance 41004 103,700 435,823 686,037 64%
City Attorney 41005 21,670 89,072 272,584 33%
Police 42101 497,894 2,675,473 7,595,839 35%
Fire 42201 1,139,990 4,468,527 7,936,241 56%
Public Works - Admin 43020 80,931 305,844 680,793 45%
Public Works - Streets 43022 174,644 761,345 1,187,673 64% Public Works - Parks 43023 204,879 926,296 1,651,256 56% Planning 43030 174,891 584,644 1,263,154 46%
Building 43040 87,465 278,265 941,768 30%
Community Activities 43101 71,464 545,372 979,429 56%
Successor Agency 43199 14,839 46,422 174,568 27%
Non-Departmental 43200 94,771 459,462 922,875 50%
Emergency Response 43201 169 5,723 - 0%
Transfers - 125,129 809,716 15%
Total General Fund Expenditures 2,982,183 12,869,772 27,126,108 47% Other Funds
Public Education & Gov 202 10,170 - - 59,061 0% (3,606) Strong Motion 203 119 - - - 0% 6,622
Asset Forfeiture 211 277 - - - 0% 17,109
SLESF C.O.P.S Grant 217 82,818 - - 100,000 0% 491,371
Bond Property 220 - - - - 0% (19,144)
Maysonnave Property 221 - - - - 0% (15,196)
Schell Drainage 234 3,235 - - - 0% 65,790
Abandoned Vehicle 240 3,124 1,432 7,171 - 0% (30,745)
Streets/Transport/Drain 301 1,184,977 36,523 236,150 499,599 47% (609,141) Gas Tax 302 152,310 9,828 66,846 1,080,940 6% 712,976
SB-1Road Maint 303 84,674 - 302,723 992,000 31% 467,258 Parks & Facilities 304 44,715 15,589 15,589 203,268 8% 128,321 Fire Measure H 312 - - - 548,700 0% -
Transportation Measure M 313 73,088 - - 287,000 0% 307,695 Parks-In-Lieu/Quimby Act 314 9,307 - 358 162,921 0% 338,265 Parks Measure M 315 6,544 - - 427,000 0% 542,729
Prop 68 Parks 316 - - - - 0% (185,190)
Successor Agency 391 2,087,092 1,750 1,203,523 2,591,338 46% (22,407,468) CREBS 495 - - - - 0% (41,749)
2012 POB 498 21 - - - 0% (5,250)
Cemeteries 501 106,379 36,453 203,677 637,126 32% (2,140,640) Cemetery Replacement 502 - - - - 0% 288,613
Cemetery Endowment 504 11,257 - - 50,000 0% 777,878
Water Utility 510 3,941,509 695,960 4,344,610 6,796,897 64% 6,870,939 Water CIP 512 27,645 - - 950,000 0% 1,821,122
Water Equip Replacement 513 11,113 - - - 0% 714,961
EMS Equip Replacement 521 1,538 - - - 0% 83,424
Mgmt Information Srvcs 601 257,666 54,793 186,029 608,159 31% 389,752 Vehicle Replacement 603 206,394 47,225 431,687 934,339 46% 1,228,212 Insurance 604 808 - - - 0% 49,903
Bulding Maintenance 610 204,691 - - 35,000 0% 3,390,447 Computer Loan 614 984 - - - 0% 64,022
Hardscape Maint 615 401 - - - 0% 26,009
Admin Hearings 620 140 - - - 0% 673
Grants Restricted 630 1,532,321 - 1,179,945 360,000 328% 353,533 Culture Fine Art 701 172 - - - 0% 12,121
Tree Trust 702 271 - - - 0% 19,090
Public Art 703 519 - - - 0% 44,982
Pool Scholarship 715 4,034 - - 25,000 0% 226,580
Senior Housing 731 4,003 40,410 40,410 40,410 100% 212,936 Housing Trust 732 224,659 - - - 0% 2,339,654
IGT 796 28,136 - 353,655 519,613 68% 1,723,908
SVFRA Operations 798 19,911 - - - 0% 646,771
TOTAL 20,605,610 3,922,145 21,442,145 45,034,479 48%
Monthly disbursement detail reports can be found at www.sonomacity.org/financial-documents Agenda Item #8.7:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Administration
Staff Contact
Sarah Tracy, Senior Management Analyst/PIO
Agenda Item Title
Adopt an Ordinance Amending Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to Align with the Revised Public Art Policy
Summary
The City Council is asked to conduct the second reading and adopt the ordinance amending Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code (Attached). This amendment aligns the ordinance with the recently approved Public Art Policy and ensures compliance with legal requirements by including the necessary ordaining clause.

Background:

On December 18, 2024, the City Council approved an updated Public Art Policy and introduced an ordinance amending Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code. The amendments to the ordinance were designed to align with the revised policy by expanding definitions to include temporary installations and clarifying the responsibilities of the Cultural Fine Arts Commission (CFAC) concerning temporary and permanent art projects.

Discussion:

The revised ordinance supports the City's efforts to foster a dynamic public art environment.

The ordinance amendments, as introduced, reflect the following:
 Expanded definitions to incorporate temporary installations.  Updated responsibilities for the CFAC.

Recommended Council Action
Adopt the ordinance.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
The ordinance amendments are expected to have a neutral fiscal impact, aligning existing resources with the revised Public Art Policy.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Agenda Item #8.8:

Exempt
Not Applicable
Action Requested
Attachments
Draft Public Art Ordinance
Alignment with Council Goals:

Not Applicable
Agenda Item #8.8:

City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE # _____ - 2025

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA AMENDING CHAPTER 19.51, RELATING TO PUBLIC ART, TO THE CITY OF SONOMA MUNICIPAL CODE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: Chapter 19.51 of the Sonoma Municipal Code is amended to read in full as follows (strikeout is used to denote existing text being deleted; underline is used to denote new text being added):

CHAPTER 19.51

PUBLIC ART PROGRAM
Sections:

19.51.010 Purpose.

19.51.020 Definitions.

19.51.030 Funding.

19.51.040 Cultural and fine arts commission responsibilities.

19.51.050 Application.

19.51.010 Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter the public art ordinance is to authorize, fund, and establish procedures for art works artworks in the public realm within the city of Sonoma. It will help seeks to guarantee the development of public art work artwork as a whole in the city, ensuring a closer relationship between the landscape, buildings, community, and art. It creates The chapter establishes a process for the community to work together with artists, city officials, and other stakeholders to make Sonoma an even more interesting, memorable, and beautiful place to live, go to school, work, and visit, and engage with art.

The public art program seeks to:

A. Contribute to the city’s civic pride and sense of identity, and enhance its physical and aesthetic environment;
B. Augment Sonoma’s reputation as a city that celebrates the arts, supporting the integration of art into public spaces as part of urban beautification and cultural enrichment; C. Enrich the lives of Sonoma residents and visitors by incorporating the both permanent and temporary visual arts into public spaces, and expanding their concepts the public’s understanding of art by and encouraging site-specific works that engage the surrounding environment;
D. Encourage collaboration between artists, landscape architects, urban planners, architects, engineers, and other designers to foster creative, multidisciplinary approaches to public art; E. Integrate the work and thinking of artists into the planning, design, and construction of city facilities, buildings, and public spaces, ensuring that public art contributes to the overall aesthetics and functional design of these spaces;
Agenda Item #8.8:

F. Engage the citizens residents of Sonoma in creative partnerships with artists, fostering community involvement in public art initiatives;
G. Provide curatorial expertise and project management for the acquisition, installation, and ongoing maintenance of public art work artworks in Sonoma.

H. Foster the growth of both temporary and permanent public artworks, ensuring that temporary installations contribute to the city’s cultural vibrancy and create opportunities for artists;
I. Support Sonoma’s vision of becoming an art destination by promoting public art that reflects the city’s history, cultural diversity, and creative spirit, and in the future, potentially aligning with the goals and guidelines that may be outlined in a public art master plan, if developed.

19.51.020 Definitions.

A. “Permanent installation” means artwork or art placed at with a permanent site as opposed to a temporary site, intended to remain at that site for at least twenty (20) years. “Public art annual plan” means a prioritized list of visual arts projects to be undertaken in any given year with budgets and recommended site and design approach, developed by the cultural and fine arts commission in conjunction with city officials.

B. “Public art fund” means a fund within the city of Sonoma budget into which all monetary contributions for public art work artwork shall be deposited.

C. “Public art policy and guidelines” means the regulations adopted by the cultural and fine arts commission and approved by the city council which establish procedures to carry out the purpose of this chapter. The public art policy and guidelines shall include but not be limited to criteria for the selection of artists and art works artwork, procedures for the maintenance of a file of interested artists, procedures for artistic competitions, and requirements for the maintenance of works of art. The cultural and fine arts commission may amend the guidelines from time to time with the approval of the city council.

D. “Public art master plan” means a strategic document developed by a city, municipality, or organization to guide the vision, planning, implementation, and management of public art within a community.

E. “Public Art Work artwork.” Public art works involves visual artists working through the public art process creating original works in public spaces that include, but are not limited to, paintings, murals, stained glass, fiber work, statues, reliefs or other sculptures, monuments, fountains, arches, or other structures intended for ornament or commemoration, carvings, frescoes, mosaics, mobiles, photographs, drawings, collages, prints, crafts or other decorative and utilitarian works in clay, fiber, wood, metal, plastics, and other materials.

Public art work artwork includes media works such as film, video, photo projections, and computer-generated art works artworks. Public artworks Works of art may be temporary as well as permanent. Public art work artwork projects also include artists serving on design and development teams to identify opportunities to incorporate art in the public space.

F. “Public development project” shall include, but is not limited to, the construction or remodel of any city-owned building, structure, park, utility, street, sidewalk, or parking facility, or any portion thereof, within the limits of the city of Sonoma.

G. “Public space” means any place or property within the city limits which is open to the general public for its use, or which is in public view, or is generally accessible and visible to the public.

H. “Temporary installation” means artwork or art placed at a site that is installed in a given place for a limited time period, typically less than twenty (20) years, after which it is removed, replaced, or allowed to degrade, according to an agreed-upon schedule.

19.51.030 Funding.

Agenda Item #8.8:

A. Establish a Public Art Fund.: The city shall establish a special revenue fund designated as the “public art fund” for the deposit of gifts, bequests to the city for public art work artwork, and other funds for works of art in accordance with the public art program. The public art fund is used exclusively as a means of isolating and identifying all monetary transactions pertaining to the city public art program. Appropriation of funds to support the public art program shall be made to the public art funds, consistent with the city’s budget cycle, capital facilities program improvement plan, and major capital projects identified by the city council.

B. Public Development Projects.: All public, city-owned development projects with total building permit valuation costs in excess of $250,000 shall devote an amount equal to one percent (1%) of such costs for the acquisition of works of art for placement in the city. For public projects with federal and/or state matching requirements or grant-funded projects, the one percent (1%) shall only apply to the city’s portion of the project funding.

C. Annual City Allocation: An amount equal to one-quarter-of-one percent (0.25%) of the city of Sonoma’s budgeted general fund expenditures shall be appropriated annually to the city’s public art fund;, provided , that said appropriation shall be capped at $25,000 per fiscal year.

The city council reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to waive or reduce the annual allocation of the city’s financial situation does not allow for the funding to be set aside. The city council shall adopt such a waiver or reduction by adopting a resolution setting forth the findings for the waiver.

19.51.040 Cultural and fine arts commission responsibilities.

The Sonoma cultural and fine arts commission shall:

A. Establish guidelines to carry out the purpose of this chapter. The guidelines shall include but not be limited to criteria for selection of artists and art work, review criteria for proposed gifts of artwork to the city, commercial and industrial development project art selection guidelines, procedures for art competitions, and requirements for the maintenance of artwork.

B. Develop and implement a public art annual plan for the city of Sonoma in conjunction with city officials.

C. Recommend the expenditure of funds for the purchase of public art work or for the commission of design, execution and/or placement of works of art, for maintenance of public art work, and for administration of the public art program.

D. Collaborate with city staff in the identification and evaluation of potential sites for exterior artwork.

E. Approve artist or artists to be commissioned for a project; artist or artists to develop design proposals for a project; or artist or artists whose existing work is to be selected for a project.

F. Approve artist design proposals and sites for permanent public art work.

G. Approve designs and sites for temporary public art work.

H. Appoint panels for the selection of public art work.

Agenda Item #8.8:

I. Recommend to the city council the acceptance or rejection of gifts or loans of public art work.

J. Oversee the maintenance, care, and record of the public art work collection.

A. Oversee the city of Sonoma's public art program and provide recommendations for strategies for implementing the public art program and expenditure of public art funds to the city council.

B. Advise the city council on establishing, shaping and refining public art policy and guidelines for the city.

C. Recommend to the city council the acceptance or rejection of gifts or loans of public artworks.

D. Review and make recommendations on public art proposals and the selection of artists for public art projects to the city council.

E. Collaborate with city staff on the development and implementation of the overall public art strategy.

F. Review and make recommendations to the city council on the design, execution, placement, and maintenance of public art installations, including but not limited to the identification of sites for exterior public artwork.

G. Advise on financial assistance, external funding sources, and support for public art initiatives.

H. Review project budgets to ensure financial accountability and sustainability for public art projects.

I. Provide reports to the city council on the accomplishments, needs, and impact of the public art program annually or at such other intervals as deemed necessary by the city council.

J. Perform other duties as assigned by the city council and/or city manager.

19.51.050 Application.

This chapter shall apply to any public development project and public art installation, including both permanent and temporary artworks, as of the date the ordinance codified in this chapter takes effect.

SECTION 2. Environmental Determination.

The City Council finds that the adoption and implementation of this ordinance are exempt for the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) in that the City Council finds there is no foreseeable possibility that the implementation of this ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment. The City Council concurs in these findings and adopts them as its own. The City Council, therefore, directs that a Notice of Exemption be filed with the County Clerk of the County of Sonoma in accordance with CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 3. Severability.

If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance shall not be affected.

Agenda Item #8.8:

SECTION 4. Effective Date.

This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 5. Publication.

This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

SECTION 6. This Ordinance Prevails Where There is Conflict.

To the extent that this Ordinance conflicts with any other provision in the Sonoma Municipal Code or city ordinance (urgency or otherwise), policy or regulation, this Ordinance will control.

Introduced and first read at a Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 18th day of December 2024.

Final passage and adoption by the City Council of the City of Sonoma was at a meeting held on the 15th of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
State of California )
County of Sonoma )
City of Sonoma )
I, Rebekah, Barr, City Clerk of the City of Sonoma, do hereby certify that the foregoing ordinance was adopted on the 15th of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.8:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Public Works
Staff Contact
Chris Pegg, PW Operations Manager
Agenda Item Title
Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Small Enterprise Agreement for Local Government Cloud-Based Geographic Information Systems Software and Support with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. and Directing the City Manager to Amend the Fiscal Year 24-25 Budget by Increasing the Management Information Services Fund Budget by $2,920.

Summary
The City of Sonoma utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software licensed from Environmental Systems Research, Inc. (ESRI, Inc.) to store, analyze, and publish critical spatial data and map resources. These resources include maps of land, buildings, addresses, zones, City boundaries, streets, and underground infrastructure, as well as online disaster response communications (e.g., evacuation maps and routes communication).

The terms and conditions of the City of Sonoma's use of this software is contained in the Small Enterprise Agreement - Local Government Cloud-Based (EA Agreement). The EA Agreement incorporates, by reference, a 3-year quote for licensing, training, and support fees.

For the next 3-year period, ESRI, Inc. has provided a quote (Exhibit B) that increases the City's existing annual licensing rate by 6.67% (a $1000/year increase) consistent with a population-based price structure for small local governments. Software licensing fees for software that supports all City departments simultaneously are budgeted for in the Management Information Services (MIS) fund. The Fiscal Year 24-25 budget for this fund would be amended to reflect this 6.67% annual price increase and provide additional budget for continued staff training and technical support on the software at a not-to-exceed amount of $1,920. The total amount of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget amendment would be $2,920 (Exhibit A).

Recommended Council Action
Adopt the resolution.

Alternative Actions
None
Financial Impact
The City's Management Information Services (MIS) will incur expenses not-to-exceed $53,760 total over a three-year period. This includes a $1000/year increase over current annual licensing fees each year and an additional $1,920/year for staff training and technical support. The expenses will be charged to account 601-64010-404-60404 designated to ESRI Agenda Item #8.9:

software.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
ESRI_EA_Agreement_Resolution
Exhibit_A_ESRI_EA_Agreement_Resolution_Budget_Adjustment_Form Exhibit B_ESRI_Quote_and_EA_Agreement_519459-20240814-1232 Alignment with Council Goals:

Not Applicable
Agenda Item #8.9:

City of Sonoma
RESOLUTION # ________ - 2025

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A SMALL ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT FOR

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CLOUD-BASED GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS SOFTWARE AND SUPPORT WITH ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, INC. AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO AMEND THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 ADOPTED BUDGET BY INCREASING THE MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SERVICES FUND BUDGET BY $2,920.

WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software licensed from Environmental Systems Research, Inc. (ESRI, Inc.) to store, analyze, and publish critical spatial data and map resources; and
WHEREAS, these resources include maps of land, buildings, addresses, zones, City boundaries, streets, underground infrastructure, as well as online disaster response communications (e.g. evacuation maps and routes communication); and
WHEREAS, the terms and conditions of the City of Sonoma's use of this software are contained in the Small Enterprise Agreement - Local Government Cloud-Based (EA Agreement); and WHEREAS, the EA Agreement incorporates by reference a 3-year quote for licensing, training, and support fees; and
WHEREAS, for the next 3-year period, ESRI, Inc. has provided a quote that increases the City's existing annual licensing rate by 6.67% (a $1000/year increase) consistent with a population-based price structure for small local governments; and
WHEREAS, additional staff training during the next 3-year period will ensure effective and reliable utilization of the licensed GIS software; and
WHEREAS, the on June 19, 2024, the City Council of the City of Sonoma adopted Resolution 42-2024 adopting the budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25; and WHEREAS, the changes in anticipated revenues and/or expenditures of the City of Sonoma necessitates amendments to the appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024-25; and WHEREAS, the budgeted expenditures do not exceed anticipated revenue and available fund balance; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget amendment;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Sonoma:

I. Authorizes the City Manager to execute a Small Enterprise Agreement for Local Government Cloud Based Geographic Information Systems software and support with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.; and
II. Adopts the budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2024-25 as contained in Exhibit A to this resolution increasing the Management Information Services fund budget by $2,920.

Agenda Item #8.9:

PASSED, RESOLVED, AND ADOPTED, at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma held on the 15th day of January 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
___________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #8.9:

Batch ID#:

Entered By:

Date:

Request Date: January 15th, 2025 Fiscal Year: 2024-25
Requesting Department: Public Works
Adjustment Description: Budget Increase for ESRI, Inc. Software Licensing Requestor: Chris Pegg, Public Works Operations Manager
Department Head Approval: Date:

Finance Review: Date:

City Manager Approval (if required)*: Date:

Net Adjustment:

Justification:

City Clerk Signature (if required)**: Date:
* City Manager Approval required for transfers between departments within the same fund, any changes to salary/benefit budgets, or matching increases to revenue and expense budgets.
** City Clerk Signature indicates that the requested Budget Adjustment was approved by Council. -
Increase / (Decrease)
$2,920.00
-

TOTAL DEBIT
The City of Sonoma utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software licensed from Environmental Systems Research, Inc. (ESRI, Inc.) to store, analyze, and publish critical spatial data and map resources. These resources include maps of land, buildings, addresses, zones, City boundaries, streets, and underground infrastructure, as well as online disaster response communications (e.g., evacuation maps and routes communication). 2,920.00

TOTAL CREDIT
Total Expenditure Adjustments: 2,920.00
Total Revenue Adjustments:

Account Description of Adjustment
601-64010-404-60404 ESRI, Inc. Software Licensing and Training/Support

EXHIBIT A
Budget Adjustment Form
Account Description of Adjustment Increase / (Decrease) Finance Department Use Only
Agenda Item #8.9:

Quotation # Q-519459
Date: August 14, 2024
Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.
380 New York St
Redlands, CA 92373-8100
Phone: (909) 793-2853
DUNS Number: 06-313-4175 CAGE Code: 0AMS3
Customer # 148115 Contract #
City of Sonoma
Planning Dept
1 The Plz
Sonoma, CA 95476-6618
To expedite your order, please attach a copy of ATTENTION: Christopher Pegg this quotation to your purchase order. PHONE: 7079332245 Quote is valid from: 8/14/2024 To: 11/12/2024 EMAIL: [email protected] Material Qty Term Unit Price Total
168362 1 Year 1 $16,000.00 $16,000.00
Population of 0 to 15,000 Small Local Government Cloud-Based Enterprise Agreement Annual Subscription 168362 1 Year 2 $16,000.00 $16,000.00
Population of 0 to 15,000 Small Local Government Cloud-Based Enterprise Agreement Annual Subscription 168362 1 Year 3 $16,000.00 $16,000.00
Population of 0 to 15,000 Small Local Government Cloud-Based Enterprise Agreement Annual Subscription 174382 6 $960.00 $5,760.00
Esri Training Pass per Day
Esri may charge a fee to cover expenses related to any customer requirement to use a proprietary vendor management, procurement, or invoice program.

For questions contact:

Peter Thomas
Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
(909) 369-2192
The items on this quotation are subject to and governed by the terms of this quotation, the most current product specific scope of use document found at https://assets.esri.com/content/dam/esrisites/media/legal/product-specific-terms-of-use/e300.pdf, and your applicable signed agreement with Esri. If no such agreement covers any item quoted, then Esri’s standard terms and conditions found at https://go.esri.com/MAPS apply to your purchase of that item. If any item is quoted with a multi-year payment schedule, then unless otherwise stated in this quotation, Customer is required to make all payments without right of cancellation. Third-party data sets included in a quotation as separately licensed items will only be provided and invoiced if Esri is able to provide such data and will be subject to the applicable third-party's terms and conditions. If Esri is unable to provide any such data set, Customer will not be responsible for any further payments for the data set. US Federal government entities and US government prime contractors authorized under FAR 51.1 may purchase under the terms of Esri’s GSA Federal Supply Schedule. Supplemental terms and conditions found at https://www.esri.com/en-us/legal/terms/state-supplemental apply to some US state and local government purchases. All terms of this quotation will be incorporated into and become part of any additional agreement regarding Esri’s offerings. Acceptance of this quotation is limited to the terms of this quotation. Esri objects to and expressly rejects any different or additional terms contained in any purchase order, offer, or confirmation sent to or to be sent by buyer. Unless prohibited by law, the quotation information is confidential and may not be copied or released other than for the express purpose of system selection and purchase/license. The information may not be given to outside parties or used for any other purpose without consent from Esri. Delivery is FOB Origin for customers located in the USA.

THOMASP This offer is limited to the terms and conditions incorporated and attached herein.

EXHIBIT B Agenda Item #8.9:

Quotation # Q-519459
Date: August 14, 2024
Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.
380 New York St
Redlands, CA 92373-8100
Phone: (909) 793-2853
DUNS Number: 06-313-4175 CAGE Code: 0AMS3
Customer # 148115 Contract #
City of Sonoma
Planning Dept
1 The Plz
Sonoma, CA 95476-6618
To expedite your order, please attach a copy of ATTENTION: Christopher Pegg this quotation to your purchase order. PHONE: 7079332245 Quote is valid from: 8/14/2024 To: 11/12/2024 EMAIL: [email protected] Subtotal: $53,760.00
Sales Tax: $0.00
Estimated Shipping and Handling (2 Day Delivery): $0.00 Contract Price Adjust: $0.00
Total: $53,760.00
Esri may charge a fee to cover expenses related to any customer requirement to use a proprietary vendor management, procurement, or invoice program.

For questions contact:

Peter Thomas
Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
(909) 369-2192
The items on this quotation are subject to and governed by the terms of this quotation, the most current product specific scope of use document found at https://assets.esri.com/content/dam/esrisites/media/legal/product-specific-terms-of-use/e300.pdf, and your applicable signed agreement with Esri. If no such agreement covers any item quoted, then Esri’s standard terms and conditions found at https://go.esri.com/MAPS apply to your purchase of that item. If any item is quoted with a multi-year payment schedule, then unless otherwise stated in this quotation, Customer is required to make all payments without right of cancellation. Third-party data sets included in a quotation as separately licensed items will only be provided and invoiced if Esri is able to provide such data and will be subject to the applicable third-party's terms and conditions. If Esri is unable to provide any such data set, Customer will not be responsible for any further payments for the data set. US Federal government entities and US government prime contractors authorized under FAR 51.1 may purchase under the terms of Esri’s GSA Federal Supply Schedule. Supplemental terms and conditions found at https://www.esri.com/en-us/legal/terms/state-supplemental apply to some US state and local government purchases. All terms of this quotation will be incorporated into and become part of any additional agreement regarding Esri’s offerings. Acceptance of this quotation is limited to the terms of this quotation. Esri objects to and expressly rejects any different or additional terms contained in any purchase order, offer, or confirmation sent to or to be sent by buyer. Unless prohibited by law, the quotation information is confidential and may not be copied or released other than for the express purpose of system selection and purchase/license. The information may not be given to outside parties or used for any other purpose without consent from Esri. Delivery is FOB Origin for customers located in the USA.

THOMASP This offer is limited to the terms and conditions incorporated and attached herein.

Agenda Item #8.9:

Quotation # Q-519459
Date: August 14, 2024
Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.
380 New York St
Redlands, CA 92373-8100
Phone: (909) 793-2853
DUNS Number: 06-313-4175 CAGE Code: 0AMS3
Customer # 148115 Contract #
City of Sonoma
Planning Dept
1 The Plz
Sonoma, CA 95476-6618
To expedite your order, please attach a copy of ATTENTION: Christopher Pegg this quotation to your purchase order. PHONE: 7079332245 Quote is valid from: 8/14/2024 To: 11/12/2024 EMAIL: [email protected] _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ If you have made ANY alterations to the line items included in this quote and have chosen to sign the quote to indicate your acceptance, you must fax Esri the signed quote in its entirety in order for the quote to be accepted. You will be contacted by your Customer Service Representative if additional information is required to complete your request.

If your organization is a US Federal, state, or local government agency; an educational facility; or a company that will not pay an invoice without having issued a formal purchase order, a signed quotation will not be accepted unless it is accompanied by your purchase order.

In order to expedite processing, please reference the quotation number and any/all applicable Esri contract number(s) (e.g. MPA, ELA, SmartBuy, GSA, BPA) on your ordering document.

BY SIGNING BELOW, YOU CONFIRM THAT YOU ARE AUTHORIZED TO OBLIGATE FUNDS FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION, AND YOU ARE AUTHORIZING ESRI TO ISSUE AN INVOICE FOR THE ITEMS INCLUDED IN THE ABOVE QUOTE IN THE AMOUNT OF $___________, PLUS SALES TAXES IF APPLICABLE. DO NOT USE THIS FORM IF YOUR ORGANIZATION WILL NOT HONOR AND PAY ESRI'S INVOICE WITHOUT ADDITIONAL AUTHORIZING PAPERWORK.

Please check one of the following:
___ I agree to pay any applicable sales tax.
___ I am tax exempt, please contact me if exempt information is not currently on file with Esri. ___________________________________________ ________________________ Signature of Authorized Representative Date
___________________________________________
Name (Please Print)
___________________________________________
Title
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The quotation information is proprietary and may not be copied or released other than for the express purpose of system selection and purchase/license. This information may not be given to outside parties or used for any other purpose without consent from Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (Esri).

Any estimated sales and/or use tax reflected on this quote has been calculated as of the date of this quotation and is merely provided as a convenience for your organization's budgetary purposes. Esri reserves the right to adjust and collect sales and/or use tax at the actual date of invoicing. If your organization is tax exempt or pays state tax directly, then prior to invoicing, your organization must provide Esri with a copy of a current tax exemption certificate issued by your state's taxing authority for the given jurisdiction.

Esri may charge a fee to cover expenses related to any customer requirement to use a proprietary vendor management, procurement, or invoice program.

For questions contact:

Peter Thomas
Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
(909) 369-2192
The items on this quotation are subject to and governed by the terms of this quotation, the most current product specific scope of use document found at https://assets.esri.com/content/dam/esrisites/media/legal/product-specific-terms-of-use/e300.pdf, and your applicable signed agreement with Esri. If no such agreement covers any item quoted, then Esri’s standard terms and conditions found at https://go.esri.com/MAPS apply to your purchase of that item. If any item is quoted with a multi-year payment schedule, then unless otherwise stated in this quotation, Customer is required to make all payments without right of cancellation. Third-party data sets included in a quotation as separately licensed items will only be provided and invoiced if Esri is able to provide such data and will be subject to the applicable third-party's terms and conditions. If Esri is unable to provide any such data set, Customer will not be responsible for any further payments for the data set. US Federal government entities and US government prime contractors authorized under FAR 51.1 may purchase under the terms of Esri’s GSA Federal Supply Schedule. Supplemental terms and conditions found at https://www.esri.com/en-us/legal/terms/state-supplemental apply to some US state and local government purchases. All terms of this quotation will be incorporated into and become part of any additional agreement regarding Esri’s offerings. Acceptance of this quotation is limited to the terms of this quotation. Esri objects to and expressly rejects any different or additional terms contained in any purchase order, offer, or confirmation sent to or to be sent by buyer. Unless prohibited by law, the quotation information is confidential and may not be copied or released other than for the express purpose of system selection and purchase/license. The information may not be given to outside parties or used for any other purpose without consent from Esri. Delivery is FOB Origin for customers located in the USA.

THOMASP This offer is limited to the terms and conditions incorporated and attached herein.

Agenda Item #8.9:

Esri Use Only:

Cust. Name
Cust. #
PO #
Esri Agreement #

SMALL ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CLOUD-BASED
(E214-7)
This Agreement is by and between the organization identified in the Quotation ("Customer") and Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. ("Esri").

This Agreement sets forth the terms for Customer's use of Products and incorporates by reference (i) the Quotation and (ii) the Master Agreement. Should there be any conflict between the terms and conditions of the documents that comprise this Agreement, the order of precedence for the documents shall be as follows: (i) the Quotation, (ii) this Agreement, and (iii) the Master Agreement. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state in which Customer is located without reference to conflict of laws principles, and the United States of America federal law shall govern in matters of intellectual property. The modifications and additional rights granted in this Agreement apply only to the Products listed in Table A.

Table A
List of Products
Uncapped Quantities
Desktop Software and Extensions (Single Use)
ArcGIS Desktop Advanced
ArcGIS Desktop Standard
ArcGIS Desktop Basic
ArcGIS Desktop Extensions: ArcGIS 3D Analyst,
ArcGIS Spatial Analyst, ArcGIS Geostatistical Analyst,
ArcGIS Publisher, ArcGIS Network Analyst, ArcGIS
Schematics, ArcGIS Workflow Manager, ArcGIS Data
Reviewer
Developer Tools
ArcGIS Runtime Standard
ArcGIS Runtime Analysis Extension
Limited Quantities
One (1) Professional subscription to ArcGIS Developer
Two (2) ArcGIS CityEngine Single Use Licenses
50 ArcGIS Online Viewers
50 ArcGIS Online Creators
10,000 ArcGIS Online Service Credits
2 ArcGIS Insights in ArcGIS Online

OTHER BENEFITS
Number of Esri User Conference registrations provided annually 2 Number of Tier 1 Help Desk individuals authorized to call Esri 2 Maximum number of sets of backup media, if requested* 2 Five percent (5%) discount on all individual commercially available instructor-led training classes at Esri facilities purchased outside this Agreement
*Additional sets of backup media may be purchased for a fee Agenda Item #8.9:

Customer may accept this Agreement by signing and returning the whole Agreement with (i) the Quotation attached, (ii) a purchase order, or (iii) another document that matches the Quotation and references this Agreement ("Ordering Document"). ADDITIONAL OR CONFLICTING TERMS IN CUSTOMER'S PURCHASE

ORDER OR OTHER DOCUMENT WILL NOT APPLY, AND THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT WILL GOVERN. This Agreement is effective as of the date of Esri's receipt of an Ordering Document, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties ("Effective Date").

Term of Agreement: Three (3) years
This Agreement supersedes any previous agreements, proposals, presentations, understandings, and arrangements between the parties relating to the licensing of the Products. Except as provided in Article 4— Product Updates, no modifications can be made to this Agreement.

Accepted and Agreed:
(Customer)
By:

Authorized Signature
Printed Name:

Title:

Date:

CUSTOMER CONTACT INFORMATION
Contact: Telephone:

Address: Fax:

City, State, Postal Code: E-mail:

Country:

Quotation Number (if applicable):

Agenda Item #8.9:

1.0—ADDITIONAL DEFINITIONS
In addition to the definitions provided in the Master
Agreement, the following definitions apply to this
Agreement:
"Case" means a failure of the Software or Online
Services to operate according to the Documentation
where such failure substantially impacts operational
or functional performance.
"Deploy", "Deployed" and "Deployment" mean to
redistribute and install the Products and related
Authorization Codes within Customer's
organization(s).
"Fee" means the fee set forth in the Quotation.
"Maintenance" means Tier 2 Support, Product
updates, and Product patches provided to Customer
during the Term of Agreement.
"Master Agreement" means the applicable master
agreement for Esri Products incorporated by this
reference that is (i) found at https://www.esri.com/enus/legal/terms/full-master-agreement and available in the installation process requiring acceptance by
electronic acknowledgment or (ii) a signed Esri
master agreement or license agreement that
supersedes such electronically acknowledged
master agreement.
"Product(s)" means the products identified in
Table A—List of Products and any updates to the list
Esri provides in writing.
"Quotation" means the offer letter and quotation
provided separately to Customer.
"Technical Support" means the technical
assistance for attempting resolution of a reported
Case through error correction, patches, hot fixes,
workarounds, replacement deliveries, or any other
type of Product corrections or modifications.
"Tier 1 Help Desk" means Customer's point of
contact(s) to provide all Tier 1 Support within
Customer's organization(s).
"Tier 1 Support" means the Technical Support
provided by the Tier 1 Help Desk.
"Tier 2 Support" means the Esri Technical Support
provided to the Tier 1 Help Desk when a Case
cannot be resolved through Tier 1 Support.

2.0—ADDITIONAL GRANT OF LICENSE

2.1 Grant of License. Subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement, Esri grants to
Customer a personal, nonexclusive,
nontransferable license solely to use, copy, and
Deploy quantities of the Products listed in
Table A—List of Products for the Term of
Agreement (i) for the applicable Fee and (ii) in
accordance with the Master Agreement.

2.2 Consultant Access. Esri grants Customer the
right to permit Customer's consultants or
contractors to use the Products exclusively for
Customer's benefit. Customer will be solely
responsible for compliance by consultants and
contractors with this Agreement and will ensure
that the consultant or contractor discontinues
use of Products upon completion of work for
Customer. Access to or use of Products by
consultants or contractors not exclusively for
Customer's benefit is prohibited. Customer may
not permit its consultants or contractors to install
Software or Data on consultant, contractor, or
third-party computers or remove Software or
Data from Customer locations, except for the
purpose of hosting the Software or Data on
Contractor servers for the benefit of Customer.

3.0—TERM, TERMINATION, AND EXPIRATION

3.1 Term. This Agreement and all licenses
hereunder will commence on the Effective Date
and continue for the duration identified in the
Term of Agreement, unless this Agreement is
terminated earlier as provided herein. Customer
is only authorized to use Products during the
Term of Agreement. For an Agreement with a
limited term, Esri does not grant Customer an
indefinite or a perpetual license to Products.

3.2 No Use upon Agreement Expiration or
Termination. All Product licenses, all
Maintenance, and Esri User Conference
registrations terminate upon expiration or
termination of this Agreement.

3.3 Termination for a Material Breach. Either party
may terminate this Agreement for a material
breach by the other party. The breaching party
will have thirty (30) days from the date of written
notice to cure any material breach.

3.4 Termination for Lack of Funds. For an
Agreement with government or governmentAgenda Item #8.9:

owned entities, either party may terminate this
Agreement before any subsequent year if
Customer is unable to secure funding through
the legislative or governing body's approval
process.

3.5 Follow-on Term. If the parties enter into
another agreement substantially similar to this
Agreement for an additional term, the effective
date of the follow-on agreement will be the day
after the expiration date of this Agreement.

4.0—PRODUCT UPDATES

4.1 Future Updates. Esri reserves the right to
update the list of Products in Table A—List of
Products by providing written notice to
Customer. Customer may continue to use all
Products that have been Deployed, but support
and upgrades for deleted items may not be
available. As new Products are incorporated into
the standard program, they will be offered to
Customer via written notice for incorporation into
the Products schedule at no additional charge.

Customer's use of new or updated Products
requires Customer to adhere to applicable
additional or revised terms and conditions in the
Master Agreement.

4.2 Product Life Cycle. During the Term of
Agreement, some Products may be retired or
may no longer be available to Deploy in the
identified quantities. Maintenance will be subject
to the individual Product Life Cycle Support
Status and Product Life Cycle Support Policy,
which can be found at
https://support.esri.com/en/otherresources/product-life-cycle. Updates for Products in the mature and retired phases may
not be available. Customer may continue to use
Products already Deployed, but Customer will
not be able to Deploy retired Products.

5.0—MAINTENANCE
The Fee includes standard maintenance benefits
during the Term of Agreement as specified in the
most current applicable Esri Maintenance and
Support Program document (found at
https://www.esri.com/enus/legal/terms/maintenance). At Esri's sole discretion, Esri may make patches, hot fixes, or
updates available for download. No Software other
than the defined Products will receive Maintenance.

Customer may acquire maintenance for other
Software outside this Agreement.
a. Tier 1 Support

1. Customer will provide Tier 1 Support
through the Tier 1 Help Desk to all
Customer's authorized users.

2. The Tier 1 Help Desk will be fully trained in
the Products.

3. At a minimum, Tier 1 Support will include
those activities that assist the user in
resolving how-to and operational questions
as well as questions on installation and
troubleshooting procedures.

4. The Tier 1 Help Desk will be the initial point
of contact for all questions and reporting of a
Case. The Tier 1 Help Desk will obtain a full
description of each reported Case and the
system configuration from the user. This
may include obtaining any customizations,
code samples, or data involved in the Case.

5. If the Tier 1 Help Desk cannot resolve the
Case, an authorized Tier 1 Help Desk
individual may contact Tier 2 Support. The
Tier 1 Help Desk will provide support in such
a way as to minimize repeat calls and make
solutions to problems available to
Customer’s organization.

6. Tier 1 Help Desk individuals are the only
individuals authorized to contact Tier 2
Support. Customer may change the Tier 1
Help Desk individuals by written notice to
Esri.
b. Tier 2 Support

1. Tier 2 Support will log the calls received
from Tier 1 Help Desk.

2. Tier 2 Support will review all information
collected by and received from the Tier 1
Help Desk including preliminary documented
troubleshooting provided by the Tier 1 Help
Desk when Tier 2 Support is required.

3. Tier 2 Support may request that Tier 1 Help
Desk individuals provide verification of
information, additional information, or
answers to additional questions to
Agenda Item #8.9:

supplement any preliminary information
gathering or troubleshooting performed by
Tier 1 Help Desk.

4. Tier 2 Support will attempt to resolve the
Case submitted by Tier 1 Help Desk.

5. When the Case is resolved, Tier 2 Support
will communicate the information to Tier 1
Help Desk, and Tier 1 Help Desk will
disseminate the resolution to the user(s).

6.0—ENDORSEMENT AND PUBLICITY
This Agreement will not be construed or interpreted
as an exclusive dealings agreement or Customer's
endorsement of Products. Either party may publicize
the existence of this Agreement.

7.0—ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

7.1 OEM Licenses. Under Esri's OEM or Solution
OEM programs, OEM partners are authorized to
embed or bundle portions of Esri products and
services with their application or service. OEM
partners' business model, licensing terms and
conditions, and pricing are independent of this
Agreement. Customer will not seek any discount
from the OEM partner or Esri based on the
availability of Products under this Agreement.

Customer will not decouple Esri products or
services from the OEM partners' application or
service.

7.2 Annual Report of Deployments. At each
anniversary date and ninety (90) calendar days
prior to the expiration of this Agreement,
Customer will provide Esri with a written report
detailing all Deployments. Upon request,
Customer will provide records sufficient to verify
the accuracy of the annual report.

8.0—ORDERING, ADMINISTRATIVE

PROCEDURES, DELIVERY, AND

DEPLOYMENT

8.1 Orders, Delivery, and Deployment
a. Upon the Effective Date, Esri will invoice
Customer and provide Authorization Codes to
activate the nondestructive copy protection
program that enables Customer to download,
operate, or allow access to the Products. If this
is a multi-year Agreement, Esri may invoice the
Fee up to thirty (30) calendar days before the
annual anniversary date for each year.
b. Undisputed invoices will be due and payable
within thirty (30) calendar days from the date of
invoice. Esri reserves the right to suspend
Customer's access to and use of Products if
Customer fails to pay any undisputed amount
owed on or before its due date. Esri may charge
Customer interest at a monthly rate equal to the
lesser of one percent (1.0%) per month or the
maximum rate permitted by applicable law on
any overdue fees plus all expenses of collection
for any overdue balance that remains unpaid
ten (10) days after Esri has notified Customer of
the past-due balance.
c. Esri's federal ID number is 95-2775-732.
d. If requested, Esri will ship backup media to the
ship-to address identified on the Ordering
Document, FOB Destination, with shipping
charges prepaid. Customer acknowledges that
should sales or use taxes become due as a
result of any shipments of tangible media, Esri
has a right to invoice and Customer will pay any
such sales or use tax associated with the receipt
of tangible media.

8.2 Order Requirements. Esri does not require
Customer to issue a purchase order. Customer
may submit a purchase order in accordance with
its own process requirements, provided that if
Customer issues a purchase order, Customer
will submit its initial purchase order on the
Effective Date. If this is a multi-year Agreement,
Customer will submit subsequent purchase
orders to Esri at least thirty (30) calendar days
before the annual anniversary date for each
year.
a. All orders pertaining to this Agreement will be
processed through Customer's centralized point
of contact.
b. The following information will be included in
each Ordering Document:
(1) Customer name; Esri customer number, if
known; and bill-to and ship-to addresses
(2) Order number
(3) Applicable annual payment due
Agenda Item #8.9:

9.0—MERGERS, ACQUISITIONS, OR

DIVESTITURES
If Customer is a commercial entity, Customer will
notify Esri in writing in the event of (i) a
consolidation, merger, or reorganization of Customer
with or into another corporation or entity;
(ii) Customer's acquisition of another entity; or (iii) a transfer or sale of all or part of Customer's
organization (subsections i, ii, and iii, collectively
referred to as "Ownership Change"). There will be
no decrease in Fee as a result of any Ownership
Change.

9.1 If an Ownership Change increases the
cumulative program count beyond the maximum
level for this Agreement, Esri reserves the right
to increase the Fee or terminate this Agreement
and the parties will negotiate a new agreement.

9.2 If an Ownership Change results in transfer or
sale of a portion of Customer's organization, that
portion of Customer's organization will transfer
the Products to Customer or uninstall, remove,
and destroy all copies of the Products.

9.3 This Agreement may not be assigned to a
successor entity as a result of an Ownership
Change unless approved by Esri in writing in
advance. If the assignment to the new entity is
not approved, Customer will require any
successor entity to uninstall, remove, and
destroy the Products. This Agreement will
terminate upon such Ownership Change.

Agenda Item #8.9:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Community Development
Department
Staff Contact
Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development
Director
Agenda Item Title
Discussion, Consideration, and Possible Introduction of City Council Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 19.88.020 (Notice of Hearing), and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines.

Summary
Government Code Sections 65090 through 65096 provide the rules for noticing public hearings under the Planning and Zoning law, including timelines, distances requirements, mailing, publication, and other requirements. The City’s Municipal Code Section 19.88.020 (Notice of Hearings) provides the City’s public hearing requirements that meet or exceed the requirements in the Planning and Zoning law. Staff is proposing amendments of Section

19.88.020 to clarify and amend the existing requirements consistent with State regulations and implement Assembly Bill 2904 (“AB 2904”).

On September 27, 2024, Governor Newsom signed into law AB 2904, which amends Government Code Section 65854 by increasing the required noticing period for a proposed zoning ordinance or amendment affecting permitted uses of real property from 10 to 20 days.

Staff is proposing to add this requirement to the Code. In addition, staff proposes the following clarifications:
 Publication – Reduce newspaper advertisement from two Fridays to one Friday.  Mailed notices – Clarify tenants on the site and within 100 feet will be mailed a notice instead of Director discretion.
 Posting – Clarify the agenda will be posted at City Hall.  Posted Notice - Require a signed affidavit from the applicant that the posting has occurred on their site.

Topic Current Requirement Proposed Change
Publication Two consecutive Fridays One Friday
Mailed Notices
Property Owners within 500
feet (300 feet required by
state law)
Tenants at Planning Director
discretion
Property Owners within 500
feet
Tenants on site and within
100 feet
Posting
Three locations (was
combined with posted
notice)
Agenda will be posted at
City Hall
Posted Notice Three locations Only on-site and require a signed affidavit of posting
Agenda Item #9.1:

Notice period 10 days
10 days for hearings not
concerning a zoning
ordinance amendment, e.g.,
land use permits and
appeals.
20 days zoning ordinance or
amendment affecting
permitted uses of real
property (AB 2904)
On December 19, 2024, Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the City Council Ordinance with no modifications.

Recommended Council Action
Introduce the Ordinance amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 19.88.020 (Notice of Hearing), and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Draft Ordinance - Public Notice
Exhibit A SMC 19.88.020 Amendment
AB 2904
Public Hearing Government Code
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #9.1:

City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE #_____ - 2025

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA AMENDING SONOMA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 19.88.020 (NOTICE OF HEARING) AND FINDING

THIS ACTION IS EXEMPT FROM FURTHER ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE

GENERAL RULE IN CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3).

WHEREAS, Government Code Sections 65090 – 65096 & 65854 provide the provisions for notices of public hearings under the Planning and Zoning Law; and WHEREAS, on September 27, 2024, Governor Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 2904 (“AB 2904”), which amends Government Code Section 65854 by increasing the required noticing period for a proposed zoning ordinance or amendment from 10 to 20 days; and WHEREAS, state law allows a local agency to adopt additional noticing requirements if deemed necessary or desired; and
WHEREAS, the City of Sonoma desires to amend Section 19.88.020 of the Sonoma Municipal Code to clarify noticing requirements and to implement AB 2904; and WHEREAS, adoption of this Ordinance is consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of Sonoma General Plan, would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city, and is internally consistent with other applicable provisions of the City’s development code for the reasons expressed in this Ordinance, the accompanying staff reports, and other substantial evidence presented; and WHEREAS, the proposed Ordinance was reviewed by the Planning Commission at a duly noticed public hearing on December 19, 2024, at which the Planning Commission voted to recommend approval; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Ordinance was introduced by the Sonoma City Council on January 15, 2025.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. RECITALS
The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the City Council.

SECTION 2. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENTS
The Sonoma Municipal Code Section 19.88.020 is hereby amended as shown in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.

SECTION 3. FINDINGS FOR DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENTS
Agenda Item #9.1:

Pursuant to Section 19.86.070(B) of the Sonoma Municipal Code, the proposed amendments of the development code under this ordinance are:

A. The proposed amendment is consistent with the goal, policies, and actions of the General Plan;
The City of Sonoma Development Code carries out the policies and implementation measures of the General Plan and State Law. Consistency between Sections of the Development Code and State Law ensure accuracy of the Development Code review process and therefore the amendments are consistent with the goals, policies, and actions of the General Plan.

B. The proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city;
The proposed amendment is to amend the noticing requirements for public hearings as required by state law. Therefore the proposed amendment would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the city.

C. Comply with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as described in Section 4 below; and
The amendments fall under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061 (B)(3) General Rule. The General Rule, also known as the “Common Sense Exemption” applies to projects in which it is clear and definitive that the project will not have any significant impacts on the environments.

D. The proposed amendment is internally consistent with other applicable provisions of this development code.

The purpose of the amendments is to create consistency with applicable provisions of the development code and state law for public noticing requirements to improve clarity on the post-approval procedures for staff, applicants, and residents.

SECTION 4. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
This Ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the city. City Planning Staff has determined that the adoption and implementation of the Ordinance is exempt from further environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. As a series of text amendments and additions without any physical project being approved, and not involving a commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment, it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The City Council concurs in these findings and adopts them as its own. The City Council, therefore, directs that a Notice of Exemption be filed with the County Clerk of the County of Sonoma in accordance with CEQA Guidelines.

Agenda Item #9.1:

SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 7. PUBLICATION
This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

SECTION 8. THIS ORDINANCE PREVAILS WHERE THERE IS CONFLICT To the extent that this Ordinance conflicts with any other provision in the Sonoma Municipal Code or city ordinance (urgency or otherwise), policy or regulation, this Ordinance will control.

Introduced and first read at a Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 15th day of January 2025.

Final passage and adoption by the City Council of the City of Sonoma was at a meeting held on the ____ of _____ 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
State of California )
County of Sonoma )
City of Sonoma )
I, Rebekah, Barr, City Clerk of the City of Sonoma, do hereby certify that the foregoing ordinance was adopted on the _____ of ______ 2025, by the following vote:

Agenda Item #9.1:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.1:

EXHIBIT A
The following section of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows (strikeout is used to denote existing text being deleted; underline is used to denote new text being added):

19.88.020 Notice of hearing.

When a land use permit or other matter requires a public hearing, the public shall be provided notice of the hearing in compliance with state law (Government Code Section 65090 et seq.), and as required by this chapter.

A. Contents of Notice. Notice of a public hearing shall include:

1. Hearing Information. The date, time, and place of the hearing and the name of the hearing body; and the phone number and street address of the planning division, where an interested person could call or visit to obtain additional information;

2. Project Information. The name of the applicant; a general explanation of the matter to be considered; a general description, in text and/or by diagram, of the location of the property that is the subject of the hearing; and any proposed CEQA determination.

B. Minimum Method of Notice Distribution. Notice of a public hearing required by this chapter for a land use permit, amendment, or appeal shall be given as follows, as required by state law (Government Code Sections 65090 and 65091), and by all of shall be given by the following methods:

1. Publication. Notice published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the city at least 10 days before the hearing, with an additional publication thereafter.

2. Mailing. Notice mailed or delivered at least 10 days, or 20 days for ordinances affecting permitted uses of real property, before the hearing to the following:
a. Owner(s) of Proposed Site. The owner(s) of the property being considered in the application, or the owner’s agent, and the applicant;
b. Local Agencies. Each local agency expected to provide schools, water, or other essential facilities or services to the project, whose ability to provide the facilities and services may be significantly affected;
c. Affected Owners. All owners of real property as shown on the latest Sonoma County equalized assessment roll, within a radius of 500 feet of the exterior boundaries of the Agenda Item #9.1:

parcel that is the subject of the hearing; and any other person whose property might, in the judgment of the city plannerdirector, be affected by the proposed project; d. Notice to Tenants. Each residential and/or commercial tenant located within the project site and/or one hundred feet of the property line of the project site. e. Persons Requesting Notice. Any person who has filed a written request for notice with the city plannerdirector and has paid the required fee for the notice.

3. Posting. The agenda for the public hearing shall be posted at city hall. Notice posted in at least three public places within the boundaries of the local agency, including one public place on the site (if applicable) directly affected by the proceeding and including the notice board at City Hall and Police Station/City Council Chambers.

4. a. Posted Notice. A poster or posters with minimum dimensions of 11 by 17 inches, including the content set forth in subsection (A) of this section, shall be placed by the project applicant at the subject property and for the entire duration of the notification period as set forth herein.

One poster shall be required for each street frontage of the subject property. For example, two posters would be required for a corner lot. The project applicant must submit a signed affidavit in a form provided by the community development department that states the property sign has been installed consistent with the terms of this section and these standards along with a photo of the sign on site.

C. Additional Notice to Tenants. As deemed necessary by the city planner.

D. Alternative to Mailing. If the number of property owners to whom notice would be mailed in compliance with subsection (B)(2) of this section is more than 1,000, the city plannerdirector may choose to provide the alternative notice allowed by state law (Government Code Section 65091(a)(3)) by placing a display advertisement of at least one-eighth page in a newspaper of general circulation in the city at least 10 days before the hearing, , or 20 days before the hearing for ordinances affecting permitted uses of real property.

E. Large Project Posting. In addition to the types of notice required above, posting shall be required for specified projects, as follows:

1. Applicable Projects. Provisions for a large project posting shall apply to the following types of projects:
a. Applications for residential development that would result in five or more new units or parcels;
Agenda Item #9.1:

b. Applications for commercial or mixed use development that would result in the creation of 2,500 square feet or more of new commercial building area.

2. Size and Placement. A large project posting shall consist of a minimum 24-inch by 36-inch sign board, securely mounted on posts with a minimum clearance of three feet, placed on the property that is the subject of the application. The posting shall be placed so that it is clearly visible and readable from a public right-of-way.

3. Content. Information provided on the posting shall include the following: the name of the applicant; a general description of the application; the property address; a telephone number for a project contact; and the phone number and street address of the planning division, where an interested person could call or visit to obtain additional information. In addition, the words “Proposed Development Project” shall appear at the top of the sign, with a minimum letter height of three inches.

4. Maintenance on Property. The placement of a large project posting consistent with the provisions of this section shall be considered an application submittal requirement. The posting shall occur upon submittal of an application for a planning or subdivision permit and the posting shall be maintained in good order until such time as the application has been decided.

5. Responsibility of Applicant. The fabrication, placement and maintenance of a large project posting shall be the sole responsibility of the project applicant.

F. Applications for Drive-Through Facilities. Whenever a hearing is held on a permit for a new drive-through facility or the modification of an existing drive-through facility, the city shall incorporate, where necessary, notice procedures for the blind, aged and disabled communities in order to facilitate their participation in any hearing on, or appeal of the denial of, the permit application.

G. Additional Notice. In addition to the types of notice required above, the city plannerdirector may provide any additional notice with content or using a distribution method as the city plannerdirector determines is necessary or desirable.

H. Resolution of Conflicting Requirements. In situations where noticing requirements established by the state or federal government require public notice in a manner that conflicts with the provisions of this section, the applicable state or federal requirements shall prevail.

Agenda Item #9.1:

Assembly Bill No. 2904
CHAPTER 747
An act to amend Section 65854 of the Government Code, relating to land use.
[Approved by Governor September 27, 2024. Filed with
Secretary of State September 27, 2024.]
legislative counsel’s digest
AB 2904, Quirk-Silva. Zoning ordinances: notice.

Existing law requires the planning commission to hold a public hearing on any zoning ordinance or an amendment to a zoning ordinance that changes any property from one zone to another. Existing law, if the proposed ordinance or amendment to a zoning ordinance affects the permitted uses of real property, requires notice of the hearing to be, among other things, mailed or delivered at least 10 days prior to the hearing to the owner of the subject real property, as specified.

This bill would instead require notice of the planning commission’s hearing on a proposed zoning ordinance or amendment to a zoning ordinance, if the proposed ordinance or amendment to a zoning ordinance affects the permitted uses of real property, to be published, posted, mailed, and delivered, or advertised, as applicable, at least 20 days before the hearing.

By imposing increased noticing requirements on a local government that considers a zoning ordinance or amendment to a zoning ordinance, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The bill would include findings that changes proposed by this bill address a matter of statewide concern rather than a municipal affair and, therefore, apply to all cities, including charter cities.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

The people of the State of California do enact as follows:

SECTION 1. Section 65854 of the Government Code is amended to read:
65854. (a)  The planning commission shall hold a public hearing on the proposed zoning ordinance or amendment to a zoning ordinance.

95 Agenda Item #9.1:

(b)  (1)  Except as provided in paragraph (2), notice of the hearing shall be given pursuant to Section 65090.
(2)  If a proposed ordinance or amendment to a zoning ordinance affects the permitted uses of real property, notice of the hearing shall be given pursuant to Sections 65090 and 65091, except that the notice shall be published, posted, mailed, and delivered, or advertised, as applicable, at least 20 days before the hearing.

SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares that ensuring sufficient notice of zoning ordinance changes that could affect property rights is a matter of statewide concern and is not a municipal affair as that term is used in Section 5 of Article XI of the California Constitution. Therefore, Section 1 of this act amending Section 65854 of the Government Code applies to all cities, including charter cities.

SEC. 3. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4 of Title 2 of the Government Code.

O
95 Ch. 747 — 2 —
Agenda Item #9.1:

_ Mm? .3 .7 - LEGISLATIVE INFORMATION
Agenda Item #9.1:

Agenda Item #9.1:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Public Works
Staff Contact
Ashley Cotter, PW Admin & Project Manager,
Michael Berger, Public Works Director
Agenda Item Title
Introduce an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 10.52.20, Curb Markings to Indicate No Stopping and Parking Regulations, and Repealing Municipal Code Section

10.48.160 and Finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines.

Summary
Green curbs are utilized at various locations throughout the Plaza and along Broadway for businesses and restaurants that need reserved brief parking for quick bank transactions, picking up take-out orders, or quick pick-up items. Green curbs are designated for a brief period of time, whereas a standard parking stall at the Plaza or on Broadway has the City standard 3-hour parking limit. Currently, the green curb signs installed on the Plaza state that parking is limited to 15 minutes only.

Currently, Sonoma Municipal Code Section 10.52.20 states that green curb marking shall mean no standing or parking for a period of time longer than 24 minutes at any time between 9:00am and 6:00pm on any day except Sunday(s) and holidays. This would be amended to:

Green curb marking shall mean no standing or parking for a period of time longer than 15 minutes at any time on any day. The green curb signs installed on the Plaza state that parking is limited to 15 minutes only. This ordinance would bring the Municipal Code in line with the current posted signage.

This ordinance also repeals Section 10.48.160 - Twenty-four-minute parking. With the amendments to Municipal Code Section 10.52.160, there is no more 24-minute parking.

The Plaza/near Plaza locations proposed for green curbs installed outside of the listed businesses are below (many of these locations already have an existing drop-off/pickup green zone), and a site plan is attached:
1) Crown Cleaners
2) Union Bank (Broadway Entrance)
3) Union Bank (East Napa Entrance)
4) The Red Grape
5) El Dorado Hotel (First Street West)
6) El Dorado Kitchen Pick Up (West Spain Street)
7) Sonoma Hotel (West Spain Street near Girl and the Fig) 8) Mary's Pizza Shack
9) Toscano Hotel (Visitor's Bureau)
10) Between B&V Whiskey Bar and Grille and La Casa Restaurant and Bar 11) Between Sweet Scoops and The Plaza Bistro
12) Between Maya Restaurant and Della Santina
Agenda Item #9.2:

These locations reflect requested green curb installations, as well as locations staff deemed to be useful for businesses on the Plaza that have robust to-go operations or a need for reserved-short term parking. Public Works and Community Development staff worked together with the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to compile the locations for green curb installations. The Chamber of Commerce reviewed the final list and confirmed there are no outstanding requests.

The City Council has authority under Vehicle Code Section 22507 and Sonoma Municipal Code Section 10.48.190 to establish parking regulations by resolution. As a result, and if the listed locations above are approved by City Council, staff will bring a resolution designating the above listed locations as 15-minute parking only at the second reading and adoption of the proposed ordinance.

Recommended Council Action

1. Introduce an ordinance amending Sonoma Municipal Code Section 10.52.20, Curb Markings to Indicate No Stopping and Parking Regulations, and Repealing Municipal Code Chapter 10.48.160 and finding the Ordinance Exempt from the California Environmental Act (CEQA) Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) - General Rule - of the CEQA Guidelines

2. Approve green curb installation locations
Alternative Actions

1. Introduce a modified version of the Ordinance.

2. Do not introduce the ordinance and provide direction to staff.

3. Council's discretion.

Financial Impact
There are no financial impacts at this time.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Site Plan and List of Locations
Green Curb Ordinance
Alignment with Council Goals:

Not Applicable
Agenda Item #9.2:

Site Plan – Estimated locations, not drawn to scale. Each line indicates one parking space replaced with green curb.

Agenda Item #9.2:

Location 1: Crown Cleaners
Location 2: Union Bank (Broadway)
Location 3: Union Bank (East Napa)
Location 4: Red Grape
Location 5: El Dorado Hotel
Location 6: El Dorado Kitchen pick up
Location 7: Sonoma Hotel (Girl and the Fig)
Location 8: Mary’s Pizza Shack
Location 9: Toscano Hotel (Visitor’s Bureau)
Location 10: Between B&V and La Casa
Location 11: Between Sweet Scoops and Plaza Bistro
Location 12: Between Maya and Della Santina
Agenda Item #9.2:

City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE #_______ - 2025

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA AMENDING SONOMA MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 10.52.020 , REPEALING SECTION 10.48.160

TWENTY-FOUR-MINUTE PARKING, AND FINDING THIS ACTION IS EXEMPT FROM

FURTHER ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE GENERAL RULE IN CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a noticed public hearing on January 15, 2025, for the purpose of considering the proposed amendments to the Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the City Council has duly considered all testimony presented at the public hearings, and the evaluation and recommendations from staff; and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to the Sonoma Municipal Code set forth hereinbelow are consistent with state law.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the City Council.

SECTION 2: Section 10.52.020(D) Curb markings to indicate no stopping and parking regulations of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows (strikeout is used to denote existing text being deleted; underline is used to denote new text being added):

When authorized signs or curb markings have been determined by the city traffic engineer or city council to be necessary and are in place giving notice thereof, no operator of any vehicle shall stop, stand or park the vehicle adjacent to any such legible curb marking or sign in violation thereof. The city public works superintendent is authorized to place the following curb markings to indicate parking or standing regulations, and The curb markings shall have the meanings as herein set forth:

A. Red means no stopping, standing or parking at any time except as permitted by the Vehicle Code, and except that a bus may stop in a red zone marked or signed as a bus zone; B. Yellow means no stopping, standing or parking at any time between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on any day except Sunday(s) and holiday(s) for any purpose other than the loading or unloading of passengers or materials;
C. White means no stopping, standing or parking for any purpose other than loading or unloading of passengers, or for the purpose of depositing mail in an adjacent mailbox, which shall not exceed three minutes and such restrictions shall apply between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. of any day except Sunday(s) and holiday(s);
Agenda Item #9.2:

D. Green curb marking shall mean no standing or parking for a period of time longer than 24 fifteen minutes at any time between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on any day except Sunday(s) and holidays;
E. It is unlawful for any person in charge of any vehicle to permit such vehicle to remain standing at any time for a continuous period of time longer than two hours as posted at locations so designated for two-hour parking, except by permit as provided in SMC 10.48.260.

SECTION 3: Section 10.48.160 Twenty-four-minute parking of the Sonoma Municipal Code is hereby repealed.

SECTION 4. CEQA
This Ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the city. City Planning Staff has determined that the adoption and implementation of the Ordinance is exempt from further environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. The City Council concurs in these findings and adopts them as its own. The City Council, therefore, directs that a Notice of Exemption be filed with the County Clerk of the County of Sonoma in accordance with CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 5. Severability.

If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.

The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date.

This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 7. Publication.

This ordinance shall be published in accordance with the provisions of Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

SECTION 8. This Ordinance Prevails Where There is Conflict.

To the extent that this Ordinance conflicts with any other provision in the Sonoma Municipal Code or city ordinance (urgency or otherwise), policy or regulation, this Ordinance will control.

Agenda Item #9.2:

Introduced and first read at a Regular Meeting of the City Council on the 15th of January 2025.

Final passage and adoption by the City Council of the City of Sonoma was at a meeting held on the ______ of _______ 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
State of California )
County of Sonoma )
City of Sonoma )
I, Rebekah, Barr, City Clerk of the City of Sonoma, do hereby certify that the foregoing ordinance was adopted on the ____ of ______ 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.2:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Finance
Staff Contact
Alicia Formato, Accounting Technician
Agenda Item Title
Consideration, Discussion, and Possible Action to Introduce an Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code, Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations, Sections 5.04.110, 5.04.200,

5.04.290, and 5.08.075.

Summary
The proposed amendments to the Business License and Regulations reflect the Finance Department’s initiative to address inconsistencies within the City of Sonoma’s Municipal Code (SMC). Staff has identified discrepancies in the code that no longer align with current operational procedures.

Section 5.04.110, titled “Renewal of license,” states that, when a business wishes to renew its business license, the business must provide the City with a sworn statement containing the information necessary for renewal before July 1st of each year. However, this conflicts with the City’s practice of having all business licenses expire on December 31st, requiring renewal before the end of the calendar year. To make this section consistent with the City’s process of using calendar years for business license renewals, we propose amending this section to require the sworn statement before January instead of July.

Section 5.04.200, titled “License Tax - How and When Payable,” states that the business license tax is due on July 1st. Again, this conflicts with the City’s practice of having all business licenses expire on December 31st. The business license tax is typically collected and issued for the full calendar year, or prorated if issued after July 1st. The proposed ordinance would amend section 5.04.200 to require payment before December 31st, instead of July 1st, consistent with City practice. Additionally, we propose removing Sections A through F in this section in their entirety as the City does not provide license terms other than annual and pro-rated.

Section 5.04.290, titled “Partial Refund of Annual Tax,” states that any person who has paid an annual business license tax in advance and terminates the business during the first half of the fiscal year is eligible for a refund. Consistent with the City’s practice of using calendar years for business license renewals, we propose amending this section to refer to the calendar year instead of the fiscal year. Additionally, the application for refund requests should be directed to the Finance Director, rather than the City Clerk.

Section 5.08.075, titled “Automatic Adjustment in License Tax Based on Per Capita Income within the State,” specifies that if there is an increase or decrease in per capita income, the City Clerk shall make a corresponding adjustment to the license tax rate, rounded to the nearest full dollar, for the succeeding fiscal year. The proposed ordinance would transfer this responsibility from the City Clerk to the Finance Director.

The proposed changes to the ordinance aim to align the City of Sonoma’s Business License regulations with current practices and improve operational efficiency.

Agenda Item #9.3:

Recommended Council Action
Introduce the Ordinance Amending Sonoma Municipal Code Title 5 Business Licenses and Regulations, Sections 5.04.110, 5.04.200, 5.04.290, and 5.08.075.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
Not applicable.

Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Business License Draft Ordinance
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #9.3:

City of Sonoma
ORDINANCE # - 2025

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA AMENDING SECTIONS 5.04.110, 5.04.200, 5.04.290, AND 5.08.075 AND OF THE SONOMA

MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING BUSINESS LICENSE TAX PAYMENTS, REFUNDS,

AND ADJUSTMENTS
WHEREAS, the Finance Department has identified inconsistencies in the Sonoma Municipal Code (SMC) regarding the payment due date for business licenses, refund procedures, and the authority for adjusting the business license tax rate based on per capita income; and
WHEREAS, these inconsistencies need to be addressed to ensure clarity, efficiency, and alignment with current business license practices; and WHEREAS, on January 15th, 2025 the City Council reviewed the proposed amendments and determined that aligning the business license regulations with current procedures would improve consistency and streamline administrative functions; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendments to the Sonoma Municipal Code set forth hereinbelow are consistent with state law.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONOMA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1: The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings by the City Council.

SECTION 2: The following sections of the Sonoma Municipal Code are hereby amended to read as follows (strikeout is used to denote existing text being deleted; underline is used to denote new text being added):

5.04.110 Renewal of license.

In all cases, the applicant for the renewal of a license shall submit to the collector on or before July January 1st an application for renewal containing a sworn statement upon a form to be provided by the collector, setting forth such information concerning the applicant’s business during the preceding calendar year as may be required by the collector to enable him to verify the amount of the license tax to be paid by the applicant pursuant to the provisions of Chapters 5.04 and 5.08 SMC.

5.04.200 License tax – How and when payable.

Unless otherwise specifically provided, all annual license taxes under the provisions of Chapters 5.04 and 5.08 SMC shall be due and payable in advance on the first day of July January of each year; provided, that license taxes covering new operations, commenced after the first day of January July, may be prorated 50 percent for the final six months of the license period. For new businesses within the city the business license Agenda Item #9.3:

tax shall become due prior to the opening of the business but no later than five days after mailing a notice of the amount of such tax by the tax collector.

Except as otherwise herein provided, license taxes, other than annual, required hereunder shall be due and payable as follows:

A. Semiannual license taxes on the first day of July and the first day of January of each fiscal year;
B. Quarterly license taxes on the first day of July, October, January, April of each fiscal year;
C. Monthly license taxes on the first day of each and every month; D. Weekly flat-rate license taxes on Monday of each week in advance; E. Daily flat-rate license taxes each day in advance;
F. Other flat-rate license taxes are payable in advance on the first day of business and thereafter on the first day of any applicable period.

5.04.290 Partial refund of annual tax.

Effective July 1, 1975, any person who has paid an annual business license tax in advance and who terminates the subject business during the first half of the fiscal calendar year for which the tax is paid may have a refund of one-half the annual tax on condition that application is made to the city clerk finance director within 30 days after the date on which the business is terminated.

5.08.075 Automatic adjustment in license tax based on per capita income within the state.

The rate of the license tax payable for the license period beginning July 1st and each year thereafter shall be adjusted upward or downward automatically as follows:

Beginning July 1, 1980, each flat rate tax shall be adjusted upward or downward automatically in proportion to the increase or decrease of per capita income within the state as reported officially by the executive department of the state for the annual period ending the preceding March 31st. The flat rate tax in effect for the year beginning July 1, 1979, shall be used as the base. If there is either an increase or decrease in such per capita income, the city clerk finance director shall make a corresponding adjustment in the rate of license tax, rounded off to the nearest full dollar, payable for the succeeding fiscal year. The annual maximum increase in the sale of the license tax shall not exceed eight percent in one fiscal year.

SECTION 3. CEQA. This ordinance has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the city. City Staff has determined that the adoption and implementation of the ordinance is exempt from further environmental review under the general rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. As a text amendment and addition without any physical project being approved, it can be seen with certainty that Agenda Item #9.3:

there is no possibility that the ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment.

The proposed ordinance is therefore exempt from the provisions of CEQA because it does not involve a commitment to any specific project that may result in a potentially significant physical impact on the environment. The City Council concurs in these findings and adopts them as its own. The City Council, therefore, directs that a Notice of Exemption be filed with the County Clerk of the County of Sonoma in accordance with CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 4: Severability. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, despite the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 5. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after passage thereof.

SECTION 6. Publication. This ordinance shall be published in accordance with Government Code section 36933, subdivision (c)(1).

INTRODUCED and first read at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 15th day of January 2025.

PASSED, RESOLVED, AND ADOPTED, at a Regular Meeting of the City of Sonoma on this ___ day of February 2025, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________________
Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Mayor
ATTEST
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
State of California )
County of Sonoma)
City of Sonoma )
I HEREBY CERTIFY the foregoing ordinance was introduced at a Regular Meeting of the City of Sonoma City Council held on the 15th day of January 2025, and was duly adopted at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Sonoma held on this ___ day of February 2025, by the following vote:

Agenda Item #9.3:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
__________________________________
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item #9.3:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
City Council
Staff Contact
Rebekah Barr, MMC, City Clerk
Agenda Item Title
Selection of the 2025 City of Sonoma Alcalde
Summary
History of the Alcalde from the Alcalde Selection Policy Alcaldes in California came about through the rise of the pueblo system and the establishment of town councils (called ayuntamientos). The councils were headed by mayors (called alcaldes), and together they provided a semblance of government, hearing a wide range of issues from land disputes to criminal matters. The annually elected alcalde was not only the chief local law practitioner but also judge, justice of the peace (if no one else filled that function), notary public, recorder, escrow agent in land transactions, boss of the town Council, and was probably the town's most useful citizen. He often had to rule on disputes over cattle, horses, branding irons, hides, horse race wagers, bankruptcy, adoption, promissory notes, barrels of wine, and vacant lands. Alcaldes were the recorders of mortgages, wills, and conveyances and also had to deal with criminal activity, including murder.

The Alcalde's position and importance did not end with Mexican Rule. In his speech following the raising of the American Flag over Monterey on July 7, 1846, Commodore John Sloat restated the importance of Alcaldes and invited them to continue to execute their duties. The function of alcaldes did not legally change until after the state Constitution was adopted, and duties previously performed by one person were separated into several positions. Today the Spanish word “alcalde” literally means Mayor.

In 1975, the City of Sonoma decided to once again find "the town's most useful citizen" and bestow upon them the title Honorary Alcalde. August Pinelli, the first to be honored, began his year January 1, 1976. The Council has voted for an “honorary Alcalde” every year since. The honoree is given a silver-headed cane as a symbol of the honor and appears in parades and at grand openings. The honoree is also recognized with a reception hosted by the City with help from the past Alcaldes where their contributions are celebrated. 2025 Alcalde Selection
Pursuant to the Alcalde Selection Policy (attached), the Nominating Committee met on January 14, 2025, to review nominations received in response to the required marketing and outreach. The nominating committee was comprised of Mayor Farrar-Rivas, current Alcalde Wayne Schake, past Alcalde Bill Lynch, past Alcalde Steve Page, and City Manager David Guhin.

As stated in the City Council's adopted policy, Alcalde nominees shall have accomplished several of the following:

Agenda Item #10.1:

 Participated in a broad spectrum of voluntary community service to Sonoma Valley;  Served in a leadership role in at least one non-profit organization;  Spearheaded at least one community-serving project without compensation;  Be well-known for consistent behind-the-scenes good deeds;  Does not seek public accolades or recognition for work done; and,  Adheres to a high standard of moral and ethical values.

Other Criteria:
 Nominee must reside in the City of Sonoma or Sonoma Valley.  Nominees may be either an individual or a couple.

The committee members reviewed nominations submitted. As always, many nominations were received recommending deserving community members. In accordance with the Alcalde Selection Policy which was updated in November 2018, the nominating committee put forward three candidates for the Mayor’s consideration. Mayor Farrar-Rivas will announce the name of her nominee for the 2025 Alcalde or Alcaldessa at the January 15, 2025, regular Council meeting and the City Council will be asked to ratify the nomination.

Recommended Council Action
Receive and ratify the nomination of the 2025 Alcalde from Mayor Farrar-Rivas.

Alternative Actions
Council discretion.

Financial Impact
N/A
Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Alcalde Selection Policy
Alignment with Council Goals:

Not Applicable
Agenda Item #10.1:

ALCALDE SELECTION PROCESS, ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
City Council Approved 11/5/2018
Each year, the City Council of the City of Sonoma selects a citizen of the year who is called the honorary Alcalde. This policy outlines the selection, criteria, and role of the honored person.

ORIGIN OF ALCALDES
Alcaldes in California came about through the rise of the pueblo system and the establishment of town councils (called ayuntamientos). The councils were headed by mayors (called alcaldes), and together they provided a semblance of government, hearing a wide range of issues from land disputes to criminal matters.

The annually elected alcalde was not only the chief local law practitioner, but judge, justice of the peace (if no one else filled that function), notary public, recorder, escrow agent in land transactions, boss of the town Council, and was probably the town's most useful citizen. He often had to rule on disputes over cattle, horses, branding irons, hides, horse race wagers, bankruptcy, adoption, promissory notes, barrels of wine, and vacant lands.

Alcaldes were the recorders of mortgages, wills, and conveyances, and also had to deal with criminal activity includingmurder.

The Alcalde's position and importance did not end with Mexican Rule. In his speech following the raising of the American Flag over Monterey on July 7, 1846, Commodore John Sloat restated the importance of alcaldes and invited them to continue to execute their duties. The function of alcaldes did not legally change until after the state Constitution was adopted, and duties previously performed by one person were separated into several positions. Today the Spanish word “alcalde” literally means Mayor.

In 1975, the City of Sonoma decided to once again find "the town's most useful citizen" and bestow upon them the title Honorary Alcalde. August Pinelli, the first to be honored, began his year January 1, 1976. The Council has voted for an “honorary Alcalde” every year since.

The honoree is given a silver-headed cane as a symbol of the honor and appears in parades and at grand openings. The honoree is also recognized with a reception hosted by the City with help from the past Alcaldes where their contributions are celebrated.

Agenda Item #10.1:

CRITERIA FOR SELECTION
The Nominee shall have accomplished several of the following:
▪ Participated in a broad spectrum of voluntary community service to Sonoma Valley; ▪ Served in a leadership role in at least one non-profit organization; ▪ Spearheaded at least one community-serving project withoutcompensation; ▪ Be well-known for consistent behind-the-scenes gooddeeds; ▪ Does not seek public accolades or recognition for work done; and, ▪ Adheres to a high standard of moral and ethical values.

Other Criteria:
▪ Nominee must reside in the City of Sonoma orSonoma Valley. ▪ Nominees may be either an individual or acouple.

SELECTION PROCESS

1. Nomination Period & Outreach – In late October or early November, a press release will be sent to newspapers announcing the nomination period for Honorary Alcalde of the City of Sonoma. A summary of the criteria shall also be published with a submission deadline no later than mid-December and preferably December 1. City staff will also promote the Alcalde nomination process through other marketing and social media outlets and distribution to the Non-Profit Executive Director Roundtable and other Sonoma groups.

2. Nomination Protocols -- Persons submitting a nomination will do so in a letter or email format, addressing as many of the criteria as possible, and sending the nomination to the City Manager. In order to demonstrate broad support for the nominee, it is recommended that in addition to the nomination letter that a minimum of three letters of recommendation be submitted.

3. Nomination and Ratification Process -- Early in January, the City Manager will convene a Nominating Committee. Historically, this committee has been comprised of the three most immediate past alcaldes available, the Mayor, and the City Manager.

No more than five days before the meeting, the nominee’s names and nomination packets will be released to the committee members only for discussion at the meeting. In the instance that a nominee has been recommended previously, the Nominating Committee will be supplied the prior nomination packets going back two years. This Committee will review the nominations and will select three candidates for consideration.

The Mayor will then make the final nomination and the Council will vote to ratify at the first available Council meeting following the committee nominations, but in no case later than the first meeting in February.

Agenda Item #10.1:

Role and Responsibilities
The Alcalde agrees to follow the City’s Code of Ethics as a guideline.

The City shall provide a congratulatory welcome letter/email with an overview of the role and responsibilities for the Alcalde after the formal appointment by the City Council which will include a calendar the key events for Alcalde participation.

The Alcalde shall have the following opportunities for participation during their term. ▪ Participates in the Alcalde reception where they are honored; ▪ Participates in other public events, as requested and as interested/available, such as:
o Rides in one of the lead positions in Sonoma’s 4th of July Parade and attends the ceremony after the parade;
o Invitation and introduction at the City Party;
o Invitation and introduction at the Vintage Festival’s “Blessing of the Grapes” with other Alcaldes;
o Invitation to participate in the Vintage Festival parade; o Invitation and introduction at the Memorial Day Ceremony; and o Other events as invited by the Mayor or City staff.

Agenda Item #10.1:

Exhibit A – List of Past Alcaldes
Name Alcalde Year
August Pinelli 1976
Henri Maysonnaave 1977
Jerry Casson 1978
Bob Lynch 1979
Dan Ruggles 1980
Paul & Adele Harrison 1981
Gail Fehrensen 1982
Chet Sharek 1983
Evelyn Berger 1984
Alan & Sandy Piotter 1985
Nell Lane 1986
Jim Metzger 1987
Helen Shainsky 1988
Jerry Tuller 1989
Ernest & Loyce Power 1990
Jo Baker 1991
Lee Booker 1992
Jim Vanderbilt 1993
Nancy Parmelee 1994
George Watson 1995
Bob & Carolyn Stone 1996
L. C. “Pete” Peterson 1997
Peggy McAleese 1998
Helen Fernandez 1999
Howie Ehret 2000
Robert Cannard, Sr. 2001
Mitch Mulas 2002
Ellie Baker 2003
Sue Holman & Susan Weeks 2004
June Sheppard 2005
Al & Kathy Mazza 2006
Phyllis Carter 2007
Sy Lenz 2008
Elizabeth Kemp 2009
Niels Chew 2010
Mary Evelyn Arnold 2011
Whitney Evans 2012
Les & Judy Vadasz 2013
Suzanne Brangham 2014
Marcie Waldron 2015
Patrick Garcia 2016
Ted & Pat Eliot 2017
Marcelo Defreitas 2018
Karen Collins 2019
Simon & Kimberly Blattner 2020 & 2021
Steve Page 2022
William Lynch 2023
Agenda Item #10.1:

City of Sonoma
Agenda Item Summary
Meeting: City Council - 15 Jan 2025
Department
Community Development
Department
Staff Contact
Jennifer Gates, AICP, Community Development
Director
Agenda Item Title
Receive a Presentation and consider adoption of a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Approving the Active Transportation Plan and finding this action is exempt from further environmental review under the General Rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines section 15061(b)(3).

Summary
The Sonoma Active Transportation Plan (ATP) is an update to the Sonoma Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan adopted in 2014. The ATP is being developed as part of the Countywide Active Transportation Plan through a grant awarded to the Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA) and contract held by SCTA.

City staff and SCTA have worked closely with the consultant team, Fehr & Peers, to gather data and establish existing conditions, engage the community, conduct technical analyses, and develop the Draft Active Transportation Plan. Public engagement started in 2023 and included a community meeting on May 6, 2024, popup events at the Tuesday Night Market and Farmers Market, a project website and online surveys distributed through social media, mailing lists, the City of Sonoma website, and SCTA’s website and newsletters. City staff and the consultant team previously presented an overview of the project as well as draft projects and policies to the Planning Commission on September 21, 2023, March 21, 2024, and October 24, 2025, allowing additional opportunities for public comment.

The Draft Active Transportation Plan was made available for public comment from October 7 to November 30, 2024. Twenty comment submittals touching on 24 different topics were received (some comments mentioned more than one topic). Staff worked with the consultants to incorporate and respond to comments as applicable (see attached).

Active Transportation Plan
The attached PowerPoint presentation provides an overview of the status of the Draft ATP content. The maps presented in the attached PowerPoint presentation summarize the following:
 Proposed Bikeways and Corridor Projects: Shows draft proposed bikeways and corridor projects in the City’s Draft ATP.
 Proposed Sidewalk Improvements & Crossing Improvements: Shows the draft sidewalk gap closures and crossing projects in the City’s ATP.  Existing & Proposed Active Transportation Network: Shows the combined networks of existing facilities with the proposed projects.

For more details, please refer to the attached PowerPoint presentation and the Draft Sonoma Active Transportation Plan.

Agenda Item #10.2:

Recommended Council Action
Adopt a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonoma Approving the Active Transportation Plan and finding this action is exempt from further environmental review under the General Rule in California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines section 15061(b)(3).

Alternative Actions
Financial Impact
Environmental Review Status
Environmental Impact Report
Negative Declaration
Exempt
Not Applicable
Approved/Certified
No Action Required
Action Requested
Attachments
Presentation
Draft Resolution Approving ATP
Exhibit A SCTA ATP Sonoma Jan032025
Sonoma ATP Comments and Responses
Alignment with Council Goals:

Agenda Item #10.2:

Agenda
1 Purpose & Process
2 Revisions in Response to Comments on
Draft ATP
3 Overview of Final ATP Content
4 Questions
City of Sonoma
Active Transportation Plan
Sonoma City Council
January 15, 2025
Agenda Item #10.2:

Creating spaces for people to walk, bike, and roll that are low-stress and lower risk to create more opportunities for more people to walk, bike, and roll.

All Ages & Abilities
Regional Connection
Purpose of Plan Update
Implementation
Identifying and planning regional routes between jurisdictions as part of the larger Countywide ATP.

Prioritizing projects and identifying funding to focus and streamline implementation.

Agenda Item #10.2:

Process Scope of Work
Task 1:

Establishing
Foundation
Task 3:

Engagement &
Coordination
Task 4:

Projects &
Programs
Task 5:

Funding &
Implementation
Task 2:

Technical
Analysis
Task 6:

Draft &
Final Plans
Task 7:

Board Review
& Approval
Sonoma Countywide
Active Transportation
Plan
Local Plans:
• Cloverdale
• Cotati
• Healdsburg
• Rohnert Park
• Sebastopol
• Sonoma
• Unincorporated
County
Agenda Item #10.2:

Outreach
Summary
• Pop-up Events: Harvest Market in October 2023
& Tuesday Night Farmers’ Market in May 2024
• Online Web Map and Survey: Fall 2023 & Spring 2024
• Public Workshop: May 2024 at the Sonoma Community
Center
• Updates to Planning Commission: September 21, 2023;
March 21, 2024; October 24, 2024
• Draft ATP Review: October & November 2024
City staff and project team hosting an open house at the Sonoma Community Center Agenda Item #10.2:

Sonoma
ATP
Revisions in
Response to
Comments on Draft
ATP
Revised policies to incorporate:
• Green infrastructure, cool corridors and
coordination/alignment with circulation element as part of General Plan update
• Expand bike parking
• Implementation through private development
• Coordination with law enforcement
Revised projects to include:
• Separated bike lanes on 5th Street West, Broadway (SR 12), W Napa (SR 12), and Sonoma Highway
• Improved pedestrian environment and crossings
around the Plaza
• Expanded treatments for 5th Street West/Studley
crossing
• Added crossing improvements and increased priority
Revised implementation information:
• Added specific implementation steps for City staff
• Added funding information
• Added appendix with prioritization details
Agenda Item #10.2: