Sonora City Council
April 17, 2023

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING - APRIL 17, 2023 PAGE 1 OF 3

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
Monday, April 17, 2023 at 5:00 PM
94 N. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370
(209) 532-4541
AGENDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Sonora City Council will have their regular meeting on Monday, April 17, 2023, at 5:00 PM in the City of Sonora Council Chambers located at 94 N. Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370.

THIS MEETING IS PHYSICALLY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING VIA VIDEO CONFERENCING AT:

Zoom Meeting Link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81193397821?pwd=UGdrRTcyaFFac3o0b2JQK2FmMTRyUT09 Dial: (669) 444-9171
Meeting ID: 811 9339 7821
Passcode: 906625
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WILL BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROVIDE COMMENTS.

THIS MEETING WILL BE LIVE STREAMED ON THE CITY'S WEBSITE AT www.sonoraca.com.

Written comments can be submitted to be included as part of the administrative record; they will not be read during the meeting. All comments must be received by 3:00 pm on the day of the noticed meeting and can be submitted to the City Clerk at 94 N. Washington Street Sonora, CA 95370, or via email to [email protected].

CLOSED SESSION - 4:00 PM

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

PUBLIC COMMENTS

ADJOURN INTO CLOSED SESSION

1. Threat to Public Services or Facilities (Government Code §54957); Consultation with: Doug White, City Attorney; Melissa Eads, City Administrator.
1 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING - APRIL 17, 2023 PAGE 2 OF 3

2. Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation - Initiation of litigation pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (d) of Section § 54956.9: One (1) Potential Case; Doug White, City Attorney, Melissa Eads, City Administrator.

RECONVENE INTO OPEN SESSION
OPEN SESSION - 5:00 PM

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL
CITY CLERK’S REPORT ON AGENDA POSTING

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

PUBLIC COMMENT (NON-AGENDA ITEMS)
The public may address the Council on any item of public interest not otherwise on the agenda that is within the jurisdiction of the City. No action may be taken. Matters to be addressed may be referred to City Staff or placed on a subsequent meeting Agenda. Speakers are limited to a three (3) minute presentation. If participating via Zoom, please raise your hand using the Raise Your Hand feature or dial *9 (*6 to unmute).

PRESENTATIONS

3. Receive a presentation from the Small Business Association (SBA) regarding recovery assistance for businesses and residents affected by the severe winter storms; Luis Santos, SBA Public Information Officer.

4. Introduction and Swearing in of Community Service Officer Cynthia Hawkins; Turu VanderWiel, Police Chief.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Items on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be voted on in one motion unless a Council member or member of the public has a question or wishes to discuss an item. In that case, the item will be removed from the Consent Calendar and considered separately.

5. Consider approval of disbursements in the amount of $162,364.78 for payroll, including employee salaries, employer and employee taxes, retirement contributions, miscellaneous voluntary employee deductions, holiday pay, and other adjustments, including retro-pay; Tracy Skelly, Administrative Services Officer.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

6. Consider the discussion of political signs in Ordinance No. 887, which amends Chapter 15.28, Signs, of Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the Sonora Municipal Code, and repeals it in its entirety and replaces it with a new Chapter 15.28, Signs; Melissa Eads, City Administrator. 2 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING - APRIL 17, 2023 PAGE 3 OF 3

NEW BUSINESS

7. Consider acceptance of the Master Equity Lease Agreement and Maintenance Agreement between the City of Sonora and Enterprise Fleet Management Inc. and authorize the City Administrator to execute the agreements; Christopher Gorsky, Administrative Services Director.

MONTHLY REPORTS

8. Receive the Sonora Administrative Services Department Report for February 2023; Christopher Gorsky, Administrative Services Director.

9. Receive the Sonora Community Development Department Report for March 2023; Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director.

10. Receive the Sonora Fire Department Monthly Report for March 2023; Aimee New, Fire Chief.

11. Receive the Sonora Police Department Monthly Report for March 2023; Turu VanderWiel, Police Chief.

12. Receive the Sonora Public Works Department Report for March 2023; Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director, Mike Lagomarsino, Public Works Supervisor.

COUNCIL MEMBER/DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS

ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Administrator at City Hall (209) 532-4541, [email protected]. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting (28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA Title II).

Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the City Council after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Administrator’s Office at 94 N. Washington Street, Sonora, CA 95370 during normal business hours (8:00 am - 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays). The agenda and supporting public documents are also available on our City website www.sonoraca.com listed under the agenda/minutes link on the Government page. 3 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Tracy Skelly, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Presentation by the Small Business Association (SBA) Regarding Recovery Assistance for Residents Affected by the Severe Winter Storms.

RECOMMENDATION
Receive a presentation from the Small Business Association (SBA) Regarding Recovery Assistance for Businesses and Residents Affected by the Severe Winter Storms.

DISCUSSION
Recovery assistance through the SBA in the form of low-interest federal disaster loans is now available to California businesses and residents. President Biden’s major disaster declaration, which covers Tuolumne County, is a result of the severe winter storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that began on February 21, 2023. For more information and to apply for loans visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov.

FISCAL IMPACT
No fiscal impact to the General Fund.
4 Item 3.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Turu VanderWiel, Chief of Police
SUBJECT: Introduction of Community Service Officer

RECOMMENDATION
Introduction and Swearing in of Community Service Officer Cynthia Hawkins.

DISCUSSION
Cynthia Hawkins tested for the position of Community Service Officer in November of last year and, after a thorough pre-employment screening process, was hired in February of 2023. She is undergoing a Field Training Program to learn the various duties of the Community Service Officer position.

Cynthia was born in Modesto and moved to Tuolumne County with her family when she was just a year old. She graduated from Sonora High School in 2009. Cynthia left the area after high school and was away for close to 10 years, living in places such as Hawaii and South Carolina. Although she enjoyed traveling and experiencing different places, she chose to move back to Sonora to raise her two young children so they could have the same opportunities she had growing up.

Cynthia has an Associate of Science Degree in Healthcare, which she obtained from Columbia Junior College. She has worked in the healthcare industry and has experience in hospitality and customer service.

Cynthia states she is honored to be employed by the City and working for the Sonora Police Department. She looks forward to her new position as a Community Service Officer and giving back to the community she grew up in.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the General Fund as this position was previously funded. 5 Item 4.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Tracy Skelly, Administrative Services Officer
SUBJECT: Disbursements in the amount of $162,364.78 for payroll

RECOMMENDATION
Consider approval of disbursements in the amount of $162,364.78 for payroll, including employee salaries, employer and employee taxes, retirement contributions, miscellaneous voluntary employee deductions, holiday pay, and other adjustments, including retro-pay.

DISCUSSION
This payroll was the first (1st) payroll of the month, which was an expected amount.

This payroll is the 20th payroll of 26 for FY22-23, we would have expected to expend 76.92% of the budgeted amount. In total, we have expended 68.04% of the Salaries and Wages for the FY 22/23 budget.

FISCAL IMPACT
Disbursements are part of the approved FY22-23 Budget.
6 Item 5.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: November 7, 2022
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Melissa Eads, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Ordinance 887 – Chapter 15.28, Signs

RECOMMENDATION
Consider the discussion of Ordinance No. 887, which amends Chapter 15.28, Signs, of Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the Sonora Municipal Code, and repeals it in its entirety and replaces it with a new Chapter 15.28, Signs.

DISCUSSION
In November 2022, the City Council approved Ordinance No. 887, amending Chapter 15.28, Signs, of Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the Sonora Municipal Code repealing it in its entirety and replacing it with a new Chapter 15.28, Signs; with a request to bring back the Ordinance for discussion of the political sign component at a future date.

FISCAL IMPACT
None

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Ordinance 887

2. Comparison Table
7 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

ORDINANCE NO. 887

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONORA
AMENDING CHAPTER 15.28, SIGNS, OF TITLE 15, BUILDINGS AND

CONSTRUCTION, OF THE SONORA MUNICIPAL CODE BY REPEALING IT IN ITS ENTIRETY AND REPLACING IT WITH A NEW CHAPTER 15.28, SIGNS WHEREAS, the purpose of Chapter 15.28, Signs, is to establish procedures for regulating signs including type, size, location, and construction standards; and WHEREAS, signs should serve primarily to identify the general nature of an establishment or to direct attention to a project, activity, place, person, organization or enterprise; and WHEREAS, the existing sign regulations are outdated, over burdensome to City businesses, and difficult to implement; and
WHEREAS, the proposed new Chapter 15.28 clearly outlines the standards for signs, making it easier for both businesses and City staff to interpret and expediting the permit processing time.

WHEREAS, the proposed new Chapter 15.28 provides standards to safeguard life, health, property, and public welfare in keeping with the character of the City and its historic area.

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

SECTION 1. AMENDMENT. Chapter 15.28, Signs, of Title 15, Buildings and Construction, of the Sonora Municipal Code shall be repealed in its entirety (striked through text below) and replaced with a new Chapter 15.28, Signs, which shall read as shown below:

Chapter 15.28
Signs

15.28.010 Intent And Purpose

15.28.020 Definitions

15.28.030 Permit; Exception

15.28.040 Wind Sign

15.28.050 Animated Sign

15.28.060 Sound

15.28.070 Flashing Lights

15.28.080 Window Sign; Allowable Area

15.28.090 A-Type And Movable Freestanding Signs

15.28.095 Vehicular Signs

15.28.100 Canopy Sign; Allowable Area

15.28.110 Sign Projecting Over Public Property; Clearance

15.28.120 Installation And Wiring
8 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

15.28.130 Application For Permit

15.28.135 (Reserved)

15.28.140 Vacant Parcel Signs

15.28.150 Exceptions

15.28.160 Additionally Prohibited Signs And Locations

15.28.165 Additional Sign Requirements; Historic Area

15.28.170 Lighted Sign; Intensity In Zones R-1, R-2 And R-3

15.28.180 Residential District Provisions

15.28.190 Freestanding Sign

15.28.200 Wall Sign

15.28.210 Projecting Signs

15.28.220 Roof Signs

15.28.230 Special Purpose Signs

15.28.240 Directory Sign

15.28.250 Construction Project Sign

15.28.260 On-Site Directional Sign

15.28.270 House Or Business Flag And Banner

15.28.280 Noncommercial Signs

15.28.290 Nameplate

15.28.295 Historical Marker

15.28.300 Subdivision Sign

15.28.310 Special Service Sign

15.28.311 Theater Sign

15.28.320 Combination Of Types Permitted

15.28.330 Classification By Building Department

15.28.340 Construction And Maintenance

15.28.350 Nonconforming; Removal And Amortization Period

15.28.360 Nonconforming; Record And Notice

15.28.370 Nonconforming; Subsequent To Effective Date

15.28.380 Nonconforming; Abatement

15.28.390 Nonconforming; Removal By Building Official

15.28.400 Nonconforming; Modification To Comply With Chapter

15.28.410 Nonconforming; Declaration Of Nuisance

15.28.420 Abandoned Sign; Abatement

15.28.430 Unlawful Sign; Abatement

15.28.440 Exception Procedure

15.28.450 Appeal

15.28.460 Violations; Penalty
9 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

NOTES
For statutory provisions authorizing cities to regulate signs and billboards, see Gov. Code §§ 38774 and 65850; for further provisions regarding signs, see Chapter 17.44 of this code.

15.28.010 Intent And Purpose
It is the intent of this sign chapter to regulate, preserve and enhance the aesthetic, vehicle and pedestrian traffic safety and convenience, and environmental values of our residential neighborhoods and business districts, while at the same time providing for channels of communication to the public. It is also the city's intent to regulate on the basis of characteristic and proportion of signage. The city finds as to commercial signage that it is in the interest of both aesthetics and traffic safety that sign information be kept to a minimum. The use of subordinate information in commercial signage such as telephone numbers, lists of products, pictures of products, etc., are discouraged, but may be permitted. Where subordinate information exists on commercial signage, the name or use of the business shall be the dominant message on the sign. Subordinate information on commercial signage will not be allowed which presents a traffic hazard. Noncommercial signs, which rights are constitutionally broader, are permitted unless expressly prohibited within this chapter.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 1, 1972.)

15.28.020 Definitions
For the purpose of this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:

A. "A-type sign" means a movable sign, "A" shaped.

B. "Accessory sign," "business sign," or "on-premises sign" means any sign located on a place of business, enterprise, calling or property which is reasonably related to the products or services available to or within those premises.

C. American Flag. The term "sign" does not include the flag of the United States of American or the flag of the state of California, nor any support frame or standard which is used exclusively for display of any such flag. "American flag" also includes patriotic bunting.

D. "Anchor store" means having greater than twenty-five thousand square feet of gross leasable area.

E. "Animated sign" means a sign, or any device designed to attract attention by visual means through the movement or semblance of movement of the whole or any part of the sign.

F. Area of Sign. In computing maximum permissible sign area or display surface, all signs designed to be seen from off the premises upon which the sign is located, or proposed to be located, shall be included; provided, that only one face of a double face sign shall be included. The structure supporting a sign is not included in determining the sign. The area of a sign without a border shall be computed by enclosing the entire sign within sets of parallel lines touching the outer limits of the sign message and computing the area thus enclosed.

G. "Awning" means any movable structure attached to a building and projecting over a thoroughfare or sidewalk.

H. "Building area" means the total gross square footage of floor area of building used for commercial, office, industrial or quasi-public activities.

I. "Building department" means the city building department administered by the community development director.
10 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

J. "Building line" means a line established by ordinance beyond which no building may extend.

K. "Building official" means the city building inspection department administered by the city building inspector.

L. "Combination sign" means any sign incorporating any combination of features of freestanding sign, sign tower, projecting building sign or roof sign.

M. "Commercial speech" means any message, the prevailing thrust of which is to propose a commercial transaction.

N. "Community directional sign" means a sign placed in the interest of ensuring traffic safety to locate community facilities, such as schools, churches, public facilities of the city, county, state or federal agencies, as examples.

O. "Curb line" means the line at the face of the curb nearest to the street or roadway. In the absence of a curb, the curb line shall be established by the city engineer.

P. "Electric sign" means any sign containing electric wiring, but not including signs illuminated by an exterior light source.

Q. "Erect" means to build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix. Such term also includes the painting of wall signs.

R. "Flashing sign" means an illuminated sign in which the artificial light is not maintained in a stationary or constant intensity, including changeable message signs where the sign message or graphic is replaced/restored from one message or graphic to the next.

S. "Freestanding sign" means and includes any sign standing on the ground. Such signs are usually, but not necessarily, supported from the ground by one or more poles or posts or similar uprights, with or without braces.

T. "Frontage property" means the longest single, lineal dimension of a parcel of property abutting on a public street.

U. "Independent pad" means a separate building or pad in a shopping center located on the perimeter of the center adjacent to the streets or major access points, having single or multiple occupancies.

V. "Marquee" means a permanent, roofed structure attached to and supported by the building.

W. "Mini-anchor store" means having ten thousand one to twenty-five thousand square feet of gross leasable area.

X. "Mobile sign" or "vehicular sign" means a sign attached to or suspended from any type of vehicle.

Y. "Nonaccessory sign" or "off-premises sign" means any sign located on a place of business, enterprise, calling or property which is not reasonably related to the products or services available to or within those premises.

Z. "Noncommercial speech" means any message which is not determined to be commercial speech as defined herein.

AA. "Nonconforming sign" means a sign which is validly installed under laws or ordinance in effect prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, but which is in conflict with the provisions of this chapter.

AB. "Permanent sign" means any sign which is intended for continuous display for a period of time greater than thirty calendar days.

AC. "Planning commission" means the planning commission of the city.

AD. "Projecting building sign" means a sign other than a wall sign which projects from and is 11 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

supported by a wall or roof of a building, structure, or sign structure, and projects beyond the eaves of a building.

AE. "Real property sign" means an accessory or on-premises sign placed on real property, having a size of four square feet or less.

AF. "Roof sign" means a sign erected upon a roof or parapet of a building or structure and extending above the highest portion of the roof or parapet.

AG. "Shopping center" means an integrated group of commercial establishments which is planned, developed and managed as a unit. This can include shops contained in one building or enclosed in a mall and also peripheral buildings or pads located on the perimeter of the center adjacent to the streets and major access points. For the purposes of this chapter, shopping centers include, but are not necessarily limited to, the Foster Brothers Shopping Center, Sonora Plaza, Timberhills Center and the Crossroads.

AH. "Shops tenant" means having zero to ten thousand square feet of gross leasable area.

AI. "Sign" means any surface, fabric, device or display which bears lettered, pictorial or sculptured matter, including forms shaped to resemble any human, animal or product, designed to convey information visually and which is exposed to public view from an out-of-doors position. Included within this definition are various types of signs as defined by this chapter.

AJ. "Sign structure" means the supports, uprights, braces and framework of a sign.

AK. "Temporary sign" means any sign which is intended for continuous display for a period of time of not more than thirty calendar days. Removal of a temporary sign after thirty days, only to then redisplay the sign for another thirty days, is inconsistent with the intent of this definition, and the sign would be considered a permanent sign.

AL. "Time and temperature device" means any mechanism that display only the time and/or temperature.

AM. "Wall sign" means any sign attached to or erected against the wall, roof, or marquee of a building or structure, and not extending more than twelve inches beyond the eaves, building face, marquee or highest point on the roof.

AN. "Window sign" means a sign maintained in or painted upon a window.

AO. "Wind sign" means a flag, pennant, whirligig, or any device which is designed to wave, flutter, rotate or display other movement under the influence of wind.
(Ord. 759 § 1, 2005; Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000; Ord. 686 §§ 1, 2, 1993; Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984; Ord. 432 § 2, 1972.)
Editor’s note—Ord. 432 was adopted with two sections numbered § 2. The first § 2 is codified at § 15.28.020; the second § 2 is codified at §§ 15.28.030—15.28.120.

15.28.030 Permit; Exception
No person shall erect any permanent sign within the city without first obtaining a sign permit to do so from the building department, except that temporary signs as defined herein and special purpose signs set forth in Section

15.28.230 are not required to have permits, but shall meet all other requirements of this chapter. (Ord 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 593 § 2 (part)(A), 1972.)

15.28.040 Wind Sign
12 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

Wind signs shall be prohibited. (Ord.
432 § 2(B), 1972.)

15.28.050 Animated Sign
Movement or semblance of movement signs shall be prohibited. (Ord. 432 § 2(C), 1972.)

15.28.060 Sound
No sign shall be designed or used for the purpose of emitting sound. (Ord. 432 § 2(D), 1972.)

15.28.070 Flashing Lights
No flashing, scintillating or moving signs shall be permitted in any zone. Changeable message signs, as defined in subsection 15.28.020(R), shall not be permitted on properties with frontage on the following streets: N. and S.

Washington Street, N. Highway 49, Stewart Street (south of Cowan), S. Shepherd Street (Jackson to Gold), Stockton Street, Mono Way (Restano to Hospital), Sonora Bypass (Stockton to Loop), Bradford Avenue, Linoberg Street, Green Street and all cross streets to the streets listed in this section. (Ord. 759 § 2, 2005: Ord. 432 § 2(E), 1972.)

15.28.080 Window Sign; Allowable Area
A permanent sign, or combination of permanent signs painted on or attached to windows shall not exceed twenty-five percent of the window area and shall be considered part of the allowable sign area. (Ord. 432 § 2(F), 1972.)

15.28.090 A-Type And Movable Freestanding Signs
A-type and movable freestanding signs are considered to be permanent signs, and shall require the issuance of a permit from the building department. One such sign may be placed on each street frontage, provided all of the following conditions are met:

A. The sign is not within a vehicular path of travel. If on a sidewalk, placement of the sign shall provide for a minimum width of passage of six feet;
B. The sign is not over sixteen square feet in size nor over five feet in height; C. The sign is securely attached to the ground, a post or a wall to prevent overturning or movement; D. If the sign is placed on public property, insurance requirements of the city must be met. (Ord. 686 § 3, 1993: Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 2(G), 1972.)

15.28.095 Vehicular Signs
Unless otherwise provided for in this code, no person shall park any vehicle on a public right-of-way or in a location on private property which is visible from a public right-of-way which as attached thereto or suspended therefrom any sign, except a sign painted directly upon, magnetically affixed to or permanently affixed to the body or other integral part of the vehicle.
13 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 730, 1997: Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984.)

15.28.100 Canopy Sign; Allowable Area
Signs painted on or affixed to canopies which are a part of a building shall be considered part of the total allowable area of wall signs for the wall from which the canopy projects, including hanging curtains. (Ord. 432 § 2(H), 1972.)

15.28.110 Sign Projecting Over Public Property; Clearance Wherever it is determined by the city that the projecting portions of the sign or sign structure will interfere with the use by the city of the public area into which such sign or sign structure projects, such sign shall have a minimum eight feet clearance from the ground and be subject to the provisions of Section 15.28.210B. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 2(I), 1972.)

15.28.120 Installation And Wiring
Signs shall be installed and wired pursuant to the uniform building codes adopted by, and in effect in, the city.1 (Ord. 432 § 2(J), 1972.)
NOTES
1 For provisions regarding the adoption of Uniform Building Codes in effect, see Chapter 15.04 of this code.

15.28.130 Application For Permit
A. An application for a permit for each sign shall be made to the building department on a form provided by the department.

B. The permit fee for each application for each sign shall be based on the fees prescribed in the Uniform Building Code currently in effect and adopted by the city.

C. The building department will issue the permit to the applicant upon determination that compliance with the requirements of this chapter have been met, and the prescribed permit fee has been paid.

D. The building department will make the necessary inspection to ascertain that such sign or signs comply with the requirements of this chapter and applicable laws.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 3, 1972.)

15.28.135 (Reserved)
Editor’s note—Ord. No. 791, § A.1, adopted May 3, 2010, repealed § 15.28.135, which pertained to permits and design review required and derived from Ord. 694, § 1, adopted in 1994 and Ord. 686, § 4, adopted in 1993.

15.28.140 Vacant Parcel Signs
Nonaccessory or off-premises signs on vacant parcels are prohibited. 14 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 4, 1972.)

15.28.150 Exceptions
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit any sign prescribed or required by law; or any official automobile testing sign; or any sign used by a public agency or utility to protect the health, safety or welfare, or promote the convenience of the general public; or any traffic control device or warning sign; or any notice posted by any lawful officer.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 5, 1972.)

15.28.160 Additionally Prohibited Signs And Locations
A. All signs shall comply with the following location requirements:

1. No sign shall be erected in such a manner that it will or may reasonably be expected to interfere with, obstruct, confuse or mislead traffic, excepting such signs placed by a public agency for control of traffic by vehicles or pedestrians.

2. No sign shall be placed in any manner, or be maintained on any fence.

3. No signs shall be affixed to trees or shrubs.

B. Signs which rotate, move, flash, blink, or appear to do any of the foregoing, including changeable message signs as described in subsection 15.28.020(R), shall be prohibited unless required by law or utilized and operated by a proper governmental agency, or as provided by Section

15.28.070. This prohibition shall not apply to the following types of signs:

1. A sign changing so as to only show time and/or temperature;

2. An on-the-premises barber pole not to exceed thirty inches in length, which shall be permitted to revolve only during business hours.

C. Unless otherwise provided for by state law or this code, nonaccessory signs shall be prohibited. (Ord. 759 § 3, 2005; Ord. 682 § 1, 1992; Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 6, 1972.)

15.28.165 Additional Sign Requirements; Historic Area
In addition to the sign requirements of this chapter, the following considerations shall apply to signs proposed within the historic area as defined by Section 17.32.030 of this code.

A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide guidance to applicants in the design, construction, and placement of signs located in the historic area. It is intended that signs protect and enhance the historic atmosphere of the downtown commercial area. The general concepts and specific criteria detailed below will be the basis for city staff's action on said signs.

B. General Concepts. The following general concepts are drawn from Preservation Brief 25 of the Technical Preservation Services, Heritage Preservation Services Division, National Park Service, and are to be followed when designing and constructing new signs in the historic area:

1. Signs are everywhere. And everywhere they play an important role in human activity. They identify.

They direct and decorate. They promote, inform, and advertise. Signs are essentially social. They name a human activity, and often identify who is doing it. Signs allow the owner to communicate with the reader, and the people inside a building to communicate with those outside of it. 15 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

2. Signs should be viewed as part of an overall graphics program for the building upon which the sign is to be placed. They do not have to do all the "work" by themselves. The building's form, name, and outstanding features, both decorative and functional, also support the advertising function of a sign.

Signs should work with the building, rather than against it.

3. Signs should respect the size, scale and design of the building. Often features or details of the building will suggest a motif for new signs.

4. Sign placement is important. New signs should not obscure significant features of the building.

5. Signs should also respect neighboring buildings. They should not shadow or overpower adjacent structures.

6. Sign materials should be compatible with those of the building. Materials characteristic of the building's period and style, used in contemporary designs, can form effective signs.

7. Signs should be attached to the building carefully, both to prevent damage to historic fabric, and to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

C. Specific Considerations. The following specific considerations are to be made when designing and constructing new signs in the historic area:

1. Signs within the historic area shall contribute to the historic atmosphere and design character of their setting. The planning commission may allow signs in the historic area when such signs are part of a unified design plan which furthers the purpose and general concepts of this section.

2. Wood is the preferred material of construction, although other materials such as metal, foam board or shapes, or combinations of materials are permissible provided that, in the opinion of the planning commission, the general concepts are in compliance. Plastic is not an allowed material of construction in the historic area.

3. Non-illuminated or exterior illuminated signs are permissible. Exterior illuminated backlit signs are permissible with a minimum opaque area of sixty-five percent of the sign face. Interior illuminated signs of any type or size are not allowed.

4. Lighting for exterior illuminated signs shall be so arranged that it will not create a hazardous glare for pedestrians or vehicles in a public street or on any private premises. Each sign shall be designed so that illumination does not exceed ten candlepower at a distance of ten feet from the sign.

5. Temporary signs, as defined by this chapter, may be permitted upon the review and approval of the building department and shall be limited to one time only not to exceed thirty days. A single, thirty day extension may be granted by the building department if the applicant is timely pursuing development, processing, construction or installation of permanent signage.

6. Banner signs displayed as a temporary sign are acceptable provided they are approved by the above.

Banner signs displayed as permanent signs, as defined by this chapter, shall not be allowed.

7. The minimum clearance between the lowest point of a sign and the grade immediately below shall be eight feet. The minimum horizontal distance between a sign and the curb line shall be two feet.

The maximum projection over a public sidewalk shall be two-thirds the width or six feet, whichever is less.

8. The city staff shall provide to appropriate advisory agencies notification of an application for a sign permit in the historic area. Advisory agencies shall have ten days from the date 16 Item 6.

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on the notification to provide comment on the proposed sign. City staff will advise the applicant of any comments received, and work with the applicant on changes as determined to be appropriate consistent with the specific criteria. The city staff may then determine whether to issue the permit, issue with revisions, or deny the permit.
(Ord. 791, § B. 2, C. 3, 5-3-2010; Ord. 779, 12-3-2007; Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000; Ord. 694 § 2, 1994.)

15.28.170 Lighted Sign; Intensity In Zones R-1, R-2 And R-3 Lighted signs in zones R-1, R-2, and R-3 shall not have intensity of more than seventy foot-lamberts. (Ord. 432 § 7, 1972.)

15.28.180 Residential District Provisions
No sign shall be erected in any residential district except as provided in this section.

A. Churches and quasi-public organizations may erect signs on the premises identifying the premises or announcing activities thereon.

B. In all residential districts, signs may be erected identifying the property or building on which the sign is situated.

C. Certain special purpose signs may be erected in residential districts in compliance with the provisions of Sections 15.28.230 through 15.28.310.

D. Except as otherwise provided in Sections 15.28.230 through 15.28.310, wall signs in residential districts shall be prohibited. Freestanding signs shall not exceed ten square feet.

E. In residential districts, there shall be no more than one free-standing sign for each frontage. No projecting or roof signs shall be erected in residential districts. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 8, 1972.)

15.28.190 Freestanding Sign
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, every freestanding sign shall comply with the requirements of this section.

A. Five Feet or Under. Freestanding signs five feet or less in height shall be permitted in all districts within the limitations set forth in this section.

1. The maximum area of such signs in the C, CO, CG, PD and ML zones is thirty-two square feet; in the RE, R-1, R-2 and R-3 zones, ten square feet.

2. Every sign shall be wholly on the owner's property and shall not be permitted on publicly used vehicular or pedestrian ways.

B. Over Five Feet in Height. Freestanding signs over five feet in height shall be permitted only in C, CO, CG, ML and PD zones, and subject to the limitations set forth in this section.

1. The maximum area of such signs shall be thirty-two square feet.

2. Location. Freestanding signs may project over public property, or public vehicular or pedestrian easements or ways, a distance determined by the clearance of the bottoms thereof above the level of the sidewalk or grade of the public property or easement or way immediately below as set forth in the following:
17 Item 6.

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a. A clearance less than eight feet is not permitted;
b. For a clearance of eight feet, the maximum projection is one foot; c. For a clearance of eight feet to fourteen feet, the maximum projection is one foot plus six inches for each foot of clearance in excess of eight feet; d. For a clearance over fourteen feet, the maximum projection is four feet; e. No sign shall project within two feet of the curb line.

3. The structural support for such signs shall be wholly on the owner's property. No freestanding sign shall exceed thirty-five feet in height.

C. Number.

1. There may be one freestanding sign for each frontage. In the case of shopping centers and other multiple occupancies having a common frontage, the frontage shall be deemed to be that of the shopping center or commonly used parcel and not the frontage of the individual business or occupancy.

2. For each frontage with street access, a shopping center may have one freestanding sign, not to exceed forty square feet, giving the common name of the center. In addition, the sign may incorporate area of up to fifteen hundredths of one percent of the gross leasable area of the center, but not to exceed three hundred square feet of sign area, to serve the needs of center tenants. Within said sign area may be placed any number or combination of tenants, as long as the individual tenant signs are no larger than thirty-two square feet, or smaller than sixteen square feet, in area. The minimum sign letter size is to be five inches. No tenants may have a separate freestanding sign unless that tenant is located on an independent pad. An independent pad may have one freestanding sign not to exceed thirty-two square feet in area and twelve feet in height. An independent pad may incorporate its sign on the shopping center sign in-lieu of a freestanding sign on the pad.

D. Construction. Every freestanding sign shall be constructed wholly of metal, wood, fire-resistant plastic or other approved material.
(Ord. 754 § 2, 2002; Ord. 686 § 5, 1993; Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 9, 1972.)

15.28.200 Wall Sign
Every wall sign shall comply with the requirements of this section.

A. Area.

1. The maximum wall sign area for each building frontage, in a C, CO, CG, ML or PD zone, shall not exceed twenty percent of the total frontage wall area, but not to exceed ninety square feet.

2. The wall sign area allowed to separate occupancies in multiple story buildings will be in direct proportion to their part of the total wall area.

3. One square foot of wall sign shall be allowed for each lineal foot of frontage of multiple business occupancies with individual entrances, in a single building, however, not to exceed a maximum of thirty square feet, but with a maximum of fifteen square feet being allowed for any occupancy less than fifteen lineal feet of frontage.

4. In the case of shopping centers, for major anchor stores, the wall sign area allowed shall be no more than three percent of the total wall frontage area. All other provisions of this 18 Item 6.

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code for wall signs shall apply for shops building tenants and independent pads.

B. Height. No part of any wall sign shall extend above the top level of the wall upon or in front of which it is situated. Any such sign which is suspended or projects over any public walkway or wall area shall have an overhead clearance of at least eight feet.

C. Thickness or Projection. No wall sign, including any light box or other structural part, shall project more than twelve inches from the building face.

D. Number. There may be any number of wall signs for each building frontage, but in no case shall the total wall sign area for each frontage exceed area limitations. (Ord. 686 § 6, 1993; Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 468 § 1, 1974; Ord. 432 § 10, 1972.)

15.28.210 Projecting Signs
A. Area. For projecting signs in C, CO, CG, ML or PD zones, the total allowable area of such sign shall not exceed thirty square feet.

B. Height. No projecting sign shall extend above the top level of the wall upon or in front of which it is situated.

In the case of buildings having sloping roofs, no such sign shall extend above the roof ridge. Any such sign which projects over public property shall have a clearance of eight feet above the ground, and a fourteenfoot clearance above vehicle-ways.

C. Location. Projecting signs may project over public property, public vehicular or pedestrian easements or ways a distance determined by the clearance of the bottoms thereof above the level of the sidewalk or grade immediately below, as set forth in subsection B2 of Section 15.28.190. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 11, 1972.)

15.28.220 Roof Signs
Roof signs shall not be allowed in any zone. (Ord. 432
§ 12, 1972.)

15.28.230 Special Purpose Signs
In addition to any other permitted sign or signs, signs for the special purposes set forth in Sections

15.28.240 through 15.28.311 shall be permitted as provided therein. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1), 1972.)

15.28.240 Directory Sign
In all zones where group occupancies in office buildings are permitted, director signs may be erected. To advance the city's interest in ensuring vehicle and pedestrian traffic safety and convenience, such signs may display the occupant names, particular profession or business, or room or suite number. Such signs may have an areas of four square feet plus one square foot per name, in no event to exceed sixteen square feet. (Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(a), 1972.)

15.28.250 Construction Project Sign
19 Item 6.

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A. Signs may be erected in conjunction with construction projects.

B. In all zones, such signs shall not exceed six square feet in area, and no freestanding sign shall exceed five feet in height.

C. All such signs shall be removed before a final release on the construction is given by the building official. (Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(b), 1972.)

15.28.260 On-Site Directional Sign
A. Directional signs may be erected for the purpose of facilitating or controlling the efficient or safe movement of pedestrians or vehicles on or onto private property and shall be located on the property to which they pertain.

B. A maximum of two on-site directional signs per drive approach shall be allowed.

C. Such signs shall not exceed an area of six square feet. (Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000; Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(c), 1972.)

15.28.270 House Or Business Flag And Banner
Each separate business or residence may display, only in conjunction with the display of the United States flag, or in conjunction with the display of the United States flag and governmental flags, one house or business flag or banner; provided, however, that the United States flag and any other government flag shall be displayed in an approved manner, and that the house or business flag shall be displayed in a similar manner, and is not larger than the United States flag.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(d), 1972.)

15.28.280 Noncommercial Signs
Noncommercial signs may be erected in conformity with this chapter in all zones, on a temporary basis only. In each instance and under the same conditions to which this chapter permits any sign, a sign containing an ideological, political or other noncommercial message and constructed to the same physical dimensions and character shall be permitted.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(e), 1972.)

15.28.290 Nameplate
One nameplate or marker shall be allowed for each dwelling unit, not to exceed one square foot in area. (Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(f), 1972.)

15.28.295 Historical Marker
A historical marker erected to commemorate the history of a building or structure, not larger than four square feet, is permitted in any zone.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984.)

15.28.300 Subdivision Sign
Approved subdivision signs may be erected under the following conditions:
20 Item 6.

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Signs

A. Not more than two such signs shall be allowed per subdivision unit.

B. No such sign shall exceed ten square feet in area.

C. No such sign shall be illuminated.

D. Such signs shall be removed when all lots and houses in the subdivision have been sold. (Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000; Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(g), 1972.)

15.28.310 Special Service Sign
A. In conjunction with drive-in businesses offering fuel, food or lodging, an additional sign area allowance not to exceed ten square feet shall be permitted for special services provided on site.

B. In conjunction with businesses providing motor fuels for sale, an additional sign area allowance for pricing signs shall be sixteen square feet per side for each brand of fuel or "no brand," and each condition of sale available on the premises. The pricing signs may be placed as one separate freestanding sign for each street frontage, as an addition to an existing freestanding sign, or as permanent signs at the ends and each side of each pump island or aisle. In addition, a condition of sale sign no larger than six square feet may be placed at the ends and each side of each pump island or aisle which provides a different condition of sale from other pump islands or aisles. All pricing signs placed under this section shall be mounted in accordance with all other provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000; Ord. 581, 1983: Ord. 432 § 13(A)(1)(h), 1972.)

15.28.311 Theater Sign
Changeable or electronic reader board area of not more than thirty-two square feet shall be permitted for each theater screen or stage.
(Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 503, 1976.)

15.28.320 Combination Of Types Permitted
There may be permitted, for each place of business or occupancy, a combination of not more than two types of signs; freestanding, wall or projecting.
(Ord. 432 § 14, 1972.)

15.28.330 Classification By Building Department
Every sign erected or proposed to be erected shall be classified by the building department in accordance with the sign standards and criteria as defined by this chapter. (Ord. 746 § 1 (part), 2000: Ord. 432 § 15, 1972.)

15.28.340 Construction And Maintenance
A. The appropriate provisions of the building code in effect at time of construction shall apply to the construction of signs.

B. Signs and sign structures shall be maintained at all times in a state of good repair.

C. Without limiting the foregoing, no person shall maintain or permit to be maintained on any premises owned or controlled by him, any sign which is in a sagging, leaning, fallen, decayed, 21 Item 6.

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deteriorated, or other dilapidated or unsafe condition, as determined by the building official.

D. All signs and sign structures shall be constructed, installed or erected with more than a six-foot horizontal and a twelve-foot vertical clearance to energized electrical power lines. (Ord. 432 § 16, 1972.)

15.28.350 Nonconforming; Removal And Amortization Period A. It is the intent of Sections 15.28.350 through 15.28.410 to balance the benefit to the public with the loss to the owner in having a nonconforming sign(s) removed.

B. Any sign which is nonconforming with the requirements of this chapter, either by use permit previously granted or by conformance to the existing sign regulations at the time initial permit for such sign was issued, shall either be removed or brought within the requirements of this chapter no later than July 1, 1984. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 506, 1977; Ord. 432 § 17 (A)(1), 1972.)

15.28.360 Nonconforming; Record And Notice
A. Within four years of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, the building official shall complete a list of the signs which as of that date do not conform to the provisions of this chapter, and file such list in his office. Upon any annexation to the city, a like list will be made.

B. Within six months after said filing, the building official shall cause to be mailed, to the owners of property and the proprietor of premises on which nonconforming signs are located, notice of the existence of such nonconforming signs and the time within which the same must be made to conform to this chapter, or be abated.

C. For purposes of such notification, the last known name and address of the owner of the property in question shall be used, as shown on the last equalized assessment roll of the county.

D. Notification to such owner of the property shall be deemed to be notification to the owner of the sign in question.

E. The mailing of such notice shall be made by registered or certified United States mail. The failure of the owner to receive the same shall in no way impair the effectiveness of the provisions of this chapter, or the validity of any proceedings taken thereunder for the abatement of any such sign. (Ord. 432 § 17(A)(2), 1972.)

15.28.370 Nonconforming; Subsequent To Effective Date
A. Any sign which became nonconforming subsequent to the effective date of adoption of Ordinance No. 432, either by reason of the annexation to the city of territory upon which the sign is located, or the amendment of this chapter to render such sign as nonconforming or otherwise, shall also be subject to the provisions thereof.

B. The period within which such sign must be abated as provided in subsection B of Section 15.28.350, shall commence to run on the effective date of such annexation or of such amendment, or the date upon which the sign otherwise becomes nonconforming, not to exceed five years. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 17(A)(3), 1972.) 22 Item 6.

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15.28.380 Nonconforming; Abatement
Nonconforming signs shall either be made to conform to the provisions of this chapter, or abated within the applicable period of time set forth in this chapter. In the event they are not so abated, the building official shall order the same abated by the owner of the property on which such sign is located, and/or any other person or corporation known to be responsible for the maintenance of such sign.
(Ord. 432 § 17(A)(4), 1972.)

15.28.390 Nonconforming; Removal By Building Official
A. The building official may remove or cause the removal of any fixed permanent sign constructed, placed or maintained in violation of this chapter after ten days written notice to the owner of the sign. The notice shall consist of the receipt of a registered or certified written notice by the owner of the sign at his/her business address of record, which notice shall describe the sign and specify the violation involved, giving notice that it will be removed if the violation is not corrected within ten days, and also giving notice that any persons having interest in the sign may appeal the matter for a hearing by the city council by filing written request at the office of the city clerk within ten days of receipt of the notice. Where the owner of the sign or his/her address is unknown, the notice shall be sent to the owner of the property on which the sign is located. In the event of an appeal, the provisions of Section 15.28.450 shall apply.

1. Signs painted on buildings, walls or fences shall be abated by removal of the paint constituting the sign or by permanently painting over it in a way that the sign shall not thereafter be visible.

2. The building official may remove or cause the removal of temporary or portable signs so constructed, placed or maintained in violation of this chapter, at the time the notice is given to the person in charge of the premises for which the sign is located.

B. Signs removed by the building official pursuant to this chapter shall be stored for a period of at least twenty days, and if not claimed within such time, may be destroyed. Prior to the reclaiming of any sign, the owner shall pay a fee of twenty-five dollars to the city to defray a portion of the expense of removing, storing and handling the illegal sign.

C. If a sign is removed in response to such notice and is later again placed or used in an illegal location or manner, the building official may remove the sign without further notice. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 17(A)(5), 1972.)

15.28.400 Nonconforming; Modification To Comply With Chapter No nonconforming sign shall be in any manner altered, reconstructed or moved without being made to comply in all respects with the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 432 § 17(A)(7), 1972.)

15.28.410 Nonconforming; Declaration Of Nuisance
The city council determines that the public peace, safety, health and welfare require that all signs and advertising structures heretofore constructed or erected in violation of any ordinance of the city in effect at the time such sign was constructed or erected, are made subject to the provisions of this chapter, and shall comply and conform with such requirements in accordance with this chapter, and that all signs and advertising structures which shall not so conform and comply as required in this chapter, and all signs which shall hereafter be constructed or erected in violation of 23 Item 6.

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this chapter, shall be declared public nuisances, to be removed and abated in the manner provided by law. (Ord. 432 § 17(A)(6), 1972.)

15.28.420 Abandoned Sign; Abatement
A. No person shall maintain or permit to be maintained on any premises owned or controlled by him, any sign which has been abandoned. Any such sign shall be abated by the owner, the building official, or any other person, in a lawful manner.

B. Any sign which is located on property which becomes vacant and unoccupied for a period of six months or more, and any sign which was erected for an occupant or business unrelated to the present occupant or his business, and any sign which pertains to a time event, or purpose which no longer pertains, shall be presumed to have been abandoned.
(Ord. 432 § 18, 1972.)

15.28.430 Unlawful Sign; Abatement
Whenever a sign is found to be erected or maintained in violation of any provisions of this chapter or any other ordinance or law, the building official shall order that such sign be altered, repaired, reconstructed, demolished, or removed as may be appropriate to abate such condition.
(Ord. 432 § 19, 1972.)

15.28.440 Exception Procedure
Where practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or results inconsistent with the general purpose of this chapter result from the strict application of this chapter, an exception may be granted pursuant to the following procedure:

A. Written application for such exception shall be filed with the planning commission. A nonrefundable fee of twenty-five dollars shall accompany such application. Such application shall include all information necessary to adequately and properly apprise the planning commission of the alleged grounds, facts and circumstances existing which require any such exception. The applicant must set forth, and prove at any later hearing:

1. The exception does not constitute a special privilege inconsistent with other properties in the vicinity and the same zone;

2. The exception is not injurious to the neighborhood and is consistent with the intent of this chapter.

B. Notice of hearing before the planning commission shall be given as prescribed by Section 15.28.450.

C. The planning commission shall consider the application at its next regular meeting after such notice, and shall either grant its approval, or conditional approval, or deny such application. Any such hearing may be continued from time to time. The decision of the planning commission may be appealed to the city council pursuant to the provisions of Section 15.28.450.
(Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 20, 1972.)

15.28.450 Appeal
Any decision of the building official or planning commission, as the case may be, excepting an initial application for an exception as provided in Section 15.28.440, may be appealed to the city council by 24 Item 6.

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any person directly or adversely affected by any such decision, in accordance with the following procedure:

A. The appeal shall be filed with the city clerk in writing, accompanied by a nonrefundable fee of twenty-five dollars within ten days after the date of the decision of such building official or planning commission. Such decision of the building official or planning commission, as the case may be, becomes final if such appeal is not filed within the time specified.

B. The city clerk shall give notice of such appeal and of the time and place of hearing thereof by publication once in a newspaper of general circulation published in the city, and, by posting a copy of such notice in a conspicuous place on the property to which such sign or proposed sign related or is situated or is to be situated. Such publication and posting are to be completed not less than ten days before the date noticed for hearing. Any hearing on such appeal may be continued from time to time. (Ord. 593 § 1 (part), 1984: Ord. 432 § 23, 1972.)

15.28.460 Violations; Penalty
Any violation of this chapter is an
infraction. (Ord. 615, 1985.)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 15.28
Signs

15.28.01 Purpose

15.28.02 Permit required

15.28.03 Definitions

15.28.04 Exemptions

15.28.05 Prohibited Signs

15.28.06 Signs Area

15.28.07 Signs Permitted—Residential Zoning Districts

15.28.08 Signs Permitted—PD District

15.28.09 Historic Area Requirements

15.28.10 Signs Permitted—CO, C, CG, and ML Districts

15.28.11 Master Sign Programs

15.28.12 Design Guidelines and Requirements

15.28.13 Signage at Closed Businesses and/or Vacant Sites

15.28.14 Special Use Sign

15.28.15 Legal Nonconforming and Illegal Signs

15.28.16 Administration and Enforcement

15.28.01 Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures for regulating signs, including the type, size, location, and construction standards of signs by zone district. The objectives of this chapter include the following:
25 Item 6.

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A. To reinforce that signs should serve primarily to identify the general nature of an establishment or to direct attention to a project, activity, place, person, organization, or enterprise. The use of subordinate information in commercial signage such as telephone numbers, lists of products, pictures of products, etc., is discouraged.

B. As identification devices, signs must not subject the public to excessive competition for their visual attention. As appropriate identification devices, signs should harmonize with the building, the neighborhood, Historic Area, and other signs in the area.

C. The City intends to encourage the installation of signs that improve the appearance of the property and the neighborhood and enhance the economic effectiveness of signs.

D. The provisions in this chapter provide standards to safeguard life, health, property, and public welfare in keeping with the character of the City by regulating the size, height, structural design, quality of materials, construction location, electrification, illumination, and maintenance of all types of signs and sign structures.

E. The requirements and provisions set forth in this chapter shall apply to all signs erected, altered, relocated, repaired, or maintained within the City. No sign shall be erected, repaired, maintained, or relocated except as provided in this chapter.

15.28.02 Permit required
Any person desiring to erect, move, alter, or attach a sign or other improvement regulated by this chapter shall first obtain any necessary permit(s) to do so. All requests for approval shall be accompanied by the drawings and information necessary to demonstrate compliance with the applicable regulations of this chapter.

A. Application. Applications for sign permits shall be made with a form provided by the Community Development Department which contains all information and documents deemed applicable by City staff. Applications not containing all applicable information shall be deemed incomplete and shall not be processed until deemed complete by the City staff.

B. Modification and Exceptions. Where practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships, or results inconsistent with the general purpose of this chapter result from the strict application of this Chapter, an exception may be granted pursuant to Sonora Municipal Code Chapter 17.62, Use Permit and Variance Procedure.

C. Minor Deviations. A minor deviation of up to ten (10) percent may be granted by the Community Development Director upon written request, subject to conditions imposed without any notice or appeal, if the following findings are made:

1. Doing so would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to property and improvements in the area in which the property is located.

2. There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions which apply to the property involved or the existing or intended use of the property which do not apply generally to other properties in the same zoning district.

3. Granting of a minor deviation will not negatively impact the surrounding properties.
26 Item 6.

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D. Expiration of Permit. Expiration of sign permits shall be as prescribed in Sonora Municipal Code Section 15.10.100, Expiration.

E. When a use permit is required for a specific use in any zone district, the use permit shall outline specific limitations and requirements for signage appurtenant to the use permitted.

F. Interpretation. When conflicts arise in determining application of this Chapter and its requirements, the Community Development Director shall determine the intent of the Chapter and its application of standards as appropriate. If further conflict continues, the provisions of 15.28.16(D) shall apply.

15.28.03 Definitions
For the purposes of this chapter, certain words and forms are defined as follows.

A. “A-frame sign” or “sandwich board” or “A-type sign” means a portable sign capable of standing without support or attachment.

B. "Accessory sign," "business sign," or "on-premises sign" means any sign located on a place of business, enterprise, calling or property which is related to the products or services available to or within those premises.

C. “Advertising structure” means a structure erected exclusively for advertising purposes upon which any poster, bill, printing, device, or other advertisement of any kind whatsoever may be placed, posted, printed, or fastened.

D. "Anchor store" means having greater than twenty-five thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.) of gross leasable area.

E. "Animated sign" means a sign, or any device designed to attract attention by visual means through the movement or semblance of movement of the whole or any part of the sign.

F. “Awning sign” means any sign located on an awning or any movable structure attached to a building and projecting over a thoroughfare or sidewalk.

G. “Balloon” means any inflatable sign or balloon intended to levitate above the ground regardless of size, that is designed to be used as an outdoor advertising device for any business or promotional event.

H. “Building” means the structure on which a sign is located or attached but excluding an advertising structure.

I. "Building area" means the total gross square footage of floor area of building used for commercial, office, industrial or quasi-public activities.

J. "Building line" means a line established by ordinance beyond which no building may extend.

K. “Building Official” or “City Building Inspector” means the individual designated by the City Administrator as the person authorized to serve as the City’s Building Official for the purposes of administering various building and property maintenance codes contained in the Sonora Municipal Code.
27 Item 6.

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L. “Bulletin board” means a permanent monument sign with changeable copy intended to announce meetings or other events.

M. “Changeable message sign” means a sign whose informational content can be altered or changed by electric, electro-mechanical, electronic, or manual means. Changeable signs include the following types:

1. Electrically activated. Signs whose alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic informational content can be altered or changed on a fixed display surface composed of electrically illuminated or mechanically driven changeable segments. includes the following two (2) types:
a. Computer controlled variable message electronic signs. Signs whose informational content can be altered or changed by means of computer-driven electronic impulses.
b. Fixed message electronic signs. Signs whose basic informational content has been pre-programmed to include only certain types of information projection (e.g., predictable traffic conditions, temperature, time, or other events subject to prior programming).

2. Manually activated. Signs whose alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic informational content can be altered or changed by manual means.

N. "Combination sign" means any sign incorporating any combination of features of freestanding sign, sign tower, projecting building sign or roof sign.

O. "Commercial speech" means any message, the prevailing thrust of which is to propose a commercial transaction.

P. "Community directional sign" means a sign placed in the interest of ensuring traffic safety to locate community facilities, such as schools, churches, public facilities of the city, county, state or federal agencies.

Q. "Curb line" means the line at the face of the curb nearest to the street or roadway. In the absence of a curb, the curb line shall be established by the City Engineer.

R. “Cut-out sign” means any sign or individual words, letters, figures, or characters which are self-supporting and not affixed to any sign surface, but which are erected to be approximately parallel to the face of the structure but need not be attached to the structure.

S. “Directional sign” means any sign, other than a highway marker or any sign erected by public authority, which is for the purpose of directing persons to a place or activity not located on the same premises as the sign.

T. “Directory sign” means a sign for listing the tenants and their suite numbers of a multitenant structure, building, or center.

U. "Electric sign" means any sign containing electric wiring, but not including signs illuminated by an exterior light source.

V. “Erect” means to build, construct, hang, place, suspend or affix, including the painting or otherwise applying of wall signs.
28 Item 6.

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W. “Face” means the surface of a sign on, against or through which the message or design is displayed or illustrated.

X. “Face of structure” means the exposed side of a main wall of a structure, excluding structural projections facing a street, highway or thoroughfare.

Y. “Feather sign” means a sign typically freestanding that is mounted on a pole, normally made of fabric and designed to blow in the wind.

Z. “Fin sign” means any sign which is erected to combine the features of both a roof sign and a projecting sign.

AA. "Flashing sign" means an illuminated sign in which the artificial light is not maintained in a stationary or constant intensity, including changeable message signs where the sign message or graphic is replaced/restored from one message or graphic to the next.

BB. “Freestanding sign” means any sign which is self-supporting in a fixed location and not attached to any structure.

CC. "Frontage" means the boundaries of property abutting a public street.

DD. “Gross surface area of sign” or “aggregate surface area” means the area contained within a single continuous perimeter, enclosing all parts of the sign, but excluding any structural elements outside the limits of signs which are required for the support of the sign, most often measured in square feet.

EE. “Handbill” means a small printed advertisement or other notice distributed by hand and any other advertising material consistent with the definition in Section

9.24.010(A).

FF. “I-frame” signs are a type of portable sign, designed to stand on a solid base or base with four legs, supporting a vertical sign which may or may not be two-sided.

GG. “Illuminated sign” means any sign illuminated by any light source on, within or attached to the sign or by a light source removed therefrom.

HH. "Independent pad" means a separate building or pad in a shopping center located on the perimeter of the center adjacent to the streets or major access points, having single or multiple occupancies.

II. “Marquee” means a permanent roofed structure attached to and supported by the structure.

JJ. “Marquee sign” means any sign attached to or supported by a marquee.

KK. "Mini-anchor store" means having ten thousand and one square feet (10,001 sq. ft.) to twenty-five thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.) of gross leasable area.

LL. “Mobile sign” or “vehicular sign” means a sign attached to or suspended from any type of vehicle.

MM. “Monument sign” means any low-profile sign located on the premises and advertising the use, business, service, or activity being conducted on the premises. 29 Item 6.

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NN. “Non-accessory sign” means any sign located on a place of business, enterprise, calling or property which is not reasonably related to the products or services available to or within those premises.

OO. “Noncommercial sign” means a sign (typically temporary in nature) that contains a message or images displaying noncommercial speech. Such messages typically relate to debatable matters of public concern, such as, by way of example and not limitation, advocacy on politics, religion, arts, science, philosophy, commentary on governmental policy, and similar topics. Noncommercial signs do not include temporary advertising displayed in connection with an event. This definition shall be construed and interpreted in light of relevant court decisions concerning noncommercial speech.

PP. “Legal nonconforming sign” means a sign which is validly installed under laws or ordinance in effect prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, but which is in conflict with the provisions of this chapter.

QQ. “Occupancy frontage” means the length of a building frontage of an individual business. Occupancy frontage is used to determine the maximum permitted size of a wall sign.

RR. “Off-site/off-premises sign” means any sign identifying a facility, product, service, or use which is not located, manufactured, or sold on the same premises as the sign or which identifies a facility, product, service, or use by a brand name which, although manufactured or sold on the premises, does not constitute the principal item manufactured or sold on the premises.

SS. “Outdoor advertising structure (billboard)” means any sign, other than a directional sign, having a gross area of fifty square feet (50 sq. ft.) or more, if single faced; or one hundred square feet (100 sq. ft.) or more if double faced, which advertises a business, product, service, or activity made available elsewhere than upon where the sign is located.

TT. “Pedestrian sign” means a sign typically above a sidewalk affixed to an awning or arcade meant to be viewed by pedestrians.

UU. “Pennants” are long, narrow flags that may be used individually or strung together and are most often used to designate car sales or other outdoor sales or events.

VV. “Permanent sign” means any sign which is intended for continuous display for a period of time greater than thirty calendar days (30-days).

WW. “Pole sign” means a ground sign that is supported by one or more poles and otherwise separated from the ground by air.

XX. “Portable sign” means any sign designed to be easily transportable or movable, and which can stand without support or attachment, including but not limited to an Aboard, movable freestanding, tire stack or wind sign.

YY. “Primary tenant” means the tenant which has greater lineal occupancy frontage.

ZZ. “Projecting sign” means any sign other than a wall sign which is attached to the face of a structure and projects more than eighteen inches from the face of the structure. 30 Item 6.

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AAA. “Real estate sign” means any sign used exclusively for advertising a parcel of property or a structure for sale, lease or rent.

BBB. “Roof sign” means any sign located on a roof or above the parapet of a building or having its major structural supports attached to a roof.

CCC. “Sandwich Board” refers to definition of “A-frame sign.” DDD. “Shops tenant” means having zero to ten thousand square feet (0-10,000 sq. ft.) of gross leasable area.

EEE. “Shopping center” means a group of retail, restaurant, commercial service and recreation uses that are planned, constructed and managed as a total entity.

FFF. “Sign” means any advertisement, announcement, display (including electronic display), illustration, banner, insignia or mechanism which is affixed to, painted on or otherwise represented on a building, structure or site, on any vegetation, rock, wall, post, fence or any other object, and which is used to advertise or promote the interests of any person on the sale, use or consumption of any service, commodity, article or thing.

For the purpose of this chapter the term “sign” shall not include the following:

1. Advertising media located entirely within an enclosed building;

2. Traffic highway markers, parking directional signs not greater than three square feet (3 sq. ft.) in area and railroad crossing or danger signals;

3. The display of official court or public office notices;

4. Any sign erected or maintained by public authority; or

5. Signs used for the safety, welfare, or convenience of the public by utility companies.

GGG. “Sign structure” means the structure supporting a sign including uprights, braces and framework but excluding any portion of the sign structure which meets the definition of a “sign.”
HHH. “Snipe sign” means a type of temporary sign used for commercial purposes, typically small, made of plastic or paper that is attached to a wire frame that is stuck into the ground. Snipe signs are also sometimes attached to other objects such as telephone poles, trees, fences, etc.

III. “Streamer” means a long, narrow banner, flag, or pennant.

JJJ. “Street frontage of a lot” means all lot frontages abutting a street.

KKK. "Temporary sign" means any sign which is intended for continuous display for a short period of time, such as advertisement for events, and may consist of commercial or noncommercial speech. Removal of a temporary sign after thirty calendar days (30- days), only to then redisplay the sign for another thirty calendar days (30-days), is inconsistent with the intent of this definition, and the sign would be considered a permanent sign.

LLL. "Time and temperature device" means any mechanism that displays only the time and/or temperature.
31 Item 6.

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MMM.“Trompe l’oeil” means an art technique involving realistic imagery in order to trick the eye into perceiving a painted detail as a three-dimensional (3-D) object.

NNN. “Wall sign” means any sign painted, affixed or attached on a building wall or of solid construction located as to be approximately parallel with the face of a structure, including a “V” type sign which does not extend more than eighteen inches from the face of the structure.

OOO. “Window sign” means any sign painted on or attached to a window.

PPP. “Wind sign” means a flag, pennant, whirligig, or any device which is designed to wave, flutter, rotate or display other movement under the influence of wind.

Figure 1, below, illustrates the various types of signs.

Figure 1: Various Sign Types

15.28.04 Exemptions
The following signs may be erected without obtaining a sign permit:

A. Temporary Signs, as follows:
32 Item 6.

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1. Christmas Tree Sales and Similar Uses. Temporary A-frame and I-frame signs may be used. Total number of signs per street frontage shall be one sign, not to exceed twelve square feet (12 sq. ft.) in area or six feet (6’) in height.

2. Grand opening signs, including banners, pennants, and streamers, are allowed temporarily for a period no longer than thirty calendar days (30-days) from the conclusion of the event. Grand opening signs as defined in Section 15.28.12 (C) of this chapter, shall not exceed fifteen square feet (15 sq. ft.) within the Historic Area and thirty square feet (30 sq. ft.) in area outside of the Historic Area.

B. Real estate signs not exceeding sixteen square feet (16 sq. ft.) in area and having a vertical dimension of not more than four feet (4’) pertaining to the sale, lease, or rental of the property, as follows;

1. Not more than one (1) such sign shall be allowed upon each 100 feet (100’) of street frontage in the Agricultural/Residential Zone (AR), Residential Estates Zone (RE), and Commercial Zone (C) districts;

2. Not more than one (1) such sign shall be allowed no matter the size of the parcel when located in any Single-Family Residential Zone (R-1), Limited Multifamily Residential Zone (R-2), and Multifamily Residential Zone (R-3);

3. Signs advertising the sale of lots within a subdivision shall be permitted on the subdivision property for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of beginning construction; provided, that when seventy-five percent (75%) of the lots in the subdivision have been built, all such signs shall be removed within thirty calendar days (30-days).

C. Signs for the purpose of directing traffic to a residential property for sale, not including new subdivisions, shall have an area on any face not greater than three square feet (3 sq. ft.) and limited to two (2) signs to any property and displayed only during the hours between eight a.m. and five p.m. (8:00a.m. – 5:00p.m.).

D. Street number and/or name signs not exceeding two square feet (2 sq. ft.) per sign for single-family or duplex structures and three-square feet (3 sq. ft.) per sign for all other uses. One (1) sign per street frontage and private parking lot shall be allowed.

E. Signs not exceeding twelve square feet (12 sq. ft.) in area and five feet (5 ft) in height, when placed upon work and during construction; provided, that not more than one (1) such sign shall be erected on the site. Such signs shall be erected for not longer than six months (6-months) and shall be removed thirty calendar days (30-days) after obtaining an occupancy permit for the structure.

F. Signs used exclusively for the posting or display of official notices by a public agency or official, or by a person giving legal notice.

G. Signs erected or maintained by a public agency or official or required by law to be displayed by a public utility for directional, warning, or information purposes.

H. Garage/yard sales signs, maximum of two (2) signs per property not exceeding three square feet (3 sq. ft.) in area, each posted consistent with Section 15.28.05 (B). All signs 33 Item 6.

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are required to be removed immediately after the completion of the sale or end of day, whichever is first.

I. Signs bearing no advertising message and located on the site may be temporarily erected when necessary to facilitate circulation within the site or facilitate egress and ingress during a permitted special event or occasion.

J. Flags of any nation, political subdivision, or fraternal or religious organization, provided the pole height does not exceed twenty-four feet (24’), does not interfere with any overhead utility lines, and the vertical height of the flag is not more than one-fourth (1/4) the height of the pole. A sign application may be submitted for a flagpole higher than twenty-four feet (24’) or a flag which exceeds one-fourth (1/4) the height of the pole where the applicant can show that the proposed flag and/or pole is consistent with the intent and purpose of this chapter.

K. Temporary signs and display posters in connection with an event may be displayed on the interior of a window with occupant or owner’s permission. Such posters shall be removed within ten calendar days (10 days) after the conclusion of the event and no larger than eleven inches by seventeen inches (11” x 17”) and cumulatively cover no more than fifty percent (50%) (twenty five percent (25%) in Historic Area) of total window area.

L. The removal and replacement of only the sign copy without increasing the area of conforming signs. The sign container, including the structural and electrical connections, shall remain unchanged.

M. Holiday greetings, decorations and displays, excluding advertising signs disguised as seasonal decorations.

N. Noncommercial signs, subject to the following:

1. Signs shall be attached to a support structure.

2. Signs shall not be located in any areas set forth in Section 15.28.05 (J) of this Chapter.

3. The placement of signs on private property without the owners’ permission is prohibited.

4. Temporary noncommercial signs also comply with applicable Department of Transportation requirements.

5. General Commercial Zone (CG), C, and Limited Manufacturing Zone (ML) districts. Not to exceed sixteen square feet (16 sq. ft.) in area, six feet (6’) in height, and no more than one (1) sign everyone hundred lineal feet (100 LF) of property frontage.

6. Tourist and Administrative Zone (CO) and R zone districts (R-1, R-2, R-3). Up to two (2) signs, each sign not exceeding three square feet (3 sq. ft.) in area and four feet (4’) in height.

7. AR and RE zone district. Not more than one (1) sign not to exceed six square feet (6 sq. ft.) in area and six feet (6’) in height.

O. Window Signs, up to fifty percent (50%) (twenty five percent (25%) in Historic Area) of the cumulative area of all windows may be covered by window signs or graphics.

P. A-frame Signs during business hours. Subject to the following:
34 Item 6.

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1. Maximum dimensions and area: three feet (3’) wide and four feet (4’) in height, maximum twelve square feet (12 sq. ft).

2. Number per business: one (1).

3. Location. May be placed in front of the business if conflicts with vehicle safety are not caused and compliance with the American with Disabilities Act is maintained.

15.28.05 Prohibited Signs
Unless otherwise provided in this Chapter, the following types of signs are expressly prohibited and subject to the following requirements:

A. Off-site signs, including billboards, outdoor advertising structures, and directional signs except those provided in 15.28.04 (C).

B. Signs including animation characterized by varying intensity of color, patterns, illumination, spinning, glaring, rotating, and flashing lights, including illuminated window signs, except the following:

1. On-premises barber pole, not to exceed thirty inches (30”) in length, operated during business hours.

C. Feather signs, snipe signs, streamers, pennants, spinners, ribbons, and inflatable signs except those provided in 15.28.04 (A).

D. Signs advertising rooms available for transient stay at a residence.

E. Signs having one (1) or a combination of the following characteristics:

1. Obscene or Offensive to Morals. Any sign displaying obscene, indecent, or immoral matter as defined under the California Penal Code;

2. Imitative of Official Signs. Signs (other than when used for traffic direction) which contain or are an imitation of an official traffic sign or signal, public notices, such as zoning violations, building permits, business licenses and the like;

3. Natural Despoliation. Signs which are cut, burned, limed, painted or otherwise marked on a field, tree, rock or other natural item.

F. Unless otherwise provided for in this code, no person shall park any vehicle or trailer on a public right-of-way, or in a location on private property which is visible from a public right-of-way, which has attached thereto or suspended therefrom any sign, except a sign painted directly upon, magnetically affixed to or permanently affixed to the body or other integral part of a vehicle or trailer that is utilized for daily operations of the business and not solely for the purpose of advertisement.

G. Roof signs.

H. Changeable message signs, as defined in this chapter.

I. No sign shall be designed or used for the purpose of emitting sound.

J. No person (except a duly authorized public official permitted by the City for specific locations) may on public property, or a public right-of-way, erect, paint, print, nail or otherwise fasten any banner, sign, printed handbills, advertisement or notice of any kind on any lamp, pole, utility pole, bench, hydrant, bridge, wall, tree, landscape, sidewalk or structure in, upon or across any public street, alley or public property except as may be required, permitted by law or as otherwise regulated in this chapter. 35 Item 6.

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K. Excepting non-commercial signage, no sign shall be maintained on any fence, or be affixed to any trees or shrubs.

L. Obstruction of Fire Escape and Fire Access. No sign shall be erected, relocated, or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape or impede fire access to the roof.

M. Traffic Hazard. No sign shall be erected at or near a street, driveway, or alley in such a manner as to obstruct clear vision, or at any location where the position, shape or color may obstruct the view of, or be confused with, any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device, or which uses any word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere with or confuse traffic. Signs shall have a set back at least ten feet (10’) from the property line at an intersection of two (2) streets or the intersection of streets and alleys and streets and driveways.

N. Utility Lines and Easements. No sign or outdoor advertising structure shall be located within a utility easement or erected or located in a manner which will reduce the vertical or horizontal clearance from communication or energized electric power lines as required by laws, rules, and regulations of the state of California and agencies thereof.

Figure 2 illustrates prohibited sign types
36 Item 6.

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Figure 2: Prohibited Sign Types
37 Item 6.

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15.28.06 Sign Area
Sign Area. The area of individual signs shall be measured in accordance with Figure 3 below.

Figure 3 - Sign Area Measurement
A. Sign Faces Counted. Where a sign has two (2) faces containing sign copy, which are oriented back-to-back and separated by not more than twenty-four inches (24”) at any point, the area of the sign shall be measured using one (1) sign face only.

B. Wall-Mounted Letters. Where a sign is composed of letters individually mounted or painted on a building wall, without a border or decorative enclosure, the sign area is that of the smallest area within which all letters and words can be enclosed.

C. Three-Dimensional Signs. Where a sign consists of one (1) or more 3-D objects such as balls, cubes, clusters of objects, or sculptural or statue-type trademarks, the sign area shall be measured as the area of the smallest rectangle within which the object(s) can be enclosed, when viewed from a point where the largest area of the object(s) can be seen.

15.28.07 Signs Permitted—Residential Zoning Districts
A. AR.

1. For uses allowed under the City of Sonora Municipal Code Section

17.12.020, a single sign not to exceed sixty square feet (60 sq. ft.) in area.

B. RE, R-1, R-2, and R-3.
38 Item 6.

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1. Not more than one (1) sign identifying an entire subdivision, provided that the sign shall be located on subdivision property and in accordance with Table 1 below.

2. For multiple-family residences, one (1) monument sign per street frontage of lot, not to exceed six feet (6’) high, thirty-five square feet (35 sq. ft.) of sign area. Monument is not to exceed five feet (5’) inside the property line nor closer than one hundred feet (100’) from another freestanding sign on the same parcel.

Table 1: Signs Permitted in the R Districts
Advertising Relating to:

Maximum
Area (Square
Feet)
Maximum
Height
above Grade
(Feet)
Buildings or structures 32 8
Subdivisions of fewer than
5 acres 48 12
Subdivision of 5 or more
acres
65 12

15.28.08 Signs Permitted--- PD Zoning Districts
A. Signs in the Planned Development Zone (PD) district shall be approved with the development plan according to the City of Sonora Municipal Code Section 17.30.080.

If the development plan approved does not outline specific requirements for signage, the requirements of the zone district in which the use would be permitted will apply.

15.28.09 Historic Area Requirements
A. The purpose of this section is to provide guidance to applicants in the design, construction, and placement of signs located in the Historic Area. The application of this section to the Historic Area is in addition to the other sections contained in this Chapter and their requirements. If conflicts arise between this section and others in this Code, the more restrictive applies. It is intended that signs should protect and enhance the historic atmosphere of the downtown commercial area.

B. Signage in the Historic Area shall not obscure significant features, damage, or take away the overall architectural characteristics of any building or neighboring buildings in the Historic Area.

C. Signs within the Historic Area, bounded on the north by Elkin Street, on the south by Church Street, on the east by the centerline of Stewart Street and on the west by the centerline of Green Street, shall be designed and regulated as follows.

1. Wood is the preferred material for construction. Metal or combination of materials are allowed such that they work with the building’s period and style. Plastic signage is not permitted in the Historic Area. 39 Item 6.

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2. Non-illuminated or exterior illuminated signs are permissible. Exterior illuminated signs are permissible with a minimum opaque area of sixty-five percent (65%) of the sign face.

3. Interior illuminated signs, including neon signs, of any type or size are not allowed.

4. Lighting for exterior illuminated signs shall be so arranged that it will not create a hazardous glare for pedestrians or vehicles in a public street or on any private premises.

5. Each sign shall be designed so that illumination does not exceed ten (10) candlepower at a distance of ten feet (10’) from the sign.

6. Banner signs are permitted as temporary signs only, provided:
a. No larger than 16 square feet (16 sq. ft.) in size and related to the business occupying the building they are located on.
b. Limited to one (1) time only not to exceed thirty calendar days (30- days). For signs displaying the business name, a single thirty calendar days (30-days) extension may be granted if the applicant is timely pursuing development, processing, construction or installation of permanent signage.

7. Up to twenty-five percent (25%) of the cumulative area of all windows may be covered with a window sign or graphic.

15.28.10 Signs Permitted—CO, C, CG, and ML Zoning Districts The following signs are permitted for each business in commercial and industrial districts. For multi-tenant shopping centers or office parks containing six (6) or more individual tenants, Section 15.28.11 of this chapter shall apply. For an illustration of standards for selected sign types please refer to Figure 1.

A. Wall Signs.

1. Number of Signs per Business:
a. One (1) primary wall sign where the primary public entrance to the business is located. For businesses with more than one (1) public entrance, only one (1) shall be counted as the primary public entrance. b. One (1) secondary wall sign where the site abuts a street, parking lot, or alley and the primary wall sign is on a wall not facing the street, parking lot, or alley.

2. Calculation of Wall Sign Area.
a. For a primary wall sign, one square foot (1 sq. ft.) of sign area is permitted for each foot of linear occupancy frontage, as shown in Figure 4, up to a maximum of one hundred fifty square feet (150 sq. ft.) of sign area, whichever is less. Notwithstanding this regulation, all businesses with occupancy frontage shall be permitted a minimum of twenty-five square feet (25 sq. ft.) of primary wall sign.
b. Where a secondary wall sign is permitted, the maximum sign area shall be one-half (1/2) the permitted sign area of a primary sign. c. For multi-story buildings, each primary tenant shall be permitted one (1) sign mounted on the wall with the primary entrance, except for corner 40 Item 6.

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units which may be permitted a primary wall sign and a secondary wall sign.
i. Second floor primary tenants are allowed the same wall sign area as ground primary floor tenants in a separate sign area not to extend above the roofline.
d. Maximum Height. Not to exceed the top of the vertical wall surface on which the sign is mounted.

For an illustration of the calculations for wall signage, see Figure 4 on the following page.

B. Freestanding Signs.

1. Size and height. The sign area of each face and the sign height shall not exceed those areas and heights identified in the tables below, as applicable to the type of sign.

2. Pole Signs. Not subject to the tables below, a single pole sign per parcel shall be allowed at a height no greater than twenty feet (20’) and with a sign face area not to exceed 32 square feet (32 sq. ft.) on each side. When a pole sign is utilized as primary signage for the property and/or business, secondary signs shall not be permitted.

3. Shopping centers with a street frontage of seven hundred lineal feet (700 LF) or greater shall be allowed secondary tenant freestanding identification signs.
a. Number. Not to exceed one (1) for each main drive approach for a maximum of two (2) signs.
b. Sign area and height. Not to exceed thirty square feet (30 sq. ft.) each, with individual panels of no more than ten square feet (10 sq. ft.). Identification signs shall not exceed a maximum height of ten feet (10').
c. The signs shall be granted for minor tenants within the center, located more than one hundred fifty feet (150') from the street the business intends to serve.

4. Sign Design. Freestanding signs shall be designed as a monument sign with a solid base extending at least one-half (1/2) the width of the sign face.

5. Setbacks. A freestanding sign shall be set back a minimum of five feet (5’) from any property line.

6. In conjunction with businesses providing motor fuels for sale, an additional sign area allowance for pricing signs shall be sixteen square feet (16 sq. ft.) per side.
41 Item 6.

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Figure 4: Calculation of Permitted Wall Sign Area
Table 2: Monument Signs (one freestanding sign per street frontage) Street Frontage (in feet) Maximum Height
(in feet)
Maximum Face Area
(in square feet)
0 – 100 Not to Exceed 8 Not to Exceed 40
101 – 200 Not to Exceed 12 Not to Exceed 50
201 – 400 Not to Exceed 15 Not to Exceed 75
401 – Plus Not to Exceed 20 Not to Exceed 100
Table 3: Multi-Business Monument Signs (one freestanding sign per street frontage) Street Frontage of
Development
(in feet)
Maximum Height
(in feet)
Maximum Face Area
(in square feet)
0 – 100 Not to Exceed 8 Not to Exceed 45
101 – 200 Not to Exceed 12 Not to Exceed 55
201 – 400 Not to Exceed 15 Not to Exceed 75
401 – Plus Not to Exceed 20 Not to Exceed 100
42 Item 6.

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Table 4: Shopping Center Monument Signs (one freestanding sign per street frontage) Street Frontage of Center
(in feet)
Maximum Height
(in feet)
Maximum Face Area
(in square feet)
0 – 200 Not to Exceed 14 Not to Exceed 60
201 – 400 Not to Exceed 16 Not to Exceed 75
401 – 500 Not to Exceed 20 Not to Exceed 85
501 – Plus Not to Exceed 20 Not to Exceed 100
C. On-site Directional Signs.

1. Maximum height: four feet (4’).

2. Maximum area: six square feet (6 sq. ft.).

3. Number per site: one (1) per each side of a driveway from a public street.

4. Location. Directional signs shall be placed within five feet (5’) of a driveway that accesses the site from a public street.

D. Directory Signs.

1. Number per site: one (1) per public vehicle and/or pedestrian entrance when there are three (3) or more tenants on site.

2. Maximum area: two (2) square feet per tenant, not to exceed thirty-five square feet (35 sq. ft.) total.

3. Maximum height (if freestanding): six feet (6’).

4. Location. No directory sign which is a freestanding sign may locate closer than three feet (3’) to any point of ingress/egress.

E. Portable Signs.

1. Banners.
a. Number of Signs. One (1) banner sign viewable from the right-of-way is permitted per business, no limit on number of banner signs not viewable from the right-of-way.
b. Maximum Height. Not to exceed roof line. Banner signs shall not be attached to existing freestanding signs.
c. Maximum area: thirty-two square feet (32 sq. ft.), including allowable wall sign area.

F. Projecting Signs.

1. Maximum Height and Projection. Not to exceed roof line of attachment structure and may project over public rights-of-way not to exceed two-thirds (2/3) the distance from attachment structure to curb of sidewalk, maximum of six feet (6’) with two feet (2’) of clearance from sign to curb. (Note:

Bottom of sign shall be a minimum of eight feet (8’) from ground to provide proper clearance.)
43 Item 6.

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2. Number per Business. One (1) per business occupancy frontage. Permitted only where a wall sign is not used on the same wall.

3. Area. One-half square foot (1/2 sq. ft.) of sign area for each lineal foot of occupancy frontage, maximum of sixty square feet (60 sq. ft.).

G. Awning/Canopy Signs.

1. Number of Signs. Where an awning is present, one (1) sign may be applied to the awning.

2. Maximum Area. Not to exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the area of the individual surface on each awning/canopy, inclusive of wall sign area. .

3. Location. Awning signs shall be made of removable materials such as individual cut-out letters and/or symbols attached, stenciled or otherwise placed on the canopy surface, and may be located on exterior surfaces of a canopy.

H. Pedestrian Signs.

1. Number of Signs. One (1) pedestrian-oriented sign per tenant that projects or hangs above a sidewalk on each side of a building.

2. Size. Each sign may be a maximum of five square feet (5 sq. ft.) in size and may hang or be suspended no lower than eight feet (8’) above grade level. 44 Item 6.

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Figure 5: Selected Commercial and Industrial Sign Standards

15.28.11 Master Sign Programs
The purpose of Master Sign Programs is to harmonize the appearance of signs, in a manner allowing creativity in design and commercial identification, while avoiding extremes of size, color and shape. A Master Sign Program is also used to distribute allowable sign area for multi-tenant buildings and complexes. Master Sign Programs existing at the time of the adoption of this chapter may continue in effect, until modified.

A. Applicability. A Master Sign Program is required in new non-residential developments of six (6) or more separate tenant spaces that will share either the same parcel or structure and use common access or parking facilities.

B. Allowable Modifications. A Master Sign Program may provide for exceptions from the standards of this chapter, subject to Sonora Municipal Code Chapter 17.62. 45 Item 6.

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C. Review Authority. All Master Sign Programs are reviewed with a use permit and subject to approval by the Planning Commission, as per the City of Sonora Municipal Code Section 17.62.

D. Required Findings. In order to approve a Master Sign Program, the following findings must be met, in addition to other applicable regulations in this section:

1. The proposed signs are compatible in architectural style and character with any building to which the signs are to be attached, any surrounding structures and any adjoining signage on the site;

2. Future tenants will be provided with adequate opportunities to construct, erect, or maintain a sign for identification; and

3. Directional signage and building addressing is adequate for pedestrian and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access.

E. Revisions to Master Sign Programs. The Community Development Director may approve minor revisions to an approved Master Sign Program with a sign permit.

15.28.12 Design Guidelines and Requirements
All signage in commercial and industrial zones should incorporate attractive design elements consistent with the following, as applicable. For illustrations of selected design guidelines, see Figure 6.

A. Size. Notwithstanding applicable sign standards elsewhere in this chapter, sign size shall be proportionate to the size and scale of the site and/or building upon which the sign is proposed. Sign dimensions as specified in this chapter are maximum allowable dimensions; it may be necessary that signs be smaller than the maximum allowed, in order to be proportionate in size and scale to achieve the design objectives of this section.

B. Color. Colors should be used in coordinated groupings and should be compatible with those colors used in the building or project design. For cabinet-style signs, a dark sign background is preferred with light colored copy (characters/graphics).

C. Lighting Intensity. The light emitted or reflected by a sign, or emitted by a light source, shall be of reasonable intensity and compatible with the architecture of the building and the immediate vicinity. Artificial light sources shall be shielded to prevent light spillage, glare or annoyance to persons on or inside adjoining properties or to public or private rights-of-way.

D. Sign Bases and Frames. Freestanding signs shall be either housed in a frame, or set onto a base, presenting a solid, attractive, and well-proportioned appearance. The size and shape of the frame or base shall be proportionate to the size and mass of the sign and be low profile in design. Guy wires, angle irons, braces and other support or construction elements shall be screened or hidden from view.

E. Sign Copy. Sign copy should be simple and concise without excessive description of services or products. On freestanding signs, sign copy should be designed to contribute to the design of the structure on which it is displayed. In all cases, freestanding sign design and sign copy shall be coordinated to provide an attractively designed freestanding element which identifies the development or project. 46 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

F. Maintenance. All signs and their supporting components must be kept in good repair and always maintained in good structural condition. It is unlawful to permit vegetation, rubbish, or flammable material to accumulate within ten feet (10’) of any sign.

G. Design Quality. All signs should be professionally designed and manufactured. Signs that utilize hand-made lettering or elements must meet professional standards.

Figure 6: Selected Sign Design Guidelines

15.28.13 Signage at Closed Businesses and/or Vacant Sites A. Closed Business. When a business vacates and/or closes for a period of over ninety calendar days (90-days), the following shall apply:

1. Within ninety calendar days (90-days), the property owner shall ensure removal of the following:
47 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

a. All on-site signs faces, as well as any individual words, letters, figures or characters on the building and other structures on the property.
b. The sign face of freestanding and monument signs.

2. Any awning, structure or facade left exposed after sign, sign face, or sign structure removal shall be repaired to a customary finished appearance.

B. Vacant Buildings and Sites. When a site contains no buildings or contains no occupied buildings, it is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure the following:

1. No sign or structure that is not exempt by Section 15.28.04 of this chapter shall be constructed, erected, or displayed on a vacant site or on a site with no occupied buildings.

2. No temporary sign shall be constructed, erected or displayed, except that noncommercial signs may be erected and displayed in conformance with this chapter.

15.28.14 Special Use Signs
Certain uses, because of their special sign needs or their allowance in several districts, have been specifically listed in this section. Where such uses are approved, the sign standards allowed for such uses shall be as follows:

A. Auto/RV Sales (New Auto Sales Only with Incidental Used Vehicle Sales).

1. One (1) freestanding sign may be provided per separate new car showroom.

The minimum distance between freestanding signs shall be fifty feet (50’).

2. Freestanding signs for incidental used car sales shall be no higher than ten feet (10’) nor contain more than thirty-five square feet (35 sq. ft.) of area.

B. Drive-In or Drive-Up Uses. In addition to the sign area normally allowed, drive-up restaurants shall be allowed one menu board at the drive-through per drive aisle, not to exceed twenty square feet (25 sq. ft.) area nor six feet (6’) in height each.

C. Movie Theaters. In addition to the sign area normally allowed, a single cabinet or display box is allowed per screen, not to exceed fifteen square feet (16 sq. ft.) in area each. Electronic reader boards may be used for movie listings and show times.

15.28.15 Legal Nonconforming and Illegal Signs
A. Illegal Signs. Every sign in existence at the time the ordinance codified in this title became effective and which was prohibited or illegal at the time of installation, and which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, shall be an illegal sign. Such signs shall be removed immediately upon notification of illegality or brought to compliance with the standards of this chapter. Signs that are not constructed, maintained, or displayed pursuant to the requirements of this chapter and that are nonconforming shall be illegal.

B. Legal Nonconforming Signs. Every sign in existence at the time the ordinance codified in this title became effective and which sign was legal at the time of installation but that does not conform to the provisions of this chapter shall be a legal nonconforming sign.

A change of copy or sign face shall not be deemed a discontinuance of use. Any structural alteration to any part of the sign shall be deemed a discontinuance of use. A 48 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

nonconforming sign shall be made to conform immediately to the provisions of this chapter if:

1. The owner remodels a nonconforming sign display, or expands or enlarges the structure or land use upon which the advertising display is located;

2. The owner relocates a sign to another area of the existing site;

3. The sign is destroyed.

15.28.16 Administration and Enforcement
A. Signs and other advertising structures regulated in this chapter, when found by the building official to be unsafe or a menace to the public or erected in violation of the provisions of this chapter, shall be and constitute a public nuisance and shall be subject to enforcement under the provisions of Chapter 1.08 of the Sonora Municipal Code, General Penalties and Code Enforcement.

B. Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 1.08 of the Sonora Municipal Code, any person, firm, corporation, or organization found in violation of any provisions of this chapter shall be notified and cited in accordance with policies established by the Community Development Department and approved by the City Council.

C. Any sign or sign structure erected, altered, relocated, repaired, or maintained contrary to the provisions of this chapter is declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance. The City may immediately commence action or proceedings for the abatement, removal, and enjoinment thereof in the manner provided by law and may apply to courts to grant such relief as will abate and remove such sign or structure. The City may seek the recovery of all costs and fees, including attorneys’ fees, associated with the abatement of any sign or other advertising structure regulated in this chapter.

D. Appeal from Decision. Any person having record or title of legal interest in the building may submit a written appeal of any notice of violation or any action of the Community Development Department under this Code, as follows:
a. File a notice of appeal in writing, along with a one-hundred dollar appeals fee, prior to the close of the 15th day following the action of the Community Development Department;
b. Any notice of appeal shall set forth specific grounds upon which the appeal is taken and shall be signed by the person or persons appealing; c. Upon filing of such appeal, the City Clerk shall place the appeal on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the City Council;
d. At the time set for the meeting, the City Council shall proceed to hear and determine the same. The hearing may be continued, at the discretion of the City Council, in order to obtain further facts or hear further witnesses. Any determination by the City Council shall be final and conclusive and not subject to further appeal. 49 Item 6.

Ordinance 887
Signs

SECTION 2. SEVERABILITY. If any section, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance is, for any reason, held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct, and independent provision, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions thereof.

SECTION 3. PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days from and after its final passage and adoption, provided it is published in a newspaper of general circulation at least within fifteen (15) days after its passage or a summary of the Ordinance is published in a newspaper of general circulation at least five (5) days prior to adoption and again at least within fifteen (15) days after its passage.

SECTION 4. CERTIFICATION OF COUNCIL ADOPTION AND APPROVAL. This Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 7th of November, 2022, and passed and adopted as Ordinance No. 887 at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 21st of November, 2022 by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT OR ABSTAIN:
____________________________________
Mark Plummer, Mayor
ATTEST:

Tracy Skelly, Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
__________________________________
Douglas L. White, City Attorney
Publish: The Union Democrat, Sonora
____________________, 2022
50 Item 6.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Chris Gorsky, Administrative Services Director
SUBJECT: Consider accepting a Master Equity Lease Agreement and Full Maintenance Agreement between the City and Enterprise Fleet Management Inc.

RECOMMENDATION
Consider accepting the Master Equity Lease Agreement and Maintenance Agreement between the City of Sonora and Enterprise Fleet Management Inc. and authorize the City Administrator to execute the agreements.

DISCUSSION
It is best practice for cities to diversify fleet acquisition methods. Especially in this time of economic uncertainty, using the best acquisition options for each class of vehicle will enable the City to pursue the most economical replacement strategy. Adding the proposed lease equity acquisition option makes the most sense for the City’s light-duty fleet that has standard aftermarket upfit options and can be an option as the City updates other equipment.

The City has had trouble finding replacement vehicles on the market and, because of constrained resources, has continued to operate vehicles well past their useful lives. These older vehicles are less efficient, have fewer safety features and cost more to maintain than a modern fleet. By leasing vehicles, the City is able to maximize its limited resources and operate a safer fleet in the long term. In past years, when there have been resources budgeted for vehicle replacement, the City has replaced two patrol vehicles at a time. This lease agreement will allow the City to begin the process of replacing five outdated vehicles at lease commencement and plan on another five vehicles for the next fiscal year.

Staff have researched the use of an equity lease agreements to evaluate its usefulness as an economic acquisition method and this will allow the City to maximize cash flow while being a solution for fleet management. Enterprise was awarded a fleet management contract with Sourcewell, which provides government, education and nonprofit organizations with a cooperative purchasing program that manages solicitation requirements through a competitive process & offers a network of awarded contracts.

Some of the benefits are:
 Lower initial cost and flexibility when purchasing vehicles.  Allows for the maximizing of cash flow as we try to “catch-up” fleet replacement.  Provides access to a nationwide pool of vehicles for purchase.  Provide a full maintenance program for the leased vehicles.  Allows the City to replace outdated vehicles that have, in the past, been retained for parts. 51 Item 7.

FISCAL IMPACT
The fiscal impact of leasing vehicles is the difference between the value at the beginning of the lease versus the value at the end of the lease, less any residual value, essentially the City is paying the depreciation, paid monthly. In the example of Patrol Vehicles for the Police Department, the first-year cost to the General Fund for five (5) vehicles is approximately $98,000, depending on actual invoice cost and cost of upfitting. In years past, on average, we have replaced two vehicles per year and have budgeted over $100,000 each year. For our police department patrol fleet of fifteen vehicles, it would take 7 ½ years to replace.

The total change in budget for Fiscal Year 22/23 is $66,000 to start the program with the first five (5) vehicles (4/5 vote required).
52 Item 7.
53 Item 7.
54 Item 7.
55 Item 7.
56 Item 7.
57 Item 7.
58 Item 7.
59 Item 7.
60 Item 7.

Fund Project Description Amount Fund Account # Project Description Amount 400 403 Measure I: Transfer Out $66,000 001 49999 403 G/F Transfer In ($66,000) 001 55310 0 PD: Lease Expense $66,000
Total $66,000 Total $0
Authorization
(Date)
To Transfer Funding From Measure I:Police for the Leasing of five (5) police vehicles and increase appropriate line items.

REQUIRED: Please provide justification to support the need for the budget transfer. 5000
Transfer From
Department Account #
Transfer To
Department
5000 59999 5000
City of Sonora
Budget Transfer Request Form
Date
Business Office
Fiscal Year
Department Police: G/F & MI Budget Transfer #
4/17/2023 FY22-23 (Enterprise Lease)
Transaction Date
Document Number
Entered By:

Department Head
Finance Director
City Administrator
Finance Use Only
(Date)
(Date)
61 Item 7.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Chris Gorsky, Administrative Services Director
SUBJECT: Administrative Services Department Report for February 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Administrative Services Department Report for February 2023

DISCUSSION
Monthly Report to the City Council
February
Highlights of General Fund Revenues:

Current Period YTD FY22/23 Budget % of Budget
Property Tax $ 723 $ 884,343 $1,374,800 64.3%
Sales Tax $ 296,666 $ 2,276,575 $3,325,100 68.5%
Transient Occupancy Tax $ 46,170 $ 387,569 $ 550,000 70.5% Cannibis Public Benefit Fees $ 49,075 $ 395,645 $ 585,000 67.6% Building Permits $ 4,726 $ 102,277 $ 141,500 72.3%
Business Licenses $ 2,203 $ 123,241 $ 120,000 102.7%
Highlights of General Fund Expenditures:

Current Period YTD FY22/23 Budget % of Budget
Salaries and Benefits $ 495,343 $ 4,502,194 $7,337,800 61.4% Operating Expenditures $ 126,633 $ 1,399,811 $2,419,400 57.9% Transfers $ - $ 86,922 $ 660,000 13.2%

A/P YTD H/R YTD
Total Number of Checks/DD Processed: 146 1,026 93 926
Business License Activity:

Current Month
Zone A
Current Month
Zone B
YTD
Zone A
YTD
Zone B
Licenses Issued 3 20 23 104
The Administrative Services Department provides a wide range of comprehensive support services which include: accounting, finance administration and reporting, budgeting, audit, compliance, treasury management, payroll, human resources, recruitments, accounts receivable, local tax collection, accounts payable, procurements, business license management, risk management, information technology for the City.
62 Item 8.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Community Development Department Report for March 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Community Development Department Report for March 2023

DISCUSSION
In addition to the day-to-day operations of the Department, staff completed the following items:

STORMS – Following the March 11th storm, numerous hours of staff time was consumed with damage assessment of City property and facilities, along with working with private property owners to inspect and access the damages caused by the storm and related flooding. This continues to this point in time as damaged private property/buildings are being mitigated and repaired.

WASHINGTON-STOCKTON TRANSIT PROJECT – Construction at the site was schedule to begin on Tuesday March 7th with estimated completion in August. However, due to ongoing weather conditions the start of construction was delayed until the week of March 27th. Staff, in coordination with project engineers, reviewed numerous project submittals and requests for information submitted by the contractor, along final details to allow for the start of construction.

CARGO CONTAINER ORDINANCE – Staff finalized the draft Cargo Container Ordinance for the consideration by the Planning Commission at their April 10th meeting. The new ordinance establishes a procedure for staff to follow in reviewing cargo containers proposed in the City by requiring submittal of a Use Permit Application pursuant to Chapter 17.62. The ordinance outlines the requirements in placement, design, and safety to ensure the container will not provide for any negative impacts to the area or unsafe conditions. The Ordinance will be considered at the May 1, 2023 Council meeting.

ANNUAL GENERAL PLAN & HOUSING ELEMENT PROGRESS REPORT – Staff completed the City’s Annual General Plan and Housing Element Progress Report. The State requires that this report be presented to the City Council for their acceptance and then submitted to the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research and State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) by April 1 st. HCD will review the submitted report to assure that mandated requirements have been met.

FARMERS MARKET – The opening day for the Sonora Certified Farmers Market is Saturday, May 20th. Staff has updated vendor applications and the Market’s rules and regulations for the 2023 season. These have been provided to all of the previous Market’s vendors. Applications are due back to the City by April 21st in order to secure a spot at the Market. Staff is also finalizing permits and other documentation required to start the Market.

CDBG PROGRAM INCOME – Staff completed and released the Request for Proposal for the Wildland Urban Interface Fire Engine to be funded under the City’s available CDBG Program Income. Proposals are due back to the City on Friday, April 21st.
63 Item 9.

MONTH OF,
FEBRUARY 2023

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT

CITY OF SONORA
94 N. WASHINGTON ST.

SONORA, CA 95370

NAME LOCATION TYPE VALUATION FEES
NEW RESIDENTIAL TOTAL UNITS ___0____
SUBTOTAL ___0____
CDBG REHABS TOTAL UNITS ____0___
SUBTOTAL ___0_____
COMMERCIAL TOTAL UNITS __0_____
SUBTOTAL ___0____
ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS TOTAL UNITS 6

VAUGHAN DORIS
VAUGHAN GLENN A 327 CALAVERAS

7.1 KW ROOF
MOUNT SOLAR $ 36,330.00 $ 443.28

CASTELLO RAYMOND
V & W KARLA 286 N WASHINGTON

UPGRADE
PARKING SPACE $ 25,000.00 $ 416.25

TRUJILLO-DEAN
LINDSIE DEAN DANIEL 62 BANNER DR

7.1KW ROOF
MOUNT SOLAR $ 18,304.43 $ 211.00

TOWNSEND CATHY A
199 N WASHINGTON

5.625 KW

ROOFMOUNT
SOLAR $ 20,000.00 $ 496.40

PINK DANA L, PINK
JASON 659 TWILIGHT CT

21.2KW ROOF
MOUNT SOLAR $ 60,000.00 $ 525.27

WYMAN CHRISTINA
460 S WASHINGTON

9.25KW SOLAR

INSTALL AND

GENERATOR
INTERLOCK KIT $ 25,000.00 $ 522.75
DEMOLITIONS TOTAL UNITS ___0____

NAME LOCATION TYPE VALUATION FEE
SUBTOTAL ________
MISCELLANEOUS REPAIRS 64
Item 9.

NUMBER OF PERMITS VALUATION $ FEE
9 $170,003.50 $3,115.43
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERMITS ISSUED 15
TOTAL VALUATION 354,637.93
SUB TOTAL OF PERMIT FEES COLLECTED 5,730.38
TOTAL FIRE DEPARTMENT FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL TRAFFIC FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL FEES COLLECTED 5730.38

FISCAL YEAR TO DATE
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERMITS ISSUED 30
TOTAL VALUATION $ 1,160,157.80
TOTAL FIRE DEPARTMENT FEES COLLECTED $ 180.00

TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY FEES COLLECTED

TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION FEES COLLECTED
TOTAL TRAFFIC MITIGATION FEES COLLECTED $ -
TOTAL PERMIT FEES COLLECTED $ 15,107.61
65 Item 9.

MONTH OF,
MARCH 2023

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

DEPARTMENT

ACTIVITY REPORT

CITY OF SONORA
94 N. WASHINGTON ST.

SONORA, CA 95370

NAME LOCATION TYPE VALUATION FEES
NEW RESIDENTIAL TOTAL UNITS ___0____
SUBTOTAL ___0____
CDBG REHABS TOTAL UNITS ____0___
SUBTOTAL ___0_____
COMMERCIAL TOTAL UNITS __0_____
SUBTOTAL ___0____
ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS TOTAL UNITS 10
SANCHEZ JAMES 126 S WASHINGTON NEW SHEDOWNER BUILDER $ 3,000.00 $ 261.36

VAN RYNSOEVER
MICHAE 181 N WASHINGTON

RES SOLAR

ROOF MOUNT

14.43 KW
$ 43,300.00 $ 541.62

CENT CA CONF ASSN
7-DAY ADV SEVENTH

DAY ADVENTIST
SCHOOL
80 N FOREST RD TUFF SHED
INSTALL $ 16,000.00 $ 290.25
JOHNSON DAVID M 511 DRAGOON CIR C/O 40 GALLON
N/G W/H $ 1,500.00 $ 152.00

TRUONG DONALD &
KATHY D 461 MORNINGSTAR 8.73 KW ROOF MOUNT SOLAR $ 9,500.00 $ 312.51

WELCH CHRISTINA
MARIE TR 524 E JACKSON ST
8KW ROOF

MOUNT SOLAR
20 PV
$ 28,206.19 $ 516.33
AGGETTA ALISHA 165 COLUMBIA WAY INSTALL 2.5 TON
MINI-SPLIT $ 17,548.00 $ 360.87

FULTON STEPHEN D
2/8 OPIE STEPHEN M 690 SHAWSFLAT RD

ROOF MOUNT
SOLAR 8.880KW
AND NEW 200A
$ 26,700.00 $ 538.28
ANDERSON MALEE TR 210 WOODSIDE DR

5.4 KW ROOF

MOUNT SOLAR
RES
$ 16,500.00 $ 474.21
ANDERSON MALEE TR 210 WOODSIDE DR

RES REROOF

ASPHALT

SHINGLES
$ 13,712.50 $ 258.22
66 Item 9.

DEMOLITIONS TOTAL UNITS ___1____

NAME LOCATION TYPE VALUATION FEE

DHI SONORA GARDEN

APARTMENTS LP
100 GREENLEY RD demo 90,000 1,549.18
SUBTOTAL $1,549.18

MISCELLANEOUS REPAIRS
NUMBER OF PERMITS VALUATION $ FEE
4 $170,003.50 $3,115.43
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERMITS ISSUED 15
TOTAL VALUATION 600,766.69
SUB TOTAL OF PERMIT FEES COLLECTED 6,618.87
TOTAL FIRE DEPARTMENT FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL TRAFFIC FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL FEES COLLECTED 6,618.87

FISCAL YEAR TO DATE
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERMITS ISSUED 45
TOTAL VALUATION $1,760,924.49
TOTAL FIRE DEPARTMENT FEES COLLECTED $180.00

TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY FEES COLLECTED

TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION FEES COLLECTED

TOTAL TRAFFIC MITIGATION FEES COLLECTED
TOTAL PERMIT FEES COLLECTED $21,726.48
67 Item 9.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Aimee New, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Fire Department Monthly Report – March 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive Fire Department Monthly Report – March 2023

DISCUSSION
N/A

FISCAL IMPACT
N/A

1. City of Sonora Fire Department responded to 133 calls for service in March 2023.

2. City of Sonora Fire Department units responded to emergency calls as follows:
111 - Building fire 3
113 - Cooking fire, confined to container 1
150 - Outside rubbish fire, other 1
160 - Special outside fire, other 1
311 - Medical assist, assist EMS crew 15
321 - EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury 54 322 - Motor vehicle accident with injuries 2
324 - Motor vehicle accident with no injuries. 1
412 - Gas leak (natural gas or LPG) 1
444 - Power line down 1
461 - Building or structure weakened or collapsed 1
510 - Person in distress, other 4
520 - Water problem, other 1
521 - Water evacuation 2
550 - Public service assistance, other 1
553 - Public service 3
554 - Assist invalid 10
561 - Unauthorized burning 2
611 - Dispatched & cancelled en route 12
622 - No incident found on arrival at dispatch address 3 68 Item 10.
631 - Authorized controlled burning 1
651 - Smoke scare, odor of smoke 4
730 - System malfunction, other 2
735 - Alarm system sounded due to malfunction 1
743 - Smoke detector activation, no fire - unintentional 1 745 - Alarm system activation, no fire - unintentional 3 800 - Severe weather or natural disaster, other 2
Total Incidents 133

3. Monthly dollar loss in the City, resulting from fire: $3,100.00

4. The average response time during the month: 5.28

5. Automatic or mutual aid given: 22
69 Item 10.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Turu VanderWiel, Chief of Police
SUBJECT: MONTHLY REPORT – SONORA POLICE DEPARTMENT

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Sonora Police Department monthly report for March 2023.

DISCUSSION
The attached summarizes activities for March 2023.

Mar 2023 Feb 2023 Mar 2022
Total Incidents 1,216 1,049 1,256
Calls for Service 781 667 623
Officer Initiated 435 382 663
Total Arrests 46 43 66
Felony Arrests 8 10 6
Misd. Arrests 38 33 57
Total Reports 118 109 152
Parking Citations 20 9 27
Moving Citations 9 3 33
Domestic Violence 3 6 2
Larceny Invest. 9 11 6
Total Collisions 17 24 24
Collision Invest. 7 13 14
70 Item 11.

Mar 2023 Feb 2023 Mar 2022
Homeless Activity 85 112 82
Animal Calls 19 25 37
Public Intox. / UID 12 5 9
DUI Arrests 4 1 12
Total Phone Calls /
911 Calls
2,262/384 2,536/344 1,977/172
Average Per Day 73 91 64
Vehicle Releases 5 6 10
*Homeless Activity tracking requires additional manual inputs; the actual number of associated incidents will typically be higher than the reported number. *The Larceny Investigation category reflects only those incidents where an investigation is conducted and a case report is generated. The actual number of larcenies is considerably higher.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact on the General Fund
71 Item 11.

AREA 1
Violent Crimes:
-1 Felony Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Not Firearm)
-1 Felony Threats
-3 Misdemeanor Domestic Violence
Burglaries / Other Larceny:
-3 Business Burglaries (Shoplifting).
-1 Residential Burglary
-1 Stolen Vehicle (Recovered in Arizona)
-1 Petty Theft from a Vehicle
-1 Petty Thefts from a Business
AREA 2
Violent Crimes:
-1 Arson of a Business
-1 Felony Threats
Burglaries / Other Larceny:
-1 Burglary of a Youth Center
-1 Residential Burglary
03/01/2023 - 03/31/2023
72 Item 11.

Area 1 Monthly Report
March 2023
Neighborhood Watch:

ELKS HILL:
 No updated activity.

SONORA KNOWLES:
 No updated activity.

Cases For discussion:
23-288- On 3/11/2023 at about 1745 hours, Officers were dispatched to a fire underneath a downtown business beside a creek. During the investigation, Officers discovered a transient male, 37-year-old William Vannortwick, yelling for help to be rescued from the rushing creek.

Responders and fire personable had to cut a hole in the business floor to rescue Vannortwick.

Vannortwick admitted to crawling down the creek and underneath the business where he started a warming fire that got out of control and caused some damage to the business.

Vannortwick was arrested for causing an unpermitted fire to get out of control, causing property damage.
23-295- On 3/13/2023 at 0206 hours, an Officer was dispatched to a possibly intoxicated male subject in a vehicle, and the engine was revving. The Officer contacted the driver, identified as 32-year-old Groveland resident Garrett Maxwell. Maxwell submitted to, and failed Field Sobriety Testing and was arrested for DUI. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed the finding of a loaded and non-serialized/unregistered “Polymer 80” type semiautomatic handgun concealed within the vehicle. Maxwell was arrested for additional charges of possession of the concealed and loaded handgun within the vehicle.

Recruitments:
 3 Full-time Police Officers
 1 Full-time Dispatcher
Training:
 One Dispatcher attended Records training
 One Officer attended Crisis Intervention Training
 One Corporal attended Social Media Warrant writing training  One Dispatcher attended NIBRS training
 One Command Staff member attended California Police Chief’s Association training  One Officer attended tactical patrol rifle training
Range:
 Quarterly range training will be conducted in the following month of April.

Dispatch:
 One part-time dispatcher in training; one full-time vacancy. Testing is scheduled for April

12. Respectfully Submitted,
Sgt. Chris Johnson
73 Item 11.

Area 2 Monthly Report
March 2023
Neighborhood Watch:

MYERS HILL:
 No updated activity.

NORTH STEWART:
 No updated activity.

HIGHLAND VIEW:
 No updated activity
Case(s) For discussion:
23-282- On 03/10/2023, at approximately 0552 hours, an officer was dispatched to Shepard St. to investigate a report of a female who claimed she had been kidnapped. The female’s hands were bound, and her face and head were covered in blood. Upon further investigation, it was determined the female was the victim of a kidnapping that originally occurred in Soulsbyville, Ca. An initial investigation was conducted by officers from Sonora PD, and the case was later transferred to the Tuolumne County Office of the Sheriff for follow-up.

Field Training Program:
 One new Sergeant passed his training program
 One part-time Dispatcher in training
 One pert time Community Service Officer in training
Investigations:
23-197-On 03/27/2023, Sonora PD closed an elder abuse case involving an individual who was the victim of a theft. The victim reported suspects entered his home and stole several credit cards listed in his name. The suspects then withdrew approximately $22,000 from his checking account and transferred the money into their own personal banking accounts. The detective assigned to this case was able to identify the two suspects responsible for the theft. The case was submitted to the Tuolumne County District Attorney’s Office for review, and the suspect were arrested soon afterward.

Property and Evidence:
 The property room is undergoing an internal audit and reorganization. This is a laborintensive effort but will ensure accountability and compliance with state guidelines.

Fleet:
 4 police patrol vehicles have been decommissioned
Reserves/Volunteers:
 Officer Michael Carson submitted his letter of resignation  On Sonora PD volunteer participated in the Tuolumne County Volunteer Fair Respectfully Submitted,
Sgt. Eric Nygard
74 Item 11.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 17, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Mike Lagomarsino, Public Works Supervisor
SUBJECT: Public Works Department Report for March 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Public Works Department Report for March 2023

DISCUSSION
For the month of March 2023, the City of Sonora Public Works Department performed the following activities:

Events
 Placed banners above Washington Street for upcoming events.  Traffic signal bulb replacement training (New hires).  Traffic Control training.
 Snow Plow training.
 Annual pesticide training.
 Deployed CMS boards for storm warnings.

Streets
 Sanded and plowed numerous streets following storms.
 Spent several days potholing City Streets.
 Removal and disposal of diseased deer on Mono Way.
 Straightened and repaired numerous street signs throughout the City.  Removed graffiti on numerous street signs and other areas throughout the City.  Placed sand bags at several locations on City streets during flooding event, along with closing several roads.
 Debris removal from landslides at several locations, as well as repair slides.  Closure of Tuolumne Road due to failure until road can be repaired.

Facilities
 Caulked several locations on exterior portions on the Fire Museum facility.  Made more repairs to roof on the tin shed storage building on Southgate drive.  Cleaned gutters at Opera Hall, as well as patch leaky roof.

Parks/Landscapes/Parking Lots
 Flushed mud from asphalt portion of Dragoon Gulch Trail following flooding.  Graffiti removal in Rotary Park.
 Replaced lights and timer for historical monument sign in Prospector Park. 75 Item 12.
 Pruned landscapes in Prospector Park, Rotary Park, and Pesce Way.  Replace distressed regulatory parking signs in Fountain Parking Lot.  Repaired hand railing in Restano Way landscape area.

Storm Drains
 Spent SEVERAL days digging debris out of storm drains, as well as ditches and culverts, following rain/snow events.

Cemeteries
 Prepared required monthly reports, installed headstones, checked messages daily, and returned phone calls.
 Made repairs to eroded drainage ditch at Mountain Shadow Cemetery.

Miscellaneous
 Performed routine daily and monthly activities including regular checking of parks and landscape areas for maintenance needs and safety concerns, garbage collection at City facilities, cleaning and stocking City restrooms, opening of gate to Dragoon Gulch Trail parking lot, routine maintenance of City vehicles, participation on assigned committees, weekly mowing of lawns at Mt Shadow Cemetery and Rotary Park, and weekly sweeping of City Streets.

FISCAL IMPACT
None
76 Item 12.