Sonora City Council
May 15, 2023

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING - MAY 15, 2023 PAGE 1 OF 4

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
Monday, May 15, 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, May 15, 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: Turu VanderWiel, Police Chief.
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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

2. Introduction and Swearing in of Police Corporal Michael Paulsen; Turu VanderWiel, Police Chief.

3. Receive a presentation from Visit Tuolumne County, provide comment and input into the scope of services, and direct staff to execute an Agreement effective July 1, 2023; Lisa Mayo, Executive Director.

4. Receive testimony from members of our local LGBTQ+ community, mental health experts, legal experts, and the public on issues currently facing the LGBTQ+ community, what Pride Month means to them, and consider drafting a City resolution recognizing the month of June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Sonora, thus standing in solidarity with the County Board of Supervisors; Andy Merrill, City of Sonora Councilmember.

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 $167,255.35 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.

6. Consider authorization to accept a BSCC’s Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant program application not to exceed $15,000 and approve associated budget adjustments for use of the funding; Turu VanderWiel, Police Chief.

7. Consider adoption of Resolution No. 05-15-2023-A approving a list of projects to receive Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account Funding (RMRA); Christopher Gorsky, Administrative Services Director.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

8. Introduce by title Ordinance No. 891, amending Section 17.04.010, Definitions, amending Section

17.32.065, Additional Activities Requiring Design Review, and adding Chapter 17.44, Cargo Containers, under Title 17, Zoning, of the Sonora Municipal Code, and waive the first reading; Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director.

NEW BUSINESS

9. Consider approval of award to Burton’s Fire Inc. for the not-to-exceed amount of $315,000 to purchase a Type 6 Wildland Urban Interface Fire Engine and authorize the City Administrator to sign the purchase contract and all related project documents; Aimee New, Fire Chief, Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director.

10. Provide staff direction regarding the use of City sidewalks under the new Encroachment Permit Ordinance; Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director.

MONTHLY REPORTS

11. Receive the Sonora Administration Department monthly report for March 2023; Christopher Gorsky, Administrative Services Director.

12. Receive the Sonora Community Development Department report for April 2023; Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director.

13. Receive the Sonora Fire Department monthly report for April 2023; Aimee New, Fire Chief.

14. Receive the Sonora Public Works Department monthly report for April 2023; Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director, Mike Lagomarsino, Public Works Supervisor.

15. Receive the Sonora Police Department monthly report for April 2023; Turu VanderWiel, Police Chief.

COMMUNICATIONS

16. Receive a letter supporting the League of California Cities' participation in an informational hearing calling on the Legislature to provide solutions to the fentanyl and substance abuse crisis.

17. Receive letters sent to the California State Assembly and Senate opposing Assembly Bill 742, a bill eliminating the use of canines in Policing.

COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS

ADJOURN INTO CLOSED SESSION

18. 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.

19. Threat to Public Services or Facilities (Government Code §54957); Consultation with: Aimee New, Fire Chief; Melissa Eads, City Administrator.

RECONVENE INTO OPEN SESSION [City Council Chambers]
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OPEN SESSION

REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION

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. 4 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Turu VanderWiel, Chief of Police
SUBJECT: Introduction of Newly Promoted Police Corporal

RECOMMENDATION
Introduction and Swearing in of Police Corporal Michael Paulsen.

DISCUSSION
Michael Paulsen was born and raised in the Bay Area and joined the US Navy as a Military Police Officer in 2007. He completed his tour of service in 2015 after having achieved a leadership position and attended the University of Wyoming, graduating with a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice. Mr. Paulsen is now finishing the requirements for a Masters in Public Administration through the University of Wyoming.

We hired Michael in September 2019 and sponsored him to attend the San Joaquin Delta College Police Academy. Earlier this year, he was selected as a Field Training Officer and is the recipient of the Sonora Police Departments Pandemic Service Ribbon, the Washington Fire Service Ribbon, and a Commendation Ribbon in 2021.

The City held testing for Corporal in March, and Michael was officially promoted on April 1, 2023.

Corporal is a junior leadership position established to expand our agency's supervisory and leadership oversight. Paulsen is the second Corporal in the Sonora Police Departments History.

FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the General Fund as this position was previously funded. 5 Item 2.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 6, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Melissa Eads, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Receive a presentation from Visit Tuolumne County on the Scope of Services proposed for the City of Sonora and provide direction to execute an agreement with Visit Tuolumne County effective July 1, 2023.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends Council receive the Presentation from Visit Tuolumne County, provide comment and input into scope of services and direct staff to execute an Agreement effective July 1, 2023.

DISCUSSION
The City of Sonora has contracted for Tourism Marketing services with Visit Tuolumne County (VTC) and the County of Tuolumne for the past 40 years. This is the first year the City is exploring an independent contract and detailed specialized services aimed solely at the marketing and branding of the City of Sonora and its locations, businesses, and community attractions.

The Transient Occupancy Tax is a tax collected from lodgers when they rent a room, campsite, or vacation rental when traveling for less than 30 days.

The City Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) rate is currently 12%. This rate recently increased by the Sonora voters in 2020 from 10%. Last year, the City budgeted $550,000 in TOT revenue. Revenue estimated for FY 23/24 is $570,000. The allocation of TOT to VTC has historically been 25% of the 10% rate. The City proposes to compensate the VTC $142,500 for FY 23/24, or 25% of the total TOT collected. The balance of all TOT revenue collected goes directly to support essential city services.

For more information on TOT, please refer to Attachment No. 1 The scope of services to be presented by VTC include the following:

Tourism Marketing Scope of Work for The City of Sonora
Proposed Campaigns:

Small Towns and Wellness- Market and industry research suggests that two of the top travel trends for 2023 and 2024 will be small towns and wellness. Travelers are looking for authentic Americana small towns and they are prioritizing wellness during their travels. These trends align with the City of Sonora’s assets. Visit Tuolumne County will design marketing campaigns around these trends and will focus on the audiences of families, millennials, and boomers.

Special Projects:
6 Item 3.

Visit Sonora Logo- $550
 Aligning with the Visit Tuolumne County Brand our graphics team will design and create a Visit Sonora-specific logo that will be used to promote the City of Sonora on any advertising efforts.

Sonora Selfie Trail- $5,000
 The VTC team will work with the Sonora Chamber of Commerce and the City of Sonora to identify “Social Media and Selfie” spots. VTC will then work with the technology platform, Bandwango, to create a mobile-friendly pass.

Photo Shoot- $1,500-$2,000
 VTC will work with a local photographer to capture content for marketing and promotional purposes. We will work to source talent that aligns with previously defined target audiences of families, millennials, and boomers. We will also focus the content on our proposed campaigns of Small Town Travel and Wellness.

Awards Submissions- $450
 VTC will craft and submit for the annual Sunset Travel Awards. The City of Sonora will qualify for three categories: Where to Visit, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay.

Community Investment Project-$2,500
 VTC will develop a marketing campaign to support the community. VTC will work on a project that will help to invest in the well-being of the community. This project would be something along the lines of a community awareness project, public art installation, or a clean-up day.

Newsletter Template and Social Media Optimization - $2,500  VTC will design a newsletter template for the City of Sonora. The City of Sonora will draft newsletters to send to the community. VTC will work with its social media agency to strategize on how to optimize the City of Sonora’s social media outlets. VTC will also work to drive traffic to the City’s social media platforms.

Advertising:

Print Ads- $20,000
 VTC will secure print ads in key markets including the East Bay Area and Sacramento. Some outlets include Diablo Magazine, Sacramento Magazine, Sactown Magazine, and the Visit California Travel Guide Co-op.

Digital Ads- $15,000
 VTC will work with Visit California and utilize their Leveraged Media Co-op Plan to secure pre-negotiated rates for digital ads placed in our key markets. 7 Item 3.

Social Ads- $1,500
 VTC’s social team will run dedicated Sonora social media ads that inspire extended visitation and overnight stays.

Familiarization Tours
Media Familiarization Tour- $1,000
 VTC will dedicate one domestic media familiarization tour to the City of Sonora. The VTC staff will vet the journalist and create a Sonora specific itinerary. This cost includes travel, meals, lodging, and any activities for the journalist.

Meetings Familiarization Tour- $1,000
 VTC will identify and vet a meeting planner that specializes in organizing small meetings. VTC will work with the City of Sonora and our partners in Sonora to tour meeting facilities, hotels, and restaurants. This cost includes travel, meals, lodging, and any activities for the meeting planner.

Influencer Partnership- $3,500
 VTC will source and vet an influencer partnership for the City of Sonora. This cost includes a negotiated partnership rate and costs associated with travel.

Shared Marketing Costs – Costs Shared with Tuolumne County International Markets-$17,200
 VTC will continue our international marking in Mexico, Canada, and the UK. This cost includes 10% of the international contracts.

Public Relations-$2,900
 This cost includes the technology platform, Muck Rack, that VTC uses to send out media pitches and press releases. Also included in this cost is media conferences, VTC will attend key conferences to meet with media and pitch Tuolumne County and the City of Sonora to key media representatives.

Creative Design- $2,700
 VTC works with a contracted graphic designer for all creative designs for advertising.

Travel Guide- $7,000
 Every year VTC puts out a travel guide and distributes it across California. This cost includes a small portion of printing, distribution, and mailing costs.

Education Conferences- $1,400
 To keep up with industry and marketing trends VTC attends industry conferences.

These conferences introduce the team to new products, ways of doing business and of course the latest in market research and tourism trends. 8 Item 3.

Trade and Meetings Conferences- $6,400
 To continue growing our groups and meetings initiatives, VTC will attend travel trade and meeting conferences to meet with key tour operators and meeting planners to pitch Tuolumne County and the City of Sonora.

Dues and Subscriptions- $1,500
 To leverage our partnerships and marketing reach, VTC belongs to several important industry associations. Each association is relevant to the success and growth of VTC.

Research-$3,600
 VTC utilizes research technologies to identify key audiences and track return on investment (ROI) on marketing campaigns.

Office Expenses- $11,500
 These costs include rent, utilities, office expenses, and other costs associated with operating the VTC Visitors Center and staff offices which are located in downtown Sonora.

Pay Roll- $45,000
 This cost is associated with the staff time that will be dedicated to the City of Sonora.

This includes salary, benefits, payroll services, and any tax-associated costs.

It should be noted that promotion for the City of Sonora is woven throughout Visit Tuolumne County’s marketing and promotions. Things like the Community Investment Funds that support Sonora-based events like 2
nd Saturday Art Nights and Concerts, Christmas Town, and the Mother Lode Round-Up will still be available in addition to the Scope of Work above.

FISCAL IMPACT
The allocation to VTC would increase $10,000 next fiscal year from $132,000 to $142,500, based upon estimates, if Council supports the allocation of 25% of the total TOT collected. This change appears to be supported by the voters with the passage of the TOT increase based upon the marketing materials as presented in Attachment No. 1.
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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 6, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Andy Merrill, City Councilmember
SUBJECT: Consider authorization of a Resolution recognizing the month of June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month

RECOMMENDATION
Hear testimony from members of our local LGBTQ+ community, mental health experts, legal experts, and the public on issues currently facing the LGBTQ+ community, what Pride Month means to them, and consider drafting a City resolution recognizing the month of June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Sonora, thus standing in solidarity with the County Board of Supervisors.

DISCUSSION
Last year, the Tuolumne County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to recognize the month of June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Tuolumne County. This was a monumental resolution that recognized the rights to self-expression and self-determination of an historically discriminated and underrepresented demographic of our community.

It has never been easy to identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. The recent study done by the Tuolumne County Review Council, Discrimination in Tuolumne County: Amplifying the voices of the marginalized 2021-2022, sums up the effects of discrimination:
“When intolerance prevents individuals from exercising their talents, there tends to be widespread, long lasting effects. Discrimination affects people’s opportunities, their well-being, and their sense of agency. Persistent exposure to discrimination can lead individuals, especially youth, to internalize the prejudice or stigma that is directed toward them, manifesting in shame, low self-esteem, fear and stress, self-isolation, and poor health. The economic effect results in an astonishing loss of revenue (Cost of Racism: U.S. Economy Lost $16 Trillion Because of Discrimination, Citibank says.” Adedayo Akala, NPR, September 23, 2020.). In contrast, social inclusion harnesses our diversity as a fuel for small business formation, creativity, public interest, tourism, and innovation.” For the most part, current national ideologies have trended toward recognizing the rights of all Americans to love and be loved by who they choose, and express themselves without fear of discrimination and/or punishment. “Live and let live” has long been a cornerstone of an ideal American Democracy. However, recent regressive and constitutionally unsound legislation has been introduced in numerous states, effectively censoring the citizen’s right to freedom of expression and public gatherings. More locally, Supervisor Anaiah Kirk overstepped his authority as a Government Official and tyrannically requested peaceful, legal, and county authorized events to be shut down due to their associations with LGBTQ+ community members and organizations. He has cited his Christian religious beliefs as the reason behind his oppressive demands, which by any reasoning is completely inappropriate behavior by a representative of the public. 35 Item 4.

This issue is brought before the council primarily due to the language included in the recently passed Social Equity Resolution:
“WHEREAS, the City of Sonora is committed to seeking a thoughtful and inclusive way to heal the wounds and inequities, reconcile the divide, and take steps to make sure that acts of violence, aggression, and exclusion will not happen against any marginalized groups, including but not limited to, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), those living in poverty, and those unhoused, those with mental or physical disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community… WHEREAS, the City of Sonora proclaims that it is committed to diversity, equity, and an atmosphere of inclusiveness and it respects the dignity of every person without regard to race, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, immigration status, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or political affiliation. The City denounces all hate and discrimination in any form…” The views expressed by Supervisor Anaiah Kirk, and other misguided individuals in our community do not represent the values enshrined in our Social Equity Resolution, nor do they reflect the ideologies of our community at large. They were intended to stoke fear, raise alarm over straw-man ideologies, and sow division amongst our community. It is the responsibility of this council, acting as elected representatives of all our community members, to recognize the voices wishing to speak freely and openly, and ensure an inclusive and safe environment for all.

This agenda item is intended to be educational, informative, and inspire thought and positive solutions to hate speech and ideology. I’m excited to welcome our honored guest speakers and members of our community to speak before this Council today.

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

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Tracy Skelly, Administrative Services Officer
SUBJECT: Disbursements in the amount of $167,255.35 for payroll

RECOMMENDATION
Consider approval of disbursements in the amount of $167,255.35 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 second (1
st) payroll of the month, which was an expected amount.

This payroll is the 22
nd payroll of 26 for FY22-23, we would have expected to expend 84.62% of the budgeted amount. In total, we have expended 77.47% of the Salaries and Wages for the FY 22/23 budget.

FISCAL IMPACT
Disbursements are part of the approved FY22-23 Budget.
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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Jennifer Hannula, Lieutenant
SUBJECT: BSCC’s Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant Program Application

RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the Sonora Police Department, to accept a BSCC’s Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant program application not to exceed $15,000 and approve associated budget adjustments for use of the funding.

DISCUSSION
The Sonora Police Department is requesting the City Council authorize the Police Department to accept grant funding from the BSCC’s Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant program.The Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant Program, established in the 2022 Budget Act (Assembly Bill 178, Chapter 45, Statutes of 2022), provides $50 million for city and county law enforcement agencies for the purpose of improving officer wellness and expanding mental health sources.The allocation of funds was determined by the number of peace officers described in Penal Code section 830.1. If awarded, the Police Department wishes to utilize an officer wellness app, that gives Police Department staff mental health guidance at their fingertips. The funding would also be used by department staff for in person mental health services as needed.

There is no required match, however, the expectations are for a commitment from the City of Sonora to support the mental health of it’s officers and support staff. The Police Departments' operating budget would absorb ancillary operating expenses such as officer’s on-duty time to attend to attend mental health services.

FISCAL IMPACT
The attached budget adjustment would increase the overall budget appropriation of the Police Department by approximately $15,000.
38 Item 6.

Fund Amount Fund Account # Amount
BSCC Grant program 001 52010-503 $15,000.00
Total $0.00 Total $15,000.00
Authorization
City Administrator
(Date)
Entered By:

Department Head
Finance Director
(Date)
(Date)
Transaction Date
Document Number
Budget Adjustment to Award of the BSCC (Board of State and Community Corrections) Officer Wellness and Mental Health Grant Award REQUIRED: Please provide justification to support the need for the budget transfer.

Finance Use Only
Transfer From
Department Account #
Transfer To
Department
Officer Wellness Mental Health 5000
City of Sonora
Budget Transfer Request Form
Date FY 2022-2023
Budget Transfer #
Business Office
Fiscal Year
Department
5/15/2023
POLICE
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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Chris Gorsky, Administrative Services Director
SUBJECT: SB1 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account Funding

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution No. 05-15-2023-A approving a list of projects to receive Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account Funding (RMRA).

DISCUSSION
On April 28, 2017, the Governor signed Senate Bill 1 (SB1), which is known as the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. To address basic road maintenance, rehabilitation, and critical safety needs on both State and Local roads, SB1 increased per gallon fuel excise taxes, diesel fuel sales taxes and vehicle registration fees; and provided for inflationary adjustments to tax rates in future years.

In order to be eligible for RMRA funding, statue requires cities to provide basic annual projects reporting to the California Transportation Commission. All projects proposed to receive funding must be included in an approved budget and list adopted by the City Council at a regular public meeting.

Eligible projects include:
 Road maintenance and rehabilitation
 Safety projects
 Traffic control devices

FISCAL IMPACT
SB 1 will provide the City with Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account funding totaling approximately $128,000 in FY 2023-24 bringing total balance in the RMRA Fund to approximately $525,000.

ATTACHEMENTS:
 Resolution No. 05-15-2023-A
42 Item 7.
1 RESOLUTION NO. 05-15-2023-A
RESOLUTION ADOPTING A LIST OF PROJECTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023-24 FUNDED BY SB 1: THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 (Chapter 5, Statutes of 2017) was passed by the Legislature and Signed into law by the Governor in April 2017 to address the significant multi-modal transportation funding shortfalls statewide; and
WHEREAS, SB 1 includes accountability and transparency provisions that will ensure the residents of our City are aware of the projects proposed for funding in our community and which projects have been completed each fiscal year; and
WHEREAS, the City must adopt by resolution a list of projects proposed to receive fiscal year funding from the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA), created by SB 1, which must include a description and the location of each proposed project, a proposed schedule for the project’s completion, and the estimated useful life of the improvement; and WHEREAS, the City, will receive an estimated $128,000 in RMRA funding in Fiscal Year 2023-24 from SB1; and
WHEREAS, this is the seventh year in which the City is receiving SB 1 funding and will enable the City to continue essential road maintenance and rehabilitation projects, safety improvements, repairing and replacing aging bridges, and increasing access and mobility options for the traveling public that would not have otherwise been possible without SB 1; and WHEREAS, the City used a Project Priority List to develop the SB 1 project list to ensure revenues are being used on the most high-priority and cost-effective projects that also meet the communities priorities for transportation investment; and WHEREAS, the funding from SB 1 will help the City maintain and rehabilitate active transportation infrastructure throughout the City this year and similar projects into the future; and WHEREAS, the 2021 California Statewide Local Streets and Roads Needs Assessment found that the City’s streets and roads are in an “poor” condition and this revenue will help us increase the overall quality of our road system and over the next decade will bring our streets and roads into a “at-risk” condition; and
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2 WHEREAS, the SB 1 project list and overall investment in our local streets and roads infrastructure with a focus on basic maintenance and safety, investing in complete streets infrastructure, and using cutting-edge technology, materials, and practices, will have significant positive co-benefits statewide.

NOW, THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, ORDERED AND FOUND by the City Council of the City of Sonora, State of California, as follows:

1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct.

2. The following list of proposed projects will be funded in-part or solely with fiscal year 2023-24 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account revenues:

1. Location: Snell Street (City Limits to Bonanza)
Project: Overlay and Striping
Useful Life: 20 Years
With an estimated completion date in FY23/24

2. Location: Linoberg Street and Bradford Street
Project: Repair Failed Retaining Wall and Curb
Useful Life: 20 Years
With an estimated completion date in FY23/24.

The foregoing Resolution of the City Council of the City of Sonora was PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council, State of California, at a public hearing held on this 15 th Day of
May, 2023, by _____________________, who moved its adoption, which motion was duly seconded by _____________________, and the Resolution adopted by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

EXCUSED:

APPROVED:
_________________________
Mark Plummer,
Mayor of the City of Sonora
ATTEST:
________________________
Tracy Skelly, Clerk City of Sonora
44 Item 7.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE:

TO:

FROM:

SUBJECT:

May 15, 2023
City Council Members
Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director
Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44, Cargo Containers

RECOMMENDATION
Introduce by title Ordinance No. 891, amending Section 17.04.010, Definitions, amending Section

17.32.065, Additional Activities Requiring Design Review, and adding Chapter 17.44, Cargo Containers, under Title 17, Zoning, of the Sonora Municipal Code, and waive the first reading.

DISCUSSION
There have been multiple complaints submitted to the Community Development Department regarding cargo containers being placed unpermitted, within parking areas, and in a way that would create a negative impact on the image of the neighborhood. The current code regulating cargo container placement is found in Section 17.32.065, Additional Activities Requiring Design Review, and is limited to the Design Review boundary. The section lacks specific requirements and standards for placement leaving staff to ambiguously interpret implementation of the code. Due to this lack of current standards, staff has struggled to address these concerns.

In response to this staff prepared Ordinance 891, Cargo Containers, for the City Council’s consideration which addresses the placement of cargo containers within City limits. The purpose of this ordinance is to allow cargo containers to be placed on private property in a manner that is safe and secure and will not create adverse impacts to either the property on which they are located or to the immediate neighborhood. With the rising popularity and use of cargo containers and similar structures, the goal is to allow the benefit to property owners while achieving standards that will prevent them from becoming a nuisance to the community and creating any unsafe conditions.

As stated above, the proposed ordinance takes into consideration design aesthetics, safety, and zoning regulations so as not to create an adverse effect on surrounding areas. The proposed 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. This would require applications for cargo containers to be conditionally approved at the discretion of the Planning Commission after demonstrating compliance with the ordinance.

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. It includes standards regarding design and aesthetics to reduce the visual impact to surrounding areas. Many of the cargo containers are worn, have branding from freight use, missing paint, and surface rust. Standards for screening, location, setbacks, height, and painting will alleviate much of these concerns. Further, a permanent cargo container must acquire a building permit and be secured on a permanent foundation to prevent hazards.

Also, door modifications to allow exiting cargo containers from the inside must be verified in the building 45 Item 8.
permit. Fire safety and right-of-way access must be maintained as well. The storage of hazardous materials and combustible or flammable liquids is also addressed under the proposed ordinance.

While not all cargo container proposals may follow within the specific standards and parameters of the proposed ordinance, with cargo containers requiring a use permit, unique situations can be analyzed individually. Through this, staff can present their recommendations for best implementation of standards in the ordinance to minimize impacts.

At their April 10, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting, Commissioners reviewed the Title 17 text amendment related to Cargo Containers and approved Resolution No. 04-10-2023-A recommending to the Sonora City Council approval of an ordinance as described within the attached Resolution and included within the draft Ordinance No. 891.

CEQA DETERMINATION:

The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(3), Common Sense Exemption, of the CEQA Guidelines, which exempts an activity that has no potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.

FISCAL IMPACT
None

ATTACHMENTS

1. Public Hearing Notice

2. Planning Commission Resolution #04-10-2023

3. Draft Ordinance 887
46 Item 8.
47 Item 8.
48 Item 8.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Sonora City will conduct a public hearing at 5:00 PM, or shortly thereafter, on the 1st day of May, 2023, in the Sonora City Council Chambers, 94 North Washington Street, Sonora, CA for the purpose of considering the following:

1. Code Amendment. Title 17 Text Amendment – Cargo Containers Text amendment to Title 17, Zoning, of the Sonora Municipal Code, amending Section

17.04.010, Definitions, amending Section 17.32.065, Additional Activities Requiring Design Review, and adding Chapter 17.44, Cargo Containers.

This meeting is physically open to the public or members of the public may participate in the meeting via video conferencing. The posted meeting agenda will include the phone number and passcode needed to participate in the teleconference. Pursuant to State law, challenges in court to actions on the above proposal may be limited to issues raised during public hearings or meetings conducted on the matter, or in correspondence submitted prior to the start of the meeting.

At its meeting of April 10, 2023, the City of Sonora Planning Commission held a public hearing on said project. Subsequent to the hearing the Commission voted to recommend approval by the City Council. The above text amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15282(h) and Public Resource Code Section 21080.17 which exempts the adoption of an ordinance regarding second units.

The project staff report will be available for review at the City of Sonora Community Development Department, 94 North Washington Street, Sonora CA 95370, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00PM or on the City’s website at www.sonoraca.com.. Questions regarding the project may be directed to Community Development Director Rachelle Kellogg at (209) 532-3508 ext. #2.

Upon request, the agenda and the documents in the meeting agenda packet can be made available to persons with a disability. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City encourages those with disabilities to participate fully in the meeting process. Any person requiring special assistance to participate in the meeting should call 209-532-4541 at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the meeting.

Rachelle Kellogg
Community Development Director
-vPublication Date: April 21, 2023 The Union Democrat
Sonora, CA
49 Item 8.

Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44 Cargo Containers

ORDINANCE NO. 891

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SONORA
AMENDING SECTION 17.04.010, DEFINITIONS, AMENDING SECTION

17.32.065, ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES REQUIRING DESIGN REVIEW, AND ADDING CHAPTER 17.44, CARGO CONTAINERS, TO THE
SONORA MUNICIPAL CODE.

WHEREAS, due to rising popularity of cargo containers used on private property, the City of Sonora should strategically implement into the municipal code standards and requirements regarding such; and
WHEREAS, the existing cargo container regulations in Section 17.32.065, Additional Activities Requiring Design Review, are lacking, ambiguous, and difficult to implement; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of the proposed ordinance amendments, including the addition of Chapter 17.44, Cargo Containers, is to establish procedures for regulating cargo containers including design, location, safety, and construction standards; and WHEREAS, the proposed new Chapter 17.44 clearly outlines the standards for cargo containers, making it easier for both property owners in the City and staff to interpret and process applications for cargo containers; and WHEREAS, the proposed new Chapter 17.44 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. AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 17, ZONING.

1. Section 17.04.010, Definitions, of Title 17, Zoning, of the Sonora Municipal Code shall be amended to include the following text in alphabetical order:
“Cargo container” means a pre-manufactured metal shipping container or standardized, reusable vessel, designed without axle or wheels, that was originally designed and fabricated for, or used in, the packing, shipping, movement or transport of freight, articles, goods, or commodities from one location to another and that is delivered to a site as a fully assembled unit. The term “cargo container” shall not include a storage shed that is assembled at the site or a trailer with wheels used in the transport of freight. This term shall only apply to those containers that are accessory to the primary use of the property for the storage of directly related nonflammable, noncombustible, nonhazardous materials, and supplies. This definition means also terms 50 Item 8.

Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44 Cargo Containers

including “shipping container”, “c-train”, “conex box”, and similar verbiage for means of implementation.

2. Section 17.32.065(B), Additional Activities Requiring Design Review, of Title 17, Zoning, of the Sonora Municipal Code shall be amended as follows (a deletion of text is shown as a strike through):

B. The placement of nonresidential manufactured or modular buildings, storage or cargo containers.

3. Section 17.44, Cargo Containers, of Title 17, Zoning, of the Sonora Municipal Code shall be added to the Sonora Municipal Code as follows:

Chapter 17.44
Cargo Containers

17.44.010 Purpose
The purpose of this section is to allow cargo containers, as defined in this Title, to be placed on private property in a manner that is safe and secure, will not create adverse impacts to either the property on which they are located or to the immediate neighborhood, will achieve community architectural and design standards, and will not become a nuisance to the community.

17.44.020 Temporary Use
Temporary use of cargo containers shall be allowed as follows:

A. No cargo container permit shall be required when the cargo container is used during construction and a valid building permit is active for the property; provided, that use and placement is approved by the Building Official and Fire Department.

B. No cargo container permit shall be required to place a cargo container on private property for a period of ten (10) days or less; provided, that all applicable conditions of approval listed in section 17.44.080 of this chapter are met. For residential uses only, such temporary cargo containers are not required to be screened and may be placed in the front yard on a paved driveway so long as the cargo container does not encroach into the landscaped area, onto sidewalks, or into public rights-of-way, and there is sufficient room to open the garage door to allow access and egress in case of emergency.

C. A temporary use of land permit shall be obtained from the Community Development Department for a period of greater than ten (10) days but no more than three (3) months each year; provided, that all of the conditions of approval applicable in section 17.44.080 of this chapter are met, with the exception that cargo containers screened from public view from the public right-of-way or an adjacent property shall not be required to meet the design requirements of section 17.44.080(K) of this chapter. The complete application shall be provided with a fee in the amount of $100.
51 Item 8.

Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44 Cargo Containers

D. The cargo container must be removed immediately upon completion of the temporary term or upon expiration or finalization of the building permit.

17.44.030 Exceptions
City-owned property and City Uses. For city-owned property and city uses (regardless of the underlying zoning district), one or more cargo containers for storage use may be permitted with approval of the Community Development Director. The number of cargo containers allowed and the time period for which a cargo container may be used under this subsection shall be established by the Community Development Director.

17.44.040 Extended and Permanent Use of Cargo Containers A use permit shall be required prior to placing a cargo container on any private property for more than three (3) months. The approval shall be specific to a location and shall not be transferable to other locations or property. An application for a use permit shall be submitted for approval of a cargo container not less than sixty (60) days before the use is intended to begin. The application shall be on a form prescribed for that purpose by the Community Development Department and shall include the written consent of the owner of the property on which the use is to be located.

17.44.050 Public Right-of-Way Restriction
No cargo container may be placed in the public right-of-way unless an encroachment permit is approved and issued by the Community Development Department.

17.44.060 Cargo Container Use Permit Application Review and Approval All procedures for processing cargo container use permit applications shall be in accordance with those outlined in Sonora Municipal Code 17.62, Use Permit and Variance Procedure.

A. Once the use permit application has been accepted as complete, the Community Development Director or designee shall refer the use permit application to City Departments and any other agencies deemed appropriate by the Community Development Director for comment.

B. In considering application for a use permit pursuant to this section, the Planning Commission shall approve the permit only if the following findings are made and subject to the limitations and conditions of this section:

1. The proposal is consistent with the General Plan, the zoning ordinance, the design guidelines, and any other applicable plans or standards applicable to the property; and

2. The proposal meets all applicable design standards and provisions of this section; and

3. The proposal is in harmony with the existing or proposed development in the general area or neighborhood and will be compatible with adjacent structures and uses, including those on adjoining properties; and

4. That the site for the proposed use is adequate in size and shape to accommodate such uses, all yards, open spaces, walls, fences, parking, loading, landscaping, and other features required by the Sonora Municipal Code or the Planning 52 Item 8.

Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44 Cargo Containers

Commission to make sure such use is compatible with the land and uses in the vicinity; and

5. Any structural element contained within the proposal is of high-quality design consistent with the intent of the Sonora General Plan and the exterior design, appearance, materials, and colors will not cause the nature of the neighborhood to materially depreciate; and

6. The proposal will not otherwise constitute a nuisance or be detrimental to the public safety, health, and welfare of the neighborhood and community.

17.44.070 Fee
A fee shall be paid by the applicant according to the fee schedule set by the City Council for use permit applications.

17.44.080 Conditions of Approval
In authorizing any use permit for a cargo container, the Community Development Director shall include as conditions of approval the following minimum provisions:

A. Accessory use. A cargo container may be erected on a property when the use thereof is clearly incidental and secondary to the primary use of the property: For purposes of this section, a cargo container shall not be issued for a property where there is no approved primary use. The primary use of the property shall dictate which development standards are applicable to placement of the cargo container.

B. Height. Cargo container(s) shall not be stacked and shall not be greater than ten (10') feet in height including the foundation system, as measured from the property grade.

C. Setbacks. Cargo container(s) shall meet all applicable side and rear setback requirements. Cargo container(s) shall not be permitted in any front yard setback or areas adjacent to front yard setbacks visible to the public.

D. Location. The proposed location shall not interfere with other uses, pedestrian/vehicular visibility, required parking, landscaping, or circulation on the property, or create any other safety problem. The cargo container(s) shall not be placed in a “fire lane” or other fire access lanes. The cargo container(s) must be accessible by a paved drive aisle. Cargo containers are not allowed to be placed permanently within the historic area as defined in Sonora Municipal Code Section 17.32.030(B).

E. Contents. Cargo containers permitted pursuant to this Chapter are for permitted for storage purposes only. Human occupancy is prohibited. No hazardous materials and combustible or flammable liquids may be stored in the container.

F. Screening. Cargo container(s) shall be screened from view from the public right-of-way and from view of adjacent residential uses or districts using methods such as, but not limited to, line of sight behind buildings or walls with landscaping and construction of walls with vines.
53 Item 8.

Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44 Cargo Containers

G. Number and size. The number shall be limited to one (1) container per property, no greater than forty (40’) in length. Lot coverage cannot exceed the allowed amount for the specific zone district.

H. Signs. No advertising or directional signs shall be mounted, painted, or displayed on the container except that temporary containers may display the rental or leasing company name and/or logo permanently affixed or painted on the container.

I. Building permit. A building permit shall be required for all permanent cargo containers.

Doors shall be modified to allow persons to freely exit the cargo container.

J. Foundation system. All permanent cargo containers must be structurally secured to a foundation system approved by the Building Official.

K. Design. All applicable development standards and design guidelines for the zoning district shall apply. Permanent cargo containers must be painted to match the primary building to achieve architectural compatibility.

17.44.090 Amortization
All cargo containers existing in the city as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this section shall conform to the following:

A. Cargo containers for which prior approval was granted by the city or another agency with jurisdiction over the permit issuance shall be allowed to remain, subject to continued compliance with their original conditions of approval, if any.

B. Cargo containers that have been installed without prior approval of the city shall be removed within ninety (90) days of the effective date of this ordinance or shall be brought into conformance with the requirements of this chapter.

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 1 st of May, 2023,
and passed and adopted as Ordinance No. 891 at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 15th of May, 2023 by the following vote:

AYES:
54 Item 8.

Ordinance 891 – Chapter 17.44 Cargo Containers

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
____________________, 2023
55 Item 8.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Type 6 Wildland Urban Interface Fire Engine - Contract Award

RECOMMENDATION
Consideration of award to Burton’s Fire Inc. for the not-to-exceed amount of $315,000 to purchase a Type 6 Wildland Urban interface Fire Engine and authorize the City Administrator to sign the purchase contract and all related project documents.

DISCUSSION
On April 18, 2022 the City Council authorized staff to submit a grant agreement to the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to utilize a portion of the City’s existing CDBG Program Income to purchase a Type 6 4x4 Wildland Urban Interface Fire Engine. Following Council’s approval staff coordinated the application submittal and approval by the State. The Request for Proposal (RFP) for the project was issued on March 24, 2023 with a proposal submittal date of April 21, 2023. The RFP was widely circulated to suppliers and included the Fire Department’s required vehicle specifications as well as delivery deadlines.

The City received one proposal from Burton’s Fire Inc. for a Rosenbauer Type 6 4x4, Wildland Urban Interface fire Engine meeting the required specifications. Rosenbauer manufactures a complete line of fire apparatuses and is the second largest manufacture in the United States. Burton Fire Inc. is located in Modesto and along with sales has a full line service and repair facility. The proposal has been reviewed by staff and has been found to be in compliance with the RFP requirements and would like to move forward with the purchase of the engine. The engine will be delivered to the Fire Department within 90 days of contract award.

FISCAL IMPACT
The $315,000 in costs for this project are included in the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 City Council approved budget.

ATTACHMENTS
1) Schematic Drawing of Engine
56 Item 9.
57 Item 9.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Staff Direction – Use of Sidewalk (Encroachment Permits)

RECOMMENDATION
Provide staff direction regarding the use of City sidewalks under the new Encroachment Permit Ordinance.

DISCUSSION
City staff is in the process of drafting a new Encroachment Permit Ordinance which will include regulations related to the use of the City’s public places including sidewalks. This Ordinance will also include provisions for outdoor dining on public property. In order to finalize the draft ordinance for Council consideration, staff is requesting direction as to how the City Council would like the sidewalks to be utilized and regulated thus providing guidance in establishing regulations.

Especially in the downtown area, many businesses have utilized City sidewalks for display of merchandise for many years. Most have utilized the area directly in front of their building but some have placed items along the curb as well. Also businesses have placed planters on sidewalks and just like merchandise, some are small and near the entrance to their businesses but some are larger and have been placed closer to the curb of the sidewalk. Another issue on the back streets is that businesses are also using sidewalks to permanently house their waste receptacles. Most items can be easily removed from the sidewalk if needed.

Currently staff is processing an Encroachment Permit requesting the approval of two, very large, planter boxes in front of the Sonora Fly Co. The concern related to these particular boxes is the size and once filled with soil and plants movability will be very limited. In regards to this particular application staff did receive some complaints and also the attached letter from the Tuolumne Heritage Committee encouraging the City not to approve the placement of these planter boxes on the sidewalk.

Items placed on the sidewalk can impact the public access to the sidewalk either from exiting their car or just walking down the sidewalk in general. Accessibility also has to be considered with sidewalks are being utilized for merchandise, planters, receptacles, etc. Items should be able to be easily moved for maintenance of the sidewalk by the City. And finally, items placed on the sidewalk can benefit or detract from the ambience of the downtown. Attached are pictures of the current use of the sidewalks.

FISCAL IMPACT N/A

ATTACHMENTS
1) Photos and Tuolumne Heritage Committee Letter
58 Item 10.
59 Item 10.
60 Item 10.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Chris Gorsky, Administrative Services Director
SUBJECT: Administrative Services Department Report for March 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Administrative Services Department Report for March 2023

DISCUSSION
Monthly Report to the City Council
March 2023
Highlights of General Fund Revenues:

Current Period YTD FY22/23 Budget % of Budget
Property Tax $ - $ 884,343 $1,374,800 64.3%
Sales Tax $ 271,686 $ 2,548,261 $3,325,100 76.6%
Transient Occupancy Tax $ 64,141 $ 451,710 $ 550,000 82.1% Cannibis Public Benefit Fees $ 58,141 $ 453,786 $ 585,000 77.6% Building Permits $ 10,867 $ 113,144 $ 141,500 80.0%
Business Licenses $ 240 $ 123,481 $ 120,000 102.9%
Highlights of General Fund Expenditures:

Current Period YTD FY22/23 Budget % of Budget
Salaries and Benefits $ 549,046 $ 4,953,174 $7,337,800 67.5% Operating Expenditures $ 234,625 $ 1,622,113 $2,419,400 67.0% Transfers $ 9,213 $ 96,135 $ 300,000 32.0%

A/P YTD H/R YTD
Total Number of Checks/DD Processed: 230 1,256 89 1015
Business License Activity:

Current
Month Zone A
Current Month
Zone B
YTD
Zone A
YTD
Zone B
Licenses Issued 3 4 26 108
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.
61 Item 11.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Rachelle Kellogg, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Community Development Department Report for April 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Community Development Department Report for April 2023

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

CITYGATE – Over a several day period, Staff prepared all of the documentation requested by CityGate for both the Community Development Department and Public Works Department. Staff also attending meetings and reviewed documents provided.

WASHINGTON-STOCKTON TRANSIT PROJECT – Due to ongoing weather delays, construction on the project began at the end of March. The project will be conducted in 4 phases to better accommodate both pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The project contractor is Dirt Dynasty, Inc. and the Construction Engineer, who works directly with the Community Development Director and oversees daily operations, is UNICO Engineering. The current phase under constructions is along the north side of Stockton Street. Staff reviews all document submittals, labor standards, addresses issues as they arise, attends weekly meetings and on-site as needed, and submittals to Caltrans.

New ENCROACHMENT PERMIT ORDINANCE – Staff is in the process of preparing the draft Encroachment Permit Ordinance for consideration by the City Council. The ordinance will regulate the use of the City’s public spaces, right-of-ways, and sidewalks. It will also address the use of public spaces for outdoor dining. Following additional direction and comments from the Council, staff will finalize the ordinance and present it to the City Council for consideration.

CODE ENFORCEMENT – Due to the increase in Code Enforcement related issues throughout the City, a contracted Code Enforcement Officer has been working within the Community Development Department since September of 2022. The Officer is in the office one day per week and currently is handling 13 active cases. The nature of the cases vary but most are related to health and safety issues. By having a Code Enforcement Officer is place, oversight is now in place to address these issues and bring them to a close.

FARMERS MARKET – The first day of the Sonora Certified Farmers Market is Saturday, May 20th.

Staff has reviewed all applications received and is making final preparations for the start of the Market.

CDBG PROGRAM INCOME – Proposals were due to the City on Friday, April 21st for the Type 6 Wildland Urban Interface Fire Engine. The City received one proposal from Burton’s Fire Inc. which has been reviewed and found in compliance with the requirements and specifications by staff. The City Council will be considering awarding the contract at the May 15th meeting. 62 Item 12.

MONTH OF
April 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 ___1____

LUCCO JOETTE

LOUISE TR
237 W STOCKTON ST COMMERCIAL TO

NEW SFD
$1,500 $896.31
SUBTOTAL $896.31
CDBG REHABS TOTAL UNITS ____0___
SUBTOTAL ___0_____
COMMERCIAL TOTAL UNITS __0_____
SUBTOTAL ___0____
ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS TOTAL UNITS 13

COGNETTI JOSEPH III
& KELLIE
814 SHAWSFLAT
ROAD
SOLAR INSTALL, 7.9
KW, PV SYSTEM $169.75 $163.99

WILLIAMSON CORY &
JAIME L 346 LYONS ST

15.54 KW SOLAR ON

RES HOME ROOF
MOUNT $46,700.00 $578.94
3AARC ENTERPRISES
INC 64 SHANGRILA LN

REISSUED PERMIT TO
ADD AC UNIT $8,000.00 $418.55

M A C T HEALTH
BOARD
940 SYLVA LANE STE
F-2

INSTALL A NEW FIRE
ALARM SYSTEM $3,196.00 $406.88

ROBERSON DOUGLAS

TR ROBERSON

ROLANDA L TR
37 CORTE DEL
ENCINO

14.1 KW SOLAR RES
HOME ROOF MOUNT $40,000.00 $647.55

ROBERSON
ALICA & SHANE 124 ROBLE ROAD

15.5 KW SOLAR RES
HOME ROOF MOUNT $45,000.00 $992.48
SONORA 3 LLC 1197 SANGUINETTI
RD FIRE SPRINKLERS $2,200.00 $710.55
QCSI SIX LLC 855 MONO FIRE SPRINKLERS $5,500.00 $ 820.11

MC BRIDE PATRICK &

MEREDITH
6 N POPLAR

6.37 KW SOLAR RES

ROOF MOUNT

ELECTRICAL
UPGRADE $13,500.00 $570.91

SMITTLE CODY &
MONICA 779 E OAKSIDE

5.95 KW RES SOLAR
ROOF MOUNT $40,936.00 $520.18

OCONNELL DANIEL L

ETAL PINO MARY R
ETAL 307 SUMMIT AVE

RPPF MOUNT SOLAR
8KW 20 PV MODULES $26,560.00 $444.55
63 Item 12.

JORN JANICE M TR 506 SNELL ST
ADDING 5.6 KW TO
EXISTING 4.65 $15,000.00 $253.67
SONORA 3 LLC 1197 SANGUINETTI
RD

NEW SIGN FOR A
NEW BUSINESS $8,419.31 $287.54
DEMOLITIONS TOTAL UNITS ___2____

NAME LOCATION TYPE VALUATION FEE

SEYMOUR CHRISTINE
16 S POPLAR ST
DEMO

MULTIFAMILY

RESIDENCE
$
6,400.00 $ 205.35

RI TIMBERHILLS LLC
1045 MONO WAY

DEMO OF

STEWART

PHARMACY
$
30,000.00 $ 753.88
SUBTOTAL _$953.23

MISCELLANEOUS REPAIRS
NUMBER OF PERMITS VALUATION $ FEE
8 $1,046,180.00 $7,808.58
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERMITS ISSUED 24
TOTAL VALUATION $1,339,261.06
SUB TOTAL OF PERMIT FEES COLLECTED $16,480.02
TOTAL FIRE DEPARTMENT FEES COLLECTED $1,320.00
TOTAL TRAFFIC FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION FEES COLLECTED 0
TOTAL FEES COLLECTED $16,480.02

FISCAL YEAR TO DATE
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERMITS ISSUED 69
TOTAL VALUATION $ 3,100,185.55
TOTAL FIRE DEPARTMENT FEES COLLECTED $ 1,500.00

TOTAL PUBLIC SAFETY FEES COLLECTED

TOTAL PARKS & RECREATION FEES COLLECTED
TOTAL TRAFFIC MITIGATION FEES COLLECTED $ -
TOTAL PERMIT FEES COLLECTED $ 38,206.50
64 Item 12.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Aimee New, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Fire Department Monthly Report - April 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive Fire Department Report – April 2023

DISCUSSION
Fire Department Monthly Report – April 2023

FISCAL IMPACT
N/A

1. City of Sonora Fire Department responded to 120 calls for service in April 2023.

2. Sonora City units responded to emergency calls as follows:
113 - Cooking fire, confined to container 1
311 - Medical assist, assist EMS crew 16
321 - EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury 65 322 - Motor vehicle accident with injuries 1
411 - Gasoline or other flammable liquid spill 1
412 - Gas leak (natural gas or LPG) 1
441 - Heat from short circuit (wiring), defective/worn 1 510 - Person in distress, other 6
511 - Lock-out 1
551 - Assist police or other governmental agency 2
553 - Public service 4
554 - Assist invalid 2
611 - Dispatched & cancelled en route 6
622 - No incident found on arrival at dispatch address 3 631 - Authorized controlled burning 1
651 - Smoke scare, odor of smoke 1
700 - False alarm or false call, other 2
715 - Local alarm system, malicious false alarm 1
730 - System malfunction, other 3
65 Item 13.
743 - Smoke detector activation, no fire - unintentional 2 Total Incidents 120

3. Monthly dollar loss in the City, resulting from fire: 0

4. The average response time during the month: 4.7

5. Automatic or mutual aid given 31
66 Item 13.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 2023
TO: City Council Members
FROM: Mike Lagomarsino, Public Works Supervisor
SUBJECT: Public Works Department Report for April 2023

RECOMMENDATION
Receive the Public Works Department Report for April 2023

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

Events
 Deployed changeable message boards for advance warning of pedestrians for the Home and Garden show at the Fairgrounds.
 Placed banners above Washington Street for upcoming events.

Streets
 Made repairs to sink hole on Stewart Street.
 Excavated and backfilled large sinkhole on Ponderosa Drive.  Made repairs to eroded section of road on Bradford Street.  Made repairs to damaged stop sign on Gold St @ Washington St.  Spent several days potholing City Streets.
 Responded to big rig accident on Mono Way which required removal of large boulders from roadway.
 Loaded and hauled two truckloads of brush in City right of way by the Firewise Committee on Arbona circle.
 Started annual early morning roadside weed spraying.
 Installed 25 Chamber of Commerce banners on City streetlight poles.

Facilities
 Ran cat 6 cable in attic for internet connection at Sonora Police Department and mounted router.
 Made repairs to urinal at Opera Hall.
 Cleaned security camera lenses at Sonora Police Department.  Installed window blinds in office space at Farmers Market facility.  Ran cable for antenna from roof to office for scanner at Public Works.  Serviced all Swamp coolers on City facilities.

Parks/Landscapes/Parking Lots
67 Item 14.
 Charged irrigation and checked all sprinklers at Rotary Park.  Camera and cleared toilet drain in restroom at Rotary Park.  Graffiti removal in Rotary Park ball field dugouts.
 Planted trees and shrubs in planters at the Terzich Parking Garage.  Flushed plugged culverts on Dragoon Trail following flooding event.  Inspected, repaired, and charged irrigations in all City Landscapes.  Pressure wash stairs in the Terzich Parking Lot.
 Pruned and weed wacked the Columbia Way landscape island.

Storm Drains
 Fabricated new storm drain grate for inlet on Green Street.

Cemeteries
 Charged irrigation system and checked all valves and sprinklers for proper function for irrigating season.
 Patched roads at Mt Shadow following storm damage.
 Performed annual weed spraying at Mountain Shadow and Old City Cemetery.  Daily-Check messages at Mountain Shadow and returned calls as needed.  Daily-Cleaned irrigation filters during irrigation season.  Marked out plots as requested by Funeral Home.
 Set headstones as requested by Funeral Home.
 Mowed and edged lawns weekly.
 Weed wacked around headstones as needed.

Miscellaneous
Burned accumulated brush pile on Southgate drive. Daily-unlock, and service all public restrooms. Garbage collection twice a week in all City parking lots, landscapes, and parks.

Monthly fleet vehicle inspections. Twice weekly- Run street sweeper early morning on rotating street schedule throughout the City.

FISCAL IMPACT
None
68 Item 14.

CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 15, 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 April 2023.

DISCUSSION
The attached summarizes activities for April 2023.

Apr 2023 Mar 2023 April 2022
Total Incidents 1,292 1,216 1,279
Calls for Service 786 781 624
Officer Initiated 506 435 658
Total Arrests 35 46 65
Felony Arrests 4 8 15
Misd. Arrests 31 38 50
Total Reports 103 118 137
Parking Citations 17 20 31
Moving Citations 17 9 23
Domestic Violence 1 3 3
Larceny Invest. 8 9 12
Total Collisions 28 17 28
Collision Invest. 7 7 15
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Mar 2023 Mar 2023 April 2022
Homeless Activity 99 85 73
Animal Calls 23 19 29
Public Intox. / UID 4 12 8
DUI Arrests 5 4 4
Total Phone Calls /
911 Calls
2,058/363 2,262/384 2,054/232
Average Per Day 30 73 68
Vehicle Releases 5 5 11
*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
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AREA 1
Violent Crimes:
-1 Felony Assault with a Deadly Weapon (not a Firearm)
-2 Misdemeanor Child Abuse
Burglaries / Other Larceny:
-4 Business Burglaries (Shoplifting)
-1 Business Burglary
AREA 2
Violent Crimes:
-1 Felony Assault with a Deadly Weapon (not a Firearm)
-1 Misdemeanor Domestic Violence
Burglaries / Other Larceny:
-2 Business Burglaries (Shoplifting)
-1 Business Burglary (Outbuilding)
04/01/2023 - 04/30/2023
71 Item 15.

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
72 Item 15.

Area 2 Monthly Report
April 2023
Neighborhood Watch:

MYERS HILL:
 No updated activity.

NORTH STEWART:
 No updated activity.

HIGHLAND VIEW:
 No updated activity
Case(s) For discussion:
23-433—On April 21, 2023, at approximately 7:00 pm, Sonora PD officers were dispatched to an elder abuse call. The 82-year-old victim reported an unknown female knocked on the front door of his residence and asked him for money. The victim reached for his wallet and removed a small amount of cash to give to the female. The female took the money, grabbed the victim’s wallet, and ran off in an unknown direction. The suspect has not been identified; however, this is an ongoing investigation.
23-454—On April 27, 2023, at approximately 7:00 pm, while on routine patrol at Rotary Park, a Sonora PD officer identified a vehicle belonging to an individual with an active Parolee at Large (PAL) warrant. The officer contacted the individual associated with the warrant and took him into custody.

Field Training Program:
 One part-time Community Service Officer in training.

Investigations:
23-381—Sonora PD detective closed unlawful sex with a minor case. The victim stated she met the suspect while visiting Sonora with her family. At the time of the crime, the victim said she was 16, and the suspect was 20. The suspect was identified, and a criminal complaint was sent to the DA’s office.

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

Fleet:
 One new patrol vehicle was assigned to an officer.
 One patrol vehicle was removed from service and assigned to the vehicle pool.

Reserves/Volunteers:
 No updated activity
Respectfully Submitted,
Sgt. Eric Nygard
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