St. Helena City Council
June 23, 2023

topic area
5-50 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
5 circulation
6 IMPROVEMENTS AND PHASING
CR6.C Develop a plan for all non-motorized vehicles, including bicycles, pedestrians, and scooters. To create a meaningful alternative to automobile usage for short trips, multi-use paths should connect home-to-work or home-tolocal shopping locations. Link neighborhoods and commercial areas on a path system and encourage active modes of transportation.

Agenda Item #5.1.

historic resources
chapter six
Agenda Item #5.1.

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6 historic resources

6.1 Purpose of the Element
The Historic Resources Element is not a State-mandated element; however, it presents a framework for governing future decisions about rehabilitating, retrofitting and adaptively reusing St. Helena’s historic buildings. The Historic Resources Element aims to effectively manage the community’s historic assets including, but not limited to, buildings, bridges, and other structures in order to maintain St. Helena’s unique sense of place and ensure that these assets can be enjoyed by current and future residents and visitors.

The Historic Resources Element includes the following sections. • 6.2 Historic Resources in St. Helena. Identifies key issues related to the preservation of historic resources in St. Helena (p. 6-3). • 6.3 Key Findings. Identifies key findings based on an existing conditions analysis (p. 6-10).
• 6.4 Goals. Defines overarching goals to guide policies and implementing actions (p. 6-12).
• 6.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to preserve the City’s cultural and historic resources (p. 6-14).

St. Helena is a community rich
in historic resources including the Culinary Institue of America’s Greystone Campus.
1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 6-3
6 historic resources

6.2 Historic Resources in St. Helena
Napa Valley has a long history of settlement dating back to around 2000 B.C., when Native Americans first inhabited the Napa Valley. Native Americans inhabited the area for thousands of years, and at the time of first contact with European settlers of the area, the Wappo had established a village near present day St. Helena called Annakatanoma. Until the 19th century, approximately 7,000 Wappo resided in the Napa Valley and surrounding hills, including Mount St. Helena.

Since its early days in the mid-19th century, St. Helena has been an agricultural and commercial center serving the surrounding towns and farming areas of the upper Napa Valley. The community initially served as a transfer point for agricultural goods and natural resources destined for markets in Napa and San Francisco. The City’s more recent cultural roots stem from its role as an immigration destination for European settlers; however, the histories of both Native American and European peoples are important to the identity of St. Helena.

The influences of these early residents are exemplified in the City’s historic structures, in particular stone and brick masonry structures, as well as Europeanstyled, timber-constructed barns, bridges, wineries, and social halls located throughout the city. Additionally, St. Helena has typically been a destination for immigrants seeking labor opportunities in mining and the surrounding agricultural fields. In early years, Chinese laborers ventured to St. Helena from San Francisco and the mining areas of the Sierra foothills. More recently, workers from Mexico and Central America have settled in the area, bringing with them vibrant cultural traditions reflected in the holiday celebrations, arts, and culinary experiences of the area. Protecting and preserving the city’s historic and cultural resources is essential to ensuring that St. Helena maintains its unique character while adapting to social and political changes and potential growth demands in the coming decades.

St. Helena was first settled
by members by the Native
American Yukian group
who occupied much of
Northern California,
including present day
Napa County. When
Spanish soldiers arrived
in the area, they called the
Yukians guapo, meaning
courageous, a term that
later became “Wappo.”
Agenda Item #5.1.

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6 historic resources

BENEFITS OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION
In 1998, downtown St. Helena was designated as a Nationally Registered Historic District, and the city boasts a number of landmark buildings that have been listed on the National and California State Historic Registers. Creative, forward-thinking planning can help the City leverage these historic resources to maximize their impact on local economic growth and maintain the high quality of life and character for which the city is known. Effective historic preservation policies can have many positive impacts, including cultural, social, and economic benefits. In addition, further integrating historic preservation into land use and urban design plans can contribute greatly to the city’s long-term vitality.

In general, the social benefits attributable to historic preservation are cultural, educational, or environmental in nature. Collectively they contribute to the city’s overall livability and quality of life. Cultural benefits include the celebration of diverse communities and the fostering of a sense of civic belonging and pride.

For example, St. Helena is home to several historic wineries that contribute to the city’s agriculture-based identity. Historic wineries include Beringer, Charles Krug, and Spottswoode. Additionally, educational benefits can take many forms, and often lay the foundation for collaboration between local educational, non-profit, and civic institutions. These collaborations may result in bringing local history to life for residents and visitors, enriching the overall experience of the city. Lastly, preserving and rehabilitating historic structures and surroundings can have positive environmental benefits on St. Helena by capitalizing on the investment of time, energy, and resources that have already gone into the construction and maintenance of the buildings. Rehabilitating historic buildings reuses existing materials and can help divert waste construction resources from entering local landfills. Establishing and implementing effective historic preservation policies will help ensure that St. Helena maximizes the breadth and impact of positive cultural, education, and environmental benefits into the future.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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6 historic resources
Economically, historic preservation provides a wide array of direct and indirect benefits to cities and can be a key driver of local economic development strategies. Direct benefits are mostly attributable to State and/or federally-registered buildings that qualify for tax credits and deductions to subsidize rehabilitation and construction costs. One indirect economic benefit, particularly applicable to St. Helena, includes creating a strong sense of place that is attractive to tourists seeking cultural destinations and experiences, and that can draw significant revenue from outside sources to support and circulate locally.

St. Helena’s unique historic resources and Napa Valley location provide it with a strong position to capitalize on the economic benefits of well-planned and wellimplemented historic preservation measures.

The community of St Helena
supports the preservation and
restoration of historic resources such as the Logan House.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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ST. HELENA’S INVENTORY OF HISTORIC RESOURCES
Numerous historical buildings and structures have been recorded within city limits as listed in Appendix A and shown in Figures 6.1 and 6.2. Historic resources are generally concentrated in the central part of the city, although there are historic resources on winery properties and adjacent to the Napa River. The most common historical property types consist of residences and commercial buildings, although other historic resources in St. Helena include barns, warehouses, wineries, churches, schools, bridges, a culvert, street lights, a motel, tankhouses, stonework, roads, a railroad depot, and government buildings. The majority of these properties were recorded as part of the 1977-1978 Napa County Historic Resources Inventory conducted by Napa Landmarks, Inc. and an historical architectural survey conducted by Page & Turnbull, Inc. in 2006.

TABLE 6.1. Historic Resources
Source / Location Number of Resources1
1978 Survey
Charter Oak District 49
Main Street District 57
Spring Street District 90
2006 Survey 30
National Register of Historic Places 15
National Register of Historic District
St. Helena Historic
Commercial District
(District includes 36 contributing and 13 non-contributing buildings)

1. Overlap exists among Historic Resource lists.

Source: City of St. Helena, Historic Resources Inventory (1978, 2006) Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 6-7
6 historic resources
There are several wellpreserved buildings along
Main Street, including the
Oddfellows building.

Eleven historical resources within the City limit are listed in the National Register of Historic Places and California Register of Historical Resources. Two of these historical resources—the Beringer Winery Historic District and the Main Street Commercial Historic District—include multiple buildings and structures, which are indicated by a National Register Status Code of “1D” in Table A-1 of Appendix A. The Main Street Commercial Historic District includes the 34 buildings considered to be contributors to the district’s historic character or significance, along with 13 non-contributor buildings. Non-contributors are those buildings that, due to date of construction, alterations, or other factors, do not contribute to the historic character of the district. Numerous other historical buildings in St. Helena appear eligible for listing in the National and California registers, as indicated by a National Register Status Code “3S,” which would qualify such properties as historical resources for purposes of CEQA.

Agenda Item #5.1.

6 historic resources
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Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Kraft Wine
Cellar
Ranger's
Residence
Charles Krug Winery
Pope Street Bridge
Crane-Ramos
Sherry Factory
Rhine
House
Edge Hill Distillery & Winery
Greystone Cellars/
Christian Brothers
Charles Krug Winery
(Carriage House)
Beringer
Brothers/
Los Hermanos
Winery
St. Helena
High School
St. Helena Southern
Pacific Railroad
Lewelling
Deermount
Ranch
Data Source: California Historical Resources Information System, Northwest Information Center, 2018; City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County,2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 6.1
Historic Resources
Parks and Open Space
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
National Historic District
St. Helena Historic Commercial
District
Beringer Winery Historic
Lewelling "Deermount" Ranch
Historic District
!( Locally-Designated Resources
^_ National Register
^_ California Register
kj State Landmark
^_ Eligible for National Register or
California Register
Agenda Item #5.1.

6 historic resources
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St. Helena
Catholic Church
Money Way Vista
Main St
Oak Ave
Adams St
Hunt Ave
Money Way
Railroad Ave
Spring St
Tainter St
Church St
Edwards St
Lyman
Park
1104 Adams St
1226 Spring St
1225 Adams St
1379 Main St
1375 Main St
1367
Main St 1355 Main St
Owen Wade
Building
1339
Main St
1327
Main St
1313 Main St
1310 Oak Ave 1269
Main St
1350 Main St
1346 Main St
1332 Main St
1321 Railraod Ave
1320
Main St
1316
Main St
1310 Main St
1312 Main St
1235
Main St
1231
Main St
1225 Main St
1219 Main St
1205 Main St
Wall House
Hunt Building
D.O. Hunt House
A. Goodman
Building
St Helena
Public Library
St. Helena
Elementary School
William Tell Saloon
and Hotel
Windsor
Hotel
Bank of
St Helena
Noble
Building
Special Internal Revenue
Bonded Warehouse
Taylor Duckworth and
Company Foundry Building
KettleWell
Building
St. Helena
Star
Building
Roma Hotel/
Miramonte Hotel
1244 Spring St
1326 Oak Ave
Goodman's
1243 Main St
1351
Main St
1371
Main St
St. Helena
Ioof Hall
Grace
Episcopal
Church
1227 Edwards St
1000 Hunt Ave
0 62.5 125 250
Feet
Data Source: California Historical Resources Information System, Northwest Information Center, 2018; City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County,2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 ^_ National Register
^_ California Register
^_ Eligible for National Register or
California Register
!( Contributor to Historic District
!( Locally-Designated Resources
St. Helena Historic Commercial District
Parks and Open Space
Urban Limit Line
Study
City of St. Helena

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Historic Resources Downtown St. Helena
Figure 6.2
Agenda Item #5.1.

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6 historic resources

6.3 Key Findings
There are several opportunities related to historic resources in St. Helena. The following key findings are based upon comprehensive existing conditions analysis and community input:
• St. Helena has a wealth of historic resources that contribute to and define its unique sense of place. Implementing measures to preserve and protect these resources can benefit the community for generations to come. • St. Helena boasts a number of well-preserved buildings along Main Street that help communicate the City’s character to those entering or passing through town, particularly from the north. Key landmark buildings include the Starr, Galleron, Ritchie, Oddfellows, and Pritchard buildings. Preserving these structures and ensuring that new development complements their landmark status can help St. Helena maintain its unique character • The City has adopted a Historic Preservation Overlay District that establishes zoning regulations for historic resources located within the District.

Currently, the Historic Preservation Overlay District applies to very few historic properties. • Although there are more than 200 historically significant resources in the City, most are not included in the Historic Preservation Overlay District.

Those properties not recognized may be vulnerable to alterations and demolition.
• St. Helena does not currently have a historic preservation ordinance.

However, the design review process that is set up for all new construction, additions and alterations of both residential and non-residential buildings in St. Helena has special findings for consideration of historic buildings. This allows the City to require CEQA analysis of impacts on historic buildings pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15300.2, which states that a categorical exemption shall not be used for a project which may cause a substantial Agenda Item #5.1.

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6 historic resources
There are more than 200 historically significant resources in St. Helena.
adverse change in the significance of a historical resource. Special findings must be made to address the demolition of historic structures (section

17.164.050). These findings are:
o That the building poses a threat to health, safety and general welfare if it is not demolished;
o That restoration of the building is not feasible or practicable using current building codes, including but not limited to the Historic Building Code provisions of the Uniform Building Code of the State of California; and o That no public or other funding is available for financing renovation or purchase of the building. • In 1999, the City implemented one of the first mandatory seismic retrofit ordinances of unreinforced masonry buildings (URM) within the state (Municipal Code section 15.40). Thirty-two URMs were identified. Seismic retrofit of all 32 buildings has either been completed or is in the construction phase of completion.
• The City of St. Helena Building Department utilizes the State’s historic building code to encourage and assist in the preservation and renovation of historic structures. • St. Helena’s neighborhoods have unique characteristics that reflect the evolution of the City over time. Creating neighborhood-specific historic preservation design guidelines can ensure that structural alterations to existing homes reflect the neighborhood’s past, while accommodating modern residential needs.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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6.4 Goals
The goals of the Historic Resources Element are:

Maintain St. Helena’s Sense of Place and Visual Character.

St. Helena is dedicated to ensuring that new development complements existing buildings and supports the City’s unique historic, agricultural character and setting.

Preserve and Protect St. Helena’s Historic Resources.

St. Helena is committed to preserving and protecting its historic resources and ensuring that they remain for future generations.

Celebrate St. Helena’s Distinct History and Heritage.

St. Helena is dedicated to celebrating its rich historic buildings and ensuring that they can be enjoyed by residents and visitors.

Preserving St. Helena’s historic resources will help maintain the City’s unique sense of place.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 6-13
6 historic resources
Long Meadow Ranch and the Napa Valley Vintners
Building are examples of adaptive reuse in St. Helena.

Adaptive reuse refers to the process of adapting
older structures for use in different ways than originally intended. In this way, the existing architectural details and cultural and historic significance of older buildings can be maintained, while the use and function of the building changes to meet current and future needs. Examples of adaptive reuse include
rehabilitating unused schools for use as offices or
research facilities, and retrofitting former industrial buildings into residential units. Adaptive reuse can
bolster planning efforts to reduce the occurrence of
sprawl and preserve agricultural lands by focusing
new development in already-developed areas of the
City.

The Long Meadow Ranch Winery and Farmstead,
located at the intersection of Charter Oak and Main
streets, is an example of adaptive reuse in St. Helena.

Reuse of the property, including the 130-year old
gothic revival, two-story home, is currently underway.

The project includes a nursery, restaurant, open air
produce market and wine tasting room. In addition,
the Napa Valley Vintners Association office building is another example of adaptive reuse
Adaptive Reuse

CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS
Agenda Item #5.1.

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6.5 Policies and Implementing Actions
A range of policies and implementing actions are outlined below and organized into the following topic areas:

1. Protected Historic Resources; and

2. Historic Resources Awareness.

The following policies and actions mandate, encourage, or allow certain initiatives to be pursued throughout the duration of the General Plan. Together, they serve as strategic directions for City staff and partners, highlighting where time and resources should be focused.

Vintage Hall was St. Helena’s
first high school, dedicated on
June 6, 1912. It was renovated
in 2003.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 PROTECTED HISTORIC RESOURCES
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 6-15
6 historic resources
St. Helena’s historic and cultural
resources contribute to its special
character and quality of life.

Policies
HR1.1 Preserve the City’s historic and cultural resources, so that they may contribute to the special character and quality of the City and support its economic base.

HR1.2 Protect the historic resources that exist in the downtown commercial area.

HR1.3 Encourage the adaptive reuse, rehabilitation, and retrofit of historic buildings in which the original use is no longer feasible.

HR1.4 Promote the application of sustainable building practices to the preservation of historic resources.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 PROTECTED HISTORIC RESOURCES
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6 historic resources
HR1.5 For development and redevelopment proposals in archaeologically and paleontologically sensitive areas of St. Helena or where tribal cultural resources are known to exist, require an assessment of the potential presence of archaeological, paleontological and tribal cultural resources, including a site survey and a records search of the California Historical Resources Information System at the Northwest Information Center (NWIC). As warranted by the results of the assessment, require additional studies to identify and address project-specific impacts on archaeological and paleontological resources. The City shall incorporate the study recommendations as project conditions of approval to ensure that impacts on archaeological and/or paleontological resources are mitigated to the extent possible. Studies shall be prepared according to National Register Bulletin 24: Guidelines for Local Surveys: A Basis for Preservation Planning and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

HR1.6 For development or redevelopment on a site that contains any structures over 45 years old, require a records search of the California Historical Resources Information System at the Northwest Information Center (NWIC) to determine the presence of historic resources. As warranted by the results of the records search, the City shall require evaluation of structures over 45 years old to determine their historical significance. Studies shall be prepared according to National Register Bulletin 24: Guidelines for Local Surveys: A Basis for Preservation Planning and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 PROTECTED HISTORIC RESOURCES
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 6-17
6 historic resources
Implementing Actions
HR1.A Adopt a historic preservation ordinance to implement the policies recommended in the Historic Resources Element.

HR1.B Adopt design review guidelines and/or form-based codes, standards and criteria for the alteration or rehabilitation of historic properties. The adoption of design review guidelines and/or form-based codes can assist City staff, the Planning Commission, and City Council when reviewing permit requests and provide long-term regulatory consistency.

HR1.C Adopt design review guidelines and/or form-based codes that require new development in or adjacent to historic areas or buildings to be compatible in design and character with existing historic buildings.

HR1.D Develop an incentive program to encourage property owners to participate in historic preservation efforts. Potential program measures can include alternate building codes for historic structures and financial incentives, where necessary.

HR1.E Consolidate and update the existing inventories of historic buildings and houses and develop criteria to add to the list.

HR1.F Develop sustainable development and green building guidelines for rehabilitation, retrofitting, and adaptive reuse of historic resources. Identify incentives to encourage property owners to utilize these guidelines. (Also see the Community Design Element, Topic Area 1)
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 PROTECTED HISTORIC RESOURCES
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6 historic resources
HR1.G Continue to develop and implement downtown design guidelines and/ or standards to protect historic buildings and guide façade changes.

HR1.H Regularly update the Historic Resources Inventory to ensure that is includes a current list of historic structures in the city.

HR1.I Incorporate the preservation of historic resources into a citywide urban design plan.

HR1.J The City shall retain a qualified architectural historian, preservation architect, or preservation planner to assist with development of any neighborhood or citywide design standards, guidelines, or form-based codes that will be implemented in or adjacent to historic areas, e.g., the Downtown Commercial District, or adjacent to historic buildings.

HR1.K Require that rehabilitation or restoration of historical resources be done according to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for the Preservation, Rehabilitation, Restoration, Restoration, and Reconstruction of Historic Buildings.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
# TOPIC NAME
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 6-19
topic area
2 HISTORIC RESOURCES AWARENESS
6 historic resources
Policies
HR2.1 Strengthen public awareness of and support for the preservation and protection of the City’s historic resources, while improving community access to information about local Native American history.

HR2.2 In cooperation with Native American Research and Historical Preservation Society, improve community access to information about Native American life.

Implementing Actions
HR2.A Expand community awareness about the value of historic preservation in order to build support among property owners and developers for the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic and cultural resources.

HR2.B In cooperation with the St. Helena Historical Society, develop a public education and awareness program to keep the community abreast of historic resource issues through a variety of programs, such as self-guided walking tours, home and garden tours, speakers’ series, and other public events.

Through this program the Historical Society could work with owners of historic structures to install plaques outside structures to increase public awareness and community pride.

HR2.C Improve community access to information about available historic preservation funding sources and related resources. Provide information about sensitive ways to incorporate sustainable materials and design practices into historic rehabilitation projects.

HR2.D Conduct a survey of historic resources to determine different architectural types in the City and develop design guidelines specific to style and period.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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Agenda Item #5.1.

community design
chapter seven
Agenda Item #5.1.

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7 community design

7.1 Purpose of the Element
The Community Design Element presents a framework of policies and implementing actions that integrates directly with other General Plan elements in determining the quality and character of St. Helena’s built environment. In particular, this Element relates to the Land Use and Growth Management Element by setting forth a vision for the form, character, and appearance of the community. It also correlates directly with the implementation of policies and actions included in the Circulation, Open Space and Conservation, Parks and Recreation, and Historic Resources elements. By respecting established neighborhoods and historic assets, this Element provides guidance to preserve St.

Helena’s distinct history and rural small-town character, while promoting new approaches to enhance future public and private development.

The Community Design Element includes the following sections. • 7.2 Rural Community Character in St. Helena. Identifies rural community character, architectural details and neighborhoods (p. 7-3). • 7.3 Key Findings. Identifies key findings based on an existing conditions analysis and extensive community outreach (p. 7-9).
• 7.4 Goals Defines overarching goals to guide policies and implementing actions (p. 7-13).

The Community Design
Element contains policies and
actions that guide the quality
and character of St. Helena’s
built environment.
1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 7-3
7 community design
• 7.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to ensure high-quality, sustainable and community-oriented design and construction and protect community character (p. 7-15).

7.2 Rural Community Character in St. Helena
Community character can be defined in a number of ways but is often reflected in the physical form of the built environment and its relationship to the natural environment. A community’s street pattern; the relationship of its buildings to streets; the location and design of its public spaces; and the architectural styles and landscape elements that characterize buildings, residences and open spaces are often collectively referred to as “community design.” Community design is a visual representation of the character of a place, which evolves over time based on the lifestyle preferences of its residents and the public and private decisions that shape the human landscape. Community design in St. Helena clearly embodies and celebrates the rural character of the city. It can be best understood by exploring its architectural typologies and details, the identity and character of its many neighborhoods, and its rich agricultural heritage.

AGRICULTURE, OPEN SPACE, PARKS, AND RECREATION
The rural feel and abundant open spaces in and around St. Helena are very important design elements that contribute to the overall character of the community. Parks, greenways, vineyards, and other spaces surround the city and are interspersed throughout its neighborhoods, providing space for recreation and passive activities, natural areas, plazas, flood conveyance, and agriculture. This Downtown’s historic character
provides a sense of place for
the City.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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network of open space provides a distinct connection to the City’s agricultural heritage.

Agriculture and viticulture have influenced the nature of the surrounding landscape perhaps more than any other land use or economic activity. As a result, existing expanses of vineyards and agricultural lands — including “fingers” of green that reach into the urban environment — play a central role in maintaining the rural experience and a distinctly historic sense of place for City residents and visitors.

The City’s Urban Limit Line is an instrumental policy tool for maintaining clear definition of the rural/urban edge and preserving the City’s adjacent open spaces. Green spaces and vineyards within the Urban Limit Line also contribute to the rural environment, ensuring St. Helena’s agrarian heritage remains elemental to the character of the City, both inside and surrounding the city. Parks and other open spaces also contribute to this effect.

GATEWAYS, EDGES, AND VIEWS
Gateways, edges, and views throughout St. Helena create a sense of the city’s rural character. Public views of the surrounding hillsides, Mount St. Helena, Agricultural uses in and
around the City contribute to
its character.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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St. Helena’s residential neighborhoods are often characterized by multiple architectural typologies along a single street.
vineyards, and older agricultural buildings provide valuable visual connections that strengthen the community’s identity. Views are especially significant where agriculture is located along street edges.

Similarly, entries into the city provide important gateways that help establish St. Helena’s sense of place. These gateways not only announce entry into the city, but also lend significance to the area. The northern gateway to the city from State Route 29, referred to as the “Tunnel of Elms,” is attractive, with large, landmark trees lining the road. Historic winery structures and residences add character to this important city gateway. The southern entry is less pronounced, with service commercial uses, parking, and limited landscaping adjacent to the highway.

ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DESIGN
The concentration of well-preserved buildings in downtown St. Helena is important in establishing the City’s historic character. Many of the historic masonry and wooden structures built from stone, brick, and timber and located along Main Street between Spring and Adams streets, were constructed during the city’s second major period of growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

European settlement of the Napa Valley during this period was fueled by the arrival of Italian and Swiss immigrants, many of whom were trained stonemasons and quarrymen. These early settlers skillfully carved Napa County’s colorful volcanic rocks and used local timber to build barns, houses, fences and bridges.

The architectural details of these structures, such as brick dentils, medallion insets, and window fenestration, lend character to the community just as do the materials from which they were constructed.

The character of St. Helena’s residential neighborhoods is defined by a range of Pre-Prohibition-era housing styles. Multiple architectural typologies can be found along a single street, which contributes to neighborhood character.

Common residential architectural typologies include American Queen Anne, American Craftsman, California Bungalow, and vernacular farm houses. Later Agenda Item #5.1.

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styles found in St. Helena include ranch-style homes and a variety of neo-eclectic architectural styles based on a combination of traditional shapes and details from different periods. Overlapping themes among both historic and modern homes include large, open-air porches supported by various interpretations of the basic column, and deeply overhanging eaves supported by exposed rafters or ornamental brackets.

Similar to many western cities, St. Helena’s historic street pattern and layout is characterized by a traditional grid pattern, with variances that result from the intersection of railroad lines, creeks and regional roadways. As St. Helena grew during the latter part of the 20th Century, a modified street pattern developed with wide curvilinear streets, cul-de-sacs, and fewer bicycle and pedestrian connections. Future development presents an opportunity to enhance street, bicycle, and pedestrian connectivity, in part by using the city’s historic grid street pattern.

RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
The community is composed of twenty-four residential neighborhoods surrounding St. Helena’s historic downtown, as mapped by the General Plan Update Steering Committee (GPUSC) and shown on Figure 7.1. Each of these neighborhoods are distinct in identity, characterized by design elements such as their street patterns, architectural typologies, landscaping, and other attributes that support St. Helena’s sense of place.

St. Helena’s residential neighborhoods include single family units on large, rural lots; single family units on typical neighborhood lots; and attached mediumdensity units, including townhouses, condominiums, and apartments. Various residential architectural styles can be found throughout the city neighborhoods that include favorable design components, such as front porches, abundant landscaping, and façade articulation. Streets within residential neighborhoods are generally tree-lined, equipped with sidewalks, and narrow enough to be comfortable for pedestrians and bicycles. However, some streets, such as Starr Avenue, would benefit from a median, planting berm, dedicated bike paths, Agenda Item #5.1.

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7 community design
or other traffic calming strategies. Decorative fences are often used to establish the boundary between public and private spaces at the street level. These fences, more common in older neighborhoods, also create visual interest for pedestrians. Landscaping in the city’s residential neighborhoods is also colorful and highly textured, which helps to further enhance the pedestrian experience.

Street patterns, an important component of the urban form that influence not only circulation and community access but also community layout and character, vary between neighborhoods in St. Helena. Neighborhood streets such as those in the Hillview and Westside Annex neighborhoods exhibit a traditional grid pattern, while the Big Rock, Fir Hill, and Vallejo neighborhoods have rural and semi-rural street patterns.

Residential neighborhoods
possess unique identities and
different types of architecture
dating from various decades.

Agenda Item #5.1.

Caption.
7 community design
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave Big Rock
Vallejo
McCorkle
Hunt
Sylvaner
Starr
Mitchell
Spring Mountain
El
Bonita
Crinella
Fir Hill
Vineyard
Downtown
Residential
Dean
York
Vineyard
Valley
Valley View
Hillview
Westside
Annex
Signorelli
South
Bridge
Central
Business
Districts
Sulphur
Springs
Grayson
Quail
Court
Downtown
Residential
Vineland
Station
Hunts
Grove
Stone
Bridge
Lower
Reservoir
Crane
Park
Jacob
Meily
Park
Wappo
Park
!
!
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 7.1
Neighborhoods
Neighborhoods
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Railroads
Parks and Open Space
Water Features
Agenda Item #5.1.

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COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS
Commercial and industrial areas are located along Main Street and adjacent streets. The Central Business District (CBD), centered on Main Street, serves as the city’s downtown and provides a variety of uses for residents and visitors.

The CBD is characterized by historic buildings, an active pedestrian environment, street trees, and other key defining streetscape elements, such as historic streetlights and special sidewalk treatments. Other commercial and industrial areas are located along Adams Street, Main Street south of Sulphur Creek, and the areas surrounding Dowdell Lane and Vintage Avenue. In these service areas commercial, office, and industrial land uses are less intense and often include on-site parking. Streets are typically two-lane and have minimal streetscape amenities.

7.3 Key Findings
There are several challenges and opportunities facing St. Helena related to community design. The following key findings are based upon comprehensive existing conditions analysis and community input.
• St. Helena’s built environment is characterized by a compact and historic downtown, tree-lined neighborhoods, breathtaking agricultural landscapes, and a distinctive, early 20th century small-town character. By effectively guiding the built form of any potential new construction, the City can ensure that St. Helena preserves its unique qualities.
• St. Helena incorporates approximately 3,000 acres of land, of which 1,500 acres are located within the boundaries of the Urban Limit Line (ULL). The ULL helps define the city’s character by focusing evolution and change in the central core. Careful, context-sensitive development of areas within the ULL can help the city retain its historic and agricultural character while accommodating well thought out growth in coming decades in order to protect the agricultural uses and rural quality of both the city and surrounding areas.

Commercial and industrial
buildings should be distinct
with varying roof lines and
articulated facades.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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• St. Helena’s historic downtown is cherished by residents and draws visitors from around the world. The city’s Main Street features a variety of shopping and dining venues. Encouraging new commercial and mixed-use projects that complement the area’s existing sense of place can enhance Main Street’s character while creating uses to serve residents, visitors and businesses.
• St. Helena boasts a number of well-preserved older buildings along Main Street that help communicate the city’s character to those entering or passing through town, particularly from the north. Key landmark buildings include the Starr, Galleron, Ritchie, Oddfellows, and Pritchard buildings. Preserving these structures and ensuring that new development complements their landmark status can help St. Helena maintain its unique character.
• Design Review is an important tool the City can use to continue to promote, ensure, and encourage new homes or remodels that reflect the scale, proportion, and/or building materials that characterize the surrounding neighborhood. Following design guidelines and/or form-based codes for remodels and new construction can ensure that remodeled or new residences complement existing neighborhoods and contribute positively to St.

Helena’s sense of place.
• Residential neighborhoods throughout the city possess unique identities and include types of architecture dating from various decades of the 20th Century and present day. Establishing a flexible set of design guidelines and/or form-based codes for specific areas can ensure that new development and remodels complement the distinct character of St. Helena’s existing neighborhoods, while allowing for design innovation to accommodate modern needs and tastes.
• St. Helena’s local character is strongly rooted in its agricultural heritage and location in the world-famous Napa Valley winemaking region. By highlighting the importance of key viewsheds and agricultural lands to the community’s overall design, the City can maintain a strong visual connection to the essential role of agriculture in St. Helena’s past and future.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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Adams Street Property Visioning Project
top The site plan for the Adams Street Property
includes key community objectives identified during
the vision and land use alternatives processes.
bottom The Adams Street property was identified as
a good location for a farmer’s market.

In conjunction with the City of St. Helena’s General
Plan Update planning process, the City initiated the
Adams Street Property Visioning project in October
of 2008. The process included several stakeholder
interview sessions, consultation with the General Plan
Update Steering Committee, and two community
workshops. The Adams Street property is a catalytic
site with the potential to meet a range of the community’s needs, including open space, housing and retail.

Building on the community vision and informed
by economic feasibility analysis, the Adams Street
Property Visioning exercise provided overall vision
and specific design direction, establishing a framework for guiding future public and private developments on the site, as well as public improvements, such as community open spaces and streetscape
enhancements.

Design characteristics outlined in the project exemplify many of the Community Design Element’s policies and implementing actions, including new community gathering spaces, preserving important views, green buildings and infrastructure, and an emphasis
on bicycle and pedestrian connections.

Detailed site master planning will occur when a
specific development proposal comes forth for the
Adams Street property.

CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS
Agenda Item #5.1.

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St. Helena’s downtown demonstrates its historic character and unique sense of place.
• High-quality and sustainable design is an important component of the overall community design for St. Helena. Incorporating sustainable design practices into site layout, building design, landscaping, and public infrastructure is key to supporting projects that use less energy and water and have a smaller environmental impact. In addition, high-quality design contributes significantly to overall community design. Supporting sound construction practices and the use of high-quality materials will ensure long-lasting, wellbuilt structures. • St. Helena’s Main Street is State Route 29, a major north-south thoroughfare that runs through the Napa Valley. Residents consistently cite heavy traffic as one of the most pressing concerns facing the City and highlight a need to ensure that community design efforts reduce auto-related travel in favor of alternate transportation modes. Creating a community design framework that enhances St. Helena’s human scale can ensure that the city remains a comfortable, safe, and convenient environment for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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7.4 Goals
The goals of the Community Design Element are:

Respect St. Helena’s Historic Character and Unique Sense of Place.

St. Helena is committed to enhancing and maintaining its existing community and agricultural character.

Promote a High-Quality and Sustainable Built Environment and Public Realm.

St. Helena is dedicated to maintaining an urban design framework that strengthens the physical form of the City by establishing a high standard of quality, context-sensitivity and ecological sustainability for the design, planning and construction of new and renovated structures, gateways, streets, public infrastructure, and public spaces.

Encourage Community Design throughout the City that Helps to Build Community.

Encourage Human Interaction and Support Non-Automobile Transportation.

St. Helena is committed to promoting community design that is human-scaled, comfortable, safe, and convenient for pedestrian, bicyclist, and transit use.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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Strengthen the City’s Neighborhoods to Retain Desirable Characteristics While Allowing for Smart Change and Evolution.

St. Helena recognizes the unique characteristics of individual neighborhoods and the potential for appropriate change within the context of a well-planned city. The City is committed to solving specific neighborhood problems and implementing neighborhood priorities to value enhance livability.

Green building and landscaping, such as green roofs and green stormwater infrastructure, should be incorporated into new development.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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7.5 Policies and Implementing Actions
A range of policies and implementing actions are outlined below and organized into the following topic areas:

1. High-Quality and Sustainable Design;

2. Commercial and Industrial Areas;

3. Residential Neighborhoods;

4. Open Space;

5. Gateways, Edges, and Views; and

6. Street Pattern and Layout.

The following policies and actions mandate, encourage, or allow certain initiatives to be pursued throughout the duration of the General Plan. Together, they serve as strategic directions for City staff and partners, highlighting where time and resources should be focused. As the city changes and evolves, the following policies and actions will help guide new public infrastructure and private development in achieving sustainable, high-quality design. Buildings should utilize native landscaping, passive heating
and cooling, and green roofs.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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1 HIGH-QUALITY AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
Policies
CD1.1 Ensure high-quality design and construction through a robust design review process.

CD1.2 Ensure the construction of sustainable buildings and landscaping in all public and private development projects.

CD1.3 Require construction and development practices that reduce energy demand through conservation and efficiency, such as the use of green building materials, site design to maximize passive heating and cooling and energy generation, on-site water reuse, water efficient landscaping, and use of low-flow appliances, among others.
(Also see the Climate Change Element, Topic Area 2)
CD1.4 Strengthen water conservation measures for development or construction that result in significant reductions in local water use and the protection of local water resources.

CD1.5 Require stormwater management techniques that minimize surface water runoff in public and private developments.

Utilize low impact development techniques such as bioswales and other best management practices to manage stormwater. (Also see the Open Space and Conservation Element, Topic Area 3) CD1.6 Encourage the adaptive reuse, rehabilitation, and retrofitting of historic buildings in which the original use is no longer feasible. (Also see the Historic Resources Element, Topic Area 1) Buildings should strengthen
conservation measures and
maximize passive heating and
cooling.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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1 HIGH-QUALITY AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
CD1.7 Promote the application of sustainable building practices to the preservation of historic resources. (Also see the Historic Resources Element, Topic Area 1) CD1.8 Require, to the extent feasible, that all new development include underground utilities to minimize their negative visual impact. In addition, funding sources to underground electrical lines shall be sought so the undergrounding of existing overheard lines can occur over time.

Implementing Actions
CD1.A Continue to implement the existing design review process for new development and remodels throughout the city. Create additional tools, including design guidelines and/or form-based codes, to inform decision-making and ensure high-quality, sustainable design that is compatible with and enhances community character. Consider formation of historic design review committee and/or policies.

CD1.B Adopt a Green Building and Landscaping Ordinance that establishes green building and landscaping site design standards customized to meet the unique climatic context of the community. Landscaping standards should limit impervious paving and identify standards and incentives that encourage the use of locally-propagated native, low-water, drought-tolerant planting, and integrated pest management practices.

CD1.C Partner with third party agencies, such as PG&E, to encourage the inclusion of energy-efficient systems in remodels and retrofits of existing buildings and residences.

CD1.D Consider offering incentives for improving energy-efficiency in existing buildings.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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2 COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS
Policies
CD2.1 Maintain the character and identity of the downtown by emphasizing strong street definition, creating active front setbacks with outdoor seating, locating parking on the side and behind buildings, and maximizing entrances and transparency on building façades.

CD2.2 Within industrial and commercial areas outside downtown, maintain transitional zones as needed to protect public health and safety but allow flexible front setbacks while encouraging transparent and accessible front façades and parking on the sides and backs of buildings.

CD2.3 Encourage distinction within and between buildings by varying roof lines and articulating building facades.

Central Business and MixedUse districts should emphasize strong street definition and
active front setbacks with outdoor seating .

Activate front
setbacks with
outdoor seating
Buildings that front
sidewalks maintain
strong street definition
Wide sidewalks
with street trees
Stepbacks & articulation
provide distinction
between/within buildings
Articulate and
stepback upper
floors
Encourage
balconies on
Parking located on upper floors
the side or rear of
buildings
Encourage awnings
and overhangs
Building facade
fronts sidewalk
Articulate
front facades
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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Allow flexibility in
setbacks and encourage
landscaping
Maintain a transparent
and accessible
front entry
2 COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS
CD2.4 Ensure active and complete streets within commercial districts by providing sidewalk amenities, such as landscape buffers, berms, street trees, street furniture, outdoor dining, public art, signage, and wayfinding.

CD2.5 Encourage property owners to improve façades and landscaping surrounding existing buildings through the implementation of beautification programs.

Industrial uses should allow
flexible front setbacks while
encouraging transparent and
accessible front façades.

Encourage solar
and sustainable
elements
Transparent and
accessible front
entry
Allow flexible setback
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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2 COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS
Implementing Actions
CD2.A Develop and implement design guidelines and/or form-based codes, to provide oversight and guidance for new buildings and renovations. (Also see the following elements: Land Use and Growth Management, Topic Area 3; and Economic Sustainability, Topic Area 3)
CD2.B Require street tree plantings along the commercial streets east of Main Street to reflect Main Street’s existing planting pattern, in order to provide visual continuity and to create a pleasant pedestrian environment.

CD2.C Install attractive and well-designed community amenities such as public restrooms, drinking fountains, benches, bicycle racks, and trash and recycling containers in commercial districts. Ensure that community amenities are designed and installed to complement surrounding businesses and support the pedestrian-orientation of the street.

CD2.D Require businesses and structures to be of a scale commensurate with existing older buildings in the CB and SC land use areas.

CD2.E Adopt and implement façade and landscape beautification programs to provide assistance to owners of existing commercial and industrial properties.

CD2.F Explore the need for additional programs, such as commercial façade improvement programs and traffic calming incentive programs. (See also the Circulation Element for policies and implementing actions related to traffic calming).

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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3 RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
Policies
CD3.1 Limit building envelope sizes and require adequate side and rear setbacks to preserve the character of existing residential areas and to avoid overbuilt lots. Require future development to conform to the pattern and density of the neighboring areas. In order to complement existing town character and protect against incursion into vineyard agricultural areas.

CD3.2 Ensure that new residential designs contribute positively to existing neighborhoods by complementing character and incorporating design features, such as front porches, façade articulation and
stepbacks.

CD3.3 Encourage the use of landscaping and tree plantings as buffers between sidewalks and residential
uses. Discourage the removal of
existing trees and adopt more comprehensive tree preservation standards. (See also the Open Space and Conservation Element for policies and implementing actions related to tree preservation).

CD3.4 Ensure safe bicycle and pedestrian-friendly character on all residential streets. Consider retrofitting existing wide residential streets, such as Starr Avenue, with landscaped medians, wide sidewalks, and adjacent Class I pedestrian and bicycle trails.

New development and remodeling should conform to the
pattern and character of
neighboring homes.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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3 RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
Low density residential.

Encourage permeable paving
materials, and limit
impermeable surfaces
Locate parking
behind, do not allow
parking to dominate
facades
Encourage native
landscaping
Implementing Actions
CD3.A Develop and implement residential design guidelines and/or formbased codes, to provide oversight and guidance for new buildings and renovations. (Also see the Land Use and Growth Management Element, Topic Area 2) CD3.B Review the existing ordinance language limiting lot coverage/floor area ratio according to parcel size in residential areas in order to preserve neighborhood character, reduce adverse view and shade impacts on existing homes, improve groundwater infiltration, and avoid overbuilt conditions. At the same time, care needs to be taken that any ordinance revision does not impair the ability to build second units on existing lots where appropriate.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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3 RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
Higher density residential.

Medium density residential.

Enforce lot
coverage
requirements
Encourage
permeable paving
materials
Articulate and
stepback upper Locate parking floors
behind, do not
allow parking to
dominate facades
Articulate and
stepback upper
floors
Encourage
balconies on
Parking located on upper floors
the side or rear of
buildings
Encourage awnings
and overhangs
Building facade
fronts sidewalk
Articulate
front facades
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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3 RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
Encourage landscaping and
street trees to create bicycle
and pedestrian-friendly
streets.

Landscaping in
setback
Parking Parking
Safe and pedestrian
friendly streets
CD3.C Encourage the design and location of parking to minimize its appearance on front façades, locating it to the side or rear of the building, where feasible.

CD3.D Encourage property owners to install landscaping and tree plantings in front setbacks as a buffer between the sidewalk and residential uses.

CD3.E Require new development to include landscaping and street trees.

CD3.F Establish residential street guidelines that ensure a safe environment for families and children. Encourage
traffic calming, street trees, wide
sidewalks, and Class I or II bike
lanes.

CD3.G Explore a reduction in parking requirements for residential uses that implement transportation
demand management strategies,
consistent with the parking management strategy articulated in the Circulation Element.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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4 OPEN SPACE
Plazas and community
gardens are both examples
of open space.

Policies
CD4.1 Encourage the development of public spaces for formal and informal gatherings, such as plazas, seating and small performance areas.

CD4.2 Integrate open space, including parks, community gardens, natural areas, and agriculture into the community to strengthen the connection to St.

Helena’s agricultural heritage and provide a sense of openness.

CD4.3 Support agricultural and lowintensity uses beyond the Urban Limit Line.
(Also see the Land Use and Growth
Management Element, Topic Area 1)
CD4.4 Integrate bicycle and pedestrian trails adjacent to open spaces to enhance connectivity throughout the
city and the region.
(Also see the Parks and Recreation
Element, Topic Area 6)
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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4 OPEN SPACE
Implementing Actions
CD4.A Require private development to incorporate appropriate public open space into site designs.
(See also the Parks and Recreation and Open Space and Conservation elements provide additional goals, policies and actions related to open space).

Bicycle and pedestrian trails
can be located adjacent to
open spaces.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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5 GATEWAYS, EDGES AND VIEWS
Policies
CD5.1 Preserve the visual and physical connection to agriculture by protecting views from streets, parks, and open spaces to vineyards, agriculture, and hillsides. Where new streets are extended adjacent to agriculture, encourage hillside, and vineyard views by maintaining agricultural activities at the road edge.

Existing east and west entries should be maintained in their current appearance, protecting and improving views of vineyards and the surrounding hillsides wherever possible.

CD5.2 Use public streets or pathways to form the edge of developed areas, allowing views of open space from streets.

CD5.3 Ensure that key gateways into the City receive special, character-defining treatments and landscaping. Consider establishing landmark trees along the roads that serve as gateways to the City. New commercial development on Main Street south of the Sulphur Creek bridge should be carefully designed to provide an appropriate gateway in to the downtown area
CD5.4 Preserve and enhance the City’s nighttime environment and quiet rural sounds of the night for residents and wildlife by limiting the negative effects of artificial lighting.

Visual and physical connections to agriculture and open space provide views and act as
edges.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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5 GATEWAYS, EDGES AND VIEWS
Implementing Actions
CD5.A Working with CALTRANS, design and install a landscaping treatment for the northbound (State Route 29 from Chaix Lane north to Sulphur Creek) and westbound (from Silverado Trail west along Pope, and any future roadway segment from the Trail to downtown) gateways into the city. Consider a tunnel of trees similar to those located at the northern gateway.

CD5.B Adopt a dark sky ordinance to preserve the City’s rural character by limiting the negative effects of light pollution on wildlife and community aesthetics. Develop lighting design guidelines for new development that mitigate light pollution while ensuring adequate nighttime security.

CD5.C New development shall not result in significant light, glare, and noise that could affect residents, visitors, and wildlife. Lighting shall be shielded to reduce glare and shall be cast downwards. Outdoor lighting shall occur primarily for the purpose of security and safety. Upcast lighting shall be discouraged to minimize impacts on wildlife and to retain the agricultural ambience of St.

Helena. All lighting shall conform to the Lighting Zone 2 requirements of Title 24 of the California Building Code.

CD5.D The City shall encourage the undergrounding of any new electrical lines required to serve new development. In addition, funding sources to underground existing electrical lines shall be sought so that undergrounding of existing overhead electrical lines can occur over time.

CD5.E The City shall investigate the possibility of designating all or a portion of State Route 29 that passes through the City of St. Helena as a scenic highway under the State’s scenic highway program.

A tunnel of trees provides a
verdant gateway into the City.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 7-29
7 community design
6 STREET PATTERN AND LAYOUT
Policies
CD6.1 Ensure a connected circulation system that maximizes pedestrian and bicycle connectivity.

CD6.2 Promote the inclusion of bicycle and pedestrian trails and bicycle lanes throughout the City, as well as connections to regional trail systems, such as the Napa Valley Vine Trail.
(Also see the Parks and Recreation and Circulation elements for additional policies and implementing actions relating to bicycle and pedestrian trails and amenities.) CD6.3 Require streetscape design that maximizes bicycle and pedestrian usage by providing safe and appropriately lit streets.

Streetscape design that promotes safety and connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
7-30 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
7 community design
Implementing Actions
CD6.A Facilitate the safe and efficient flow of pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic. Enhance and frame views of the hills and surrounding agricultural lands; and incorporate appropriate traffic calming features to support and complement the neighborhood environment. (See also the Circulation Element for goals, policies and actions related to street connectivity).
6 STREET PATTERN AND LAYOUT
Acceptable: Traditional connected street pattern.

Acceptable: Connected bicycle
and pedestrian street pattern.

Not Preferred: Disconnected
street pattern.

Agenda Item #5.1.

open space and
conservation
chapter eight
Agenda Item #5.1.

8-2 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
Open Space is a critical
component of St. Helena’s
character.

8.1 Purpose of the Element
The Open Space and Conservation Element presents a framework for governing future decisions about how St. Helena will sustain open space and natural resources for today’s residents, as well as future generations. It aims to protect, maintain, and enhance St. Helena’s natural resources and open spaces, while balancing community needs with conservation to benefit the common good.

The Open Space and Conservation Element includes the following sections. • 8.2 Open Space and Natural Resources in St. Helena. Identifies key open space and conservation areas and resources in St. Helena (p. 8-3). • 8.3 Key Findings. Identify key findings based on an existing conditions analysis and extensive community outreach (p. 8-16). • 8.4 Goals. Defines overarching goals to guide policies and implementing actions (p. 8-20).
• 8.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to protect the City’s natural areas and resources and expand and maintain a comprehensive open space and parks system (p. 8-21). 1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-3
8 open space and conservation
As a complement to the City’s Open Space and Conservation Element, the Parks and Recreation Element includes detailed descriptions of existing parks and recreational facilities, as well as policies and implementing actions related to their programming and improvement.

8.2 Open Space and Natural Resources in St. Helena
St. Helena enjoys a rural setting that includes a wealth of natural resources, providing the foundation for an open space system that can fulfill multiple functions, supporting the community’s health, safety, recreation, and natural environment.. Within its city limits, there is a mix of agricultural uses, urban development, and wooded hillsides along with a diverse array of vegetation communities, including aquatic, grassland, chaparral, oak woodland, riparian woodland, coniferous forest, agricultural croplands, and developed lands (Figure 8.1). The most significant stands of native vegetation, in terms of size and variety, occur on the heavily forested hillsides on the east and west sides of town. Some of the most important wildlife resources within the city are found along the Napa River and its two tributaries, York Creek and Sulphur Creek. Although agricultural and urban development have encroached on these riparian corridors as St. Helena has grown, the corridors still provide habitat for stands of large trees and a variety of plant, animal, and aquatic species.

The Sulphur Creek corridor is
a primary open space resource
for St. Helena.

Agenda Item #5.1.

8-4 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
TABLE 8.1: Biotic Communities and Associated Land Cover Types Land Cover Type Natural Communities Acres
Annual Grass
California Annual Grasslands Alliance

51.78 Upland Annual Grasslands & Forbs Formation
Blue Oak Woodland* Blue Oak Alliance 69.74
Blue Oak-Foothill Pine* Foothill Pine Alliance 3.13
Chamise-Redshank Chaparral* Chamise Alliance 5.29
Coastal Oak Woodland*
California Bay-Madrone-Coast LIve Oak - (Black Oak Big - Leaf Maple) NFD Super Alliance 78.07
Coast Live Oak Alliance
Douglas-Fir Douglas-fir Alliance 127.63
Eucalyptus Eucalyptus Alliance 5.95
Lacustrine Water 53.88
Mixed Chaparral
Leather Oak - California Bay - Rhamnus spp. Mesic Serpentine NFD Alliance

2.18 Leather Oak - White Leaf Manzanita - Chamise Xeric Serpentine NFD Super Alliance
Montane Hardwood*
Coast Live Oak - Blue Oak - (Foothill Pine) NFD Association 176.98
Mixed Oak Alliance
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-5
8 open space and conservation
TABLE 8.1: Biotic Communities and Associated Land Cover Types (continued) St. Helena’s diverse natural communities host a number of sensitive ecological and biological resources, including numerous special-status species, defined as plants and animals that are legally protected under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), California Endangered Species Act (CESA), or other regulations, and species that are considered sufficiently rare by the scientific community to qualify for such listing. In total, there are seven special status plant species and seven special-status animal species known or assumed to be present within a 1-mile radius of St. Helena. Additionally, York Creek, Sulphur Creek, and the Napa River provide critical habitat for steelhead. Figure 8.2 shows critical habitat and special status plant and animal species occurring within a 1-mile radius of St. Helena. Table 8.2 lists critical habitat and special status plant and animal species occurring within a 1-mile radius of St. Helena, showing federal and State listing status.

Land Cover Type Natural Communities Acres
Montane Riparian*
Mixed Willow Super Alliance
124.03
Valley Oak - (CA Bay - Coast Live Oak - Walnut - Ash) Riparian Forest NFD Association
White Alder (Mixed Willow - CA Bay - Big Leaf Maple) Riparian Forest NFD Association
Orchard-Vineyard Agriculture 1315.19
Urban
Agriculture
Urban or Built-up 1116.81
Vacant
Valley Oak Woodland* Valley Oak Alliance 5.19
Other Non-native Woodland 8.40
Total 3,144.25
Notes: *denotes sensitive natural community
Sources: Napa County 2005, EDAW 2007.

Agenda Item #5.1.

8 open space and conservation
Chaix Ln
Mills Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
DeanYork Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
MoneyWay
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Pope St
Railroad Ave
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
ValleyView Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
PinotWay
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
MountainView Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Lower
Reservoir
Park
Crane
Park
Wappo Park
Jacob
Meily
Park
Lyman
Park
Stone
Bridge
Park
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
Parks and Recreation
Open Space
Existing Ag/Rural Residential
Existing Agriculture
ExistingWinery
Williamson Act Parcels
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Figure 8.1
Agriculture, Open Space,
Parks and Recreation
Agenda Item #5.1.

8 open space and conservation
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
York Cre e k
Sulpher Creek
Napa River
Napa R ive r
York Creek
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, Napa County and Blueridge Berryessa Dataset, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
City of St. Helena
Railroad
River/Creeks
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Annual Grass
Mixed Chaparral
Chamise-Redshank Chaparral
Orchard-Vineyard
Blue Oak Woodland
Coastal Oak Woodland
Valley Oak Woodland
Eucalyptus
Montane Hardwood
Blue Oak-Foothill Pine
Douglas-Fir
Urban
Lacustrine
Montane Riparian
Unknown
Figure 8.2
Land Cover and Biotic Communities
Agenda Item #5.1.

8 open space and conservation
!( !(
!(
!( !(
Pallid Bat
Foothill Yellow-Legged Frog
Clara Hunt's Milk-Vetch
Purple Martin
Greene's Narrow-Leaved Daisy
Sharsmith's
Western Flax
North American
Porcupine
Calistoga Ceanothus
Narrow-Anthered
Brodiaea
Clara Hunt's Milk-Vetch
Bent-Flowered
Fiddleneck
Napa False Indigo
Steelhead - Central
California Coast DPS
Spotted Owl
California Giant
Salamander
Purple Martin
·|}29
·|}29
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; CNDDB, 2018; U.S. Fish and Widlife Service, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
City of St. Helena
Figure 8.3
Special Species Status Occurences
Disclaimer: Information presented in this map is
based on data from CNDDB verson 03/2018.

Areas of occurence on this map represent areas
in which known locations of the species listed
here have been found as of the date of this version.

There may be additional occurences of additional
species within this area which have not been
surveyed and/or mapped. Lack of information in the
CNDDB about a species or an area can never be
used as proof that no special species occur in an area.

CNDDB can be contacted for more information
about these occurences.
!( Spotted Owl
Animal Species
Foothill Yellow-Legged Frog !
! Pallid Bat
North American Porcupine
Purple Martin
Steelhead - Central California coast DPS
Sharsmith's Western Flax
California Giant Salamander
Plant Species
Clara Hunt's Milk-Vetch
Calistoga Ceanothus
Napa False Indigo
Sharsmith's Western Flax
! !
!
!
! Bent-Flowered Fiddleneck
Narrow-Anthered Brodiaea
Greene's Narrow-Leaved Daisy
Railroad
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
USFWS Critical Habitat
Steelhead
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-9
8 open space and conservation
TABLE 8.2: Special-Status Plant Species Known to Occur or Potentially Occur in St. Helena Plant Species Status
Common Name Scientific Name
Federal
Listing
Category
(USFWS)
State Listing
Category
(DFG)
California
Native Plant
Society
Category
Clara Hunt’s milk-vetch Astragalus claranus E T 1B
Napa false indigo Amorpha californica var. napensis -- -- 1B Narrow-anthered California bodiaea Brodiaea californica var. leptandra -- -- 1B Rincon Ridge ceanothus Ceanothus confusus -- -- 1B
Calistoga ceanothus Ceanothus divergens -- -- 1B
Holly-leaf ceanothus Ceanothus purpureus -- -- 1B
Sonoma ceanothus Ceanothus sonomensis -- -- 1B
Narrow-leaved daisy Erigeron angustatus -- -- 1B
Two-carpellate western flax Hesperolinon bicarpellatum -- -- 1B Napa western flax Hesperolinon sp. nov. "serpentinum" -- -- 1B Colusa layia Layia septentrionalis -- -- 1B
Jepson’s leptosiphon Leptosiphon jepsonii -- -- 1B
Cobb Mountain lupine Lupinus sericatus -- -- 1B
Marin checkerbloom Sidalcea hickmanii ssp. viridis -- -- 1B Marsh checkerbloom Sidalcea oregana ssp. hydrophila -- -- 1B Agenda Item #5.1.

8-10 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
Plant Species Status
Common Name Scientific Name
Federal
Listing
Category
(USFWS)
State Listing
Category
(DFG)
California
Native Plant
Society
Category
Sonoma beardtongue Penstemon newberryi var.
sonomensis -- -- 1B
Green jewel-flower Streptanthus breweri var. hesperidis -- -- 1B Oval-leaved viburnum Viburnum ellipticum -- -- 2
Notes: CNPS = California Native Plant Society; DFG = California Department of Fish and game; USFWS = U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Legal Status Definitions
Federal Listing Categories (USFWS):

E Endangered
T Threatened
State Listing Categories (DFG):

E Endangered
T Threatened
R Rare
CNPS Categories:
1A Plant species presumed extinct in California.
1B Plant species considered rare or endangered in California and elsewhere (but not legally protected under the ESA or CESA). 2 Plant species considered rare or endangered in California but more common elsewhere (but not legally protected under the ESA or CESA) 3 Need more information about this plant (review list)
4 Limited distribution (watch list)
Sources: California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) 2007, DFG 2007, USFWS 2007 Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-11
8 open space and conservation
TABLE 8.3: Special-Status Wildlife Species Known to Occur or Potentially Occur in St. Helena Animal Species Status
Common Name Scientific Name
Federal
Listing
Category
(USFWS)
State Listing Category
(DFG)
Invertebrates
Valley elderberry longhorn beetle Desmocerus californicus dimorphus T -- California freshwater shrimp Syncaris pacifica E E
Fish
Central Valley steelhead (distinct population segment) Oncorhynchus mykiss T, NMFS -- Chinook salmon, Central Valley (fall/late
fall-run evolutionarily significant unit) Oncorhynchus tshawytscha C, NMFS CSC Amphibians
California red-legged frog Rana aurora draytonii T CSC
Foothill yellow-legged frog Rana boylii -- CSC
Reptiles
Northwest pond turtle Clemmys marmorata marmorate -- CSC Birds
Cooper’s hawk Accipiter cooperii -- CSC
Sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus -- CSC
Black swift Cypseloides niger -- CSC
Yellow warbler Dendroica petechia brewsteri -- CSC
White-tailed kite Elanu leucurus -- CSC
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus T CSC
Double-crested cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus -- CSC
Agenda Item #5.1.

8-12 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
Animal Species Status
Common Name Scientific Name
Federal
Listing
Category
(USFWS)
State Listing Category
(DFG)
Purple martin Progne subis -- CSC
Northern spotted owl Strix occidentalis caurina T CSC
Mammals
Pallid bat Antrozous pallidus -- CSC
Pacific Townsend’s big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii townsendii -- CSC Notes: DFG = California Department of Fish and Game; USFWS = U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Legal Status Definitions
Federal Listing Categories (USFWS):

E Endangered
T Threatened
C Candidate
X Critical Habitat is designated for this species by USFWS NMFS Species under the Jurisdiction of the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service State Listing Categories (DFG):

E Endangered
T Threatened
CSC species of special concern
FPS Fully Protected Species
Sources: CNDDB 2007, USFWS 2007
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-13
8 open space and conservation

CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Conservation of natural resources includes protections not only for the plants, trees, animals, fish, birds, and microorganisms present in the urban and natural environment around us, but also for the water, soil, habitats, and ecosystems that make up the ecological community in which we live. The richer the diversity of life around us, the greater the opportunity for healthy living, economic development, and adaptive responses to new challenges such as climate change.

Preserving and enhancing wildlife migration corridors in and around St. Helena is a critical consideration for natural resource conservation in the community, and it is directly related to the viability of local species. Open space areas and riparian corridors represent important opportunities for wildlife migration, including the movement of animals, birds, and fish. Key issues to address in conserving and protecting migration corridors include the loss of vegetative coverage; barriers such as fencing and linear transportation infrastructure; increased noise; and the presence of domestic animals.

Riparian corridors along
Sulphur Creek, York Creek and
the Napa River support a wide
range of wildlife species.

Agenda Item #5.1.

8-14 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation

OPEN SPACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION
St. Helena seeks to make full use of its open space resources to support public recreation while protecting the integrity of its natural habitats. The City envisions developing a comprehensive, integrated open space system that includes parks, trails and open spaces to serve the needs of residents and visitors. In particular, it also seeks to improve circulation and create opportunities for residents to walk and bicycle safely throughout the City by locating multi-modal trails along river, stream and other water corridors. These corridors are important open space amenities that can provide additional opportunities for public access and recreation.

Developing a multi-modal trail network along stream corridors can enable the City to increase the amount of open space acreage available to residents for outdoor recreation use. It can also provide opportunities to draw attention to the important role that the Napa River and its tributaries play in maintaining a high quality of life in the City. However, ensuring that these are designed and developed to protect critical riparian habitats and species is essential for the City to meet its long-term conservation goals.

The Open Space and Conservation Element contains goals, policies and implementing actions that seek to balance the City’s commitment to protecting its natural resources with its desire to expand residents’ access to open space amenities. As a complement to the City’s open space and conservation policy framework, the Parks and Recreation Element includes detailed descriptions of existing parks and recreational facilities, as well as policies and implementing actions related to their enhancement moving forward.

Developing a multi-modal
trail network linking open
space areas with the rest of
the community would provide
the community with many
benefits.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-15
8 open space and conservation

HEALTHY HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
There are additional opportunities to both utilize and protect open space resources in St. Helena’s developed commercial and residential areas. Street trees and urban forests increase habitat for local and migratory birds, contribute to improved air quality, and provide shade. Expanding efforts to maintain and increase street trees can support the City’s broader conservation goals.

Water conservation and habitat protection concerns result from soil contamination generated by industrial, agricultural, commercial, residential, or other uses that produce or utilize hazardous substances. Incorrect handling or disposal of these substances can compromise St. Helena’s water quality, particularly when stormwater runoff occurs on contaminated sites. By promoting the clean-up of contaminated sites, ensuring new projects have environmentally responsible stormwater runoff systems and development practices, and strengthening outreach efforts to educate the public about proper use and disposal of hazardous materials, the City can bolster its citywide conservation efforts and meet its long-term goals.

Shade, habitat and improved
air quality are all benefits
provided by a healthy urban
forest.

Agenda Item #5.1.

8-16 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation

8.3 Key Findings
There are several challenges and opportunities facing St. Helena related to open space and conservation. The following key findings are based upon a comprehensive existing conditions analysis and community input. • St. Helena enjoys a wealth of open space resources, ranging from wooded hillsides and cultivated agricultural areas to stream corridors. • The Napa River and its tributaries are key components of the City’s open space network. The corridors surrounding these waterways provide important wildlife habitat and play an integral role in the City’s natural flood protection. The Napa River is considered an impaired water body under the Clean Water Act and the federal EPA has set Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) thresholds for pathogens and sediment to serve as the starting point or planning tool for restoring water quality. The San Francisco Bay Area Regional Water Quality Control Board has established corrective actions to address pollutant levels in the Napa River in its San Francisco Bay Basin Water Quality Control Plan. Preserving and protecting the Napa River, its tributaries and surrounding corridors is essential to maintaining these resources as healthy ecosystems, critical habitats and valuable open spaces. • The City is undertaking the Upper York Creek Dam Removal and Ecosystem Restoration (UYCDR) project to improve habitat quality and connectivity for Central California Coast Steelhead and other aquatic species. Constructed in 1900, the dam is now out of service and is preventing access to upstream spawning and rearing habitat and limiting the natural sediment flow to Lower York Creek and the Napa River. The project involves cutting a 23-foot wide notch in the earthen dam to restore unimpeded creek flow and reduce the potential for future downstream habitat degradation and fish kills by preventing potentially detrimental sediment releases during summer low-flow conditions. The UYCDR is very important to the region and its completion has been a long-standing goal for ecosystem restoration and assistance for the threatened Central California Coast steelhead.

Protecting and enhancing St.

Helena’s open space resources
is a key component of the
City’s General Plan Vision.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-17
8 open space and conservation
Integrated Watershed Management
An integrated management strategy should be utilized
to protect and enhance St. Helena’s water resources.

An integrated approach to aquatic restoration and
management is a complex and multi-faceted process that comprehensively addresses the health of a watershed. The goal of this approach is to incorporate the specific issues of a local jurisdiction within a framework of broader environmental planning priorities. An integrated approach relies on partnerships between cities, counties, state and federal agencies,
and local environmental groups to achieve mutual
restoration and management goals.

Key watershed restoration and management strategies for St. Helena can include the creation and implementation of plans and projects to enhance
watershed functions that affect the animal, plant and
human communities within the area’s watershed.

Planning efforts and projects should be designed to
address issues that affect the overall health and quality of St. Helena’s watershed, such as: water supply; water quality; water recycling; drainage and flood
control; stormwater runoff; ecosystem preservation
and habitat protection; point and non-point pollution
sources; and recreation and public access.

The City’s Comprehensive Flood Control and River
Restoration Project, completed in 2011, is an example
of the City’s efforts to provide integrated watershed
management practices. This multi-benefit project
provided 100-year flood protection for an area of St.

Helena that has been subject to periodic historical
flooding, provided river restoration, and open space
areas for the City. This project is discussed in the
public health, safety and noise element.

CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS
Agenda Item #5.1.

8-18 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
• St. Helena is located over the Napa Valley Groundwater Subbasin and receives approximately 23 percent of its water supply from groundwater.

The subbasin is part of the Napa-Sonoma Valley Groundwater Basin and groundwater in the water-bearing aquifers ranges from approximately 50 to 300 feet below ground surface. The subbasin is recharged by rain, irrigation water, and percolation from some streams and tributary channels. Outflow from the subbasin occurs through pumping, discharge to surface water, springs, and evapotranspiration.
• A total of 46 percent of the City’s incorporated area is designated as Agriculture, with most acreage actively cultivated with vineyards. In addition, 14 percent is designated as Woodlands and Watersheds, which contains some agricultural uses, mostly vineyards, on hillsides near the city limits.

Preserving agricultural uses and protecting agricultural lands from urban encroachment are important steps to maintaining these highly productive and valuable open space resources.

The recreation needs of the
community can be met by
developing a system of integrated parks and open space areas.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-19
8 open space and conservation
• The community has expressed a strong interest in creating a system of integrated parks and open space areas that serve the recreation needs of residents and visitors. • Trees are an important part of St. Helena’s natural character. Trees cool streets and public spaces, help control erosion, improve air quality and add to the aesthetics of the community. Preserving the City’s tree resources, while planting new trees will enhance the high quality of life enjoyed by residents.

Both agriculture and natural
resource areas provide St.

Helena with open space
amenities.

Agenda Item #5.1.

8-20 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation

8.4 Goals
The goals of the Open Space and Conservation Element are:

Preserve, Enhance, and Restore Natural Resources.

St. Helena is committed to preserving, enhancing and restoring its abundance of natural habitat, wildlife, and open space resources.

Ensure Stewardship of Water Resources.

St. Helena is dedicated to promoting water conservation and ensuring its natural supply of water is properly managed and securely maintained, improving water quality.

Expand Sustainable Agricultural Practices.

St. Helena is committed to continuing and enhancing its agricultural traditions by promoting and reinforcing sustainable agricultural practices.

Create access opportunities to enjoy natural resources responsibly.

The open space areas of St.

Helena include built elements
like the historic Pope Street
Bridge.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-21
8 open space and conservation

8.5 Policies and Implementing Actions
A range of policies and implementing actions are outlined below and organized into the following topic areas:

1. Natural Habitat and Biodiversity;

2. Open Space;

3. Water Resource Protection and Conservation; and

4. A Healthy Living Environment
The following policies and actions
mandate, encourage, or allow
certain initiatives to be pursued
throughout the duration of the
General Plan. Together, they serve
as strategic directions for City staff
and partners, highlighting where
time and resources should be
focused.

Sulphur and York creeks along
with the Napa River support
the majority of St. Helena’s
riparian vegetation.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
8-22 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
1 NATURAL HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY
Policies
OS1.1 Preserve and enhance St. Helena’s riparian corridors for their value in providing wildlife habitat, biodiversity, natural drainage, and visual amenity.

OS1.2 Prohibit development, alteration, and/or removal of native vegetation from riparian areas. Disallow invasive species that degrade habitat quality.

OS1.3 Protect and enhance contiguous corridors of riparian vegetation along the Napa River and its tributaries in order to support regional wildlife movement and enhance aquatic habitat.

OS1.4 Protect natural habitats that have the potential to support rare, endangered, or special-status wildlife and plant species. Control invasive species that degrade habitat quality.

OS1.5 Restrict development of hillside areas in order to protect wildlife, vegetation, viewsheds, and open space characteristics.

OS1.6 Manage invasive species that degrade habitat quality, especially along the Napa River and its tributaries.

OS1.7 Promote, encourage, and require sustainable agricultural practices that are sensitive to natural habitat and do not harm wildlife.

Signage programs can raise
awareness about fragile natural systems.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-23
8 open space and conservation
1 NATURAL HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY
Implementing Actions
OS1.A Develop and adopt an ordinance for the protection, restoration, and enhancement of creek corridors. The ordinance should consider the following:
• Establish setbacks for all new development projects to protect stream function and riparian habitat, while allowing for limited recreational uses and access to the stream corridor for maintenance and flood control; • Limit use of herbicides and insecticides associated with aquatic toxicity in areas near and adjacent to creeks, and ensure best environmental management practices for all developments and industries; • Provide access for creek maintenance and public use through easements and cooperative agreements with landowners;
• Establish sufficient buffer width adjacent to waterways to allow for wildlife habitats, trails, and greenbelts;
• Adhere to Living River Principles that allow the river to meander, maintain its natural floodplain and retain natural channel features to support continuous fish migration and the health of riparian corridors;
• Encourage the use of bioswales, off-stream detention ponds, and other green best practices for stormwater management;
• Implement an Integrated Pest Management ordinance that includes provisions to minimize the reliance on pesticides that threaten water quality and to require the use of integrated pest management in municipal operations; and
• Incorporate relevant actions and performance standards in TMDL implementation strategies for the Napa River to control discharges of pathogens and sediment.

OS1.B Restrict development on open space-designated parcels along Sulphur Creek west of the Crane Avenue Bridge. All development must be outside the stream corridor and structures must be set back from the creek’s edge, consistent with California Department of Fish and Game standards. This does not preclude potential walking or multi-use trail development.

Agenda Item #5.1.

The gift of a relationship to water is a historic public good and a natural right that was compromised during the last century. The recovery of water
quality, natural riverbanks, public access, and recreational uses of our regional rivers and streams is good for the economy and our communities. It is
an investment in the future.

1. All citizens should be able to have a direct relationship to water.

2. All rivers and streams should meet the water
quality standard for swimming.

3. Rivers and streams should support an increasing
diversity of plant and wildlife.

4. Each community should monitor and care for
water quality in rivers and streams.

5. Upstream community water problems should
not impact downstream communities.

6. Water problems should be solved at the source,
addressing cause, not effect.

7. Public rights to waterways and wetlands should
not be compromised by private interests.

8. Wetlands and streams should be treated as
economic and ecological assets.

9. Wetlands and streams should not be lost, and
should be restored where possible.

Living River Principles
8-24 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation

CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS

10. Public access to and from the water, and along
the water’s edge, should be restored.

11. Riverbanks should be preserved or restored to
their natural form wherever possible.

12. Pre-industrial connections between water and
communities should be restored.

13. Redevelopment should accommodate public
access to water and riverbanks.

14. Redevelopment should restore community,
culture, ecology and economy.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 NATURAL HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-25
8 open space and conservation
OS1.C Coordinate with the California Department of Fish and Game, the Living Rivers Council, the Regional Water Quality Control Board and other federal, State, and local regional agencies with regulatory authority for water quality, protected plant and animal species, and streams and wetlands to restore and maintain creek corridors.

OS1.D Coordinate with the County, the California Department of Fish and Game, and other regional agencies to augment water flow in the Napa River and its tributaries in order to enhance year-round fish habitat and minimize stagnation and pollution.

OS1.E Create a work plan for restoring sensitive habitat that has been degraded by agriculture or other past practices. Where applicable, encourage agricultural enterprises to participate in restoration efforts and in efforts to prevent further degradation.

OS1.F Create a set of guidelines for the protection of special-status species and sensitive natural communities. Guidelines can include appropriate survey methods consistent with the California Department of Fish and Game, the U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service, NOAA Fisheries, and CEQA requirements.

OS1.G Require a biological assessment of any proposed project site where species or the habitat is defined as sensitive or special-status by the California Department of Fish and Game, NOAA Fisheries, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service might be present, including the installation of new wind turbines for alternate energy. Avoid potential impacts of sensitive resources as part of new development to the maximum extent feasible. Where complete avoidance is not possible, the project applicant must secure any required authorizations from jurisdictional agencies and provide adequate replacement mitigation to ensure there is no net loss in habitat acreage or values.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 NATURAL HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY
8-26 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
OS1.H Require all proposed projects adjacent to a creek corridor or located in the city’s hillside areas to submit a management
plan for protecting natural habitats, including provisions to:
• Employ supplemental planting and maintenance of grasses, shrubs, and trees of similar quality and quantity to provide
adequate vegetation cover to keep the
watersheds on steep slopes and along
streams in good condition, and to provide shelter and food for wildlife • Provide protection for wildlife habitat.

OS1.I Require new development to be
sited to maximize the protection of native
tree species, riparian vegetation, important concentrations of natural plants, and sensitive wildlife habitat.

OS1.J Discourage and minimize the installation of deer fencing to maintain wildlife corridors and support regional wildlife movement.

OS1.K Require environmental review of new agricultural uses, including, but not limited to, farming, horticulture, floriculture and viticulture, animal husbandry, and livestock farming. The environmental review shall ensure that no sensitive biological resources would be adversely affected. Viticulture review must include the replanting of existing vineyards in accordance with County regulations.

OS1.L Discourage removal of trees for agricultural or other development in hillside areas. Ensure Woodlands and Watershed restrictions are followed.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
1 NATURAL HABITAT AND BIODIVERSITY
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-27
8 open space and conservation
The City of St. Helena should
continue to develop relationships with State and Federal agencies to identify, fund
and implement projects that
increase the awreness of natural systems.

OS1.M Encourage agricultural activities that incorporate best sustainable agricultural management practices, including participation in local programs such as the Napa Valley Vintners - Napa Green Program and the California Certified Organic Farmers certification program.

OS1.N Conduct a study to determine if the build-up of gravel in Sulphur Creek will result in a high risk of flooding. Limit development in Flood Hazard Areas using FEMA’s 100-year flood zone regulations at a minimum, and inform property owners of existing developments so they are aware of flood risks and available State and Federal insurance opportunities. Ensure that implementation measures contribute positively to the preservation of the creek and its corridor.

OS1.O As part of new development, avoid disturbance to and loss of bird nests in active use by scheduling vegetation removal and new construction during the non-nesting season (September through January) or by conducting a preconstruction survey by a qualified biologist if vegetation removal and construction is initiated during the nesting season (February through August).

Surveys for nesting birds will be conducted no earlier than 14 days prior to tree removal and/or breaking ground. In the event that nesting birds are found, the project applicant will consult with CDFG and obtain approval for nest-protection buffers prior to tree removal and/or ground-breeding activities. Nest protection buffers will remain in effect until the young have fledged.

OS1.P Avoid potential impacts on jurisdictional wetlands and other waters as part of new development to the maximum extent feasible. Where complete avoidance is not possible, the project applicant must secure any required authorizations from jurisdictional agencies and provide adequate replacement mitigation to ensure there is not less in habitat acreage or values.

OS1.Q Carry out the removal of the Upper Dam on York Creek sufficient to allow the passage of fish, especially Central California steelhead, a threatened species, and complete the restoration of historical fish habitat above the dam.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
2 OPEN SPACE
8-28 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
Policies
OS2.1 Maintain agriculture as the mainstay of the local economy by preserving agricultural lands as an invaluable and irreplaceable open space resource. (Also see the Land Use and Growth Management Element for additional policies and implementing actions relating to agriculture.) OS2.2 Preserve open space for mineral resources. Ensure compliance with State requirements in the preservation of known locations of mineral resources.

OS2.3 Preserve open space for recreational uses, including a bicycle and pedestrian trail system along creek corridors when compatible with riparian vegetation and wildlife habitat. Where possible, integrate stream corridors with trails and other recreational open space, provided that the vegetation, habitat value, and water quality is not significantly impacted.

OS2.4 Ensure convenient public access between developed areas and stream corridors by providing access at frequent intervals.

OS2.5 Limit public access to habitat areas when public access will significantly impact the sensitivity of the habitat area.

OS2.6 Support floodplain management strategies that ensure adequate open space for flood management consistent with Living River Principles, FEMA, and State requirements at a minimum.
(Also see the Public Health, Safety, and Noise Element for additional policies and implementing actions relating to flood management.) Bioswales are a great example
of a low impact design
element.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
2 OPEN SPACE
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-29
8 open space and conservation
Implementing Actions
OS2.A Update the bicycle and pedestrian master plans every five years to establish alignments for proposed trails, design standards, amenities, and phasing. Determine and pursue the appropriate funding mechanisms for initial improvements and the long-term maintenance of the trail system, such as a landscape assessment district, real estate transfer tax, transient-occupancy tax, or bond measure.
(Also see the following elements: Circulation, Topic Area 2 and Parks and Recreation, Topic Area 6)
OS2.B Adopt a land dedication ordinance that requires developers to provide land and improvements, such as trails and re-vegetation, along both sides of water corridors as a condition of subdivision approval for areas adjacent or in the vicinity of St. Helena waterways. The width of dedicated corridors should be established in consultation with the California Department of Fish and Game.

OS 2.C Pursue easements to open space areas that do not have adequate access for maintenance and management purposes.

OS2.D Provide for open space opportunities by including passive and active public recreation areas within projects as they develop.

OS2.E Explore the possibility of public use or agricultural option of the wastewater treatment plant spray field in the form of trails and passive open space or other agricultural option.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
3 WATER QUALITY AND CONSERVATION
8-30 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
Policies
OS3.1 Promote stormwater management techniques that minimize surface water runoff in public and private developments. Utilize low impact development techniques to best manage stormwater through conservation, on-site filtration and water recycling, and ensure compliance with the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.

OS3.2 Reduce stormwater runoff in developed areas to protect water quality in creeks. Incorporate sustainable low impact design features in the design of infrastructure.

Implementing Actions
OS3.A Manage stormwater runoff in compliance with the City’s Stormwater and Runoff Pollution Control Ordinance, Stormwater Management Standards for Construction and Post-Construction, and the Development Manual Stormwater Standards, to ensure compliance with the City’s NPDES permit. Implement a surface water quality monitoring program to evaluate the effectiveness of stormwater management program activities in reducing the discharge of pollutants to receiving waters to the maximum extent practicable.

OS3.B Prevent water pollution from point and non-point sources, including runoff from agriculture, through implementation of City-adopted best management practices in applicable permits, Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), and the Plan for California’s Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program. Continue to adopt new and more effective and efficient best practices and programs.

OS3.C Minimize stormwater runoff and pollution by encouraging low impact design features, such as pervious parking surfaces, bioswales, and filter strips in new development projects. The City should be a model for incorporating lowimpact design elements as it implements streetscape and landscape improvements. In addition, the City should retrofit the existing public landscape with Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
3 WATER QUALITY AND CONSERVATION
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-31
8 open space and conservation
natural vegetative coverings or drainage systems that promote infiltration into the ground that can help detain stormwater and reduce pollution attributable to runoff.
(Also see the Community Design Element, Topic Area 1)
OS3.D Maintain the City’s water management program, a program for implementing water conservation efforts for households, businesses, industries, public infrastructure, and agricultural activities. This program should include the following measures:
• Identify building, plumbing, and landscaping standards and technologies that conserve water, especially; during water shortages; • Implement standards that require low-flow appliances and fixtures in all new developments; and
• Encourage and model the use of drought tolerant and native vegetation in landscaping.

OS3.E Promote the installation of drought tolerant and native plants in landscaping throughout the city. Potential measures include:
• An education program that details water conservation measures for use in local landscaping;
• Working with local nurseries to encourage education, demonstration, and sales of drought tolerant and native plants and water-wise irrigation systems. (Also see the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and implementing actions relating to water conservation); • Require City parks and properties to be landscaped with drought tolerant native plants that allow for high shade capacity wherever possible and use water-wise irrigation systems as a model for residents and businesses. (Also see the Public Facilities and Services Element for additional policies and implementing actions relating to water conservation).

OS3.F Provide appropriate permitting documents for project applicants requiring coverage under the Statewide National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Construction and Industrial Permits.

St. Helena should strive to protect
and enhance its natural resources.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
4 A HEALTHY LIVING ENVIRONMENT
8-32 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
8 open space and conservation
Policies
OS4.1 Protect and enhance tree resources in developed and undeveloped areas. Efforts should include: adequate maintenance of street trees, requiring replacement trees where existing significant trees cannot be saved, and requiring street trees as a condition of new development.

OS4.2 Encourage the clean-up of contaminated sites to protect the environment and public well-being.

OS4.3 Promote best management practices that encourage protection of soil, groundwater, and surface water resources from industrial, agricultural, and other uses that produce or dispose of hazardous or toxic substances.

Implementing Actions
OS4.A Establish an urban forestry program to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to maintaining and increasing the City’s trees. Key program aspects will include the following:
• A tree planting program to ensure that new trees are planted regularly; • A tree maintenance program to ensure that existing trees are healthy and pruned;
• A tree inventory to create a comprehensive listing of the City’s trees and tree-related needs;
• A Tree Committee to oversee the implementation of the urban forestry program and approval of tree removals; • A landmark tree list that identifies trees that require additional protection from damage and/or removal; and
• Appropriate Heritage tree deed restrictions.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
4 A HEALTHY LIVING ENVIRONMENT
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 8-33
8 open space and conservation
OS4.B Until implementation of the City-sponsored urban forestry program occurs, continue to use the Master Street Tree List as a guideline for all street tree plantings.

OS4.C Develop and adopt a Tree Ordinance for the purpose of protecting trees and identifying replacement trees. In coordination with an urban forestry program, existing, significant trees should be integrated into future development. In cases where existing trees cannot be saved, require the planting of replacement trees consistent with guidelines included in the Master Tree List.

OS4.D Explore the concept of establishing a City nursery program to enhance native species for preparation and planting throughout the city.

OS4.E Explore a citywide education opportunity for residents, businesses, industries, and agricultural uses to obtain information on pollution prevention, disposal of hazardous waste and chemicals, liability, and clean-up.

OS4.F Coordinate with County, State and federal agencies, as necessary, to identify the location and extent of contaminated sites in St. Helena.

Agenda Item #5.1.

This page intentionally left blank.

Agenda Item #5.1.

public health, safety,
and noise
chapter nine
Agenda Item #5.1.

9-2 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
The Public Health, Safety and
Noise element identifies goals,
policies, and implementing
actions to minimize risks to life
and property associated with
natural hazards.

9.1 Purpose of the Element
The Public Health, Safety, and Noise Element presents a framework for minimizing risks posed by environmental and human-caused hazards that may impact St. Helena residents’ health and welfare. The Public Health, Safety, and Noise Element aims to protect St. Helena residents, workers, and visitors from negative exposure to flooding, fires, hazardous materials, air pollution, and geologic and seismic hazards.

The Public Health, Safety, and Noise Element includes the following sections. • 9.2 Public Health, Safety, and Noise in St. Helena. Summarizes key issues related to the public health and safety of St. Helena residents, workers, and visitors (p. 9-3).
• 9.3 Key Findings. Identifies key findings based on an existing conditions analysis (p. 9-23).
• 9.4 Goals. Defines overarching goals to guide policies and implementing actions (p. 9-28).
• 9.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to minimize hazards and risks to life and property (p. 9-29). 1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and
services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety, and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture, and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-3
9 public health, safety, and noise

9.2 Public Health, Safety, and Noise in St. Helena
St. Helena is surrounded by natural beauty, hillsides, vineyards, and waterways.

While these natural features are great assets for the community, they can present risks due to flood, fire, geologic, and seismic hazards. In addition, human-caused risks, such as hazardous materials, air pollution, and unhealthy noise levels can also pose risks to community health and safety. Effective planning to prepare for and mitigate the adverse effects of these natural and human-caused risks can help ensure that St. Helena maintains a high level of safety for its residents, workers, and visitors. Following is a discussion of the various risks facing St.

Helena and ways for the City to anticipate and manage potential impacts.

FLOODING
The Napa River and some of its tributaries are prone to flooding, which poses a risk for people and structures in adjacent parts of the Napa Valley. The Napa River flows are largely influenced by precipitation. The peak flows generally occur in January and February. Some of the worst flooding in the immediate area of St. Helena has occurred in December and April, especially in and around the Vineyard Valley Mobile Home Park, which is near the confluence of Sulphur Creek and the Napa River. The area experienced significant flooding in 1986, 1995, 1997, and 2005 with extensive property loss.

Flood hazards also exist in the York Creek and Sulphur Creek Watersheds in St.

Helena. During the 2005 New Year’s Eve storm event, flooding from York Creek significantly impacted residential and industrial properties, including buildings located on the properties of Beringer Winery and the Culinary Institute. The Beringer water treatment plant flooded and ponds overflowed into the creek. In addition, the creek flooded vineyards on both sides of its corridor, downstream of State Route 29 to the Napa River.

Flood hazards in the Sulphur Creek watershed are due primarily to channel bed aggradation in the lower reach where gravel mining was historically conducted.

Sulphur Creek continues to supply and deposit substantial amounts of sediment Low-lying portions of Napa
Valley are prone to flooding.

Agenda Item #5.1.

9-4 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
in this reach. Consequently, the increased volume of sediment currently stored in the channel decreases the volume available for floodwater, potentially causing an increased flood hazard locally and within the City of St. Helena. Further study needs to be done of the Sulphur Creek area in order to prevent future flooding and to protect habitat for steelhead and salmon.

Recently, the City collaborated with the Napa County Board of Supervisors and the Napa County Flood Control District to study the Napa River’s hydraulics between Deer Park Road and Pope Street. The resulting study identified the need for an extension of the 100-year floodplain beyond the areas previously identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Figure 9.1 identifies areas that fall within the City’s 100-year (one percent) and 500-year (0.2 percent) floodplain; as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 2018. Figure 9.2 includes areas in and around St. Helena that would be inundated in the case of dam failure.

COMPREHENSIVE FLOOD CONTROL AND RIVER RESTORATION
In 2011, the City completed a Comprehensive Flood Control and River Restoration Project north of the Pope Street bridge and on the west side of the Napa River.

The purpose of this project was to protect residential property in the floodplain from the 100-year storm events and restoring the Napa River and its surrounding habitat. The project is designed to reduce flood risk to protect approximately 470 homes, including the Vineyard Valley Mobile Home Park and the Hunt’s Grove Apartment Complex, that were located in a FEMA-designated flood zone prior to completion of the project. The project site was about 36 acres. The project planning began in 2000, with actual construction starting in May 2009. Phase I of the project consisted of construction of a levee, along with a storm drain bypass and other related infrastructure improvements. Phase II, the final phase of the project, included construction of a floodwall that is roughly eight feet high where it is anchored to the levee. The floodwall gradually reduces in height as it continues south along the Napa River to the confluence of the river and Sulphur Creek. It then turns to the west and continues along Sulphur Creek, terminating at Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-5
9 public health, safety, and noise
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Conn Creek
Napa River
Sulpher Creek
York Creek
Canon Creek
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; FEMA, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 9.1
Flood Zones
Railroads
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Floodway
100-Year Flood Zone (1%
Annual Chance Flood Hazard)
500-Year Flood Zone (0.2%
Annual Chance Flood Hazard)
Reduced Risk Areas due to
Levee
Agenda Item #5.1.

9-6 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
ÛÚ
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Conn Creek
Napa River
Sulpher Creek
York Creek
Canon Creek
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
Figure 9.2
Dam Failure Inundation Areas
Railroads
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
ÛÚ St. Helena Lower Dam
Dam Inundation Areas
Bell Canyon Dam
St Helena Lower Dam
St Helena Upper Dam
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-7
9 public health, safety, and noise
Paseo Grand Avenue. The wall is about three and a half feet high at its terminus.

The total project cost was about $32 million, with the cost of construction at about $9.1 million.

To balance the removal of land from the floodplain, the area known as “lower terrace B” was cut down significantly and widened to accommodate the large flood flows. In Phase II, this terrace was cut down to the level of the Napa River and is designed to carry significant amounts of flood water, should it become necessary.

The second half of this $9.1 million project is the continuation of the flood wall around Vineyard Valley and habitat restoration in the “upper terrace B.” The habitat restoration was a critical element of the overall plan and included the installation 40,000 plantings and anchoring fallen trees into the terrace. This project also included maintenance conducted according to a maintenance plan, irrigation, and development of a pedestrian interpretive trail.

St. Helena has developed an Operations and Maintenance Manual for the Comprehensive Flood Control and River Restoration Project, which describes the extent of the project and outlines operation and maintenance activities that the City and Napa County Flood Control District will work together to manage. The manual describes project features, routine monitoring and maintenance activities, pump station operation, emergency operations, surveillance, personnel training, utility coordination and design.

GEOLOGIC AND SEISMIC HAZARDS
Although St. Helena is located in a seismically active region, there are no known active faults located in the city (see Figure 9.3). Faults are commonly considered to be active or likely to have another earthquake sometime in the future, if they have moved one or more times in the past 10,000 years. The California Geological Survey, the primary source of geologic information used for decision-making by California’s government agencies, designates Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones around the surface traces of active faults in the state and provides maps In August 2014, a 6.0
earthquake struck the Napa
Valley, with the epicenter of
the quake approximately 6
miles southwest of the City
of Napa. While damage from
the quake was substantial in
Napa, particularly in Napa’s
downtown area, St. Helena
experienced very little to no
measurable damage.

Agenda Item #5.1.

9-8 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
Bloomfield fault
West Napa fault
Cedar Roughs Fault
Hunting Creek-Berryessa Fault System
Franz Valley thrust
Alexander-Redwood Hill fault zone
Maacama fault zone Rodgers Creek fault
Green Valley fault
Healdsburg fault
Rodgers Creek fault
West Napa fault
Green Valley fault
Soda Creek fault
Maacama fault zone
Bennett Valley fault zone
Tolay fault
Tolay fault
Geyser Peak Fault Zone
Knights Valley Fault Zone
Petrified Forest thurst fault
Santa
Rosa
Napa
Petaluma
Windsor
Green
Valley
Angwin
Deer Park
St. Helena
Rohnert
Park
Sonoma
Cotati
Calistoga
Middletown
Temelec
Glen Ellen
Fairfield
Yountville
El Verano
Roseland
Sebastopol
Eldridge
Boyes Hot
Springs
Lake Berryessa
Lake
Hennessey
£¤101
UV12 UV12 UV29
UV121
UV128
UV128
UV29
UV128
UV75
UV12
UV116
UV116
NAPA
COUNTY
SONOMA
COUNTY
LAKE

COUNTY YOLO
COUNTY
SOLANO
COUNTY
MARIN
COUNTY
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; USGS and CGS, Quarternary Fault and Fold Database for the U.S., 2006; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 2 4 8
Miles

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 9.3
Regional Faults
County Boundary
Waterbodies
City of St. Helena
Study Areas
Urban Areas
Freeway/Major Highway
Major/Minor Roads
Railroads
Geologic Features
Historic (<150 years)
Latest Quaternary (<15,000 years)
Late Quaternary (<130,000 years)
Undifferentiated Quaternary (<1.6 million years)
Alquist Priolo Fault Zones
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-9
9 public health, safety, and noise
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Conn Creek
Napa River
Sulpher Creek
York Creek
Canon Creek
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 9.4
Liquefaction Susceptibility
Railroads
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Very High
High
Medium
Low
Very Low
Water
Agenda Item #5.1.

Caption.
9-10 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Conn Creek
Napa River
Sulpher Creek
York Creek
Canon Creek
Data Source: USGS, provided by Assocation of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) Resilience Program; 1997, City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 9.5
Landslide Susceptibility
Railroads
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Existing Landslide Distribution
Mostly Landslide
Few Landslides
Mostly Landslides - Consists of mapped landslides, intervening areas typically narrower than 1500 feet, and narrow borders around landslides; defined by drawing envelopes around
groups of mapped landslides.

Few Landslides - contains few, if any, large mapped landslides, but locally contains scattered small landslides and
questionably identified larger landslides; defined by drawing envelopes around areas free of mapped landslides.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-11
9 public health, safety, and noise
for use in planning and controlling new or renewed construction so as to minimize associated risks. According to the most recent maps the nearest active faults to St. Helena are the West Napa Fault, located 14 miles to the south, and the Rodgers Creek Fault, located 13 miles to the west. Additionally, a number of unnamed, relatively small, older faults are located at the base of the Sonoma and Vaca mountains along the margins of the Napa Valley; however, based on available information, displacement of these faults occurred more than 10,000 years ago and as such these faults are not considered active.

Overall, the fault rupture hazard for the city is considered to be low, and the primary geologic hazards of concern are those that could result from excessive shaking effects stemming from earthquakes elsewhere in the region. For instance, a large earthquake event in the area could result in liquefaction in the city’s low-lying areas (see Figure 9.4), and landslides and debris flow in areas with sloped, hilly terrain (see Figure 9.5). Development in the city’s upland areas has often required the removal of trees and vegetation, leaving some hillsides susceptible to erosion and landslides during heavy rains. Actions available to the City to protect areas of the community at greatest risk and minimize the risks of injury and property damage include restricting development in the hillside areas and requiring prompt re-vegetation on slopes prone to instability. The use of best management practices during construction can also limit erosion and the risk of landslides. Employing earthquake engineering strategies in the design of buildings and structures, such as installation of earthquake drains or use of low mobility grouting and dynamic compaction during construction, can limit risks associated with liquefaction.

Agenda Item #5.1.

9-12 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
Air pollution from auto
exhaust and dust, can pose
health hazards among
sensitive populations.

AIR POLLUTION AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Mitigating the public health and safety risks caused by air pollution and hazardous materials will inevitably require changing human behavior. Air pollution resulting from auto exhaust, tobacco smoke, and fugitive dust creates unhealthy air conditions for residents and can pose a particular threat to sensitive populations, such as children and older adults. Implementing measures to reduce auto trips, tobacco smoke exposure, and construction-related fugitive dust can help St.

Helena reduce residents’ contact with air pollution. Compact development patterns, facilities to encourage walking and biking, and incentives to reduce automobile trips are just a handful of ways that St. Helena can help improve local air quality.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) is the public agency responsible for regulating stationary sources of air pollution in Napa County and the San Francisco Bay Area. BAAQMD monitors air quality in the nine-county Bay Area and reports annually on pollutant concentrations for comparison to State and federal health-based ambient air quality standards. Data indicates that in the Bay Area, as throughout the state, the transportation sector and mobile sources of emissions are the most significant sources of air pollution. Senate Bill (SB) 375, approved by the Governor on September 30, 2008, seeks to reduce greenhouse Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-13
9 public health, safety, and noise
gas emissions—and, consequently, other pollutants—from mobile sources by integrating land use and transportation planning at the regional level. (For a more detailed discussion of SB 375 and related opportunities see the Climate Change Element.)
Hazardous materials used by local businesses are often transported on the City’s roadways and found present in smaller quantities in private homes in the form of solvents, cleaning fluids, and other substances. Implementing policies to improve the safe use, transport, and disposal of these materials can be instrumental in avoiding environmental contamination and human health impacts.

NOISE
Noise is a sound which is unhealthy or unwanted. It can be a human-caused public health hazard which includes excessive, intrusive, or objectionable noises that disrupt daily life. Noise has been tied to physiological effects ranging from hearing loss, high blood pressure, and sleep disturbance, to communication interference and general interruption and annoyance of normal daily activities.

Definitions of acoustical terms used in this discussion are listed in Table 9.1.

Land uses have different levels of compatibility relative to noise, and the State of California mandates that general plans include noise level compatibility standards for the development of land as a function of a range of noise exposure values (see Table 9.2). Table 9-3 identifies interior noise standards.

The ambient noise environment throughout much of St. Helena is extremely quiet in comparison to typical urbanized settings, especially in the evenings and at nighttime. With the exception of Main Street (State Route 29) and major collector roadways, the noise environment can be characterized as being that of a quiet rural setting. Residential areas are generally shielded from traffic noise on highways, arterials, and collectors and register very low background sound levels.

Sleep disturbance and the annoyance of sound not only depend on the absolute sound level of a noise source but are related to the magnitude of the noise above that of background sound levels. This means that in particularly quiet rural environments, the control of extraneous, intrusive, and annoying noise sources is Agenda Item #5.1.

9-14 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
TABLE 9.1: Definition of Acoustical Terms
Term Definition
Decibel, dB A unit describing the amplitude of sound. Equal to 10 times the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of two like quantities.

Sound Pressure Level
(SPL)
10 times the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio between the square of the sound to the square of the reference sound pressure of 20 μPascals. Sound pressure level is the quantity that is directly measured by a sound level meter and expressed in dB.

Frequency, Hz The number of complete pressure fluctuations per second above and below atmospheric pressure is expressed in Hertz (Hz). Normal human hearing is between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz.

A-Weighted Sound
Level, dBA
The SPL in decibels as measured on a sound level meter using the A-weighting filter network. The A-weighting filter de-emphasizes low frequency components of sound in a manner similar to the frequency response of the human ear and correlates well with subjective response to sound.

Noise Unwanted or unhealthful sound.

Equivalent Noise Level,
LAeq
The average A-weighted sound level during the measurement period. The A-weighted equivalent continuous sound level.

LAmax, LAmin The maximum and minimum A-weighted sound level during the measurement period with the sound meter using fast-time-weighting.

LA01, LA10, LA50, LA90 The A-weighted sound levels that are exceeded 1%, 10%, 50%, and 90% of the time during the measurement period.

Day/Night Noise Level,
Ldn
The average A-weighted sound level during a 24-hour day, obtained after the addition of 10 decibels to levels measured at night between 10:00 pm and 7:00 am.

Total Sound The composite of sound from all sources near and far.

Ambient Sound The sound level measured in the absence of an intrusive or extraneous noise.

Intrusive Noise
That noise from a source of specific origin which intrudes above the existing background sound level. The degree of intrusiveness of a sound depends upon its amplitude, duration, frequency, time of occurrence, and tonal or informational content as in contrast to the prevailing background sound level which exists in the absence of the intrusive noise.

Background Sound
Level
The LA90 of the ambient sound. It represents the ever present lower sound level due to distant sources which are individually indistinguishable, and in the absence of the Intrusive or Extraneous Noise.

Extraneous Noise
Specific or distinguishable intermittent sound from nearby sources such as mechanical devices, leaf blowers, pumps, horns, sirens, barking, shouting, birds, wind and other similar individual sources, which don’t normally exist on a continuous or regular basis.

Intermittent Noise A noncontinuous sound consisting of a number of clearly distinguishable sound events of varying frequency and/or intensity.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-15
9 public health, safety, and noise
TABLE 9.2: Noise Land Use Compatibility Guidelines
Land Use Category Completely
Compatible1
Tentatively
Compatible2
Normally
Incompatible3
Completely
Incompatible4
Residential < 55 dBA 55-60 dBA 60-75 dBA > 75 dBA
Commercial/ Office < 65 dBA 65-75 dBA 75-80 dBA > 80 dBA Industrial/ Agricultural < 70 dBA 70-80 dBA 80-85 dBA > 85 dBA School, libraries, churches, hospitals < 65 dBA 65-70 dBA 70-80 dBA > 80 dBA Playground, neighborhood park < 67 dBA 67-70 dBA 70-75 dBA > 75 dBA a Expressed as Ldn or CNEL.

1. Completely Compatible – Specified land use is satisfactory, based on the assumption that any buildings involved are or normal conventional construction.

2. Tentatively Compatible – New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and needed noise insulation features are included in the design. Conventional construction, but with closed windows and fresh air supply systems of air conditioning will normally suffice.

3. Normally Incompatible – New construction and development should generally be discourage. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must b made and needed noise insulation features included in the design.

4. Clearly Incompatible – New construction or development should generally not be undertaken.

TABLE 9.3: Maximum Interior Noise Level Criteria of Intermittent Noise for Public Use Facilities Land Use Maximum Intermittent
Noise Level LAmax Basis for Criterion
Concert Hall 25 Intrusion of noise may spoil artistic effect Theater 30 Intrusion of noise may spoil artistic effect School Auditorium 35 Minimize intrusion into artistic performance School Classroom 55 Speech communication-20 ft.-raised voice School Laboratory 60 Speech communication-6 ft.-normal voice Church/Sanctuaries 45 Speech communication-50 ft.-raised voice Library 55 Speech communication-3 ft.-normal voice
Source: Adapted from Table 2 in “Night Insulation Problems in Buildings,” Paul S. Veneklasen & Associates, 1973; Noise Element of the Napa County General Plan, 1982.

Agenda Item #5.1.

9-16 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
important to maintaining the public health and a quality living sound environment expected by the community. Typically, a change in noise levels of less than 3 dBA is not discernable to the general population. Increases in average noise levels from 3 to 5 dBA are clearly discernable to most people and increases in average noise levels of more than 5 dBA are common considered to constitute a significant environmental impact in many California communities.

Vehicular traffic on Highway 29 and collector streets is the primary source of noise in the community. Other non-stationary sources which are intermittent and generally inconsequential to the noise environment include flyover commercial aircraft at high altitudes, and small general aviation and helicopter flyovers. The Wine Train travels to St. Helena each day and emits a loud horn at crossings, along with the low frequency rumble of the diesel engines. Typical stationary noise sources in St. Helena include agricultural and industrial activities. Agricultural activities result in noise from wind machines, tractors, and sulphur blowers which are employed in the spring in the early hours of the morning. The St. Helena Fire Department has sirens at two locations which sound on average two to three times per day, with approximately half of them occurring during nighttime hours.

Noise contours as of 2018 are seen in Figure 9.6.

Noise concerns in St. Helena are principally linked to land use compatibility.

Concerns relate to adverse noise effects from new commercial development on surrounding noise-sensitive uses such as residences and schools, and also to adverse noise effects from agricultural activities within the city limit. Right-tofarm provisions necessitate accommodating agricultural uses while also seeking to minimize conflicts. To address these concerns and to promote a compatible noise environment throughout the city, Table 9.4 establishes limits on intrusive noise and regulates the amount of noise a specific sound source can emit relative to the typically low residential background sound levels. This standard is specific to residential areas within St. Helena. Additionally, by generally promoting good neighbor practices and facilitating open communication between agricultural, commercial, and residential uses the City can help to foster a healthy noise environment. Noise contours projected for 2040 as a result of the General Plan are shown in Figure 9.7.

Human-caused public health
hazards include excessive,
intrusive or objectionable
ambient noises that disrupt
daily life.

Agenda Item #5.1.

Caption.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-17
9 public health, safety, and noise
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
DNL 55 - 60 dB
DNL 60 - 65 dB
DNL 65 - 70 dB
DNL 70 - 75 dB
DNL 75 - 80 dB
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
Data Source: Charles M. Salter Associates, Inc, 2018; City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County,2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 Figure 9.6
Existing Noise Contours (2018)
Agenda Item #5.1.

9-18 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
TABLE 9.4: Standard and Adjustments for Determining Noise Impact of Intrusive Noise for Residential Receptors

STANDARD
The LAeq of an intrusive noise shall not exceed the following values:
• 7 am – 7 pm (daytime) 45 dBA
• 7 pm – 10 pm (evening) 40 dBA
• 10 pm – 7 am (nighttime) 35 dBA
Or shall not exceed LA90 + 5 dBA whichever is greater. The background sound level LA90 must be measured for a minimum of 10 minutes in the absence of the intrusive noise at the appropriate time of noise impact.

The maximum noise level LAmax of any intrusive noise shall not exceed the LAeq limits by more than 10 dBA.

The limits for intrusive noise are to be corrected as indicated below.

These noise limits apply to the nearest residential property line or at the nearest affected location on the receiver’s property.

CORRECTIONS FOR INTRUSIVE NOISE
Type of Correction Circumstances of Correction Correctiona Seasonal
Summer or year round operation 0 dBA
December through March only + 5 dBA
Tone or Impulse No tonal or impulse character 0 dBA
Characteristics
Tonal characterb
present in noise - 5 dBA
Impulsivec
, repetitious or modulatingd signal - 5 dBAe
Notes:
a Correction to be applied to the Standard’s limits for intrusive noise. b Tonality exists when the 1/3 octave noise level of the tone is 5 dB greater than the average level of the two adjacent 1/3 octave frequency bands. c Transient sound having a peak level of short duration typically less than 100 msec. d Either in amplitude, frequency or duration including compressor “hammering” noise. e In addition to correction for tonality.

Agenda Item #5.1.

Caption.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-19
9 public health, safety, and noise
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
DNL 55 - 60 dB
DNL 60 - 65 dB
DNL 65 - 70 dB
DBL 70 - 75 dB
DNL 75 - 80 dB
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
Data Source: Charles M. Salter Associates, Inc, 2018; City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County,2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 Figure 9.7
Projected Noise Contours (2040)
Agenda Item #5.1.

9-20 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
St. Helena’s fire and police
departments respond to structural
fires, wildfires and other disasters.

FIRE
Key human-caused public health and safety hazards affecting St. Helena include structural fires, wildfires, and other disasters that require advanced planning.

Overall, in the urbanized portion of St. Helena within the city limit, the risk of wildfire is moderate to low; however, areas of the city in the hilly terrain along the western perimeter of the city and east of the Napa River are classified as having high or very high fire threat by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) (see Figure 9.8).

Fires occurring in the heavily-wooded hillside areas can be difficult for firefighters to address due to traffic congestion on City streets, particularly when emergency vehicles must travel on or across State Route 29. Furthermore, traffic congestion can pose important challenges to St. Helena’s collaboration with neighboring municipalities and agencies seeking to establish and implement regionally coordinated disaster planning for police, fire, and emergency medical services.

The City can work with local, regional, and state agencies to address key trafficrelated concerns on State Route 29 and County roads to ensure that adequate levels of fire protection are maintained, particularly on hillsides and in fire-prone Agenda Item #5.1.

Caption.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-21
9 public health, safety, and noise
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Crane
Park
Wappo
Park
Jacob
Meily
Park
Lyman
Park
Fire Threat Level (Cal Fire)
Extreme Threat
Very High Threat
High Threat
Moderate Threat
Little or No Threat
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Data Source: Fire Threat, Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), Cal Fire, 2005; City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County,2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000
Feet
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
Figure 9.8
Wild Fire Threat
Agenda Item #5.1.

9-22 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise
areas, and to support regional collaboration for disaster preparedness. This ability to coordinate fire response is especially critical in the current drought conditions facing the region and the State.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-23
9 public health, safety, and noise
FEMA oversees hazard mitigation plans.

Hazard Mitigation Planning
Hazard mitigation is defined by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as
“sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate
long-term risk to people and their property from
hazards.” The goal of hazard mitigation is to ensure
long-term resilience against natural and humancaused hazards.

Mitigation Plans form the foundation for a
community’s long-term strategy to reduce disaster
losses and break the cycle of disaster damage,
reconstruction and repeated damage.

As a condition for receiving certain types of nonemergency disaster assistance, State, Tribal, and local governments are required to develop a hazard
mitigation plan. Napa County, in cooperation with
the cities of St. Helena, Napa, American Canyon,
Yountville, and special districts, prepared a Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in 2007. The
Napa County LHMP sets forth goals, mitigation
strategies and mitigation action items for flooding,
earthquakes, wildland fire interfaces and terrorism
and technological hazards. Working together, local
communities and jurisdictions in Napa County can
reduce the long-term risks associated with natural
and human-caused hazards. The Public Health,
Safety and Noise Element is St. Helena’s primary
policy tool for ensuring local action and St. Helena’s
involvement in implementing regional hazard
mitigation strategies.

CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS
Agenda Item #5.1.

9-24 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
9 public health, safety, and noise

9.3 Key Findings
There are several challenges and opportunities facing St. Helena related to public health, safety, and noise. The following key findings are based upon comprehensive existing conditions analysis and community input.

Flooding
• Flooding in Napa County generally occurs within the low-lying Napa Valley floor. Between 1961 and 1997, flooding resulted in approximately $540 million in property damages. St. Helena experienced major flood events in 1986, 1995, and 2005 that caused an estimated combined total of $95.6 million in damages in the city. Most flooding occurred in the vicinity of Vineyard Valley from Fulton Lane to Pope Street.
• The flood history of York Creek suggests that the creek bed is not of adequate size to convey larger storm events. During the 2005 New Year’s Eve storm event, flooding from York Creek significantly impacted residential and industrial properties. The Beringer water treatment plant flooded and ponds overflowed into the creek. In addition, the creek flooded vineyards on both sides of its corridor, downstream of State Route 29 to the Napa River. • Until 2002, an aggregate mining operation, now discontinued, removed approximately 40,000 to 50,000 cubic yards of material from Sulphur Creek annually. Further study is needed to determine how aggregate buildup at Sulphur Creek may affect flooding issues in the area.
• Completed in June 2011, the City of St. Helena Comprehensive Flood Control and Environmental Restoration Project provides a minimum 100-year level of flood protection within the project and surrounding area of St. Helena. Design of the project was done on the basis of a Napa River Flood Model Study from Zinfandel Lane to Lodi Lane completed jointly by the City of St. Helena and the Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District with Measure A funding. The individual elements of the project include floodplain terracing, shoreline restoration, a new levee, floodwall and bank stabilization, and stormwater management features including a detention basin and pumping facility.

The project protects hundreds of homes and is projected to save millions of dollars in flood insurance claims.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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9 public health, safety, and noise
• Portions of St. Helena’s residential, commercial and winery industrial areas are located within or near the 100-year floodplain. Requiring infrastructure and drainage plans to minimize risk in these areas, in compliance with State and federal requirements, at a minimum, can promote the safety of residents and businesses. Moreover, restricting new development within the FEMAdesignated floodplain and prohibiting development in the floodway can minimize additional flood hazards and the need for further mitigation measures.

Seismic and Geologic Activity
• St. Helena is located in a seismically-active region, with seismic activity primarily related to movements in the San Andreas Fault Zone (SAFZ). Although there are a number of active faults in the region, there are no known active faults in St. Helena.
• Local earthquake hazard mapping suggests that a magnitude 7.9 or greater earthquake on the San Andreas Fault, or a 6.5 magnitude event on the West Napa Fault, could result in strong shaking in the city. As a result, St. Helena’s susceptibility to liquefaction ranges from low in the upland areas west of downtown, to very high along the Napa River. United States Geological Survey (USGS) maps indicate that slope stability and landslide issues exist in St. Helena’s upland areas, and a major earthquake event could result in significant debris flow. As noted previously, the recent August 2014 earthquake had a magnitude of 6.0, which resulted in no measurable soil liquefaction within the City of St. Helena.
• By limiting the type and scale of new development in hillside areas, or areas subject to liquefaction, the City can limit the potential for property damage and loss of life as a result of major seismic activity. In addition, complying with the Universal Building Code (UBC) and adopting other standards for building safety along with emergency response disaster planning will help minimize the impacts of seismic and geologic disasters.

Air Pollution and Hazardous Materials
• The greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the City of St. Helena is the Transportation sector, which comprises 59 percent of total emissions according to a 2018 inventory compiled for the General Plan update. The transportation sector is also the largest generator of air pollution emissions Agenda Item #5.1.

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9 public health, safety, and noise
in the County, with mobile sources – automobiles and trucks – providing the greatest level of emissions. A 2007 Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) GHG inventory indicated that approximately 56 percent of GHG emissions in Napa County resulted from mobile source emissions. Mobile emissions are a significant source of other pollutants, as well, including carbon monoxide and particulate matter.
• The development of a Climate Change Element for the St. Helena General Plan is an important step forward in contributing to the effort to improve regional and local air quality. Napa County’s Communitywide Climate Action Plan and the Climate Change Element provide a strategic policy framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce air pollution derived from its multiple sources.
• CalEnviroScreen have shown that people living in agricultural areas of California have higher amounts of pesticides in their bodies than other people, which can result in adverse health outcomes. Based on data compiled by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), census tracts in St. Helena are in the top quartile in terms of pounds of pesticide per square mile in the state for the years 2012-2014. The Napa County Agricultural Commissioner is responsible for ensuring the safe use of pesticides in all settings in the county. The County runs a Pesticide Use Enforcement program to educate pesticide users of their legal responsibilities and conduct inspections and investigations to ensure the safety of workers, the public, and the environment. Compliance and enforcement activities are complemented with extensive training and outreach to help growers and employees ensure safe handling and use of pesticides.

Noise
• The primary source of noise in the community stems from motor vehicle traffic and commercial activity, particularly in areas near major roads, such as State Route 29. Mitigating traffic noise can be difficult, particularly the noise generated along State Route 29 throughout the day and night. However, the City can adopt noise standards to address more infrequent noise sources, such as those related to off-hours delivery, and commercial loading and unloading. • While there are few industrial noise sources in St. Helena, passing trains and aircraft generate intrusive noise periodically in the community.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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9 public health, safety, and noise
• Agricultural operations generate noise on a seasonal basis; however, local right-to-farm policies limit the City’s power to regulate noise impacts.

Encouraging the regular communication of planned agricultural activities to surrounding residents can help address potential conflicts relating to noise compatibility. In addition, adopting noise compatibility standards for sensitive land uses can help to minimize the impacts of intrusive noise sources.

Fire and Emergency Response
• St. Helena’s paid per call fire department, supported by two permanent staff members (hired in Summer 2018), provides fire protection services for wildland and structural fires within the city limits and in unincorporated areas of Napa County. Although service levels within the city are generally adequate, the heavily-wooded and frequently dry hillside areas could create significant challenges for firefighters.
• By limiting the type and scale of new development in hillside areas, and requiring sufficient road widths and turning radii to accommodate emergency response vehicles, the City can limit the potential for property damage and loss of life due to fires.
• Traffic congestion can adversely impact emergency response time in St.

Helena, particularly when emergency vehicles must cross State Route 29. The City can work with emergency response providers to create solutions that address traffic-related emergency response challenges.

Emergency response is an
important part of protecting
residents and businesses.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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9.4 Goals
The goals of the Public Health, Safety and Noise Element are:

Maintain High Levels of Public Health and Safety.

St. Helena is committed to maintaining high standards of public health and safety through anticipation of and preparation for potential natural and humancaused hazards.

Effectively Coordinate Responses to Emergencies and Natural Disasters.

St. Helena is dedicated to protecting residents, businesses, and the environment through efficient local emergency response efforts, public education, and effective coordination with regional, State, and federal agencies.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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9 public health, safety, and noise public health, safety, and noise

9.5 Policies and Implementing Actions
A range of policies and implementing actions are outlined below and organized into the following topic areas:

1. Air Quality;

2. Noise;

3. Seismic and Geologic Hazards;

4. Fire and Hazardous Materials;

5. Flood Hazards; and

6. Disaster Planning.

The following policies and actions mandate, encourage, or allow certain initiatives to be pursued throughout the duration of the General Plan. Together, they serve as strategic directions for City staff and partners, highlighting where time and resources should be focused.

Policies and actions are set to
protect the community against
flood hazards.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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1 AIR QUALITY
Policies
PS1.1 Achieve and maintain clean, healthy air for the residents of St. Helena to preserve environmental quality and community health.

PS1.2 Support regional efforts to achieve and maintain state ambient concentration standards to protect public health, reduce adverse industrial plant effects, and enhance the visual environment. In particular, provide local support for implementation of policies and measures set forth in the Napa County Congestion Management Program.

PS1.3 Encourage effective regulation of those sources of air pollution, both inside and outside of St. Helena, which affect air quality, by implementing as many of the recommendations of the Napa County Congestion Management Plan as is feasible.

PS1.4 Promote an optimized land use development pattern that minimizes cumulative air quality impacts from proposed developments.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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1 AIR QUALITY
Implementing Actions
PS1.A Minimize local adverse air quality impacts related to construction by requiring dust abatement procedures for local projects.

PS1.B Mandate the use of EPA-approved wood stoves or fireplace inserts, rather than fireplaces, as a means of reducing emissions into the air.

PS1.C Review project proposals for their potential to generate hazardous air pollutants.

PS1.D Develop guidelines for locating new sensitive uses, including residences, schools, and childcare facilities, away from air pollutant sources. The guidelines can include measures to mitigate air emissions from existing sources, as well as to design buildings to prevent exposure.

PS1.E Encourage and support regional efforts to use alternative modes of transportation.

PS1.F Consider a citywide network to help commuters arrange carpools, including online coordination capabilities and designated areas for parking and pick-up.

PS1.G Adopt the thresholds of significance contained in the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) Guidelines for Assessing the Impacts of Projects and Plans for determining the significance of project impacts under the California Environmental Quality Act.

PS1.H Continue to implement an ordinance to restrict exposure to environmental tobacco smoke in new and existing multi-unit dwellings, public events, and outdoor areas, such as parks and playgrounds.

Air quality can be improved
by implementing the
Napa County Congestion
Management Plan.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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1 AIR QUALITY
PS1.I Adopt a voluntary, employer-based transportation demand management (TDM) program for St. Helena businesses in compliance with the BAAQMD’s 2017 Clean Air Plan (CAP). Components of a TDM program should include measures to reduce the use of single-occupancy vehicles for work-related commuting, such as carpool/vanpool matching services and employer-sponsored transit passes.

PS1.J The potential for sources of odors that includes restaurants, auto body shops, or waste treatment facilities shall be considered when evaluating proposed residential projects and projects with sensitive recipients.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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2 NOISE
Policies
PS2.1 Preserve the current low levels of noise in St. Helena to maintain the City’s rural atmosphere.

PS2.2 Maintain a citywide environment that balances various City objectives while minimizing the impact of highway, railroad, and industrial noise. The City should manage both indoor and outdoor noise levels to protect health and safety. A combination of noise standards and existing noise levels should be used to determine impacts and mitigation measures.

PS2.3 Minimize potential noise impact conflicts between land uses by regulating incompatible land uses. Encourage noise-generating uses to reduce their impacts while promoting land use patterns that avoid conflicts. Employ compatibility guidelines, interior noise level criteria, the City’s noise standards, and noise contour maps to determine the compatibility of land uses.

PS2.4 Require a reduction and/or control of the use of machinery, mechanical systems and other noise-making equipment and sources in and near residential areas where the noise impacts would be considered intrusive to adjacent residential property, unless consistent with the right-to-farm.

PS2.5 An increase in average noise levels of 5 dBA or greater is considered to be significant and to constitute a noise impact by the noise source in question for the purpose of environmental analyses.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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2 NOISE
Implementing Actions
PS2.A Consider the environmental impact of transportation-related noise and other noise sources in the review of any new projects and approval of subdivision plans and requests for changes in the zoning ordinance.

PS2.B Enforce the Land Use Compatibility Standards presented in the State of California’s General Plan guidelines when siting new uses. These standards identify the acceptability of a project based on levels of noise exposure.

PS2.C Adopt and enforce Title 24 Standards for all types of new residential construction, including single family dwellings, duplexes, apartments, and dormitories.
• An interior maximum noise level of LAdn-45 dBA in all habitable rooms for all dwelling units;
• A maximum allowable interior noise level for bedrooms of an hourly LAeq-35 dBA;
• A maximum noise level of LAdn-60 dBA for residential exterior activity areas; • If interior noise standards are met by requiring windows to be closed, cooling and outside air exchange must also be provided in the building’s design.

PS2.D Require an acoustical study, prepared by a qualified acoustical consultant for:
• All proposed projects that are likely to be exposed to noise levels greater than the standards;
• All proposed projects that would generate noise where impacts on other uses would be greater than the standards;
• Any project exposed to outdoor noise at or above a day-night average sound level (Ldn) of 60 or for any noise source that could create such outdoor noise levels for adjacent uses; and
• Any project exposed to or that creates noise which may exceed the adopted City standards.

PS2.E Require new developments to implement noise mitigation measures when built in close proximity to noise sources, such as State Route 29 and the Noise can be mitigated by
minimizing conflicts between
land uses by regulating incompatible land uses.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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9 public health, safety, and noise
railroad tracks. These developments should consider the exterior and interior noise environment.

PS2.F Require construction operations to use noise suppression devices and techniques and limit noisy construction activities that can be heard at the property line to the least noise-sensitive times, as per the City’s noise ordinance.

PS2.G Include appropriate noise attenuation techniques in the design of all new arterial streets. Such techniques could include the use of site planning, building orientation, buffer distances, quiet pavement surfaces, and the use of correctlyengineered acoustical barriers and berms where necessary. Adopt the noise standard for intrusive noise at residences given in Table 9.4.

PS2.H Amend the City’s noise ordinance to regulate intrusive noise sources, such as the use of machinery and equipment, landscaping and property maintenance devices, animals, and idling buses or trucks in or near uses sensitive to noise.

PS2.I Incorporate right-to-farm legal provisions relative to noise in all newlycreated deeds where agricultural activities may pose noise impacts in the future.

Require similar language in deeds for properties similarly impacted by the Harold Smith & Son gravel plant operations.
2 NOISE
Agenda Item #5.1.

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3 SEISMIC AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
Policies
PS3.1 Minimize risk of injury, loss of life and property damage from seismicallyinduced and other known geologic hazards.

PS3.2 Restrict the intensity of development and the level of landform alteration in the hillside areas in order to minimize the potential for slope failure.

PS3.3 The required soils and geologic reports for new development shall include geotechnical analysis for construction in areas with potential geological hazards and/or for purposes of environmental analysis. The analysis shall investigate all potential geo-hazard issues for the site where there is substantial evidence of a potential risk.

PS3.4 Geologic reports for new development shall describe hazards and include mitigation measures to reduce risks to acceptable levels. Where appropriate, an engineer’s or geologist’s certification shall be required stating that risks have been mitigated to an acceptable level.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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3 SEISMIC AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
Implementing Actions
PS3.A Require a soils and geologic report to be submitted for new construction prior to the issuance of grading and building permits and the submission of final maps.

PS3.B Prohibit any development—including any land alteration, grading for roads, and structural development—in areas of slope instability or other geologic concerns until mitigating measures are taken to limit potential damage to levels of acceptable risk.

PS3.C Require prompt re-vegetation of development areas on slopes prone to instability. Use native and drought-tolerant plant species for landscaping on slopes where excess watering might induce landslides and/or erosion.

PS3.D The City shall rely upon the most current and comprehensive geological hazard mapping available in the evaluation of potential seismic hazards associated with proposed new development.

PS3.E All development and construction proposals shall be reviewed by the City to ensure conformance to applicable building standards. Recommendations of the geotechnical analysis shall be implemented.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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Policies
PS4.1 Use the Zoning Code to define a transitional zone around industrial areas to protect the health and safety of residential neighborhoods.

PS4.2 Limit development in areas of High and Very High wildfire hazard as defined and mapped by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention (CalFire) in order to prevent the loss of lives, injuries, and property damage due to wildfires.

PS4.3 Protect St. Helena residents from health and safety impacts related to the use, storage, manufacture, and
transport of hazardous materials.

PS4.4 Discourage new uses that rely extensively on the
use of hazardous materials.

PS4.5 Facilitate communication and education about fire safety, non-point source pollution, household hazardous waste disposal, and recycling opportunities.

PS4.6 Ensure that all streets and roads are adequate
in terms of width, turning radius, and grade in order
to facilitate access by City firefighting apparatus, and to provide alternative emergency routes of ingress and egress.
4 FIRE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
The transitional zone around
industrial areas protects the
health and safety of residential
neighborhoods.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 9-39
9 public health, safety, and noise
Implementing Actions
PS4.A Designate areas in St. Helena that are prone to fire hazards and make this information available to the community.

PS4.B Continue to require implementation of best practices in fire resistance for all new and remodeled structures in fire-prone areas, including fire fuel removal, creation of defensible space for firefighters, construction with fire-resistant building materials, and installation of automatic sprinkler systems. Study the need to designate a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area within St. Helena to provide protection in additional areas.

PS4.C Require all structures in high wildfire hazard areas to maintain a clearance of flammable vegetation away from structures and to use fire-resistant ground covers. The minimum clearance distance should be 30 feet.

PS4.D Require all new development to meet the minimum fire flow rates specified by the City’s Fire Code.

PS4.E Require all new development plans to be approved by the Fire Department prior to the issuance of building permits, grading permits, or final map approval.

PS4.F Develop a program to inform and educate the community about potential risks, resources, and roles and responsibilities for addressing fire safety in St.

Helena. Inform residents of homes adjacent to public lands of their responsibility to provide fire breaks adjacent to their homes.
4 FIRE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Agenda Item #5.1.

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4 FIRE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
PS4.G Review all new development proposals for their potential to introduce the production, use, storage, and/or transport of hazardous materials, and require reasonable controls on such materials.

PS4.H Develop a Hazardous Materials Response Plan that includes guidelines, protocols, and strategies to respond to a local hazardous materials spill.

PS4.I Continue to require compliance with federal, State, and local regulations for the safe production, transport, handling, use, and disposal of hazardous materials that may cause air, water, or soil contamination. Require buffers for operations which handle substantial amounts of hazardous materials. When siting new facilities or expanding existing facilities, require buffer zones between hazardous materials facilities and residential uses, parkland, trails, and open space facilities.

PS4.J Develop and launch a citywide education campaign to encourage the use of green products in order to reduce non-point source pollution. Target efforts towards the reduction of household chemical use and hazardous waste disposal.

PS4.K Require environmental assessments during the planning for development in areas previously used for agricultural, commercial, or industrial uses. Remediation of identified contamination that may result in health risks to construction workers and future owners and users shall be required prior to approval of construction, demolition, and grading permits for development.

PS4.L Work with the Napa County Agricultural Commissioner and other responsible agencies to identify and enforce mechanisms to control residual pesticides and pesticide runoff to prevent significant risk to water quality, vegetation, wildlife, and humans.

PS4.F Develop a program to inform and educate the community about potential risks, resources, and roles and responsibilities for addressing fire safety in St.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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4 FIRE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Helena. Inform residents of homes adjacent to public lands of their responsibility to provide fire breaks adjacent to their homes.

PS4.G Review all new development proposals for their potential to introduce the production, use, storage and/or transport of hazardous materials, and require reasonable controls on such materials.

PS4.H Develop a Hazardous Materials Response Plan that includes guidelines, protocols, and strategies to respond to a local hazardous materials spill.

PS4.I Strengthen regulations for the safe production, transport, handling, use and disposal of hazardous materials that may cause air, water, or soil contamination. Require buffers for operations which handle substantial amounts of hazardous materials. When siting new facilities or expanding existing facilities, require buffer zones between hazardous materials facilities and residential uses, parkland, trails, and open space facilities.

PS4.J Develop and launch a citywide education campaign to encourage the use of green products in order to reduce non-point source pollution. Target efforts towards the reduction of household chemical use and hazardous waste disposal.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
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Policies
PS5.1 Minimize the risk to people, property and the environment caused by flooding hazards. Site new development to minimize potential damage from a 100-year flood. Continue to require that any new development is constructed FEMA standards. Prohibit the siting of uses within Flood Hazard Areas inconsistent with FEMA standards that could result in health and safety hazards, including those due to the release of chemicals or other substances as a result of inundation or erosion. Ensure that any new flood protection projects comply with federal and State standards.

PS5.2 Ensure that new development or existing lots of record within the 100- year floodplain are properly graded, sited, and constructed to mitigate flood effects and do not cause increases or expansion of the flood area that increase flood risk.

PS5.3 Within the 100-year floodplain, encourage open space uses, such as parks or natural areas.

PS5.4 Ensure that construction of flood barriers does not adversely affect natural floodplains, stream channels and natural barriers that help accommodate or channel flood waters.

PS5.5 Prohibit new development within areas designated as Floodway in the current FEMA Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). (Also see the Public Facilities and Services Element, Topic Area 3) PS5.6 Coordinate with the Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and other responsible agencies to maintain protocols and funding for the regular inspection and maintenance of flood control facilities in the city, including levees, floodwalls, floodplain terracing, stormwater detention ponds, and pumping facilities.
5 FLOOD HAZARDS
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
# TOPIC NAME
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topic area
9 public health, safety, and noise
5 FLOOD HAZARDS
PS5.7 Require that development within Special Flood Hazard Areas prepare and implement infrastructure and drainage plans compliant with State and federal requirements in order to minimize risk in these areas.

PS5.8 Locate new essential public facilities outside of Special Flood Hazard Areas, including hospitals and health care facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities. (Also see the Public Facilities and Services Element, Topic Area 3) Implementing Actions
PS5.A Coordinate with the Napa County Flood Control District to ensure that stream channels are routinely cleared of vegetation and debris which could impede stormwater flows, while protecting riparian habitat.

PS5.B Require developers with land
adjacent to the Napa River to construct or
contribute a fair share toward the construction
of necessary flood control improvements.

PS5.C Strengthen and enforce regulations
that prohibit the dumping of litter, fill, and
waste materials into creeks and waterways.

Educate the public about flooding and health
hazards associated with these activities.

PS5.D Require that sewer and water lines in
areas subject to flooding are sited to avoid
contamination and flooding when pipelines
break.

PS5.E Prohibit the introduction of urban development in FEMA-designated Floodway zones.

Coordination with the County
Flood Control District will
ensure that stream channels
are routinely cleared of
vegetation and debris.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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5 FLOOD HAZARDS
PS5.F Review Municipal Code Chapter 15.52, Flood Damage Prevention, to ensure that regulations reflect best practices. Periodically update the City’s flood hazard regulations in accordance with FEMA/NFIP regulations.

PS5.G Implement the requirements of FEMA relating to construction in Special Flood Hazards Areas as illustrated on Flood Insurance Rate Maps.

PS5.H Implement low impact development practices for new development and redevelopment projects to reduce stormwater peak flow rates and volumes from smaller, more frequently occuring storm events.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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6 DISASTER PLANNING
Policies
PS6.1 Ensure that City emergency procedures are adequate in the event of potential natural or man-made disasters.

Implementing Actions
PS6.A Maintain and periodically update the City’s Emergency Response Plan.

PS6.B Conduct periodic emergency response exercises to test the effectiveness of City emergency response procedures.

PS6.C Continue to collaborate with regional agencies and neighboring jurisdictions to develop and implement a regional emergency coordination plan and agreement for police, fire, and emergency medical services.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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Agenda Item #5.1.

climate change
chapter ten
Agenda Item #5.1.

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10 climate change
Community farmers markets
provide opportunities to
purchase locally-grown foods
close to home, reducing the
miles food travels to the table.

10.1 Purpose of the Element
The Climate Change Element presents a framework to help the City respond to and plan for climate change. It aims to effectively address energy and water conservation, renewable energy production, transportation, sustainable business development, and the responsible evolution of the City to reduce climate change impacts in St. Helena. The policies and actions included in this element seek to chart a course that meets St. Helena’s specific needs, aligning with the Napa Countywide Community Climate Action Plan Framework, which St. Helena participated in developing. The Climate Change Element includes the following sections:

The Climate Change Element:
• 10.2 Combating Climate Change in St. Helena. Describes key climate change issues in St. Helena (p. 10-3).
• 10.3 Key Findings. Identifies key findings based on an existing conditions analysis and extensive community outreach (p. 10-8).
• 10.4 Goals. Defines overarching goals to guide policies and implementing actions (p. 10-11).
1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and
services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety, and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture, and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-3
10 climate change
• 10.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to accomplish St. Helena’s climate change objectives (p. 10-13).

10.2 Combating Climate Change in St. Helena
Climate change refers to a change in the average global climate that may be measured by wind patterns, storms, precipitation, and temperature. The term climate change is often used interchangeably with the term global warming.

Global warming refers to an average increase in the temperature of the atmosphere near the Earth’s surface, which can contribute to changes in global climate patterns. However, rising temperatures are just one aspect of climate change.

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and regulate the earth’s temperature. This effect, known as the Greenhouse Effect, is responsible for maintaining a habitable climate. GHGs are released into the earth’s atmosphere through a variety of natural processes and human activities.

The current period of global warming is widely attributed to a buildup of GHG emissions from human-made sources that have proliferated and accelerated since the age of industrialization. Many scientists project that global temperatures will likely continue to increase in the future, raising broad concern about the effects of temperature change on the Earth’s climate. Potential risks include rising sea levels, changing precipitation patterns, expanding desertification, and increasing GHG emissions.

Although debate continues about how the United States should engage in the global climate change discussion, many state and local governments have adopted policies to address climate change concerns. By adopting this Climate Change Element, St. Helena can take steps to forward the global climate change agenda at the local level. Moreover, as climactic conditions shift in the coming decades – potentially requiring policy responses unknown today – St. Helena will be in a position to adapt to and accommodate new federal, State, and regional planning requirements as they arise.

Canopies of urban street
trees create shade and help
enhance quality of life while
mitigating the impact of the
built environment on natural
systems.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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10 climate change
St. Helena joined the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) in 2008. In coordination with ICLEI and the Climate Protection Campaign, the City developed the 2009 City of St. Helena Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Action Plan Analysis Final Report. In 2012, the City completed a GHG emissions inventory of City-controlled operations and activities. Available data indicate that in 2010, the City of St. Helena municipal operations emitted 3,506 metric tons of equivalent carbon dioxide (CO2e). Municipal GHG emissions varied by end-use sector, with water and wastewater operations and employee commutes generating the largest proportions of total emissions. The remainder of the City’s GHG emissions included City buildings, vehicle fleet, streetlights, water transport facilities, and government-generated solid waste disposal.

Figure 10.1 Government Operations Emissions by Sector, 2010 In addition to the 2005 and 2010 municipal inventories, ICLEI developed 2005 and 2010 community GHG inventories for the City of St. Helena. A community inventory accounts for emissions from all emissions sources, not just from those sources under direct municipal control. According to ICLEI’s modeling, St. Helena produced 43,831 metric tons of CO2e in 2005 and 44,008 metric tons of CO2e in 2010. In 2005, the largest sources of emissions were the Innovative systems can capture
and reuse rainwater and make use
of rooftop spaces for agriculture or
plantings.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-5
10 climate change
commercial/industrial sector (38 percent), residential (25 percent), and on-road transportation (22 percent). In 2010, commercial/industrial emissions remained the largest contributor of GHGs in St. Helena (35 percent), followed by on-road transportation (29 percent), and residential (25 percent) (ICLEI, 2012). Emissions were reduced in all sectors except the transportation sector, which increased 36 percent.

For the General Plan Update, an updated community GHG emissions inventory was compiled for the City of St. Helena using best available data and modeled for a baseline year of 2018. The inventory found that St. Helena’s baseline emissions totaled 76,012 MTCO2e. As shown in Table 10.1: 2018 GHG Emissions Summary by Sector (MTCO2e), the transportation sector was responsible for the largest source of emissions, generating
44,531 MTCO2e (59 percent).

Electricity and natural gas use
from the commercial/industrial
sector was the second largest
source of emissions, generating
approximately 12,773 MTCO2e (17
percent). Electricity and natural gas
consumption within the residential
sector was the third largest source
of emissions, generating 9,890
MTCO2e (13 percent).

In 2012, the City adopted a GHG
reduction target of 20 percent
below 2005 levels by the year
2020. This target is consistent
with the State’s goal to reduce
California emissions to 1990 levels
by the year 2020. In recent years,
the State has also set a reduction
TABLE 10.1: 2018 GHG Emissions Summary by Sector (MTCO2e) Sector
Annual GHG
Emissions (MTCO2e)
Percent of Total
Residential 9,890 13%
Commercial/Industrial 12,773 16.8%
Transportation 44,531 58.6%
Solid Waste 3,734 4.9%
Water Transport, Distribution, and
Treatment 138 0.2%
Wastewater 181 0.2%
Off-Road Equipment 4,631 6.1%
Public Lighting 37 >0.1%
Agriculture 97 0.1%
TOTAL 76,012 100%
Source: Dyett & Bhatia, 2017.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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CONCEPTS, TRENDS, AND IDEAS
Planning Regionally as a Solution to Climate Change
The single-largest source of greenhouse gases in California is emissions from passenger vehicles. This means that in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce
our contribution to climate change, California must revisit existing policies and the way communities are designed in order to reduce the number of vehicle miles traveled by the State’s residents, therefore reducing vehicle emissions.

In 2006, the Governor signed The Global Warming Solutions Act into law to do just that. Often referred to as Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), the Global Warming Solutions Act requires the State of California to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) to 1990 levels no later than 2020. In recent years, the State has also set a reduction goal of reducing GHG emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 (Executive Order S-3-05) and an interim target of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (Executive Order B-30-15). Additionally, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Scoping Plan, adopted in 2017, establishes per capita GHG emissions
targets of 4.0 metric tons of CO2e per capita by 2030 and

2.0 metric tons of CO2e per capita by 2050. These per capita targets are consistent with statewide reduction goals.

SB 375 takes AB 32 to the next step by requiring California’s regional land use and transportation authorities to work with local agencies to achieve more compact growth patterns, thereby reducing the quantity of greenhouse gases emitted by passenger vehicles.

Although many Californians can picture the longterm dire consequences of climate change, there are also many near-term dangers to the state’s wetlands
as changing weather patterns affect wildlife habitats
and life cycles.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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SB 375 has five key features:

1. It mandates that regional planning agencies establish regional targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions tied to land use, and therefore driving patterns.

2. It requires that regional planning agencies create a plan to meet those targets.

3. SB 375 requires that regional transportation funding decisions be consistent with this new plan.

4. It integrates regional transportation planning and housing allocation efforts for the first time.

5. It establishes new California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemptions and streamlining for development
projects that conform to the new regional plans.

The Sustainable Communities Strategy
SB 375 requires the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to establish GHG emission reduction targets related to
transportation for each Metropolitan Transportation
Organization (MTC) region by September 30, 2010. The
Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is the
designated MPO for Napa County and the greater Bay Area region.

Under SB 375, each MPO must then add a new element
to its long-range Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) called a “Sustainable Communities Strategy,” or SCS. The SCS
seeks to achieve the targeted reductions in greenhouse gas emissions if there is a feasible way to do so, planning for compact growth and matching transportation improvements.

The greenhouse effect has been studied for many
years, but California is the first state in the nation to take specific action to combat the effects of greenhouse gas emissions.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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10 climate change
goal of reducing GHG emissions to 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050 (Executive Order S-3-05) and an interim target of 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 (Executive Order B-30-15). Additionally, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Scoping Plan, adopted in 2017, establishes per capita GHG emissions targets of 4.0 metric tons of CO2e per capita by 2030 and 2.0 metric tons of CO2e per capita by 2050. These per capita targets are consistent with statewide reduction goals.

Through Assembly Bill 32 and other legislation, the State is implementing measures that will reduce emissions by improving fuel efficiency in vehicles, reducing the carbon intensity of transportation fuels, increasing the use of renewable power, and other actions. However, local action is also needed to complement actions at the State level and ensure St. Helena meets its reduction target.

Targeting climate change policies to reduce vehicle miles traveled on local roads is essential to achieving the City’s long-term GHG reduction goals. Moreover, strengthening policies to improve commercial and residential building efficiency, conserve energy, and eliminate organic waste from landfills can reduce community emissions. Within government operations, improving building efficiency, utilizing renewable energy, and replacing vehicles with more fuel-efficient models can significantly reduce GHG emissions.

In 2009, St. Helena joined with other Napa County jurisdictions to prepare the Napa Countywide Community Climate Action Framework. The Framework, adopted by the Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA) in 2010, provides a consensus-based context for further planning efforts by the individual cities and towns. It outlines a suite of actions that, when translated into locally specific programs and projects countywide, will help meet climate protection targets.

Many of the implementing actions contained in this Climate Change Element are based on the actions identified in the Framework.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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10.3 Key Findings
There are several challenges and opportunities facing St. Helena related to climate change. The following key findings are based upon comprehensive existing conditions analysis and community input.
• St. Helena is currently implementing a program to reduce GHG emissions from City facilities based on findings in the City of St. Helena Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Action Plan Analysis (Final Report April 22, 2009). • The City of St. Helena municipal operations emitted 3,506 metric tons of CO2e during the year 2010. Water and wastewater operations and employee commutes generated the largest proportions of total emissions 74 percent and 9 percent, respectively). Water transport facilities accounted for 6 percent of emissions, followed by City buildings (5 percent street lights (1 percent) and government-generated waste (less than 1 percent). By implementing measures for future action relating to building and equipment energy efficiency, fuel efficiency, alternative fuel options, and alternative energy generation, the City can make strides to meet its GHG reduction goals and be a model for other businesses and institutions seeking to reduce long-term emissions levels.

Green jobs programs can help
to build local capacity for
solar installations and other
energy saving strategies for
homeowners.

Agenda Item #5.1.

10-10 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
• The City participated in the development of the Napa Countywide Community Climate Action Framework, which contains 53 consensus-based actions intended to guide the participating jurisdictions in meeting GHG reduction goals. The collaborative process was managed by the Napa County Transportation and Planning Agency. A 2006 Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) report indicated that approximately 55 percent of GHG emissions in Napa County resulted from mobile source emissions. Effective land use planning that reduces vehicle miles traveled and promotes alternate modes of transportation is essential to mitigating climate change. By focusing on improving bicycle and pedestrian connections across the City and reducing commute and truck trips, St. Helena can address auto-related emissions levels at both the local and regional levels.
• St. Helena’s estimated 2018 baseline community-wide GHG emissions totaled 76,012 metric tons CO2e, and emissions were 13.0 MTCO2e per capita for the residential population and 6.7 MTCO2e per service population. Transportation emissions make up a significant portion of St.

Helena’s emissions (59 percent), with commercial/industrial energy use in second place (17 percent), and residential energy use in third (13 percent).

Commercial/industrial and residential emissions have decreased since 2010.

Transportation emissions appear to have significantly increased since 2010, however, this is due to a change in the methodology in accounting for VMT within the GHG inventory to be consistent with best practices and protocols. • Over half of community-wide emissions in St. Helena result from on-road vehicles. Effective land use planning that reduces VMT and promotes alternate modes of transportation is essential to mitigating climate change. By focusing on improving bicycle and pedestrian connections across the city and reducing commute and truck trips, St. Helena can address auto-related emissions levels at both the local and regional levels.
• Like other communities throughout California, St. Helena is vulnerable to water shortages in the event of prolonged period of drought that could be exacerbated by climate change. Fully integrating water resource conservation policies and implementation measures into the City’s Climate Change Element is essential to ensuring that St. Helena will have adequate water supplies to meet its future needs.

Innovative landscaping like
rain gardens can beautify
impermeable surfaces
like parking lots while
addresswater runoff concerns.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-11
10 climate change
• A significant portion of St. Helena’s economy relies on industry sectors that may be adversely affected by climate change, most importantly agriculture and tourism. By considering the water supply in future climate change scenarios and supporting measures to recycle and reuse water as much as possible in the near future, the City can begin to strengthen the viability of its industries, markets, and employment into the future.

10.4 Goals
The goals of the Climate Change Element are:

Increase Citywide Transportation-Related Energy Efficiency.

The City seeks to reduce demand for fossil fuels by decreasing VMT, improving transit options and the fuel efficiency of vehicles, supporting the use of renewable energy-powered vehicles, and creating a bicycle and pedestrianfriendly environment.

Creating walkable streets
and shopping districts can
help to reduce dependence
on automobiles as residents
and visitors walk and bicycle
more.

Agenda Item #5.1.

10-12 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
Reduce Energy Demand Through Improved Building and Design.

St. Helena is dedicated to reducing energy demand by promoting development and construction that improve resource conservation and efficiency, and to improving the energy supply by switching from fossil fuels to renewables.

Reduce Consumption and Divert Waste.

The City is committed to achieving waste diversion of 75 percent to 90 percent by year 2020.

Ensure the Sustainable Management of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Urban Forests.

St. Helena is dedicated to protecting and increasing the amount of vegetation and biomass in local soils, reducing emissions from agricultural sources, encouraging responsible and sustainable agricultural and landscaping practices, and significantly reducing water use to protect local water resources.

Increase Community Engagement and Advocacy.

The City seeks to increase participation in GHG reduction efforts through marketing programs and community outreach. In addition, they are committed to engaging and advocating for collaborative policy and legislative solutions at the local, regional, state, federal, and global levels.

Improve the Efficiency of Local Government Operations.

St. Helena is dedicated to reducing fossil fuel consumption by local government operations, improving the energy efficiency and reduction of carbon emissions of City and County facilities and operations, and reducing solid waste attributable to City and County operations and facilities.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-13
10 climate change

10.5 Policies and Implementing Actions
A range of policies and implementing actions are outlined below and organized into the following topic areas:

1. Transportation and Mobility;

2. Buildings and Energy;

3. Consumption and Solid Waste;

4. Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Urban Forests;

5. Community Engagement; and

6. Local Government Operations.

The following policies and actions mandate, encourage, or allow certain initiatives to be pursued throughout the duration of the General Plan. Together they serve as strategic directions for City staff and partners, highlighting where time and resources should be focused. They reflect St. Helena’s commitment to coordinating its climate change measures with countywide efforts to address climate change.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
10-14 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
1 TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
top California’s rail system
provides regional transit
connections throughout the
state.
bottom Innovative solutions
for parking lots can create
self-sustaining spaces with
less impact on the natural
environment.

Policies
CC1.1 Promote a “walkable” and “bikeable” city.

CC1.2 Support transportation planning efforts to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle miles travelled on local roads.

CC1.3 Seek initiatives that provide efficient modes of transportation for visitors and residents.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-15
10 climate change
1 TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
Implementing Actions
CC1.A Adopt and implement pedestrian and bicycle networks within St. Helena that may connect to a countywide multi-use trail that extends from Calistoga to American Canyon.

CC1.B If feasible maintain and enhance existing express bus, local bus, and para-transit services. Provide shuttle service between the three upvalley towns.

Support the establishment of a northbound express bus during peak commute hours. Ensure that these services provide opportunities to connect with existing and proposed countywide service improvements, including the transit center in Downtown Napa.

CC1.C Expand Park and Ride areas and other support facilities to encourage public transportation use and car and van pooling.

CC1.D Evaluate truck and freight rail routes through the city. Based on these findings, develop policies and strategies to improve circulation and neighborhood compatibility issues.

CC1.E Adopt and implement transportation plans in accordance with the Napa Valley Transportation Authority’s (NVTA) Strategic Transportation Plan to increase transit service and ridership in St. Helena and connections with County transit services.

CC1.F Establish programs to reduce vehicle miles traveled by supporting local hiring, food production, farmers’ markets, and community-based “buy local” campaigns. For General Plan purposes, “local” includes St. Helena and its residents, as well as the residents and areas of the surrounding towns and unincorporated County that have traditionally been served by St. Helena’s commercial and retail services.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
10-16 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
1 TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY
CC1.G Evaluate parking standards to help reduce vehicle miles traveled and reduce vehicle idling.

CC1.H Increase walkability and bikeability to encourage a reduction in local auto trips. Strengthen outreach to increase awareness of pedestrian and bicycle amenities throughout the city.

CC1.I Require discretionary development projects to assess and mitigate the impacts of vehicle miles traveled using transportation demand management programs, including providing transit amenities.

CC1.J Initiate programs that encourage car-free tourism through incentives, outreach, awareness, and creating a bicycle and pedestrian-friendly environment.

CC1.K Adopt and implement programs to assist businesses and organizations switch from fossil fuel-powered fleet vehicles to vehicles powered by clean, renewable energy sources.

CC1.L Develop parks and open spaces in support of efforts to create walkable, bikeable mixed-use neighborhoods, especially to complement higher-density development and connect lower-density areas.

CC1.M Design and operate the public street system to optimize fuel efficiency.

Consider fuel efficiency in the design of street extensions, connections, and rightof-way controls at intersections, and monitor and adjust traffic signals.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-17
10 climate change
Policies
CC2.1 Encourage measures to reduce energy demand through conservation and efficiency.

CC2.2 Support local efforts to improve the energy supply by switching from fossil fuels to renewables.

Implementing Actions
CC2.A Partner with the County of Napa to implement an AB811 program that makes funding available to residential and commercial property owners seeking to improve their properties to conserve energy and water, and to generate solar energy.

CC2.B Pursue state and federal funding programs designed to reduce energy demand through conservation and efficiency.

CC2.C Implement Title 24 energy conservation standards for new buildings, and other State building code standards for high performance “green” buildings.

Utilize established green building standards, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Build it Green.

CC2.D Continue to reduce energy use by promoting domestic water conservation and requiring water-efficient landscape improvements associated with new construction.

CC2.E Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings and energy use.

Require or request that new development projects analyze greenhouse gas emissions due to energy use and incorporate energy and safe yield water conservation measures into projects.

Transit agencies in some
parts of the state are building
their fleets with buses that
use natural gas and other
alternative fuel sources.
2 BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
10-18 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
2 BUILDINGS AND ENERGY
CC2.F In support of countywide energy generation efforts, increase local renewable energy generation. Adopt production standards for the City based on quantifiable measures that increase per capita generation levels.

CC2.G Remove regulatory impediments and economic disincentives associated with the generation and use of energy from renewable sources, such as wind, geothermal, and solar energy.

CC2.H Establish programs that encourage owners to retrofit existing structures to incorporate energy-efficient and “green” building standards. (Also see the Community Design Element, Topic Area: 1) New building technologies make it possible to reduce
energy consumption and
generate new energy using
solar, wind, and water
sources.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-19
10 climate change
Policies
CC3.1 Enhance recycling, composting, and source reduction services for residential and commercial uses to support Napa County’s countywide waste reduction goal to achieve overall waste diversion of 75 percent to 90 percent by 2020.
(Also see the Public Facilities and Services Element, Topic Area: 4) Implementing Actions
CC3.A Establish programs and create incentives to achieve a 75 to 90 percent citywide construction and demolition debris waste diversion level in support of Statewide goals.

CC3.B Establish programs and create incentives to achieve a 75 percent organic (food and green) waste diversion level in support of statewide goals.

CC3.C Establish citywide collection services for segregated food waste from commercial sources.

CC3.D Encourage home composting of organic waste.

CC3.E Create and support other programs, such as the Napa County Green Business Program and the green restaurant program, that help achieve the 75 to 90 percent overall waste diversion goal.

CC3.F Adopt environmentally-preferable purchasing measures and explore joint-purchasing agreements with partner agencies and businesses. 3 CONSUMPTION AND SOLID WASTE
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
10-20 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
Wind turbines offer new
opportunities for climatefriendly energy generation.

Policies
CC4.1 Support efforts to protect and increase the amount of vegetation and biomass in soil and reduce emissions from agricultural sources.

CC4.2 Encourage responsible and sustainable agricultural and landscaping practices.

CC4.3 Strengthen water conservation measures that result in significant reductions in local water use and the protection of local water resources. (Also see the Community Design Element, Topic Area: 1)
CC4.4 Support efforts to expand and improve the City’s managed urban forest in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve overall air quality. (Also see the Open Space and Conservation Element for additional policies and implementing actions relating to urban forests.)
CC4.5 Promote community gardens to reduce emissions generated in food transportation.

Implementing Actions
CC4.A Establish programs to support and encourage local agriculture, food production, and school and community gardens.

CC4.B Promote edible landscaping where possible.

CC4.C Establish programs and plans that create and enhance urban forests and greenways.
4 AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND URBAN FORESTS
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-21
10 climate change
CC4.D Assess the impact of land use changes, new vineyards, and urban development on carbon sequestration.

CC4.E Support efforts by local growers and restaurants to produce and use locally-grown food and remove associated regulatory hurdles.

CC4.F Revise ordinances to further protect habitat and mitigate the conversion of oak woodlands, natural resources, riparian habitat, and other important natural communities by permanently
protecting similar habitats.

CC4.G Support and promote the
Napa Green Certified Winery Program
and the Napa Green Certified Land
Program.

CC4.H Adopt landscape ordinances
that promote drought resistant
plants, and limit or restrict lawns
and other high-water-demand plants
unless irrigated with reclaimed or
grey water systems.

CC4.I Develop and adopt energysaving and environmentally-sound domestic water conservation plans.

CC4.J Establish an urban forestry program to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to maintaining and increasing the City’s trees especially native varietals when possible.
top Local gardens help reduce
the footprint of fruits and
vegetables.
bottom A boatload of trash
illustrates how much waste
enters natural ecosystems.
4 AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND URBAN FORESTS
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
10-22 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
Incentives programs can help
to encourage everything from
green roofs to composting and
recycling to reuse of materials.

Policies
CC5.1 Support local efforts to market programs and conduct community outreach through schools, non-profit groups, community organizations, and the business community to increase participation in greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction efforts.

CC5.2 Engage and advocate for collaborative programs, policies, and legislative solutions at the regional, state, federal, and global levels to reduce global GHG emissions.

CC5.3 Expand local awareness about gardening, composting, and agriculture.

Implementing Actions
CC5.A Partner with the St. Helena Unified School District, private schools, community-based non-profit organizations, and others to undertake public outreach and education efforts that broaden community involvement in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

CC5.B Market and encourage participation in incentive programs that improve energy efficiency.

CC5.C Foster and build public-private partnerships that help achieve greater energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

CC5.D Promote programs designed to advance sustainable business practices in St. Helena. Use the Napa County Green Business Program as a model for a City-based effort.

CC5.E Participate in and help develop effective regional, state, and federal solutions to reduce emissions.
5 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-23
10 climate change
CC5.F Engage and assist local agencies and utility companies toward achieving greenhouse gas reduction targets.

CC5.G Enable long-term solutions by investing in and supporting science and engineering education.

CC5.H Support the United States’ participation in international greenhouse gas reduction efforts.

CC5.I Establish an outreach program to raise public awareness about gardening, composting, and agriculture. Utilize public access television, the City’s website, public notices, and workshops to engage a broad and diverse range of residents. 5 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Farmers markets and
community gardens provide
residents with direct
connections to the food supply.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
10-24 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
10 climate change
Policies
CC6.1 Ensure that the City leads by example in managing its local government operations while implementing the following policy directions:
• Encourage the reduction of fossil fuel consumption by local government operations.
• Improve energy efficiency, implement alternative and renewable energy solutions, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in City and county facilities and operations.
• Reducing solid waste from City and County operations and facilities.

Implementing Actions
CC6.A Transition City fleets to vehicles powered by clean, renewable energy sources.

CC6.B Install electric vehicle charging stations with funding from state and federal sources.

CC6.C Encourage alternatives to agency employees’ use of single-occupancy vehicles by providing bicycle racks, preferential parking permits for carpools and vanpools, commuter information, and other incentives.

CC6.D Conduct audits and regularly monitor the effectiveness of City and County energy efficiency implementation measures and adapt them to meet targets.

CC6.E Convert street lighting, water pumping, water treatment, and other energy-intensive operations to more efficient technologies. 6 LOCAL GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Community programs can
help engage both adults and
children in learning about
their environments and about
the impact of greenhouse gas
emissions on the climate.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 10-25
10 climate change
CC6.F Ensure that new municipal or substantially-renovated municipal facilities incorporate cost-effective strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving energy and water, and utilizing sustainable construction practices.

CC6.G Consider carbon emissions from the production, transportation, use, and disposal of goods as a criterion for City purchasing decisions.

CC6.H Establish a comprehensive, user-friendly recycling program that involves all City departments and facilities. Recover 70 to 85 percent of all waste generated in City operations.

CC6.I Install renewable energy systems at City facilities.

CC6.J Review and update the implementation actions recommended by the City’s Climate Protection Task Force (CPTF) on an annual basis. 6 LOCAL GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Collaboration between governmental entities, residents and community groups ensures
that actions have significant
impacts.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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Agenda Item #5.1.

housing
chapter eleven
The 2015 - 2023 Housing Element is a separate stand alone document, which consists of:
• Housing Element Update 2015-2023: Goals, Policies, and Eight-Year Action Plan • Housing Element Update 2015-2023: Housing Needs Assessment A copy is available on the City’s website.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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Agenda Item #5.1.

parks and recreation
chapter twelve
Agenda Item #5.1.

12-2 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
A comprehensive network
of parks and open spaces
brings many benefits to the St.

Helena community.

12.1 Purpose of the Element
The Parks and Recreation Element presents a framework for developing and maintaining a comprehensive system of quality parks, pedestrian and bicycle trails, recreational facilities and programs. It aims to effectively guide the City’s parks and recreation programming and to support community members’ health, entertainment and high quality of life. Key to these efforts is increasing the overall acreage of useable, publicly accessible park space in St. Helena, and creating and maintaining a network of bicycle and pedestrian trails that establishes connections from residential neighborhoods to parks, schools, and goods and services.

The Parks and Recreation Element includes the following sections. • 12.2 Parks and Recreation Framework for St. Helena. Summarizes key issues related to parks and recreation in St. Helena (p. 12-3). • 12.3 Key Findings. Identifies key findings based on an existing conditions analysis and extensive community outreach (p. 12-12).
• 12.4 Goals. Defines overarching goals to guide policies and implementing actions (p. 12-14).
1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-3
12 parks and recreation
• 12.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to expand and maintain a comprehensive parks and recreation system (p. 12-15).

To supplement the policies and implementing actions included here, additional policies and actions associated with the provision of trails, the urban/agricultural interface, and the maintenance of open space for recreation can be found in the Open Space and Conservation Element.

12.2 Parks and Recreation Framework for St. Helena
The St. Helena community has expressed the desire for a comprehensive and integrated system of parks and recreational facilities to meet residents’ diverse recreational needs. The system can include parks, open spaces, and community facilities linked together along natural creek corridors and pedestrian-friendly streets. In addition, these parks and recreational resources can develop concurrently with pedestrian and bicycle improvements that link neighborhoods and connect the community to key destinations throughout the city. Figure 12.1 is a map that illustrates the array of parks and recreation facilities that currently exist in St. Helena. Together, these assets present opportunities to build the desired network of parks, open spaces, and recreational amenities for current and future residents.

The historic gazebo at Lyman
Park is a favorite site for
parties and events.

Agenda Item #5.1.

A comprehensive parks and
recreation system includes
parks, open spaces, and
community facilities linked
together.
12-4 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation

NETWORK OF PARKS AND RECREATION AMENITIES
For St. Helena, a comprehensive parks and recreation system includes parks of various sizes, community gardens, community orchards, community and recreational facilities, accessible open space, a variety of natural features, and connectors such as paths, trails, and green streets. By enhancing these amenities and the connections that link all the components together, St. Helena can create a valuable resource system that helps to fulfill the desired characteristics that residents have identified for their community. These include equitable access to open space and community facilities, a strong connection to agriculture, environmental sustainability, and community livability.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-5
12 parks and recreation

PARK CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
This General Plan establishes a parks classification system for St. Helena composed of three general park types: parklets/mini parks, neighborhood parks, and community parks (see Table 12.1).
• Mini Parks / Parklets – small, limited use sites generally less than 1 acre in size. They vary from small greens with open grass areas, children’s playgrounds, or small picnic spaces, to small squares and plazas. • Neighborhood Parks – mid-sized parks intended to serve nearby residents living within a ½-mile radius. They are primarily designed for informal, unsupervised recreational activities and typically feature facilities such as children’s playgrounds, picnic areas, pathways, open grass areas for passive use, outdoor basketball courts, and non-lighted, multi-use ball fields.

Neighborhood parks generally range from 4 to 10 acres in size. • Community Parks – larger facilities intended to serve residents living within a 1- to 2-mile radius. They are generally more than 10 acres in size and designed with a sports field or similar facility that provides active and structured recreation opportunities as the central focus, although they can also provide opportunities for passive recreation. Community parks attract people from a wider geographic area than neighborhood or mini parks and require ancillary facilities such as parking, lighted sports fields, and restrooms. A community park can also function as a neighborhood park for nearby residential areas.

While the General Plan provides over-arching guidance for parks and recreational facilities in the community, a comprehensive parks master planning process will provide an opportunity to further delineate St. Helena’s park types and performance standards, identify long-term goals for the community, describe current and future needs and community preferences, and prioritize parks and recreational facilities improvement needs.

Agenda Item #5.1.

12-6 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
TABLE 12.1: St. Helena Parks by Park Category
Category Park Acres Site Characteristics
Mini
Baldwin Park 0.76 Mowed grass; picnic tables; handicapped accessible from Voorhees Circle.

Lewis Station 0.13 "Pocket Park" with picnic tables, benches, and restroom.

Lyman Park 0.89 Picnic tables; grassy areas; children’s play area; gazebo for events; one restroom.

Mary Fryer Park 0.84 Picnic tables; play equipment designed for pre-school-aged children.

Mennen Park 0.17 Nut and fruit trees, barbeque amenities, walking paths, grassy areas
St. Helena Skate
Park 0.41 Skatepark
Stephen C.

McCullagh Park 0.14 Sandbox, climbing rock and rope structures, benches, play area
Stonebridge Park 0.75 Located on the Napa River; grassy areas with limited parking.

Neighborhood
Jacob Meily Park 5.42 Play field; heritage orchard, picnic area, children's playground, and restroom.

Wappo Park 6.65 Trail and picnic facilities.

Community Crane Park 11.27
Six lighted tennis courts; six lighted bocce courts; two Little League baseball fields; horseshoe pits; children’s playground; two restrooms; picnic areas; Farmer's Market; and skate park.

Sources: City of St. Helena, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018.

Agenda Item #5.1.

12 parks and recreation
kj
kj
kj
kj kj
kj
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Railroad Ave
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Kearney St
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Valley View Ave
Hillview Pl
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Elmhurst Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Sulphur Creek
Park
Napa River
York Cree k
Sulphur Creek
Lower
Reservoir
Park
Crane
Park
Wappo Park
Jacob
Meily
Park
Lyman
Park
Stone
Bridge
Park
Mennen
Park
Stephen C.

McCullagh
Park
Skate
Park
Mary
Fryer
Park
Baldwin
Park
St. Helena
High School
St. Helena
Primary
School
St. Helena
Elementary
School
Robert Louis
Stevenson
Middle School
Pratt Ave Park
Adams
Street
Park
Flood Control Project Open Space
Saint Helena Public
Cemetery
Meadowood
Golf Club
Sulphur Creek
York Creek
Napa River
kj Skate Park
kj Potential new park site
Parks Quarter Mile Service Radius
Parks Half Mile Service Radius
Mini Park
Neighborhood Park
Community Park
Open Space
Golf Course
Public Schools
Cemetery
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Figure 12.1
Parks and Recreation Facilities
Agenda Item #5.1.

12-8 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Children’s play environments support physical, behavioral and cognitive development and promote healthy and active play.

CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS
The Many Benefits of Parks and Recreation
In recent decades, cities and counties have paid
greater attention to the many benefits of parks. Cities have adapted their marketing strategies to focus less
on the defining physical features of parks and more
on how parks benefit the entire community. The
Benefits Movement was introduced by the National
Recreation and Park Association in the mid-1990s;
this movement has been defined as “an ongoing process by leisure service providers to identify desirable individual, economic, community and environmental benefits derived from recreational experiences, including the assignment of resources to address and
promote these benefits and their outcomes.”
Personal and Community Benefits
Evidence indicates that people tend to exercise more
when they have access to parks and open spaces,
thereby increasing health and reducing the risk of
many physical, life-threatening conditions. Studies
also show that providing access to parks and the
outdoors creates benefits for psychological health.

Physical activity is commonly known to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Parks provide spaces for outdoor play for children
and in turn support their physical, behavioral and
cognitive development. By providing engaging recreational opportunities for St. Helena’s children and youth, parks and recreation systems can promote
healthy and active play.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-9
12 parks and recreation
Economic Benefits
A healthy parks and recreation system is very important to local economic development. The availability of accessible open space is an issue that is central to quality of life, as access to open space
is an important factor that people consider when
choosing where to live or establish their business.

Recreational amenities, including parks and green
spaces, can help increase the value of nearby properties. Therefore, parks bring economic benefits to individual property owners and businesses and strengthen the local tax base, generating more revenue for public services and facilities, including new parks and open spaces.

Environmental Benefits
Open space and park lands can provide multiple
environmental benefits for local communities. Parks
help preserve ecologically and historically significant natural resources, in part through the preservation
of wildlife habitat. Parks can also help to protect
significant historic features of the natural landscape
and play an essential role in protecting water and air
quality. For example, green spaces help filter and
reduce storm water run-off from more developed
areas. Parks with healthy tree canopies help capture
carbon dioxide and other polluting gases. By working
to build an interconnected network of green corridors
and open spaces, parks planners can help repair and
restore ecosystems rather than detract from them.

Top: The St. Helena’s Farmers Market attracts
residents and vistors in support of local and regional
agriculture and commerce.

Bottom: Parks designed to showcase natural amenities
can bring life to a neighborhood and provide
important environmental benefits.

Agenda Item #5.1.

12-10 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation

RECREATION FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS
The City of St. Helena offers an array of recreational programs and services to residents. Programs include youth sports and summer enrichment programs, a middle school teen program, and recreational opportunities for adults and seniors. Local community centers, schools, parks, and recreation facilities, shown on Figure 12.2, host many of these programs. Key recreational facilities include a newly-constructed skate park, teen center, bocce courts, athletic fields, a dog park, a community garden, a public vineyard, and a community swimming pool.

As the city evolves, it will be important to ensure that these programs and services continue to respond to the changing demographics, interests, and needs of residents. By conducting regular citywide needs assessments in conjunction with the creation of a parks and recreation master plan, the City can update, revise, and develop new programs to accommodate the evolving needs of the community.

In addition, conducting regular needs assessments will provide opportunities to evaluate the location of parks and recreation facilities in the city to ensure that residents have safe, walkable, and equitable access to key recreational facilities, and that these facilities continue to provide a high level of service.

The St. Helena Skatepark,
located in Crane Park, is a
popular spot for teens.

Agenda Item #5.1.

12 parks and recreation
")L
^_
kj
kj
Chaix Ln
Fir Hill Dr
Mills Ln
Melrose Ln
Meadowood Ln
York Ln
Fulton Ln
Tokay Ln
Dean York Ln
W heeler Ln
Inglewood Ave
La Fata St
Victoria Ln
Laguna Seca
Davis Ln
Mccorkle Ave
Tainter St
Stanton Dr
Contento Ln
Edwards St
Money Way
Del Rio Ct
Boyson Ln
Mccormick St
Pope St
Starr Ave
N Crane Ave
Hollis Ln
Palmer Dr
Stice Ln
Vineyard Ave
Allyn Ave
Crane Ave
Hudson Ave
Mitchell Dr
Allison Ave
Hunt Ave
Pinot Way
Charter Oak Ave
Chiles Ave
Madrona Ave
Dowdell Ln
Zinfandel Ln
Big Rock Rd
·|}29
College Ave
Deer Park Rd
Sylvaner Ave
White Ln
Spring Mountain Rd
Fawn Park Rd
Spring St
Silverado Trail
Oak Ave
Crane Ave
Lewelling Ln
·|}29
Stockton St
Madrona Ave Spring St
Howell Mountain Rd
Sulphur Springs Ave
Adams St
Pratt Ave
Grayson Ave
Lodi Ln
Silverado Trail
Howell Mountain Rd
White Sulphur Springs Rd
Stockton St
Silverado Trail
Vineland Ave
Paseo Grand Dr
Mountain View Ave
Park St
Railroad Ave
Hudson Ave
Garden Ave
Con n Valley Rd
Vallejo St
Scott St
Charter Oak Ave
Saint Helena Public
Cemetery
Crane
Park
St. Helena
Montessori
School
Wappo
Park
Culinary
Institute of
America
St. Helena
Primary
School
Jacob
Meily
Park
Napa
Valley
College
St. Helena
Elementary
School
Robert Louis
Stevenson
Middle School
St. Helena
High School
Lyman
Park
St. Helena
Catholic
School
Little Backpacks
Preschool
Sun & Stars
Montessori
School
Carnegie
Building
Stevenson
Museum
St. Helena
Library
Police &
Fire
Dept.

Post
Office
City
Hall
Public
Works
Teen
Center
St. Helena
Wastewater
Treatment Plant
City
Corporation
Yard
Signorelli
Barn
Lower
Reservoir
Park
Baldwin
Park Mary
Fryer
Park
Mennen
Park
St Helena
Skate Park
Stone
Bridge
Park
Stephen C.

McCullagh
Park
Meadowood
Golf Club
Lewis
Station
Data Source: City of St. Helena, 2018; Napa County, 2018; Dyett & Bhatia, 2018 0 1,000 2,000 4,000Feet

GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
C i t y o f S t . H e l e n a
Railroad
Water Features
Urban Limit Line
Study Areas
City of St. Helena
^_ City Hall
")L Library
kj Signorelli Barn
kj Skate Park
Educational Facilities
Parks
Cemetery
Public Facilities
Open Space
Figure 12.2
Educational Institutions and Public Facilities
Agenda Item #5.1.

12-12 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation

12.3 Key Findings
There are several challenges and opportunities facing St. Helena related to parks and recreation. The following key findings are based upon comprehensive existing conditions analysis and community input.
• Since the 1993 General Plan Update, the City has developed a number of new parks: Meily Park, centrally located on Pope Street on the east side of State Route 29; the Constantini property was added to Crane Park, creating the space for additional parking and improved vehicular access; and Wappo Park, which includes a dog park, was completed in 2012. • With approximately 27 acres of parkland and a population of 5,900 in 2018, St. Helena’s current ratio is 4.7 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents; however, the General Plan identifies additional acreage for future parks to meet the target of 5.0 acres per 1,000 established in this Plan. Notably, the Lower Reservoir, owned by the City, and open space areas along Sulphur Creek present opportunities to add significant acreage to the park system, and help achieve local and national park standards.
• State legislation known as the “Quimby Act” allows cities to set a standard of up to 5 acres of parkland per 1,000 population for purposes of formulating a park impact fee for new development. By requiring new development to dedicate parkland pursuant to the Quimby Act, the City can help ensure Residents enjoy a sunny day of
bocce ball at Crane Park.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-13
12 parks and recreation
St. Helena envisions a complete network of bicycle and pedestrian trails that connect
residents and visitors to the
places they want to go.
that adequate parkland is available to meet the needs of the community as development is approved.
• Community members have strongly voiced the need for additional active recreation facilities to meet community needs, advocating in particular for increased and improved soccer facilities. Working with local schools and other groups in the community to identify new park sites where soccer facilities may be located to address the need. • St. Helena offers a variety of recreational programs; including adult and youth sports leagues and camps, bocce, belly dancing, dog obedience, and summer programs for students at a range of grade levels. Recent efforts to raise funds for a skate park were successful and the park was opened in the fall of 2009. Expanding offerings to include programs in the creative and performing arts for residents of all ages and abilities can augment the City’s current programs and encourage even greater participation.

Agenda Item #5.1.

12-14 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation

12.4 Goals
Provide High-Quality Parks and Recreation Services. St. Helena is dedicated to providing high-quality park facilities and recreation programs that meet the needs of residents of all ages and abilities, while efficiently managing fiscal resources and accommodating community priorities.

Achieve at a minimum the City’s standard of 5.0 acres of parkland per 1,000 population, which is the maximum park ratio that can be used in establishing a park impact fee under the State legislation known at the Quimby Act. Despite the limitations imposed on the City by the Quimby Act, it is the City’s ultimate goal to attempt to achieve the nationally recommended standard of 10.5 acres of park land per 1,000 residents.

Develop a System of Interconnected Bicycle and Pedestrian Trails. The City is committed to providing residents and visitors with opportunities to walk or bicycle throughout the city and the Napa Valley region, while promoting citywide efforts to encourage participation in active, healthy alternate modes of transportation.
“Pocket parks” such as Lewis
Station are fundamental to a
comprehensive and interconnected parks system, especially in communities with limited opportunities to develop large,
multi-acre parks.

Agenda Item #5.1.

ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-15
12 parks and recreation
Funding and maintenance of
existing parks and development of new parks are both
necessary to ensure safe and
convienent access to outdoor
recreation.

12.5 Policies and Implementing Actions
A range of policies and implementing actions are outlined below and organized into the following topic areas:

1. A Comprehensive and Interconnected System of Parks;

2. Equitable Park Distribution and Access;

3. Urban/Agricultural and Parks Interface;

4. Park Facilities and Recreation
Programs;

5. Community Participation and
Partnerships; and

6. Bicycle and Pedestrian Amenities.

The following policies and actions
mandate, encourage, or allow
certain initiatives to be pursued
throughout the duration of the
General Plan. Together, they serve
as strategic directions for City staff
and partners, highlighting where
time and resources should be
focused.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
12-16 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
1 A COMPREHENSIVE & INTERCONNECTED SYSTEM OF PARKS
Policies
PR1.1 Retain the park standard from the 1993 General Plan of 5.0 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, while striving for the nationally recommended standard of 10.5 acres per 1,000 residents.

PR1.2 Enhance the community’s quality of life and ensure a widely accessible environment through the provision of a citywide system of parks and open spaces. Identify and develop linkages, corridors, and other connections to provide an aesthetically pleasing and functional network of parks, open space areas, and bike paths throughout the city.

PR1.3 Identify park land opportunity sites to ensure that the City can meet and possibly exceed its parkland standard of 5.0 acres per 1,000 residents.

Locate new parks to ensure that City park facilities are equitably distributed throughout all areas of the city and residents of all ages can access them safely and conveniently.

PR1.4 Require park land dedications or civic improvement fees on all new residential, commercial, and industrial developments to meet the standard of 5.0 acres of parks per 1,000 residents.

PR1.5 Ensure adequate funding to acquire new park lands as they become available.

PR1.6 Develop new parks only after existing parks have received adequate funding and maintenance.

The interconnection and
accessibility of parks and facilities should be central goals of a Parks and Recreation
Master Plan.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-17
12 parks and recreation
1 A COMPREHENSIVE & INTERCONNECTED SYSTEM OF PARKS
Implementing Actions
PR1.A Develop a comprehensive, long-range Parks and Recreation Master Plan to aid the City in creating an integrated system of parks. The plan should be updated periodically to address changing recreation interests, trends, needs, and priorities. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan should:
• Identify long-term goals for the Parks and Recreation Department and the community;
• Describe current and future needs, interests, and community preferences for improving new parks and community facilities, and expanding or initiating new programs and services;
• Present a long-range plan for physical park and community facility improvements;
• Define performance standards (such as park function, size, and service area radii) and further develop park design guidelines and criteria; • Prioritize projects;
• Identify the proportion of Civic Improvement Fees that will be contributed to the development and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities; and • Outline funding mechanisms and strategies for managing the City’s commitments, so that new requests and initiative are considered in light of existing commitments
Subsequent actions in this Element may be included in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Agenda Item #5.1.

PR1.B Create opportunities to develop additional parks at the following locations:
• The City-owned land along the Napa River and Pratt Avenue for passive recreational uses; • Land adjacent to York and Sulphur Creeks, as well as the Napa River levee; • The water treatment plant site;
• The City-owned Lower Reservoir area for a water-oriented community park and recreational facility; and
• Ensure that new parks are developed to include bicycle and pedestrian trails.

PR1.C Identify a variety of funding sources for new parks and park improvements, including park land dedication, in-lieu fees, and regional, state, and federal grant programs, public/private partnerships, public/public partnerships with the St. Helena Unified School District, Conservation easements for public use, as well as other City funding sources.

PR1.D Strive to acquire additional park land to meet or exceed the minimum standard of 5 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents and, ultimately, to achieve the target of 10.5 acres per thousand residents.

PR1.E Develop a comprehensive network of bicycle and pedestrian trails that links the City’s parks and enhances bicycle and pedestrian connectivity throughout the city and the region.

PR1.F Mandate City park land dedication requirements for new infill projects.

Include specific park acreage and use requirements according to the type, scale, and population and increase of new development. Consider in-lieu fees for small infill projects.
topic area
1 A COMPREHENSIVE & INTERCONNECTED SYSTEM OF PARKS
12-18 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Agenda Item #5.1.

Focus on creating a parks
and recreation system that is
accessible to all residents.
topic area
2 EQUITABLE PARK DISTRIBUTION AND ACCESS
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-19
12 parks and recreation
Policies
PR2.1 Distribute parks and recreational facilities throughout the city to ensure that all residents have convenient access to parks and recreational programs and facilities.

PR2.2 Construct new parks and recreation facilities to accommodate community needs.

PR2.3 Ensure that parks and recreation programs have safe and convenient access.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
2 EQUITABLE PARK DISTRIBUTION AND ACCESS
12-20 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Implementing Actions
PR2.A Prioritize the construction of new parks and recreation facilities to ensure that they are distributed equitably to all areas of the city. Park and recreation facility development studies should include the potential impacts of development on surrounding natural resources and agricultural areas.

PR2.B Encourage the inclusion of pocket parks that include amenities, such as picnic tables, restrooms, shade and recreation spaces near retail, commercial, and industrial areas.

PR2.C Locate parks and recreation facilities in areas that are easily accessible by public transportation, as well as cars, bicycles, and pedestrians.

PR2.D Where possible, ensure that recreation programs and access to facilities are provided at costs affordable to all St. Helena residents.

PR2.E Develop and implement a list of planned parks and recreation facilities.

PR2.F Identify community locations that are not within a 10-minute walk of a park or recreation facility. Develop parks in the identified areas to ensure an equitable distribution of parks citywide.

PR2.G Encourage the development of parklets throughout the city.

PR2.H Encourage the development of linear parks throughout the city.

Active recreation is an important part of community life for many St. Helena residents.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
3 URBAN/AGRICULTURAL AND PARKS INTERFACE
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-21
12 parks and recreation
Policies
PR3.1 Ensure that the design and development of parks and recreation facilities preserves viewsheds and creates a buffer between urban and agricultural uses, where necessary.

PR3.2 Protect sensitive habitat, agricultural land, and open space when planning and maintaining City park lands.

PR3.3 Support local wildlife conservation efforts by incorporating habitat elements in urban/agricultural interface areas and ensuring the protection of migration corridors. Protecting sensitive agricultural land and preserving viewsheds are important
elements of park and facility
design and development.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
3 URBAN/AGRICULTURAL AND PARKS INTERFACE
12-22 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Implementing Actions
PR3.A Develop design guidelines for recreational facilities that preserve viewsheds and maintain a transition buffer between urban and agricultural uses.

Include specific design criteria regarding recreational trails and picnic areas adjacent to agricultural uses.

PR3.B Identify locations where new recreational programs and facilities may be constructed.

PR3.C Design and locate new parks to minimize noise and activity impacts on nearby agricultural and residential uses. This includes requiring context-sensitive site designs that minimize negative impacts on surrounding uses, such as pathway and picnic area locations, ball field usage and park lighting.

PR3.D Provide habitat elements in urban/agricultural interface areas. Habitat elements may include roosting trees and nesting boxes for birds, bats, and other wildlife, as appropriate.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
4 PARK FACILITIES AND RECREATION PROGRAMS
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-23
12 parks and recreation
The St. Helena Recreational
Facility provides opportunities for residents to create and give back to the community, to
make healthy choices, to learn,
and to grow.

Policies
PR4.1 Develop systematic and comprehensive plans to guide the development and operation of City parks and recreational programs.

PR4.2 Balance preservation, education, recreation, and public health and safety in park and open space planning.

PR4.3 Provide park areas for residents of all ages to meet a variety of recreational and social needs, including: seniors; formal, active uses; passive uses that allow for interaction with natural landscapes; and interpretive programs that highlight geomorphology, ecology, cultural resources, agricultural heritage, and historic preservation.

PR4.4 Ensure that all parks and recreational facilities are attractive, safe, and well-maintained with adequate lighting.

PR4.5 Prioritize park acquisitions and improvements that expand and enhance St. Helena’s active recreation facilities and programs to accommodate diverse community needs and interests.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
4 PARK FACILITIES AND RECREATION PROGRAMS
12-24 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Implementing Actions
PR4.A If feasible, revise and update the City’s recreation program in order to enhance existing programs and/or develop new programs.

PR4.B Promote design guidelines for the development of parks and recreation facilities. Design parks and recreation facilities that are attractive, safe, and easy to maintain. This action may be included in a Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

PR4.C Identify locations to accommodate active recreational uses to meet citywide needs. Potential locations include:
• Bicycle and pedestrian trails, interpretive areas, trail heads, and comfort stations along York and Sulphur creeks and the Napa River; and • A community park at the City-owned Lower Reservoir area PR4.D Support opportunities to involve children and youth in a participatory planning process for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of City parks.

PR4.E Design children’s play areas to include shade and wind protection.

PR4.F Provide multi-purpose event spaces for events in the park system, where possible.

PR4.G Install art designed by local artists in parks, where possible.

PR4.H Encourage the development of soccer fields, multi-sport facilities and open access to a community pool.

PR4.I Identify key improvements to existing parks, such as parking, picnic facilities, restrooms, tot lots with play structures, and multi-modal access points.

This action may be included in a Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

Jacob Meily Park’s playground and turf area accommodate active recreational uses for children and adults
alike.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-25
12 parks and recreation
topic area
5 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND PARTNERSHIPS
12 parks and recreation
Policies
PR5.1 Encourage partnerships with local organizations and the private sector to provide, develop and maintain parks, recreation facilities, and programs.

PR5.2 Ensure that a broad cross-section of St. Helena stakeholders participates in the planning, design, and maintenance of parks and recreational amenities.

PR5.3 Encourage volunteerism, mutual
responsibility and community spirit to set
the tone that St. Helena’s public parks and
open spaces belong to everyone.

Community volunteerism and
stewardship are essential to
creating safe, clean and accessible parks and recreational facilities for St. Helena residents.

Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
5 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND PARTNERSHIPS
12-26 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Implementing Actions
PR5.A Emphasize joint planning and cooperation with all public agencies as the preferred approach to meeting St. Helena’s parks, facilities and program needs.

PR5.B Mandate City parkland dedication requirements for new infill projects.

Include specific park acreage and use requirements according to the type, scale and population and increase of new development. Consider in-lieu fees for small infill projects.

PR5.C Provide local organizations, the St. Helena Unified School District and the private sector with opportunities and support for creating and implementing solutions to meet the City’s parks and recreation facilities’ needs.

PR5.D Cooperate with local groups in designing and constructing recreation facilities. Where possible, coordinate recreation and child care programs and facilities with school district programs.

PR5.E Negotiate joint-use agreements for recreation facilities with the St.

Helena Unified School District.

PR5.F Involve the private sector in providing and maintaining parks and recreation facilities through formal agreements with the City and in sponsoring increased volunteerism.

Agenda Item #5.1.

PR5.G Investigate the feasibility of creating a non-profit foundation to seek and receive funds for the support of parks and recreation programs. Look to St.

Helena’s successful library foundation as a local model.

PR5.H Foster neighborhood park planning committees, including neighborhood residents, business owners, and representatives from local groups to help plan, design, and maintain parks and recreational facilities.

PR5.I Work with community members and representatives of local sports organizations to define facilities needs as community needs change with time.

PR5.J Develop a public outreach program to involve community members in park maintenance and upkeep, and in mitigating vandalism. Create park signage to encourage responsible use of parks, and partner with the police force to support enforcement efforts.
topic area
5 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND PARTNERSHIPS
ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040 | 12-27
12 parks and recreation
Agenda Item #5.1.

topic area
6 BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN AMENITIES
12-28 | ST. HELENA GENERAL PLAN UPDATE 2040
12 parks and recreation
Bicycle amenities in parks
encourage community members to bike more often.

Policies
PR6.1 Promote walking and bicycling as safe and convenient modes of transportation.

PR6.2 Develop a comprehensive network of bicycle and pedestrian trails to enhance bicycle and pedestrian connectivity throughout the city and the region. (Also see the Community Design Element, Topic Area 4)
PR6.3 Promote the inclusion of bicycle and pedestrian trails, and bicycle lanes throughout the city, as well as connections to regional trail systems, such as the Napa Valley Vine Trail.

PR6.4 Carefully evaluate whether new bicycle and pedestrian trails can be developed and enjoyed without significant environmental risk to nearby sensitive habitat, including fish habitat.

PR6.5 Ensure that new bicycle and pedestrian trails near actively farmed agricultural areas are developed in a manner that minimizes risk of injury to pedestrians and cyclists from active farming operations.

Agenda Item #5.1.

Implementing Actions
PR6.A Develop and adopt a citywide bicycle and pedestrian master plan to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety, and to encourage community members to walk and bike more often. Build on St. Helena’s existing partnership with the Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA) to ensure that the City’s master plan is consistent with countywide transportation planning efforts. (Also see the following elements: Circulation, Topic Area 2; Open Space and Conservation, Topic Area 2)
PR6.B Develop guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of bicycle and pedestrian trails in St. Helena. Include guidelines for installing context-sensitive and solar lighting, and mitigating noise impacts from the trails.

Include guidelines for wayfinding and interpretive exhibits that use signs, art, and other visual clues to enhance users’ experiences. Highlight the rich history of the City and provide education and information for users. Coordinate the guidelines with Napa County or regional trail connections.

PR6.C Develop and adopt an ordinance that requires new development and redevelopment projects to provide bicycle and pedestrian improvements and amenities.

PR6.D Endeavor to secure easements or title to land along Sulphur Creek, York Creek, and the Napa River.

PR6.E Coordinate with countywide efforts to establish regional trail systems through the city limits.

PR6.F Develop a maintenance and operations plan for the City’s trail network.

Provide a high level of service to users by preventing deterioration, encroachment of vegetation, vandalism and crime. Consider including an Adopt-a-Trail program and invite local businesses to participate in trail maintenance. Include a funding program to support the plan.
topic area
6 BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN AMENITIES
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Agenda Item #5.1.

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Agenda Item #5.1.

arts, culture and
entertainment
chapter thirteen
Agenda Item #5.1.

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Visual arts and music represent the two largest segments of the arts and culture sector
in Napa County.

13.1 Purpose of the Element
The Arts, Culture, and Entertainment Element is not a State-required General Plan Element; however, it presents St. Helena’s approach to reinforcing the City’s unique identity and character through integrating arts, culture, and entertainment into the community’s everyday life. The intent of this Element is to preserve and protect the community’s heritage and cultural resources, celebrate its vibrant social fabric, and expand opportunities for arts enrichment. By supporting City leadership, active community participation, and strategic partnerships, this Element creates the foundation for ensuring that the arts flourish, while reinforcing St. Helena’s unique character and identity.

The Arts, Culture and Entertainment Element includes the following sections. • 13.2 Arts, Culture, and Entertainment in Napa County St. Helena.

Describes key community arts, culture, and entertainment issues (p. 13-3). • 13.3 Key Findings. Identifies key findings based on an existing conditions analysis (p. 13-8).
• 13.4 Goals. Defines overarching goals to guide policies and recommendations (p. 13-11). 1 introduction
2 land use and growth
management
3 economic sustainability
4 public facilities and services
5 circulation
6 historic resources
7 community design
8 open space and
conservation
9 public health, safety and
noise
10 climate change
11 housing
12 parks and recreation
13 arts, culture and
entertainment
Agenda Item #5.1.

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13 arts, culture and entertainment
• 13.5 Policies and Implementing Actions. Identifies policies and implementing actions to stimulate arts, culture and entertainment programming and contribute to the City’s livability (p. 13-12).

13.2 Arts, Culture, and Entertainment in Napa County and St. Helena
Napa County has a rich arts, culture, and entertainment sector that includes independent artists, theater companies, and arts organizations. Regional arts and cultural resources are rooted in a long-standing and celebrated history of craftspeople and artisans throughout the Napa Valley. St. Helena shares an important part of this history and is closely connected with regional organizations, including the Arts Council Napa Valley and the Napa County Arts Commission.

The City of St. Helena has the greatest number of arts resources per capita in the Napa Valley and is home to the county’s largest community of arts practitioners, particularly in the fine, visual, performing, literary and culinary arts. In addition, the city is a culturally diverse community that has drawn residents from around the world since its earliest days. St. Helena strives to continue to be a place where artistic expression and cultural diversity can flourish, and where an array of multi-faceted and ever-evolving art forms are created, performed, taught and exhibited.

Artistic and cultural festivals, performances and exhibitions are significant both socially and economically, for visitors and residents alike. They provide opportunities to celebrate the community’s rich history and creative talent. In turn, residents stand to benefit from the exposure to new ideas that may result from participation in such events and activities. Ensuring that City arts, culture and entertainment policies support a wide array of media can broaden the overall impact of the arts on St. Helena’s cultural growth and local economic development efforts.

Arts provide opportunities for
intergenerational collaboration and can serve as important outlets of expression for youth.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND ENGAGEMENT THROUGH ARTS,

CULTURE, AND ENTERTAINMENT
The arts can play a central role in strengthening community pride, engaging community members in social and cultural activities and events and increasing community awareness about the histories and legacies of the Valley’s natural landscape and its people. The arts also bring people together to celebrate, learn about, and preserve contributions to the City’s contemporary culture, economy, and urban form. Opportunities abound in St. Helena to facilitate this type of interaction and exchange. Similarly, by partnering with the St. Helena Historical Society and local Native American groups, St. Helena can encourage the development of a series of historical tours, interpretive walks, and special events to celebrate the City’s earliest history and people.

The arts also provide opportunities for intergenerational partnerships and collaboration and can serve as important outlets of expression and creativity for youth. Arts community representatives have expressed the need to reconnect young people to the arts. According to an Arts Council Napa Valley survey conducted in 2007, of the vast majority of Valley artists are over the age of

35. In effect, the future of the arts community depends on engendering arts appreciation and participation in local youth. Local artists seek to strengthen art programming in local schools and build partnerships between schools and local arts organizations. The City can provide additional support for school and after school-based arts programming through expanded Recreation Department arts offerings and increase funding to local arts organizations who offer arts programs to youth.1 1 Arts Council Napa Valley. A Community Cultural Plan for Napa County. 2007.

Agenda Item #5.1.

In 2008, more than 450
people attended the first
St. Helena Dia de los
Muertos celebration, a
jointly-hosted event sponsored by local arts and
family organizations. The
event not only featured arts
and crafts but also highlighted the heritage of the
City’s vibrant Latino community.

In 2017, Napa Valley’s arts
and culture community came together at St. Helena’s Lyman Park for “Arts in the Streets,” with participation from the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, Napa Valley Cooking School, the Napa Valley Writer’s Conference, and Nimbus Arts, a community-owned nonprofit organization that aims increase the Napa Valley Community’s access to arts.

Since 1981, St. Helena’s Napa Valley College – Upper Valley Campus has hosted the annual Napa Valley Writers’ Conference, an internationally-recognized literary gathering and educational event that attracts world-class poets and authors. Strengthening public awareness about the conference and supporting linkages between local schools and arts organizations can maximize the educational, cultural and economic development impacts of this important event to the City.

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The performing arts are
important for St. Helena both
socially and economically.

Agenda Item #5.1.

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TOURISM AND LOCAL IDENTITY
The Napa Valley is known as a world-class food, wine, and lifestyle destination, and tourism is a strong economic driver of the local economy. The Valley’s arts sector also has a role to play in local economic development, as national data indicate that cultural tourists tend to spend more and stay longer than other tourists.2 By encouraging public arts funding, installations and events, including the earmarking of public funds, the City can capitalize on the potential of the arts to generate cultural tourism and contribute to economic development efforts that support local artists and businesses.

Public art can also play a significant role in enhancing community design, creating visual interest in a neighborhood, and also showcasing regional or local talent. Creating an Art in Public Places Program can help advance the goal of the City to establish the arts as an integral part of St. Helena’s identity. This program can also expand St. Helena’s national attention to more sectors outside of the well-established food and wine industry, demonstrate the City’s commitment to leadership in public arts, pay homage to St. Helena’s rich history, and provide a mechanism for meaningfully involving citizens in the design of the City’s public spaces.
2 Hargrove, C. (2014). Cultural Tourism: Attracting Visitors and their Spending(Rep.). Retrieved https://www.americansforthearts.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2014/by_program/reports_and_data/ toolkits/cultural_districts/issue_briefs/Cultural-Tourism-Attracting-Visitors-and-Their-Spending.pdf Agenda Item #5.1.

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CONCEPTS, TRENDS AND IDEAS
The Benefits of Art in Public Places
Top: Public art can add color to an urban setting and
create a visual point of interest for passersby.

Bottom: The Cultural Citizen Tree in San Jose’s St.

James Park is a 14-foot high mixed-media sculpture
that symbolizes growth and change.
“Art in public places” refers to publicly accessible
artwork that is integrated into the design of public
or private property. Public art may draw from a city’s
unique identity and character through integrating
arts, culture and entertainment into the community’s
everyday life. Also, public art can commemorate and
interpret historical contributions, reflect unique identity and help to define a city’s gateways, focal points and public or private uses.

Art installations and programs can support economic
development and redevelopment goals by enhancing
community livability and identity and by contributing to a stimulating cultural environment for both residents and visitors. St. Helena is dedicated to
strengthening the arts and cultural sector, beautifying the environment, and ensuring that the arts flourish
and reinforce St. Helena’s unique character and identity through ongoing financial support for local visual, performing, cultural, literary and culinary arts.

Agenda Item #5.1.