Agenda packet, regular meeting — Vallejo City Council, March 25, 2025 (part 3 of 4)

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Resolution Approving Amended and Revised CPP CAO Stamp

2. CPP PPT 3.25.2025 CC meeting

3. Draft Citizen Participation Plan 2025

4. Citizen Participation Plan 2020

CONTACT
Alicia M. Jones, Housing Director, (707) 648-4408
[email protected]

Approved as to form:

By: for
Veronica Nebb, City Attorney
RESOLUTION NO._______________

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VALLEJO

APPROVING THE PROPOSED REVISED AND AMENDED CITIZEN

PARTICIPATION PLAN (CPP) FOR HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WHEREAS, the City of Vallejo receives Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) funding annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and
WHEREAS, as a condition for receiving this funding, the City of Vallejo must submit to HUD a Consolidated Plan every five years and Annual Action Plans each year to support the Consolidated Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plans must conform to the requirements set forth in 24 CFR Part 91; and
WHEREAS, 24 CFR Part 91.105 requires the City of Vallejo to adopt and follow a Citizen Participation Plan; and
WHEREAS, in response to 2020 legislation establishing the CDBG-CV program, the City incorporated new public participation guidance into its Citizen Participation Plan which shortened the public notification period to 15 days and allowed public hearings to be conducted remotely; and
WHEREAS, the 15-day provision is no longer in effect; and WHEREAS, HUD’s San Francisco field office has recommended the City of Vallejo revise its Citizen Participation Plan be revised to be more specific and more closely aligned with the requirements of 24 CFR Part 91.105; and
WHEREAS, the Citizen Participation Plan must specify the criteria the City will use for determining what changes in the jurisdiction's planned or actual activities constitute a substantial amendment to the consolidated plan; and
WHEREAS, the citizen participation plan must include, among the criteria for a substantial amendment, changes in the use of CDBG funds from one eligible activity to another; and WHEREAS, the current Citizen Participation Plan requires a substantial amendment if the City wished to transfer fifteen percent (15%) or more of the annual allocation from one activity to another; and
WHEREAS, Housing and Community Development staff recommends increasing this to forty percent (40%) of the annual allocation which would allow the City to respond to changing needs more expeditiously; and
WHEREAS, a draft of the revised and amended Citizen Participation Plan was released on February 24, 2025 for public review and comment until March 25, 2025, and WHEREAS, written and electronic comments received were promptly responded to; and WHEREAS, adopting the revised and amended Citizen Participation Plan is expected to have no fiscal impact; and
WHEREAS, the action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is not a project which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeably physical change in the environment pursuant to CEQA Guideline section 15378;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Vallejo as follows:

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the City Council hereby approves the revised and amended Citizen Participation Plan (CPP)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Housing and Community Development Department is authorized to implement and follow the revised and amended Citizen Participation Plan.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Vallejo this 25 th day of March 2025.

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Attest:

By:__________________________
City Clerk

CITY OF VALLEJO

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
March 25, 2025
ACTION CALENDAR Item 8.I.

ADOPT A RESOLUTION

APPROVING AMENDMENTS
AND REVISIONS TO THE

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

FOR HUD COMMUNITY PLANNING AND

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Alicia M. Jones, Housing Director
Citizen Participation Plan (CPP)
Amendments and Revisions
What is Citizen Participation?
❑The primary goal is to provide citizens of the community where Community Planning and Development (CPD) funded activities will take place and to provide an opportunity to participate in an advisory role in the planning, implementation, and assessment of the programs and projects.
❑Entitlement cities must have a plan for involving its citizens in the programming of CPD- funded activities.
❑That plan must be written and adopted by your governing body and the public. ❑The plan itself needs to describe how citizens can provide input into the program throughout its duration.

Purpose of a Citizen Participation Plan
A process for encouraging citizens, including
minorities and non-English speaking persons, as
well as persons with disabilities, to participate in the development of the Consolidated Plan and any of its
Annual Action Plans, any substantial amendments, the
performance report, and the CPP itself.

What is a Consolidated Plan?
A Consolidated Plan serves as the five-
year comprehensive housing affordability
strategy, community development plan, and submissions
for funding under any of the Community Planning
and Development formula grant programs (e.g., CDBG
and HOME).

Each Consolidated Plan identifies the needs of the
community and goals sets forth as a strategic plan for the next five years. The plan is supported by an Annual Action Plan, which outlines the goals and funding for each year for eligible activities.

What happens when changes to The Plan
is necessary?
What is a Substantial Amendment?
Changes in planned or actual activities would require a substantial amendment if a new goal is identified or a need for reallocation of funds above the threshold set by the City. Therefore, a substantial amendment may be required.

Background:

City of Vallejo is an entitlement city and receives CDBG and HOME funding annually. Funding is based on HUD
grant allocation formula.

HUD requires us to adopt a Citizen Participation Plan,
which sets forth the City's policies and procedures for citizen participation.

Reason for revisions and amendments
Reason One
Ø In response to 2020 legislation establishing the CDBG-CV program, the City incorporated the new public participation guidance into its Citizen Participation Plan, which shortened the public notification period for Covid-related activities to 15 days and allowed public hearings to be conducted remotely.

The 15-day notice period is no longer in effect.

Ø Since the 15-day provision is no longer in effect the language must be removed from the CPP
Ø Enable staff to implement any new HUD guidance without the need to request a substantial amendment to the CPP.

Reason for revisions and amendments
Reason Two
HUD San Francisco field office has recommended the City of Vallejo revise its Citizen Participation Plan to be more specific and more closely aligned with the requirements of 24 CFR Part 91.105.

Footnote:

Section 24 CFR 91.105 outlines what must be in the Citizen Participation Plan.

Reason for revisions and amendments
Reason Three
Proposed change to the Annual Action Plan
Ø Amend the current Annual Action Plan to increase
the funding allocation threshold that will trigger a
substantial amendment from fifteen percent (15%) to
forty percent (40%) between eligible activities.

Ø The substantial amendment process can take up to 45
days or more. Increasing the threshold of annual
allocation will allow the city to respond to changing
needs more expeditiously.

CONTACT(S)
Alicia M. Jones
Housing Director
[email protected]
707-648-4507

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

1 I. OVERVIEW

A grantee receiving Community Planning and Development (CPD) program grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is required by rule (24 CFR

91.105) to adopt a Citizen Participation Plan that sets forth its policies and procedures for citizen participation. The City of Vallejo receives annual funding allocations for two CPD programs: the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) programs.

In support of these programs, the City is required to prepare and submit to HUD the following:
• A Five-Year Consolidated Plan;
• Annual Action Plans in support of the Consolidated Plan; • Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER); • If needed, Substantial Amendments to the Consolidated Plan or an Action Plan.

This document details the City’s procedures for notifying the public and other interested parties of:
• meetings and public hearings;
• how reasonable and timely access to meetings and hearings will be provided; • opportunities for providing comment before the above documents are submitted to HUD;
• how and where records and the documents above will be made available for public review;
• how technical assistance will be provided to groups representing low - and moderate-income persons that wish to develop proposals for funding assistance; and
• how the City will handle complaints related to the above submissions;

II. Encouragement of Citizen Participation [§91.105(a)(2)]

Meetings and public hearings may take place at Vallejo City Hall, remotely, or at other accessible locations in the community. It is a policy of the City to provide residents of the community with reasonable and timely access to local meetings, consistent with accessibility and reasonable accommodation requirements, in accordance with section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the regulations at 24 CFR part 8; and the Americans with Disabilities Act and the regulations at 28 CFR parts 35 and 36, as applicable. Requests should be addressed to Chari Francisco, Staff Secretary at [email protected] or by phone at (707) 553-7204.

The City of Vallejo invites comments from its citizens on critical planning issues and decisions for the use of CDBG and HOME funds allocated annually. The City commits to providing the general public and interested and affected persons, including minorities and non-English speaking persons, with ample notification of these critical actions and ample time to comment.

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

2 The City encourages the participation of local and regional institutions, the Vallejo/Solano County Continuum of Care (CA -518), and other organizations (including businesses, developers, nonprofit organizations, philanthropic organizations, and community -based and faith -based organizations) in the process of developing and impl ementing the consolidated plan and Action Plans.

The City encourages residents of public and assisted housing developments (including any resident advisory boards, resident councils, and resident management corporations) to participate in the process of developing and implementing the consolidated plan, along with other low-income residents of targeted revitalization areas in which the developments are located.

The City will explore alternative public involvement techniques and quantitative ways to measure efforts that encourage citizen participation in a shared vision for change in communities and neighborhoods, and the review of program performance; e.g., use of focus groups and the Internet.

Upon request, the City will make the Citizen Participation Plan available in a format accessible to persons with disabilities.

III. The Consolidated Plan and Related Documents [§91.105(b)]

A. The Consolidated Plan

A grantee receiving Community Planning and Development Program grants (CDBG, HOME, ESG, and/or HOPWA) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is required by rule (24 CFR 91.1) state in one document its plan to use pursue the goals identified in §91.1(a):
i. Decent housing
ii. Suitable living environment
iii. Expanded economic opportunities

HUD rules refer to this document as the Consolidated Plan. The planning cycle for the Consolidated Plan is five years. The Consolidated Plan is supported by a series of annual Action Plans, the first of which is submitted to HUD in conjunction with the Consolidated Plan. The Plan must be submitted to HUD for approval no later than 45 days before the beginning of the next program year.

1. Public Hearings
The City of Vallejo will conduct a minimum of two public hearings on its Consolidated Plan. The public hearings may be conducted by the Housing and Community Development Commission and/or the City Council. The H CD is an advisory body created by the City Council to make recommendations on CDBG Program funding, and to provide progress reports on the status of CDBG projects and activities.

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

3 Public Hearings conducted by t he Commission are held in conjunction with a regular monthly meeting. The Commission meets on the first Thursday of the month in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 555 Santa Clara Street. The meetings begin at 7:00 p.m.

The first public hearing will be conducted to receive input and comments on the City's needs and priorities. This input will be considered by the City in the development of the Consolidated Plan.

The second public hearing will be conducted after the City has prepared a draft of the Consolidated Plan. The purpose of the public hearing will be to receive comments and input on the draft Consolidated Plan from residents and other interested parties.

2. Public Notice
Beginning at least fourteen (14) days prior to each public hearing – unless HUD issues guidance calling for a shorter number of calendar days – the City of Vallejo will publish a notice at least twice in the local newspaper. The notice will indicate the place, time, and location of the public hearing. The notice will provide information concerning the purpose of the public hearing.

The public notice for the proposed Consolidated Plan will include a summary of the Plan. The summary will indicate the amount of assistance the City expects to receive (CDBG and HOME grant funds and program income), the range of activities that may be undertaken, and the estimated amount of funds that will benefit very low-/moderate and low-income persons. This summary will describe the contents and purposes of the Consolidated Plan. It will also list the locations where the Consolidated Plan will be available for examination.

3. Comment Period
The City of Vallejo will consider any comments or views of residents or other interested parties received in writing or orally at public hearings. W ritten comments on the draft Consolidated Plan will be accepted by the city for a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days The 30-day period will start on the date the following the second public hearing or the date the document is made available to the public.

The public notice will inform the public about the availability of documents and the dates of the 30-day comment period. Comments may be submitted by mail, email, or hand-delivered to the office of the Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department, 200 Georgia Street, Vallejo, CA 94590.

The City will consider all comments received. The City will respond to all comments, in writing, within fifteen (15) calendar days. All comments and responses will be incorporated into the document.

B. Annual Action Plan [91.220]

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

4 The five Annual Action Plans supporting the Consolidated Plan describe the activities and projects the City will undertake during the next program year to address priority needs and objectives. Vallejo’s program year begins July 1 of each year and con cludes on June 30 of the following year. The Annual Action Plan is designed to collect the information required by the Consolidated Plan regulations in §91 Subpart C.

The Annual Action Plan’s description of activities includes estimat es of the number and type of persons and families that will benefit from the proposed activities; the specific local objectives and priority needs (identified in accordance with § 91.215) that will be addressed by the activities using CDBG and HOME grant funds and program income the City expects to receive during the program year; proposed accomplishments; and a target date for completion of the activity. The plan also describes the reasons for the allocation priorities and identifies any obstacles to addressing underserved needs.

The Plan must be submitted to HUD for approval no later than 45 days before the beginning of the next program year. The First-Year Annual Action Plan is submitted in conjunction with the Consolidated Plan.

1. Public Hearings
The City of Vallejo will conduct a minimum of two public hearings each year on its Annual Plans.

The first public hearing will be conducted to receive comments and input on housing and community development needs and proposed activities. The purpose of the public hearing will be to determine if the needs identified in the Consolidated Plan may have changed significantly and what, if any, changes in proposed activities may be appropriate.

The second public hearing will be conducted after the City has prepared a draft of the Action Plan. The second public hearing will be conducted to receive comment and input on the proposed Annual Plan(s).

3. Comment Period
The City of Vallejo will consider any comments or views of residents or other interested parties received in writing or orally at public hearings. Written comments on the draft Annual Action Plan will be accepted by the city for a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days The 30-day period will start on the date the following the second public hearing or the date the document is made available to the public.

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

5 The public notice will inform the public about the availability of documents and the dates of the 30-day comment period. Comments may be submitted by mail, email, or hand-delivered to the office of the Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department, 200 Georgia Street, Vallejo, CA 94590.

The City will consider all comments received. The City will respond to all comments, in writing, within fifteen (15) calendar days. All comments and responses will be incorporated into the document.

C. Performance Reports [§91.105d)]

The City of Vallejo submits a Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) to HUD no later than 45 days after the end of each program year. The CAPER explains how the City carried out its housing and community development strategies, projects, and activities. The City strives to provide data and narratives in the CAPER that clearly describe the goals of each activity and project; how effective the City and its partners were in achi eving those goals; who and how many persons were served; and where those activities and projects occurred.

1. Public Hearings
The City of Vallejo will conduct at least one public hearing on any performance report required by HUD. The purpose of the public hearing will be to receive comment and input on the contents of the draft performance report.

The notice will indicate the place, time, and location of the public hearing. The notice will provide sufficient information on the purpose of the public hearing.

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

6 The City will consider all comments received. The City will respond to all comments, in writing, within fifteen (15) calendar days. All comments and responses will be incorporated into the document.

D. Substantial Amendments [§91.105(c)]

All CDBG and HOME projects and activities must tie to a goal identified in the Consolidated Plan. The City will prepare and submit to HUD a Substantial Amendment to the Consolidated Plan if it wishes to add a goal not listed in Section SP -45 of the Consolidated Plan.

The City will prepare and submit a Substantial Amendment to an Annual Action Plan if it proposes to transfer funds equal to or greater than forty Percent (40%) of the annual allocation from one eligible activity to another eligible activity.

Amendments that are NOT substantial are increases or decreases in the amount of funds allocated to an approved project or activity to achieve the original purpose of the project or activity if the amount of funding being transferred is less than forty percent (40%) of the annual allocation.

1. Public Hearings
The City of Vallejo will conduct at least one public hearing on any proposed substantial amendment. The purpose of the public hearing will be to receive comment and input on the contents of the substantial amendment.

2. Public Notice

Beginning at least fourteen (14) days prior to each public hearing – unless HUD issues guidance calling for a shorter number of calendar days – the City of Vallejo will publish a notice at least twice in the local newspaper. The notice will indicate the place, time, and location of the public hearing. The notice will provide information concerning the purpose of the public hearing.

The notice will indicate the place, time, and location of the public hearing. The notice will provide information on the purpose of the public hearing.

The 30-day period will start on the date the following the second public hearing or the date the document is made available to the public.

The public notice will inform the public about the availability of documents and the dates of the 30-day comment period. Comments may be submitted by mail, email,

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

7 or hand-delivered to the office of the Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department, 200 Georgia Street, Vallejo, CA 94590.

The City will consider all comments received. The City will respond to all comments, in writing, within fifteen (15) calendar days. All comments and responses will be incorporated into the document.

IV. PUBLIC NOTICE [§91.105(e)(2)]

At least fourteen (14) calendar days prior to each public hearing, or for a shorter number of calendar days as may be allowed by HUD, the City of Vallejo will provide local Chambers of Commerce, ethnic organizations, the Vallejo Housing Authority, the public libraries, and interested persons, with a copy of the public notice.

These locations will include at least the following - the City Clerk's Office of City Hall, the Housing and Community Development Division of the City of Vallejo, and local public libraries.

V. COMMENT PERIODS

• The Consolidated Plan and First -Year Action Plan – a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days
• Year 2-5 Annual Action Plans – a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days • Performance Reports – a minimum of fifteen (15) calendar days • Substantial amendments – a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days

The City may provide comment periods shorter than 30 or fifteen days, pursuant to waivers as may be granted by HUD.

VI. AVAILABILITY OF DOCUMENTS [§91.105(g) & (h)]

The Consolidated Plan, Annual Plan, Performance Report, and amendments to any of these documents will be available to the public at the City Clerk's Office and Housing and Community Development Division Office during normal working hours, and on the City’s Internet Website. The documents will be provided to the interested party within three (3) working days of their request. The Consolidated Plan and related documents will be made available in a form accessible to persons with disabilities, upon request to the Housing and Community Development Division Office during normal working hours.

The documents will be retained for at least five (5) years.

A minimum of ten (10) free copies of the Consolidated Plan and related documents will be made available to residents or other interested parties.

VII. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE [§91.105(i)]

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

8 The City of Vallejo provide s up to forty (40) hours per year of technical assistance to organizations that represent very low-/moderate and low -income persons that request assistance in developing proposals for CDBG or HOME funding assistance . This technical assistance may include:

• publishing instructions on how to fill out forms/applications; ▪ conducting workshops to explain: (1) the process for submitting proposals and (2) federal and local rules and requirements;
• providing comments and advice on the telephone or in meetings; and • reviewing and commenting on draft proposals.

The City will also provide ongoing assistance to CDBG Program- and HOME Program - funded agencies as needed to help them maintain their eligibility for full funding.

The City may provide additional (beyond forty (40) hours) technical assistance if, in the opinion of the City Manager, staff time is available. up to forty (40) hours per year of

VII. ASSISTANCE TO NON-ENGLISH SPEAKING [§91.101(e)(4)]

Upon request from a resident or interested party or w hen City staff reasonably expects a significant number of non -English speaking residents to participate at a public hearing, the City will make a translator available at the meeting.

VIII. DISPLACEMENT [§91.105(b)(1)(ii)]

The federal regulations stipulate that the City will include in its Citizen Participation Plan the City's "plans to minimize displacement of persons and to assist any persons displaced, specifying the types and levels of assistance ..."

The City of Vallejo has adopted , pursuant to (Resolution 81-723), a General Relocation Plan.

This plan meets the requirements of 24 CFR 91.105(b)(1). A copy of the City’s General Relocation Plan is available for review on the web at
https://mitigatehazards.com/solanohmp/hmp/ .

CITY OF VALLEJO

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN

I. OVERVIEW

The City of Vallejo invites comments from its citizens on critical planning issues and decisions for the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs. The City commits to provide the general public and interested and affected persons with ample notification of these critical actions and ample time to comment. Meetings will take place at Vallejo City Hall, remotely, or at other accessible locations in the community.

At a minimum, the Citizen Participation Plan shall apply to the following: (1) the Consolidated Plan, (2) the Annual Plan, (3) Performance Reports, and (4) substantial amendments to the above.

The City of Vallejo will prepare a Five-Year Consolidated Plan. The City may prepare an Annual Plan each fiscal year or the City may prepare multiple Annual Plans in one fiscal year.

Performance Reports shall be prepared as required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and shall also be subject to the provisions of the Citizen Participation Plan.

The City of Vallejo may consider substantial amendments to any of these plans or documents. In such cases, the City will invite public comments.

The subsequent sections of the Citizen Participation Plan address the specifics of how and when the public will be notified, how they may provide comments, how long they will have to comment, and where documents will be available.

II. PUBLIC HEARINGS

A. Consolidated Plan

Every five years, the City of Vallejo shall conduct at least two public hearings on its Consolidated Plan. The public hearings may be conducted by the Housing and Community Development Commission and/or the City Council. The first public hearing shall be conducted to receive input and comments on the City's needs and priorities. This input shall be considered by the City in the development of the Consolidated Plan.

1 The second public hearing shall be conducted after the City has prepared a draft of the Consolidated Plan. The purpose of the public hearing shall be to receive comments and input on the draft Consolidated Plan.

B. Annual Plan

The City of Vallejo shall conduct at least two public hearings every year on its Annual Plans. The City may adopt multiple Annual Plans in one year. For example, in Fiscal Year 2020/21, the City may adopt Annual Plans for Fiscal Year 2013/14 2020/21and 2021/22.

The first public hearing shall be conducted to receive comments and input on housing and community development needs and proposed activities. The purpose of the public hearing shall be to determine how the needs may have significantly changed from those identified in the Consolidated Plan and what, if any, changes in proposed activities may be appropriate.

The second public hearing shall be conducted to receive comment and input on the proposed Annual Plan(s).

C. Performance Reports

The City of Vallejo shall conduct at least one public hearing on any performance report required by HUD. The purpose of the public hearing shall be to receive comment and input on the contents of the draft performance report.

D. Substantial Amendments

A substantial amendment is defined as the addition or deletion of any program or activity. A substantial amendment also includes any change in statistical data of 20% twenty percent or more in the Consolidated Plan, Annual Plan, or Performance Report.

Amendments that are NOT substantial are: increases or decreases in the amount of funds allocated to an approved project or activity, to achieve the original purpose of the project or activity.

At least one public hearing is required for a substantial amendment to any of the plans or documents.

2 III. PUBLIC NOTICE

Beginning at least fourteen (14) days prior to each public hearing, or for a shorter number of calendar days as may be allowed by HUD, the City of Vallejo shall publish a notice in the local newspaper. The notice shall indicate the place, time, and location of the public hearing.

The notice shall provide sufficient information on the purpose of the public hearing.

At least fourteen calendar days prior to each public hearing, or for a shorter number of calendar days as may be allowed by HUD, the City of Vallejo shall provide local Chambers of Commerce, ethnic organizations, the Vallejo Housing Authority, the public libraries, and interested persons, with a copy of the public notice.

The public notice for the proposed Consolidated Plan will include a summary of the Plan. It shall indicate the amount of assistance the City expects to receive (grant funds and program income), the range of activities that may be undertaken, and the estimated amount of funds that will benefit very low- and low-income persons. This summary shall describe the contents and purposes of the Consolidated Plan. It shall also list the locations where the Consolidated Plan will be available for examination. These locations shall include at least the following - the City Clerk's Office of City Hall, the Housing and Community Development Division of the City of Vallejo, and local public libraries.

IV. COMMENT PERIOD

The City of Vallejo shall provide a period of at least thirty calendar days to receive comments on the draft Consolidated Plan, draft Annual Plan, and on any substantial amendments. The 30-day period may start on the date the document is available to the public. The City will also provide public notice regarding the availability of documents and the dates of the 30-day comment period.

For performance the City shall provide at least fifteen calendar days to receive public comment.

The City shall consider all comments received. The City shall respond to all complaints, in writing, within fifteen calendar days. All comments and responses shall be incorporated into the document.

The City may provide comment periods shorter than 30 or fifteen days, pursuant to waivers as may be granted by HUD.

V. AVAILABILITY OF DOCUMENTS

The Consolidated Plan, Annual Plan, Performance Report, and amendments to any of these documents shall be available to the public at the City Clerk's Office and Housing and

3 Community Development Division Office during normal working hours, and on the City’s Internet Website. The documents shall be provided to the interested party within three (3) working days of their request.

The documents shall be retained for at least five years.

The City shall make available at least ten (10) free copies of the Consolidated Plan to local residents or organizations.

VI. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

The City of Vallejo shall provide up to hours per year of technical assistance to organizations that represent very low- and low-income persons. This technical assistance may include:

- publishing instructions on how to fill out forms/applications;

- conducting workshops to explain: (1) the process for submitting proposals and (2) federal and local requirements;

- providing comments and advice on the telephone or in meetings; and

- reviewing and commenting on draft proposals.

The City shall also provide ongoing assistance to CDBG Program- and HOME Program- funded agencies as needed to help them maintain their eligibility for full funding.

The City may provide additional (beyond forty hours) technical assistance if, in the opinion of the City Manager, staff time is available.

VII. ASSISTANCE TO NON-ENGLISH SPEAKING

When City staff reasonably expects a significant number of non-English speaking residents to participate at a public hearing, the City will make a translator available at the meeting.

VIII. DISPLACEMENT

The federal regulations stipulate that the City shall include in its Citizen Participation Plan the City's "plans to minimize displacement of persons and to assist any persons displaced, specifying the types and levels of assistance ..."

The City of Vallejo has adopted, pursuant to (Resolution 81-723), a General Relocation Plan. This plan meets the requirements of 24 CFR 91.105(b)(1).

4 CONSENT CALENDAR 8.I.

DATE: March 25, 2025
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Cesar Orozco, Planning Manager-Current Development SUBJECT: ADOPT A RESOLUTION DENYING THE APPEAL (APP24-0004) OF THE

ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AND LANDMARK COMMISSION'S DECISION TO

APPROVE, AND HEREBY GRANTING, A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (COA22-0007) AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (DVR22-0031) TO ALLOW THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE AT 128 CAROLINA STREET,

AFTER FINDING THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER

THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15303 – NEW CONSTRUCTION OR CONVERSION OF SMALL

STRUCTURES

RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to approve a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA22-0007) and Development Review (DVR22-0031) to Allow the Development of a New Single-Family Residence at 128 Carolina Street (APN:
0055-121-120)

REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council deny the appeal and grant the Certificate of Appropriateness and Development Review approval for the following reasons: (1) the project is consistent with the General Plan 2040 and all applicable provisions of the Vallejo Municipal Code (VMC); (2) the project complies with all objective development standards and would contribute to the city’s housing stock; (3) of the project would provide investment on a currently vacant site within an established neighborhood; and (4) the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission appropriately made all the required findings to grant the subject Certificate of Appropriateness, Development review, and related actions.

BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
On March 11, 2025, the City Council unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness and Development review to allow the development of a new single-family residence on a vacant site located at 128 Carolina Street. As part of their motion, Council directed staff to correct the resolution and revise the conditions of approval for the project. The corrected resolution and revised conditions of approval are attached.

FISCAL IMPACT
Approval of the project would provide property tax revenues to the City both directly from the subject property development, and indirectly through potential property value increases resulting from development of a currently vacant site and potential further investment in the surrounding area

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §21000, et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §15000, et seq.) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303(c) (Class 3, “New Construction or Conversion of Small

Date: March 25, 2025
Subject: ADOPT A RESOLUTION DENYING THE APPEAL (APP24-0004) OF THE

ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AND LANDMARK COMMISSION'S DECISION TO

APPROVE, AND HEREBY GRANTING, A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (COA22-0007) AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (DVR22-0031) TO ALLOW THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE AT 128 CAROLINA

STREET, AFTER FINDING THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL

REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15303 – NEW CONSTRUCTION OR

CONVERSION OF SMALL STRUCTURES

Page 2 ends

Structures”). The Project proposes the construction of a new single-family residence in a residential district.

None of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply, as follows: (a) the site is located in an urbanized area with no environmentally sensitive habitats or species of concern on the site, (b) there has been no successive effort to intensity land uses in the area and thus there is no significant cumulative impact that would result from successive projects of the same type over time, (c) there are no significant effects due to unusual circumstances that would pose a reasonable possibility of having a significant effect on the environment, (d) the Project is not located near a scenic highway, (e) the Project site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, and (f) the Project is consistent with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings (1995), Weeks and Grimmer, and therefore would not adversely affect any historical resource.

ATTACHMENTS

1. APP24-0003 - Resolution_CAO Stamp_Revised_Redline

2. Exhibit A - CarolinaSt.128.Conditions of Approval_Revised_Redline

3. APP24-0003 - Resolution_CAO Stamp_Revised_Clean

4. Exhibit A - CarolinaSt.128.Conditions of Approval_Revised_Clean_

CONTACT
Cesar Orozco, Planning Manager - Current Development
[email protected]

RESOLUTION NO. 25-_____ N.C.

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VALLEJO DENYING THE APPEAL (APP24-0004) OF THE ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE AND LANDMARK COMMISSION’S DECISION TO APPROVE, AND HEREBY GRANTING, A CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (COA22-0007) AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (DVR22-0031) TO ALLOW THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW SINGLE- FAMILY RESIDENCE AT 128 CAROLINA STREET, AFTER FINDING THE PROJECT

EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15303 – NEW CONSTRUCTION OR CONVERSION OF SMALL

STRUCTURES

APN: 0055-121-120

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

RECITALS

WHEREAS, on August 29, 2017, the City Council adopted General Plan 2040; and

WHEREAS, the property which is the subject of the above-referenced proposed entitlements (the “Subject Property)”) has a General Plan 2040 land use designation of Primarily Single-Family; and

WHEREAS, on July 22, 2021, the City Council adopted a new Zoning Code and Zoning Map; and

WHEREAS, the Subject Property is located in the Residential Low Density Zoning District; and

WHEREAS, on August 22, 2022, Rob Kelly and Mario Vazquez, on behalf of Luis Rivera, the property owner, filed an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA22-0007) and Development Review (DVR#22-0031) (“application”), Application”), seeking approval to construct a new single-family dwelling and associated site improvements on a vacant lot at 128 Carolina Street (APN:0055-121-120) located in the St. Vincent’s Historic District; and

WHEREAS, on November 7, 2024, pursuant to Vallejo Municipal Code (VMC) Section16Section 16.602.08(A), notice of thisa public hearing before the Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission was published in the Times Herald and mailed to all active neighborhood groups and property owners within 500 feet of the subject propertySubject Property and electronically mailed to the members of the Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission and to the applicant; and

ATTACHMENT 1

WHEREAS, on November 21, 2024, the City of Vallejo Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission after giving all public notices required by State law and the Vallejo Municipal Code, conducted a duly noticed public hearing; and

WHEREAS, the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission considered testimonypublic comments and evidence, both written and oral, provided at the public hearing, as well as other documents contained in the recordRecord of proceedingsProceedings relating to the Project, which recordRecord is maintained in the offices of the City of Vallejo Planning Division; and

WHEREAS, on December 2, 2024, Liana Berube and Abbey Schlageter, on behalf of themselves and other neighbors on thetheir block, filed an appeal requesting that the City Council overturn the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness and Development Review; and

WHEREAS, on February 6, 2025, notice of the March 11, 2025 public hearing before the City Council was published in the Times Herald, mailed to all active neighborhood groups, all property owners within 500 feet of the Subject Property, and any other interested parties, and electronically mailed to the applicant, appellant, the Mayor and the members of the City Council; and

WHEREAS, the Appeal came before the City Council for a de novo public hearing on March 11, 2025; and

WHEREAS, the Appellant, the Applicant, supporters of the application, those opposed to the Application and interested and neutral parties were given ample opportunity to participate in the public hearing by submitting oral and/or written comments prior to the close of the public hearing; and

WHEREAS, the City Council considered the testimony and evidence, both written and oral, provided at the March 11, 2025 public hearing, as well as all other evidence and information contained in the Record of Proceedings, which Record is maintained in the offices of the City of Vallejo Planning Division; and

WHEREAS, following the close of the public hearing of March 11, 2025, the City Council voted unanimously to deny the appeal of the Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission’s decision to approve, and to grant, a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA22- 0007) and Development Review (DVR22-0031) to allow the development of a new single- family residence at 128 Carolina Street, subject to revised conditions of approval and directed staff to prepare a resolution in accordance therewith.

NOW THEREFORE, theBE IT RESOLVED that the City Council, having heard, considered and weighed all the evidence in the Record presented on behalf of all the parties and being fully informed of the Application, the City Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission’s decision, and the Appeal, hereby makes the following findings and determinations:

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I. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS

The Record of Proceedings (“Record”) upon which the City Council bases its decision on the Projectproject at issue herein, includes, but is not limited to: (1) the staff reports, City files, records and other documents, prepared for and/or

1. The application, including all submitted to the City relating to the Project; (3)designs, plans, studies, data and correspondence submitted to the City in connection with the Project;

2. The environmental document (categorical exemption) prepared for the evidence, facts, findingsproject;

3. The notice of appeal and all accompanying statements and materials;

4. All staff reports, decision letters and other determinations set forth in this resolution; (4documentation and information produced by or on behalf of the City in connection with the Project;

5. All documentary and oral evidence received at the public hearings regarding the Project;

6. All matters of common knowledge and all official enactments and acts of the City, including without limitation: (a) the City of Vallejo General Plan 2040 and its related EIR; (5b) the 2021 Zoning Code and its Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration; (c) the Vallejo Municipal Code; (d) and its related environmental documents; (6) all designs, plans, studies, data and correspondence submitted to the City in connection with the Project; (e7) all documentary and oral evidence received at the public hearing regarding the Project; and (8) all other matters of common knowledge to the City Council including, but not limited to, City,(f) other applicable City of Vallejo policies and regulations; and (g) all applicable state, and federal laws, policies, rules, regulations, reports, records and projections related to development within the City of Vallejo and its surrounding areas; and.

WHEREAS, WHEREAS, Said the Custodian of Record is the City Clerk of the City of Vallejo, is maintained in the offices of City of Vallejo Planning and Development Services Division, 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, California 94590.

NOW THEREFORE, based on the Record, the City Council hereby makes the following findings:

I.II. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDING

The Project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (((CEQA) (Public Resources Code §21000, et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §15000, et seq.) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303(c) (Class 3, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”). The Project proposes the construction of a new single-family residence in a residential district.

None of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply, as follows: (a) the Project site is located in an urbanized area with no environmentally sensitive habitats or species of concern on the sitenot located in an environmentally sensitive area, (b) there are no cumulative impactsthere has been no successive effort to intensity land uses in the area and thus there is no significant cumulative impact from successive projects of the same type over time, (c) there are no significant effects due to unusual circumstances that Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
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would pose a reasonable possibility of having a significant effect on the environment, (d) the Project is not located near a scenic highway,, (e) the Project site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, and (f) the Project is consistent with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings (1995), Weeks and Grimmer, and therefore the Project would not adversely affect any historical resource.

II.III. FINDINGS RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF THE CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS PERMIT (VMC Section 16.614.09.E)

The City Council hereby finds that:

A. The Project is in conformance with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties applicable to the Project and any ordinance designating the Historic District or Landmark.

FACTS IN SUPPORT: The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation are applicable to the Project and are as follows:

1) A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use that requires minimal change to its distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships.

2) The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or alteration of features, spaces and spatial relationships that characterize a property will be avoided.

Not Applicable/Unenforceable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years. There are no known records available to confirm the historic character of the property and in any event, the Housing Accountability Act limits the City’s ability to require design features for the new construction beyond the objective requirements outlined in the VMC.

Not Applicable, as the property has been vacant for over 40 years.

3) Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or elements from other historic properties, will not be undertaken.

Not Applicable/UnenforceableAgree. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of the property, aside from historical mapping (Sandborn Maps). The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and objective design requirements outlined in the VMC (which are the only standards that can be applied to new residential development in accordance with the Housing Accountability Act).

It should be noted that the proposed architectural style of the new construction is compatible with the features, size, scale, and massing of the surrounding Formatted: Numbered + Level: 1 + Numbering Style: I,
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neighborhood, which would help to protect the integrity of historic district. The building will be constructed with modern materials such as Hardie board siding and metal garage doors which will help the property be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Recreating a false sense of historical features is discouraged with new construction. The proposed single-family residence aims to have similar scale and mass, height, setbacks and materials as homes within the district, without imitating historical features and will therefore not create a false sense of historical development.

4) Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their own right will be retained and preserved.

Not Applicable/Unenforceable.. The site has been vacant for over 40 years and has no historical significance.

5) Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize a property will be preserved.

Not Applicable/Unenforceable.. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of any former structuresthe previous structure on the property. The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and objective design requirements outlined in the VMC (which are the only standards that can be applied to new residential development in accordance with the Housing Accountability Act)..

6) Deteriorated historic features will be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature will match the old in design, color, texture and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing features will be substantiated by documentary and physical evidence.

Not Applicable/Unenforceable.. There are no structures on the site and no replacement or repair of historic features is proposed.

7) Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used.

Not Applicable. There are no structures or historic materials on the site.

8) Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken.

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9) New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not destroy historic materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize the property. The new work will be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic materials, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the property and its environment.

Not Applicable/Unenforceable.. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of any former structures on the property. The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and objective design requirements outlined in the VMC (which are the only standards that can be applied to new residential development in accordance with the Housing Accountability Act)..

10) New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken in such a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired.

Not Applicable/Unenforceable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of any former structures on the property. The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and objective design requirements outlined in the VMC (which are the only standards that can be applied to new residential development in accordance with the Housing Accountability Act).

Not Applicable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years.

B. For projects located in a Historic District, the proposed project is consistent with any conservation plan or specific plan adopted for the Historic District.

The Project site is within the St. Vincent’s Historic District for which there is no adopted conservation plan or specific plan.

C. For projects that require demolition, the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission shall also find, as applicable: (a) It is not feasible to preserve or restore the structure after considering alternatives and balancing interest in preservation versus cost. (b) The retention of the structure constitutes a hazard to public safety. (c) The structure is a deterrent to a major improvement program which substantially benefits the City. (4) Retention of the structure in the judgment of the commission is not in the interest of the majority within the Historic District.

Not applicable. There is no demolition proposed as part of this Project.

III.IV. FINDINGS RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (VMC Section 16.605.03)

1. Complies with all applicable specific standards and criteria of this Zoning Code.

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The proposed Project is located on a property zoned Residential Low Density (RLD).

The RLD zone is intended for low-density residential areas in which permanent single unit residences, including detached and attached (duplexes and townhouses) units, are the primary use. The Project is consistent with the RLD zoning district in terms of land use, in that it involves the construction of a new single-family residence within an established neighborhood. The Project is consistent with the applicable development standards, such as setbacks, lot coverage, building height, objective design standards, etc., as outlined in VMC Title 16, as proposed and conditioned.

2. Is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable approved Specific Plan or Planned Development.

The site has a General Plan designation of Primarily Single Family (R-SF), which is consistent with the current RLD zoning of the site. The R-SF General Plan designation applies to residential neighborhoods primarily characterized by detached single‐ family homes. Dwellings typically have front and rear yards, as well as side setbacks. Permitted land uses include single‐family homes, in some instances duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and small commercial spaces, and public facilities such as schools, religious institutions, parks, and other community facilities appropriate within a residential neighborhood. The maximum permitted residential density in the R‐SF designation is 12 dwelling units per acre. The proposed new dwelling is consistent with the permitted density range. The Project is consistent with R-SF land use designation in that it involves the construction of a single-family residence within an established neighborhood that is primarily characterized by a mixture of detached single-family residences or multifamily residential. The buildings and its uses are consistent with applicable actions and policies of the General Plan, such as Policy NBE-1.11 - Historic Districts and NBE-2.8 - Infill Development, and the General Plan Designation.

3. Complies with any design conditions, standards, or requirements imposed by a discretionary approval including but not limited to a Major or Minor Use Permit, Variance, Specific Plan, Planned Development, or tentative map applicable to the project or the location where it is proposed.

The proposed single-family residence and associated improvements are consistent with the applicable development standards outlined in VMC Title 16 as proposed and conditioned. A Minor Use Permit is required to develop on a slope greater than 15%, which is a condition of approval and will be processed by the Director subsequent to this action, should Council grant its approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness and Development Review.

4. Is in substantial compliance with any applicable adopted design guidelines.

VMC Section 16.202.03 – Design Standards for single-unit housing (detached and attached), provides objective design standards as detailed in Table 3 of Attachment

2. As proposed, the dwelling complies with all applicable development and design standards for single-unit dwellings within the RLD zone.

5. Will serve to achieve groupings of structures that are well related one to another and which, taken together, will result in a well-composed urban design, with consideration given to site, height, arrangement, texture, material, color and appurtenances, the relation of these factors to other structures in the immediate area, and the relation of the development to the total setting as

seen from key points in the surrounding area; only elements of design which have some significant relationship to outside appearance shall be considered.

The proposed dwelling has been designed with consideration to the existing structures within the nearby vicinity. The dwelling features comparable setbacks (to the extent feasible with current setback standards) and massing and incorporates desirable features such as a covered front porch, high degree of fenestration, quality exterior materials, and landscaping improvements which overall relate well to other structures in the neighborhood. The new dwelling will fill a currently vacant lot within an existing neighborhood and will work to complete the urban framework of the neighborhood.

6. Will be of a quality and demonstrates thoughtful site planning that will serve to protect the value of private and public investments in the area.

The proposed Project demonstrates thoughtful site planning in that it meets all applicable development standards required and as conditioned, and the proposed dwelling is sited to blend with the existing adjacent structures with respect to setback, massing, and architectural design. Therefore, it will serve to protect the value of private and public investments in the area.

7. That the project has been reviewed in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, if applicable, and the requirements of this Chapter.

The proposed Project is exempt under Section 15303 (a) (Class 3 “New Construction”) of the CEQA Guidelines. Furthermore, the City has considered whether any of the exceptions found under Section 15300.2 of the CEQA Guidelines exist, which would preclude the Project from being categorically exempt from CEQA.

The Project is consistent with Section 15300.2 as follows: (a) the site is not located in an environmentally sensitive area, (b) there are no cumulative impacts, (c) there are no significant effects due to unusual circumstances, (d) the Project is not located near a scenic highway, (e) the Project site is not located on an open a hazardous waste site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, and (f) the Project would not adversely affect any historical resource.

IV.V. FINDINGS RELEVANT TO THE DENIAL OF THE APPEAL

The appellant provided a project comment letter prior to the initial hearing on November 21, 2024. The main arguments are restated below in bold, with staff’s responses following in italics.

1. No precedent of a two-story building on the lot; the original structure cannot be rebuilt in original dimensions due to current code. The cottage that originally existed on the property was no larger than 700 square feet. The footprint of the historic building was nearly identical to the neighboring cottage, according to a 1919 Sanborn map. We are in a historically protected neighborhood, and the average home in this neighborhood on a full lot is 1,450 sqft. The proposed home, at over 1700 sqft of living space plus 280 sqft attached garage on a non- conforming half lot, is grossly disproportionate to the norm of the area even if it was on a full lot, which it’s not. The proposed house would also be the only building from the start of Carolina St at Butte St all the way to Sacramento St to be set back from the street front. It would be the only single family home within the immediate area (100 block of Carolina St, the 100 block of Butte St, and the 100 block of Branciforte St) to be taller than 1.5 stories. No discussion of this was brought up in the AHLC meeting on Nov 21, 2024, while the next proposal Formatted: Numbered + Level: 1 + Numbering Style: I,
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under review, on a lot just two blocks away, was discussed extensively and unfavorably for such criteria, including referencing Sanborn maps to decide on appropriateness. Not only is the proposed building at 128 Carolina St an anomaly with the norms of the area, but the allowed discussion and reasoning of the AHLC was blatantly inconsistent during the Nov 21 hearing.

FindingsStaff Response: The RLD zoning for the site allows for a single-family dwelling to be built, subject to the development standards of the district (VMC Chapter 16.202 – Residential Districts). As proposed and conditioned, the project would be consistent with all the applicable development standards, including maximum building height, front, interior side and rear setbacks for the residence and garage, and maximum lot coverage. The proposed building height of 24 feet is within the maximum allowable building height of 35 feet. The proposed building front yard setback of 35 feet meets the minimum front yard setback of 15 feet. The proposed side yard setback of 5 feet complies with the “narrow lot” requirement which allows for setbacks that are 10% the lot width (or 3-feet for this site, as described in VMC Section 16.202.02.5).

In addition, all residential development with the City must comply with California Housing Accountability Act (Government Code Section 65589.5), including that in an historic district. The Housing Accountability Act limits a local government’s ability to deny, reduce the density of, or make infeasible housing development projects, that are consistent with objective local development standards and contribute to meeting housing need. The project as proposed, complies not only with all development standards required, but also with all applicable objective design standards set forth in the VMC, and as such, the decision making body has no legal authority to require any design modiﬁcations beyond the objective requirements outlined in the VMC.

FindingsStaff Response: A survey is not required for a Certificate of Appropriateness application; however, a 'boundary survey' is required for a Development Review application. According to the Planning Division's published application submittal checklist, the boundary survey shall: 1) be prepared by a licensed California Surveyor or Civil Engineer licensed to perform survey; 2) include a drawing to scale (utilizing an Engineer’s Scale and a Scale Bar); 3) include the date of survey preparation and any subsequent revisions; 4) include the street address and Assessor’s Parcel Map Number; and 5) include information on any existing easements. A boundary survey for the proposed project was submitted as part of the planning application, and it was

reviewed by staff and deemed to have met the submittal requirements for processing of the planning application.

Further, as part of a subsequent building permit review, the Building Division will also require submittal of a 'survey report' since this project involves new construction at five- feet from the property line (requirement is described in the Building Division's published "C-03R Checklist for New Residential Construction"). As a standard practice in Vallejo, once a building permit has been issued and construction has commenced, the Building Division will require a signed letter from the engineer or surveyor to confirm the accuracy of the foundation in accordance with approved plans.

Lastly, it should be noted that a "record of survey" as described in the California Business and Professional Code Section 8762 referenced by the appellant, is only required when certain discrepancies exist and is not required to be recorded for every property.

3. The only access to this lot for materials and vehicles is an alley which is heavily damaged and not maintained on both Carolina and Florida streets in this block, and for many neighbors, this is the only access to their property. Due to this, for years neighbors have been dragging huge chunks of displaced concrete as well as pouring concrete to fill holes so people will not lose their oil pans, or worse.

This alley is most of the neighbors’ driveway. The construction vehicles would not only heavily damage the already severely compromised and unmaintained alley further, it would often block many neighbors’ collective access to their properties. It was stated at the Nov 21, 2024 AHLC meeting that the public right- of-way for most neighbors to access their properties off Lozier Alley would be blocked for an extended time frame. This includes houses on the alley that only are accessible via the alley. This is an issue of quality of life for everyone in the block who rely on the alley for access to their properties. What was not stated at the meeting was by blocking residents public right-of-way to their properties, first responders and other public services such as trash pickup would also be blocked. (CPC §148.2) This absolutely is a public health and safety issue for most houses on the block, but is especially crucial for houses located directly on the Alley with no other street access. Residents of the block who use Lozier Alley are will aware of the difficulties the dimensions and condition of the Alley present; despite what Public Works or other city employees may see on a map, we who have daily lived experiences of Lozier Alley know that it is often not even large enough for two small cars to pass, and is certainly not large far-fetched scenario: in mid November, one of the residences on Lozier Alley had a house fire and a fire truck had to drive down the Alley to access it; in fact, a fire truck had to return less than a week later for another emergency. If construction was going on, without question VFD would have been blocked from accessing a situation in which seconds can make the difference between houses burning, the whole block burning, and between life and death for occupants. On Nov 26, 2024, a medium sized truck hired by a neighbor was loading in a polite and respectful way, to the side of the alley, and made it impossible for even a small car to pass. Visitors who have parked as far to the side of the alley as possible have received notes threatening fines and/or towing from trash collectors due to blocking the alley. Furthermore, there is no possible way for the construction to not continuously obstruct the alley as the proposed building’s footprint goes up to the back of the lot. There is no place to pull in construction vehicles and work on the building simultaneously. In its current state and physical dimensions and restrictions, Lozier Alley cannot support the construction of the proposed structure.

FindingsStaff Response: Lozier Alley stretches the entire block and can be accessed by vehicles at either end. The Conditions of Approval have been revised to address these concerns. In particular, Condition 5.e has been revised to read as follows:

“Lozier Alley Vehicle Parking and Access. No contractor or construction worker vehicles shall be allowed to park in the alley at any time. All such vehicles shall be parked either on the Subject Property or on the public streets, except with the prior consent of the Public Works Director based on strict necessity--for example, to allow a concrete mixer when pouring concrete for the driveway.

Deliveries of construction materials are permitted either to park on the edge of the alley for purposes of loading and unloading only, provided they occur within a two-hour window or less. Any time in excess of such two-hour window shall be based on strict necessity and shall require the prior consent of the Public Works Director or designee.”

During future construction of this site, if any construction equipment is required to be parked in any manner that would block access through the alley for an extended duration of time (typically considered 2-4 hours, or longer in some cases), then an encroachment permit would be deemed
necessary. Encroachment permits are issued by the Public Works Department, and they are intended to ensure appropriate traffic controls are in place in the event there is private, temporary occupancy of any public right of way.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council hereby finds and resolves that, based on substantial evidence in the record:

1. The above findings and recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein.

2. The Project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §21000, et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §15000, et seq.) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303(c) (Class 3, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”). The Project is exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15303(c) (Class 3, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”). The Project proposes the construction of a new single-family residence in a residential district.

None of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply, as follows:
(a) the site is located in an urbanized area with no environmentally sensitive habitats or species of concern on the site the site is not located in an environmentally sensitive area, (b) there has been no successive effort to intensity land uses in the area and thus there is no significant cumulative impact that would result from successive projects of the same type over timethere are no cumulative impacts, (c) there are no significant effects due to unusual circumstances that would pose a reasonable possibility of having a significant effect on the environment, (d) the Project is not located near a scenic highway, (e) the Project site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, and (f) the Project is consistent with the Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.75", No bullets or
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Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings (1995), Weeks and Grimmer, and therefore would not adversely affect any historical resource.

3. Appeal (APP24-0003) is DENIED.

4. The decision of the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission is UPHELD.

5. Certificate of Appropriateness (COA#22-0007) and Development Review (DVR#22-0031) are GRANTED, subject to the Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit A, and in accordance based on the analysis contained in the staff report and the findings contained herein and subject to the revised Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit A.

ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VALLEJO at an adjourneda regular meeting held on March 1125, 2025, with the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

________________________________________

ANDREA SOURCE
City of Vallejo City Council

Attest:

________________________________________

DAWN ABRAHAMSON, CITY CLERK
City of Vallejo City Clerk

Exhibit A

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL

CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATNESS (COA22-0007)
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (DVR22-0031)
128 CAROLINA STREET
APN # 0055-121-120

PERMIT DESCRIPTION: The project consists of a new two-story 1,732 square foot single-family residence, with an attached 280 square-foot one-car garage on a vacant lot within the Saint (St.) Vincent Historic District. Access to the garage will be off Lozier Alley. The residence façade will have Hardie lap siding and wood accent brackets both painted different shades of gray, with black vinyl windows. The project also includes 1,249.52 square feet of new landscaping along Carolina Street and throughout the site.

A. PLANNING DIVISION
Laura Solomon, Associate Planner | [email protected] | (707) 648-5391

Pre-Building Permit:

1. Prior to building permit submittal, this project must receive approval of the required Minor Use Permit (MUP23-0018) per Vallejo Municipal Code Chapter 16.212 - Hillside Development Standards.

2. Prior to building permit submittal, submit a numbered list to the Planning Division with a written response on how each condition of project approval contained in this report will be satisfied. The list should be submitted to the project planner who will coordinate further development of the project. The approved conditions shall also be included with the building permit set, after the cover sheet.

3. Prior to building permit issuance, the Planning Division shall confirm that the building permit drawings and subsequent construction substantially conform with the approved Planning entitlement.

4. Prior to building permit issuance, the Planning Division shall confirm that the building permit, grading permit and all other drawings and documents substantially conform with the documents and/or representations, whether oral or written that were presented to and approved by the Planning and Development Services Director. Pursuant to VMC 16.602.10.b the site plan, floor plans, building elevations and/or any additional information or representations, whether oral or written, indicating the proposed structure or manner of operation submitted with an application or submitted during the approval process shall be deemed conditions of approval. Any approval may be subject to requirements that the applicant guarantees, warranties, or ensures compliance with the plans and conditions in all respects.

During Construction:

2 e.d. Emissions. Construction and transport equipment shall be operated to minimize exhaust emissions. During construction, trucks and equipment should be running only when necessary.
f.e. Lozier Alley Vehicle Parking and Aaccess. No contractor or construction worker vehicles shall be allowed to park in the alley at any time. All such vehicles shall be parked either on the Subject Property or on the public streets, except with the prior consent of the Public Works Director based on strict necessity--for example, to allow a concrete mixer when pouring concrete for the driveway. An encroachment permit from the Public Works Department shall be required if any construction equipment will be parked in any manner that would block access through the alley for more than two hours, Deliveries of construction materials are permitted either to park on the edge of the alley for purposes of loading and unloading only, provided they occur within a two-hour window or less. Any time in excess of such two-hour window shall be based on strict necessity and shall require the prior consent of the Public Works Director or designee. g.f. Hours of Operation. Grading, and pile driving operations, construction, demolition, and related loading/unloading activities within ¼ mile of residential units shall be limited to between 8:00 am and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturdays. to ensure compliance with the requirements for construction activity in Subsection

16.502.12.D.1., Maximum Noise Level for Temporary Construction Activity, or as otherwise restricted as part of an approval. These time limitations may be extended for the delivery of construction materials only by approval of the Public Works Director or designee, provided such deliveries comply with all other requirements herein. No construction is to occur on Sundays or on federal holidays. h.g. Water Run-off. All water run-off from construction sites shall be controlled. During construction, trucks and equipment should be running only when necessary and shall comply with Chapter 12.41 of the Vallejo Municipal Code.

6. No person shall make, or cause to suffer, or permit to be made upon any public property, public right-of-way or private property, any excessive noise, annoying noise, amplified sound or vibrations that are physically annoying to reasonable persons of normal sensitivity or that are so harsh or so prolonged or unnatural or unusual in their use, time or place as to cause or contribute to the unnecessary and unreasonable discomfort of any persons of normal sensitivity located at the lot line of the property from which these noises emanate or that interfere with the peace and comfort of residents or their guests, or the operators or customers in places of business in the vicinity, or that may detrimentally or adversely affect such residences or places of business. (VMC Section 16.502.09 (C))

7. Construction, demolition, and related loading/unloading activities that may generate noise shall be limited to the following: 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. in Monday- Friday, Saturday 9 am- 6 pm. No construction is to occur on Sunday or federal holidays. Construction equipment noise levels shall not exceed the City’s maximum allowable noise levels

7. In the event that any archeological resources are discovered on the site during construction, all construction activities shall cease immediately, and a qualified archeologist and the City’s Chief Building Official shall be notified.

8. The fencing for construction sites shall not be installed until a building permit or grading permit has been issued and shall be removed prior to final inspection. In the event that the building permits expire before the construction is completed, the Planning and Development Services Director may issue a temporary use permit pursuant to Chapter 16.339, Temporary Uses, to allow the fencing to remain for a longer period of time. (VMC Section 16.505.08 (B))

Landscaping:

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Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5", No bullets or

3 9. Prior to first final building inspection, the landscape architect shall provide a Certificate of Completion and Certificate of Installation according to the Landscape Documentation in accordance with VMC Chapter 16.504.09: Water Efficient Landscape Requirements. The documentation shall include the following:
a. Irrigation Scheduling (VMC Section 16.504.11)
b. Schedule of Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance (VMC Section 16.504.08) c. Landscape Irrigation Audit Report (VMC Section 16.504.13) d. Soil Management Report (VMC Section 16.504.10)

11. All landscaping shall be permanently maintained in a healthy and thriving condition at all times, in compliance with the approved landscape plan. Irrigation systems and their components shall be maintained in a fully functional manner consistent with the original approved design or upgraded to reflect current best practices for water efficiency. Regular maintenance shall include but is not limited to:
a. Adjusting, checking, and repairing irrigation equipment; resetting automatic controllers; aerating and de-thatching turf areas; adding/replenishing fertilizer, mulch, soil amendments; insect control; the replacement of dead or diseased plants; pruning; watering; and weeding all landscaped areas.
b. The trimming of vegetation is necessary to maintain the effective functioning of solar energy facilities and passive solar design features installed both on site and on adjacent properties.
c. The trimming of vegetation is necessary to keep pedestrian and bicycle paths clear. (VMC Section 16.504.08 (A))
d. Pruning, cultivating, weeding, fertilizing, replacement of plants, and watering on a regular basis.
e. Pruning or removal of overgrown vegetation, cultivated or uncultivated, that may harbor rats, vermin, or other nuisances, or otherwise be detrimental to neighboring properties. f. The removal of dead, decayed, diseased, or hazardous trees, weeds and debris that create an unsightly appearance and may be dangerous to public safety and welfare or detrimental to neighboring properties or property values. Compliance shall be by removal, replacement, or maintenance.
g. Landscaping (trees, shrubs, ground cover, turf, etc.) which, due to accident, damage, disease, lack of maintenance, or other cause, fails to show a healthy appearance and growth, shall be replaced. Replacement plants shall conform to all standards that govern the original planting installation, approved landscaping plan, or as approved by the director. (VMC Section 16.504.08 (D))

12. Litter shall be removed from all landscaped areas in a timely fashion. (VMC Section16.504.08 (B))

13. Turf areas shall be mowed on a regular basis and be kept green. Accumulation of leaves, twigs, bark, and other similar materials shall be removed on a regular basis. Planting areas shall be kept free of weeds at all times. (VMC Section 16.504.08 (C))

Fences, Walls and Screening:

14. Fencing and walls shall be continuously maintained with no sign of rust or disrepair. Any graffiti shall be removed within forty-eight hours of discovery by the property manager. (VMC Section

16.505.02 (B)).

4 15. All exterior mechanical equipment, whether on a roof, on the side of a structure, or located on the ground, shall be screened from public view. Exterior mechanical equipment to be screened includes, without limitation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration equipment, plumbing lines, ductwork, transformers, smoke exhaust fans, water meters, backflow preventers, service entry section, back-up and emergency generators, and similar utility devices. a. Screening shall be architecturally integrated into the main structure with regard to materials, color, shape, and size to appear as an integral part of the building or structure. b. Equipment shall be screened on all sides, and screening materials shall be opaque. c. When screening with plants, evergreen types of vegetation shall be planted and maintained. Plant material sizes and types shall be selected and installed so that, at the time of building occupancy, such plants effectively screen their respective equipment. d. The use of wood expanded metal lath, and chain link for the purpose of screening is prohibited. (VMC Section 16.505.10)

Lighting:

16. Lighting shall be designed, located, and installed to be directed downward or toward structures, be shielded or fully shielded, and shall be well-maintained in order to prevent glare, light trespass (unwanted light on adjacent lots and public rights-of-way), and light pollution to the maximum extent feasible. No permanently installed lighting shall blink, flash, or be of unusually high intensity or brightness, as determined by the Planning and Development Services Director. (VMC Section 16.506.04 (B))

Overall Project:

17. This entitlement shall automatically expire within two years of the effective date of this approval, on March 25November 21, 20267, unless the use is exercised or extended (VMC Section

16.602.12 (A)). Issuance of a building permit shall constitute exercise of rights; provided, however, that, unless otherwise specified as a condition of project approval, the permit shall expire if:
a. The building permit expires.
b. Final inspection is not completed, or certificate of occupancy issued within the time specified as a condition of project approval.
c. The rights granted under the permit are not exercised within one year following the earliest to occur of the following: issuance of a certificate of occupancy; or if no certificate of occupancy is required, the last required final inspection for the new construction. (VMC Section 16.602.11 (B))

18. The Planning and Development Services Director may approve a one-year extension of any permit or approval granted for a residential or non-residential project under the Zoning Code upon receipt of a written application and fees received fifteen calendar days) before the expiration date with the required fee prior to expiration of the permit. (VMC Section 16.602.11 (C.1))

19. No change in the use for which a permit or other approval has been issued is permitted, in accordance with Government Code section 66411.7.

20. For new developments, utilities including, but not limited to, all electrical, telephone, cable television, fiber-optic cable, gas, water, sewer, irrigation/recycled water, and similar distribution lines providing direct service to a project shall be installed underground within the site. This requirement may be waived by the Planning and Development Services Director upon

5 determining that underground installation is infeasible, or the electrical line is otherwise exempt from an under-grounding requirement. (VMC Section 16.501.10)

21. Applicant shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend City, its officers, officials, directors, employees, agents, volunteers and affiliates and each of them from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, damages, costs, expenses, actual attorney’s fees, applicant’s fees, expert fees, losses or liability, in law or in equity, of every kind and nature whatsoever arising out of or in connection with Applicant’s operations, or any subcontractor’s operations, to be performed under this agreement for Applicant’s or subcontractor’s tort negligence including active or passive, or strict negligence, including but not limited to personal injury including, but not limited to bodily injury, emotional injury, sickness or disease, or death to persons and/or damage to property of anyone, including loss of use thereof, caused or alleged to be caused by any act or omission of Applicant, or any subcontractor, or anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them or anyone for the full period of time allowed by the law, regardless to any limitation by insurance, with the exception of the sole negligence or willful misconduct of the City. No modification of the project, any application, permit, certification, condition, environmental determination, other approval, change in applicable laws and regulations, or change in processing methods shall alter the Applicant’s indemnity obligation.

B. Building Division
Staff Contact: Bill Collins Sergio Caldera | [email protected] [email protected] | (707) 648-43837

1. Plans and permits will be required for building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical work per California Code of Regulations, Title 24 and applicable City Ordinance in effect at the time of the completed Building Permit application date and required fees shall be paid at the time of application.

2. Soils report will be required for foundation design plan reviews.

3. 2022 California Code of Regulations applies if permit application(s) are received before the end of 2025. After 12-31-2025 the 2025 California Code of Regulations will apply.

4. Fees will apply to the current fiscal year of permit applications

C. Water Department
Staff Contact: Melissa Cansdale | [email protected] | (707) 553-7223

1. CODE REQUIREMENTS. All code requirements as stated in Title 11 of the Vallejo Municipal Code (VMC) and Vallejo Standard Specifications and Standard Drawings adopted in 2011 (VSSSD) that apply to this project shall be conformed to. The project is being made aware of codes that require extra attention by the following items.

2. WATER SYSTEM PLANS (VSSSD Section 4.1). All water system improvements shall be consistent with the latest Vallejo Water System Master Plan, prepared by Kennedy/Jenks Engineers. Prior to Improvement plan approval and building permit issuance, water system improvement plans shall be submitted to the Water Department for review and approval, and shall contain at least:
a. Location and size of fire sprinkler service connection(s). b. Location and size of existing and proposed domestic service connection(s). c. Location and size of irrigation service connection(s), if any. d. Location of fire hydrants.
e. Location of structures with respect to existing public water system improvements, such as mains, meters, etc.
f. Location and size of any new water mains.

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6 g. Location and size of backflow prevention devices (required on water service connections to irrigation systems, certain commercial water users, and to commercial fire sprinkler systems, per City Ordinance 922 N.C. (2d).

3. FIRE FLOW REQUIREMENTS (VSSSD Section 4.1). Fire flow requirements of the Fire department shall be complied with. Fire flow at no less than 25 psi residual pressure shall be available within 1,000 feet of any structure. One half of the fire flow shall be available within 300 feet of any structure.
a. For single family residential units, the fire flow is 1,500 gpm. b. For other developments, see the Vallejo Water System Master Plan, 2015, prepared by Kennedy Jenks.

5. FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS (VSSSD Section 4.1). Fire hydrant placement and fire sprinkler system installation, if any, shall meet the requirements of the Fire Department. For combined water and fire services, the requirements of both the Fire Department and the Vallejo Water System Master Plan, with latest revisions, shall be satisfied.

6. WATER EASEMENTS (VSSSD Section 4.1). Easements shall be granted for all water system improvements installed outside the public right-of-way in the City's Standard Form for Grant of Water Line Easement with the following widths:
a. 15 ft. wide (minimum) for water mains.
b. 10 ft. wide (minimum) for fire hydrants, water meters, backflow preventers, double detector check valves, etc.
c. Other facilities will be reviewed by the Water Department.

7. WATER METERS (VMC 11.04.110 and 11.16.090). Each parcel shall be metered separately and shall have a separate fire sprinkler service connection.

8. WATER SERVICE BONDS AND FEES (VMC Sections 11.16, 11.18, 11.20 and 11.24). Water service shall be provided by the City of Vallejo following completion of the required water system improvements and payment of applicable fees. Performance and payment bonds shall be provided to the City of Vallejo prior to construction of water system improvements. Fees include those fees specified in the Vallejo Municipal Code including connection and elevated storage fees, etc., and fees for tapping, tie-ins, inspections, disinfection, construction water, and other services provided by the City with respect to the water system improvements. The Water Department may be contacted for a description of applicable fees. These fees have to be paid prior to issuance of the building permit.

9. GENERAL CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
a) Apply and pay for Fire Flow Test with the Water Department in order to determine operation of sprinkler system and final service size.
b) Provide water meter and service sizing calculations per most recent California Plumbing Code, include a water fixture count table.
c) As of January 1, 2018, all units in multi-family, commercial, or combination thereof, buildings shall be individually metered (if existing plumbing allows or is re-configured) by the City, additional meters at the owner/applicant’s expense; or, master metered by the City, and sub-metered by the property owner, with approved/certified meters. Per California Senate Bill 7 (SB7).

10. WATER SYSTEM INSTALLATION. Prior to occupancy or final building inspection, install water system improvements as required. Backflow device/s where required shall be installed in areas hidden from public view and/or shall be mitigated by landscaping.

7 D. Fire Prevention
Staff Contact: Moises Zarate | [email protected] | (707) 648-4565

1. All buildings, facilities, and improvements shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of approved access roadways.

2. Prior to Final Inspection, in accordance with the 2019 CFC, approved address numbers shall be placed on all new and existing buildings in such a position as to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property. Said numbers shall clearly contrast with their background.

The characters shall be a minimum of 4" high with a 1/2" stroke. The size of the building and distance or location of the address numbers from the roadway may necessitate larger numbers.

3. All roof material shall be rated class "C" or better.

4. Provide smoke detectors in all sleeping rooms and common hallways. Detectors shall be hardwired, interconnected with battery backup. Electrical circuits supplying detectors shall be separate dedicated lines with no other devices on the circuits.

5. Provide carbon monoxide detectors outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of all bedrooms.

6. Emergency escape and rescue openings are required in each bedroom in accordance with the 2019 CA Building Code.

7. An NFPA 13D automatic fire sprinkler system is required for all new residential structures, please submit 2 sets of plans and calculations to the Fire Prevention Office and obtain a permit prior to installation. Adequate pressure and GPM verification is required prior to residential construction.

8. Provide a one-hour fire separation between the R-3 and U Occupancy.

9. A final inspection from the Fire Prevention Division is required.

E. Vallejo Flood and Wastewater
Staff Contact: Mariah Henderson | [email protected] | (707) 652-7810

1. Utility site plan will need to show required two-way cleanout within 2 feet of the foundation where waste plumbing exits the building and District cleanout near the public right of way.

2. Add the following notes to plans:
a. All sewer work shall conform to the Vallejo Wastewater Standards, b. Call Vallejo Wastewater a minimum of 24 hours in advance for inspections.

3. Applicant will be required to pay applicable fees and obtain VFWD Connection Permit upon final plan approval.

RESOLUTION NO. 25-_____ N.C.

EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15303 – NEW CONSTRUCTION OR CONVERSION OF SMALL

STRUCTURES
APN: 0055-121-120
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

RECITALS
WHEREAS, on August 29, 2017, the City Council adopted General Plan 2040; and WHEREAS, the property which is the subject of the above-referenced proposed entitlements (the “Subject Property”) has a General Plan 2040 land use designation of Primarily Single-Family; and
WHEREAS, on July 22, 2021, the City Council adopted a new Zoning Code and Zoning Map; and
WHEREAS, the Subject Property is located in the Residential Low Density Zoning District; and
WHEREAS, on August 22, 2022, Rob Kelly and Mario Vazquez, on behalf of Luis Rivera, the property owner, filed an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA22-0007) and Development Review (DVR#22-0031) (“Application”), seeking approval to construct a new single-family dwelling and associated site improvements on a vacant lot at 128 Carolina Street (APN:0055-121-120) located in the St. Vincent’s Historic District; and WHEREAS, on November 7, 2024, pursuant to Vallejo Municipal Code (VMC) Section

16.602.08(A), notice of a public hearing before the Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission was published in the Times Herald and mailed to all active neighborhood groups and property owners within 500 feet of the Subject Property and electronically mailed to the members of the Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission and to the applicant; and
WHEREAS, on November 21, 2024, the City of Vallejo Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission after giving all public notices required by State law and the Vallejo Municipal Code, conducted a duly noticed public hearing; and ATTACHMENT 1
WHEREAS, the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission considered public comments and evidence, both written and oral, provided at the public hearing, as well as other documents contained in the Record of Proceedings relating to the Project, which Record is maintained in the offices of the City of Vallejo Planning Division; and

WHEREAS, based on evidence received in the staff report and at the public hearing, the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission made factual findings and approved the Project with a 5-0 vote (with two commissioners absent); and WHEREAS, on December 2, 2024, Liana Berube and Abbey Schlageter, on behalf of themselves and other neighbors on their block, filed an appeal requesting that the City Council overturn the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness and Development Review; and WHEREAS, on February 6, 2025, notice of the March 11, 2025 public hearing before the City Council was published in the Times Herald, mailed to all active neighborhood groups, all property owners within 500 feet of the Subject Property, and any other interested parties, and electronically mailed to the applicant, appellant, the Mayor and the members of the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the Appeal came before the City Council for a de novo public hearing on March 11, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Appellant, the Applicant, supporters of the application, those opposed to the Application and interested and neutral parties were given ample opportunity to participate in the public hearing by submitting oral and/or written comments prior to the close of the public hearing; and
WHEREAS, the City Council considered the testimony and evidence, both written and oral, provided at the March 11, 2025 public hearing, as well as all other evidence and information contained in the Record of Proceedings, which Record is maintained in the offices of the City of Vallejo Planning Division; and
WHEREAS, following the close of the public hearing of March 11, 2025, the City Council voted unanimously to deny the appeal of the Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission’s decision to approve, and to grant, a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA22- 0007) and Development Review (DVR22-0031) to allow the development of a new single- family residence at 128 Carolina Street, subject to revised conditions of approval and directed staff to prepare a resolution in accordance therewith.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council, having heard, considered and weighed all the evidence in the Record presented on behalf of all the parties and being fully informed of the Application, the City Architectural Heritage and Landmark Commission’s decision, and the Appeal, hereby makes the following findings and determinations:

I. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
The Record of Proceedings (“Record”) upon which the City Council bases its decision on the project at issue herein, includes, but is not limited to:

1. The application, including all designs, plans, studies, data and correspondence submitted to the City in connection with the Project;

2. The environmental document (categorical exemption) prepared for the project;

3. The notice of appeal and all accompanying statements and materials;

4. All staff reports, decision letters and other documentation and information produced by or on behalf of the City in connection with the Project;

5. All documentary and oral evidence received at the public hearings regarding the Project;

6. All matters of common knowledge and all official enactments and acts of the City, including without limitation: (a) the City of Vallejo General Plan 2040 and its related EIR; (b) the 2021 Zoning Code and its Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration; (c) the Vallejo Municipal Code; (d) all designs, plans, studies, data and correspondence submitted to the City in connection with the Project; (e) all documentary and oral evidence received at the public hearing regarding the Project; (f) other applicable City of Vallejo policies and regulations; and (g) all applicable state and federal laws, rules, regulations, reports, records and projections related to development within the City of Vallejo and its surrounding areas.

WHEREAS, the Custodian of Record is the City Clerk of the City of Vallejo, 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, California 94590.

II. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDING
The Project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §21000, et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §15000, et seq.) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303(c) (Class 3, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”). The Project proposes the construction of a new single-family residence in a residential district.

None of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply, as follows: (a) the Project site is located in an urbanized area with no environmentally sensitive habitats or species of concern on the site, (b) there has been no successive effort to intensity land uses in the area and thus there is no significant cumulative impact from successive projects of the same type over time, (c) there are no significant effects due to unusual circumstances that would pose a reasonable possibility of having a significant effect on the environment, (d) the Project is not located near a scenic highway, (e) the Project site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, and (f) the Project is consistent with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings (1995), Weeks and Grimmer, and therefore would not adversely affect any historical resource.

III.FINDINGS RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF THE CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS PERMIT (VMC Section 16.614.09.E)
The City Council hereby finds that:

FACTS IN SUPPORT: The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation are applicable to the Project and are as follows:
1) A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new use that requires minimal change to its distinctive materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships.

Agree. According to historical mapping (Sandborn Maps), there was a small one- story cottage that existed on the site in 1919. By 1959, a second one-story structure had been constructed, resulting in two separate dwelling units on the site. The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site.
2) The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or alteration of features, spaces and spatial relationships that characterize a property will be avoided.

Not Applicable, as the property has been vacant for over 40 years. 3) Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or elements from other historic properties, will not be undertaken.

Agree. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of the property, aside from historical mapping (Sandborn Maps). The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and design requirements outlined in the VMC.

It should be noted that the proposed architectural style of the new construction is compatible with the features, size, scale, and massing of the surrounding neighborhood, which would help to protect the integrity of historic district. The building will be constructed with modern materials such as Hardie board siding and metal garage doors which will help the property be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Recreating a false sense of historical features is discouraged with new construction. The proposed single-family residence aims to have similar scale and mass, height, setbacks and materials as homes within the district, without imitating historical features and will therefore not create a false sense of historical development.
4) Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their own right will be retained and preserved.

Not Applicable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years and has no historical significance.
5) Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that characterize a property will be preserved.

Not Applicable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of the previous structure on the property. The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and design requirements outlined in the VMC.

It should be noted that the proposed architectural style of the new construction is compatible with the features, size, scale, and massing of the surrounding neighborhood, which (while not required) will help to protect the integrity of historic district.
6) Deteriorated historic features will be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature will match the old in design, color, texture and, where possible, materials. Replacement of missing features will be substantiated by documentary and physical evidence.

Not Applicable. There are no structures on the site and no replacement or repair of historic features is proposed.
7) Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using the gentlest means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic materials will not be used.

Not Applicable. There are no structures or historic materials on the site. 8) Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken.

The Project proposes new construction on a vacant lot. Archeological resources are not expected to be found at the site; however, if they are discovered during construction activities, then construction activities would halt and any resources would be protected, in accordance with applicable State requirements and General Plan Action Policy NBE-1.9A.
9) New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not destroy historic materials, features, and spatial relationships that characterize the property. The new work will be differentiated from the old and will be compatible with the historic materials, features, size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the property and its environment.

Not Applicable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years, and there are no known records available to confirm the historic character of any former structures on the property. The current proposal includes one new single-family home, which is consistent with the historic use of the site and consistent with all applicable development standards and design requirements outlined in the VMC.

It should be noted that the proposed architectural style of the new construction is compatible with the features, size, scale, and massing of the surrounding neighborhood, which (while not required) will help to protect the integrity of historic district.
10) New additions and adjacent or related new construction will be undertaken in such a manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired.

Not Applicable. The site has been vacant for over 40 years.

B. For projects located in a Historic District, the proposed project is consistent with any conservation plan or specific plan adopted for the Historic District.

The Project site is within the St. Vincent’s Historic District for which there is no adopted conservation plan or specific plan.

Not applicable. There is no demolition proposed as part of this Project.

IV.FINDINGS RELATING TO THE APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (VMC Section 16.605.03)

1. Complies with all applicable specific standards and criteria of this Zoning Code.

The proposed Project is located on a property zoned Residential Low Density (RLD).

The RLD zone is intended for low-density residential areas in which permanent single unit residences, including detached and attached (duplexes and townhouses) units, are the primary use. The Project is consistent with the RLD zoning district in terms of land use, in that it involves the construction of a new single-family residence within an established neighborhood. The Project is consistent with the applicable development standards, such as setbacks, lot coverage, building height, design standards, etc., as outlined in VMC Title 16, as proposed and conditioned.

2. Is consistent with the General Plan and any applicable approved Specific Plan or Planned Development.

The site has a General Plan designation of Primarily Single Family (R-SF), which is consistent with the current RLD zoning of the site. The R-SF General Plan designation applies to residential neighborhoods primarily characterized by detached single‐ family homes. Dwellings typically have front and rear yards, as well as side setbacks. Permitted land uses include single ‐family homes, in some instances duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and small commercial spaces, and public facilities such as schools, religious institutions, parks, and other community facilities appropriate within a residential neighborhood. The maximum permitted residential density in the R ‐SF designation is 12 dwelling units per acre. The proposed new dwelling is consistent with the permitted density range. The Project is consistent with R-SF land use designation in that it involves the construction of a single-family residence within an established neighborhood that is primarily characterized by a mixture of detached single-family residences or multifamily residential. The buildings and its uses are consistent with applicable actions and policies of the General Plan, such as Policy NBE-1.11 - Historic Districts and NBE-2.8 - Infill Development, and the General Plan Designation.

4. Is in substantial compliance with any applicable adopted design guidelines.

VMC Section 16.202.03 – Design Standards for single-unit housing (detached and attached), provides design standards as detailed in Table 3 of Attachment 2. As proposed, the dwelling complies with all applicable development and design standards for single-unit dwellings within the RLD zone.

6. Will be of a quality and demonstrates thoughtful site planning that will serve to protect the value of private and public investments in the area.

7. That the project has been reviewed in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, if applicable, and the requirements of this Chapter.

V. FINDINGS RELEVANT TO THE DENIAL OF THE APPEAL
The appellant provided a project comment letter prior to the initial hearing on November 21, 2024. The main arguments are restated below in bold, with staff’s responses following in italics.

1. No precedent of a two-story building on the lot; the original structure cannot be rebuilt in original dimensions due to current code. The cottage that originally existed on the property was no larger than 700 square feet. The footprint of the historic building was nearly identical to the neighboring cottage, according to a 1919 Sanborn map. We are in a historically protected neighborhood, and the average home in this neighborhood on a full lot is 1,450 sqft. The proposed home, at over 1700 sqft of living space plus 280 sqft attached garage on a non- conforming half lot, is grossly disproportionate to the norm of the area even if it was on a full lot, which it’s not. The proposed house would also be the only building from the start of Carolina St at Butte St all the way to Sacramento St to be set back from the street front. It would be the only single family home within the immediate area (100 block of Carolina St, the 100 block of Butte St, and the 100 block of Branciforte St) to be taller than 1.5 stories. No discussion of this was brought up in the AHLC meeting on Nov 21, 2024, while the next proposal under review, on a lot just two blocks away, was discussed extensively and unfavorably for such criteria, including referencing Sanborn maps to decide on appropriateness. Not only is the proposed building at 128 Carolina St an anomaly with the norms of the area, but the allowed discussion and reasoning of the AHLC was blatantly inconsistent during the Nov 21 hearing.

Findings: The RLD zoning for the site allows for a single-family dwelling to be built, subject to the development standards of the district (VMC Chapter 16.202 – Residential Districts). As proposed and conditioned, the project would be consistent with all the applicable development standards, including maximum building height, front, interior side and rear setbacks for the residence and garage, and maximum lot coverage. The proposed building height of 24 feet is within the maximum allowable building height of 35 feet. The proposed building front yard setback of 35 feet meets the minimum front yard setback of 15 feet.

The proposed side yard setback of 5 feet complies with the “narrow lot” requirement which allows for setbacks that are 10% the lot width (or 3-feet for this site, as described in VMC Section 16.202.02.5).

2. Survey legitimacy is questionable. (Markers not industry standard) The survey of the property is not legal. In addition to the previously stated issue with the survey, a call was made to the Solano Recorders Office in Fairfield on November 25, 2024. A search was done for any recorded survey for 128 Carolina Street, and no survey has been recorded. This supposed survey was conducted at least a year ago or more, on a holiday (which is another red flag). According to California law: “(c) The record of survey required to be filed pursuant to this section shall be filed within 90 days after the setting of boundary monuments during the performance of a field survey or within 90 days after completion of a field survey, whichever comes first.” (Ca. Bus. And Prof’l. Code § 8762) Therefore, this survey is not legal. A legitimate survey is required to build a new residence on a vacant lot. (CBC Ch. 1, Div. 11, §107.1(c); CRC Ch. 1, Div. II, § R106.1(c))
Findings: A survey is not required for a Certificate of Appropriateness application; however, a 'boundary survey' is required for a Development Review application. According to the Planning Division's published application submittal checklist, the boundary survey shall: 1) be prepared by a licensed California Surveyor or Civil Engineer licensed to perform survey; 2) include a drawing to scale (utilizing an Engineer’s Scale and a Scale Bar); 3) include the date of survey preparation and any subsequent revisions; 4) include the street address and Assessor’s Parcel Map Number; and 5) include information on any existing easements. A boundary survey for the proposed project was submitted as part of the planning application, and it was reviewed by staff and deemed to have met the submittal requirements for processing of the planning application.

Findings: Lozier Alley stretches the entire block and can be accessed by vehicles at either end. The Conditions of Approval have been revised to address these concerns. In particular, Condition 5.e has been revised to read as follows:
“Lozier Alley Vehicle Parking and Access. No contractor or construction worker vehicles shall be allowed to park in the alley at any time. All such vehicles shall be parked either on the Subject Property or on the public streets, except with the prior consent of the Public Works Director based on strict necessity--for example, to allow a concrete mixer when pouring concrete for the driveway.

1. The above findings and recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein.

2. The Project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code §21000, et seq. and California Code of Regulations, Title 14, §15000, et seq.) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15303(c) (Class 3, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”). The Project proposes the construction of a new single-family residence in a residential district.

None of the exceptions in CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2 apply, as follows:
(a) the site is located in an urbanized area with no environmentally sensitive habitats or species of concern on the site, (b) there has been no successive effort to intensity land uses in the area and thus there is no significant cumulative impact that would result from successive projects of the same type over time, (c) there are no significant effects due to unusual circumstances that would pose a reasonable possibility of having a significant effect on the environment, (d) the Project is not located near a scenic highway, (e) the Project site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, and (f) the Project is consistent with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings (1995), Weeks and Grimmer, and therefore would not adversely affect any historical resource.

3. Appeal (APP24-0003) is DENIED.

4. The decision of the Architectural Heritage and Landmarks Commission is UPHELD.

5. Certificate of Appropriateness (COA#22-0007) and Development Review (DVR#22-0031) are GRANTED, in accordance based on the analysis contained in the staff report and the findings contained herein and subject to the revised Conditions of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit A.

ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VALLEJO at a regular meeting held on March 25, 2025, with the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:
________________________________________

ANDREA SOURCE
City of Vallejo City Council
Attest:
________________________________________

DAWN ABRAHAMSON, CITY CLERK
City of Vallejo City Clerk
Exhibit A

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATNESS (COA22-0007)
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (DVR22-0031)
128 CAROLINA STREET
APN # 0055-121-120
PERMIT DESCRIPTION: The project consists of a new two-story 1,732 square foot single-family residence, with an attached 280 square-foot one-car garage on a vacant lot within the Saint (St.) Vincent Historic District. Access to the garage will be off Lozier Alley.

A.PLANNING DIVISION
Laura Solomon, Associate Planner | [email protected] | (707) 648-5391 Pre-Building Permit:

1. Prior to building permit submittal, this project must receive approval of the required Minor Use Permit (MUP23-0018) per Vallejo Municipal Code Chapter 16.212 - Hillside Development Standards.

3. Prior to building permit issuance, the Planning Division shall confirm that the building permit drawings and subsequent construction substantially conform with the approved Planning entitlement.

During Construction:

5. Construction activities shall be managed in compliance with the following requirements:
a. Site Watering. During the construction of a project, all portions of the site shall be watered as necessary to reduce emissions of dust and other particulate matter, and all stockpiles shall be covered.
b. Maintenance. Streets and sidewalks shall be made dirt free at the completion of construction.
c. Noise. All construction and transport equipment shall be muffled in accordance with state and federal laws and shall not exceed the City’s maximum allowable noise levels. All construction activity shall comply with Vallejo Municipal Code subsection 16.502.12.D.1., Maximum Noise Level for Temporary Construction Activity. d. Emissions. Construction and transport equipment shall be operated to minimize exhaust emissions. During construction, trucks and equipment should be running only when necessary.
2 e. Lozier Alley Vehicle Parking and Access. No contractor or construction worker vehicles shall be allowed to park in the alley at any time. All such vehicles shall be parked either on the Subject Property or on the public streets, except with the prior consent of the Public Works Director based on strict necessity--for example, to allow a concrete mixer when pouring concrete for the driveway. Deliveries of construction materials are permitted either to park on the edge of the alley for purposes of loading and unloading only, provided they occur within a two-hour window or less. Any time in excess of such two-hour window shall be based on strict necessity and shall require the prior consent of the Public Works Director or designee.
f. Hours of Operation. Grading, pile driving operations, construction, demolition, and related loading/unloading activities shall be limited to between 8:00 am and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturdays. . These time limitations may be extended for the delivery of construction materials only by approval of the Public Works Director or designee, provided such deliveries comply with all other requirements herein.

No construction is to occur on Sundays or on federal holidays. g. Water Run-off. All water run-off from construction sites shall be controlled. During construction, trucks and equipment should be running only when necessary and shall comply with Chapter 12.41 of the Vallejo Municipal Code.

9. Prior to first final building inspection, the landscape architect shall provide a Certificate of Completion and Certificate of Installation according to the Landscape Documentation in accordance with VMC Chapter 16.504.09: Water Efficient Landscape Requirements. The documentation shall include the following:
a. Irrigation Scheduling (VMC Section 16.504.11)
b. Schedule of Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance (VMC Section 16.504.08) c. Landscape Irrigation Audit Report (VMC Section 16.504.13) d. Soil Management Report (VMC Section 16.504.10)

10. Prior to the first final building inspection, all landscaping and irrigation shall be installed in accordance with the approved plans, and the landscape architect shall provide written verification that the landscaping and irrigation have been installed in accordance with the approved landscape plans, particularly with respect to size, health, number and species of plants, and the overall design concept.
3 11. All landscaping shall be permanently maintained in a healthy and thriving condition at all times, in compliance with the approved landscape plan. Irrigation systems and their components shall be maintained in a fully functional manner consistent with the original approved design or upgraded to reflect current best practices for water efficiency. Regular maintenance shall include but is not limited to:
a. Adjusting, checking, and repairing irrigation equipment; resetting automatic controllers; aerating and de-thatching turf areas; adding/replenishing fertilizer, mulch, soil amendments; insect control; the replacement of dead or diseased plants; pruning; watering; and weeding all landscaped areas.
b. The trimming of vegetation is necessary to maintain the effective functioning of solar energy facilities and passive solar design features installed both on site and on adjacent properties.
c. The trimming of vegetation is necessary to keep pedestrian and bicycle paths clear. (VMC Section 16.504.08 (A))
d. Pruning, cultivating, weeding, fertilizing, replacement of plants, and watering on a regular basis.
e. Pruning or removal of overgrown vegetation, cultivated or uncultivated, that may harbor rats, vermin, or other nuisances, or otherwise be detrimental to neighboring properties. f. The removal of dead, decayed, diseased, or hazardous trees, weeds and debris that create an unsightly appearance and may be dangerous to public safety and welfare or detrimental to neighboring properties or property values. Compliance shall be by removal, replacement, or maintenance.
g. Landscaping (trees, shrubs, ground cover, turf, etc.) which, due to accident, damage, disease, lack of maintenance, or other cause, fails to show a healthy appearance and growth, shall be replaced. Replacement plants shall conform to all standards that govern the original planting installation, approved landscaping plan, or as approved by the director. (VMC Section 16.504.08 (D))

12. Litter shall be removed from all landscaped areas in a timely fashion. (VMC Section16.504.08 (B))

14. Fencing and walls shall be continuously maintained with no sign of rust or disrepair. Any graffiti shall be removed within forty-eight hours of discovery by the property manager. (VMC Section

16.505.02 (B)).

15. All exterior mechanical equipment, whether on a roof, on the side of a structure, or located on the ground, shall be screened from public view. Exterior mechanical equipment to be screened includes, without limitation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration equipment, plumbing lines, ductwork, transformers, smoke exhaust fans, water meters, backflow preventers, service entry section, back-up and emergency generators, and similar utility devices. a. Screening shall be architecturally integrated into the main structure with regard to materials, color, shape, and size to appear as an integral part of the building or structure. b. Equipment shall be screened on all sides, and screening materials shall be opaque. c. When screening with plants, evergreen types of vegetation shall be planted and maintained. Plant material sizes and types shall be selected and installed so that, at the time of building occupancy, such plants effectively screen their respective equipment. d. The use of wood expanded metal lath, and chain link for the purpose of screening is prohibited. (VMC Section 16.505.10)
4 Lighting:

17. This entitlement shall automatically expire within two years of the effective date of this approval, on March 25, 2027, unless the use is exercised or extended (VMC Section 16.602.12 (A)).

Issuance of a building permit shall constitute exercise of rights; provided, however, that, unless otherwise specified as a condition of project approval, the permit shall expire if:
a. The building permit expires.
b. Final inspection is not completed, or certificate of occupancy issued within the time specified as a condition of project approval.
c. The rights granted under the permit are not exercised within one year following the earliest to occur of the following: issuance of a certificate of occupancy; or if no certificate of occupancy is required, the last required final inspection for the new construction. (VMC Section 16.602.11 (B))

19. No change in the use for which a permit or other approval has been issued is permitted, in accordance with Government Code section 66411.7.

21. Applicant shall indemnify, hold harmless, and defend City, its officers, officials, directors, employees, agents, volunteers and affiliates and each of them from any and all claims, demands, causes of action, damages, costs, expenses, actual attorney’s fees, applicant’s fees, expert fees, losses or liability, in law or in equity, of every kind and nature whatsoever arising out of or in connection with Applicant’s operations, or any subcontractor’s operations, to be performed under this agreement for Applicant’s or subcontractor’s tort negligence including active or passive, or strict negligence, including but not limited to personal injury including, but not limited to bodily injury, emotional injury, sickness or disease, or death to persons and/or damage to property of anyone, including loss of use thereof, caused or alleged to be caused by any act or omission of Applicant, or any subcontractor, or anyone directly or indirectly employed by any of them or anyone for the full period of time allowed by the law, regardless to any limitation by insurance, with the exception of the sole negligence or willful misconduct of the City. No modification of the project, any application, permit, certification, condition, environmental determination, other 5 approval, change in applicable laws and regulations, or change in processing methods shall alter the Applicant’s indemnity obligation.

B. Building Division
Staff Contact: Bill Collins [email protected] | (707) 648-4387

2. Soils report will be required for foundation design plan reviews.

3. 2022 California Code of Regulations applies if permit application(s) are received before the end of 2025. After 12-31-2025 the 2025 California Code of Regulations will apply.

4. Fees will apply to the current fiscal year of permit applications C. Water Department
Staff Contact: Melissa Cansdale | [email protected] | (707) 553-7223

4. HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS (VSSSD Section 4.1). Prior to Improvement Plan and building permit issuance, hydraulic calculations shall be submitted to the Water Director demonstrating that the fire flow requirements are complied with.
6 5. FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS (VSSSD Section 4.1). Fire hydrant placement and fire sprinkler system installation, if any, shall meet the requirements of the Fire Department. For combined water and fire services, the requirements of both the Fire Department and the Vallejo Water System Master Plan, with latest revisions, shall be satisfied.

7. WATER METERS (VMC 11.04.110 and 11.16.090). Each parcel shall be metered separately and shall have a separate fire sprinkler service connection.

D. Fire Prevention
Staff Contact: Moises Zarate | [email protected] | (707) 648-4565

1. All buildings, facilities, and improvements shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of approved access roadways.

The characters shall be a minimum of 4" high with a 1/2" stroke. The size of the building and distance or location of the address numbers from the roadway may necessitate larger numbers.

3. All roof material shall be rated class "C" or better. 7 4. Provide smoke detectors in all sleeping rooms and common hallways. Detectors shall be hardwired, interconnected with battery backup. Electrical circuits supplying detectors shall be separate dedicated lines with no other devices on the circuits.