Agenda packet — Visalia City Council, September 2, 2025

Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
Visalia City Council
Visalia City Council
Meeting Agenda - Final
Mayor Brett Taylor
Vice Mayor Liz Wynn
Council Member Steve Nelsen
Council Member Emmanuel Hernandez Soto
Council Member Brian Poochigian
Tuesday, September 2, 2025 7:00 PM City Council Chambers

ROLL CALL
CALL TO ORDER WORK SESSION - 4:30 PM (Unless otherwise noted)

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Citizens are now invited to comment on issues within the jurisdiction of the Visalia City Council and items listed on the Closed Session agenda. The Council asks that you keep your comments concise and positive. Creative criticism, presented with appropriate courtesy, is welcome. Each speaker will be allowed three minutes, and a timer will notify you when your time is expired. Please begin your comments by stating and spelling your name and providing your city of residence.

WORK SESSION AND ACTION ITEMS (as described)

1. New Employee Introductions
Garian Martin, Solid Waste Operator
Chad Mahan, Solid Waste Operator
Ronnie Rodriguez, SWEEP Maintenance Service Worker
25-0373

2. Neighborhood Preservation Division overview presentation.

Planning and Community Preservation Department management staff will present an overview of the Neighborhood Preservation Division.
25-0377

3. New City Website Update - Review planning process and community outreach for resident feedback.
25-0387

4. Fire Station 51 Update - Review renderings and select an exterior building style.
25-0355
ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION - 6:00 PM (Or, immediately following Work Session)
CALL TO ORDER REGULAR SESSION - 7:00 PM

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1 Visalia City Council Meeting Agenda - Final September 2, 2025

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

INVOCATION LED BY PHIL APPLEBAUM, CONGREGATION B'NAI DAVID

SPECIAL PRESENTATION / RECOGNITION

PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the time for general public comment on issues within the jurisdiction of the Visalia City Council. Each speaker tonight may speak for up to 3 minutes during this general comment period on a matter that is not on this agenda.

The public may also make one comment for up to 3 minutes prior to the consideration of the Consent Calendar, and immediately before any regular agenda item is heard. The Council asks that you keep you comments concise and positive. Creative criticism, presented with appropriate courtesy, is welcome.

Each speaker will be allowed three minutes and a timer will notify you when your time is expired. Please begin your comments by stating and spelling your name and providing your city of residence.

ITEMS OF INTEREST

CONSENT CALENDAR
Consent Calendar items are considered routine and will be enacted in one motion.

This is the time for members of the public to provide public comment on an item on the Consent Calendar. Comments will not be taken individually by the public if an item is pulled by a Council Member. Each speaker is allowed up to 3 minutes, and a timer will notify you when your time is expired. Please begin your comments by stating and spelling you name and providing your city of residence.

1. Authorization to read ordinances by title only. 25-0254

2. Authorize Purchase of Passenger Transit Vans - Authorize the City Manager to utilize the California Association for Coordinated Transportation Morongo Basin Transit Authority cooperative contract for Class P passenger transit vans to enter into a contract in the amount of $685,389 with Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, for the purchase of four (4) Braun-Lonestar Class P passenger transit vans for the Visalia Transit Dial-A-Ride service.
25-0334

3. Park Project Notice of Completion - Request authorization to file a Notice of Completion for the Stonebrook Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.
25-0354

4. Park Project Notice of Completion - Request authorization to file a Notice of Completion for the Sunset Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.
25-0367

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2 Visalia City Council Meeting Agenda - Final September 2, 2025

5. Park Project Notice of Completion - Request authorization to file a Notice of Completion for the Whitendale Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.
25-0368

6. Approval of Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan - Approval of the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) and authorize the City Manager to sign on behalf of Visalia Transit and to annually review and approve.
25-0376

7. Approval of Agricultural Conservation Easement Form - A request by Great Valley Land Trust to have their agricultural conservation easement form and content approved as required per the City's adopted Agricultural Preservation Ordinance. 25-0380

8. Authorize an updated resolution to receive and appropriate Homekey+ Funds - Approve an updated resolution (2025-64) authorizing a joint application with Self-Help Enterprises and Crescent Meadows LP for Homekey+ funds not to exceed $15 million; and appropriate $15 million in Homekey+ funds for the Crescent Meadows project, contingent upon an award.
25-0382

REGULAR ITEMS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
Comments related to regular Items and Public Hearing Items are limited to three minutes per speaker, for a maximum of 30 minutes per item. The Mayor may reasonably limit or extend the public comment period to preserve the Council's interest in conducting efficient, orderly meetings.

1. Amendment to Measure N Budget - Conduct the second public hearing to appropriate additional funds of $519,638 for the modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station 52.
25-0385

2. Public Hearing and Ordinance Adoption -
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02: A request by the City of Visalia to change the land use designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from Parks/Recreation to Commercial Mixed Use.

First Reading of Ordinance to adopt Change of Zone No.
2025-03: A request by the City of Visalia to change the zoning designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from QP (Quasi-Public) to C-MU (Commercial Mixed Use).

Location: The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100-103).
25-0379

CLOSED SESSION REPORT

ADJOURNMENT

UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

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3 Visalia City Council Meeting Agenda - Final September 2, 2025

1. Upcoming City Council Meetings
Monday, September 15, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. at 707 W. Acequia Monday, October 6, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. at 707 W. Acequia
Note: Meeting dates and times are subject to change, check posted agenda for correct details. In compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings contact 713-4512.

Written materials relating to an item on this agenda submitted to the Council after distribution of the agenda are available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk, 220 N. Santa Fe Street, Visalia CA 93292, during normal business hours.
25-0250

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4 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0373 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

New Employee Introductions
Garian Martin, Solid Waste Operator
Chad Mahan, Solid Waste Operator
Ronnie Rodriguez, SWEEP Maintenance Service Worker
Visalia City Council Page 1 of 1 Printed on 8/26/2025
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Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0377 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 2.

Agenda Item Wording:

Neighborhood Preservation Division overview presentation. Planning and Community Preservation Department management staff will present an overview of the Neighborhood Preservation Division.

Prepared by:

Tracy Robertshaw, Neighborhood Preservation Manager, 559-713-4187, [email protected]
Paul Bernal, Planning and Community Preservation Manager, 559-713-4025, [email protected] Department Recommendation: Receive an overview presentation from the Neighborhood Preservation Division management staff.

Background Discussion:

Planning and Community Development Department management staff will present an overview of the Neighborhood Preservation Division, which is comprised of Code Enforcement Staff.

Fiscal Impact: No fiscal impact
Prior Council Action: No prior Council action.

Other: None
Alternatives: None
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

No motion required.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: Neighborhood Preservation Overview Presentation Visalia City Council Page 1 of 1 Printed on 8/28/2025
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Neighborhood Preservation Division
City of Visalia
7 2004
Start of Code Enforcement
• CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER HIRED

AND THE EARLY DEVELOPMENT OF A

CODE ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM

BEGAN AS PART OF THE BUILDING
DIVISION.
8 2005
• UPDATES TO VISALIA MUNICIPAL
• ESTABLISHED ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES
• APPEAL PROCESS
• SUMMARY ABATEMENTS
• CLARIFIED PUBLIC NUISANCE

DECLARATION
9 2006
Code Enforcement Program updated
• CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
• BUILDING INSPECTOR
• SUPPORT STAFF
• PART TIME CODE ENFORCEMENT

SPECIALIST
10 • Visalia Municipal Code 1.13 Updated
• Established
• Administrative Penalties
• Appeal Process
• Summary Abatements
• Visalia Municipal Code 8.40 Public NuisanceUpdated
• Clarified Public Nuisance Declarations
11 NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION DIVISION
Established in 2007 as a Division of the Housing and Economic Development Department to Enforce Violations of the Visalia Municipal Code and Maintain and Improve Neighborhoods 12 2007
Neighborhood Preservation
• NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION MANAGER
• BUILDING INSPECTOR
• CODE ENFORCEMENT TECHNICIAN
• PART TIME CODE ENFORCEMENT TECHNICIAN
13 2007

FIRST MAJOR NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION PROJECT
Based on 618 Police Calls for Service in a 24 Month PeriodThe Dead-End Alley Off Nobel (Between Bridge and Santa Fe) was Fenced 14 2007 - 2008
• Administrative Citations and Process Created
• Oversight by Neighborhood Preservation
• Utilized by All Departments
• Rental Inspection Ordinance/Program Created
• Traffic Study Grant for Oval Park Applied for and
Received
15 NUMBER OF CITATIONS YEAR
598 2007
1006 2022
672 2023
971 2024

ADMINISTRATIVE

CITATIONS
16 2009
• TRANSFERRED PRIVATE

PROPERTY VEHICLE

ABATEMENT FROM THE FIRE

DEPARTMENT TO

NEIGHBORHOOD

PRESERVATION
• ADDED A PRIVATE PROPERTY

VEHICLE ABATEMENT

OFFICER
17 VISALIA MUNICIPAL CODE CHANGES
Monthly Collaborative Meetings With
Other Departments Resulted in the
Following Code
Updates/Additions/Changes
18 2009 - 2 0 12
• Aggressive Panhandling Ordinance Implemented
• Public Nuisance Ordinance Updated
• Excessive Calls for Service Enforcement Improved
• Camping Added
• Depositing Feces Added
• Graffiti Ordinance Updated (2010/2024)
• Decommissioned Ice House Park
• Changed Recycling Facility Requirements in the Zoning Ordinance
• Marijuana Ordinance Implemented (2011/2012/2017) 19
2013- 2 0 19
• Shopping Cart Ordinance Implemented(2013/2019)
• Massage Ordinance Implemented(2016/ 2025)
• Bee Ordinance Updated
• Removed Police Officer Requirement
• Park Rules Ordinance Updated
• Added Park Bans for Criminal Behavior
• Changed Park Hours for Oval Park, Seven Oaks and
the Skate Park
20 2020 - 2025
• Changes to Commercial Vehicles in
Residential Areas
• Fines Increased for Illegal Dumping to $1000
• Vehicle Street Storage Updated
• Special Event Permit Process Updated
(2023/2025)
21 St Johns River Clean Ups
22 2021
$232,000 UTILIZED TO CLEAN UP THE ST. JOHNS
RIVER 2016-2021

FULL TIME CODE ENFORCEMENT TECHNICIAN

ADDED TO ENFORCE WATERWAY ISSUES
RESPONSIBLE FOR NEARLY 46 MILES OF
WATERWAYS INCLUDING THE ST. JOHNS RIVER
23 2023 - 2024
• 2023-CODE ENFORCEMENT TECHNICIANS

RECLASSIFIED AS CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
• 2024-GRAFFITI ABATEMENT TRANSFERRED TO

NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION
• 2024-SWEEP TEAM TRANSFERRED TO

NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION
• 2024-ADDITIONAL CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

ADDED FOR COMMERCIAL AND ENTITLEMENT

INSPECTIONS
24 COMMERCIAL/ENTITLEMENT INSPECTIONS
February 2024 through August 2025
• 321 Commercial Locations Inspected
• Cease and Desist Orders Issued to 27
Businesses
• 14 Businesses Not Permitted to Reopen
25 GRAFFITI ABATEMENT
JANUARY 2024 – JUNE 30, 2025
• RESPONDED TO 1,194 WORKS ORDERS
• 17,917 SQUARE FEET OF GRAFFITI
ABATED
26 27

SOLID WASTE ENVIRONMENTAL

ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (SWEEP)
JUNE 1, 2024 - JUNE 30, 2025
RESPONDED TO 337 COMMUNITY MEMBER

COMPLAINTS
• PROCESSED 1,831 WORK ORDERS
• 183,620 POUNDS/91.81 TONS OF DEBRIS

REMOVED
• 99 APPLIANCES
• 139 TIRES
• 234 MATTRESSES
• 98 E-WASTE ITEMS 28

NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION DIVISION
2025
• 1 Manager
• 1 Support Staff
• 7 Code Enforcement Officers
• 1 Code Enforcement Technician
• 2 Part-time Code Enforcement Technicians
• 5 SWEEP Maintenance Service Worker
• 1 Lead/4 Maintenance Service Worker
• 5 Part-time Graffiti Abatement Staff (3 Vacancies)
29 30

YEAR CASES SUBSTANDARD
2006 232 UNKNOWN
2007 241 UNKNOWN
2008 918 263
2022 1562 181
2023 1565 155
2024 1846 163

CASE STATISTICS
31 13 DANGEROUS BUILDINGS DEMOLISHED
32 SUBSTANDARD HOUSING ISSUES
RESOLVE AN AVERAGE 190 PER YEAR
33 FOUND PROPERTY STORAGE HOME BASED BUSINESS VIOLATIONS

VISUAL BLIGHT VENDOR ENFORCEMENT
34 UNMAINTAINED SWIMMING POOLS PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY ISSUES

SHOPPING CARTS ILLEGAL MARIJUANA GROWS
35 COST RECOVERY EFFORTS
• HOURLY COSTS
• CODE ENFORCEMENT TECHNICIAN $142.00
• FINES
• 100.00 FIRST DAY, 200.00 SECOND AND 500.00 EVER DAY
THEREAFTER (Established by the California Civil Code)
• SHOPPING CARTS $50.00 PER CART, PER DAY
(Established by the California Business and Professions Code)
• RESPONSIBLE FOR SUMMARY ABATEMENTS (Boarding and
Clean-up Costs)
36 COST RECOVERY

YEAR TOTAL PAID PENDING
2006 $32,513 $32,512 -0-
2008 $154,814 $154,814 -0-
2022 $270,377 $201,225 $69,278
2023 $275,377 $183,730 $91,647
2024 $309,396 $221,391 $88,005
37 • SUMMARY ABATEMENTS
• NOTICE AND ORDERS
• ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT ORDERS
• DECLARATION OF SUBSTANDARD BUILDING AND

NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF ACTION/PROCEEDINGS (TITLE
CLOUD)
• FINES
• ADMINISTRATIVE CITATIONS
• WARRANTS (INSPECTION/ABATEMENT)
• STIPULATED AGREEMENTS

ENFORCEMENT OPTIONS
38 •COMPLAINTLINE(559) 713-4534
•ONLINEwww.visalia.city
•DIRECTLYCONTACTINGSTAFF

REPORTING VIOLATIONS
39 Thank you
City of Visalia – Neighborhood Preservation Division
40 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0387 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 3.

Agenda Item Wording:

New City Website Update - Review planning process and community outreach for resident feedback.

Prepared by: Allison M. Mackey, Communications & Brand Manager, 559-713-4535 [email protected], Shonna Oneal, Administrative Services Director, 559-713-4053 [email protected]
Department Recommendation: It is recommended that the Visalia City Council receive a presentation on the update of the City’s agreement with CivicPlus for web services, current project components, and upcoming community outreach for resident feedback.

Summary:

With the City’s agreement in place with Civic Plus for web services, including a new website, 311 resident service request system, public records request management system, social media monitoring and archiving, and accessibility monitoring, staff have moved forward in preparing and scheduling the implementation of a community outreach plan to receive feedback from the public on the design, function and features of the new City website.

Background Discussion:

The City’s current website was launched in 2015 and at the direction of Council, City staff are now working with the vendor CivicPlus to modernize the City's digital presence, enhance access to services, and foster greater civic engagement with a completely new website.

The City website as it stands now is outdated and increasingly inadequate for meeting current standards. Notably, it lacks optimization for mobile devices, presents difficulties in submitting service requests, and does not comply with upcoming accessibility regulations. Additionally, the U.S.

Department of Justice Civil Rights Division is requiring that websites and mobile applications comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Title II web accessibility rules. The City must achieve full compliance by April 24, 2026. The new City website will meet these requirements and includes continued monitoring to ensure continued compliance.

Community Outreach Plan
As requirements for government websites have changed, so have the needs and desires of the community. City staff know that community feedback is an important part of the new website planning, design and launch. The goal of the outreach is to inform the community that the planning of a new City website is underway and that we are seeking feedback through a survey and two community meetings.

Visalia City Council Page 1 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0387 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 3.

The public is invited to learn more about the process and the new website that will be built by CivicPlus, with oversight and direction from the City, and how it will provide a modern, accessible, mobile-friendly, website. Utilizing CivicPlus allows the City to consolidate several independent initiatives into a single, efficient platform managed by one vendor. This consolidation will streamline staff responsibilities, reduce costs, and improve service delivery.

Messaging will include information on CivicPlus and that it’s been providing City websites and services for over 25 years, and was selected based on its comprehensive service offering, ease of use, and alignment with City goals. Over 10,000 local governments use their products including City of Bakersfield, City of Modesto, City of Kingsburg, City of East Palo Alto, City of Escondido, City of Santa Rosa, City of Diamond Bar, City of Woodland, City of San Bernardino, City of Arroyo Granda, City of Chino Hills, and many more.

Goals and Objectives
At the Visalia City Council’s 2025 Workshop, the Council’s Strategic Priorities and Goals were set.

Three specific sections of the document have items that are connected to the website process underway. These are 1) Growth and Infrastructure 2) Quality of Life and 3) Governance. At the top of this list is the Governance Year One Objective “Select a new website system and begin the transition of the website to be completed by April 2026. This process will include community outreach.” In total, the website process connects to nine sub-objectives identified by the City Manager, ranging from a community-wide calendar program to consistent and intentional communication with people who may communicate more effectively in other languages.

As previously reviewed by the City Council at the 6/16/2025 meeting, the overall goals of the project include:
· Replacement of Existing Website: Implement a modern, government-focused website platform.
· Technology Upgrade: Leverage up-to-date web, mobile, and social media technologies to enhance civic engagement.
· User Experience: Create a well-designed, intuitive, and easy-to-navigate website that offers a positive user experience.
· Content Management: Provide a streamlined, user-friendly content management system for staff to efficiently publish and manage content.
· Workflow Automation: Implement electronic review, approval, and publishing processes. · Information Architecture: Redesign the structure and navigation of the City’s website for improved usability and content discoverability.
· Program Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with existing programs and seamless integration with future tools, particularly those enabling virtual services and community engagement. · Constituent Relationship Management (CRM): Integrate an updated VisaliaWorks with CivicPlus’ SeeClickFix 311 CRM tool that allows residents to submit questions or service requests and centralizes all related communication, documentation, and task tracking serving as a new digital customer service module.
· Visual Identity: Develop a visually cohesive and brand-aligned website that reflects the City’s logo and color palette.
· Accessibility and Compliance: Ensure full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Visalia City Council Page 2 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0387 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 3.
(ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2. This includes review of content quality, broken links and other usability issues, such as color contrast and recommendations on correcting and updating content through AudioEye & Acquia Optimize tools. · Multilingual Access: Enable content translation to serve non-English-speaking residents and visitors.
· Data Security: Meet security standards consistent with local, state, and federal requirements. · Content Migration: Migrate all key documents and content from the existing website into the new system.
· Public Records Act Request Management: Allow for the submission and central management of public records requests through NextRequest, the public records request management tool. · Social Media Management: Archive and oversee multiple official social media accounts through ArchiveSocial, the social media management tool.

These goals will be woven into the community outreach and messaging. City staff has prepared an outreach plan that invites community members to be a part of the planning process by featuring a Community Survey and two community outreach Listening Sessions where community members can join City staff in receiving a brief update on the process and provide feedback on what they would like to see in a new City website.

The plan was reviewed by the internal City of Visalia Website Redesign Committee, which includes representatives from each City Department. It was also reviewed by the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) at their Tuesday, August 12 meeting. The feedback received from the staff Committee, and the CAC was implemented into the New Website Community Survey and the outreach plan.

Website Community Survey
The survey will be hosted on Microsoft Forms and launched on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The formal announcement of the survey will be released to the public via a press release, a News item on the City website and City social media pages, and notices in City offices.

The Survey will be available in English and Spanish and hosted digitally online at www.visalia.gov/NewWebsite. For those wishing to fill out a paper survey, print copies will be available at City of Visalia Administration Office, City Hall East, City Hall West and the Parks & Recreation Business Office. Once launched, the Website Community Survey will remain open for responses through Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

Listening Sessions & Comments
Two public meetings will be held for those in the community that would like to provide their feedback in-person. New City Website Listening Session #1 will be held on Thursday, September 4 from 6 - 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall West and New City Website Listening Session #2 will be held on Wednesday, September 10 from 6 - 7 p.m. also in the Council Chambers at City Hall West.

As requested by the CAC, a call-in option will be provided for those who cannot attend in-person.

Both Sessions will provide a brief presentation followed by the opportunity for questions and open discussion from those in attendance. The goal of the listening sessions is to share details of the project and solicit feedback from community members on what they would like to see on a new City Visalia City Council Page 3 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0387 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 3.
website. From Wednesday, September 3, 2025, through Wednesday, September 17, 2025, community members are also invited to submit comments and feedback to [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>.

Reviewing the Results
The survey responses, feedback from the listening sessions, and public comments received will be compiled and shared with the project team, which includes the City Website Redesign Committee and CivicPlus.

Fiscal Impact: Funding for supplies required for this outreach and the public meetings is available in the Communications Division budget.

Prior Council Action: 6/16/2025: Authorized the City Manager to enter into a (5) year service and software license agreement with CivicPlus for web services, including a new website, 311 resident service request system, public records request management system, social media monitoring and archiving, and accessibility monitoring, piggybacking the General Services Administration (GSA) Contract GS-35F-0124U, for a total of $570,000. 1/11/2025: Set Strategic Priorities and Goals that included Governence: Communication, Information & Feedback Year One Objective “Select a new website system and begin the transition of the website to be completed by April 2026. This process will include community outreach.” 12/16/24: Council approved appropriating funds for the remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) projects. The approved projects included the website refresh.

Other: None.

Alternatives: Direct staff to extend the community outreach timeline and/or include additional steps as directed by the City Council.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

No motion required.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: 1) Update on the New City Website Planning Process and Community Outreach PowerPoint 2) Outreach Plan for New City Website Feedback Citizen Advisory Committee Handout Visalia City Council Page 4 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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220 N. Santa Fe St. • Visalia, CA 93292 P (559) 713-4535 W visalia.gov

Administrative Services Department
Communications Division

Outreach Plan for New City Website Feedback
Citizen Advisory Committee Handout – 8.12.25
Overview
Communication Objectives

1. Announce the City’s plan to undergo a website redesign

2. Reach Visalia residents and ensure they are aware we are seeking feedback and will ultimately be launching a new City website in early 2026

3. Gather actionable feedback that can be folded into the planning of the new City website to improve usability, accessibility, and content clarity.

The goal of this outreach is to inform the community that the planning of a new City website is underway and that we are seeking their feedback through a survey and two community meetings.

Survey
- The survey will be hosted on Microsoft Forms and have a soft launch of Tuesday, September 2
o This ensures that the survey is open and available to anyone attending or watching the City Council meeting when the Council receives their presentation during Work Session
o Formal announcement of survey will be posted on the City website and social media on Wednesday, September 3, 2025
- Survey will run from Tuesday, September 2 through Tuesday, September 16, 2025 - Draft Survey Questions:
o 1. What best describes you? Please select all that apply:
 I am a resident of Visalia
 I work in Visalia
 I am visiting or plan to visit Visalia
 I am re-locating to Visalia
 I utilize City services (permits, licensing, etc)
 I am a Parks & Recreation program/event participant
 I am a Visalia business owner or potential business owner  Other (please describe)
o 2. How often do you visit the City of Visalia website?  Daily
 Weekly
 Monthly
 A few times a year
 I have never visited the City of Visalia website
45 220 N. Santa Fe St. • Visalia, CA 93292 P (559) 713-4535 W visalia.gov

Administrative Services Department
Communications Division

o 3. Which of the following devices do you use to access websites? (Please check all that apply)
 Computer laptop
 Tablet
 Smartphone
 Computer desktop
 Other (please describe)
o 4. How do you feel about your ability to navigate the current City of Visalia website?
 Very difficult
 Difficult
 Neither easy nor difficult
 Easy
 Very easy
 I have never used the City of Visalia website
o 5. What do you typically use the City of Visalia website for? (Please check all that apply)
 Paying my utility bill
 Finding contact information
 Applying for permits or licenses
 Reading City Council meeting agendas or viewing meetings  Accessing public records
 Checking event calendars or announcements
 Reporting issues or concerns
 I have never used the City of Visalia website
 Other: _______
o 6. Is it easy to find the information you’re looking for on the City of Visalia website?
 Yes, always
 Sometimes
 Rarely
 No, it’s difficult
o 7. Which of these features would you like to see on the new City of Visalia website? Please select all that apply:
 Easier search function
 Online forms and applications
 Mobile-friendly design
 Notifications or email updates
46 220 N. Santa Fe St. • Visalia, CA 93292 P (559) 713-4535 W visalia.gov

Administrative Services Department
Communications Division

 Online payment options
 Accessibility features (e.g., screen reader support)
 Language translation
 Community calendar
 Emergency alerts
 Other (Please describe
o 8. Which of the following features would you find most helpful on the City of Visalia website homepage? (Select up to 3)
 Pay a City bill
 View City Council meeting agendas or minutes
 Apply for a permit or license
 Report an issue (graffiti, potholes, etc.)
 Look at job openings
 Find Parks & Recreation program or event info
 Get latest City news
 Find City Department contact information
 Other (Please describe)
o 9. Are there any websites (local government or other) you regularly visit that you find especially useful, enjoyable, or well-designed?
 (Fill In)
o 10. Do you have any other comments, suggestions, or ideas for the new website?
Outreach
The communication channels and messaging will facilitate spreading the message of the survey and community meetings.
 Community Meetings
o Tuesday, August 12 at 5:30 p.m. Citizens Advisory Committee  Will present to the CAC for their August meeting
o Tuesday, September 2 from 4 p.m. City Council Meeting Work Session  Will present on website update, plan and survey
o Thursday, September 4 from 6 – 7 p.m. Public Meeting
 Will provide brief presentation followed by “Listening Session” to receive public feedback on what Visalians would like to see on new website  Held in the Council Chambers, with light refreshments, reserved with Purchasing
o Wednesday, September 10 6 – 7 p.m. Public Meeting
 Will provide brief presentation followed by “Listening Session” to receive public feedback on what Visalians would like to see on new website 47 220 N. Santa Fe St. • Visalia, CA 93292 P (559) 713-4535 W visalia.gov

Administrative Services Department
Communications Division

 Held in the Council Chambers, with light refreshments, reserved with Purchasing
 Other
o City Website (Create page www.visalia.gov/NewWebsite to host survey link and additional information)
o Press Release
o Release to Media and Community Organizations
o Information sent to all City of Visalia Committee & Commissions o City Live & Play Newsletter
o Print Materials (fliers for lobby spaces and offices) o City Intranet news item
o Survey link in the City Employee Newsletter (will check dates) o Social Media (Main City accounts and Department pages) 48 Update on
New City Website
Planning & Process
Presented by:

Communications Division September 2, 2025
49 SUMMARY
With the City’s agreement in place with Civic
Plus for web services staff have moved
forward in preparing and scheduling the
implementation of a community outreach plan.

The plan has been designed to receive
feedback from the public on the design,
function and features of the new City website.
50 BACKGROUND DISCUSSION
• Staff have kicked off project and are in fact finding and brand sharing phase with CivicPlus.

Work on the New City Website Underway
The Project Will...
• Modernize the City’s main digital presence.
• Enhance access to services.
• Foster greater civic engagement with completely new
website.
51 FEDERAL COMPLIANCE
• Web Content Accessibility
Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1,
Level AA is the technical standard
for state and local governments’
web content and mobile apps.
• The City must achieve full
compliance by April 24, 2026, and
remain compliant.

DOJ Civil Rights Division Requirements
52 KEY MESSAGING
Where we’ve been
and what this
project will deliver
to our residents.

The Why CivicPlus Team
We want to inform the community that the process of a new City website is underway and that we are seeking their feedback. Through City channels, we’ll explain the process.

What It Will Provide Benefits
Why CivicPlus was
chosen, their
experience and their
other clients.

Share details on the
coming modern,
accessible, mobile
friendly new site.

Improve service
delivery, make info
easier to access,
reduce costs.
53 CITY COUNCIL

STRATEGIC

PRIORITIES & GOALS
Project Ties Directly to “Governance”
Per Council’s Strategic Priorities & Goals: Foster an
organization that has the tools, skills and passion to
provide a government that is responsive, principled,
and aligned with the community’s needs and values.
54 OBJECTIVES TIED TO PROJECT
Improve internal
processes.

Growth and
Infrastructure
Quality
of Life
Governance
Community
Calendar and
Newcomer Program.

New website,
customer service
module and more.
55 PROJECT GOALS
• Replacement of City Website
• Technology Upgrade
• User Experience
• Content Management
• Workflow Automation
• Information Architecture
• Program Compatibility
• Constituent Relationship Management
• Visual Identity
• Accessibility and Compliance
• Multilingual Access
• Data Security
• Content Migration
• Public Records Act Request Management
• Social Media Management
56 PROJECT COMPONENTS
• New Website
• SeeClickFix (VisaliaWorks)
Solution that empowers residents to report issues,
identify repair needs, and ask questions.
• Social Media Archiving AKA Archive Social
Social media archiving solution.
• NextRequest
All-in-one public records request portal.
• AudioEye
Digital accessibility tool, focuses on web
accessability compliance
57 Digital survey in
English and Spanish,
hard copy surveys
available.

Listening Sessions
Two community
outreach meetings for
in-person feedback
and questions.

Comments can be
submitted via email
and social media.

Survey Comment Period

OUTREACH ELEMENTS
58 9/2/25
Council
Presentation
Listening
Session #1
Survey
Launches
Listening
Session #2

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

TIMELINE
9/3/25 9/4/25 9/10/25 9/17/25
Survey
Closes
Comments will be accepted throughout the Outreach timeline. 59 RESULTS
All survey results and comments will be compiled
by City staff and shared with the Website
Redesign Project Team and CivicPlus.
• Compiled and shared with the Project Team
• Organized by overall goals
All survey results and comments will be organized
and linked to one or more of the overall goals of
the project.
• Valuable Input for Project process
The feedback will be valuable insight as
components, specific features and overall design
decisions are made.
60 QUESTIONS
Find the survey, listening session
info and more details online at
www.visalia.gov/NewWebsite.
61 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0355 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 4.

Agenda Item Wording:

Fire Station 51 Update - Review renderings and select an exterior building style.

Prepared by:

Mike Porter, Civil Engineer, [email protected] (559) 713-4412 Chris Crawford, City Engineer, [email protected] (559) 713-4331 Jason Huckleberry, Engineering & Building Director, [email protected] (559) 713-4495 Department Recommendation: Receive an update on the Fire Station 51 building renderings and make a recommendation on the exterior building style.

Summary:

At the council meeting held on August 4, 2025, staff presented council with three exterior design concepts for Fire Station 51 (FS 51). The three styles presented were Traditional Retrofit, Early California, and Modern/Transitional.

Multiple examples of each style were presented to Council, and after discussing the pros and cons of each alternative, Council directed staff to return with more detailed renderings depicting FS 51 using the traditional and early California styles. The updated renderings are attached to this staff report for the Council to make a final decision:

1. Option A - Modified Traditional Retrofit Style

2. Option B - Modified Early California Style
The City’s consultant architect, RRM Design Group, prepared the renderings and has reviewed estimated costs for each. RRM has confirmed there is no significant cost difference between these two options. The cost estimate shown further below includes the cost for either option.

Background Discussion:

Fire Station 51, situated at 309 S. Johnson Street, is the main fire department headquarters and has been a vital part of the community for several decades. Station 51 is an essential services building located in the heart of Visalia and serves both the downtown community and much of central Visalia.

City staff recently completed the process of soliciting proposals from qualified design professionals for a new Fire Station 51. This new station is intended to upgrade facilities and provide much-needed additional space for the firefighters, the equipment, and larger fire engines. This new facility is intended to serve the community for the next 50-plus years.

The new station will be constructed across the street from the existing station, and will occupy the existing city-owned parking lot area between Conyer St. and Stevenson St. This strategic location will help ensure coverage of the current emergency response area and emergency response times provided by current Fire Station 51. (see attached vicinity map) Visalia City Council Page 1 of 3 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0355 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 4.

The new Fire Station 51 is being designed to meet current operational needs, which include housing eight firefighters on a continuous 24/7 basis, two paramedics during daytime hours, and providing quarters for the battalion chief. Fire Station 51 is being designed to meet California Building Code requirements for Essential Services Building construction. Design for Essential Services Buildings follow more stringent structural design and construction requirements to prevent catastrophic collapse and ensure facilities are able to provide essential services to the public following a disaster.

Staff is also considering future needs and the station is being designed to accommodate a maximum capacity of 12 personnel on a 24/7 schedule to meet future growth through a space needs assessment. To determine the precise space requirements, the consultant conducted a space needs assessment in close collaboration with City Staff. The current building size is 18,500 square feet, and the site size is approximately 1.50 acres. This assessment played a pivotal role in determining the ultimate square footage required for the new Fire Station 51.

In addition to the expanded living quarters, the station has been designed with adequate space for the four frontline units currently stationed at Fire Station 51, comprising two large fire trucks and two sizeable SUVs. Furthermore, provisions have been made for the storage of a reserve ladder truck and breathing support apparatus.

Fiscal Impact:
1410-72000/CP0415-999. The project currently has $4,400,000 budgeted from the Measure N Fund (141). The current project budget is sufficient to cover the cost of the design phase of the project and the cost of the construction management contract. Additional funds will be required to complete the construction phase of the project. These additional funds will be requested at the time of award of the construction contract, and after approval from the Measure N committee.

Budget Summary: CP0415
Project Funding
Available CIP Funding $4,400,000
Estimated Project Costs:

Estimated Construction Cost $20,350,000
Architect/Engineer (actual cost) $794,787
Construction Manager (actual cost) $889,000
Surveying (1%) $200,000
City Staff Time (2%) $400,000
Construction Contingency (10%) $2,000,000
Inspection/Testing (2%) $400,000
Permits/Fees (2%) $400,000
Total Estimated Project Costs 25,433,787
Total Estimated Deficit ($21,033,787)
Visalia City Council Page 2 of 3 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0355 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 4.

Prior Council Action:
8/4/25 - Council received an update on FS 51 and staff requested council select an exterior building style for the project.
11/6/23 - Council authorized the City Manager to enter into a contract with RRM Design Group for professional consulting services to prepare plans, specifications, and estimates for a new Fire Station 51 for an amount not to exceed $797,787.
11/18/24 - Council authorized the City Manager to execute a contract with Griffin Structures, Inc. for construction management services in the amount of $889,000 Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to authorize staff to move forward with exterior building style:

1. Option A - Modified Traditional Retrofit Style

2. Option B - Modified Early California Style
Environmental Assessment Status: In progress
CEQA Review: In progress
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments:

Vicinity Map
Building Renderings
Visalia City Council Page 3 of 3 Printed on 8/29/2025
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3/4" = 1'-0"
VISALIA FIRE STATION 51 EXTERIOR VIEWS - MODERN A.2
309 S Johnson St, Visalia, CA 93291
3161-01-PS24
08/21/2025
1 VISALIA FIRE STATION 1 - MODERN
OPTION A PERSPECTIVE FRONT ELEVATION SW PERSPECTIVE 08/28/2025 65 3/4" = 1'-0"
VISALIA FIRE STATION 51 EXTERIOR VIEWS - MISSION A.1309 S Johnson St, Visalia, CA 93291 3161-01-PS24
08/21/2025
1 VISALIA FIRE STATION 1 - MISSION
OPTION B PERSPECTIVE FRONT ELEVATION SW PERSPECTIVE 08/28/2025 66 Alley
S
C
o
n
y
er St
S
Ste
v
e
n
s
o
n
St
W Mineral King Ave
W Acequia Ave
® Street Names
City Limits
Streets

PARCELS
0 50 100 150 200 25
Feet
City of Visalia
Phase VI of the Riverway Sports Park
67 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0254 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

Authorization to read ordinances by title only.

Visalia City Council Page 1 of 1 Printed on 8/20/2025
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Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0334 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 2.

Agenda Item Wording:

Authorize Purchase of Passenger Transit Vans - Authorize the City Manager to utilize the California Association for Coordinated Transportation Morongo Basin Transit Authority cooperative contract for Class P passenger transit vans to enter into a contract in the amount of $685,389 with Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, for the purchase of four (4) Braun-Lonestar Class P passenger transit vans for the Visalia Transit Dial-A-Ride service.

Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Submitting Department: Administration - Transit Division Contact Name and Phone Number:

Caleb Bowman, Transit Management Analyst, [email protected], (559)713-4594 Angelina Baker, Transit Manager, [email protected], (559)713-4591 John Lollis, Assistant City Manager, [email protected], (559)713-4323 Department Recommendation:

Staff is recommending that the City Council authorize the City Manager to utilize the California Association for Coordinated Transportation (CalACT)/Morongo Basin Transit Authority (Basin Transit) cooperative contract for Class P passenger transit vans to enter into a contract in the amount of $685,389 with Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, Inc., formerly Creative Bus Sales, Inc., for the purchase of four (4) Braun-Lonestar Class P passenger transit vans for the Visalia Transit Dial-A-Ride service.

Background Discussion:

Visalia Transit currently operates ten (10) cutaway buses; eight (8) buses of are required to support peak demand on the Dial-A-Ride (DAR) service that serves the City of Visalia, unincorporated community of Goshen, City of Farmersville, and City of Exeter. Currently, the DAR fleet has an average age of eleven (11) years and average lifetime miles of 173,000, with half of the buses being over fourteen (14) years old with over 200,000 miles, which is past their useful life. The useful life is determined by age and mileage requirements set by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). FTA has determined that light-duty mid-sized buses (cutaways, 25-35-foot buses with a seating capacity of 16-25 passengers) have a useful life of 5-years and/or 150,000 miles. With that being said, buses don’t necessarily need to be replaced simply because they’re 5 years old. Buses that are properly maintained can typically have more useful life than what is determined by the FTA making it more fiscally responsible and beneficial to keep them in service longer. Additionally, the cost of parts for buses during repairs is covered by the Operations and Maintenance contractor. This means that the negotiated maintenance price between RATP Dev and The City of Visalia, when established, took into consideration the age of the vehicles. With each of these elements considered, it is more fiscally responsible for the City to get as many useful life years out of each of the vehicles as possible.

Lastly, the ability to get more useful life years out of a vehicle, also aids in spreading out vehicle replacements rather than creating a situation where a large number of buses or vehicles would need Visalia City Council Page 1 of 3 Printed on 8/28/2025
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File #: 25-0334 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 2.
to be replaced all at once. This is strategic in budgeting and planning for fleet replacement.

At this time, staff recommends the purchase of four (4) new Braun-Lonestar Class P passenger transit vans to replace four (4) 2011 model year CNG cutaway buses with over 200,000 miles which have outlived their useful lives. Transit staff have looked at the maximum passenger load of the DAR service to see if the 18-passenger cutaway is needed for the service. Contracted (RATP) staff confirmed that there are no more than eight (8) ambulatory passengers and no more than two (2) passengers in a wheelchair onboard the buses at any given time. The cutaways being replaced are 12-18 passengers with 2-3 wheelchair positions and double the price of the Class P passenger transit van. Transit staff is recommending the downsize of most of the DAR vehicles from 18- passenger cutaways to 8-passenger transit vans. The details of each vehicle to be replaced under this project are listed below in Table 1
Table 1
Fixed
Asset #
Mfr.

Year
Bus Make Fuel
Type
Length
(ft.)
No. of
Seats
Date InServiceAge Useful
Life
(yrs.)
Odometer
Reading
(mi.)
Useful
Life (mi.)
F12562 2011 Elkhart Coach CNG 23 18 8/29/11 14 5 218,128 150,000 F12564 2011 Elkhart Coach CNG 23 18 8/29/11 14 5 220,082 150,000 F12565 2011 Elkhart Coach CNG 23 18 8/29/11 14 5 227,773 150,000 F12566 2011 Elkhart Coach CNG 23 18 8/29/11 14 5 245,232 150,000 The grant allocations and appropriations in the current CIP VH0317 budget for this purchase are shown below in Table 2.

Table 2
Funding Source Allocation
FTA Section 5339 $411,233
FTA Section 5307 $137,078
LTF $137,078
Total Project $685,389
Fiscal Impact:

The funding for this vehicle purchase is currently appropriated in CIP VH0317, which has a total budget of $1,674,200. It is noteworthy to mention that the 5307 funds in the amount of $137,078 have a lapsing funds date of 09/30/2025.

Prior Council Action:

None.

Other:

None.

Alternatives:

Council can elect to reject this purchase which would delay the fleet replacement schedule.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to authorize the City Manager to utilize the California Association for Coordinated Transportation/Morongo Basin Transit Authority contract for Class P passenger transit vans to enter into a contract in the amount of $685,389 with Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, for the purchase of four Visalia City Council Page 2 of 3 Printed on 8/28/2025
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File #: 25-0334 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 2.
into a contract in the amount of $685,389 with Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, for the purchase of four (4) Braun-Lonestar Class P passenger transit vans for the Visalia Transit Dial-A-Ride service.

Environmental Assessment Status:

None.

CEQA Review:

None.

Attachments:
1) Model 1 Quote Sheet
2) CalACT Letter of Assignment to Purchase
3) Morongo Basin Transit Authority Contract No. 20-01
4) Creative Bus Sales, Inc. Notice of Name Change
Visalia City Council Page 3 of 3 Printed on 8/28/2025
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Vehicle Type: Date:

Contact: Ramp Info:

Agency: Seat Material Level:

Address: Seat Color:

City, State, Zip: Flooring and Color:

Phone: Salesperson:

E‐Mail: Salesperson Cell:

Delivery: Salesperson E‐Mail:

Quantity: Price Ext. Price ADA
1 $148,464.00 $148,464.00 $78,265.00
.
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 Std Std Std
1 $886.00 $886.00
1 Std Std Std
.
2 $0.00 $0.00
1 $0.00 $0.00
1 $500.00 $500.00
1 Router/Antenna Install $4,400.00 $4,400.00
1 REI 6 Camera With Install (Visalia Spec) $5,869.00 $5,869.00 1 Storage Box/DVR Holder in place of co‐pilot seat $1,574.00 $1,574.00 1 Fabricate/Install Bracket for GFI Genfare Fast Fare (See Pictures) $0.00 $0.00 1 Graphics (Visalia Dial A Ride Layout) $0.00 $0.00
.
. Class P ‐ Base Price $148,464.00
. Published Options $886.00
. Non‐Published Options $12,343.00
. Total $161,693.00 $78,265.00
. Doc Prep Fee $85.00
. The Non‐Taxable Amount is the ADA Equipment in the Base and Added as Options Non‐Taxable $78,265.00 . Taxable Amount $83,513.00
. 1685 Tax Total $7,098.61 8.500%
. Sub‐Total $168,876.61
. CalACT Fee $2,425.40
. DMV E‐File Fee: $33.00
. DMV Fee $0.00 (Estimated)
. Tire Fee $12.25
. Total $171,347.25 Insert Miles
Number of Units 4
Final Total $685,389.00
64 ‐ Roof Mounted Grab Bar
65 ‐ Wheelchair Area Grab Bar
72 ‐ Rear Tow Hooks
51 ‐ Braun Ramp ILO OEM
62 ‐ External Power Door Lock Switch
63 ‐ Grab Bar Rear Seating Area
45 ‐ Drivers Running Board
49 ‐ Horizontal Wall Grabrail at Wheelchair Position
21 ‐ Shoulder Belt Mount kit ‐ Seatbelts Same Direction Rear Bench 15 ‐ Rear Step‐Up to Seating Area in Rear of Van
97 ‐ Delivery Zone 1
82 ‐ Rear Backup Camera and Monitor
Braun ‐ Lonestar ‐ Class P ‐ 3500 159" 8‐pass/2WC
*112 ‐ Bus Style electric bus door (3500 Only. N/A for 1500) 909‐730‐5319
30-45 Days from PO (Currently In Stock) *Depending on Options* [email protected] Purchasing of vehicles requires a CALACT membership, letter of assignment, and payment of procurement fee.

If you have any questions, please contact CALACT direct at 916‐920‐8018..

Description
Q‐Straint ONE Tie Down System
Gray
Visalia, CA 93291 Altro Meta Storm (Gray)
City of Visalia
559‐713‐4592 Mike Farr
CalACT MBTA RFP #20‐01 ‐ Class P ‐ Quote Sheet (Rev 2022) Class P ‐ BraunAbility Promaster (Buy America Compliant) 8/27/2025 Vinyl
Freedman Seat Link System
Carmen Quevado
425 E. Oak Ave, Suite 301
[email protected]
Non‐Published Options
Published Options
Ram Tablet Mount
Braun Front Side Loader
Class P 1 OF 1 8/27/2025
ADA AMOUNT $78,265 Includes Items Below
-Low floor materials and labor (Compliant with ADA Law) -Braun Ramp
-Wheelchair area grab handles, ADA compliant van, etc.
-ADA tie down kits (Belts/Lap/Shoulder)
-ADA Q One Wheelchair system (2)
72 73

CAMERA SPECS
74 BraunAbility ProMaster 3500
*Photos not to exact specifications
75 FAREBOX BRACKET EXAMPLES
76 Promaster CompanionVan® - Buy America
Model1.com | 800.326.2877 77
Standard Equipment
• Lowered floor, side entry, long cut conversion with bus style door • BraunAbility manual swing away ramp 32” wide
• Gerfloor flooring
• Insulated ABS interior ceiling & walls
• New exhaust system
• New Freedman GO-ES seating
• Safety Kit (first aid kit, fire extinguisher, triangles) • Back up alarm - interlock system
• LED strip lighting
• Emergency exit
• Driver and passenger sidesteps
• Handrails & decals
• 36” A&M Systems power door
• Fast idle
• Amber LED light
Q’Straint InQline Assist
• Controlled steering – provides operators full control of the passenger boarding and deboarding process
• Reduces driver injury and operator liability
• Increased loading capacity
• Safety stop
• Enhanced rider experience
• Automatic winch system Q’Straint Omni Floor
• Interlocking aluminum planks
• Ultra-durable and corrosion resistant
• Change your layout
• Light and strong
• A smart investment
Q’Straint One (Qty. 2)
• All-in-one wheelchair securement station
• Fully secure wheelchair in under a minute
• Easy & intuitive - easy to reach hook ups
• Simple color & numbering sequencing, visual indicators, pre-positioned belt, and push-button operation
• Overall dimensions - width 30”, height 1.41”, length 48” • Q’Straint One is fully crash tested and meets all current ADA requirements, including RESNA WC-4, Section 18; WC18,
WC19, and 150-1054-1
Freedman Seating Upgrades
• Armrest
• Additional seat bottom cushion
• Stainless steel grab handles
• Level 5 vinyl - Docket 90 gray
• Seat Link
•Seat sensors track occupancy
and belt status, and wirelessly
communicate to the driver
• A head unit displays seat status
of all passenger seats, records and
stores data in case of an event
Trans/Air AC System
• Specifically designed for Ram Promaster
• Stand alone system
• Total cooling capacity - 50,000 BTU
Promaster CompanionVan® - Buy America
17” Wide Seats 19” Wide Seats
Model1.com | 800.326.2877 78
1 Ram Pro Master 3500 Van Ext. Cargo Van 159” WB Lowered floor side entry conversion‐bus door style
* Gerflor Flooring or equal approved
* Panels for Walls: ABS Interior wall, ABS ceiling Insulation for walls * Set of Q’Straint with L Track ‐ QRT 360
* Air Conditioner: Rear AC and Rear Heat
* New Exhaust System
*2 ‐ Passenger Freedman Seats, 3pt (on back‐level 4 vinyl) curbside *2 ‐ Passenger Freedman Seats, 3 pt (on back‐level 4 vinyl) streetside *2 per van /1 Passenger rigid seats (level 4 vinyl) curbside *2 per van / 1 Passenger rigid seat (level 4 vinyl) streetside * Safety Kit (first aid kit, fire extinguisher, triangles) * Back up alarm‐Interlock System
* LED strip lighting
* Emergency window
* Kit stowage Assy‐Q5‐8525‐SC
* Driver & Passenger side step
* Handrails‐& Decals
* 36” A&M Systems Power Door
* Fast Idle *required*
* Amber LED light

QTY OPTION DESCRIPTION
1 12" belt extender
1 Qstraint 20" belt extender
4 14" webbing loops
1 Belt web cutter
1 Dash Warning Light
1 TA45LPSC2SLP Super 10
* 10 unit first aid kit
* Blood pathogen kit
* 2.5 4 BC fire extinguisher
* Reflective triangles
79 (Provide complete warranty information and parchment with proposal) Warranty Miles Years
Body Structure 36,000 3 years
Chassis 36,000 3 years
Engine 60,000 5 years
Transmission 60,000 5 years
Air conditioner Unlimited 3 years
Lift/Ramp Unlimited 5 years
EV Battery N/A N/A
EV Conversion/Installation N/A N/A
CNG Warranty N/A N/A
(Install and tanks)

SUMMARY OF STANDARD WARRANTIES
80 81
82 83
84 85
Creative Bus Sales | 888.633.8380 | CreativeBusSales.com 9365 Counselors Row, Suite 112, Indianapolis, IN 46240
May 22, 2023
Re: Notice of Name Change and Headquarters Address Change To whom it may concern:

Effective June 13, 2023, Creative Bus Sales, Inc. will be changing its name to Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, Inc.

This change was made with great intentionality and vision from our leadership team. The name change was necessary to address our expansion into additional service and product lines while also demonstrating how we want to move into the future. We faced a reality that our company name, Creative Bus Sales, had become too limiting. We were already more than buses and more than sales. We will expand even further than bus sales by leading the industry in electric vehicles and commercial alternative fuel applications. The update to Model 1 Commercial Vehicles reflects both our business strategy and the gofirst mindset we bring to the industry.

Our Federal Employment Identification Number and tax status as an Indiana S Corporation are not changing. Model 1 Commercial Vehicles remains a family-owned company and looks forward to serving our customers for many years to come.

Additionally, on July 1, 2023, our Indianapolis headquarters will be moving to allow for continued expansion. Our new Indianapolis address will be:
9225 Priority Way
Suite 300
Indianapolis, IN 46240
If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

Sincerely,
Tony Matijevich
President
86 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0354 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 3.

Agenda Item Wording:

Park Project Notice of Completion - Request authorization to file a Notice of Completion for the Stonebrook Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.

Prepared by: Daryl Tillman, Park Maintenance Supervisor 713-4435; [email protected] Alvin Dias, Parks and Facilities Manager 713-4564; [email protected] Jason Glick, Parks and Recreation Director 713-4042; [email protected]
Department Recommendation: Staff recommend that the City Council authorize the filing of a Notice of Completion for the Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project at Stonebrook Park.

Summary:

The scope of work included the design and installation of a freestanding shade structure. The contract was awarded to Bakersfield Paving Inc. at the April 15, 2024, City Council Meeting in the amount of $139,572.74.

Background Discussion:

On March 12, 2024, and March 19, 2024, the City solicited bids by advertising in the Visalia Times Delta and the Request for Proposals (RFP) was posted on Bid-Net. The City also emailed the RFP notices to contractors who have requested to be on the City’s construction projects list to participate in this bid process.

On March 27, 2024, and March 28, 2024, two mandatory pre-bid meetings were held at Stonebrook Park. Several contractors attended the pre-bid meetings. During the pre-bid meetings, staff reviewed the bid specifications, reviewed the mandatory requirements imposed by the State of California Department of Industrial Relations, and answered any questions.

Staff received several questions from contractors where staff carefully reviewed and answered them in a separate addendum.

On April 11, 2024, the City received one proposal from Bakersfield Paving Inc. A selection committee was formed and met on April 30, 2024.

The selection committee reviewed the designs in a two-part process. The first review of the proposals that were submitted used the design criteria that were established in RFP #23-24-12F. During their review the committee felt that the proposal submitted by Bakersfield Paving Inc. met the design criteria established in RFP #23-24-12F. Staff then submitted the results to the Purchasing Division and the sealed cost proposal was released to the selection committee for review. The selection committee then meet again on May 8, 2024, to review the cost for the design and concluded that the Bakersfield Paving Inc. proposal met the requirements of RFP #23-24-12F and the needs of the Visalia City Council Page 1 of 2 Printed on 8/26/2025
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File #: 25-0354 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 3.
community.

Fiscal Impact: The fiscal impact for the Stonebrook Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project was part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), of which $3,900,000 was budgeted for park improvements (Project No. 3880-72000/CP0763-999). There were no change orders for the Stonebrook Park Project.

Stonebrook Park Playground Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project CIP 3880-72000/CP0763-999
Fund 388 - ARPA Fund $140,116.71
Actual Construction Costs
Bakersfield Paving Inc. $139,572.74
Legal Advertisement $ 57.43
Building Permit $ 486.54
Total Project Costs $140,116.71
Prior Council Action: April 15, 2024 - Council authorized the City Manager to award and enter into a construction contract with Bakersfield Paving Inc. for the Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.

Other: None
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

Move to Authorize the filing of a Notice of Completion for the Stonebrook Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: Location Map, Draft Notice of Completion, Site Photos Visalia City Council Page 2 of 2 Printed on 8/26/2025
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Stonebrook Park Site Map
Playground
Area
89 Recording requested by and
Please mail instrument to:

City of Visalia
315 E. Acequia Ave.

Visalia, CA 93291
Attn: City Engineer
This instrument benefits City only. No fee required
per Government Code Section 6103
Project
Notice of Completion
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the City of Visalia, a Municipal Corporation of the State of California, located at 315 E. Acequia Avenue, Visalia, California, 93291, Owner in fee of the property, that the work of improvement on the property described as:

STONEBROOK PARK SHADE STRUCTURE DESIGN & INSTALLATION SERVICES, AT VARIOUS PARKS. (PROJECT NO. 3880-72000/CP0763-999) under the contract agreement entered into with Mountain Vista Construction dated 04/15/2024, as a whole was completed on 7/29/2025 and the City of Visalia hereby accepts said work.

Christopher Crawford, City Engineer and agent of the City of Visalia, deposes and says that he has read said Notice of Completion and knows the contents thereof, and that the same is true of his own knowledge; that he makes this affidavit for and on behalf of the City of Visalia. __________________________________
Date

CITY OF VISALIA
BY __________________________________________
Christopher Crawford
City Engineer
State of California
County of Tulare
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on this __________________ day of _________________, 20_______, by ______________, proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person who appeared before me.
___________________________________
Date
__________________________________________
Notary Signature
A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document. 90 91
92 Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0367 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 4.

Agenda Item Wording:

Park Project Notice of Completion - Request authorization to file a Notice of Completion for the Sunset Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.

Prepared by: Daryl Tillman, Park Maintenance Supervisor 713-4435; [email protected] Alvin Dias, Parks and Facilities Manager 713-4564; [email protected] Jason Glick, Parks and Recreation Director 713-4042; [email protected]
Department Recommendation: Staff recommends that the City Council authorize the filing of a Notice of Completion for the Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project at Sunset Park.

Summary:

Background Discussion:

On March 27, 2024, and March 28, 2024, two mandatory pre-bid meetings were held at Sunset Park.

Several contractors attended the pre-bid meetings. During the pre-bid meetings, staff reviewed the bid specifications, reviewed the mandatory requirements imposed by the State of California Department of Industrial Relations, and answered any questions.

Staff received several questions from contractors where staff carefully reviewed and answered them in a separate addendum.

On April 11, 2024, the City received two proposals from Bakersfield Paving Inc. and Anchor 41 Construction. A selection committee was formed and met on April 30, 2024.

Staff then submitted the results to the Purchasing Division and the sealed cost proposal was released to the selection committee for review. The selection committee then meet again on May 8, 2024, to review the cost for the design and concluded that the Bakersfield Paving Inc. proposal met the requirements of RFP #23-24-12G and the needs of the community.

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File #: 25-0367 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 4.

Fiscal Impact: The fiscal impact for the Sunset Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project was part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), of which $3,900,000 was budgeted for park improvements (Project No. 3880-72000/CP0763-999). There were no change orders for the Sunset Park Project.

Sunset Park Playground Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project CIP 3880-72000/CP0763-999
Fund 388 - ARPA Fund $151,583.81
Actual Construction Costs
Bakersfield Paving Inc. $151,039.84
Legal Advertisement $ 57.43
Building Permit $ 486.54
Total Project Costs $151,583.81
Prior Council Action: April 15, 2024 - Council authorized the City Manager to award and enter into a construction contract with Bakersfield Paving Inc. for the Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.

Other: None
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

Move to Authorize the filing of a Notice of Completion for the Sunset Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project
Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: Location Map, Draft Notice of Completion, Site Photos Visalia City Council Page 2 of 2 Printed on 8/26/2025
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Sunset Park Site Map
Playground
Area
95 Recording requested by and
Please mail instrument to:

City of Visalia
315 E. Acequia Ave.

SUNSET PARK SHADE STRUCTURE DESIGN & INSTALLATION SERVICES, AT VARIOUS PARKS. (PROJECT NO. 3880-72000/CP0763-999) under the contract agreement entered into with Mountain Vista Construction dated 04/15/2024, as a whole was completed on 7/29/2025 and the City of Visalia hereby accepts said work.

CITY OF VISALIA
BY __________________________________________
Christopher Crawford
City Engineer
State of California
County of Tulare
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on this __________________ day of _________________, 20_______, by ______________, proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person who appeared before me.
___________________________________
Date
__________________________________________
Notary Signature
A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document. 96 97
98 99
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0368 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 5.

Agenda Item Wording:

Park Project Notice of Completion - Request authorization to file a Notice of Completion for the Whitendale Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.

Summary:

Background Discussion:

On March 27, 2024, and March 28, 2024, two mandatory pre-bid meetings were held at Whitendale Park. Several contractors attended the pre-bid meetings. During the pre-bid meetings, staff reviewed the bid specifications, reviewed the mandatory requirements imposed by the State of California Department of Industrial Relations, and answered any questions.

Staff received several questions from contractors where staff carefully reviewed and answered them in a separate addendum.

On April 11, 2024, the City received three proposals from three (3) proposers. A selection committee was formed and met on April 30, 2024.

The selection committee reviewed the designs in a two-part process. The first review of the proposals that were submitted used the design criteria that were established in RFP #23-24-12E. During their review the committee felt that the proposals submitted by Bakersfield Paving Inc. and Zoom Recreation had the top two designs and met the design criteria established in RFP #23-24-12E. Staff then submitted the results to the Purchasing Division and the sealed cost proposal was released to the selection committee for review. The selection committee then meet again on May 8, 2024, to review the cost for the design and concluded that the Bakersfield Paving Inc. proposal met the Visalia City Council Page 1 of 2 Printed on 8/26/2025
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File #: 25-0368 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 5.
requirements of RFP #23-24-12E and the needs of the community.

Fiscal Impact: The fiscal impact for the Whitendale Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project was part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), of which $3,900,000 was budgeted for park improvements in (Project No. 3880-72000/CP0763-999). There were no change orders for the Whitendale Park Project.

Whitendale Park Playground Shade Structure Design &
Installation Services Project CIP 3880-72000/CP0763-999 Fund 388 - ARPA Fund $120,248.16
Actual Construction Costs
Bakersfield Paving Inc. $119,704.19
Legal Advertisement $ 57.43
Building Permit $ 486.54
Total Project Costs $120,248.16
Prior Council Action: April 15, 2024 - Council authorized the City Manager to award and enter into a construction contract with Bakersfield Paving Inc. for the Shade Structure Design & Installation Services.

Other: None
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

Move to Authorize the filing of a Notice of Completion for the Whitendale Park Shade Structure Design & Installation Services Project
Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: Location Map, Draft Notice of Completion, Site Photos Visalia City Council Page 2 of 2 Printed on 8/26/2025
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Whitendale Park Site Map
Playground
Area
102
Recording requested by and
Please mail instrument to:

City of Visalia
315 E. Acequia Ave.

WHITENDALE PARK SHADE STRUCTURE DESIGN & INSTALLATION SERVICES, AT VARIOUS PARKS. (PROJECT NO. 3880-72000/CP0763-999) under the contract agreement entered into with Mountain Vista Construction dated 04/15/2024, as a whole was completed on 7/29/2025 and the City of Visalia hereby accepts said work.

CITY OF VISALIA
BY __________________________________________
Christopher Crawford
City Engineer
State of California
County of Tulare
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on this __________________ day of _________________, 20_______, by ______________, proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person who appeared before me.
___________________________________
Date
__________________________________________
Notary Signature
A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document. 103
104
105
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0376 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 6.

Agenda Item Wording:

Approval of Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan - Approval of the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) and authorize the City Manager to sign on behalf of Visalia Transit and to annually review and approve.

Submitting Department: Administration - Transit Division Prepared by:

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the draft Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) and authorize the City Manager to sign on behalf of Visalia Transit and to annually review and approve.

Summary:

In compliance with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations, City staff has developed a new PTASP in conjunction with the new contractor RATP Dev USA (RATP). The previous adopted PTASP was developed in conjunction with the previous contractor Transdev, then First Transit, which included policies and procedures specific to First Transit. This is a draft PTASP since staff is waiting on data from the prior fiscal year, July 2024 through June 2025, for actual counts and to estimate the Fiscal Year 2025-26 targets, however, the policies and procedures will not change.

Background Discussion:

On July 19, 2018, the FTA published the PTASP Final Rule, which requires certain operators of public transportation systems that receive federal funds under FTA's Urbanized Area (UZA) Formula Grants to develop safety plans that include the processes and procedures to implement Safety Management Systems (SMS). The FTA published a Notice of Enforcement Discretion on April 22, 2020, effectively extending the PTASP compliance deadline from July 20, 2020 to December 31, 2020. The rule applies to all operators of public transportation systems that are recipients and sub-recipients of federal financial assistance under the UZA Formula Program (49 U.S.C. § 5307).

Visalia Transit is required by the FTA to have a PTASP as recipients of federal funding. The plan was developed in conjunction with RATP policies and procedures, since they operate Visalia Transit’s service. Although RATP policies and procedures, it is the City’s sole responsibility to hold the contractor accountable and ensure the safety plan is being followed. The PTASP addresses both Visalia Transit’s and the contractor’s staff roles and responsibilities, safety and training policies, reporting and communication of incidents, and safety performance targets.

Visalia City Council Page 1 of 2 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0376 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 6.

Reviewing safety practices is an ongoing process as policies/procedures and training techniques change over time and changes are communicated throughout the organization. All changes throughout the year are reviewed and approved by the City’s Transit Manager and the contractor’s General Manager. The beginning of each fiscal year (July 1st), Visalia Transit’s PTASP is reviewed by Transit management and revised based on the safety data collected and analyzed, and changes to policies and procedures made throughout the year by either Visalia Transit or the contractor. The plan will be reviewed and approved annually by the City’s Transit Manager and City Manager no later than August 20th of each year starting in 2026. New safety performance targets will be created during the annual review process. The approved PTASP, including the safety performance targets, will be transmitted to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG) by September 1st of each year.

Fiscal Impact: N/A
Prior Council Action:

December 21, 2020: Approval of the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan Other: N/A
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to approve the draft Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan and authorize the City Manager to sign on behalf of Visalia Transit and to annually review and approve.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: Draft Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan Visalia City Council Page 2 of 2 Printed on 8/29/2025
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Visalia Transit
Public Transit Agency Safety Plan
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2025

1. Transit Agency Information
The Transit Manager is ultimately accountable for ensuring that SMS is implemented throughout Visalia Transit in accordance with this Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (ASP). Additionally, the Transit Manager is accountable for ensuring action is taken to address substandard performance in Visalia Transit’s SMS when required. The Transit Management Analyst has been designated as the Safety Officer by and reporting directly to the Transit Manager. The Transit Management Analyst has been empowered with responsibility for day-today implementation and operation of Visalia Transit’s SMS.

Transit Agency Name Visalia Transit – Operated by RATP Dev USA Transit Agency
Address
425 E. Oak Ave., Ste. 301
Visalia, CA 93291
Name and Title of
Accountable
Executive
Angelina Baker, Transit Manager
Name and Title of
Chief Safety Officer Caleb Bowman, Transit Management Analyst Mode(s) of Service
Covered by This Plan
Fixed Route Bus Service,
On-Demand Bus Service,
Commuter Bus Service
List All FTA Funding
Types (e.g., 5307, 5310,
5311)
CARES, 5307, 5311(f),
5310, LCTOP, LFT
Mode(s) of Service
Provided by the
Transit Agency
Visalia Transit provides Fixed Route Bus Service (Visalia Transit), On-Demand Service (Dial-A-Ride & Visalia Connect), and Commuter Bus Service (V-Line) which is operated by our contractor.

Does the agency
provide transit
services on behalf of
another transit agency
or entity?
Yes
X
No Description of
Arrangement(s)
Visalia Transit provide fixed route public
bus service for local cities and county
government in the region which is operated
by our contractor.

Name and Address of
Agency(ies) or
Entity(ies) for Which
Service Is Provided
City of Exeter
Attn: Jason Ridenour, City Manager
[email protected]
350 W. Firebaugh
Exeter, CA 93221
City of Farmersville
Attn: Daymon Qualls, City Manager
[email protected] v
909 W. Visalia Rd.

Farmersville, CA 93223
Tulare County Regional Transit Agency
Attn: Derek Winning, Executive Director
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[email protected]
200 E. Center Ave
Visalia, CA 93291
Service Area Small Urban
Census Tract
Number(s)
06107001003
06107001100
06107001400

2. Contractor Information
Contractor’s Name RATP Dev USA
Operating Location
Address
525 N. Cain St.

Visalia, CA 93292
General Manager Edward Van Heel
Assistant General
Manager/Operations
Manager
Jenny Gaitan
Safety & Training
Manager Feleicia “Danielle” Bratcher
Maintenance Manager Joseph Olaerts

3. Plan Development, Approval, and Updates
This Agency Safety Plan addresses all applicable requirements and standards as set forth in FTA’s Public Transportation Safety Program and the National Public Transportation Safety Plan.

Name of Entity That
Drafted This Plan Caleb Bowman, Transit Management Analyst, Visalia Transit Signature by the City’s
Accountable Executive
Signature of Accountable Executive Date of Signature
Angelina Baker, Transit Manager
Approval by the Board
of Directors or an
Equivalent Authority
City of Visalia, City Manager Date of Approval
Leslie Caviglia, City Manager
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City Council Agenda Item Number Meeting Date of Approval Public Transporation Agency Safety Plan, Relevant Documentation and Location
A copy of the approved Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan and relevant documents will be maintained on the City of Visalia’s Transit drive in the PTASP folder and maintained by the Transit Manager and Transit Management Analyst for City of Visalia - Transit.

Version Number and Updates
Record the complete history of successive versions of this plan.

Version
Number
Section/Pages
Affected Reason for Change Date Issued

1.0 New Document September 2025
Annual Review and Update of the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan Describe the process and timeline for conducting an annual review and update of the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan.

At Visalia Transit, review of safety practices is an ongoing process, not one limited to scheduled reviews. As policies/procedures and training techniques change throughout the year they are updated and communicated throughout the organization. All changes are reviewed and approved by Visalia’s and Contractor’s Accountable Executives.

Each fiscal year, Visalia Transit’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) is reviewed by management and revised based on the safety data collected and analyzed, and changes to policies and procedures made throughout the year by Visalia Transit or Contractor. The final annual revision will be reviewed and approved by the Safety Committee and then by Visalia Transit’s Accountable Executive (Transit Manager) by August 1st of each year. The revised PTASP will be forwarded to the City Manager for review, approval, and certification. The PTASP should be approved no later than August 20th of each year.

The Contractor’s Annual Review and Update of their PTASP is included in Attachment A, section 2.0.

4. Annual Safety Performance Targets
Safety Performance Targets
Specify performance targets based on the safety performance measures established under the National Public Transportation Safety Plan.
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The targets below are based on the previous 4 years of Visalia Transit safety performance data reported to NTD.

Safety Performance Target: Major Events
The FTA NTD Policy Manual specifies reporting thresholds for minor and major safety events. Additionally, major events are considered any safety or security event that meet the threshold as outlined in Attachment A, section 3.2. The vehicular collision rate will include collisions with all forms of motorized vehicles (cars, buses, motorcycles, etc.).

Fixed-Route Commuter Demand Response
FY24/25 Data
FY25/26
Targets FY24/25 Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
Major Events
(Total)
Major Events Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Collisions Events
(Total)
Collision Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Pedestrian
Collision Events
(Total)
Pedestrian
Collision Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Vehicular
Collision Events
(Total)
Vehicular
Collision Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Safety Performance Target: Fatalities
In accordance with the FTA NTD Policy Manual, Visalia Transit tracks the total number of overall fatalities and transit worker fatalities resulting from safety or security events, excluding those that occur because of illnesses, drug overdoses, or other natural causes (including individuals who are found deceased). Fatalities are tracked as a hard count with performance tracked monthly and cumulatively.

Fixed-Route Commuter Demand Response
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
Fatalities
(Total)
Fatality Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Transit Worker
Fatality
(Total)
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Transit Worker
Fatality Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Safety Performance Target: Injuries
In accordance with the NTD Policy Manual, an injury is defined as an employee, passenger, or third-party experiencing harm that required immediate medical attention away from the scene because of safety event.

The FTA tracks injury frequency rates (IFR) rates include employees, passengers, pedestrians, and thirdparty injuries and the FTA’s transit worker injury rate is specific to all transit employees.

Fixed-Route Commuter Demand Response
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
Injuries
(Total)
Injury Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Transit Worker
Injuries
(Total)
Transit Worker
Injury Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Safety Performance Target: Assaults on Transit Workers
The overall transportation industry is experiencing a growing trend in assaults on transit workers, especially operators. The NTD Policy Manual defines a transit worker assault as a circumstance in which an individual knowingly interferes with, disables, or incapacitates a transit worker while the transit worker is performing their duties.

Fixed-Route Commuter Demand Response
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
Assaults on
Transit Workers
(Total)
Rate of Assaults
on Transit
Workers
(per 100K VRM)
Safety Performance Target: System Reliability
In accordance with NTD Policy Manual, system reliability is measured based on the number of major mechanical failures experienced, which is defined as failure of some mechanical element of the revenue vehicle not caused by a collision, natural disaster, or vandalism, which prevent a vehicle from completing or starting a scheduled revenue trip because actual movement is limited or because of safety concerns.

Fixed-Route Commuter Demand Response
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
FY24/25
Data
FY25/26
Targets
System Reliability
(Total)
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System Reliability
Rate
(per 100K VRM)
Safety Performance Target Coordination
Every year after its formal adoption by the City Manager, the Transit Manager will share the PTASP, including safety performance targets with the State of California (Caltrans) and our Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG) no later than September 1 st
.

Department personnel will be readily available to coordinate with the State of California and TCAG in the selection of safety performance targets upon request.

5. Coordination with Metropolitan, Statewide, and Non-metropolitan Planning Processes
State Entity Name Date Targets
Transmitted
Targets
Transmitted to
the State
State Entity:

Caltrans Division of Rail and Mass Transportation
State Entity Contact which receives performance numbers:

Brian Travis, Senior Transportation Planner
Targets
Transmitted to
the Metropolitan
Planning
Organization(s)
Metropolitan Planning Organization Name Date Targets
Transmitted
MPO:

Tulare County Association of Governments
MPO Contact which receives performance numbers:

Giancarlo Bruno, Associate Regional Planner

6. Safety Management Policy
Safety Management Policy Statement
Include the written statement of safety management policy, incorporating safety objectives.

At Visalia Transit, safety is more than a policy statement we are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its employees, contractors, contractor’s employees, and passengers. Management believes that working safely promotes quality, productivity, and profitability. Prevention of collisions and personal injuries is of critical importance to everyone. Management is committed to providing a safe workplace, proper training, protective equipment, and a work environment conducive to safe practices and policies as well as ensuring availability of necessary resources and people to implement SMS effectively.

It is the policy of Visalia Transit to comply with all applicable occupational safety and health regulations and to establish guidelines and procedures for the maintenance of an on-going PTASP. This is accomplished 113
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through safety and health inspections, employee training, and accident investigation. Response to safety concerns will be given the highest priority at every level of the Visalia Transit structure.

The Contractor’s Safety Management Policy Statement is included in Attachment A, section 4.1.

Safety Management Policy Communication
Describe how the safety management policy is communicated throughout the agency’s organization.

Include dates where applicable.

Local Communication of Safety Concerns
The Contractor’s Safety and Training Manager (CSTM) is at the center of the safety communication process and is responsible for compiling safety reports to include the following:
• Accident and injury data
• Security incident data
• Near miss and hazard reporting
• Collision incident data
• Safety and security audit data and recommendations
• Safety Committee (SC) meeting minutes
The CSTM reports directly to the Contractor’s General Manager (CGM) and routinely meets formally with the CGM, one-on-one, and Visalia Transit’s Chief Safety Officer (CSO) to provide updates on safety issues, safety priorities, and hazard management. The CSTM also meets informally with the CGM and CSO to provide updates on safety issues on an as-needed basis.

Per our contract with the Contractor, the CSTM is responsible to inform the CSO of any accident, incident, or any other safety issues immediately. Reports and video are to be provided to CSO within 48 hours of the event.

The CSTM also participates in the SC meetings to discuss safety priorities, safety issues, and hazard management, and to communicate safety-related information across all departments.

The Contractor’s Safety Management Policy Communication is included in Attachment A, section 4.2.

Authorities, Accountabilities, and Responsibilities
Describe the authorities, accountabilities, and responsibilities of the following individuals for the development and management of the transit agency’s Safety Management System (SMS).

Accountable Executive
Visalia Transit:

Angelina Baker, Transit Manager
The Accountable Executives has the following authorities, accountabilities, and responsibilities under this plan:
• Controls and directs human and capital resources needed to develop and maintain the ASP and SMS.
• Designates an adequately trained Chief Safety Officers who are a direct report.
• Ensures that the SMS is effectively implemented.
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• Ensures action is taken to address substandard performance of the SMS.
• Assumes ultimate responsibility for carrying out the ASP and SMS.
• Maintains responsibility for carrying out the agency's Transit Asset Management Plan.

Chief Safety Officer or SMS
Executive
Visalia Transit:

Caleb Bowman, Transit Management Analyst
The Accountable Executive designates the Chief Safety Officers. The Chief Safety Officers have the following authorities, accountabilities, and responsibilities under this plan:
• Develops the ASP and SMS policies and procedures.
• Ensures and oversees implementation and operation of the SMS. • Manages the Employee Safety Reporting Program (ESRP). • Attends the Safety Committee Meeting
• Advises the Accountable Executives on SMS progress and status. • Identifies substandard performance in the SMS and develops action plans for approval by the Accountable Executive. • Ensures that policies are consistent with the safety objectives. • Provides Safety Risk Management (SRM) expertise and support for other personnel who conduct and oversee Safety Assurance activities.

Contractor’s Leadership and
Executive Management
Contractor:

Edward Van Heel, General Manager
Jenny Gaitan, Assistant General Manager/Operations Manager Feleicia “Danielle” Bratcher, Safety and Training Manager Joseph Olaerts, Maintenance Manager
The Contractor’s Leadership and Executive Management also have authorities and responsibilities for day-to-day SMS implementation and operation of the SMS under this plan.

Contractor’s Leadership and Executive Management personnel have the following authorities, accountabilities, and responsibilities:
• Participate as members of safety committees.
• Complete training on SMS and ASP elements.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the SMS in their departments. • Modify policies in their departments consistent with
implementation of the SMS, as necessary.
• Chairs the Safety Committee Meeting and (Safety & Training Manager only)
o Coordinates the activities of the committee;
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o Establishes and maintains the Safety Risk Register and Safety Event Log to monitor and analyze trends in
hazards, occurrences, incidents, and accidents; and
o Maintains and distributes minutes of committee meetings. • Provide subject matter expertise to support implementation of the SMS as requested by the Accountable Executives or the Chief Safety Officers, including SRM activities, investigation of safety events, development of safety risk mitigations, and monitoring of mitigation effectiveness.

The Contractor’s Necessary Authorities, Accountabilities, and Responsibilities is included in Attachment A, section 4.3.

Additional
Accountability
AE: Visalia Transit’s Accountable Executive
CSO: Visalia Transit’s Chief Safety Officer
CGM: Contractor’s General Manager
CAGM: Contractor’s Assistant General Manager/Operations Manager CSTM: Contractor’s Safety & Training Manager
CMM: Contractor’s Maintenance Manager
CHR: Contractor’s Human Resources
Safety Responsibility and Task Matrix
Responsibilities and Tasks AE CSO CGM CSTM CAGM CMM CHR Establish annual safety
objectives for submission to
the CGM and Visalia Transit
at the beginning of each
fiscal year
☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Submit a report on the safety
performance at the end of
each fiscal period to CGM
and Visalia Transit
☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Submit the following: period
operations and safety data;
accident and incident
reports; and site safety
review results
☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
The CGM or their designee
has the authority to direct
that work or conditions have
been determined to be
☒ ☒ ☒ ☒ ☒ ☒ ☒
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unsafe or pose a hazard to
customers, employees,
Contractor’s employees, the
general public, or endangers
the safe passage of buses
be suspended or restricted
until the unsafe condition or
hazard can be mitigated or
corrected
Management of system
safety, occupational health
and safety, accident and
incident investigation,
environmental protection and
monitoring the
implementation of the Safety
Management System (SMS)
Program Plan
☐ ☒ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Review of all safety aspects
of departmental procedures
including Contractor’s
policies/instructions;
Standard Operating
Procedures; HR policies;
safety and health policies
☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
SMS Review and
Modification ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Safety Committee Meetings ☐ ☒ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Daily Safety & Health
Walkthrough ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Safety related reports to
external agencies ☐ ☒ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Near miss and route hazard
report investigations ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Investigation of safety
related trends ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Coordination with United
States and State
Departments of Labor and
Occupational Safety and
☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒
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Health Administration
(OSHA)
Environmental Management
Oversight ☐ ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Hazard Management
Process ☐ ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Managing Safety Validation
of Change Process ☐ ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Safety Data Reporting ☐ ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Investigations ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Advise to update SOPs,
Rules, and Emergency Plans ☐ ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☒
Emergency Response ☐ ☐ ☒ ☒ ☒ ☒ ☐
Fire Protection ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Shop Safety Hazardous
Tools Inspections ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐
Review Vehicle Maintenance
and Failure Data ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐
Perform Vehicle
Maintenance
Inspections/Audits
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐
Training, Certification,
Review, and Audit ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Personal Protective
Equipment Review ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Hazardous Materials
Management ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Program ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐
Procurement ☐ ☒ ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
The Contractor’s Necessary Authorities, Accountabilities, and Responsibilities is included in Attachment A, section 4.3.
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Employee Safety Reporting Program
Describe the process and protections for employees to report safety conditions to senior management.

Describe employee behaviors that may result in disciplinary action (and therefore, are excluded from protection).

Visalia Transit Management has an open-door policy for all City, contractors’, and subcontractors’ management and employees can communicate safety concerns without the threat of retaliation; all personal information is kept confidential to the extent possible.

The Contractor’s Employee Voluntary Safety Reporting Program is included in Attachment A, section 4.4.

7. Safety Risk Management
Safety Risk Management Process
Describe the Safety Risk Management process, including:
• Safety Hazard Identification: The methods or processes to identify hazards and consequences of the hazards
• Safety Risk Assessment: The methods or processes to assess the safety risks associated with identified safety hazards
• Safety Risk Mitigation: The methods or processes to identify mitigations or strategies necessary as a result of safety risk assessment
Safety management is at the core of everything done at Visalia Transit. All employees and contractors are responsible for performing their jobs in a safe manner, which includes identifying safety risks and participating in developing and implementing effective mitigation techniques.

Safety Rist Identification
Methods or processes to identify hazards and potential consequences of the hazards.

The Contractor’s Safety Risk Identification is included in Attachment A, section 5.1.

Safety Rist Assessment
Methods or processes to assess the safety risk associated with identified hazards.

The Contractor’s Safety Risk Assessment is included in Attachment A, section 5.2.

Safety Rist Assessment
Methods or processes to assess the safety risk associated with identified hazards.

The Contractor’s Safety Risk Mitigation is included in Attachment A, section 5.3. 119
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8. Safety Assurance
Safety Performance Monitoring and Measurement
Describe activities to monitor operations to identify any safety risk mitigations that may be ineffective, inappropriate, or were not implemented as intended.

Visalia Transit requires the Contractor to have a resident Management Team who reports to the Chief Safety Officer. This team consists of a General Manager and a Safety Manager, who oversee the safety of the operation.

Additionally, each Contractor shall employ a Street Supervisors, Dispatchers, and Instructors; all of whom are responsible for oversight of the daily operations and training. All safety risks identified are reported to the General Manager and Safety Manager who will relay necessary information back to Visalia Transit. Any risks that can be addressed immediately are corrected but still reported. Visalia Transit’s Contractor also establishes a Safety Committee (SC) that includes AE, CSO, or their designee, which uses the following methodologies to ensure a proactive approach to safety. • Routine hazard management
• Accident and incident investigation
• Safety data collection and analysis
• Routine internal safety audits
• Facility, equipment, systems and vehicle inspections
• Routine proficiency checks for all vehicle operators and maintenance employees • Compliance evaluations including onsite inspections
• Regularly communicating safety and hazard data to all employees The Contractor’s Safety Assurance is included in Attachment A, section 6.1.

Safety and Security Event Reporting and Investigation
Describe activities to conduct investigations of safety events to identify causal factors.

Visalia Transit has a “zero” tolerance for preventable injuries and collisions. Elimination of preventable injuries and collisions is our number one goal.

Any injury, collision or incident that occurs is investigated to determine preventability or non-preventability.

Per our contract, The CSTM shall report any injury, collision or incident that occurs immediately to the AE and CSO. Reports and video are to be provided to CSO within 48-hours of the event. Investigations include all instances in which:
• a vehicle was damaged
• a vehicle leaves the traveled roadway
• property/structure was damaged
• a passenger is injured
• an employee is injured or
• an assault occurs aboard a bus or at a stop location
The Contractor’s Safety and Security Event Reporting and Investigation is included in Attachment A, section 6.2.
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Describe activities to monitor information reported through internal safety reporting programs.

The Contractor’s Safety Manager (CSM) and/or Contractor’s General Manager (CGM) routinely review all safety and hazard data, which includes searching for repetitive events that might have safety implications.

When accident/incident reports and statistics indicate repetitive accidents/incidents, the CSM and CGM investigate to determine the root cause and report findings to CSO.

The Contractor’s Safety and Security Event Reporting and Investigation is included in Attachment A, section 6.2.

Management of Change
Describe the process for identifying and assessing changes that may introduce new hazards or impact safety performance.

The Contractor’s Management of Change is included in Attachment A, section 6.3.

Continuous Improvement
Describe the process for assessing safety performance. Describe the process for developing and carrying out plans to address identified safety deficiencies.

The Contractor’s Continuous Improvement is included in Attachment A, section 6.4.

9. Safety Promotion
Competencies and Training
Describe the safety training program for all agency employees and contractors directly responsible for safety.

Visalia Transit requires the Contractor to implement a safety training program for all new hires in addition to regular monthly safety training for all employees. Visalia Transit Management attends at least two (2) monthly safety trainings per year.

The Contractor’s Safety Competencies and Training is included in Attachment A, section 7.2.

Safety Communication
Describe processes and activities to communicate safety and safety performance information throughout the organization.

The Contractor’s Safety Communication is included in Attachment A, section 7.3.

10. Additional Information
Supporting Documentation
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Include or reference documentation used to implement and carry out the Safety Plan that are not included elsewhere in this Plan.

1. 49 CFR Part 670 Public Transportation Safety Program

2. 49 CFR Part 673 Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan

3. National Public Transportation Safety Plan (April 2024)

11. Definitions of Special Terms Used in the Safety Plan Visalia Transit incorporates all of FTA’s definitions that are in 49 CFR § 673.5 of the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan regulation.

Term Definition
Accident
An Event that involves any of the following: A loss of life; a report of a serious injury to a person; a collision of public transportation vehicles; a runaway train; an evacuation for life safety reasons; or any derailment of a rail transit vehicle, at any location, at any time, whatever the cause.

Accountable
Executive
A single, identifiable person who has ultimate responsibility for carrying out the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan of a public transportation agency; responsibility for carrying out the agency's Transit Asset Management Plan; and control or direction over the human and capital resources needed to develop and maintain both the agency's Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan, in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 5329(d), and the agency's Transit Asset Management Plan, in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 5326.

Chief Safety Officer
The CSO
Has the authority and responsibility for day-to-day implementation and operation of the agency’s SMS. Recipients and subrecipients to which the rule applies must have approved plans by December 31, 2020.

Equivalent Authority
An entity that carries out duties similar to that of a Board of Directors for a recipient or subrecipient of FTA funds under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 53, including sufficient authority to review and approve a recipient or subrecipient's Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan.

Event Any Accident, Incident, or Occurrence.

Hazard
Any real or potential condition that can cause injury, illness, or death; damage to or loss of the facilities, equipment, rolling stock, or infrastructure of a public transportation system; or damage to the environment.

Incident
An event that involves any of the following: a personal injury that is not a serious injury; one or more injuries requiring medical transport; or damage to facilities, equipment, rolling stock, or infrastructure that disrupts the operations of a transit agency.

Injury Any harm to persons as a result of an event that requires immediate medical attention away from the scene.

Investigation The process of determining the causal and contributing factors of an accident, incident, or hazard, for the purpose of preventing recurrence and mitigating risk. 122
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National Public
Transportation Safety
Plan
The plan to improve the safety of all public transportation systems that receive Federal financial assistance under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 53.

Occurrence An Event without any personal injury in which any damage to facilities, equipment, rolling stock, or infrastructure does not disrupt the operations of a transit agency.

Operator A public transportation system means a provider of public transportation as defined under 49 U.S.C. 5302.

Performance Measure An expression based on a quantifiable indicator of performance or condition that is used to establish targets and to assess progress toward meeting the established targets.

Performance Target A quantifiable level of performance or condition, expressed as a value for the measure, to be achieved within a time period required by the FTA.

Public Transportation
Agency Safety Plan
(PTASP or Agency
Safety Plan)
The documented comprehensive Agency Safety Plan for a transit agency that is required by 49 U.S.C. 5329 and Part 673.

Risk The composite of predicted severity and likelihood of the potential effect of a hazard.

Risk Mitigation A method or methods to eliminate or reduce the effects of hazards.

Safety Freedom from unintentional harm.

Safety Assurance
The processes within a transit agency's Safety Management System that function to ensure the implementation and effectiveness of safety risk mitigation, and to ensure that the transit agency meets or exceeds its safety objectives through the collection, analysis, and assessment of information.

Safety Event An unexpected outcome resulting in injury or death; damage to or loss of the facilities, equipment, rolling stock, or infrastructure of a public transportation system; or damage to the environment.

SMS Executive
Chief Safety Officer or equivalent that is an adequately trained individual who has responsibility for safety and reports directly to a transit agency's chief executive officer, general manager, president, or equivalent officer.

Safety Management
Policy
A transit agency's documented commitment to safety, which defines the transit agency's safety objectives and the accountabilities and responsibilities of its employees in regard to safety.

Safety Management
System
The formal, top-down, organization-wide approach to managing safety risk and assuring the effectiveness of a transit agency's safety risk mitigation. SMS includes systematic procedures, practices, and policies for managing risks and hazards.

Safety Performance
Target A performance target related to safety management activities.

Safety Promotion A combination of training and communication of safety information to support SMS as applied to the transit agency's public transportation system.
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Safety Risk The composite of predicted likelihood and severity of a potential consequence of a hazard.

Safety Risk
Assessment
The formal activity whereby a transit agency determines Safety Risk Management priorities by establishing the significance or value of its safety risks.

Safety Risk
Management
A process within a transit agency's Agency Safety Plan for identifying hazards and analyzing, assessing, and mitigating safety risk.

Safety Risk Mitigation A method(s) to eliminate or reduce the likelihood and severity of a potential consequence of a safety risk.

Security Freedom from intentional harm.

Transit Agency An operator of a public transportation system.

Transit Asset
Management Plan
The strategic and systematic practice of procuring, operating, inspecting, maintaining, rehabilitating, and replacing transit capital assets to manage their performance, risks, and costs over their life cycles, for the purpose of providing safe, cost effective, and reliable public transportation, as required by 49 U.S.C. 5326 and 49 CFR Part 625.

Transit Worker Any employee, contractor, or volunteer working on behalf of the public transit agency.

12. List of Acronyms Used in the Safety Plan
Acronym Word or Phrase
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act
ARC Accident Review Committee
ASP Agency Safety Plan
BTW Behind-the-Wheel
CBA Collective Bargaining Agreement
CDL Commercial Driver’s License
CEO Chief Executive Officer
CPO Chief People Officer
DOT Department of Transportation
DUI Driving Under the Influence
DWI Driving While Intoxicated
ESC Executive Safety Committee
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EXCO Executive Council
F.O.R.M. First Occupational Rehabilitation Management
FTA Federal Transit Administration
GM General Manager
HR Human Resources
KPI Key Performance Indicator
LGM General Manager
LOTO Lock-Out/Tag-Out
LSM Location Safety Manager
MIL-STD Military Standard
MNT Maintenance
OPS Operations
OSHA Occupational Safety & Health Administration
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
PRM Performance Review Management
PTASP Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan
SM Safety Manager
SMS Safety Management System
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
SRC Safety Resource Center
SST Safety Solutions Team
SVP Senior Vice President
TAPTCO Transit and Paratransit Company
UK United Kingdom
VP Vice President
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Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0380 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 7.

Agenda Item Wording:

Approval of Agricultural Conservation Easement Form - A request by Great Valley Land Trust to have their agricultural conservation easement form and content approved as required per the City's adopted Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

Prepared by:

Paul Bernal, Planning and Community Preservation Director, [email protected], (559) 713- 4025
Department Recommendation:

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the form and content of the Great Valley Land Trust (GVLT) agricultural conservation easement in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 3 “Methods of Preservation” of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

Summary:

Great Valley Land Trust has submitted an agricultural conservation easement document. A copy of the “Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement” is attached to this report as Attachment 1. The conservation easement document is being prepared to encumber approximately 160 acres of Prime Farmland to mitigate the conversion of prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance for the following residential development approved as follows:

1. Approximately 32.61 acres of prime farmland in association with Cameron Ranch Estates Tentative Subdivision Map No. 5598 (see Attachment 1).

The remaining 127.39 acres will be established as an “agricultural conservation easement mitigation bank” that will allow future projects to secure agricultural conservation easements for their projects on property that is already established for such purposes. Please note staff will track total acreages assigned to future projects to ensure that the “mitigation bank” retains the necessary easement acreage to satisfy project mitigation obligations of local land use authorities for those future projects.

Background Discussion:

As required pursuant to Article 3, Section 18.040.080.D “Approval of the Easement(s)” of the Agricultural Preservation Ordinance (APO), the City Council shall approve the form and content of all agricultural conservation easements to ensure consistency with this chapter. Subsequent easement form reviews, which were initially approved by the City Council, may permit the Council to authorize a designee to review and confirm future easements as addressed in Section 18.04.080.D of the APO.

Great Valley Land Trust is seeking approval by the City Council that their easement form and content complies with the requirements set forth in Article 3 Section 18.04.080 of the APO. Staff has reviewed the easement document submitted by GVLT and concludes that the easement document addresses the provisions as follows:

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conveyance of, an area of land meeting its preserved land obligation to a qualified entity for execution of an agricultural conservation easement thereon.

Response: The easement document clearly demonstrates that the applicant is conveying prime farmland to a certified entity (Great Valley Trust) based on their land obligation requirement to mitigate farmland being developed for the residential project as noted above.

2. Section 18.04.080.B.1 through 6 Eligibility of Land for Easement. The preserved land shall meet all of the following requirements to be eligible for placement in an agricultural conservation easement.

1. The preserved land shall be located in the southern San Joaquin Valley, with preference afforded to preserved land located within 10 miles of the City limits. The preserved land must be located outside any city’s limits and sphere of influence.

Response: The 160-acre site is located on the southwest corner of Avenue 264 and Road 28 within County of Tulare and approximately 9 miles southwest of Visalia (APN: 147-020-004) (see Attachment 3).

2. The preserved land shall be designated as prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance on the most recent published Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) map.

Response: The property is designated as “prime farmland” on the most recently published FMMP map (<https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/DLRP/CIFF/)>).

3. The preserved land shall be a minimum of 20 contiguous acres in size.

Response: The preserved land is 160 acres.

4. The preserved land shall be zoned and planned for agricultural uses consistent with the purposes of an agricultural conservation easement.

Response: The preserved land is zoned AE-40 per the Tulare County Public Parcel Zoning Lookup Map (https://tularecounty.ca.gov/rma/planning-building/zoning-entitlements/).

5. The preserved land shall have at least one verified source of water.

Response: The preserved land is located within the boundaries of the Tulare Irrigation District and is under contract to receive water from this source which is delivered through a district canal via a well/pumping stating that draws water from the canal (see Attachment 2).

6. The preserved land shall not be encumbered by any use or structure that would be incompatible with the purpose of the agricultural conservation easement. Such uses shall be deducted from the total acreage being preserved.

Response: The preserved land is not encumbered by any use or structure that would be incompatible with the purpose of the agricultural conservation easement. A review of aerial map imagery (see attached map) and a baseline report does identify a well/pumping station located in the southeast area and a reservoir pond located in the southwest portion of the site.

No other additional structure(s) or use(s) are located on the land to be conserved that would be incompatible with the purpose of an agricultural easement.

3. Section 18.04.080.C.1 through 11 Terms of Easement. The agricultural conservation easement shall be consistent with the purpose and intent of this chapter and shall include, at a minimum, the following terms.

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1. The agricultural conservation easement prohibits all residential, commercial, or industrial development and any other land uses or activities that substantially impair or diminish the agricultural productive capacity of the preserved land or that are otherwise inconsistent with the conservation purposes of this chapter.

Response: GVLTs easement document addresses these items under Section 3 “Prohibited Uses, Section 5 Construction or Placement of Buildings and Other Improvements, Section 6 No Subdivision and Section 7 Extinguishment of Development Rights (see Attachment 1).

2. The agricultural conservation easement prohibits the landowner from entering into any additional easement, servitude, or other encumbrance that could prevent or impair the potential agricultural use of the preserved land.

Response: GVLTs easement document addresses this item under Section 27 Granting Subsequent Easements, Interests in Land, or Use Restrictions (see Attachment 1).

3. The agricultural conservation easement limits the construction of structures to those designed to facilitate agricultural use of the property, except that this division shall not prohibit replacement of an existing home that was present at the time the easement was established so long as the replacement of the home does not prevent the agricultural use of the property.

Secondary dwelling units or farmworker housing may also be permitted, so long as the primary use of the property is agricultural.

Response: GVLTs easement document addresses this item under Section 5 Construction or Placement of Buildings and Other Improvements.

4. The preserved land to be subject to the agricultural conservation easement will be either obtained from a willing seller or voluntarily conveyed by the applicant.

Response: Yes, the property owner is encumbering 160-acres with agricultural easements to mitigate prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance being developed for a residential subdivision project as follows:
a. Approximately 32.61 acres of prime farmland in association with Cameron Ranch Estates Tentative Subdivision Map No. 5598 (see Attachment 1). b. Approximately 127.39 acres which GVLT recognizes as conservation easement that will serve as the basis for additional mitigation credits, which may be used to satisfy project mitigation obligations of local land use authorities for future projects.

5. Any existing financial liens or financial encumbrances on the preserved land shall be subordinated to the agricultural conservation easement.

Response: Great Valley Land Trust’s easement document addresses this item under Section 26 The Landowner’s Title Warranty; No Prior Conservation Easements.

6. The agricultural conservation easement shall be approved by the qualified entity that will hold the easement and executed by all parties with an interest in the preserved land.

Response: GVLT prepared the Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement that will be executed by all parties with an interest in the preserved land. The City Council on March 4, 2024, certified GVLT as an entity for the purpose of holding agricultural conservation easements in accordance with the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

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description of the preserved land.

Response: The Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement has been prepared in a recordable form and contains an accurate legal description and map of the preserved land (see Attachment 1).

8. The agricultural conservation easement names the qualified entity as an intended beneficiary and authorizes it to enforce all terms of the easement.

Response: GVLT, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation, having an address at 525 West Main Street, Suite 208, Visalia, CA 93291, is named as the “Grantee”, for the purpose of forever conserving the agricultural productive capacity and open space character of the subject property.

9. The agricultural conservation easement recites that it is intended to satisfy the preserved land obligation imposed by this chapter and that it is subject to the requirements set forth in this chapter.

Response: GVLTs easement document addresses this requirement under Recitals Section C (see Attachments 1).

10. The agricultural conservation easement provides that if the qualified entity holding the easement ceases to exist, ownership of the easement shall pass to another qualified entity.

Response: Great Valley Land Trust’s easement document addresses this requirement under Section 18 Transfer of Easement (see Attachment 1).

11. The agricultural conservation easement has been approved as to form by the City of Visalia, in accordance with section 18.04.080(D).

Response: Staff recommends the City Council approve GVLTs Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement document. The easement document form and content demonstrate compliance with the City’s adopted APO. In addition, GVLT has been confirmed by the City Council as a qualified entity for the purposes of holding agricultural conservation easements in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 4 of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

Fiscal Impact: None.

Prior Council Action:
· On August 4, 2025, the City Councial approved the form and content of Sequoia Riverlands Trust agricultural conservation easement in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 3 “Methods of Preservation” of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

Unlike prior agricultural conservation easements that were created for a specific development/project subject to the City’s Agricultural Preservation Ordinance (APO), this agricultural conservation easement was created as an “agricultural conservation easement mitigation bank” that will allow future projects to secure agricultural conservation easements for their projects on property that is already established for such purposes. The conservation easement document encumbered 468 acres of Farmland of Statewide Importance. · On November 18, 2024, the City Councial approved the form and content of Great Valley Land Trust agricultural conservation easement in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 3 “Methods of Preservation” of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

Visalia City Council Page 4 of 6 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0380 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 7.

The conservation easement for the following:
o Approximately 24.66 acres of prime farmland in association with DH Hortons Shepherd Ranch II (formerly Iron Ridge) Tentative Subdivision Map No. 5589 (Attachment 1). o Approximately 38.42 acres of prime farmland in association with Wathen Castanos Homes Belissa Tentative Subdivision Map No. 5587 (Attachment 2). o Approximately 43.11 acres of prime farmland in association with San Joaquins Valley Homes approved “Elliot Tentative Subdivision Map No. 5597”, and recently submitted Blankship Tentative Subdivision (applications are currently being reviewed for completeness, still pending) (Attachment 3).
· In addition, approximately 14.86 acres which GVLT recognizes as conservation easement will serve as the basis for additional mitigation credits, which may be used to satisfy project mitigation obligations of local land use authorities for future projects. · On September 16, 2024, the City Council approved the form and content of Great Valley Land Trust agricultural conservation easement in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 3 “Methods of Preservation” of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

The conservation easement document is being prepared to mitigate the conversion of approximately 34 acres of prime farmland in association with DH Hortons “Pearl Woods Subdivision Map No. 5591”.
· On March 4, 2024, the City Council confirmed Great Valley Land Trust as a qualified entity for the purposes of holding agricultural conservation easements in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 4 of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance. · On May 15, 2023, the City Council held a second reading and adopted Ordinance No. 2023- 02 (Agricultural Preservation Ordinance).
· On May 1, 2023, the City Council held a public hearing to introduce Ordinance No. 2023-02.

The City Council voted 4-0, Vice Mayor Taylor recused, to introduce and adopted Ordinance No. 2023-02 (Agricultural Preservation Ordinance).
· On March 6, 2023, the City Council received a presentation and update on the release of the draft APO. During the Work Session presentation, the consultant and staff provided an overview of the ordinance and received input from the City Council and community on the content of the draft ordinance.
· On December 5, 2022, the City Council received a presentation and provided direction regarding a series of options for the City Council’s consideration ahead of a future adoption of an APO to implement General Plan Land Use Policy LU-P-34. · On August 18, 2022, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2022-50 which rescinded the adoption of Resolution No. 2021-44, which approved General Plan Amendment No. 2021-01, a request by the City of Visalia to amend language to General Plan Land Use Policy LU-P-34 by removing the requirement to establish an Agricultural Mitigation Program (AMP) for properties converting prime farmland and farmland of statewide importance within Growth Tiers II and III. The adoption of the resolution to rescind the adoption of Resolution No. 2021- 44 was based on the ruling of the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Tulare, which invalidated the City of Visalia’s approval to General Plan Amendment (GPA) No. 2021- 01 and the related certification of an addendum to a previously certified environmental impact Visalia City Council Page 5 of 6 Printed on 8/29/2025
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File #: 25-0380 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 7.
report (EIR).

Other: N/A.

Alternatives:

The City Council can elect to not approve the form and content of Great Valley Land Trust agricultural conservation easements.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to approve the form and content of Great Valley Land Trust agricultural conservation easement in accordance with the provisions as defined in Article 3 “Methods of Preservation” of the City of Visalia Agricultural Preservation Ordinance.

Environmental Assessment Status:

The requested action is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) since the activity in question is not a “project” as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15378, it does not have a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.

CEQA Review:

The requested action is not a “project” under CEQA.

Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments:

Attachment 1 - Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement prepared by GVLS Attachment 2 - Tulare Irrigation District Water Source Statement Attachment 3 - Aerial Map of Cameron Ranch Estates Easement Area Attachment 4 - Aerial Location of Existing Infrastructure Visalia City Council Page 6 of 6 Printed on 8/29/2025
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Recording requested by and when
recorded please return to:

Great Valley Land Trust
525 W. Main St. Ste. 8
Visalia, CA 93291
(Space above this line reserved for Recorder’s use)

DEED OF AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION EASEMENT
This Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement is granted on this _____ of __________ 2025, by Bernard and Rebecca Te Velde, Trustees of The 2000 Te Velde Family Living Trust dated October 11th, 2000, having an address at 2911 Hanford Armona Rd., Hanford, CA 93230 (“Landowner”), to GREAT VALLEY LAND TRUST, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation, having an address at 525 W. Main St. Ste. 208, Visalia, CA 93291 (“Grantee”), for the purpose of forever conserving the agricultural productive capacity and open space character of the subject property.

RECITALS
A. The Landowner is the sole owner in fee simple of the conserved farmland property (“Property”) legally described in Exhibit A (“Legal Description”) and generally depicted in Exhibit B (“Map”), attached to and made a part of this Agricultural Conservation Easement (“Easement”). The Property consists of approximately 160 acres of land and is located in Tulare County, California, being a portion of assessor’s parcel number(s) 147- 020-004-000. The Property is open farmland, whose soils have been classified as prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, and by the California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, because this land has the soil quality, growing season, and water supply needed for sustained agricultural production.

Tulare County Public Parcel Zoning Lookup Map currently is zoned AE-40 B. The agricultural and other characteristics of the Property, its current use and state of improvement, are documented and described in a Baseline Documentation Report (“Baseline Report”), prepared by the Grantee with the cooperation of the Landowner and incorporated herein by this reference. The Landowner and the Grantee warrant that the Baseline Report is complete and accurate as of the date of this Easement. Both the Landowner and the Grantee shall retain duplicate original copies of the Baseline Report. 180
The Baseline Report may be used to establish whether a change in the use or condition of the Property has occurred, but its existence shall not preclude the use of other evidence to establish the condition of the Property as of the date of this Easement.

C. Artemis Partners, LLC (“Developer”), a Delaware limited liability company, pursuant to Visalia Municipal Code Title 18, Chapter 18.04, Agricultural Land Preservation Program (“APO”) seeks to protect farmland in the Southern San Joaquin Valley by causing the grant of a perpetual conservation easement to mitigate for the conversion of approximately 160 acres of “prime farmland” or “farmland of statewide importance.” Thirty-three (33) acres serves as mitigation for 33 acres of land annexed in connection with the “Cameron Ranch Estates” in Visalia. The remaining 127 remaining acres of land will serve to mitigate for future annexation(s) in Visalia, or similar programs in the Southern San Joaquin Valley under which the Conservation Easement will serve as the basis for issuance of mitigation credits. The City’s acceptance, attached hereto, acknowledges that the terms of this Easement satisfy the requirements of the APO.

D. The Landowner grants this Easement for valuable consideration to the Grantee for the purpose of assuring that, under the Grantee’s perpetual stewardship, the agricultural productive capacity and open space character of the Property will be conserved and maintained forever, and that uses of the land that are inconsistent with these conservation purposes will be prevented or corrected. The parties agree, however, that the current agricultural use of, and improvements to, the Property, as represented in the Baseline Report completed at the time of this Easement’s recordation, are consistent with the conservation purposes of this Easement.

E. The conservation purposes of this Easement are recognized by, and the grant of this Easement will serve, the following clearly delineated governmental conservation and environmental policies:

1. The Farmland Protection Policy Act, P.L. 97-98, 7 U.S.C. section 4201 et seq., whose purpose is “to minimize the extent to which Federal programs and policies contribute to the unnecessary and irreversible conversion of farmland to nonagricultural uses, and to assure that Federal programs are administered in a manner that, to the extent practicable, will be compatible with State, unit of local government, and private programs and policies to protect farmland;”

2. The California Environmental Quality Act (PRC §§21000 et seq.) which requires that significant impacts to the environment resulting from a project be mitigated to the extent feasible;

3. California Civil Code at Part 2, Chapter 4, (commencing with section 815), which defines and authorizes perpetual conservation easements;

4. California Government Code Section 65966 (a), which states that “any conservation easement created as a component of satisfying a local or state mitigation requirement shall be perpetual in duration”;
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5. California Constitution Article XIII, section 8, California Revenue and Taxation Code sections 421.5 and 422.5, and California Civil Code section 815.1, under which this Agricultural Conservation Easement is an enforceable restriction, requiring that the Property’s tax valuation be consistent with restriction of its use for purposes of food and fiber production and conservation of natural resources;

6. Section 10200 et seq. of the California Public Resources Code, which creates the California Farmland Conservancy Program within the Department;

7. Section 51220 of the California Government Code, which declares a public interest in the preservation of agricultural lands, by providing that “agricultural lands have a definitive public value as open space" and "that the discouragement of premature and unnecessary conversion of agricultural land to urban uses is a matter of public interest”;

8. California Food and Agriculture Code Section 821 states that one of the major principles of the State's agricultural policy is "to sustain the long-term productivity of the State's farms by conserving and protecting the soil, water, and air, which are agriculture's basic resources”.

F. The Grantee is a California nonprofit organization within the meaning of California Public Resources Code section 10221 and California Civil Code section 815.3 and is a tax exempt and “qualified conservation organization” within the meaning of Sections 501(c)(3) and 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) as defined by the United States Internal Revenue Code. Grantee, as certified by a resolution of Grantee's Board of Trustees, accepts the responsibility of enforcing the terms of this Easement and upholding its conservation purposes forever. 182

GRANT OF AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION EASEMENT
Now, therefore, for the reasons given, and in consideration of their mutual promises and covenants, terms, conditions and restrictions contained herein, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are hereby acknowledged, the Landowner voluntarily grants and conveys to the Grantee, and the Grantee voluntarily accepts, a perpetual conservation easement, as defined by Sections 815.1 and 815.2 of the California Civil Code and Section 10211 of the California Public Resources Code, and of the nature and character described in this Easement for the purpose described below, and agree as follows:

1. Conservation Purpose.

The conservation purpose (“Purpose”) of this Easement is to enable the Property to remain in productive agricultural use in perpetuity by preventing and correcting uses of the Property prohibited by the provisions of this Easement. To the extent that the preservation of the open space character of the Property is consistent with such use, it is within the Purpose of this Easement to protect those values.

2. Right to Use Property for Agricultural Purposes.

The Landowner retains the right to use the Property for agricultural purposes, or to permit others to use the Property for agricultural purposes, in accordance with applicable law and this Easement.

3. Prohibited Uses.

The Landowner shall not perform, nor knowingly allow others to perform, any act on or affecting the Property that is inconsistent with this Easement. Any use or activity that would diminish or impair the agricultural productive capacity of the Property and open space character protected by this Easement, or that would cause significant soil degradation or erosion, restrict agricultural husbandry practices, or that is otherwise inconsistent with the Conservation Purpose is prohibited (“Prohibited Use”). “Husbandry practices” means agricultural activities, such as those specified in Section 3482.5(e) of the California Civil Code, conducted or maintained for commercial purposes in a manner consistent with proper and accepted customs and standards, as established and followed by similar agricultural operations in the same locality.

This Easement authorizes the Grantee to enforce these covenants in the manner described herein. However, unless otherwise specified, nothing in this Easement shall require the Landowner to take any action to restore the condition of the Property after any Act of God or other similar event over which the Landowner had no control. The Landowner understands that nothing in this Easement relieves it of any obligation or restriction on the use of the Property imposed by law.
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4. Permission of the Grantee.

Where the Landowner is expressly required to obtain the Grantee’s permission for a proposed use hereunder, said permission (a) shall not be unreasonably delayed or withheld by the Grantee, (b) shall be sought and given in writing, with copies of all documents to be provided to the City, and (c) shall in all cases be obtained by the Landowner prior to the Landowner's undertaking of the proposed use. The Grantee shall grant permission to the Landowner only where the Grantee, acting in the Grantee's sole reasonable discretion and in good faith, determines that the proposed use is not a “Prohibited Use” as defined in Section 3.

5. Construction or Placement of Buildings and Other Improvements.

The Landowner may undertake construction, erection, installation, or placement of buildings, structures, or other improvements on the Property only as provided in subsections (a) through (e) below. All other construction, erection, installation, or placement of buildings, structures, or other improvements on the Property is prohibited.

Before undertaking any construction, erection, installation or placement that requires permission, the Landowner shall notify the Grantee and obtain prior written permission from the Grantee.

For purposes of this section, the term “improvements” shall not refer to, and specifically excludes, crops, plants, trees, vines, or other living improvements planted for agricultural purposes, nor shall it refer to irrigation improvements necessary or desirable to irrigate the Property for agricultural purposes, all of which may be made without permission of the Grantee.
(a) Fences – Existing fences may be repaired and replaced without permission of the Grantee. New fences may be built anywhere on the Property for purposes of reasonable and customary agricultural management, and for security of farm produce, livestock, equipment, and improvements on the Property, without permission of the Grantee. (b) Utilities and Septic Systems – Wires, lines, pipes, cables or other facilities providing electrical, gas, water, sewer, communications, energy generation, or other utility services solely to serve the improvements permitted herein or to transmit power generated on the Property may be installed, maintained, repaired, removed, relocated and replaced.
(c) Power generation and transmission facilities primarily for agricultural and other permitted uses on the Property may be constructed only with permission of the Grantee pursuant to Paragraph 4, and must be located in an area not to exceed 5 acres. Power generated in excess of requirements on the Property may be sold to appropriate public utilities. Notwithstanding the foregoing, commercial power generation, collection or transmission facilities, including wind or solar farms and the conveyance of any rightsof-way over, under or on the Property for any such purpose, are prohibited. 184

6. No Subdivision.

The division, subdivision, defacto subdivision, or partition of the Property, including transfer of development rights, whether by physical, legal, or any other process, is prohibited.

The Landowner and Grantee acknowledge and understand that the Property consists of one legal parcel(s) or portions thereof, and that no additional, separate legal parcels currently exist within the Property that may be recognized by a certificate of compliance or conditional certificate of compliance pursuant to California Government Code section 66499.35 based on previous patent or deed conveyances, subdivisions, or surveys. The Landowner will not apply for or otherwise seek recognition of additional legal parcels within the Property based on certificates of compliance or any other authority. The Landowner shall continue to maintain the legal parcels comprising the Property, and all interests therein, under common ownership, as though a single legal parcel.

Lot line adjustment may be permitted only with the written approval of the Grantee pursuant to Section 4, in conjunction with the approval of the local jurisdiction, and for purposes of maintaining, enhancing or expanding agricultural practices or productivity on the Property, provided that the boundaries of this Easement may not be altered by such Lot Line Adjustment.

7. Extinguishment of Development Rights.

The Landowner hereby grants to the Grantee all development rights except as specifically reserved in this Easement, that were previously, are now or hereafter allocated to, implied, reserved, appurtenant to, or inherent in the Property, and the parties agree that such rights are released, terminated, and extinguished, and may not be used on or transferred by either party to any portion of the Property as it now or later may be bounded or described, or to any other property adjacent or otherwise, or used for the purpose of calculating permissible lot yield of the Property or any other property. This Easement shall not create any development rights.

8. General Prohibition on Surface Mining.

Except as specifically authorized herein, the mining, removal or extraction on or from the area subject to this Easement of soil, sand, gravel, aggregate, rock, oil, natural gas, fuel, or any other mineral substance, through a surface mining, removal or extraction method or from above a depth of 150 feet below the surface of the Property is prohibited. This prohibition includes the installation of roads or pipelines for transportation of the previously stated resources.

If a third party owns or leases the oil, natural gas, or any other mineral rights associated with the Property at the time this Easement is executed, and their interests have not been subordinated to this Easement, the Landowner must require, to the greatest extent possible, that any oil, natural gas, and mineral exploration and extraction conducted by such third 185
party is conducted in accordance with this Paragraph 8. Any mineral leases or other conveyances of minerals entered into or renewed after the date of this Easement are subordinate to the terms of this Easement and must incorporate by reference the term of this Easement.

This section is not intended to interfere with Landowners’ right to remove cobble and hardpan from farm areas in order to prepare the land for agricultural purposes.

9. Paving and Road Construction.

Other than existing roads as identified in the Baseline Report, no portion of the Property presently unpaved shall be paved or otherwise covered with concrete, asphalt, or any other impervious paving material, unless such measures are required by air quality laws or regulations applicable to the Property. Except as otherwise permitted herein, no road for access or other purposes shall be constructed without the permission of the Grantee pursuant to Section 4. Notwithstanding the foregoing, construction of unpaved farm roads, as necessary or desirable by agricultural operations, is permitted without permission from the Grantee. The Landowner shall notify the Grantee of any significant relocation or net addition of unpaved farm roads.

10. Trash and Storage.

The dumping or accumulation on the Property of any kind of trash, refuse, vehicle bodies or parts, or “Hazardous Materials,” as defined in Section 25 is prohibited. Farm-related trash and refuse produced on the Property may be temporarily stored on the Property subject to all applicable laws. The storage of agricultural products and byproducts produced on the Property and materials reasonably required for agricultural production on the Property, including Hazardous Materials, is permitted as long as it is done in accordance with all applicable government laws and regulations.

11. Commercial Signs.

Commercial signs (including billboards) unrelated to permitted activities conducted on the Property are prohibited.

12. Recreational Uses; Motorized Vehicle Use Off Roadways Resort structures, athletic fields, golf courses, non-residential swimming pools, public or commercial airstrips, commercial equestrian facilities, public or commercial helicopter pads, and any other non-agricultural recreational structures or facilities are prohibited on the Property. The use of motorized vehicles off roadways is prohibited except where used for agricultural production, property maintenance and security, or for the purpose of monitoring this Easement.

13. Water Rights.

The Landowner shall retain and reserve all ground water, and all appropriative, 186
prescriptive, contractual or other water rights appurtenant to the Property at the time this Easement becomes effective. The Landowner shall not permanently transfer, encumber, lease, sell, or otherwise separate such quantity of water or water rights from title to the Property itself. Permanent separation of water or water rights is prohibited. All water shall be retained in Tulare County for agricultural production and used in conjunction with the improvements permitted by Section 5 of this Easement only.

Water may be temporarily distributed to a contiguous property or other property owned or leased by the Landowner on an annual basis for agricultural production only. Any temporary distribution of water shall not impair the long-term agricultural productive capacity or open space character of the Property.

14. Rights Retained by the Landowner.

Subject to Section 7 and to interpretation under Section 23, as owner of the Property, the Landowner reserves all interests in the Property not transferred, conveyed, restricted, prohibited or extinguished by this Easement. These ownership rights include, but are not limited to, the right to sell, lease, or otherwise transfer the Property to anyone the Landowner chooses, as well as the right to privacy, the right to exclude any member of the public from trespassing on the Property, and any other rights consistent with the Purpose of this Easement. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as a grant to the general public of any right to enter upon any part of the Property.

Nothing in this Easement relieves the Landowner of any obligation or restriction on the use of the Property imposed by law.

15. Responsibilities of the Landowner and the Grantee Not Affected.

Other than as specified herein, this Easement is not intended to impose any legal or other responsibility on the Grantee, or in any way to affect any existing obligation of the Landowner as owner of the Property. Among other things, this shall apply to:
(a) Taxes – The Landowner shall be solely responsible for payment of all taxes and assessments levied against the Property. If the Grantee ever pays any taxes or assessments on the Property, or if the Grantee pays levies on the Landowner’s interest in order to protect Grantee’s interests in the Property, the Landowner will reimburse the Grantee for the same. It is intended that this Easement constitute an enforceable restriction within the meaning of Article XIII, Section 8 of the California Constitution and that this Easement qualify as an enforceable restriction under the provisions of California Revenue and Taxation Code Sections 402.1(a)(8) and 423. (b) Upkeep and Maintenance – The Landowner shall be solely responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the Property, to the extent it may be required by law. The Grantee shall have no obligation for the upkeep or maintenance of the Property. If the Grantee acts to maintain the Property in order to protect the Grantee’s interest in the Property, 187
the Landowner will reimburse the Grantee for any such costs. (c) Liability and Indemnification – In view of the Grantee’s and the City negative rights, limited access to the land, and lack of active involvement in the day-to-day management activities on the Property, the Landowner shall indemnify, protect, defend and holds harmless the Grantee and the City, their respective officers, directors, members, employees, contractors, legal representatives, agents, successors and assigns (collectively, “Agents and Assigns”) from and against all liabilities, costs, losses, orders, liens, penalties, claims, demands, damages, expenses, or causes of action or cases, including without limitation reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising out of or in any way connected with or relating to the Property or the Easement. As between City, Grantee and Landowner, Landowner shall be solely liable for injury or the death of any person, or physical damage to any property, or any other costs or liabilities resulting from any act, omission, condition, or other matter related to or occurring on or about the Property, regardless of cause, unless due to the negligence or willful misconduct of the Grantee, the City, and/or their respective Agents and Assigns. The Grantee shall be named as an additional insured on Landowner’s general liability insurance policy.

Neither the Grantee, the City, nor their Agents and Assigns shall have responsibility for the operation of the Property, monitoring of hazardous conditions on it, or the protection of the Landowner, the public or any third parties from risks relating to conditions on the Property. Without limiting the foregoing, neither the Grantee, nor the City, nor their respective Agents and Assigns shall be liable to the Landowner or other person or entity in connection with consents given or withheld, or in connection with any entry upon the Property occurring pursuant to this Easement, or on account of any claim, liability, damage or expense suffered or incurred by or threatened against the Landowner or any other person or entity, except as the claim, liability, damage, or expense is the result of the gross negligence or intentional misconduct of the Grantee, or the City, or their respective Agents and Assigns.

The Landowner’s indemnification of the City shall extend to ensure that the City shall not incur any liability for the actions or inactions addressed herein.

16. Monitoring.
(a) The Grantee shall manage its responsibilities as holder of this Easement in order to uphold the Purpose of this Easement. The Grantee’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to, annual monitoring, such additional monitoring as circumstances may require, record keeping, and enforcement of this Easement, for the purpose of preserving the Property’s agricultural productive capacity and open space character in perpetuity. Failure of the Grantee to carry out these responsibilities shall not impair the validity of this Easement or limit its enforceability in any way. With reasonable advance notice (except in the event of an emergency circumstance or prevention of a threatened breach), Grantee shall have the right to enter upon, inspect, observe, monitor 188
and evaluate the Property to identify the current condition of, and uses and practices on the Property and to determine whether the condition, uses and practices are consistent with this Easement.
(b) Grantee shall indemnify, defend with counsel of Landowner’s choice, and hold Landowner harmless from, all expense, loss, liability, damages and claims, including Landowner’s attorneys’ fees, if necessary, arising out of Grantee’s entry on the Property, unless caused by a violation of this Easement by Landowner or by Landowner’s negligence or willful misconduct.
(c) The Grantee shall report to the City on or before February 1 of each year after the annual monitoring visit, describing method of monitoring, condition of the Property, stating whether any violations were found during the period, describing any corrective actions taken, the resolution of any violation, any requested or approved actions made in accordance with Section 4, and any transfer of interest in the Property. Failure of the Grantee to carry out these responsibilities shall not impair the validity of this Easement or limit its enforceability in any way.

17. Enforcement.
(a) The Grantee may take all actions, including legal actions, that it deems necessary to ensure compliance with the terms, conditions, covenants, and purposes of this Easement. The Grantee shall have the right to prevent and correct violations of the terms, conditions, covenants, and purposes of this Easement. If the Grantee finds what it believes is a violation or potential violation, it may at its discretion take appropriate legal action to ensure compliance with the terms, conditions, covenants, and purposes of this Easement and shall have the right to correct violations and prevent the threat of violations. Except when an ongoing or imminent violation could irreversibly diminish or impair the agricultural productive capacity and open space character of the Property, the Grantee shall give the Landowner written notice of the violation or potential violation, and thirty (30) days to correct it, before filing any legal action. (b) If a court with jurisdiction determines that a violation may exist, has occurred, or is about to occur, the Grantee may obtain an injunction, specific performance, or any other appropriate equitable or legal remedy, including (i) money damages, including damages for the loss of the agricultural conservation values protected by this Easement, (ii) restoration of the Property to its condition existing prior to such violation, and (iii) an award for all of the Grantee’s expenses incurred in stopping and correcting the violation, including but not limited to reasonable attorney’s fees. The failure of the Grantee to discover a violation or potential violation, or to take immediate legal action to prevent or correct a violation or potential violation known to the Grantee, shall not bar the Grantee from taking subsequent legal action. The Grantee’s remedies under this section shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to all remedies now or hereafter existing at law or in equity.
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(c) Without limiting the Landowner’s liability, the Grantee shall apply damages recovered to the cost of undertaking any corrective action on the Property. Should the restoration of lost values be impossible or impractical for whatever reason, the Grantee shall apply any and all damages recovered to furthering the Purpose of this Easement. (d) In the event the Grantee fails to enforce any term, condition, covenant or purpose of this Easement, as determined by the City, then the City, or their successors and assigns, shall have the right to enforce the Easement after giving notice to the Grantee and the Landowner and providing a reasonable opportunity under the circumstances for the Grantee to enforce any term, condition, covenant, or purpose of the Easement. In the event that the City have reasonable cause to suspect that the Grantee has failed to enforce any of the terms, conditions, covenants, or purposes of the Easement, the City and their successors and assigns shall be entitled to exercise the same right to enter the Property granted to the Grantee, including right of immediate entry in the event of an emergency or suspected emergency where the City or their successor or assign has reasonable cause to determine that immediate entry is required to prevent, terminate or mitigate a violation of this Easement.
(e) Failure or refusal to exercise any rights under the terms of this Easement by the Grantee or the City in the event of a violation by the Landowner of any term herein shall not constitute a waiver or forfeiture of the Grantee’s or the City right to enforce any term, condition, covenant, or purpose of this Easement.

18. Transfer of Easement.
(a) This Easement may only be assigned or transferred to an entity authorized to hold such Easement as specified under Section 10211 of the Public Resources Code and has similar purposes to preserve, is capable of managing the Easement, and protecting the mitigation of the impacts to agricultural lands and open space. Such an assignment or transfer may proceed only if the organization or agency expressly agrees to assume the responsibility imposed on the Grantee by the terms of this Easement and is expressly willing and able to hold this Easement for the Purpose for which it was created. All assignment and assumption agreements transferring the Easement shall be recorded in Tulare County within thirty (30) days.
(b) If the Grantee should desire to assign or transfer this Easement, the Grantee must obtain written permission from the Landowner and the City, which permission shall not be unreasonably withheld.
(c) If the Grantee or its successors ever ceases to exist or no longer qualifies under Section 170(h) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, or applicable state law, the City, in consultation with the Landowner, shall identify and select an appropriate private or public entity to whom this Easement shall be transferred. 190

19. Perpetual Duration and No Merger of Title.
(a) Pursuant to California Civil Code at Part 2, Chapter 4, (commencing with section 815), which defines and authorizes perpetual conservation easements, and California Government Code Section 65966 (a) that requires conservation easements to be perpetual when created to satisfy a local or state mitigation requirement; this Easement shall run with the land in perpetuity. Every provision of this Easement that applies to the Landowner or the Grantee shall also apply to their respective agents, heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, and all other successors as their interests may appear.
(b) No merger of title, estate or interest shall be deemed effected by any previous, contemporaneous, or subsequent deed, grant, or assignment of an interest or estate in the Property, or any portion thereof, to the Grantee, or its successors or assigns. It is the express intent of the parties that this Easement not be extinguished by, merged into, modified, or otherwise deemed affected by any other interest or estate in the Property now or hereafter held by the Grantee or its successors or assigns.

20. Transfer of Property Interest.
(a) Any time the Property itself, or any interest in it, is transferred by the Landowner to any third party, the Landowner shall notify the Grantee and the City in writing at least thirty (30) days prior to the transfer of the Property or interest, and the document of conveyance shall expressly incorporate by reference this Easement. Any document conveying a lease of the Property shall expressly incorporate by reference this Easement. Failure of the Landowner to do so shall not impair the validity of this Easement or limit its enforceability in any way.
(b) Prior to any sale, lease, license or other transfer of any interest in the Property, the Landowner shall inform the prospective transferee of this Easement and its terms and provide them with a copy of this Easement. Any such subsequent owners, lessees, licensees, or transferees shall succeed to and be bound by the terms of the Easement.

21. Amendment of Easement.
(a) This Easement may be amended only with the written consent of the Landowner, the Grantee, and the City. Any such amendment shall be consistent with the Purpose of this Easement and with the Grantee’s easement amendment policies, and shall comply with all applicable laws, including Section 170(h) of the Internal Revenue Code, or any regulations promulgated in accordance with that section, and with Section 815 et seq. of the California Civil Code, and the California Farmland Conservancy Program Act as codified in Section 10200 et seq. of the California Public Resources Code, and any regulations promulgated thereunder. No amendment shall diminish or affect the perpetual duration or the Purpose of this Easement, nor the status or rights of the Grantee under the terms of this Easement.
(b) This Easement and any amendment to it shall be recorded in Tulare County. A copy 191
of the recorded amendment shall be provided to the City within thirty (30) days of recordation.

22. Termination of Easement and Eminent Domain.
(a) Termination.
(i) It is the intention of the parties that the Conservation Purpose of this Easement shall be carried out forever as provided in the Section 10211 of the California Public Resources Code, Section 815 et seq. of the California Civil Code and California Government Code Section 65966 (a). Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65966 (a), this Easement is established to satisfy a local or state mitigation requirement, and cannot be terminated pursuant to the administrative termination provision defined in Public Resources Code sections 10270 et seq.

Accordingly, Landowner expressly waives on behalf of Landowner and Landowner’s successors and assigns all rights to terminate or extinguish this Easement, or request that this Easement be terminated or extinguished pursuant to the administrative termination provisions set forth in sections 10270 et. seq. of the Public Resources Code.
(ii) If circumstances arise in the future that render all of the Purposes of this Easement impossible to accomplish, this Easement may be terminated or extinguished, whether in whole or in part, on the initiative of the Grantee or the Landowner, but only by judicial proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction. The Grantee shall give notice to the City of any prospective termination or extinguishment of this Easement not less than 60 business days before initiating such proceedings. The City may intervene in any such judicial proceedings to protect or retain this Easement.
(iii)No inaction or silence by the Grantee shall be construed as abandonment of the Easement. The fact that the Property is not in agricultural use, or that agricultural use is no longer possible, is not reason for termination or extinguishment of this Easement so long as any of the Purposes of this Easement remains possible to accomplish. Other than pursuant to eminent domain or an involuntary acquisition for a necessary public use by public agency, corporation, or other entity or individual with the power of eminent domain (Acquiring Entity), no other voluntary or involuntary sale, exchange, conversion, transfer, assignment, lease, mortgage or other encumbrance, alienation or conveyance of any kind of all or part of the Property, or of any interest in it, shall limit or terminate or extinguish the provisions of this Easement.
(iv)Should all or part of the Property or any interest in it be proposed for acquisition for a necessary public use by an Acquiring Entity, the Landowner and the Grantee shall join in appropriate actions to recover the full value of the proposed acquisition and all incidental or direct damages resulting from the proposed acquisition as well 192
as all other payments to which they may be entitled by law (Compensation). The Acquiring Entity shall pay Compensation directly to the Landowner and the Grantee. The Compensation of such proceeding of the Landowner and the Grantee shall be divided in accordance with the proportionate values of the Landowner's and the Grantee's interests as specified in this Section 22(b), unless otherwise provided by applicable law.
(v) If the Landowner receives notice, formal or informal, that any Acquiring Entity intends to exercise its power of eminent domain as to the Property or any portion thereof or any interest therein, Landowner shall promptly, and in any event in not less than fifteen (15) business days after receipt of such notice, give written notice to the Grantee and the City of such receipt together with a copy of any and all communications related to such prospective eminent domain proceedings. The Landowner shall thereafter promptly provide to the Grantee and the City copies of all further communications related to such proceedings and cooperate with the Grantee and the City in responding to such proceedings. (vi)Acquisition of the Easement through the power of eminent domain is subject to the requirements of Section 10261 of the California Public Resources Code, the eminent domain laws of the State of California, including Section 1240.510 or Section 1240.610 of the Code of Civil Procedure, federal law, and this Easement.

The Property may not be taken by eminent domain or in lieu of eminent domain if the planned use is more than seven (7) years in the future (California Code of Civil Procedure section 1240.220). Purchase in lieu of condemnation, or settlement of an eminent domain proceeding, shall occur pursuant to applicable laws and procedures, including but not limited to California Government Code sections 7267.1 and 7267.2, and shall require approval of the Grantee, the City. The Grantee and the City shall have an opportunity to accompany the appraiser for the Acquiring Entity when the appraiser goes on the Property with Landowner. (vii) Should this Easement be condemned or otherwise terminated on any portion of the Property, the balance of the Property shall remain subject to this Easement and reimbursement shall be pro-rated. In this event, all relevant related documents shall be updated and re-recorded by the Grantee to reflect the modified easement area.

Encumbrances junior to this Easement shall remain subordinate to the Easement as amended.
(b) Compensation.
(i) The grant of this Easement gives rise to a property right immediately vested in Grantee.
(ii) Compensation of the Grantee shall proceed as follows: The value of the Easement terminated or extinguished shall be determined in accordance with this Section 22(b), and the Grantee shall receive from the Landowner the entire value of the Easement to the extent terminated or extinguished. Until such compensation is paid to the Grantee in full, the amount of that compensation shall be a first priority lien 193
on the Property with the same seniority as this Easement. This Easement shall not be deemed terminated or extinguished until such payment is received by the Grantee.
(iii) The parties stipulate and agree that except as otherwise required by state law, the fair market value of the Easement (the “Easement Value”) shall be equal to: (1) the fair market value of the Property, unencumbered by the Easement (the “Property Value”), less (2) the fair market value of the Property as encumbered by the Easement each as determined on or about the date of the termination. (iv) The Grantee is entitled to its full share of proceeds as calculated herein regardless of any amount owing to a lienholder, lender or other creditor of Landowner. (v) The fair market valuation shall be determined by an appraisal performed by a qualified appraiser jointly selected by the Landowner, the Grantee and the City.

Appraisals shall conform to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices.
(vi) If the Landowner has initiated termination of the Easement through a judicial proceeding, the Landowner shall pay the cost of the appraisal, and the appraisal is subject to approval by the City. Nothing herein shall prevent the Landowner, the Grantee, or the City from having an appraisal prepared at its own expense. (vii) If the Grantee obtains payment on a claim under a title insurance policy insuring this Easement, payment shall be distributed as set forth this Section 22(b).

23. Interpretation.
(a) This Easement shall be interpreted under the laws of the State of California, resolving any ambiguities and questions of the validity of specific provisions so as to give maximum effect to its conservation purposes.
(b) References to specific authorities in this Easement shall be to the statute, rule, regulation, ordinance, or other legal provision that is in effect at the time this Easement becomes effective.
(c) No provision of this Easement shall constitute governmental approval of any improvements, construction or other activities that may be permitted under this Easement.

24. Notices.

Any notices to the Landowner and the Grantee required by this Easementshall be in writing and shall be personally delivered or sent by First-Class Mail to the following addresses, unless a party has been notified by the other of a change of address:

To the Landowner:

Bernard and Rebecca Te Velde, Trustees of The 2000 Te
194
Velde Family Trust dated October 11th, 2000
2911 Hanford Armona Rd.

Hanford, CA 93230
To the Grantee:

Great Valley Land Trust
525 W. Main St. Ste 8
Visalia, CA 93291
Any notices required by this Easement to be sent to the City shall be in writing and shall be personally delivered or sent by First-Class Mail, at the following address, unless a party has been notified by the City, or either one of them, of a change of address:

To the City :

City of Visalia Community Development Dept.
315 E. Acequia Ave.

Visalia, CA 93291

25. The Landowner’s Environmental Warranty.
(a) Nothing in this Easement shall be construed as giving rise to any right or ability in the Grantee or the City to exercise physical or management control over the day-to-day operations of the Property, or any of the Landowner's activities on the Property, or otherwise to become an "owner" or "operator" with respect to the Property as those words are defined and used in environmental laws, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (“CERCLA”), as amended or any corresponding state and local statute or ordinance. (b) The Landowner warrants that it has no actual knowledge of a release or threatened release of any Hazardous Materials on, at, beneath or from the Property other than the use of Hazardous Materials in Landowner’s farming operations in compliance with Environmental Laws. Moreover the Landowner hereby promises to defend and indemnify the Grantee and the City against all litigation, claims, demands, penalties and damages, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, arising from or connected with the release or threatened release of any Hazardous Materials on, at, beneath or from the Property, or arising from or connected with a violation of any Environmental Laws.

The Landowner’s indemnification obligation shall not be affected by any authorizations provided by the Grantee to the Landowner with respect to the Property or any restoration activities carried out by the Grantee at the Property; provided, however, that the Grantee shall be responsible for any Hazardous Materials contributed after this date to the Property by the Grantee.
(c) “Hazardous Materials” means any petroleum, petroleum products, fuel oil, waste oils, explosives, reactive materials, ignitable materials, corrosive materials, hazardous chemicals, hazardous wastes, hazardous substances, extremely hazardous substances, 195
toxic substances, toxic chemicals, radioactive materials, infectious materials and any other element, compound, mixture, solution or substance which may pose a present or potential hazard to human health or the environment or any other material defined and regulated by Environmental Laws.
(d) The Landowner warrants that it shall remain in compliance with, all applicable Environmental Laws. The Landowner warrants that there are no notices by any governmental authority of any violation or alleged violation of, non-compliance or alleged non-compliance with or any liability under any Environmental Law relating to the operations or conditions of the Property.
(e) “Environmental Law” or “Environmental Laws” means any and all federal, state, local or municipal laws, rules, orders, regulations, statutes, ordinances, codes, guidelines, policies or requirements of any governmental authority regulating or imposing standards of liability or standards of conduct (including common law) concerning air, water, solid waste, Hazardous Materials, worker and community right-to-know, hazard communication, noise, radioactive material, resource protection, subdivision, inland wetlands and watercourses, health protection and similar environmental health, safety, building and land use as may now or at any time hereafter be in effect. (f) If at any time after the effective date of this Easement there occurs a release, discharge or other incident in, on, or about the Property of any substance now or hereafter defined, listed, or otherwise classified pursuant to any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or requirement as hazardous, toxic, polluting, or otherwise contaminating to the air, water, or soil, or in any way harmful or threatening to human health or the environment, the Landowner agrees to take any steps that are required of the Landowner with respect thereto under federal, state, or local law necessary to ensure its containment and remediation, including any cleanup.

26. The Landowner’s Title Warranty; No Prior Conservation Easements.

The Landowner represents and warrants that at the time of conveyance of this Easement:
(1) it owns the entire fee simple interest in the Property, including the entire mineral estate except as otherwise expressly identified in this Easement, and hereby promises to defend this Easement against all claims to the contrary; (2) Any and all financial liens or financial encumbrances with priority over this Easement existing as of the date of the recording of this Easement have been subordinated; and (3) the Property is not subject to any other conservation easement whatsoever.

27. Granting Subsequent Easements, Interests in Land, or Use Restrictions. (a) With permission of the Grantee pursuant to Section 4, the Landowner may grant subsequent easements, including conservation easements, interests in land, or use restrictions on the Property. Under no circumstances shall the Grantee approve the granting of subsequent easements, interests in land, or use restrictions that might diminish or impair the agricultural productive capacity or open space character of the 196
Property.
(b) The Grantee’s written approval shall be obtained at least thirty (30) days in advance of the Landowner’s execution of any proposed subsequent easement, interests in land, or use restriction on the Property, and such subsequent easements, interests in land, and use restrictions shall make reference to and be subordinate to this Easement. (c) The Grantee shall notify the City immediately upon receipt of request by the Landowner to grant a subsequent easement, interest in land, or use restriction on the Property, and provide copies of documents associated with such a request to the City. (d) The Grantee shall notify the City in the event that it approves the grant of any subsequent easement, interest in land, or use restriction on the Property.

28. Administrative Costs.

The administration of this Easement by Grantee requires considerable time and expense.

Grantee shall bear all routine administrative expenses related to the Easement including, but not limited to the following activities: routine easement monitoring and reporting, and notices of permitted activities, and routine staff work. Landowner agrees to pay the reasonable expenses of Grantee for non-routine administration of the Easement including, but not limited to actions requiring Grantee's prior approval, enforcement of Easement violations and any requests of Landowner that entail or require an amendment to this Easement.

29. Severability.

If any term, provision, covenant, condition, or restriction of this Easement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unlawful, invalid, void, unenforceable, or not effective the remainder of this Easement shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected, impaired, or invalidated.

30. Entire Agreement.

This Easement, including the attached exhibits and the Baseline Report, is the final and complete expression of the agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter contained herein. Any and all prior or contemporaneous agreements with respect to this subject matter, written or oral, are merged into and superseded by this written instrument.

The exhibits attached to and included in this Easement are:

Exhibit A - Legal Descriptions
Exhibit B – Maps
197

31. Acceptance.

As attested by the signature of its Executive Director affixed hereto, as authorized by Grantee’s Board of Directors/Trustees, in exchange for consideration, the Grantee hereby accepts without reservation the rights and responsibilities conveyed by this Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement.

To Have and To Hold, this Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement unto the Grantee, its successors and assigns, forever.
[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES]
198
In Witness Whereof, the Landowner and the Grantee, intending to legally bind themselves, have set their hands on the date first written above.

LANDOWNER
Bernard and Rebecca Te Velde, Trustees of The 2000 Te Velde Family Trust dated October 11th, 2000.

By: ________________________________
Name: Bernard Te Velde
Title: Authorized Representative

GRANTEE
Great Valley Land Trust,
a California nonprofit public benefit corporation
By: ________________________________
Name: Barry Lindner
Title: Board President
199

ACKNOWLEDGMENT
A notary public or other officer completing this
certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is
attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document.

State of California )
County of _______________ ) ss.

On ________________ before me,_____________________________, a Notary Public, personally appeared ____________________________________________________, who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.

I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.

WITNESS my hand and official seal.

Signature _____________________________
200

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
A notary public or other officer completing this
certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is
attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document.

State of California )
County of _______________ ) ss.

On _________________ before me,____________________________, a Notary Public, personally appeared ______________________________________________________, who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.

I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.

WITNESS my hand and official seal.

Signature _____________________________

201

ACCEPTANCE OF CONSERVATION EASEMENT BY THE CITY OF VISALIA

AND DISCHARGE OF AGRIGCULTURAL PRESERVATION REQUIREMENT

The CITY OF VISALIA, a municipal corporation (City), hereby accepts and approves the foregoing Deed of Agricultural Conservation Easement (the “Conservation Easement”) and the rights conveyed therein.

The city agrees that recordation of this Conservation Easement satisfies 33 acres of Artemis Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company’s obligation under Visalia Municipal Code Title 18, Chapter 18.04, Agricultural Land Preservation Program, which requires Artemis Partners, LLC to conserve 33 acres of Prime or Farmland of Statewide Importance” required in connection with the Cameron Ranch Estates project (“Project”) approved by the City on ________________. The City of Visalia approved the Project subject to preservation requirements including Section 18.04.080.C.9 pursuant to which the Project may purchase and dedicate a conservation easement to mitigate for impacts related to the loss of prime farmland and farmland of statewide importance.

CITY OF VISALIA
By: _______________________________________
Name:

Its:

Date: ________________
Approved as to Form:

City Counsel
By: _______________________________________
202
Exhibit A.1
203
Exhibit A.2
204
Exhibit B.1
Map 160 Acres Agricultural Conservation Easement
205
Exhibit B.2
Map of 33 Acres (portion) Easement Annexation for Cameron Ranch Estates Project

206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
Rd 28
Ave 264
0 500
Feet
±
Location within Tulare County
Farmland Mitigation
Cameron Estates
Baseline Documentation
Legend
147-020-004 Parcel
Boundary
Cameron Ranch
Estates
Residual Credit Area
Parcels
Parcel Location
References:

Tulare County
Assessor
Porterville
147-020-004
Cameron Estates
33 Ac.

Farmland Mitigation
127 Ac.
216
217
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0382 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 8.

Agenda Item Wording:

Authorize an updated resolution to receive and appropriate Homekey+ Funds - Approve an updated resolution (2025-64) authorizing a joint application with Self-Help Enterprises and Crescent Meadows LP for Homekey+ funds not to exceed $15 million; and appropriate $15 million in Homekey+ funds for the Crescent Meadows project, contingent upon an award.

Prepared by: Margie Perez, Housing Specialist, [email protected], (559) 713-4460; Melody Murch, Assistant Finance Director, [email protected], (559) 713-4379; Renee Nagel, Finance Director, [email protected], (559) 713-4375.

Department Recommendation:

Staff recommends that Council:
1) Adopt Resolution 2025-64 authorizing a joint application with Self-Help Enterprises and Crescent Meadows LP for Homekey+ funds not to exceed $15 million for the Crescent Meadows Project as required by California Department of Housing and Community Development; and
2) Appropriate Homekey+ funds up to $15 million for the development and operation of the Crescent Meadows project.

Summary:

On February 3, 2025, Council authorized resolution 2025-02 approving an application in conjunction with co-applicant Crescent Meadows LP for Homekey+ funds not to exceed $12 million to assist with the development and operation of the Crescent Meadows Project to develop an 80-unit senior affordable housing project with 24 Homekey+ assisted units. On August 15, 2025, California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) notified the City that it must provide an updated resolution which includes Self-Help Enterprises as a second co-applicant in addition to Crescent Meadows LP in order to proceed with the Homekey+ application. HCD recommends increasing the resolution approved amount to $15 million in the event the Homekey+ award is more than expected. Approval of this item will also appropriate $15 million in Homekey+ funds for the Crescent Meadows project, contingent upon an award of Homekey+ funds.

Background Discussion:

On November 26, 2024, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) in collaboration with the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet), announced the availability of approximately $2.145 billion of Homekey+ grant funding statewide and approximately $117 million will be available for the San Joaquin Valley, derived from Proposition 1 as shown in Attachment “A” - Homekey+ NOFA. Homekey+ is the permanent housing component of the Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act, part of Proposition 1 passed by California voters in March 2024. Homekey+ supports the development of Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) for Veterans and individuals with mental health or substance use disorder challenges who are at-risk of or experiencing Visalia City Council Page 1 of 3 Printed on 8/26/2025
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File #: 25-0382 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 8.
mental health or substance use disorder challenges who are at-risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Homekey+ NOFA: The Homekey+ funding available in this NOFA is targeted to provide Permanent Supportive Housing for individuals or households with an individual who is Homeless, Chronically Homeless, or At Risk of Homeless, and who are also living with a Behavioral Health Challenge.

Homekey+ provides applicants the flexibility to take advantage of opportunities available within their specific communities that will result in the prompt acquisition and availability of new homes with a focus on cost containment. It will also finance new construction for projects that can be built quickly in a cost-efficient manner. Examples of eligible uses include acquisition and rehabilitation of existing sites (e.g. hotels/motels, apartments), master leasing, new construction, and the purchase of affordability covenants. All Homekey+ projects are required to have an abundance of supportive services within one-half mile or on-site to ensure tenants long-term housing stability and prevent recidivism.

On April 3, 2025, the City of Visalia and co-applicant Crescent Meadows LP applied for Homekey+ funds to assist with the development and operation of the Crescent Meadows Project to develop an 80-unit senior affordable housing project with 24 Homekey+ assisted units. To proceed with the Homekey+ application the City is required to execute an updated Resolution to include a second coapplicant Self-Help Enterprises in addition to Crescent Meadows LP. HCD recommends increasing the resolution amount to $15 million in the event the awarded amount is higher than expected.

Crescent Meadows: Crescent Meadows is an 80-unit senior affordable housing project with oneand two-bedrooms located at the northwest corner of Ferguson Ave. and N. Dinuba Blvd. in the City of Visalia. Crescent Meadows is being developed by Crescent Meadows, L.P., a California Limited Partnership in partnership with Self-Help Enterprises, and Visalia Senior Housing (VSH). The project will be affordable senior housing serving individuals over the age of 62, and 24 units will be set aside for seniors experiencing homelessness, or at-risk of homelessness.

Next Steps: if awarded Homekey+ funds the Homekey+ contract agreement will be executed, and construction will begin in the fall of 2025. Construction is expected to last 24 months and be completed in the fall of 2027. Full occupancy is expected by winter of 2027.

Fiscal Impact: Approval of this item will appropriate the Homekey+ funds, contingent upon award, for an amount not to exceed $15 million toward the development and operation of the Crescent Meadows senior housing project. No General Fund money is requested or budgeted for this project.

Prior Council Action: February 3, 2025 - Council authorized resolution 2025-02, approving staff to apply for up to $15 million in Homekey+ funds for the development of Crescent Meadows an 80-unit senior affordable housing project with 24 Homekey+ assisted units.

Other: None.

Alternatives: None.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move that Council: •
Visalia City Council Page 2 of 3 Printed on 8/26/2025
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File #: 25-0382 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 8.

Adopt Resolution 2025-64 authorizing a joint application with Self-Help Enterprises and Crescent Meadows LP for Homekey+ funds not to exceed $15 million; and • Appropriate up to $15 million in Homekey+ funds for the development and operation of the Crescent Meadows project, contingent upon award.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: Attachment A: Resolution 2025-64
Visalia City Council Page 3 of 3 Printed on 8/26/2025
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AUTHORIZING RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION NO. 25-64

CRESCENT MEADOWS PROJECT

A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF CITY OF VISALIA AUTHORIZING JOINT APPLICATION TO AND PARTICIPATION IN THE HOMEKEY+ PROGRAM WHEREAS:

A. The Department of Housing and Community Development (“HCD”) has issued a Notice of Funding Availability, dated November 26, 2024 (“NOFA”), for the Homekey+ Program (“Homekey+” or “Program”). HCD has issued the NOFA for Homekey+ grant funds pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 50675.1.3 (Assem. Bill No. 140 (2021-2022 Reg. Sess.), § 20.); Health and Safety Code Section 50675.1.5 (Assem. Bill No. 531 (2023-2024 Reg. Sess.); Section 14184.402 of the Welfare and Institutions Code; Section 5891.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code; and Round 5 and 6 of the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) grant program. (Assem. Bill No. 129 (Chapter 40, Statutes 2023) and Assem. Bill No. 166 (Chapter 48, Statutes 2024), respectively.

B. CITY OF VISALIA (“Applicant”) desires to jointly apply for Homekey grant funds with SELF-HELP ENTERPRISES and CRESCENT MEADOWS, L.P. (“Co-Applicant”). Therefore, Applicant is joining Co-Applicant in the submittal of an application for Homekey+ funds (“Application”) to HCD for review and consideration.

C. HCD is authorized to administer Homekey+ pursuant to the Multifamily Housing Program (Chapter 6.7 (commencing with Section 50675) of Part 2 of Division 31 of the Health and Safety Code). Homekey+ funding allocations are subject to the terms and conditions of the NOFA, the Application, the Departmentapproved STD 213, Standard Agreement (“Standard Agreement”), and all other legal requirements of the Homekey+ Program.

THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED THAT:

1. Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to submit a joint Application to HCD in response to the NOFA, and to jointly apply for Homekey+ grant funds in a total amount not to exceed $15,000,000.

2. If the Application is approved, Co-Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to enter into, execute, and deliver a Standard Agreement in a total amount not to exceed $15,000,000, any and all other documents required or deemed necessary or appropriate to secure the Homekey+ funds from HCD and to participate in the Homekey+ Program, and all amendments thereto (collectively, the “Homekey+ Documents”).

3. Applicant acknowledges and agrees that it shall be subject to the terms and 221
conditions specified in the Standard Agreement, and that the NOFA and Application will be incorporated in the Standard Agreement by reference and made a part thereof. Any and all activities, expenditures, information, and timelines represented in the Application are enforceable through the Standard Agreement. Funds are to be used for the allowable expenditures and activities identified in the Standard Agreement.

4. The Mayor is authorized to execute the Application and the Homekey+ Documents on behalf of Applicant for participation in the Homekey+ Program.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 2nd day of September, 2025, by the following vote:

AYES: [ _] NAYES: [ _] ABSTAIN: [ _] ABSENT: [ _]
The undersigned, Leslie Caviglia, City Manager of Applicant, does hereby attest and certify that the foregoing is a true and full copy of a resolution of the governing body adopted at a duly convened meeting on the date above-mentioned, and that the resolution has not been altered, amended, or repealed.

SIGNATURE: ________________________ DATE: _____________________ NAME: _____________________________ TITLE: _____________________ 222
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0385 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

Amendment to Measure N Budget - Conduct the second public hearing to appropriate additional funds of $519,638 for the modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station

52. Prepared by: Donny MacLennan, Building Maintenance Superintendent 713-4525; [email protected] Alvin Dias, Parks and Facilities Manager 713-4564; [email protected] Jason Glick, Parks and Recreation Director 713-4042; jason.glick@visalia Department Recommendation: Conduct the second of two Public Hearings to amend the Measure N budget to appropriate an additional $519,638 for the modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station 52.

Upon completion of the public hearing, staff is requesting Council to approve the appropriation of $519,638 for the modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station 52.

Summary:

Measure N, the ½ cent sales tax that began April 1, 2017, requires the City to conduct two Public Hearings before amending the 2025/26 spending plan to appropriate additional funds for the modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station 52. The cost of the amendment is $519,638.

On August 4, 2025, the City Council approved change orders 1 through 3 with TK Elevator in the amount of $199,306 and for staff to initiate the Measure N budget amendment process to appropriate an additional $519,638 for FY 2025/26.

On August 11, 2025, City Staff met with the Measure N Committee and presented the recommended amendment, including a detailed summary of the request, the increased budget, and why the increases were necessary. Upon being presented with the proposed amendment and appropriation, the committee was provided with an opportunity for comments. Upon accepting the motion, the committee recommended approval of this item.

On August 18,2025, City Council conducted the first of two public hearings to amend the Measure N budget.

Background Discussion:

Measure N serves as the funding source to repair buildings. These projects are typically roof repairs, HVAC replacements, and large miscellaneous repairs to City facilities. The City currently operates thirteen (13) elevators at various facilities. There are two (2) elevators within the West Acequia Parking Structure (located across from the Hospital), one (1) at the East Acequia Parking Structure (located across from City Hall East), and one (1) at Fire Station 52 (located at 2224 W. Monte Vista).

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File #: 25-0385 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 1.

Of these elevators only one elevator is currently operational at West Acequia Parking Structure. The other three (3) elevators have experienced operational failures and have been out of service for almost a year due to part manufacturing, repair personnel availability and the time involved in design.

On November 18, 2024, Council awarded a contract to TK Elevator for $804,013 to modernize the four elevators by doing a major overhaul on them. Over the last six months, TKE has been manufacturing components for the elevators. Since the contract award, tariffs have been put in place by the Federal Government causing an increase in material costs by $10,000 (change order #1). In addition, it was discovered that the insulation inside the hydraulic tank of the south elevator at the West Acequia Parking Structure had separated and contaminated the hydraulic oil, destroying the hydraulic control valve. The cost for the removal and installation of new hydraulic tanks is $90,000 (change order #2)
Staff is also anticipating a third change order for the replacement and relocation of the elevator hydraulic line at Fire Station 52 for an estimated cost of $100,000 (potential change order #3). TK Elevator will need to install the new hydraulic ram to test the existing hydraulic line. It is hopeful that the line is functional, but if the line fails the pressure test, the City will need to install a new hydraulic line across the building from the machine room to the elevator.

TKE has also informed staff that the Fire, Life, Safety systems will need to be updated to meet the current building code. This update will be completed by another vendor who coordinates with TKE.

Staff are also requesting a 10% construction contingency for any unforeseen issues that may arise.

The East Parking Structure was built in 2001 (24 years old) and the West Parking Structure was built in 2007 (18 years old). Both the Parking Structures have been experiencing equipment failures, costly repairs, and many of the replacement parts have become obsolete. Staff have been working with TK Elevators for the past several years to keep the elevators functional and in compliance with the State of California regulations. This has led to costly repairs and the elevators to be down for long periods of time until replacement parts could be located. The non-functioning elevators have become more frequent as the elevators continue to age and have become especially noticeable at the West Acequia Parking Structure due to the high-volume use for Kaweah Health patients and staff.

There are two (2) elevators within the West Acequia Parking Structure and one (1) at the East Acequia Parking Structure. Of these elevators only one elevator is currently operational at West Acequia Parking Structure and continues require maintenance to resolve functional issues. The other two (2) elevators have experienced operational failures and have been out of service for several months.

Fire Station 52 was built in 1995 and is 30 years old. The elevator has been non-operational since April 2024 after failing the State required load test. During this time, TK Elevators discovered that the hydraulic ram that lifts and lowers the elevator cart was failing and would need to be replaced for the elevator to pass inspection and be operable for use. This is a costly repair due to the design of the system.

To get the three elevators operational (2 at parking structures + 1 at Station 52) and modernize the one functional elevator, Council awarded a contract to TK Elevator for $804,013 to modernize the four elevators by doing a major overhaul on them in November 2024. Over the last six months, TKE has been manufacturing components for the elevators. Since the contract award, material costs have Visalia City Council Page 2 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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been documented to have increased by $10,000 (change order #1). In addition, it was discovered that the insolation inside the hydraulic tank of the south elevator at the West Acequia Parking Structure had separated and contaminated the hydraulic oil, destroying the hydraulic control valve.

During the original evaluation of the elevators the hydraulic tanks were in good condition. The cost for the removal and installation of new hydraulic tanks is $90,000 (change order #2) Staff is also anticipating a third change order (change order #3) for the replacement and relocation of the elevator hydraulic line at Fire Station 52. The existing hydraulic line runs under the concrete bays and is directly buried in the soil. TK Elevator will need to install the new hydraulic ram to test the existing hydraulic line. It is hopeful that the line is functional, but if the line fails the pressure test, we will need to install a new hydraulic line across the building from the machine room to the elevator.

The estimated cost for this change order is $100,000. These three change orders total $199,306.

In addition, TKE has informed staff that the Fire, Life, Safety systems will also need to be updated to meet the current building code. The System will need to be updated for the three non-operating elevators plus the one functional at the West Parking Structure. This work will need to be performed by another vendor who will coordinate with TKE. Staff are currently receiving quotes from our current vendor for the system upgrade. If the price is more than $100,000, staff will return to Council for the award. This does not need to be approved by the Measure N Committee, just the budget amendment.

Measure N Budget Amendment Process:
• Recommendation to City Council to make changes and present them to the Measure N Committee;
• Staff receives comments by Committee;
• Staff conducts two public hearings at regular Council Meetings to consider amendments.

Staff is requesting that the Council proceed with the Measure N process and conduct the second public hearing in order to continue with the Measure N budget amendment process for the three change orders, Safety System upgrades, and a 10% construction contingency for any unforeseen issues that may arise totaling $519,638.

Any remaining funds at the completion of the elevator modernization project would be disbursed back to the Measure N funds.

Fiscal Impact: During the 2024/25 Budget process, Council approved a $1.18 million capital project in the Measure N Fund for Building Maintenance. This project is used for roof repairs, HVAC replacements, and large miscellaneous repairs to City facilities.

The life expectancy of an elevator is now twenty years. Based on the age of the elevators and ongoing issues, staff had included the elevator repairs in the budget to be performed in phases, starting with the two (2) elevators at the West Acequia Parking Structure in FY 24-25, and the one (1) elevator at the East Acequia Parking Structure to be completed in FY 25-26. Fire Station 52 was not originally included in the budget due to not having any major issues. To stay within the elevator budget, Station 52 was swapped with the second elevator in the West Parking Structure.

Staff are requesting to continue the Measure N amendment process to appropriate an additional Visalia City Council Page 3 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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$519,638 as shown in the table below.

Modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station 52 Project
Current Budget $804,013
Change Order #1 – Tariff cost increase $9,306
Change Order #2 – Hydraulic Oil Reservoir Tanks (West Parking Structure)
$90,000
Anticipated Change Order #3 – Hydraulic line replacement and relocation (Fire Station 52)
$100,000
Fire, Life, Safety required upgrades – All elevators (estimate) $200,000 Construction Contingency (est.10%) $120,332
Total Estimated Project Costs $1,323,651
Total Additional Appropriation Request $519,638
Prior Council Action:

August 18, 2025 - City Staff presented the first of two public hearings.

August 4, 2025 - Authorized staff to enter into Measure N Amendment Process and approved change orders 1 through 3 to TK Elevator.

June 17, 2024 - the City Council approved the appropriation of $310,000 in CIP CP0250 for the modernization of the elevators within the 300 E Acequia Parking Structure.

Other: None
Alternatives: Reject staffs request to conduct a public hearing and perform a second Request for Bids. This will delay the repairs and use of the elevators to reach the upper levels of the facilities.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I authorize the City Manager to amend the Measure N Budget and appropriate an additional $519,638 for the modernization of elevators within both parking structures and Fire Station 52 from the Measure N Building Maintenance Fund.

Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 9/2/2025
Attachments: TK Elevator Tariff Change Order #1, TK Elevator Hydraulic Tanks Change Order #2 Visalia City Council Page 4 of 4 Printed on 8/29/2025
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Subcontract Change Order Request Date:

This request for a formal Change Order is made for the above-referenced Contractor and specifically intends to modify and amend the work, price and/or terms set forth in above-referenced Subcontract as follows:

An additional sum of $ shall be added to the contract price in connection with import charges passed on to TK Elevator by its suppliers as a consequence of new and/or increased government-mandated tariffs. acknowledges and agrees to issue a formal, signed change order to TK Elevator covering this additional amount prior to the release or procurement of any affected materials.

This escalation applies solely to tariff-related increases.

Total Amount of this Change Order to be added to the contract price: $ In the event of any conflict between the work, price and/or terms and conditions of the above-referenced Subcontract or prior change orders thereto and this Change Order, this Change Order shall be final. Please sign two (2) copies of this Change Order and return two (2) copies to TK Elevator. A fully executed copy of this Change Order will be returned to you for your files.

Signed Acceptance:

By signing this Change Order where indicated below, the Contractor’s signatory hereby acknowledges (a) that the Contractor agrees to all of the terms and conditions contained herein, (b) that the signatory has the authorization necessary to bind the Contractor to agreements of this nature, and (c) that this form is valid and binding notwithstanding any conflicts with procedures and/or forms required by the original Subcontract referenced above which are deemed to have been waived.

This change order/notice scope of work requires the anticipated or current project schedule, and associated time frames, to be adjusted commensurate with the time necessary for the engineering, material procurement and additional labor. TK Elevator will provide a revised project schedule on expedited schedule change order/notice scope of work to the purchaser upon request.

Subcontractor:

TK Elevator Corporation
Contractor:

By: Date Date: :

Title
:

By:

Title:

PROJECT NUMBER:

CONTRACT DATE:

CHANGE ORDER NUMBER:

PROJECT NAME:

PROJECT ADDRESS:

CONTRACTOR NAME:

CONTRACTOR ADDRESS:

SUBCONTRACTOR NAME:

SUBCONTRACTOR ADDRESS:

TK Elevator Corporation
Title:

Date:
227
Subcontract Change Order Request Date: 06/09/2025
This request for a formal Change Order is made for the above-referenced Contractor and specifically intends to modify and amend the work, price and/or terms set forth in above-referenced Subcontract as follows:

This change order covers the material and labor to replace the (2) Schindler Tank units, Rupture/Overspeed/Shutoff Valves for 222 Acequia Parking Garage.

City Of Visalia agrees to issue a formal change order to TK Elevator for the described work before any associated material will be ordered and labor will be scheduled.

Total Amount of this Change Order to be added to the contract price: $90,000.00 In the event of any conflict between the work, price and/or terms and conditions of the above-referenced Subcontract or prior change orders thereto and this Change Order, this Change Order shall be final. Please sign two (2) copies of this Change Order and return two (2) copies to TK Elevator. A fully executed copy of this Change Order will be returned to you for your files.

Signed Acceptance:

Subcontractor: Contractor:

TK Elevator Corporation City Of Visalia
By: Edward Werley Date: 06/09/2025 By: Donny MacLennan Date:

Title
:

MANAGER - PROJECT III, FIELD

OPERATIONS
Title: Facilities Superintendent, Building
Maintenance
PROJECT NUMBER: 276183
CONTRACT DATE: 1/6/2025
CHANGE ORDER NUMBER: 1
PROJECT NAME: DOWNTOWN PKG & FIRE STATION 52
PROJECT ADDRESS: 2224 W MONTE VISTA
VISALIA, CA, 93277-7227
CONTRACTOR NAME: City Of Visalia
CONTRACTOR ADDRESS: 336 N Ben Maddox Way
Visalia, CA, 93292
SUBCONTRACTOR NAME: TK ELEVATOR CORPORATION
SUBCONTRACTOR ADDRESS: 940 Riverside Pkwy, Ste 20
West Sacramento, CA, 95605
228
Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0379 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 2.

Agenda Item Wording:

Public Hearing and Ordinance Adoption -
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02: A request by the City of Visalia to change the land use designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from Parks/Recreation to Commercial Mixed Use.

First Reading of Ordinance to adopt Change of Zone No. 2025-03: A request by the City of Visalia to change the zoning designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from QP (Quasi-Public) to C-MU (Commercial Mixed Use).

Location: The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100-103).

Prepared by:

Brandon Smith, Principal Planner, [email protected], (559) 713-4636; Paul Bernal, Planning and Community Preservation Director, [email protected], (559) 713- 4025
Department Recommendation:

The Planning Commission recommends that the City Council take the following actions, consistent with the staff recommendation made to Planning Commission on August 11, 2025:
1) Adopt Initial Study / Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 (Resolution No. 2025-66 required). 2) Approve General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 (Resolution No. 2025-65 required). 3) Conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 2025-09 to adopt Change of Zone No. 2025-03.

If approved by the City Council, staff will bring back the second reading of the Ordinance at a later City Council meeting.

The entitlements are supported by both the Planning Commission and staff based on the project’s consistency with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. In addition, the entitlements are consistent with the recommendation of the City Council during the work session item held on August 19, 2024, which was to change 16 acres out of the 21-acre parcel toward Commercial Mixed Use and retain 5 acres on the northwest portion of the parcel for the existing Parks/Recreation designation.

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Summary:

General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 together are a request by the City of Visalia to change the general plan land use and zoning designations of 16 acres from Parks/Recreation land use (QP zone) to Commercial Mixed Use (C-MU zone), as shown in the attached General Plan and Zoning maps, and in the aerial map in Attachment 1. The 16 acres are part of an overall 21-acre undeveloped parcel located on the northwest corner of North Akers Street and West Riggin Avenue.

The reclassification of land use and zoning designations is based upon the recommendation of the City Council upon the conclusion of three work session discussions held on January 16, 2020, June 7, 2021, and August 19, 2024. The site has always held the general plan land use and zoning designation of Parks/Recreation / QP zone since the property’s annexation in 2010.

Visalia Unified School District sold the site to the City of Visalia in 2014 and has retained property to the north for development of a middle school and future high school. Visalia’s General Plan, adopted in 2014, illustrates this site in a Parks/Facilities Map as a potential location for a new community park serving the northwest quadrant. General Plan Policy PSCU-P-5 more explicitly calls for the creation of a new community park to be built in and to serve the northwest quadrant.

The proposed project only changes the land use and zoning designations associated with the parcel.

No development is being proposed or is planned in correlation with the project at this time. The City Council’s direction to staff from the work session meeting was to also prepare and release a Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit potential land developers to submit design proposals for this site, and to hold a future meeting to discuss design stipulations and use limitations on the site. These latter actions will be forthcoming.

Background:

Over the course of the three work sessions held to discuss land uses on the site, City staff suggested that the City-owned property at Akers & Riggin may be better suited for a land use other than Parks/Recreation given its location at a major intersection, with speculation towards a commercial designation. Under the proposed GPA/COZ, a community park could still be developed on the remaining 5-acre portion of the site, or be developed on a different site in the northwest quadrant.

Staff presented viable non-residential land use alternatives to the Council at the work sessions.

Between the times that the four work sessions were held, the Carleton Acres Specific Plan was drafted and adopted in 2023, solidifying a new commercial land use designation further to the west.

Based upon the work session held on August 19, 2024, the City Council recommended a 4-1 vote (Poochigian, no) in favor of changing the designation to 16 acres out of the 21-acre parcel toward Commercial Mixed Use, and retaining 5 acres on the northwest portion of the parcels for potential park use.

Surrounding Uses:

To the north, on the north side of the Sedona Avenue alignment, a 103-acre parcel owned by Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) contains Ridgeview Middle School and land for a future high school Visalia City Council Page 2 of 7 Printed on 8/29/2025
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campus.

To the west of the city-owned site is a 29-acre parcel that is owned by a private entity and is zoned for high-density multi-family residential use. This parcel has been incorporated into the Carleton Acres Specific Plan. On May 29, 2025, a Conditional Use Permit application was filed with the City for a 442-unit development on this site, at a density of 15 units / acre consistent with R-M-3 zone standards; however, the application is incomplete at this time.

The surrounding area beyond the VUSD parcel is currently seeing a steady amount of growth and interest in future development planning. To the east, the 219-unit Ritchie Reserve Apartments are nearing completion, and two small-lot single family residential subdivisions have been proposed to the City, one of which has applied for a tentative subdivision map (i.e. Ritchie Ranch). To the west and northwest, the Carleton Acres Specific Plan was approved in 2023 for the long-term buildout of approximately 3,200 dwelling units and 29 acres of commercial uses anchored by Costco Wholesale at the corner of Shirk & Riggin and a future neighborhood commercial designation at the southwest corner of Akers Street & Avenue 320 (see attachment: Figure 1 and Figure 2).

General Plan Consistency - Community Park Designation:

Policy PSCU-P-5 further states that community parks shall be 5 to 12 acres in size or more, and are intended to include resources beyond those found at neighborhood parks, such as a community center building, reserved picnic facilities, tennis courts, aquatic center, and/or outdoor concert area.

A community park would fill a void that currently exists for this type of facility that would be comparable to Recreation Park / Anthony Community Center or Whitendale Park / Community Center. The General Plan notes that the northwest quadrant currently lacks a community center building, and Policy PSCU-P-16 calls to provide at least one community center in each of the City’s four neighborhood quadrants.

The community park would also be larger in scale than neighborhood parks found throughout the City - the closest being Lions and Soroptimist Parks located one mile southwest or southeast from the site.

The current size of the project site, at 21 acres, is significantly larger than the policy guideline of “5 to 12 acres or more” for community parks. The proposed GPA / COZ would reduce the size of the Parks designation to 5 acres, which would remain within the size range of a community park.

Within the City’s northwest quadrant, there are two other undeveloped Park land use designations that could facilitate a community park. These sites are 15 acres near the northeast corner of Visalia City Council Page 3 of 7 Printed on 8/29/2025
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that could facilitate a community park. These sites are 15 acres near the northeast corner of Demaree Street & Pratt Avenue and 10 acres fronting the future Riverway Avenue extension north of Modoc Basin. Both sites are visible in Figure 3 above. Both designated sites could facilitate the northwest quadrant’s community park based on their acreage. There is a potential opportunity for the City to purchase the Demaree & Pratt land based on early preliminary discussions with a property owner in that area seeking to develop their property that has a park land use designation of equivalent acreage. There have been no discussions regarding the 10 acres of park designated land fronting the future Riverway Avenue extension north of Modoc Basin.

It should be noted that the conceptual use plan for Carleton Acres does plan for parks to be scattered throughout the development, but none being classified as neighborhood or community parks over two acres in size. This is intentional since the General Plan did not designate any land use designations for parks on the Carleton Acres site. The Parks and Recreation Department does not anticipate purchasing any land in the Carleton Acres neighborhood bound by Shirk, Akers, and Avenue 320.

Attachment 2 illustrates non-residential land use designations in the surrounding vicinity.

General Plan Consistency - Land Use Element/General Plan/Zoning:

Land Use Policy LU-P-66 states that the Commercial Mixed Use land use designation allows for either horizontal or vertical mixed use development and a range of commercial, service, office, and residential uses. Commercial uses must be allowed for in a development, while residential uses may or may not be part of a development. The Zoning Ordinance further states, in Section 17.19.010, that the mixed use commercial zone district may permit development at both at key activity nodes and along corridors. There is no further locational criteria regarding Commercial Mixed Use elsewhere in the City.

Among Visalia’s commercial designations (i.e. Regional Commercial, Neighborhood Commercial), Commercial Mixed Use zone provides the largest amount of flexibility for a commercial-oriented designation in terms of uses, size, and placement. The northwest area is not significantly underserved with retail uses at this time; however, the nearest existing shopping areas from the intersection are located at Demaree / Riggin (The Village at Willow Creeks) and Akers / Goshen (Key West Shopping Center), both of which are one mile away.

The project site has the potential to be served by multiple single-family and multi-family residential uses and major school facilities that are all adjacent to the site and would be accessed from the adjacent arterial/arterial intersection. Vacant land to the west is slated for the inclusion of an off-street bike/pedestrian trail linking the City site to the rest of the Carleton Acres development.

A larger Commercial Mixed Use designation (10+ acres) can facilitate a shopping center anchored by a supermarket, warehouse supermarket, or home improvement store and supported by additional retail and food establishments. The nearest such development is located at Demaree / Riggin (Lowes), one mile to the east.

Potential Design Considerations and Future Request for Proposal (RFP) Process:

If the City Council approves the proposed GPA / COZ, staff intends to prepare and circulate a Request for Proposal to solicit potential land developers to submit design proposals for this site that Visalia City Council Page 4 of 7 Printed on 8/29/2025
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Request for Proposal to solicit potential land developers to submit design proposals for this site that demonstrate the Council’s desire to have a superior development design and layout for this site. The RFP process would spell out expectations of the development to embody a well-designed and attractive development with a high likelihood of success that will be compatible with and serve the school population as well as the surrounding community. The RFP would address the developer’s responsibility to process the necessary Planning entitlement applications (if applicable) and CEQA environmental analysis for the alternative land use.

Staff’s expectation is that a future City Council work session will be held to discuss the potential design requirements and land use limitations or stipulations that would apply to the site to ensure a superior development that aligns with Council’s vision. This work session would be necessary to finalize the RFP’s scope and content prior to its release. Upon successful completion of the RFP process, staff could then present the submittals to Council for their selection on the best design proposal submittal.

Public Hearing & Review held by Planning Commission:

The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on August 11, 2025, to consider General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03. The affiliated staff report is provided as Attachment 5.

During the public hearing, one member from the public shared concern that perhaps the request would result in too much reduction of public park acreage. Concerns were also shared that the resulting 5 acres of Parks designation would leave no or too little room for on-site parking, or would result in a reduced size of the park after inclusion of the parking area.

In the discussion among Commissioners, Commissioner Tavarez noted that the reduction of parks/recreation land makes sense as is and would not have a significant impact on facilities in the area, and pointed to the current availability and usage of park facilities on the Neighborhood Church property to the south and Ridgeview Middle School to the north.

Commissioner Norman expressed concerns regarding the overall loss of acreage associated with the parks while having a sufficient supply of commercial land in the northwest quadrant. With the understanding that an RFP would be released later in 2025 for the preparation of a Park Facilities Master Plan, Commissioner Norman further expressed that the action was premature until such master plan would be completed. Commissioner Beattie noted that there was no feedback from the Parks Department on what could be done with 5 acres, or if suitable amenities together with parking could be provided on the 5 acres.

Planning Commissioners made a motion for each individual entitlement, and each item passed on a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Beattie and Norman voting no on both requests.

Fiscal Impact: The General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone actions will have no impact to the city. Regarding the sale of the site, since the City purchased the site using Park Impact Fees, any portion of land that will be sold for non-park use will require payment back to the Park Impact fee program.

Prior Council Action:
· On January 16, 2020, at a Joint City Council-Planning Commission meeting, in the context of land use planning around VUSD’s future high school site, the Council directed staff to proceed with a recommended motion to research and present back for Council consideration of potential Visalia City Council Page 5 of 7 Printed on 8/29/2025
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land use and zoning designations to the 21-acre parcel. · On June 7, 2021, the City Council met to discuss and seek direction on potential changes to the zoning and General plan designation on the subject site. Council favored the Commercial Mixed Use zone as a preferred land use / zone district alternative, but tabled taking any action on the item so that staff could prepare a list of allowed uses in the Commercial Mixed Use (CMU) zone and to consider park opportunities in the Carleton Acres Specific Plan area, which would be later adopted in 2023.
· On August 19, 2024, the City Council confirmed the type and amount of the alternative land use and zoning for the subject site, and further directed staff to prepare and release a RFP for the solicitation of design proposals for the site. Council further directed staff to return to discuss the specific design, land uses, and limitations on the property.

Alternatives:

The City Council may, in lieu of the recommended motion specified above, consider any of the following alternatives:

1. After opening and closing the public hearing, if the Council seeks additional information, continue the agenda item to a City Council meeting on a specified date.

2. Approve the item with a different amount of Commercial Mixed Use land use and zoning designation acreage, as directed by Council.

3. If Council is considering a different amount of Commercial Mixed Use land use and zoning designation acreage, refer the item with revisions back to the Planning Commission.

4. Deny the entitlements.

Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):

I move to approve Resolution No. 2025-65, to approve General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02; and, I move to conduct the First reading of the approval of Ordinance No. 2025-09 to adopt Change of Zone No. 2025-03.

Environmental Assessment Status & CEQA Review:

An Initial Study and Negative Declaration were prepared for the proposed project. This environmental review was prepared for the proposed General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone only and does not consider any environmental impacts regarding any future development, as such development would also be subject to separate environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) once details of the development are known.

Initial Study and Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 (see Attachment 6), prepared in accordance with CEQA Guidelines, disclosed that environmental impacts are determined to be not significant. Staff concludes that Initial Study and Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 adequately analyzes and addresses the proposed project and concludes that environmental impacts related to this project will be at a level that is less than significant.

During the public comment period for the Negative Declaration, one comment letter was received by the State Department of Toxic Substances Control (see Attachment 4). The letter recommends that in instances where land is proposed to be rezoned to residential use, that the lead agency shall identify certain pesticide materials as described in the letter, which would determine if any remedial action is needed to bring levels below thresholds. Since no activity is proposed on the site and since Visalia City Council Page 6 of 7 Printed on 8/29/2025
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action is needed to bring levels below thresholds. Since no activity is proposed on the site and since no residential uses are being considered, no mitigation is necessary in response to the letter.

Attachments:

1. Staff Report References - Figure 1, 2, 3

2. Resolution No. 2025-66 - Adopting Initial Study / Negative Declaration No. 2025-28

3. Resolution No. 2025-65 - Adopting General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02

4. Ordinance No. 2025-09 - Adopting Change of Zone No. 2025-03

5. Attachment 1 - Aerial Photo of Subject Site

6. Attachment 2 - Non-Residential Land Use Map

7. Attachment 3 - Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone

8. Attachment 4 - Correspondence from State Department of Toxic Substances Control

9. Attachment 5 - Planning Commission Staff Report from August 11, 2025

10.Attachment 6 - Initial Study / Negative Declaration No. 2025-28

11.General Plan, Land Use, Zoning, and Location Maps
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Surrounding Uses: Figure 1 and Figure 2
General Plan Consistency - Community Park Designation: Figure 3 236
Resolution No. 2025-66
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-66

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VISALIA, ADOPTING NEGATIVE DECLARATION NO. 2025-28, WHICH EVALUATES ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO.
2025-02 AND CHANGE OF ZONE NO. 2025-03
WHEREAS, the project consisting of General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 (hereinafter “Project”) is a request to amend the General Plan land use designation and Zoning designation on one parcel totaling 21 acres and amend the Zoning designation on one parcel totaling 10 acres, resulting in the removal of 16 acres of Parks/Recreation land use designation and Quasi-Public zoning, and the addition of 16 acres of Commercial Mixed Use designation / zoning. The Project is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100-103); and, WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Visalia, following a period of ten (10) days after published notice, held a public hearing before said Council on September 2, 2025; and, WHEREAS, an Initial Study was prepared which disclosed that no significant environmental impacts would result from the Project; and,
WHEREAS, on the basis of this Initial Study, a Negative Declaration has been prepared for the Project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970 (CEQA), as amended; and, WHEREAS, the Initial Study and Negative Declaration for the Project were prepared and noticed for review and comment for 20 days beginning on July 17, 2025, and ending on August 6, 2025; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Visalia received one comment on the Initial Study and Negative Declaration, and determined that the comment letter did not warrant any changes to the Negative Declaration; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Visalia considered the Initial Study and Negative Declaration and found that the Initial Study and Negative Declaration contain and reflect the independent judgment of the City of Visalia.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Initial Study and Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 was prepared consistently with the California Environmental Quality Act and the City of Visalia Environmental Guidelines.
237
Resolution No. 2025-66
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Visalia hereby finds, on the basis of the whole record before it, that there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment and hereby adopts Initial Study and Negative Declaration No. 2025-28. The documents and other material which constitute the record of the proceedings upon which the decisions based are located at the office of the City Planner, 315 East Acequia Avenue, Visalia, California, 93291.

PASSED AND ADOPTED: September 2, 2025 LESLIE B. CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF TULARE ) ss.

CITY OF VISALIA )
I, Leslie B. Caviglia, City Clerk of the City of Visalia, certify the foregoing is the full and true Resolution 2025-66 passed and adopted by the Council of the City of Visalia at a regular meeting held on September 2, 2025.

Dated:September 2, 2025 LESLIE B. CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK
By Reyna Rivera, Chief Deputy City Clerk
238
Resolution No. 2025-65
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-65

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OFTHE CITY OF VISALIA, APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2025-02: A REQUEST BY THE CITY OF VISALIA TO CHANGE THE LAND USE DESIGNATION ON A 16-ACRE PORTION OF A 21- ACRE PARCEL FROM PARKS/RECREATION TO COMMERCIAL MIXED USE. THE SITE IS

LOCATED ON THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF AKERS STREET AND RIGGIN AVENUE, WITHIN THE CITY OF VISALIA, COUNTY OF TULARE (APN: 077-100-103).

WHEREAS, General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 is a request by the City of Visalia to change the land use designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from Parks/Recreation to Commercial Mixed Use. The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100- 103); and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Visalia, after duly published notice, held a public hearing before said Commission on August 11, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Visalia considered the General Plan Amendment in accordance with Section 17.54.060 of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Visalia based on evidence contained in the staff report and testimony presented at the public hearing, and recommended approval of said General Plan Amendment; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Visalia adopted Resolution No. 2025-42 recommending approval of General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02; and, WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Visalia, following a period of ten (10) days after published notice, held a public hearing for General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 on September 2, 2025.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Visalia approves General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02, based on the following specific findings and evidence presented:

1. That the proposed General Plan Amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan, and is not detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.

2. That the proposed General Plan Amendment from 21 acres of Parks/Recreation to 16 acres of Commercial Mixed Use and 5 acres of Parks/Recreation is compatible with adjacent land uses and will not impose new land uses that would adversely affect the subject site or adjacent properties.

3. That the proposed Commercial Mixed Use land use designation under the proposed General Plan Amendment results in the placement of a land use designation that provides an efficient transition from the arterial/arterial roadway intersection to residential, parks/recreation, and public institutional uses surrounding the site. 239
Resolution No. 2025-65

4. That an Initial Study was prepared for the project including the General Plan Amendment, consistent with CEQA, which disclosed that environmental impacts are determined to be not significant, and therefore Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 be adopted for this project.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Visalia approves General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02, as shown on Attachment “A” of this Resolution, on the real property described herein, in accordance with the terms of this resolution and under the provisions of Section 17.54.080 of the Ordinance Code of the City of Visalia.

PASSED AND ADOPTED: September 2, 2025 LESLIE B. CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF TULARE ) ss.

CITY OF VISALIA )
I, Leslie B. Caviglia, City Clerk of the City of Visalia, certify the foregoing is the full and true Resolution 2025-65 passed and adopted by the Council of the City of Visalia at a regular meeting held on September 2, 2025.

Dated:September 2, 2025 LESLIE B. CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK
By Reyna Rivera, Chief Deputy City Clerk
240
Resolution No. 2025-65
ATTACHMENT “A”
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2025-02
Visalia City Council
Resolution No. 2025-65
241
Ordinance No. 2025-09
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-09

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VISALIA APPROVING CHANGE OF ZONE NO. 2025-03: A REQUEST BY THE CITY OF VISALIA TO CHANGE THE ZONING DESIGNATION ON A 16-ACRE PORTION OF A 21-ACRE PARCEL FROM QP (QUASI-PUBLIC) TO C-MU (COMMERCIAL MIXED USE). THE SITE IS LOCATED ON THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF AKERS STREET AND RIGGIN AVENUE, WITHIN THE CITY OF VISALIA, COUNTY OF TULARE (APN:
077-100-103).

WHEREAS, Change of Zone No. 2025-03 is a request by the City of Visalia to change the zoning designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from QP (QuasiPublic) to C-MU (Commercial Mixed Use).The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077- 100-103); and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Visalia, after duly published notice, held a public hearing before said Commission on August 11, 2025; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Visalia considered the Change of Zone in accordance with Section 17.44.070 of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Visalia based on evidence contained in the staff report and testimony presented at the public hearing, and recommended approval of said Change of Zone; and, WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Visalia adopted Resolution No. 2025-43 recommending approval of Change of Zone No. 2025-03; and, WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Visalia, following a period of ten (10) days after published notice, held a public hearing for Change of Zone No. 2025-03 on September 2, 2025.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Visalia approves Change of Zone No. 2025-03, based on the following specific findings and evidence presented:

1. That the Change of Zone is consistent with the intent of the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance, and is not detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.

2. That the proposed Commercial Mixed Use (C-MU) zoning is consistent with the Commercial Mixed Use land use designation and compatible with adjacent land uses.

3. That the proposed Commercial Mixed Use zoning designation under the proposed Change of Zone results in the placement of a zoning designation that provides an efficient transition from the arterial/arterial roadway intersection to residential, parks/recreation, and public institutional uses surrounding the site. 242
Ordinance No. 2025-09

4. That an Initial Study was prepared for the project including the Change of Zone, consistent with CEQA, which disclosed that environmental impacts are determined to be not significant, and therefore Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 be adopted for this project.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Visalia approves Change of Zone No. 2025-03, as shown on Attachment “A” of this Ordinance, on the real property described herein, in accordance with the terms of this ordinance and under the provisions of Section 17.44.090 of the Ordinance Code of the City of Visalia.

PASSED AND ADOPTED: BRETT TAYLOR, MAYOR
ATTEST: ___________________________

LESLIE CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK APPROVED BY CITY ATTORNEY
___________________________

STATE OF CALIFORNIA)
COUNTY OF TULARE ) ss.

CITY OF VISALIA )
I, Leslie Caviglia, City Clerk of the City of Visalia, certify the foregoing is the full and true Ordinance 2025-09 passed and adopted by the Council of the City of Visalia at a regular meeting held on September __, 2025 and certify a summary of this ordinance will be published in the Visalia Times Delta.

Dated: LESLIE CAVIGLIA, CITY CLERK
By Reyna Rivera, Chief Deputy City Clerk
243
Ordinance No. 2025-09
ATTACHMENT “A”

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL

AMENDING THE ZONING MAP AS FOLLOWS
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VISALIA:

Section 1: The Zoning Map is hereby amended as follows:

244
Ordinance No. 2025-09
Section 2: This property and Zoning Map of the City of Visalia is hereby amended to show said property changes.

Section 3: This Ordinance shall take effect thirty days after passage hereof. 245
0 500 1,000
Feet
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 Aerial Photo
N
A
k
e
r
s
S
t
W Riggin Ave
N Roeben St
Crenshaw
Parkwood
Delaware
Sedona
Delaware
Oakwood
Atwood
Flagstaff
Lark
Quincy
Oriole
Crenshaw
Crenshaw
Porter
Robin
Brooke
Pratos
Hilton
Noyes
Atwood
Payson
Parkwood
Delaware
Modoc
Boise
Lark
Wren
Sunnyview
Lark
Oriole
Prescott
Modoc
Wren
Nearmap US
Vicinity Map
Hwy 198
Ben
Maddox
Riggin
Houston
Mineral King
Main
Goshen
St
Jo h ns
DemareeNoble
Caldwell
Mooney
Akers Hwy 99 Shirk
Lovers Lane
Pla
za
Betty
Collector
Local
Minor Arterial
Other
Project Site
The property is located at the northwest corner of N Akers St and W Riggin Ave, within the city limits of Visalia, Tulare County. (APN: 077-100-103).

Commercial Mixed Use.
246
Future Costco Center
Fire Station 55
RV Storage
Key West Center (Save Mart)
Country Club Plaza
Village at Willow Creek Shannon Village Market Orchard Walk Modoc
Basin
Riverway
Sports Park Middle & Future
High School
Attachment 6: Vicinity Map of Non-Residential General Plan Land Uses Blue indicates school & public use sites; Green indicates park sites. 247
Exhibit "A": Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
Updated Through July 2025

USE C-MU
Special Use
Standards
(See
identified
Chapter or
Section)

17.08 A5 Roadside Stands Selling Produce Grown on Site T A6 Animal Day Care Facility P
A8 Auto Leasing/Renting C
A11 Auto Oil, Lube & Smog Test Shops P
A12 Auto Repairs, Major-Overhauling, Rebuilding, Painting C A13 Automotive Supplies, Parts & Accessories P
A16 Car Washing - self service C
A17 Car Washing - automated - Meeting All Standards in Section 17.32.168 P 17.32.168 A18 Car Washing - automated - Not Meeting All Standards in Section

17.32.168 C 17.32.168
A20 Car Sales – New & Used, one (1) to four (4) vehicles on display P A24 Tire Sales & Service (excluding major repairs) – stand alone P A25 Tire Sales & Service (excluding major repairs) – located within the primary permitted use on the site P
B1 Stand-Alone Automatic Teller (ATM) P
B2 Office P
B8 Public & Private Transfer Point C
C1 Catering Services P
C3 Christmas Tree Sales Lots/Other Seasonal Commercial Uses/Special Events T
C4 Up to 200 Seats C
C6 Communications Equipment Building P
C7 Media Studio P
C8 Radio and TV Broadcasting Studios – with antenna off-site P C9 Radio and TV Broadcasting Studios – with antenna on-site C C10 Wireless telecommunication facilities – more than 100 feet away from property planned/zoned residential C 17.32.163
C11 Wireless telecommunication facilities – within 100-ft of property planned/zoned residential C 17.32.163
D1 Adult – 12 or fewer adults P
D2 Adult – 13 or more adults C
D3 Children– 14 or fewer P
D4 Children – 15 or more C
D5 In Conjunction with Primary Use P

AGRICULTURAL - FARMING
AUTOMOTIVE (for gas stations see SERVICE STATIONS)

BANKS & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

DAYCARE, LICENSED

BUS DEPOTS

CHURCHES & OTHER RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS

COMMUNICATIONS
P = Use is Permitted by Right C = Use Requires Conditional Use Permit T = Use Requires Temporary Use Permit 248
Exhibit "A": Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
Updated Through July 2025

DRIVE-THRU LANES
D6 Drive-Thru Lanes Meeting All Standards in Sect. 17.32.162 P 17.32.162 D7 Drive-Thru Lanes Not Meeting All Standards in Sect. 17.32.162 C 17.32.162 E1 Bars/Taverns– within 300 feet of any residence/public use C Bars/Taverns – not within 300 feet of any residence/
public use
E3 Micro-breweries/micro-wineries (with or without restaurants) C 17.63 E4 Craft distilleries C
E5 Cafeterias P
E6 Quick Service/Fast Food Restaurants P
E8 Live Entertainment C 17.04
E9 Sit-Down Restaurant/Café P
E10 EVENT CENTERS C
F1 Florist P
F2 Fortunetelling/Palm Reader P 5.2
F3 Propane/Butane P
F5 Propane/Butane within 50 feet of Planned/zoned Residential C F7 Above Ground Tanks dispensing Class I, II, and III-A liquids– within 100 feet of a residential use or residential zoned property C 17.32.025 F8 Above Ground Tanks dispensing Class I, II, and III-A liquids– more than 100 feet from a residential use or residential zoned property P 17.32.025 F12 Funeral Home/Mortuary C
G1 Galleries– Art/Photography/Crafts P
H1 Home Occupation Businesses P 17.32.030

HOTELS AND MOTELS
H2 Hotels and Motels, located 250 feet or more from an existing residence P H3 Hotels and Motels, located less than 250 feet from an existing residence C K1 Kennels (located 500 feet or more from a residential zone) C L1 Dry Cleaners (cleaning plant) P
L2 Dry Cleaners (cleaning plant including carpet/rug cleaning and dyeing) P L3 Diaper Supply Service P
L4 Linen & Uniform Supply Service P
L5 Self service P
Food & Beverage – Preparation & Bottling/Packaging & Distribution M16 – commercial bakeries C
M17 – commercial kitchens C
M36 Hobby/Craft Manufacturing P
Products Manufactured/Assembled from Previously Prepared Materials M41 – clothing assembly/imprinting P
E2

MANUFACTURING/ASSEMBLING

FUEL STORAGE
C

LAUNDRY/DRY CLEANERS

EATING & DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS
P = Use is Permitted by Right C = Use Requires Conditional Use Permit T = Use Requires Temporary Use Permit 249
Exhibit "A": Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
Updated Through July 2025
M56 Massage Therapist C
(emergency
ordinance)
M58 Ambulance Services/Medical Transport C
M59 Convalescent Hospitals/Senior Care Facilities/Nursing Homes C M60 Clinics P
M61 Dialysis Centers and Blood Donation Centers P
M62 Laboratories (medical testing & diagnostic) P
M63 Medical Equipment/supplies (oxygen, prosthetics, walkers, etc.) P M65 Rehabilitation Hospitals C
General Business and Professional (i.e., data processing services, employment agencies, insurance agencies, etc.)
O1 – less than 2,000 sq. ft. P
O2 – 2,000 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft. P
O3 – more than 6,000 sq. ft. P
O6 Medical P
O7 Professional office with social services P
P1 Parcel Delivery Services/Parcel Distribution (UPS, Federal Express, etc.) P P2 Parking Facilities For Off-Site Uses P 17.34.060
P4 Stand Alone P
P5 Located within the Primary Permitted Use on the Site P P6 Tattooist P
P7 With Printing Press C
P8 Without Printing Press P
P9 Photography Studio P
P10 Photography Labs/Blue Printing/Microfilming (developing, printing – no retail on site) P
P11 Photography labs (developing, printing – no retail on site) P P12 Photography Labs with Retail on Site P
P13 Planned Unit Developments C 17.26
P14 Private Clubs and Lodges C 17.32.115
P16 Community & Recreation Centers C
P17 Community Gardens C
P18 Fire Stations P
P19 Police Stations & Substations P
P20 Post Offices P
P21 Public Buildings, Offices & Grounds C
P22 Public Libraries C
P23 Public Parks/Playgrounds C

PHOTOGRAPHY/PHOTO SERVICES

PUBLIC COMMUNITY SERVICES
MEDICAL FACILITIES/SERVICES (for medical/dental offices see OFFICES)

OFFICES

PERSONAL SERVICES

PHOTOCOPY SERVICES/DESKTOP PUBLISHING
P = Use is Permitted by Right C = Use Requires Conditional Use Permit T = Use Requires Temporary Use Permit 250
Exhibit "A": Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
Updated Through July 2025
P24 Post Office Substations P
R3 Athletic and Health Clubs (gymnasiums, fitness centers, racquet clubs) P R4 Athletic and Health Clubs (gymnasiums, fitness centers, racquet clubs) less than 5,000 sq. ft. P
R5 Aquatic Centers C
R6 Athletic/Playing Fields C
R7 Bowling Alleys P
R8 Circus, Carnivals, Fairs & Festivals, Revivals/Assemblies T R9 Dance, Yoga & Music Studios P
R10 Escape Rooms P
R11 Martial Arts P
R12 Golf Courses & Driving Ranges C
R13 Miniature Golf Courses C
R14 Ice & Roller Skating Rinks P
R15 Indoor Playgrounds and Trampoline Parks P
R16 Indoor Amusement Facilities C
R17 Pool Halls/Billiard Parlors P
R18 Video Machines/Coin-Operated Games – 1 to 4 machines P 17.32.120 R19 Video Arcade P 17.32.120
R20 Other Recreational Facilities C
R21 Rifle and Pistol Range, indoor C
R25 Small Collection C 17.32.160
R26 Reverse Vending Machines P 17.32.160
R28 Residential Units, New or Expansions, which may or may not be associated with a commercial activity C
R30 Existing single-family dwelling P
R36 Residential Unit Reoccupation P
R37 Low Barrier Navigation Centers P*/C 17.32.135
R38
Transitional Housing and Supportive Housing as those terms are defined in Section 17.04.030
P*/C
R39 Senior Citizen Residential Developments C
R40 Accessory Dwelling Units C 17.12 Article 2
R41 Employee Housing C
General Merchandise
R42 – less than 4,000 sq. ft. P
R43 – 4,000 to 6,000 sq. ft. P
R44 – 6,001 to 40,000 sq. ft. P
R45 – 40,001 to 60,000 sq. ft. P 17.32.050
R46 – over 60,000 sq. ft. C
RETAIL

RECREATION FACILITIES

RECYCLING FACILITIES
RESIDENTIAL (see also Residential Zones)
P = Use is Permitted by Right C = Use Requires Conditional Use Permit T = Use Requires Temporary Use Permit 251
Exhibit "A": Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
Updated Through July 2025
R48 Garden Centers/Nurseries – located within primary use P R49 Garden Centers/Nurseries – stand alone C
R50 Glass Stores (windows, etc. for auto, residential, commercial) P R51 Home Improvement P
Drugstore/Pharmacy

17.32.050

17.32.055
R53 – not including general retail merchandise, 1,500 sq. ft. or more P R54 – not including general retail merchandise, up to 1,500 sq. ft. P R56 Feed Stores C
Food Stores
R57 – convenience store P
R58 – liquor store within 300 feet of residential/public use C R59 – liquor store not within 300 feet of residential/public use C R60 – specialty food stores (bakery, delicatessen, butcher shop, meat market, health food, gourmet/imported food, etc.) P 17.32.050
R61 – supermarkets/grocery stores P 17.32.050
R62 – wine tasting with sales C
R63 Furniture & Furnishings – new P
R64 Furniture & Furnishings– secondhand *up to 10,000 square feet P R65 Gun Shops – within primary use P
R66 Gun Shops – stand alone P
Magazine/Newspaper Sales (Freestanding Booth/Stand/
Kiosk)
R67 – indoor P
R68 – outdoor C
R69 Pawnshops C
R70 Pet Stores P 17.32.050
R71 Pool/Spa Supplies/Equipment P 17.32.050
R72 Smoke Shops (retail of cigarettes and smoke devices/paraphernalia) C 17.32.165 S1 Preschool/After-School Care C
S2 Elementary Schools, K-6 or K-8 C
S3 Middle Schools C
S4 High Schools C
S5 Colleges/Universities (academic) C
S6 Vocational or other Specialized Schools - Non-industrial trades C S7 Vocational or other Specialized Schools - Industrial trades C S8 After Hours Academic Education Facilities (After 6:00 p.m.) C S9 Tutoring Centers P
S11 Appliance, Electrical Equipment, Tools (disassemble & repair) P S12 Check-Cashing Service P
SCHOOLS, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE (see also Quasi-Public and Residential Zones)

SERVICE, COMMERCIAL
R52 – including general retail merchandise P
P = Use is Permitted by Right C = Use Requires Conditional Use Permit T = Use Requires Temporary Use Permit 252
Exhibit "A": Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
Updated Through July 2025
S15 Courier Services P
S17 Bail Bonds P
S18 Equipment Rental – conducted outdoors C
S19 Equipment Rental – conducted indoors P
S21 Gunsmith Shops, including incidental retail P
S25 Locksmiths P
S27 Pet Grooming/Dog Training (conducted indoors) P
S30 Sharpening Service – small tools not including saw blades and lawn mowers
P
S31 Sheltered Workshops C
S32 Shoe Repair Shops P
S35 Tailor, Dressmaking, & Alterations P
S36 Upholstering Shops (furniture only) P
S38 Fuel dispensing only – not including major auto repair services of any kind C S39 Also including major auto repair services C
T1 Taxi/Limousine Service P
T3 Drive-in C
T4 Movie C
T5 Live Performance C
U3 Business Offices P
U4 Electric Distribution Substations C
U5 Elevated Pressure Tanks P
U6 Gas Regulator Stations C
U7 Public Service Pumping Stations C
U8 Payment Centers P
U9 Public Utility Service Yards C
V1 Animal Hospitals (no boarding) P
V2 Animal Hospitals (including short term boarding of animals) C W3 – not to exceed 20% of gross floor area of permitted use P W4 – in excess of 20% of gross floor area of permitted use C W5 Mini Storage Facilities C
OT1 Other Uses Similar in Nature and Intensity as Determined by the City Planner P
OT2 Other Uses Similar in Nature and Intensity as Determined by the City Planner Subject to the Granting of a Conditional Use Permit C OTHER

UTILITIES

VETERINARY SERVICES

WAREHOUSING STORAGE

SERVICE STATIONS

THEATERS
P = Use is Permitted by Right C = Use Requires Conditional Use Permit T = Use Requires Temporary Use Permit 253
dtsc.ca.gov
SENT VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
July 18, 2025
Brandon Smith
Principal Planner
City of Visalia
315 East Acequia Avenue
Visalia, CA 93291
[email protected]
RE: NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 202502 AND CHANGE OF ZONE NO. 202503 DATED JULY 17, 2025, STATE CLEARINGHOUSE # 2025070724
Dear Brandon Smith,
The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) reviewed the Negative Declaration (ND) for General Plan Amendment No. 202502 and Change of Zone No. 202503 (Project). The proposed Project will establish a new General Plan land use designation and zoning designation of Commercial Mixed Use on approximately 16 acres, on portions of the property facing the frontages of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue. The Project site occupies 20.88 gross acres of undeveloped land, which is seasonally improved for agricultural uses (i.e., row crops). Currently, the Project only affects the land use and zoning designations. No development is proposed in correlation with the Project.

DTSC recommends and requests consideration of the following comment:

When agricultural crops and/or land uses are proposed or rezoned for residential use, several contaminants of concern (COCs) can be present. The Lead Agency shall identify the amounts of Pesticides and Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs) historically used on the property. If present, OCPs requiring further analysis are dichlorodiphenyl254 Brandon Smith
July 18, 2025

Page 2 ends

trichloroethane, toxaphene, and dieldrin. Additionally, any level of arsenic present would require further analysis and sampling and must meet approved local area baselines or thresholds. If they do not, remedial action must take place to mitigate them below those thresholds. Additional COCs may be found in mixing/loading/storage areas, drainage ditches, farmhouses, or any other outbuildings and should be sampled and analyzed. If smudge pots had been routinely utilized, additional sampling for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and/or Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons may be required. Please refer to the DTSC’s Human and Ecological Risk Office (HERO) webpage for the most recent guidance and screening levels.

DTSC would like to thank you for the opportunity to comment on the ND for General Plan Amendment No. 202502 and Change of Zone No. 202503 Project. Thank you for your assistance in protecting California’s people and environment from the harmful effects of toxic substances. If you have any questions or would like clarification on DTSC’s comments, please respond to this letter or via our CEQA Review email for additional guidance.

Sincerely,
Dave Kereazis
Associate Environmental Planner
HWMPPermitting Division – CEQA Unit
Department of Toxic Substances Control
[email protected]
255
Brandon Smith
July 18, 2025

Page 3 ends

cc: (via email)
Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation
State Clearinghouse
[email protected]
Tamara Purvis
Associate Environmental Planner
HWMP Permitting Division – CEQA Unit
Department of Toxic Substances Control
[email protected]
Scott Wiley
Associate Governmental Program Analyst
HWMP Permitting Division – CEQA Unit
Department of Toxic Substances Control
[email protected]
256

REPORT TO CITY OF VISALIA PLANNING COMMISSION
HEARING DATE: August 11, 2025
PROJECT PLANNER: Brandon Smith, Principal Planner
Phone: (559) 713-4636
Email: [email protected]
SUBJECT: General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02: A request by the City of Visalia to change the land use designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from Parks/Recreation to Commercial Mixed Use.

Change of Zone No. 2025-03: A request by the City of Visalia to change the zoning designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from QP (Quasi-Public) to C-MU (Commercial Mixed Use).

Location: The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100-103).

STAFF RECOMMENDATION
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02: Staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend that the Visalia City Council approve General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02, based on the findings in Resolution No. 2025-42. Staff’s recommendation is based on the conclusion that the request is consistent with the Visalia General Plan and Zoning Ordinance.

Change of Zone No. 2025-03: Staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend that the Visalia City Council approve Change of Zone No. 2025-03, based on the findings in Resolution No. 2025-43. Staff’s recommendation is based on the conclusion that the request is consistent with the Visalia General Plan and Zoning Ordinance.

RECOMMENDED MOTION
I move to recommend approval of General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02, based on the findings in Resolution No. 2025-42.

I move to recommend approval of Change of Zone No. 2025-03, based on the findings in Resolution No. 2025-43.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 together are a request by the City of Visalia to change the general plan land use and zoning designations of 16 acres from Parks/Recreation land use (QP zone) to Commercial Mixed Use (C-MU zone), as shown in the attachment to each entitlement’s respective resolution. The 16 acres are part of an overall 21-acre undeveloped parcel located on the northwest corner of North Akers Street and West Riggin Avenue (see attached aerial map).

The reclassification of land use and zoning designations is based upon the recommendation of the City Council upon the conclusion of four work session discussions held between January 16, 2020 and August 19, 2024. The site has always held the general plan land use and zoning designation of Parks/Recreation / QP zone since the property’s annexation in 2010. 257
Visalia Unified School District sold the site to the City of Visalia in 2014 and has retained property to the north for development of a middle school and future high school. Visalia’s General Plan, adopted in 2014, illustrates this site in a Parks/Facilities Map as a potential location for a new community park serving the northwest quadrant. General Plan Policy PSCUP-5 more explicitly calls for the creation of a new community park to be built in and to serve the northwest quadrant.

Over the course of the four work sessions held to discuss land uses on the site, City staff suggested that the City-owned property at Akers & Riggin may be better suited for a land use other than Parks/Recreation given its location at a major intersection, with speculation towards a commercial designation. Under the proposed GPA/COZ, a community park could still be developed on the remaining 5-acre portion of the site, or be developed on a different site in the northwest quadrant. Staff presented viable non-residential land use alternatives to the Council at the work sessions. Between the times that the four work sessions were held, the Carleton Acres Specific Plan was drafted and adopted in 2023, solidifying a new commercial land use designation further to the west.

Based upon the August 19, 2024 work session, the City Council recommended a 4-1 vote in favor of changing the designation to 16 acres out of the 21-acre parcel toward Commercial Mixed Use, and retaining 5 acres on the northwest portion of the parcels for potential park use.

The proposed project only changes the land use and zoning designations associated with the parcel. No development is being proposed or is planned in correlation with the project at this time. The City Council’s direction to staff from the work session meeting was to also prepare and release a Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit potential land developers to submit design proposals for this site, and to hold a future meeting to discuss design stipulations and use limitations on the site. These latter actions will be forthcoming .

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
General Plan Land Use Designation Parks / Recreation
Zoning QP (Quasi Public)
Surrounding Zoning and Land Use North: QP / Ridgeview Middle School South: R-1-20 (Single-Family Residential, 20,000 sq.
ft. minimum site area) / Neighborhood Church
East: R-M-2 (Multi-family Residential, one unit per
3,000 sq. ft. site area) / Apartment-style
residences (Reserve at Ritchie Ranch)
West: R-M-3 (Multi-family Residential, one unit per
1,200 sq. ft. site area) / Vacant land with
pending multi-family development application
Environmental Review: Initial Study / Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 Site Plan: N/A

RELATED PLANS & POLICIES
See attachment pertaining to General Plan policies and Municipal Code sections pertaining to the project site.
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RELATED PROJECTS
There are no other projects that are related to this project site.

PROJECT EVALUATION
Staff supports the requested General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone based on project consistency with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance.

Surrounding Uses
To the north, on the north side of the Sedona Avenue alignment, a 103-acre parcel owned by Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) contains Ridgeview Middle School and land for a future high school campus.

Figure 1: Existing Land Use Designations Figure 2: Existing Zone Districts 259
General Plan Consistency
Community Park Designation
General Plan Policy PSCU-P-5 calls for the creation of a new community park to be built in and to serve the northwest quadrant. The policy generally states that the park shall be in the northwest, and the facility map shown as Figure 5-1 identifies the 21-acre site as the potential location of the community park (see Figure 3 below).

The community park would be different from Riverway Sports Park, located 2.5 miles to the east. The 83-acre Riverway Sports Park is considered a “large city park” that serves the greater Visalia area and contains several playing fields; however, it contains no community center or multi-use courts. The community park would also be larger in scale than neighborhood parks found throughout the City – the closest being Lions and Soroptimist Parks located one mile southwest or southeast from the site.

Figure 3: General Plan Parks Facilities Map
Subject Site
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Within the City’s northwest quadrant, there are two other undeveloped Park land use designations that could facilitate a community park. These sites are 15 acres near the northeast corner of Demaree Street & Pratt Avenue and 10 acres fronting the future Riverway Avenue extension north of Modoc Basin. Both sites are visible in Figure 3 above. Both designated sites could facilitate the northwest quadrant’s community park based on their acreage. There is a potential opportunity for the City to purchase the Demaree & Pratt land based on early preliminary discussions with a property owner in that area seeking to develop their property that has a park land use designation of equivalent acreage. There have been no discussions regarding the 10 acres of park designated land fronting the future Riverway Avenue extension north of Modoc Basin.

Exhibit “B”, attached to this report, illustrates non-residential land use designations in the surrounding vicinity.

Land Use Element/General Plan/Zoning
Land Use Policy LU-P-66 states that the Commercial Mixed Use land use designation allows for either horizontal or vertical mixed use development and a range of commercial, service, office, and residential uses. Commercial uses must be allowed for in a development, while residential uses may or may not be part of a development. The Zoning Ordinance further states, in Section

17.19.010, that the mixed use commercial zone district may permit development at both at key activity nodes and along corridors. There is no further locational criteria regarding Commercial Mixed Use elsewhere in the City.

The C-MU designation provides for the widest range of possible non-residential land use alternatives: commercial, retail, restaurant, professional and medical office uses, or residential as a stand-alone or mixed use. A full summary of all allowed land uses (permitted and conditionally permitted) in the C-MU zone is provided in Exhibit “A”. 261
Potential Design Considerations and Future Request for Proposal (RFP) Process If the City Council approves the proposed GPA / COZ, staff intends to prepare and circulate a Request for Proposal to solicit potential land developers to submit design proposals for this site that demonstrate the Council’s desire to have a superior development design and layout for this site. The RFP process would spell out expectations of the development to embody a welldesigned and attractive development with a high likelihood of success that will be compatible with and serve the school population as well as the surrounding community. The RFP would address the developer’s responsibility to process the necessary Planning entitlement applications (if applicable) and CEQA environmental analysis for the alternative land use.

Environmental Review
An Initial Study and Negative Declaration were prepared for the proposed project. This environmental review was prepared for the proposed General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone only and does not consider any environmental impacts regarding any future development, as such development would also be subject to separate environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) once details of the development are known.

Initial Study and Negative Declaration No. 2025-28, prepared in accordance with CEQA Guidelines, disclosed that environmental impacts are determined to be not significant. Staff concludes that Initial Study and Negative Declaration No. 2025-28 adequately analyzes and addresses the proposed project and concludes that environmental impacts related to this project will be at a level that is less than significant.

During the public comment period for the Negative Declaration, one comment letter was received by the State Department of Toxic Substances Control (see Exhibit “C”). The letter recommends that in instances where land is proposed to be rezoned to residential use, that the lead agency shall identify certain pesticide materials as described in the letter, which would determine if any remedial action is needed to bring levels below thresholds. Since no activity is proposed on the site and since no residential uses are being considered, no mitigation is necessary in response to the letter.

RECOMMENDED FINDINGS
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02

Change of Zone No. 2025-03

2. That the proposed Commercial Mixed Use (C-MU) zoning is consistent with the Commercial Mixed Use land use designation and compatible with adjacent land uses.

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 There are no recommended conditions of approval for the General Plan Amendment or the Change of Zone.

APPEAL INFORMATION
General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 For General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03, the Visalia Planning Commission’s recommendations are advisory only and will be forwarded to the Visalia City Council. The final decision on these matters will be made by the Visalia City Council during a public hearing. Therefore, the Planning Commission’s recommendations for the General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone are not appealable.
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Attachments:
• Related Plans and Policies
• Resolution No. 2025-42 (General Plan Amendment)
• Resolution No. 2025-43 (Change of Zone)
• Exhibit “A” – Uses Allowed in the C-MU Zone
• Exhibit “B” – Non Residential Land Use Map
• Exhibit “C” – Correspondence from State Department of Toxic Substances Control • Initial Study / Negative Declaration
• General Plan Land Use Map
• Zoning Map
• Aerial Map
• Location Map
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RELATED PLANS AND POLICIES

VISALIA GENERAL PLAN
Land Use Element
LU-O-22 Create inclusive, compact neighborhoods with well-integrated single-family and multifamily residential development and activity nodes featuring schools, neighborhood parks, and neighborhood commercial areas.

LU-P-66 Update the Zoning Ordinance to reflect the Commercial Mixed Use designation on the Land Use Diagram, to allow for either horizontal or vertical mixed use development and a range of commercial, service, office, and residential uses.

New development in Commercial Mixed Use Areas should have an FAR of at least 0.4 and up to 1.0 for commercial space. If residential uses are included, density may be up to 35 dwelling units per gross acre. Commercial development must be part of all new development in the Commercial Mixed Use district.

LU-P-108 Designate land for Public/Institutional uses on the Land Use Diagram, including City Hall and other City buildings, County and other government buildings, schools, colleges and universities, hospitals, police and fire stations, the Municipal Airport, and waste management facilities.

LU-P-109 Facilitate the creation of mixed-use activity centers on and adjacent to the College of the Sequoias campus and on other land designated for public/institutional uses by locating commercial and mixed land use areas adjacent to existing or planned public facilities, and by allowing mixed uses to be developed on Public/Institutional land through a master planning process.

Parks, Schools, Community Facilities, and Utilities Element PSCU-P-5 Create new community parks in the Northwest, Southwest, and Southeast quadrants, consistent with the Parks and Open Space diagram and the following planning guidelines:
• Size: 5-12 acres or more; and
• Facilities to be provided: large children’s play area, reserved picnic facilities, open play fields, community building, bicycle parking, and offstreet parking. They also may include tennis courts, outdoor concert areas or other special facilities based on neighborhood needs and community input.

Community parks provide spacious areas for passive enjoyment or group gatherings, special attractions, and recreation facilities, including sports fields and swimming pools.

A “heritage farm” and a habitat preserve are examples of special facilities that could be incorporated into community parks.

PSCU-P-16 Provide at least one community center in each of the City’s four neighborhood quadrants. Use existing and new community center facilities to provide multicultural programs and teen recreation activities, and provide space for meetings and classes.

Community centers should be designed with community input, including guidance from a cross-section of user groups.

Visalia currently operates five community centers as well as the Visalia Senior Center; none are in the City’s Northwest or Southwest quadrants. 265
VISALIA MUNCIPAL CODE – TITLE 17 (ZONING)
Zoning Ordinance Chapter 17.19 – MIXED USE ZONES

17.19.010 Purpose and intent.

A. The several types of mixed zones included in this chapter are designed to achieve the following:

1. Encourage a wide mix of commercial, service, office, and residential land uses in horizontal or vertical mixed use development projects, or on adjacent lots, at key activity nodes and along corridors.

2. Maintain Visalia's downtown Conyer Street to Tipton and Murray Street to Mineral King Avenue including the Court-Locust corridor to the Lincoln Oval area) as the traditional, medical, professional, retail, government and cultural center;

3. Provide zone districts that encourage and maintain vibrant, walkable environments.

B. The purposes of the individual mixed use zones are as follows:

1. Mixed Use Commercial Zone—(C-MU). The purpose and intent of the mixed use commercial zone district is to allow for either horizontal or vertical mixed use development, and permit commercial, service, office, and residential uses at both at key activity nodes and along corridors. Any combination of these uses, including a single use, is permitted.

2. Mixed Use Downtown Zone—(D-MU). The purpose and intent of the mixed use downtown zone district is to promote the continued vitality of the core of the community by providing for the continuing commercial development of the downtown and maintaining and enhancing its historic character. The zone is designed to accommodate a wide mix of land uses ranging from commercial and office to residential and public spaces, both active and passive. The zone is intended to be compatible with and support adjacent residential uses, along with meeting the needs of the city and region as the urban center of the city; to provide for neighborhood, local, and regional commercial and office needs; to accommodate the changing needs of transportation and integrate new modes of transportation and related facilities; and to maintain and enhance the historic character of the city through the application of architectural design features that complement the existing historic core of the city. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.19.015 Applicability.

The requirements in this chapter shall apply to all property within the C-MU and D-MU zone districts. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.19.020 Permitted uses.

Permitted uses in C-MU and D-MU zones shall be determined by Table 17.25.030 in Section

17.25.030. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.19.030 Conditional and temporary uses.

Conditional and temporary uses in the C-MU and D-MU zones shall be determined by Table 17.25.030 in Section 17.25.030. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.19.040 Required conditions.

A. A site plan review permit must be obtained for any development in any C-MU and D-MU zones, subject to the requirements and procedures in Chapter 17.28.

B. All businesses, services and processes shall be conducted entirely within a completely enclosed structure, except for off-street parking and loading areas, gasoline service stations, outdoor dining areas, nurseries, garden shops, Christmas tree sales lots, bus depots and transit stations, electric distribution substation, and recycling facilities;
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C. All products produced on the site of any of the permitted uses shall be sold primarily at retail on the site where produced. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.19.050 Off-street parking and loading facilities.

Off-street parking and off-street loading facilities shall be provided as prescribed in Chapter 17.34. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.19.060 Development standards in the C-MU zones outside the downtown area.

The following development standards shall apply to property located in the C-MU zone and located outside the Downtown Area, which is defined as the area that is south of Murray Avenue, west of Ben Maddox Way, north of Mineral King Avenue, and east of Conyer Street:

A. Minimum site area: five (5) acres.

B. Maximum building height: fifty (50) feet.

C. Minimum required yards (building setbacks):

1. Front: fifteen (15) feet;

2. Rear: zero (0) feet;

3. Rear yards abutting an R-1 or R-M zone district: fifteen (15) feet;

4. Side: zero (0) feet;

5. Side yards abutting an R-1 or R-M zone district: fifteen (15) feet;

6. Street side yard on corner lot: ten (10) feet.

D. Minimum required landscaped yard (setback) areas:

1. Front: fifteen (15) feet;

2. Rear: five (5) feet;

3. Rear yards abutting an R-1 or R-M zone district: five (5) feet;

4. Side: five (5) feet (except where a building is located on side property line);

5. Side yards abutting an R-1 or R-M zone district: five (5) feet;

6. Street side on corner lot: ten (10) feet.

E. The provisions of Chapter 17.58 shall also be met, if applicable. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017) Zoning Ordinance Chapter 17.52 – QUASI-PUBLIC ZONE

17.52.010 Purpose and intent.

The purpose and intent of the quasi-public zone is to provide a zone that is intended to allow for the location of institutional, academic, community service, governmental, and nonprofit uses. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017: Ord. 9717 § 2 (part), 1997: prior code § 7630)

17.52.015 Applicability.

The requirements in this chapter shall apply to all property within the QP zone district. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017)

17.52.020 Permitted uses.

Permitted uses in the quasi-public zone include public uses of an administrative, recreational, public service or cultural type including city, county, state or federal administrative centers and courts, libraries, 267
museums, art galleries, police and fire stations and other public building, structures and facilities; public playgrounds, parks and community centers. Permitted uses also include wireless telecommunication facilities on parcels that are a minimum of five (5) acres, subject to the requirements of Section

17.32.163 (Regulation of Wireless Telecommunication Facilities) of the Visalia Zoning Ordinance. The keeping of household pets, subject to the definition of household pets set forth in Section 17.04.030.

Other uses similar in nature and intensity as determined by the city planner. (Ord. 2017-01 (part), 2017:

Ord. 2015-01 § 3 (part), 2015: Ord. 9717 § 2 (part), 1997: Ord. 9605 § 30 (part), 1996: prior code § 7631)

17.52.030 Conditional uses.

Conditional uses in the quasi-public zone include:

A. Public and quasi-public uses of an education or religious type including public and parochial elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools and colleges; nursery schools, licensed day care facilities for more than fourteen (14) children; churches, parsonages and other religious institutions; B. Public and private charitable institutions, general hospitals, sanitariums, nursing and convalescent homes, senior care facilities, senior housing; not including specialized hospitals, sanitariums, or nursing, rest and convalescent homes including care for acute psychiatric, drug addiction or alcoholism cases; C. Ambulance service;
D. Electric distribution substations;
E. Gas regulator stations;
F. Public service pumping stations;
G. Communications equipment buildings;
H. Wireless telecommunication facilities on parcels that are a less than five (5) acres subject to the Section 17.32.163 of the Visalia Zoning Ordinance;
I. Residential development specifically designed for senior housing; J. Other uses similar in nature and intensity as determined by the city planner.

J. Emergency shelters, subject to Section 17.32.130;
K. Low barrier navigation centers, subject to Section 17.32.135; L. Other uses similar in nature and intensity as determined by the city planner. 268
Environmental Document No. 2025-28
City of Visalia Planning & Community Preservation Department

NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Project Title: General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 Project Description: General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 is a request by the City of Visalia to change the land use designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from Parks/Recreation to Commercial Mixed Use. Change of Zone No. 2025-03 is a request by the City of Visalia to change the zoning designation on a 16-acre portion of a 21-acre parcel from QP (Quasi-Public) to C-MU (Commercial Mixed Use).

Project Location: The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100-103).

Project Facts: Refer to Initial Study for project facts, plans and policies, and discussion of environmental effects.

Attachments: Initial Study (X)
Environmental Checklist (X)
Maps (X)
DECLARATION OF NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECT:

This project will not have a significant effect on the environment for the following reasons:
(a) The project does not have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below selfsustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory.
(b) The project does not have the potential to achieve short-term environmental goals to the disadvantage of long-term environmental goals.
(c) The project does not have environmental effects which are individually limited but cumulatively considerable. Cumulatively considerable means that the incremental effects of an individual project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects. (d) The environmental effects of the project will not cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly.

This Negative Declaration has been prepared by the City of Visalia Planning Division in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970, as amended. A copy may be obtained from the City of Visalia Planning Division Staff during normal business hours.

APPROVED
Brandon Smith, AICP
Environmental Coordinator
By: ______________________________
Date Approved: July 14, 2025
Review Period: 20 days
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City of Visalia Community Development

INITIAL STUDY
I. GENERAL
A. Description of the Project:

General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02, described as a request by the City of Visalia to change the land use designation on a 16-acre portion of an approximately 21-acre parcel from Parks/Recreation to Commercial Mixed Use; together with Change of Zone No. 2025-03, described as a request by the City of Visalia to change the zoning designation on a 16-acre portion of an approximately 21-acre parcel from QP (Quasi-Public) to C-MU (Commercial Mixed Use). The site is located on the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue, within the City of Visalia, County of Tulare (APN: 077-100-103).

The proposed Project consists of a General Plan Amendment (GPA) and a corresponding Change of Zone (COZ) within the subject property (APN: 077-100-103), located within the city limits of the City of Visalia. The Project site occupies 20.88 gross acres of undeveloped land, which is seasonally improved for agricultural uses (i.e., row crops).

Currently, the entire 20.88 acres of the Project site has a General Plan land use designation of Parks/Recreation and a Zoning designation of Quasi-Public (QP). The proposed GPA and COZ will establish a new General Plan land use designation and Zoning designation of Commercial Mixed Use (C-MU) on approximately 16 acres, on portions of the property facing the frontages of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue. The proposed GPA and COZ will leave approximately 5 acres with a General Plan land use designation of Parks/Recreation and a Zoning designation of Quasi-Public (QP), generally located on the northwest portion of the Project site.

Currently, the project only affects the land use and zoning designations. No development is proposed in correlation with the Project.

B. Identification of the Environmental Setting:

The project is located at the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue. The parcel consists of undeveloped land, which is which is seasonally improved for agricultural uses (i.e., row crops). A man made canal, Modoc Ditch, is in the center of the site and runs in an east-west direction. The site is bounded by West Sedona Avenue to the north, North Akers Street to the east, and West Riggin Avenue to the south.

The surrounding uses, Zoning, and General Plan for the project area are as follows:

General Plan Zoning Existing uses
North: Public Institutional QP (Quasi-Public) Ridgeview Middle School South: Residential Very Low
Density
R-1-20 (SingleFamily Residential,
minimum lot size
20,000 square feet)
Neighborhood Church campus
East: Residential Medium
Density
R-M-2 (Multi-Family
Residential, 3,000 sq.
ft. minimum site area)
Residential apartment complex, under
construction
West: Residential High
Density
R-M-3 (Multi-Family
Residential, 1,200 sq.
ft. minimum site area)
Vanant land seasonally improved for
agricultural uses (i.e., row crops)
Fire and police protection services, street maintenance of public streets, refuse collection, and wastewater treatment will be provided by the City of Visalia upon the development of the project area. 270
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C. Plans and Policies: The General Plan Land Use Diagram designates the site as Parks / Recreation.

The site is zoned Quasi-Public (QP). The Project consists of the conversion of a portion of the site to a General Plan land use designation and Zoning designation of Commercial Mixed Use (C-MU). No development is proposed at this time for the portion of project area to be zoned for Commercial Mixed Use, and there is no inconsistency with plans and policies related to this designation.

II. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
No significant adverse environmental impacts have been identified for this project. The City of Visalia Land Use Element and Zoning Ordinance contain policies and regulations that are designed to reduce and/or eliminate impacts to a level of non-significance.

III. MITIGATION MEASURES
There are no mitigation measures for this project.

IV. PROJECT COMPATIBILITY WITH EXISTING ZONES AND PLANS The project is compatible with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance as the project relates to surrounding properties.

V. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION
The following documents are hereby incorporated into this Negative Declaration and Initial Study by reference:
• Visalia General Plan Update. Dyett & Bhatia, October 2014. • Visalia City Council Resolution No. 2014-38 (Certifying the Visalia General Plan Update) passed and adopted October 14, 2014.
• Visalia General Plan Update Final Environmental Impact Report (SCH No. 2010041078). Dyett & Bhatia, June 2014.
• Visalia General Plan Update Draft Environmental Impact Report (SCH No. 2010041078). Dyett & Bhatia, March 2014.
• Visalia City Council Resolution No. 2014-37 (Certifying the EIR for the Visalia General Plan Update) passed and adopted October 14, 2014.
• Visalia Municipal Code, including Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance). • California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines.
• City of Visalia, California, Climate Action Plan, Draft Final. Strategic Energy Innovations, December 2013.
• Visalia City Council Resolution No. 2014-36 (Certifying the Visalia Climate Action Plan) passed and adopted October 14, 2014.
• City of Visalia Storm Water Master Plan. Boyle Engineering Corporation, September 1994. • City of Visalia Sanitary Sewer Master Plan. City of Visalia, 1994. • City of Visalia Zoning Ordinance Update. City of Visalia, March 2017. • Tulare County Important Farmland 2018 Map. California Department of Conservation, 2018. • City of Visalia VMT Thresholds and Implementation Guidelines. LSA, 2021. Together with City of Visalia VMT Screening Application. https://gis1.lsa.net/visaliaVMT/ 271
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VII. NAME OF PERSON WHO PREPARED INITIAL STUDY
__________________________
Brandon Smith, AICP Brandon Smith, AICP
Principal Planner Environmental Coordinator
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INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
& EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

NAME OF
PROPONENTS:

City of Visalia NAME OF AGENT: None
Address of
Proponents:
315 East Acequia Avenue,
Visalia, CA 93291
Address of Agent:

Telephone
Numbers:
(559) 713-4359 Telephone Number:

Date of Review July 14, 2025 Lead Agency: City of Visalia The following checklist is used to determine if the proposed project could potentially have a significant effect on the environment. Explanations and information regarding each question follow the checklist. 1 = No Impact 2 = Less Than Significant Impact
3 = Less Than Significant Impact with Mitigation Incorporated 4 = Potentially Significant Impact I. AESTHETICS
Except as provided in Public Resources Code Section 21099, would the project:
1 a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? 1 b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway?
1 c) In nonurbanized areas, substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of public views of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are those that are experienced from publicly accessible vantage point). If the project is in an urbanized area, would the project conflict with applicable zoning and other regulations governing scenic quality? 1 d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area?
a) The Project consists of a GPA and COZ that would affect two land use categories and corresponding zoning districts on the subject property. Such policy change will have no impact on scenic vistas, because no development is proposed. In the future, development proposed on the Project site will be required to undergo CEQA review which would address potential impacts on scenic vistas. The City of Visalia General Plan includes policies that promote new developments that are compatible and consistent with the natural and built environment and set forth design guidelines that define the unique character of Visalia. Furthermore, the City of Visalia Zoning Ordinance contains standards for setbacks, landscaping, and height requirements. The Sierra Nevada Mountain range may be considered a scenic vista; however, the view will not be adversely impacted by the project.
b) The project consists of a GPA and COZ that would affect two land use categories and corresponding zoning districts on the subject property. Such policy change will have no impact on scenic resources, because none occur on the site. There are no state scenic highways adjacent to the site.

Name of Proposal General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 273
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c) The project site is located within an urbanized area and the City has development standards related to landscaping and other amenities that will ensure that the visual character of the area is enhanced and not degraded upon any future development. Thus, the project would not substantially degrade the existing visual character of the site and its surroundings.

The Project consists of a GPA and COZ that would affect two land use categories and corresponding zoning districts on the subject property. Such policy change will have no impact on visual character or public views, because no development will occur. In addition, the GPA and COZ would change the acreage of Parks / Recreation lands on the site and would establish Commercial Mixed Use lands on the site. The establishment of Commercial land uses on the site is consistent with the character of other intersections of two arterial streets throughout the City, where it is common to have a commercial land use of at least five acres in size. d) The Project consists of a GPA and COZ which will impact allowed land uses on the site, resulting in an increase in Commercial land, and a decrease in Parks / Recreation land. This modification of the General Plan and Zoning maps will have no impact on light and glare, because no development will occur.

The City has development standards that require light to be directed and/or shielded so it does not fall upon adjacent properties.

II. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES
In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state’s inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment project; and forest carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources Board. Would the project:
2 a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency to non-agricultural use? 1 b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? 1 c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g))?
1 d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use? 1 e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to nonagricultural use or conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
a) The project is located on property that is identified as Prime Farmland on maps prepared by the California Department of Conservation, and will involve the conversion of the property to nonagricultural use. 274
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City of Visalia Community Development
The City of Visalia 2030 General Plan has designated the Project site for urban uses under the Urban Growth Development Tier 1. The implementation of this Project will support the General Plan designation for future urban land use and Policy LU-P-20 for urban uses, including commercial development, which may develop within Tier 1 at any time consistent with the City’s Land Use Diagram.

The Visalia General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has already considered the environmental impacts of the conversion of properties within the Planning Area into non-agriculture uses. Overall, the General Plan results in the conversion of over 14,000 acres of Important Farmland to urban uses, which is considered significant and unavoidable. Aside from preventing development altogether the conversion of Important Farmland to urban uses cannot be directly mitigated, with agricultural conservation easements or by other means. However, the General Plan contains multiple policies that together work to limit conversion only to the extent needed to accommodate long-term growth. The General Plan policies identified under Impact 3.5-1 of the EIR serve as the mitigation that assists in reducing the severity of the impact to the extent possible while still achieving the General Plan’s goals of accommodating a certain amount of growth to occur within the Planning Area. These policies include the implementation of a three-tier growth boundary system that assists in protecting open space around the City fringe and maintaining compact development within the City limits.

The project will be consistent with Policy LU-P-34. The conversion of the site from agricultural use to urban development does not require mitigation to offset the loss of prime farmland as stated in Policy LU-P-34. The policy states: “the mitigation program shall specifically allow exemptions for conversion of agricultural lands in Tier I.”
Because there is still a significant impact to loss of agricultural resources after conversion of properties within the General Plan Planning Area to non-agricultural uses, a Statement of Overriding Considerations was previously adopted with the Visalia General Plan Update EIR. b) The project is not located on property that is party to a Williamson Act contract. Existing City of Visalia zoning for the area is QP (Quasi-Public), which allows various urban and non-agricultural uses.
c) The City of Visalia does not have a zoning classification for forest land; additionally, the site is not considered forest land and is currently vacant. Therefore, the site will not conflict with any forest land.
d) There is no forest land currently located on the site. e) The project site is located directly at the northwest corner of Akers Street and Riggin Avenue and is bounded by properties within City Limits on all sides. The surrounding area is primarily developed with Residential and Quasi-Public uses. The project will not result in the conversion of Farmland to nonagricultural use or the conversion of forest land to non-forest use.

III. AIR QUALITY
Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project:
2 a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? 1 b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard? 1 c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? 1 d) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? 275
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a) The project site is in an area that is under the jurisdiction of the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD). The project itself does not disrupt implementation of the San Joaquin Regional Air Quality Management Plan and will therefore not be a significant impact.

The Project proposes a GPA and corresponding COZ within a 21-acre site. The Project proposes decreasing the Parks / Recreation designation on the site from 21 to 5 acres and increasing the Commercial Mixed Use designation on the site to 16 acres. The Project will not change the amount of urbanized land uses allowed on the site, and will not change the type of uses toward uses that would be inconsistent with the development pattern of the city. As such, the Project is expected to have a less than significant impact regarding conflicting with or obstructing implementation of any applicable air quality plan.
b) Future development of site under the Visalia General Plan may result in emissions that exceed thresholds established by the SJVAPCD for PM10 and PM2.5. The change in land use and zoning itself will not result in emissions that violate air quality standards or contribute substantially to existing or projected air quality violations as it is solely the site’s allowed land use designations.

The Project proposes a change in General Plan and Zoning maps only and will have no direct impact on air quality, as it will not generate any construction or development. When future development is proposed on the Project site, the City will undertake CEQA review and assess potential impacts on air quality, including emissions of criteria pollutants and pollutant concentrations near sensitive receptors.

All future projects will be required to adhere to SJVAPCD rules and regulations and City requirements for construction related activities to ensure compliance with the attainment or maintenance plans. Applicable standard requirements and best management practices include, but are not limited to, implementation of a dust control and management plan.

Evaluation of air quality impacts may be required if certain project types are proposed near sensitive receptor land uses. Project types subject to this requirement include certain types of gasoline dispensing facilities.

In addition, future development of the project will be subject to the SJVAPCD Indirect Source Review (Rule 9510) procedures. The Applicant will be required to obtain permits demonstrating compliance with Rule 9510, or payment of mitigation fees to the SJVAPCD. Per the SJVAPCD, an Air Impact Assessment was completed for the project and the District has determined that the project is exempt from the requirements and as such the project complies with the emission reduction requirements of District Rule 9510 and is not subject to payment of off-site fees.

Tulare County is designated non-attainment for certain federal ozone and state ozone levels. c) Future development of site under the Visalia General Plan may result in emissions that exceed thresholds established by the SJVAPCD for PM10 and PM2.5. The change in land use and zoning itself will not result in emissions that violate air quality standards or contribute substantially to existing or projected air quality violations as it is solely the site’s allowed land use designations.

All future projects will be required to adhere to SJVAPCD rules and regulations and City requirements for construction related activities to ensure compliance with the attainment or maintenance plans. Applicable standard requirements and best management practices include, but 276
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are not limited to, implementation of a dust control and management plan.

Tulare County is designated non-attainment for certain federal ozone and state ozone levels. d) The proposed GPA and COZ has no potential to generate odors, as no development will occur. The proposed GPA and COZ would facilitate commercial development, which typically do not emit odors that would adversely affect a substantial number of people. CEQA review of future development onsite will include analysis of the types of commercial uses proposed, to assure that no significant odors are emitted, or propose mitigation measures should the use generate such odors.

IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
1 a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
1 b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
1 c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means?
1 d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
1 e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
1 f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? a) The proposed GPA and COZ will have no impact on any sensitive species, because no 277
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development is proposed. Future project proposals will be required by the City to undergo review under CEQA, including the analysis of impacts to any on-site resources if applicable. City-wide biological resources were evaluated in the Visalia General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for conversion to urban use.
b) The project is not located within an identified sensitive riparian habitat or other natural community.

The project site is more than one mile from any natural river (i.e. St. Johns River) or creek (i.e. Mill Creek).

In addition, City-wide biological resources were evaluated in the Visalia General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR concluded that certain sensitive natural communities may be directly or indirectly affected by future development within the General Plan Planning Area, particularly valley oak woodlands and valley oak riparian woodlands. Such effects would be considered significant. However, the General Plan contains multiple policies, identified under Impact 3.8-2 of the EIR, that together work to reduce the potential for impacts on woodlands located within in the Planning Area. With implementation of these policies and being that the project is not located within or adjacent to an identified sensitive riparian habitat or other natural communities, including woodlands, impacts on woodlands will be less than significant. c) The project contains a section of the Modoc Ditch which is identified as a riverine feature in the National Wetland Inventory (NWI). At the site visit, it was observed that the irrigation canal has a bare-ground bottom substrate and would not provide suitable habitat for any special-status aquatic species.

The project is not located within or adjacent to federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. City-wide biological resources were evaluated in the Visalia General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR concluded that certain protected wetlands and other waters may be directly or indirectly affected by future development within the General Plan Planning Area. Such effects would be considered significant. However, the General Plan contains multiple policies, identified under Impact 3.8-3 of the EIR, that together work to reduce the potential for impacts on wetlands and other waters located within the Planning Area.

With implementation of these policies, impacts on wetlands will be less than significant. d) The Project proposes only a map change and will not impact any wildlife movement or corridors.

The project would not interfere with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites.

Citywide biological resources were evaluated in the Visalia General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR concluded that the movement of wildlife species may be directly or indirectly affected by future development within the General Plan Planning Area. Such effects would be considered significant. However, the General Plan contains multiple policies, identified under Impact 3.8-4 of the EIR, that together work to reduce the potential for impacts on wildlife movement corridors located within the Planning Area. With implementation of these policies, impacts on wildlife movement corridors will be less than significant. e) The project will not conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. The City has a municipal ordinance in place to protect valley oak trees. No valley oak trees are located on site.
f) There are no local, regional or state habitat conservation plans for the area.

V. CULTURAL RESOURCES
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Would the project:
1 a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in Public Resources Code Section 15064.5?
1 b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 15064.5?
1 c) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? a) The proposed GPA and COZ have no potential to impact historic resources, because the Project consists only of a map change, and no development will occur. However, future development proposed on the site, which will be subject to review under CEQA, could impact resources. b) The proposed GPA and COZ have no potential to impact archaeological resources, because the Project consists only of a map change, and no development will occur. However, future development proposed on the site, which will be subject to review under CEQA, could impact resources.
c) The Project proposes a map change only and will have no impact on disturbing human remains.

Future development onsite will be subject to State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, which states that if human remains are encountered during site disturbance, all activity shall stop until the County Coroner has made a determination of origin and disposition pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 5097.98. The County Coroner must be notified of the find immediately and notify the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) if the remains are determined to be prehistoric.

NAHC will determine and notify a Most Likely Descendant (MLD), who may inspect the site of the discovery with the landowner’s permission within 48 hours of notification by the NAHC. Compliance with the requirements of state and local laws will ensure any potential impact to inadvertent discoveries of human remains due to future site development are reduced to less than significant levels.

VI. ENERGY
Would the project:
2 a) Result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation? 1 b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? a) The Project proposes a general plan amendment (GPA) and a change of zone (COZ) on the 21- acre subject property and will not involve any development or energy consumption related to construction or operation. When future development is proposed onsite, its design and construction will be subject to the state Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6), which serves to ensure the economical and wise use of energy resources during construction and operational phases.
b) The project will not conflict with or obstruct any state or local plans for renewable energy or energy efficiency. The proposed project will comply with all state and local policies related to energy efficiency.

VII. GEOLOGY AND SOILS
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Would the project:
a) Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
1 i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map, issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42.
1 ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
1 iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? 1 iv) Landslides?
1 b) Result in substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil? 1 c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse?
1 d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property?
1 e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? 1 f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature?
a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ and does not propose any development. The Project will have no impact on geology and soils. The State Geologist has not issued an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Map for Tulare County. The project area is not located on or near any known earthquake fault lines or areas prone to seismic activity or landslides. Therefore, the project will not expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse impacts involving earthquakes. b) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and does not propose any development. Any future development of this site will require movement of topsoil. Existing City Engineering Division standards require that a grading and drainage plan be submitted for review to the City to ensure that on- and off-site improvements will be designed to meet City standards. c) The project area is relatively flat and the underlying soil is not known to be unstable and have a low capacity for landslides, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse. Soils in the Visalia area have few limitations regarding development. Due to low clay content and limited topographic relief, soils in the Visalia area have low expansion characteristics. d) Due to low clay content, soils in the Visalia area have an expansion index of 0-20, which is defined as very low potential expansion.
e) Future development will not include any development that would utilize the need for septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems since City standards require that sanitary sewer lines be installed and utilized for the disposal of wastewater at this site. f) There are no unique geological features, and no known paleontological resources located within the project area. If some potentially unique paleontological or unique geological resources are unearthed during future development, all work should cease until a qualified professional paleontologist can evaluate the finding and make necessary mitigation recommendations. 280
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VIII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Would the project:
1 a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment?
1 b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?
a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and will not generate any development or greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed GPA and COZ will not conflict with any state and local plan, policy and regulation aimed at reducing GHG emissions.

The City has prepared and adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP), which includes baseline GHG emissions inventories, reduction measures, and reduction targets consistent with local and State goals. The CAP was prepared concurrently with the proposed General Plan and its impacts are also evaluated in the Visalia General Plan Update EIR. The Visalia General Plan and CAP both include policies that aim to reduce the level of GHG emissions emitted in association with buildout conditions under the General Plan.
b) The State of California has enacted the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32), which included provisions for reducing the GHG emission levels to 1990 “baseline” levels by 2020 and to a level 80% below 1990 baseline levels by 2050. In addition, the State has enacted SB 32 which included provisions for reducing the GHG emission levels to a level 40% below 1990 baseline levels by 2030.

The proposed project will not impede the State’s ability to meet the GHG emission reduction targets under AB 32. Current and probable future state and local GHG reduction measures will continue to reduce the project’s contribution to climate change. As a result, the project will not contribute significantly, either individually or cumulatively, to GHG emissions.

IX. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Would the project:
1 a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
1 b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment?
1 c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? 1 d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?
1 e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area? 1 f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
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1 g) Expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires?
a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the subject property and will have no impact on hazards or hazardous materials. The GPA and COZ would only change the acreage of park and commercial designations on-site. No hazardous materials are anticipated with the project as currently proposed. b) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the subject property and will have no impact on hazards or hazardous materials. The GPA and COZ would only change the acreage of park and commercial designations on-site. No hazardous materials are anticipated with the project as currently proposed. c) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the subject property and will have no impact on hazards or hazardous materials. The GPA and COZ would only change the acreage of park and commercial designations on-site. No hazardous materials are anticipated with the project as currently proposed.

The closest school to the Project site is Ridgeview Middle School, located directly north of the site. d) The project area does not include any sites listed as hazardous materials sites pursuant to Government Code Section 65692.5.
e) The Tulare County Comprehensive Airport Land Use Plan shows the project area is located outside the Airport Influence Area and the Airport Safety Zones. Therefore, the project will not result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area. f) The project will not interfere with the implementation of any adopted emergency response plan or evacuation plan.
g) There are no wildlands within or near the project area.

X. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
Would the project:
1 a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality?
1 b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? 1 c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would:
1 i) result in a substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site; 1 ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or offsite;
1 iii) create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff; 1 iv) impede or redirect flood flows?
1 d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk release of pollutants due to project inundation? 1 e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan?
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a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and does not propose any development. The Project will have no impact on surface or ground water quality, nor violate any water quality standards or wastewater discharge requirements. The proposed map change onsite will have no impact on groundwater supplies or recharge and will not impede sustainable groundwater management, nor conflict with a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan.

The project will not violate any water quality standards of waste discharge requirements. Future development of the project site would be required to meet the City’s improvement standards for directing storm water runoff to the existing City storm water drainage system, consistent with the City’s adopted City Storm Drain Master Plan.
b) The project will not substantially deplete groundwater supplies in the project vicinity. Future development of the project site will be served by a water lateral for domestic, irrigation, and fire protection use.

The project area overlies the southern portion of the San Joaquin unit of the Central Valley groundwater aquifer. Future development within the project area will result in an increase of impervious surfaces, which might affect the amount of precipitation that is recharged to the aquifer.

As the City of Visalia is already largely developed and covered by impervious surfaces, the increase of impervious surfaces through this project will be small by comparison. Any future project therefore might affect the amount of precipitation that is recharged to the aquifer. The City of Visalia’s water conversation measures and explorations for surface water use over groundwater extraction will assist in offsetting the loss in groundwater recharge. c) The project will not result in substantial erosion on- or off-site. Future development of the site will not alter the course of any rivers or streams as neither are located near the site.

Development of the site has the potential to affect drainage patterns in the short term due to erosion and sedimentation during construction activities and in the long term through the expansion of impervious surfaces. The City’s existing standards may require the preparation and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) in accordance with the SWRCB’s General Construction Permit process, which would address erosion control measures.

The project will not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site. The development of the site will also not impede or redirect flood flows.

Development of the site will create additional impervious surfaces, such as streets. However, existing and planned improvements to storm water drainage facilities as required through the Visalia General Plan policies will reduce any potential impacts to a less than significant level.

The project will not create or contribute runoff water, which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff.

The development will be required to meet the City’s improvement standards for directing storm water runoff to the existing City storm water drainage system; consistent with the City’s adopted City Storm Drain Master Plan.
d) The project area is not located within a flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zone.

The project area along with the entirety of the City of Visalia lies within the dam inundation area of Terminus Dam, located approximately 35 miles to the east from the project site. In the case of dam failure, people and structures would be exposed to flooding risk and potentially pollutants. This impact is considered significant and unavoidable.
e) The project will not conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality plan or sustainable groundwater management plan. The Visalia General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report 283
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(EIR) has already considered the environmental impacts of the placement of people and structures to an area at risk of dam failure. The General Plan contains multiple policies that address the issue, and the County of Tulare maintains the Tulare County Hazard Mitigation Plan and a Mass Evacuation Plan that will help to reduce the impact.

Because there is still a significant impact, a Statement of Overriding Considerations was previously adopted with the Visalia General Plan Update EIR.

XI. LAND USE AND PLANNING
Would the project:
1 a) Physically divide an established community?
2 b) Cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and does not propose any development. The Project site is currently vacant and undeveloped, surrounded by public roadways on the north, east and south, and similar vacant land on the west. The Carleton Acres Specific Plan applies to private property located directly west of the site. The Specific Plan’s land use and circulation concept illustrates a future local roadway to be developed on the west side of the Project site adjacent to the Specific Plan area. Since this area will operate independently, it will not be physically divided by future development on the Project site. No impact will occur. b) The Visalia General Plan designates land use categories to the property, and includes objectives and policies that guide growth within the Planning Area. Currently the General Plan designates the entire 21-acre Project site for Parks/Recreation. The City’s Zoning Map further zones the property as Quasi-Public (QP). While General Plan Table 9-1, Consistency Between the Plan and Zoning, states that the Consistent Zoning District to the Parks/Recreation General Plan Land Use Designation is PR, the Zoning Map currently does not utilize a PR designation. Rather, the QP zone is the most consistent zoning district to this land use designation, based upon the QP zone district’s Purpose and intent (Municipal Code Section 17.52.010) and Permitted uses (Municipal Code Section 17.52.030), which support parks and uses providing community service.

The proposed GPA and COZ would result in the establishment of 16 acres of Commercial Mixed Use land use and zoning designation at this location and a decrease in the area under the Parks/Recreation land use designation and QP zoning designation from 21 acres to 5 acres on the site. The City of Visalia’s General Plan and Zoning ordinance do not contain any policies or regulation that would otherwise regulate the placement or location of the Commercial Mixed Use designation at this location.

General Plan Policy PSCU-P-5 calls for the creation of a new community park to be built in and to serve the northwest quadrant. The policy generally states that the park shall be in the northwest, and the facility map shown as Figure 5-1 identifies the 21-acre Project site as the potential location of the community park. Policy PSCU-P-5 further states that community parks are intended to include resources beyond those found at neighborhood parks, such as a community center building, reserved picnic facilities, tennis courts, aquatic center, and/or outdoor concert area.

The current size of this parcel is significantly larger than the policy guideline of “5 to 12 acres or more” for community parks. With the proposed GPA and COZ, the resulting 5 acres of Parks/recreation designation would still meet the size criteria for a community park. Currently there are two other undeveloped Park/Recreation land use designations in the northwest quadrant of at least five acres in size that could facilitate a community park. These sites are 15 acres near the 284
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northeast corner of Demaree Street & Pratt Avenue and 10 acres fronting the future Riverway Avenue extension north of Modoc Basin. Both designated sites could facilitate the northwest quadrant’s community park based on their acreage. Therefore, the Project will not result in a conflict with this General Plan policy.

XII. MINERAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
1 a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be a value to the region and the residents of the state?
1 b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? a) No mineral areas of regional or statewide importance exist within the Visalia area. b) There are no mineral resource recovery sites delineated in the Visalia area.

XIII. NOISE
Would the project result in:
1 a) Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies?
1 b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? 1 c) For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels?
a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and does not propose any development. The Project will have no impact on noise. When future development is proposed onsite, noise impacts will be analyzed during the CEQA review and building permit processes. The City may require the preparation of site-specific noise studies to assess impacts from roadway noise, as appropriate. Should noise levels on the Project site require mitigation, there are a variety of means such as noise attenuation walls and limiting the hours of operation on activities.

Future development of the site will result in noise generation typical of urban development, but should remain within the standards established in the City of Visalia’s General Plan or Noise Ordinance. Noise levels would increase temporarily during construction of the site but should remain within noise limits and will be restricted to the allowed hours of construction defined by the City of Visalia Noise Ordinance. Temporary increase in ambient noise levels is less than significant.

Furthermore, the Visalia General Plan contains multiple policies, identified under Impact N-P-3 through N-P-5, that work to reduce the potential for noise impacts to any sensitive land uses. With implementation of Noise Impact Policies and existing City Standards, noise impacts to new noise sensitive land uses would be less than significant.
b) The Project will have no impact on noise. Ground-borne vibration or ground-borne noise levels could occur in the future because of construction activities associated with any development. Any 285
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construction activities will be temporary and will not expose persons to such vibration or noise levels for an extended period; thus, the impacts will be less than significant. There are no existing uses near the project area that create ground-borne vibration or ground-borne noise levels. c) The project site is not located within the Airport Influence Area nor within the Airport Safety Zones nor near a private airstrip and therefore will not expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels.

XIV.POPULATION AND HOUSING
Would the project:
1 a) Induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?
1 b) Displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
a) The project will not directly induce substantial population growth that is more than what is planned in the General Plan. The proposed GPA and COZ would reduce the area designated for park development and increase the area designated for commercial development onsite. Since there are no residential uses involved, there is no difference in population growth compared to that under the existing land use designations. The Project would not induce unplanned population growth either directly or indirectly. No impact would occur.
b) The Project and any future development will not displace any housing or people as the proposed site is currently vacant.

XV. PUBLIC SERVICES
Would the project:
1 a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services:
1 i) Fire protection?
1 ii) Police protection?
1 iii) Schools?
1 iv) Parks?
1 v) Other public facilities?
a)
i. Current fire protection facilities are located at Visalia Station 56 and can adequately serve the site without a need for alteration. Impact fees will be paid upon future development to mitigate the project’s proportionate impact on these facilities.
ii. Current police protection facilities can adequately serve the site without a need for alteration. 286
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Impact fees will be paid upon future development to mitigate the project’s proportionate impact on these facilities.
iii. The Project will have no impact on public services. Future development proposed on the Project site will be assessed under CEQA, to determine whether it will impact public services. The area surrounding the Project site is partially developed and in an area that already receives public services.
iv. The Project will have no impact on public services. Future development proposed on the Project site will be assessed under CEQA, to determine whether it will impact public services. The area surrounding the Project site is partially developed and in an area that already receives public services.
v. Other public facilities can adequately serve the site without a need for alteration.

XVI. RECREATION
1 a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated?
1 b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. There will be no impact on recreational facilities. Future development may contribute to park impact fees, which would cover the additional costs associated with providing parks and recreational services. These issues will be reviewed under CEQA as future development projects are proposed.
b) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. There will be no impact on recreational facilities.

XVII. TRANSPORTATION / TRAFFIC
Would the project:
1 a) Conflict with a program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
1 b) Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines § 15064.3, subdivision (b)? 1 c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? 1 d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
a. The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. There will be no impact on transportation. Future development may contribute to transportation impact fees, and would be required to address its traffic impacts in the CEQA review process.

The development which could occur under the Project would generate additional commercial trips, but reduced park/recreation trips. Since the type and density of development is not known at this time, it would be entirely speculative to predict trip generation for either the park or commercial 287
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portions of the Project site. A Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) will be required per the City Transportation Impact Analysis Guidelines if the development would generate a net increase of 100 or more peak hour vehicle trips. The TIA will include mitigation measures where necessary, including fair share contributions.

There are existing bike lanes on Riggin Avenue, immediately east of the Project site. When development occurs, it will be required to extend these bike lanes along the Project frontage, consistent with City requirements.

Visalia Transit provides a bus service to the city. Existing service on route #7 includes a stop at the fronting intersection. As the community develops, including the Project site, additional stops will be provided to support ridership.
b. Under SB 743, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 was amended December 2018, stating that vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is the most appropriate measure of transportation impacts. A lead agency may use models or other methods to analyze a project’s VMT quantitatively or qualitatively.

The City of Visalia, in determining the significance of transportation impacts for land use projects and for compliance with CEQA, recognizes the adopted City of Visalia Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) Thresholds and Implementation Guidelines (LSA, 2021, herein referred to as “Guidelines”) recommended threshold as the basis for what constitutes a significant or less than significant transportation impact.

The proposed GPA and COZ will have no impact on VMT. The development of park and commercial projects in the future will require a VMT analysis. At the time that a development is proposed, its impact on regional VMT will be analyzed, to ensure that if any significant VMT impacts were to occur, they could be reduced to less than significant levels. It should be noted, however, that the adjacency of residential, commercial, and park land uses, being that the Project site is surrounded by residential uses, tends to reduce VMT because of the synergistic relationship between where people reside and where they work and shop. c. The GPA and COZ will only result in a map change, and no development will occur. Future development will be subject to City standards regarding roadway improvements, parking, and emergency access, either through CEQA or through conditions of approval.

The Project site is in the established street system of the city and region, and future development is not expected to interfere with the system.
d. Future development on the Project site will be required to meet City design standards for adequate access by emergency vehicles and comply with all applicable fire code and ordinance requirements for geometric design and site access.

XVIII. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
a) Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code § 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is:
1 i) Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or 1 ii) A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code § 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code § 288
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5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.

The City has conducted formal government-to-government consultation with tribes under SB 18. As a result of that consultation effort, the City received one letter from the Table Mountain Rancheria, stating that the project site is beyond their area of interest. No other correspondence was received from any other tribes. It is important to note, as described in Section V., that the proposed Project will not include any ground disturbance, and future development will be subject to future CEQA review, and mitigation as needed for project-specific impacts.

Therefore, no impacts are identified or anticipated, and no mitigation measures are required at this time.

The proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe. a) The site is not listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k). b) The site has been determined to not be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1.

XIX. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
Would the project:
1 a) Require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? 1 b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years?
1 c) Result in a determination by the waste water treatment provider, which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
1 d) Generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? 1 e) Comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
a) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. The Project will have no impact on utilities. Future development will consider utilities as part of the CEQA review and land use application process.

The Visalia wastewater treatment plant has a current rated capacity of 22 million gallons per day but currently treats an average daily maximum month flow of 12.5 million gallons per day. With the completed project, the plant has more than sufficient capacity to accommodate impacts associated with the project. The proposed project will therefore not cause significant environmental impacts.

The development onsite will be required to install City storm water drainage lines that handle onsite and street runoff. Usage of these lines is consistent with the City Storm Drain Master Plan. 289
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These improvements will not cause significant environmental impacts. The project also does not require the relocation or construction of new or expanded electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications.
b) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. The Project will have no impact on utilities. California Water Service Company oversees the Project site as part of their long-range planning, accounting for local population growth and development trends in the Project area.
c) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. The Project will have no impact on wastewater. The City has determined that there is adequate capacity existing to serve the site’s projected wastewater treatment demands at the City wastewater treatment plant upon future development of the project. However, the real impacts associated with the City’s wastewater system will be assessed when development is known and can be quantified.
d) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. The Project will have no impact on solid waste disposal. Future commercial customers on the Project site will be assessed fees for solid waste service. The transfer stations and landfills in the region currently have sufficient capacity to accommodate future development.

Future development on the Project site will be required to analyze demand and capacity for solid waste disposal as part of the CEQA process.
e) The Project proposes a GPA and COZ on the 21-acre subject property and involves no development. The Project will have no impact on solid waste disposal. The project will be able to meet the applicable regulations for solid waste. Removal of debris from future construction will be subject to the City’s waste disposal requirements.

XX. WILDFIRE
If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project:
1 a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? 1 b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?
1 c) Require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? 1 d) Expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes? a) The proposed GPA and COZ will have no impact on wildfire hazards, as no development is proposed. The project will not substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
b) The project site is located on a flat area of agriculture and urban land which is at little risk of fire. c) The future development of the site will include the development of infrastructure such as roads, sewer lines, power lines and utilities, however all improvements would be subject to City standards and Fire Marshal approval. The proposed project would not exacerbate fire risk. 290
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d) The project site is flat and therefore is not susceptible to downslope or downstream flooding or landslides as a result of post-fire instability, or drainage changes.

XXI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
1 a) Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? 2 b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)?
2 c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
a) As described above, the Project proposes a map change only and does not involve any development or construction. There will be no impact on biological and cultural resources. b) This site was evaluated in the Program EIR (SCH No. 2010041078) for the City of Visalia General Plan Update for the area’s conversion to urban use. The City adopted mitigation measures for conversion to urban development. Where effects were still determined to be significant a statement of overriding considerations was made.
c) This site was evaluated in the Program EIR (SCH No. 2010041078) for the City of Visalia General Plan Update for conversion to urban use. The City adopted mitigation measures for conversion to urban development. Where effects were still determined to be significant a statement of overriding considerations was made.

Note: Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21083.05, Public Resources Code. Reference:

Section 65088.4, Gov. Code; Sections 21080(c), 21080.1, 21080.3, 21083, 21083.05, 21083.3, 21093, 21094, 21095, and 21151, Public Resources Code; Sundstrom v. County of Mendocino,(1988) 202 Cal.App.3d 296; Leonoff v. Monterey Board of Supervisors, (1990) 222 Cal.App.3d 1337; Eureka Citizens for Responsible Govt. v. City of Eureka (2007) 147 Cal.App.4th 357; Protect the Historic Amador Waterways v. Amador Water Agency (2004) 116 Cal.App.4th at 1109; San Franciscans Upholding the Downtown Plan v. City and County of San Francisco (2002) 102 Cal.App.4th 656.

Revised 2019
Authority: Public Resources Code sections 21083 and 21083.09 Reference: Public Resources Code sections 21073, 21074, 21080.3.1, 21080.3.2, 21082.3/ 21084.2 and 21084.3
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DETERMINATION OF REQUIRED ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT
On the basis of this initial evaluation:

X _ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED.

I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on the attached sheet have been added to the project. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION WILL BE PREPARED. _ I find the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
_ I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
_ I find that as a result of the proposed project no new effects could occur, or new mitigation measures would be required that have not been addressed within the scope of the Program Environmental Impact Report (SCH No. 2010041078).

The Environmental Impact Report prepared for the City of Visalia General Plan was certified by Resolution No. 2014-37 adopted on October 14, 2014. THE PROGRAM ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT WILL BE UTILIZED.

July 14, 2025
Brandon Smith, AICP Date
Environmental Coordinator
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Land Use Map
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N Roeben St
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Parkwood
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Sedona
Delaware
Oakwood
Atwood
Flagstaff
Lark
Quincy
Oriole
Crenshaw
Crenshaw
Porter
Robin
Brooke
Pratos
Hilton
Noyes
Atwood
Payson
Parkwood
Delaware
Modoc
Boise
Lark
Wren
Sunnyview
Lark
Oriole
Prescott
Modoc
Wren
Vicinity Map
Hwy 198
Ben
Maddox
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Mooney
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Lovers Lane
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Other
Conservation
Public Institutional
Parks/Recreation
Residential High Density
Residential Low Density
Residential Medium Density
Residential Very Low Density
16 acres changing
from Parks/Recreation
to Commercial Mixed Use
The property is located at the northwest corner of N Akers St and W Riggin Ave, within the city limits of Visalia, Tulare County. (APN: 077-100-103).

Commercial Mixed Use.
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General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 Zoning Map
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N Roeben St
Crenshaw
Parkwood
Delaware
Sedona
Delaware
Oakwood
Atwood
Flagstaff
Lark
Quincy
Oriole
Crenshaw
Crenshaw
Porter
Robin
Brooke
Pratos
Hilton
Noyes
Atwood
Payson
Parkwood
Delaware
Modoc
Boise
Lark
Wren
Sunnyview
Lark
Oriole
Prescott
Modoc
Wren
Vicinity Map
Hwy 198
Ben
Maddox
Riggin
Houston
Mineral King
Main
Goshen
St
Jo h ns
DemareeNoble
Caldwell
Mooney
Akers Hwy 99 Shirk
Lovers Lane
Pla
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Betty
Collector
Local
Minor Arterial
Other
Quasi-Public
Single-family Residential 20000 SF
Single-family Residential 5000 SF
Multi-family Residential 1200 SF
Multi-family Residential 3000 SF
County Areas
16 acres changing
from Quasi-Public
to Commercial Mixed Use
The property is located at the northwest corner of N Akers St and W Riggin Ave, within the city limits of Visalia, Tulare County. (APN: 077-100-103).

Commercial Mixed Use.
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0 500 1,000
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General Plan Amendment No. 2025-02 and Change of Zone No. 2025-03 Location Map
N
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W Riggin Ave
N Roeben St
Crenshaw
Parkwood
Delaware
Sedona
Delaware
Oakwood
Atwood
Flagstaff
Lark
Quincy
Oriole
Crenshaw
Crenshaw
Porter
Robin
Brooke
Pratos
Hilton
Noyes
Atwood
Payson
Parkwood
Delaware
Modoc
Boise
Lark
Wren
Sunnyview
Lark
Oriole
Prescott
Modoc
Wren
Vicinity Map
Hwy 198
Ben
Maddox
Riggin
Houston
Mineral King
Main
Goshen
St
Jo h ns
DemareeNoble
Caldwell
Mooney
Akers Hwy 99 Shirk
Lovers Lane
Pla
za
Betty
Collector
Local
Minor Arterial
Other
Project Site
The property is located at the northwest corner of N Akers St and W Riggin Ave, within the city limits of Visalia, Tulare County. (APN: 077-100-103).

Commercial Mixed Use.
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Visalia City Council
Staff Report
Visalia City Council
707 W. Acequia
Visalia, CA 93291
File #: 25-0250 Agenda Date: 9/2/2025 Agenda #: 1.

Agenda Item Wording:

Upcoming City Council Meetings
Monday, September 15, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. at 707 W. Acequia Monday, October 6, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m. at 707 W. Acequia
Note: Meeting dates and times are subject to change, check posted agenda for correct details. In compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in meetings contact 713-4512.

Visalia City Council Page 1 of 1 Printed on 8/20/2025
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Visalia City CouncilSeptember 2, 2025

Visalia City Council
September 2, 2025