Town of Yountville
Staff Report
6550 Yount Street
Yountville, CA 94599
Agenda Item #: {{section.number}}C
Yountville Town Council Staff Report
DATE: March 19, 2024
TO: Mayor and Town Council
FROM: Hilary Gaede, Acting Town Clerk
PREPARED BY: Hilary Gaede, Acting Town Clerk
RECOMMENDATION
Discussion and possible action regarding formation of an ad hoc committee to develop a Food Ware/Single-Use Plastics Ordinance for the Town of Yountville.
DISCUSSION/BACKGROUND
The Mayor and Council Members serve on various county-wide and regional committees representing the interests of the Town. Per Town Council Handbook, Town Council committees and assignments are reviewed on an annual basis but may be reevaluated from time to time as the need arises. Appointments are subject to approval by a majority of the Town Council.
The purpose of this report is to recommend the establishment of an ad hoc committee to assist in the development of a food ware/single-use plastics ordinance for the Town of Yountville. With growing concerns over environmental sustainability and public health, there is a need for regulation regarding the use of food containers, utensils, and packaging within our jurisdiction.
The proposed ad hoc committee will be tasked with developing a food ware/single-use plastics ordinance tailored to the needs and circumstances of Yountville. Vice Mayor Hillery Bolt Trippe and Council Member Pam Reeves currently represent Yountville on the Napa County Climate Action Committee (CAC). CAC has been working on this subject on a regional level. The proposed ad hoc committee would allow members to research and propose ideas that address the specific needs of Yountville.
Responsibilities of the ad hoc committee will include:
• Research and Analysis: Conducting research on existing food ware ordinances and best practices, analyzing their effectiveness, and identifying relevant data and statistics. • Community Member Engagement: Facilitating discussions with stakeholders to gather input, address concerns, and ensure that the ordinance reflects the needs and interests of all parties involved. • Drafting of Ordinance: Developing a draft ordinance that addresses key issues such as the prohibition of certain types of single-use plastics, requirements for compostable or recyclable alternatives, implementation timelines, enforcement mechanisms, and public education initiatives.
Under the Brown Act, a properly created ad hoc committee is not required to comply with open meeting requirements. Ad Hoc Advisory Committees have a fixed, limited assignment and recommendations of the Committee must be presented to the entire Council at a noticed meeting. Any action to modify the Committee shall be placed on the Council agenda.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Exempt per California Environmental Act (CEQA) Guideline, Section 15061(b)(3)
FISCAL IMPACT
Is there a Fiscal Impact? No
Is it Currently Budgeted? N/A
Where is it Budgeted? N/A
Is it Mandatory or Discretionary? Discretionary
Is there a Staff Resource Impact? Nominal
STRATEGIC PLAN GOAL
Is item Identified in Strategic Plan? Yes
If yes, Identify Strategic Goal and Objective. Visionary Leadership: The Town's leadership maintains an openminded, forward-thinking decision-making process. We value engagement and participation from all members of the community as we work together to create policies and plan for the future.
Briefly Explain Relationship to Strategic Plan Goal and Objective. Taking such action aligns with visionary leadership by demonstrating foresight, proactive problem-solving, and a commitment to shaping a more sustainable and healthy future for our community.