HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-06-09_cityofsanrafael_dab39bf1a287e035128a481a25660336
San Rafael General Plan 10-Year Status Report
Public Review Draft
May 2015
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Table of Contents
Purpose ......................................................................................................................................................... 1
Accomplishments since 2004 ........................................................................................................................ 1
Summary of Planning Related Updates Since 2004 ...................................................................................... 8
Adoption of a Sustainability Element .................................................................................................... 8
Housing Element Update during the 10-Year Review Period ............................................................... 8
Loss of Redevelopment ......................................................................................................................... 8
Completion of Station Area Plans and Design Plans ............................................................................. 9
Overview of Required Actions on Programs ............................................................................................... 10
Program Evaluation by Element ................................................................................................................. 11
Land Use Element ................................................................................................................................... 11
Housing Element ..................................................................................................................................... 12
Neighborhoods Element ......................................................................................................................... 13
Community Design Element ................................................................................................................... 14
Economic Vitality Element ...................................................................................................................... 14
Circulation Element ................................................................................................................................. 15
Infrastructure Element ............................................................................................................................ 16
Governance Element............................................................................................................................... 16
Sustainability Element ............................................................................................................................ 17
Culture and Arts Element ........................................................................................................................ 18
Parks and Recreation Element ................................................................................................................ 19
Safety Element ........................................................................................................................................ 19
Noise Element ......................................................................................................................................... 20
Open Space Element ............................................................................................................................... 21
Conservation Element ............................................................................................................................. 21
Air and Water Quality Element ............................................................................................................... 22
APPENDIX A: General Plan Review Matrices with Department Responses ................................................ A1
LAND USE ................................................................................................................................................ A1
HOUSING (2015-2023 HOUSING ELEMENT PROGRAM APPROACH) ...................................................... A4
NEIGHBORHOODS ................................................................................................................................. A18
COMMUNITY DESIGN ............................................................................................................................ A26
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ECONOMIC VITALITY ............................................................................................................................. A30
CIRCULATION ........................................................................................................................................ A33
INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................................................................. A39
GOVERNANCE ....................................................................................................................................... A41
SUSTAINABILITY .................................................................................................................................... A43
CULTURE AND ARTS .............................................................................................................................. A53
PARKS AND RECREATION ...................................................................................................................... A56
SAFETY ................................................................................................................................................... A59
NOISE .................................................................................................................................................... A61
OPEN SPACE .......................................................................................................................................... A63
CONSERVATION .................................................................................................................................... A64
AIR AND WATER QUALITY ..................................................................................................................... A68
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San Rafael General Plan 10-Year Status Report
Purpose
The San Rafael General Plan 10-Year Status Report is a review of the progress in implementing programs
and policies of the General Plan over the past decade and a roadmap for the General Plan Amendments
which are to follow. This report looks at the changes that have occurred including impacts of the
economy and other factors since the adoption of the General Plan in 2004. A summary of the
accomplishments in that timeframe addressing policies and programs in the General Plan have also been
included.
Recommendations contained within the report provide guidance for General Plan Amendments that will
update the policies and programs within each Element. It is important that the programs receive a
periodic update to ensure that the City can support the goals and objectives of the General Plan. By
preparing this report and by adopting the General Plan Amendments to incorporate program
modifications proposed, the City can ensure that the General Plan continues to be a relevant and
integral document that shapes San Rafael’s future.
The State monitors General Plan implementation through annual progress reports from cities. As a
Charter City, San Rafael is not required to submit annual reports to the State. This report reviews
progress towards the implementation of General Plan policies through a multiple year perspective,
providing the opportunity to assess the approaches, challenges and accomplishments of General Plan
implementation over the past decade.
The 10-year review was completed with input from members of a Working Group consisting of
representatives from many city departments. A comprehensive review of short-term and annual
programs was conducted for each of the 16 elements in the San Rafael General Plan. Additionally, select
long-term and ongoing programs with important progress to report were also included in the review.
Through this 10-year review, the City of San Rafael has evaluated which programs can be removed due
to completion, what strategies and programs will need to be continued, and where revisions are needed
to reflect changes over the past decade. The following provides a summary of accomplishments,
changes and proposed updates to General Plan programs. This report contains the following:
Summary of accomplishments since 2004;
Discussion of planning-related updates;
Highlights of proposed program updates organized by element; and
A full summary of all proposed actions in an appendix.
Accomplishments since 2004
The San Rafael General Plan 2020 was adopted in September 2004. Over the past ten years, the City
experienced the four-year Great Recession, which had a significant influence on quelling and/or
dropping many important community projects promoted by the General Plan, as well as staffing to
undertake many of the programs. Nonetheless, during this period, there have been a number important
accomplishments, which are directly and indirectly related to or respond to policies and programs in the
General Plan. These accomplishments include, among others, the following:
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Table 1. Summary of Accomplishments
1. Consistent with Housing Element Policy H-19, the City approved approximately a dozen
residential housing projects, which included the approval and development of over 50 new,
“inclusionary” (below-market-rate) housing units for sale and/or rental. This program has
yielded a variety of housing types for all incomes. With the approval of housing projects such
as the Village @ Loch Lomond Marina, the Ventana Villas at 1515 Lincoln Avenue, 1867
Lincoln Avenue, 1144 Mission Avenue, 33 North at 33 San Pablo Ave and others.
2. The City was successful in winning a lawsuit against the property owners of the Contempo
Marin Mobile Home Park, which preserved our municipal code provisions for mobile home
park rent control (Mobilehome Rent Stabilization Ordinance). This action is consistent with
the Housing Element, which promotes the retention of mobile homes as they provide low
cost housing.
3. The City adopted and the State of California certified two updates to the Housing Element.
The Housing Element 2007-2014 was adopted and certified in 2011, while the latest update,
Housing Element 2015-2023, was adopted and certified in January 2015.
4. Consistent with the Economic Vitality Element, a number of new commercial, job- and tax-
generating uses were approved and opened for business including a new Target Store, a
Honda vehicle dealership, the renovation of and new commercial tenants at the Mall at
Northgate, including Home Goods, H&M and Forever 21. Other locally-based business
opened, which expanded the community’s employment and tax base. These locally-based
businesses include Bio Marin, who is building-out the San Rafael Corporate Center for its
corporate headquarters, and EO Beauty Products, which are manufactured in Southeast San
Rafael. Other new businesses established during this time include Extended Stay Hotel, Mi
Pueblo, Sonnen VW/Audi and Copperfield’s Book Store.
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5. In response to the California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB32), in 2009, the City adopted
the San Rafael Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP). In 2011, the CCAP was incorporated into
the San Rafael General Plan 2020 with the adoption of a new Sustainability Element, which
includes a Qualified Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Strategy. Since adoption of the
CCAP and Sustainability Element, many programs from these documents have been approved
and/or implemented by the City including, among others: a) the adoption of single-use carry-
out bag and polystyrene ordinances; b) the adoption of zoning code provisions establishing
standards for wind-generated energy devices; and c) the adoption of building code provisions
establishing green building requirements. In addition, the City adopted a zero waste policy
and program, and became a member of Marin Clean Energy (MCE). The City has also been in
the forefront with use of solar energy by acquiring and installing roof-mounted solar panels
on the fleet of fire trucks, and by constructing photovoltaics at a number of key City-owned
facilities. During this time, LED lights were installed on City streets. Lastly, a “white paper” on
Climate Adaptation – Sea Level Rise was completed and published in 2014, which provides a
broad inventory of the San Rafael shoreline and levees, as well as qualitative suggestions on
areas and concepts for adaptation.
6. The City approved development of two, new neighborhood parks. In 2005, the Redwood Park
@ Redwood Village (North San Pedro Road) was completed and accepted by the City. This
three-acre neighborhood park includes a large turfed field for multiple uses, play equipment
and a public restroom. In 2007, the shoreline park @ Loch Lomond Marina was approved and
is currently under construction. Although privately-owned and managed through the
establishment of a Mello-Roos maintenance district, this shoreline park is for public use and
includes a large marina green and boardwalk; a public access path along the marina
breakwater, play equipment and facilities along two jetties; a kayak launching dock and
shoreline ramp; fishing stations; and a public restroom. These new parks were approved and
developed consistent with the policies and programs of the Parks and Recreation Element.
7. Consistent with the Parks and Recreation Element, the City has made numerous facility
renovations and expansions including, but not limited to: the rebuilding of the Terra Linda
Community Center pool; installation of the Pickleweed Park playing fields; and renovations at
Freitas Park, Bret Harte Park, Gerstle Park and Sun Valley park.
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8. Consistent with the Circulation Element, the City adopted a comprehensive update to the City
of San Rafael Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. This plan established a “complete streets”
directive for the City, triggering numerous bicycle and pedestrian route improvements
throughout the City. At a more neighborhood level, in 2006, in partnership with the
Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM), the City adopted the Canal Neighborhood
Community-Based Transportation Plan, which includes numerous programs to improve
connectivity and transportation access to the Canal community. Since the adoption of this
plan, all of the programs have been implemented including major bicycle and pedestrian
improvements along Medway Road. In addition, since 2004, the City has developed and
implemented a number of programs promoting use of alternative transportation modes to
reduce our carbon footprint including, among others, an Employee Commute Program, Bike-
to-Work Day Energizer Program, the purchase of “Green” fleet vehicles, and the “Got Time
Marin” commuter toolbox for local businesses.
9. In preparation for the arrival of the SMART commuter rail service, the City completed two
“Station Area Plans.” The Downtown SMART Station Area Plan and the Civic Center SMART
Station Area Plan are vision documents, which cover ½-mile radius around the two rail
stations. This effort implemented programs contained in both the Housing Element and
Circulation Element. Further, in preparation for the arrival of SMART, the City was proactive
in: a) preparing and implementing a “Day One” readiness program to address anticipated
vehicle and rail traffic impacts in Downtown; and b) adopting “Quiet Zones” along the SMART
line to address and minimize noise impacts to residents, which is recommended in the Noise
Element.
10. The Countywide voter approval of Parks & Open Space Measure A in 2012 has made it
possible for the City to fund continued maintenance of and improvements to the City’s parks
and open space. The availability of Measure A funds has helped reinforce the policies and
programs of the Park and Recreation Element and Open Space Element.
11. The Governance Element includes policies and programs that include partnerships with other
local governments and organizations to provide community services and to cost-effectively
resolve shared problems. Since 2004, the City has invested in partnerships with a number of
other jurisdictions, districts and private entities to maximize services in a cost-effective way.
The City partners with, among others:
The City of Larkspur, which essentially allows the sharing of chief Fire Dept officers across
jurisdictional lines. The Fire Unified Command Agreement with Larkspur permits the
respective Fire Chiefs to assist each other’s agencies, so that leadership, supervision,
technical oversight, and operational functions of each fire agency occur in a seamless and
coordinated fashion.
The City of Novato in the operation of the Hamilton Pool
The Trust for Public Lands for construction of the Canal Community Garden
The Canal Alliance for management of the Canal Community Garden
Terrapin Crossroads for the renovation of Beach Park
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12. The Citywide voter approval of Measure E in 2013 has provided additional funds to preserve
essential City services for a period of 20 years, which reinforces many of the goals and policies
of the Safety Element. Measure E funds, which are collected through sale tax, are
instrumental in maintaining rapid emergency police/fire response times, maintaining
adequate numbers of on-duty firefighters/paramedics/police, ensuring earthquake safe
police/fire stations, maintaining community centers and repairing city streets.
13. A number of actions and improvements have been made to reinforce the recommendations
of the Infrastructure Element, in 2006, the City adopted a telecommunication ordinance,
which provides a process to ensure that new wireless communication facilities are placed and
designed in an organized and visually aesthetic manner. In addition, the City was able to fund
and construct a number of small to large capital improvement projects.
14. In support of the Economic Vitality and Governance Elements, the City has made a significant
investment in improving technology including, among others:
Launching a “GIS” Program providing an addressed-based data and mapping system
Upgrading the City’s telephone system to a network-based voice-over IP system
Commencing the use of smart phones and other mobile device for City workers
Installing leased fiber communications
Launching and operating Granicus on the City website to provide on-line access to public
meeting agendas and video archives of the meetings
Upgrading Police Department systems to provide enhanced internet access capabilities
for mobile data computers
Launched “e-permits” into the City’s permit tracking systems and permit archives,
making it possible for the public to access and track active permits and to retrieve
historic permits.
15. The City has promoted and/or initiated a number of programs to assist the needy, particularly
the homeless population, which is recommended by the Housing Element. The programs
assisting the homeless population include the development of the San Rafael “Streets Team;”
the adoption of an “overlay” district in the Southeast San Rafael area that established special
use allowances for permanent emergency shelters; and promoting “REST,” which is a rotating
emergency homeless shelter program. Also, the City reinstated the Police Department’s
Mental Health Officer position
16. Even with the Great Recession, the City has been able to pursue a number of long-term plans
to address programs in the Culture and Arts Element. The San Rafael Public Library
Foundation was founded in 2004 with a mission to build a library for the 21st century. Since
that time, the Foundation has raised funds for the building of a new library, conducted a
fundraising feasibility study, and received a $25,000 per year grant for ten years from Target
Corporation. The Foundation is working in concert with the Library on its initiatives including
creating an inclusive community vision for a new library, conducting a needs assessment and
building program, and beginning site analysis and public outreach. Further, just last year, the
City Council adopted the Library Strategic Plan, which establishes a road map for long-range
library facility planning.
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17. Recently, the City initiated the preparation of a Local Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, which is
recommended in the Safety Element and is a key tool to qualify for Federal and State grants
to fund specific programs in the Sustainability Element.
18. The City has completed a number of programs to address the recommendations of the Air
and Water Quality Element and the Safety Element. Specifically, the City has been proactive in
promoting programs to improve our storm water management practices such as the 2014
comprehensive update to the Integrated Pest Management Program. The City is working with
the County of Marin to address stringent changes to the State water quality standards. A
major update of the City’s urban runoff pollution prevention ordinance is in-the-works to
address the mandates of the City’s NPDES Phase II Storm water Permit.
19. To promote and reinforce the recommendations of the Governance Element, the City recently
approved the Community Engagement Action Plan. This plan lists a number of actions for
improving public communication, outreach, transparency and open government. In addition,
through these past years, the City has continued to improve and expand on current
communication tools such as the City’s website, social media, The City Manager’s Newsletter,
which now has 10,000 subscribers, and emergency text or email notification via Nixle.
20. During this period, State laws went into effect dissolving all established Redevelopment
Agencies, statewide. In response, the City was successful in dissolving the San Rafael
Redevelopment Agency by settling the debt to the State and forming a new “Successor
Agency” to oversee many tasks and responsibilities of the dissolved agency.
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Accompanying the Accomplishments listed above, the following amendments were made to the City’s
General Plan are listed in Table 2. They range from land use changes to updates in the Elements. The list
of amendments is also available on the City’s website under the General Plan 2020 page
(http://www.cityofsanrafael.org/commdev-planning-topics-gp2020/).
Table 2. General Plan Amendments since 2004
Date
City Council
Resolution/
Planning File No.
Element/Policy Description
12/6/04 Reso # 11682
File #: GPA04-001
Land Use Map Revised land use designation for 1540 Fifth
Ave from 5MR/0 to P/QP.
7/2/07 Reso # 12300
File #: GPA07-003
CON-18f Added new policy re. green building
requirements for civic buildings
8/6/07 Reso #: 12331
File #: GPA05-001
Land Use Map Revised Loch Lomond Marina land use
designations, altering the boundaries of the
Marine Related, Neighborhood Commercial,
and Conservation land use districts.
12/3/07 Reso #: 12402
GPA07-001
C-5 Modified C-5 to add a LOS standard for the
intersection of Third Ave/ Union St.
8/18/08 Reso #: 12557
File #: GPA07-005
Land Use Map Revised land use designation for 226
Magnolia Ave (Dominican University) from
Large Lot Residential to P/QP land use
designation.
5/16/11 Reso #: 13142
File #: GPA07-004
Land Use Element
Exhibit 11
NH-59
Amend Light Industrial/Office land use
description to allow regional serving
specialty retail when contained in a building
of 50,000 sqft in size on a lot greater than 10
acres.
Amend this policy to allow “regional serving
special retail uses”.
7/18/11 Reso #: 13212
File #: GPA11-001
Housing Element
New Sustainability
Element (SU)
CON-3
Various
Update of the Housing Element for 2009-
2014 (5 year update).
Add a new Sustainability Element.
Amendment to Conservation element to
modify CON-3 (Wetland Preservation
policy).
Amend various elements of General Plan to
eliminate the City’s Project Selection
Process.
1/5/15 Reso #: 13863
File #: GPA14-001
Housing Element Update of the Housing Element for 2015-
2023 (8 year update).
Source: City of San Rafael, City Council Resolution #11682, #12300, #12331, #12402, #12557, #13142, #13212,
#13863
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Summary of Planning Related Updates Since 2004
Adoption of a Sustainability Element
A Sustainability Element was adopted in 2007 to address the City’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP)
and Qualified Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Strategy. The CCAP sets goals and implementation
strategies for achieving a 25 percent reduction of greenhouse gases by 2020 and an 80 percent
reduction by 2050, following State targets. The Sustainability Element aims to promote environmental,
economic and social equity, in concert with strategies through CCAP, to preserve qualities that make San
Rafael a great place to live.
Housing Element Update during the 10-Year Review Period
The 2009-2014 Housing Element, an update to the Housing Element in the General Plan, was adopted in
2011. The City was required by State law to meet the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of
1,403 units assigned by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) for the 2007-2014 RHNA
period. A Housing Element that planned for adequate sites to accommodate the RHNA was adopted by
the City and certified by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
The City obtained certification for the 2009-2014 Housing Element. It featured updated housing data
and an inventory of sites to accommodate the RHNA. The Housing Element was also compliant with new
State mandates, including Senate Bill 2 (2007) – provision for emergency shelters by right.
Subsequently, San Rafael’s Housing Element was updated and certified for the 2015-2023 planning
period. A number of new requirements were met in order to obtain certification and qualify for
transportation funding under Plan Bay Area. In addition to meeting a RHNA of 1,007, the 2015-2023
Housing Element is in compliance with the following legislation:
Senate Bill 2 (emergency shelters by right).
Assembly Bill 1866 (facilitating accessory dwelling unit development and Second Unit Law).
Senate Bill 375 (compatibility with Sustainable Communities Strategy).
Senate Bills 520 and 812 (Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities).
Government Code 65915 (State Density Bonus Law).
The update to the 2009-2014 Housing Element for the 2015-2023 planning period was developed
concurrently with this General Plan 10-year Review and was adopted by City Council on January 5, 2015
then certified by HCD on January 23, 2015.
Loss of Redevelopment
The State’s decision to eliminate redevelopment has significant consequences on the implementation
and continuation of certain General Plan programs. The abrupt end to redevelopment in 2012 left cities
with few options to make up for the elimination of redevelopment agencies in many cities across the
State. The 10-year General Plan Review provides an opportunity to reconsider the policies and programs
designed around redevelopment leads. Several programs are targeted for removal because the
Redevelopment Agency is no longer available to see them through. Consequently, responsibilities in
related programs were redistributed due to loss of funds and staffing. The Housing Element section
under Program Evaluation by Element describes the required changes resulting from the loss of the
Redevelopment Agency.
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The loss of redevelopment has impaired the ability to carry out numerous Housing Element programs
without changes to bring them up to date, as shown in the Housing Element section of Program
Evaluations by Element.
Completion of Station Area Plans and Design Plans
With the adoption of the Downtown Station Area Plan, the Civic Center Station Area Plan and the Canal
Conceptual Design Plan, several programs require updates to account for these new planning
documents (see Table 3. References to Station Area and Design Plans). The planning for the Sonoma
Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) rail lines and the future opening of stations in San Rafael’s Civic Center
and Downtown have created opportunities for station area planning and development. The acceptance
of the Downtown Station Area Plan and the Civic Center Station Area Plan established the framework to
create mixed-use environments supported by transit, which touches upon the policies and programs in
various areas of the General Plan.
Table 3. References to Station Area and Design Plans
General Plan Element General Plan Program Proposed Action
Housing H-18g. Revisions to the Parking
Standards
Remove. Program content will be
addressed in the revised program
“Downtown Station Area Plan”
Housing H-22a. Higher Density Infill
Housing Near Transit
Completed. Integrate within revised
programs “Downtown Station Area Plan”
and “Civic Center Station Area Plan.”
Housing H-22b. Station Area Plans Completed. Integrate within revised
programs “Downtown Station Area Plan”
and “Civic Center Station Area Plan.”
Neighborhoods NH-15a.Downtown Vision Completed
Neighborhoods NH-36a. Zoning Ordinance Completed, Carry Forward
Neighborhoods NH-36b. Transit Service
Completed, Carry Forward,
Amend Text to include supporting SMART
and pursuing implementation of the
Downtown Station Area Plan
Neighborhoods NH-74a. Design Plan and Vision
for the Canalfront
Carry Forward, Amend Text to reference
Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan
Community Design CD-1b. Finer Grain Design
Qualities
Carry Forward, Amend Text to reference
Downtown and Civic Center Station Area
Plans
Community Design CD-5a. Views
Carry Forward, Amend Text to reference
Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan
Community Design CD-20a. Sign Ordinance Carry Forward
Sustainability SU-1a. Transportation
Alternatives
Carry Forward
Noise N-6b. Mixed-Use Completed, Delete Program
Neighborhoods Policy NH-88. Sonoma Marin
Area Rail Transit (SMART) Station
Amend Text
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Overview of Required Actions on Programs
For most General Plan Elements, programs will simply be carried forward into the updated General Plan.
The general success or lack of significant action during the planning period calls for many programs to be
continued. This may involve changing the timeframe from short-term to long-term. For example, the
majority of short-term programs under the Community Design Element are proposed for modification,
and eight of these programs would be changed from short-term to long-term time frames due to lack of
staff resources or partial implementation. Table 4. Summary of Actions for Short-Term Programs shows
the number of programs under each Element that can be carried forward.
Programs requiring changes can generally be grouped into three categories: completed, deleted and
revised. Text amendments and revisions are common changes that respond to new circumstances, such
as the completion of station area plans, SMART service, or changes in responsible parties. All text
changes to policies and programs will require a General Plan amendment action, which will be prepared
and processed following the 10-year review of the General Plan.
For several Elements, substantial changes require adjustments in program text. Programs may be
deleted for a number of reasons, including the dissolution of redevelopment, other circumstances that
render the program unviable, and completion of the program. Three programs are proposed for
deletion because of redevelopment, four programs proposed actions that are already being done as a
matter of course, and seven programs would be deleted for other reasons unrelated to completion. A
program’s completion is the most common reason for the deletion. Adoption of ordinances and plans
has led to the completion of several programs in Land Use, Housing, Neighborhood, Community Design,
Infrastructure, Sustainability, Conservation, and Air and Water Quality.
Table 4. Summary of Actions for Short-Term Programs
General Plan Element
Short-Term/
Annual
Programs
Carried Forward
into Updated
General Plan
Completed/ Delete/Revise
Land Use 10 7 3
Housing (adopted in 2015) n/a n/a n/a
Neighborhood 25 12 13
Community Design 19 9 10
Economic Vitality 8 7 1
Circulation 7 6 1
Infrastructure 6 4 2
Governance 4 2 2
Sustainability 37 24 13
Culture and Arts 11 5 6
Parks and Recreation 12 9 3
Safety 4 3 1
Noise 4 3 1
Open Space 0 0 0
Conservation 10 8 2
Air and Water Quality 2 1 1
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Program Evaluation by Element
The following provides an overview of the proposed updates to programs throughout the General Plan.
Land Use Element
Ten programs have short-term timeframes in the Land Use Element. Seven of these programs are being
carried forward into an updated Land Use Element through a General Plan amendment; Table 5
describes the continuing actions.
Programs related to Urban Service boundaries were carried forward, with an announcement from the
Marin Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) in late 2013 it will initiate a boundary review study.
One of the areas targeted for study is the unincorporated “Country Club” neighborhood, located east of
Montecito.
Programs proposing zoning ordinance revisions have either been completed or are in the process of
being completed. These programs include work on the zoning of child care facilities and completing
industrial land use designations changes. Programs with short-term timeframes that require continuing
long-term activities, such as review and comments on projects as they come in, were continued (See
Table 5. Land Use Programs Continued below).
Table 5. Land Use Programs Continued
General Plan Program Continuing Action
LU-4a. Reasonable Interim Uses. Application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis
LU-5a. Urban Service Area Review. Boundary review study will be initiated by County
LU-6a. LAFCO. Marin LAFCO initiating a countywide study of
special districts and unincorporated areas
LU-7a. Development Adjacent to San Rafael. City reviews on such applications as they come
LU-19a. Zoning for Childcare Programs. City staff is currently reviewing an ordinance
LU-19b. Fees for Childcare Programs. City staff is currently reviewing an ordinance
LU-23d. Industrial Zoning Districts. Not completed
Three programs have been proposed for deletion and one program has been proposed for a timeframe
change. LU-20a Hotel Zoning and LU-21a Ministorage Zoning both have provisions that were amended
in the zoning ordinance and are now considered complete. These programs are recommended for
removal. LU-23c. Live/Work Regulations will be continued because the City has not received interest to
warrant revision of the ordinance. See Table 6 below for a brief summary.
Table 6. Land Use Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
LU-20a. Hotel Zoning. Completed, Delete Program
LU-21a. Ministorage Zoning. Completed, Delete program
LU-23c. Live/work Regulations. Change to Long-term
The General Plan Land Use map will also be updated to correct instances where the land use map and
parcel map exhibit inconsistencies. The map revisions would include corrections to the land use
designation of parcels that currently do not have designations reflecting established land use categories.
For instance, parcels that were identified as “Right-of-Way” or “Median” in the Geographic Information
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Systems (GIS) map, which do not correspond to approved land use designations, will be revised to an
established category such as “Public/Quasi-Public” or a category that is consistent with the surrounding
land use. Another mapping revision involves setting a designation for parcels outlined in the bay and
would include the adoption of a new land use category. Waterway and submerged tideland parcels in
the bay are identified as “Water” parcels, although “Water” currently is not a formal land use
designation. Through a General Plan Amendment, the “Water” land use designation would be
established for these parcels, to coincide with a “W” (Water) zoning district.
Housing Element
The 2015-2023 Housing Element was adopted by City Council on January 5, 2015. The Element was
certified by the Department of Housing and Community Development on January 23, 2015,
acknowledging that the Housing Element complied with the processes established under State Housing
Element Law (Government Code 65580-65589.8) and addressed projected housing needs. Following the
streamlined update process provided by HCD, the City updated the background information, policies
and programs using the previously certified Housing Element as a foundation. This process promoted
targeted updates that allowed the City to build upon the policy and program framework of the 2009-
2014 Housing Element, and as such, carried forward successful policy directions and encouraged a
reevaluation on how existing programs can be modified for the new Housing Element.
As part of the 2015-2023 Housing Element update, a number of changes were made after considering
program accomplishments and analyzing methods to more effectively structure programs. The 2009-
2014 Housing Element contained a total of 82 programs. Since the adoption of the last Housing Element,
several programs have become unviable. Other programs could be consolidated with related programs
in order to streamline the programs section. A number of changes were made after considering program
accomplishments and analyzing methods to more effectively structure programs. The Housing Element
programs section was reorganized with the consolidation, removal and revision of certain programs, but
the principles and intentions of these programs mostly remained the same. The Housing Element
policies section has been simplified to 49 programs.
Several new programs were added into the 2015-2023 Housing Element programs: H-7c “Preserving
Existing Rental housing Affordable to Low Income Households through Ongoing Affordability
Restrictions,” H-9c “Housing Opportunities for Persons Living with Disabilities,” H-11b “Junior Second
Units,” H-15b “Civic Center Station Area Plan,” and H-19a “Sustainable Policies and Programs.” H-7c
describes affordability monitoring activities to be conducted. H-9c reflects the City’s desire to cooperate
with Golden Gate Regional Center (a state-funded nonprofit organization serving individuals with
developmental disabilities in Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo counties) to implement an outreach
program. H-11b introduced junior second units as an affordable housing alternative that can count
towards the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation. H-15b addresses development around the Civic
Center area. H-19a links the policies and programs in the Sustainability Element to the Housing Element
in order to promote the application of resource conservation policies in housing development. Some
programs also received notable revisions. H-17d “Efficient Project Review” now includes text referencing
concurrent processing, density bonus incentive information, and CEQA exemption allowance H-18a
“Inclusionary Housing Nexus Study” includes a nexus study component before any ordinance
amendments.
With the recent adoption of the 2015-2023 Housing Element in January 5, 2015, the General Plan
Amendment following this 10-year review will not include edits to the Housing Element.
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Neighborhoods Element
The changes proposed for Neighborhood Element programs include the following:
All short-term programs that are proposed for deletion were completed.
Programs are changed from short-term to long-term if there has been limited progress.
All programs under the policy NH-118 Loch Lomond Marina require text amendments to reflect
that implementation has started but the project has not been completed.
In addition to the proposed amendment of 13 short-term programs in the Neighborhood Element, three
long-term policies would also require updates:
The completion of San Rafael Corporate Center affects the Lindaro Office District and as a result
NH-39 Lindaro Office District Design Considerations.
NH-86 Design Considerations for Development in the Vicinity of the Civic Center will need to be
updated to reflect the completion of the Civic Center Station Area Plan.
With the construction of the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit line and the completion of the
station area plans, NH-88 Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) Station requires text
amendments to show the changes.
The Table 7 and Table 8 below provide a summary of proposed short-term program and policy changes
in the Neighborhoods Element.
Table 7. Neighborhood Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
NH-18a. Hotel/Cineplex Amend Text - responsibility of lead staff
NH-36b. Transit Service Amend Text to a) include supporting
efforts by SMART; b) implement
Downtown Station Area Plan
NH-54a. Expansion of the NC District Completed, Delete Program
NH-74a. Design Plan and Vision for the Canal front Amend Text to reference Canalfront
Conceptual Design Plan
NH-75a. Zoning Ordinance (Canal Waterfront Use) Completed, Delete Program
NH-76a. Maritime Service Demand Change to Long-term, and remove City
Manager lead
NH-94b. University Housing Change to Long-term
NH-95a. Barbier Park/Gold Hill Completed, Delete Program
NH-118a. Project Design and Review (Loch
Lomond Marina)
Amend Text - Reference that project
review process and approved design
comply with this program
NH-118b. Common Area Maintenance (Loch
Lomond Marina)
Amend Text – Reference
implementation
NH-118c. Bird-watching (Loch Lomond Marina) Amend Text – Approved project
implements the program
NH-119a. Rezone Marin Islands Completed, Delete Program
NH-156a. Eichler Homes Change to Long-term
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Table 8. Neighborhood Policy Text Revisions Required
General Plan Policy Proposed Action
NH-39. Lindaro Office District Design Guidelines Amend Text – Lindaro Office Center is
the only development site and will be
built-out soon
NH-86. Design Considerations for Development in
the Vicinity of the Civic Center
Amend Text - reference completed
Civic Center Station Area Plan
NH-88. Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART)
Station
Amend Text – SMART scheduled for
operation in 2015
Community Design Element
Most short-term programs are reported as having no action required or are on-going in the Community
Design Element. As a result, the majority are being carried forward. The timeframes of many short-term
programs are proposed to be extended to reflect the on-going status. More than half of the short-term
programs in the Community Design Element will need to be changed from a short-term to a long-term
timeframe. Table 9 below provides a summary of those actions.
Table 9. Community Design Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
CD-3b. Development Standards (Neighborhoods) Change to Long-term
CD-4a. Historic Resources Change to Long-term
CD-4b. Adaptive Reuse Change to Long-term
CD-4c. Sign Ordinance Change to Long-term
CD-4d. Design Guidelines Change to Long-term
CD-5a. Views Amend to reference Canalfront Plan
CD-10b. Compatibility of Patterns Change to Long-term
CD-10c. Successful Design Portfolio Change to Long-term
CD-11a. Compatibility of Building Patterns Change to Long-term
CD-12a. Landscaping Change to Long-term
Economic Vitality Element
In the Economic Vitality Element, nearly all short-term programs are proposed for continuation because
they are on-going actions. Several short-term accomplishments can be reported:
EV-2e. Street Vendors – A mobile vendor ordinance was adopted.
EV-7a. Green Business Practices – Sustainability webpages were launched. The obtained a green
business certification for City Hall. Green business is promoted through the Chamber of
Commerce by City staff.
EV-8a. Industrial Zoning – Industrial zoning has been retained.
EV-11a. Home Occupations – Partially implemented. Zoning amendments have been drafted.
EV-13a. Zoning Regulations (Business Areas) – Zoning amendments have broadened allowances
in commercial and industrial areas. The City is drafting of a more streamlined review process.
EV-15b. Neighborhood Upgrades – Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements have
been made and continue to be incorporated into individual development projects.
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EV-17a. Pre-submittal Process – Pre-application and conceptual review has been promoted.
Processes were updated since their development.
The only program proposed for removal is EV-8b. Day Laborers, which proposes identifying a center of
employment for day laborers. No action has been taken on the program.
Table 10. Economic Vitality Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
EV-8b. Day Laborers Delete Program
Circulation Element
The Circulation Element includes one program (Program C-6a. Update Proposed Circulation
Improvements) that is an on-going task requiring an update to exhibits (e.g., Exhibit 21 – Major Planned
Circulation Improvements) within the element. There are also six short-term programs, all of which are
proposed to be carried forward. Most of the short-term programs have achieved major milestones but
require some ongoing efforts, including:
C-2a. Local Transportation Tax – Measure A (local ½ cent tax) passed in 2004. Securing
additional funding for transportation within the County is an ongoing process.
C-11e. Reduction of Single Occupancy Vehicles –The City has made infrastructure improvements
including bike lockers, bike racks and pedestrian facilities. It has also pursued preferential
parking, bike facilities and bus shelters in projects.
C-20a. Transit Hubs – The Downtown Station Area Plan and Civic Center Station Area Plan
passed in 2012. The City will continue to collaborate with transit agencies and make
infrastructure improvements.
C-26c. Bicycle Parking – The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan has been updated since 2004.
Implementation has been underway.
C-27b. Prioritizing Pedestrian Improvements – Significant infrastructure improvements have
been made. Public Works continues to meet with the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee
every six months.
C-33b. Commuter Parking – Commuter services are considered in Station Area Plans. Minimal
action has been taken so far with lack of available staff time and funding.
In addition, a new program has been proposed for the use of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) as a
measurement to determine the environmental impacts of transportation. The program will link City
policies to updated CEQA guidelines that will go into effect in January 2016 (SB 743). For CEQA review of
development projects, the VMT methodology will replace the LOS methodology. However, LOS policies
and programs will remain in the General Plan, and projects will continue to be reviewed for consistency
with these policies and programs. See the Circulation table in Appendix A.
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Table 11. Circulation Program Actions Required
General Plan Policy/ Program Proposed Action
C-5.1. Alternative Measurements of Traffic Impact New proposed policy responding to
Senate Bill 743, addressing use of VMT
as a measure of transportation impact
C-5.1a. Develop a VMT Analysis New program for Policy C-5.1 to use
VMT in traffic impact assessment
where appropriate
Infrastructure Element
Two short-term programs have been proposed for removal in the Infrastructure Element, see Table 12.
Infrastructure Short-Term Program Actions Required) I-12a. Consolidation of Services has been proposed
for removal. I-15b. Telecommunication Ordinance has been completed. A wireless telecommunications
ordinance was adopted in 2004, which has set up permitting procedures and regulations for wireless
infrastructure and the Ordinance has been amended two times to reflect changes in Federal regulations.
Table 12. Infrastructure Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
I-12a. Consolidation of Services Delete Program
I-15b. Telecommunication Ordinance Completed, Delete Program
Governance Element
Four short-term programs were listed under the Governance Element. Two of the programs were
implemented to some degree and will be carried forward. The accomplishments are listed below:
G-18c. Zoning Allowance (Support for Special Needs Groups) – Partially implemented.
Transitional and supportive housing definitions were amended in the ordinance.
G-24b. New Revenue Sources for City Services and Infrastructure
o Measure S, ½ cent local sales tax, passed in 2005.
o Measure E, local sales tax to ¾ cent, passed in November 2013.
o Measure C, a Special Library Parcel Tax, passed in 2010.
o Measure I, a special paramedic services tax, passed in November 2010.
The other two short-term programs outlined in the Governance Element require minor text
amendments as described in Table 13 below.
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Table 13. Governance Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
G-9b. Recognition and Feedback (Advisory
Committees)
Amend Text – Remove “Conduct exit
interviews with board and commission
members when they complete their
service to assess commission
performance.”
G-12b. Voter Participation (Local Elections) Amend Text – Website completed;
Sustainability Element
Considering the Sustainability Element is relatively new, most short-term programs will be continued.
However, the City has reported on a number of accomplishments on several programs that need to be
amended or revised to carry them forward. The accomplishments include the following:
In 2009, the City adopted the Climate Change Action Plan.
The City updated its greenhouse gas inventory in 2013 and expects to update the inventory
every five years.
Green building regulations were amended in 2013 to replace the LEED/Build-it-Green
regulations with statewide CalGreen regulations.
A Sustainability Coordinator position was created in 2011 and made full-time in 2013.
A number of outreach efforts were implemented, including a Resilient Neighborhoods and
Businesses program, a sustainability webpage and green festivals.
A Construction and Demolition Debris Ordinance and a Single-Use Carryout Bag Reduction
ordinance were adopted.
In 2011, the City adopted a Zero Waste Goal and Strategic Plan.
As of November 2013, a green purchasing policy has been put in place.
The City has encourage the installation of new charging stations, amending an ordinance to
incorporate charging station requirements and installing charging stations at several public
facilities.
The proposed removal of most programs is due to adoption of ordinance amendments
proposed in Sustainability Element programs.
Two programs (SU-13f and SU-13g) related to the installation of street lights and traffic signals
around the City have been partially implemented and will be carried forward.
The following table outlines the proposed amendments to the short-term programs in the Sustainability
Element to reference the accomplishments.
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Table 14. Sustainability Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
SU-3b. Charging Stations for Private Facilities. Completed, Delete Program
SU-4b. PACE Financing.
Completed, Delete Program
SU-4d. Wind and Solar. Completed, Delete Program
SU-5a. Green Building Regulations Completed, Delete Program
SU-6c. Parking Lot Landscaping. Completed, Delete Program
SU-9a. Zero Waste. Amend Text - Revise program text to
acknowledge adopted goal/strategic plan
SU-9f. Construction Debris. Completed, Delete Program
SU-9h. Non-Recyclable Single Use Items. Completed, Delete Program
SU-9i. Commercial and Multi-Family Recycling. Completed, Delete Program
SU-12d. Sustainability Coordinator. Completed, Delete Program
SU-12e. Sustainability Commission. Amend Text - Reference the CCAP
Quarterly Forum.
SU-13d. Green Purchasing. Completed, No Recommendation Yet
SU-13e. Energy Audits Municipal Buildings Completed, Delete Program
Culture and Arts Element
Approximately half of the short-term programs in the Culture and Arts Element were completed. The
County completed the Marin Center Renaissance Conceptual Plan, and the City completed phases of the
Falkirk Master Plan. One program has been proposed for change to a long-term timeframe, as
referenced in Table 15 below.
Table 15. Culture and Arts Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
CA-1a. Community Vision of Culture and Arts in
San Rafael
Completed, Delete Program
CA-1b. Promotion of Cultural Offerings Completed, Delete Program
CA-6c. Community Art Contributions Completed, Delete Program
CA-8a. Marin Center Completed, Delete Program
CA-9a. Falkirk Master Plan Completed, Delete Program
CA-13a. Inventory Update Change to Long-term
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Parks and Recreation Element
The Parks and Recreation Element has 12 short-term programs, nine of which are proposed for
continuation. The programs listed below can be carried forward but will require funding sources to
implement:
PR-3a. Neighborhood Recreational Needs.
PR-4a. All-Weather Fields.
PR-6a. Community Center Improvements.
PR-7a. Community Park Improvements.
PR-8a. Neighborhood Park Improvements.
PR-24a. Rental Residential Contributions.
Three programs are proposed for removal, of which two were due to completion and one was due to a
dropped project.
Completed: PR-11a. High School and University Pools – San Rafael residents now have access to
pools in San Rafael schools.
Completed: PR-16a. Community Gardens – The Terra Linda Community Garden and the Canal
Community Garden opened in 2013, with Canal Alliance serving as a managing partner.
Dropped: PR-7b. Marin History Museum – The expansion program for the Marin History
Museum has been dropped by the museum.
Table 16. Parks and Recreation Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
PR-7b. Marin History Museum Delete program
PR-11a. High School and University Pools Completed, Delete Program
PR-16a. Community Gardens Completed, Delete Program
Safety Element
Many short-term and long-term programs require amendments to respond to changes that have
occurred since the adoption of the 2004 General Plan. The following list, Table 17 and Table 18 provide a
summary of proposed edits to short-term and long-term programs:
The Fire Department reviews new development proposals for hazardous materials to determine
compliance but CUPA and other agencies are involved in grander hazardous material matters.
Changes need to be made to the several policies: S-12 Use of Environmental Databases in
Development Review; S-13 Potential Hazardous Soils Conditions; and S-14 Hazardous Materials
Storage, Use and Disposal.
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) neighborhood training program has also
replaced the Disaster Area Response Team (DART) and text amendments are required to reflect
the change.
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Table 17. Safety Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
S-13b. Hazardous Soils Cleanup Amend, or remove - Fire Dept. reviews
development proposals for hazardous
materials to determine compliance but
CUPA and other agencies are involved
in greater efforts.
Table 18. Safety Long-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
S-12. Use of Environmental Databases in
Development Review
Amend Text - Fire Dept. no longer has
capabilities listed.
S-14. Hazardous Materials Storage, Use and
Disposal
Amend Text - Fire Dept. no longer has
capabilities listed and the CUPA
program has relocated to Marin County
DPW.
S-25. Disaster Preparedness Amend Text - DART has been replaced
with CERT.
S-26. Public Safety Training Amend Text - DART has been replaced
with CERT.
S-30. Fire Protection Ordinance Amend Text - Ordinance #1856 adopts
WUI standards in SRMC Chapter 4.12.
S-33. Training of Citizen Police Academy and
DART Graduates
Amend Text - DART has been replaced
with CERT.
S-40. Neighborhood Educational Program Amend Text - DART has been replaced
with CERT.
Noise Element
In the Noise Element, some measures that have been implemented since the 2004 adoption of the
General Plan 2020 include the following:
Council directed staff to proceed to establish “Quiet Zones” along the SMART corridor and at-
grade crossings and in residential areas bordering the rail line for the SMART initial operating
segment.
The use of rubberized asphalt material for repaving Point San Pedro Road, which has noise-
reducing qualities.
Collaboration with the County of Marin to install sound attenuating material along the full
length of Point San Pedro Road from Union to Biscaynne. The material will be evaluated for use
in other areas after completion.
In addition, Caltrans completed the US101 “Gap Closure” project through Central San Rafael, which
included relocating and re-building the noise walls flanking the freeway. The new noise wall
construction included the installation of more up-to-date noise buffering measures, including a surface
application that absorbs, rather than deflects, noise.
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Of the four short-term programs, only one - N-6b Mixed-Use - is proposed for removal, as it is
completed, see Table 19. The completion of office and commercial zoning to allow mixed use near
transit and the adoption of station area plans in 2012 has met action items in Program N-6b.
Table 19. Noise Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
N-6b. Mixed-Use Completed, Delete Program
Open Space Element
There are no short-term programs in the Open Space Element. Open Space Element accomplishments
are reported in Table 1 at the beginning of this report.
Conservation Element
The Conservation Element has 12 short-term programs, of which three programs are recommended for
removal. The completion of the programs was due to the adoption of the Green Building ordinance and
the employee commute program.
Since the 2004 adoption of General Plan 2020, the City adopted a green building ordinance in 2010 and
updated the ordinance in 2013. The 2013 green building code amendments deleted the Leadership in
Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) standards and replaced them with the more universally-applied
Cal Green standards, implemented under State mandate in 2010 to address green building construction
practices for new residential and non-residential buildings. The City has also taken further steps to
promote energy conservation through reduction of building permit fees for roof-mounted photovoltaic
(solar) panels.
The City has been raising awareness of conservation among staff and switching over to energy efficient
equipment.
A “Green Team” was established to promote recycling and resource-efficiency.
Installation of energy efficient equipment in City Hall has increased energy efficiency.
The adoption of the Employee Commute Program in 2013 promoted walking, bicycling,
carpooling, taking transit and using energy-efficient vehicle to get to work.
Hybrid vehicles and biodiesel equipment were incorporated into the Public Works fleet.
Table 20 outlines the short-term programs proposed for deletion, all of which are due to completion.
Table 20. Conservation Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
CON-18a. Energy-efficient Homes Completed, Delete Program
CON-18e. LEED Program Completed, Delete Program
CON-23a. City Carpool Completed, Delete Program
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Since many programs in the Conservation Element share similar goals and interests with the
Sustainability Element, moving programs from the Conservation Element to the Sustainability Element –
possibly starting from CON-17 onward – may make sense for both Elements.
Air and Water Quality Element
The City has many provisions in its plans and ordinance to directly or indirectly improve air and water
quality, as described in the Air and Water Quality Element. Most programs are long-term or on-going,
but accomplishments were made in the two short-term programs:
AW-3a. Particulate Matter Pollution Reduction is still on-going as the City considers new ways to
reduce air pollution.
AW-4b. Fireplaces and Wood burning Stoves has been completed and will be removed. In 2007,
the City adopted a Municipal Code amendment regulating emissions through wood burning.
Table 21. Air and Water Quality Short-Term Program Actions Required
General Plan Program Proposed Action
AW-4b. Fireplaces and Woodburning Stoves Completed, Delete Program
Next Steps
This report was prepared to provide a review of the changes the city has experienced over the past ten
years and the accomplishments that have been made, with the purpose of amending programs within
the Elements of the City’s General Plan. The Program Evaluation by Element section of this report
provides summaries of required program actions; Appendix A contains more detailed descriptions on
proposed program changes for the General Plan Amendments.
The preparation of this 10-Year Status Report has established the basis to also carry out Land Use Map
amendments. The refinement of the Land Use Map will correct inconsistencies to ensure that land uses
reflect the intended General Plan designations. When the proposed changes in this 10-Year Status
Report and the Land Use Map adjustments are incorporated into the General Plan, they will be brought
back to the Planning Commission and City Council for review and adoption. The process to implement
the General Plan Amendments begins with the approval of this 10-Year Status Report by Planning
Commission and City Council.
APPENDIX A: General Plan Review Matrices with Department Responses
The following tables outline the contributions from department directors that are invested in the
General Plan and the proposed updates to programs throughout the General Plan. 1
1 Note that the format of the Housing Element table varies from other tables in the following section as a result of
the 2015-2023 Housing Element update. Since the programs are part of the recently adopted Element, there are
no recommendations for changes. A brief description of the update is provided to note the change from the
previous Element. In addition, task summaries are presented to assist in annual Housing Element reporting to the
State.
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APPENDIX A | LAND USE
APPENDIX A: General Plan Review Matrices with Department Responses
LAND USE
Goal 1: Growth to Enhance Quality of Life
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
LU-1 Planning Area
and Growth to
2020
CD, PW, ED Ongoing LU-1a. Five-Year
Growth Assessment
CD: LU-1a. Program being implemented as part of this 10-year
review. No major changes in growth assumptions included in this
review. However, traffic mitigation improvement list is being
updated as part of this effort.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
LU-2 Development
Timing
CD, PW, F, P,
A
Ongoing LU-2a. Development
Review. (Long-Term)
CD: LU-2a. On-going. Timing of development reviewed for each new
development project, particularly in the traffic-sensitive areas of
Downtown, East San Rafael and Northgate/North San Rafael.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
LU-3 Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
LU-4 Reasonable
Interim Use of
Property
CD Short-term LU-4a. Reasonable
Interim Uses.
(establish uses that
allow for interim
uses in areas with
limited traffic
capacity)
CD: LU-4a. Completed. Zoning ordinance includes allowances for
reasonable, interim land uses in most zoning districts through temp
Use Permit. Application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
San Rafael General Plan: 10-year Report Card
Review of progress made on short-term programs and select long-term
programs.
Departments:
A: City Attorney
CD: Community Development
CM: City Manager
CS: Community Services
ED: Economic Development
F: Fire
P: Police
PW: Public Works
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APPENDIX A | LAND USE
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
LU-5 Urban Service
Area
CD Short-term LU-5a. Urban Service
Area Review
CD: LU-5a. Adjustments to the Urban Service Area boundaries were
made in 2006 to exclude the Silveira/St. Vincent’s properties in
North San Rafael. In late 2013, Marin LAFCO staff reported that a
boundary review study will be initiated for the County.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
LU-6 Annexation CD Short-term LU-6a. LAFCO
(remove St. Vincent’s
and Silveira
properties from
Sphere of Influence)
CD: LU-6a. Discussions with Marin LAFCO staff have begun to
implement this policy. In 2006, amendments were made to the
City’s Urban Service Area and Sphere of Influence boundaries to
exclude the Silveira/St. Vincent properties. Marin LAFCO initiating a
countywide study of special districts and unincorporated areas, and
will include study of whether the already developed unincorporated
islands should be annexed into the City of San Rafael.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
LU-7 Land Use
Planning in
Surrounding
Jurisdictions
CD Short-term LU-7a. Development
Adjacent to San
Rafael
CD: LU-7a. On-going. As development projects are proposed near or
adjacent to the City of San Rafael, the City reviews and comments
on such applications. Since the adoption of the San Rafael General
Plan 2020 in 2004, the City reviewed and commented on projects
such as the San Rafael Quarry Reclamation Plan and Operations, the
Larkspur Station Area Plan, and 650 North San Pedro Road, among
others.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
LU-8
thru
LU-18
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 2: Balance and Diversity
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
LU-19 Childcare CD Short-term LU-19a. Zoning for
Childcare Programs
(allowable in all
zones except hillside
resource res., hillside
res, water and
open),
CD: LU-19a. Completed and in-process. Zoning Ordinance
amendments were made in 2005 which allow childcare centers in a
broader range of zoning districts. City staff is currently reviewing
and will be proposing zoning ordinance changes to streamline the
land use approval process for large child day care homes.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
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APPENDIX A | LAND USE
LU-19b. Fees for
Childcare Programs
(waive application
and permit fees, and
possibly traffic
mitigation fees, for
childcare centers)
CD: LU-19b. As noted under Program LU-19a above, City staff is
currently reviewing and proposing zoning ordinance changes to
streamline land use permit review for large child care homes. This
effort includes a proposal to lower the level of permit review, which
includes a substantially-lower permit fee.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
LU-20 Hotels, Motels
and Inns
CD Short-term LU-20a. Hotel Zoning
(incorporate height
bonus and FAR
exemption)
CD: LU-20a. Completed. Zoning ordinance has been amended to
include a height bonus and FAR exemption for hotel uses proposed
in commercial zoning districts.
Recommendation: Delete program.
LU-21 Ministorage
and Storage
CD Short-term LU-21a. Ministorage
Zoning (use
allowance and
location limitation)
CD: LU-21b. Completed. Zoning ordinance has been amended to
incorporate allowances and locational limitations for mini- and self-
storage land uses.
Recommendation: Delete program.
LU-22 Long-term
/Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
LU-23 Land Use Map
and Categories
CD Short-term LU-23c. Live/Work
Regulation (designed
for combined res
and business),
LU-23d. Industrial
Zoning Districts
(FAR)
CD: LU-23c. Not started. The City has not received any interest in
live/work type uses .Therefore, the current regulations have not
been updated. Updating will occur when there is more interest and
additional staff resources.
Recommendation: Carry forward and modify time to long-term.
CD: LU-23d. Not completed for Industrial land use designation.
However, in 2009, amendments were made to the Light
Industrial/Office land use designation to incorporate allowance for
regional-serving specialty retail land uses.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A4 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
HOUSING (2015-2023 HOUSING ELEMENT)
Goal 3: Housing Needs
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-1 Housing
Distribution
CD,
ED
Annual H-1a. Annual
Housing
Element Review
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Provide an annual report for public review
that will document:
• San Rafael's annual residential building activity, including
identification of any deed restricted affordable units;
• Progress towards the Regional Housing Needs Allocation
since the start of the planning period; and
• Implementation status of Housing Element programs
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Annual.
H-2 Design that
Fits into the
Neighborhood
Context
CD Mid Term H-2a. Design
Concerns of
Single-Family
Homes.
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Examine and amend, as needed, zoning
regulations and guidelines for single-family homes
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Mid Term (2017).
H-2b.
Compatibility of
Building
Patterns
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Adopt design guidelines to ensure
compatibility of neighborhood building patterns.
Objective: Adopt Residential and Mixed Use Development
Design Guidelines
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Mid Term (2017).
H-3 Public
Information
and
Participation
CD,
ED,
CM
Ongoing/
Annual
H-3a.
Neighborhood
Meetings
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Participate and aid in establishment of
neighborhood meetings for larger development proposals.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-3b.
Information and
Outreach on
Housing Issues
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to provide information to improve
awareness of housing needs, issues and programs.
Responsibility: CM, CD, ED
Timeframe: Annual.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A5 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 3: Housing Needs
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-4 Governmental
and
Community
Collaboration
CD,
ED
Ongoing H-4a. Inter-
Jurisdictional
Housing
Activities and
Resources
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to implement shared
responsibilities, common regulations, coordinated lobbying
efforts and the housing data clearinghouse
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-4b.
Community
Collaboration
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Previously titled
H-7a. Cooperative
Ventures.
Task Summary: Encourage cooperative and joint ventures
between owners, developers, and community non-profit
groups in the provision of affordable housing.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-5 Fair Housing CD,
ED
Ongoing H-5a. Fair
Housing
Program
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Participate in fair housing programs through
dissemination of information, the cooperative agreement
with the County, housing discrimination referrals to Fair
housing Marin, and other efforts.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A6 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 3: Housing Needs
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-6 Funding for
Affordable
Housing
CD,
ED
Ongoing/
Annual
H-6a. In-Lieu
Fees for
Affordable
Housing
Revised from
previous program
H-9c. In-Lieu Fees
for Affordable
Housing.
Expanded
description,
including
projected funding
amounts and
objective to direct
funding towards
acquisition/rehab
rather than new
construction.
Task Summary: Affordable Housing In-Lieu Fees generated
from non-residential development and fees generated from
residential developments are placed in a citywide housing in-
lieu fee fund. Given the relatively limited amount of funding,
the City will focus resources on projects which emphasize
leverage with outside funds and maximize the number and
affordability of units provided.
Objective: Contribute funding towards at least one
affordable rental project for lower income households.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-6b. Funding
Resources
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element. Added
objective to
secure two new
funding sources.
Task Summary: Identify funding for affordable housing.
Objective: Seek to secure at least two new funding sources
and a minimum of $200,000 in outside funds during the
planning period.
Responsibility: ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-6c. Funding
Applications
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: As opportunities for funding become
available, coordinate applications for State and Federal
subsidies for affordable housing and assist in application
preparation and submittal.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Annual.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A7 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-7 Protection of
the Existing
Housing Stock
CD,
ED, A
Varying H-7a.
Condominium
Conversion
Ordinance
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: As stated in the zoning ordinance, prohibit
conversion of existing multifamily rental units to market rate
condominium units unless the city’s rental vacancy rate is
above 5.0 percent
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-7b. Preserving
Existing Rental
Housing
Affordable to
Low Income
Households At
Risk of
Conversion
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element. Updated
scope.
Task Summary: The City will monitor each of the eight at-
risk project's potential affordability expiration, and contact
the non-profit owners within one year of the expiration date
to address any future loss of funding which may put these
units at risk.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Contact non-profit owners within one year of
potential affordability expiration.
H-7c. Preserving
Existing Rental
Housing
Affordable to
Low Income
Households
through
Ongoing
Affordability
Restrictions
New program.
Task Summary: Annual monitoring of over 1,400 units in
forty one publicly and privately owned rental developments.
Objective: For units owned by non-profit agencies, continue
to monitor these units as required by the original funding
source (State, Federal or Redevelopment Agency). For
private units produced pursuant to City inclusionary
requirements, continue to monitor through annual income
and rent certificate from property owners.
Responsibility: ED
Timeframe: Annual.
H-7d. BMR
Resale
Regulations
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to require resale controls on
ownership Below Market Rate (BMR) units. Monitor with
Marin Housing.
Responsibility: ED
Timeframe: Annual.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A8 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-7e. Retention
of Mobilehomes
and
Preservation of
Existing
Mobilehome
Sites
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Retain this housing type where possible.
Continue to implement Mobilehome Rent Stabilization
Ordinance.
Responsibility: A
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-8 Housing
Conditions and
Maintenance
CD,
ED
Varying H-8a.
Apartment
Inspection
Program
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to enforce housing codes for all
apartment projects, three units or larger in size
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Inspect all apartment units in the city every 5
years.
H-8b. Code
Enforcement
and Public
Information
Programs
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Integrated
previous program
H-12a Investigate
and Abate Illegal
Units.
Task Summary: Coordinate housing, building and fire code
enforcement to ensure compliance. Continue to investigate
reported illegal units and abate or legalize where possible.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Bi-weekly meetings of the Development
Coordinating Committee.
H-8c.
Residential
Rehabilitation
Loan Programs
Refined to focus
on CDBG funded
rehabilitation and
added quantified
objectives for
assistance.
Task Summary: As part of the Cooperative Agreement with
the County on CDBG funding, continue to require a portion
of the City’s allocation be directed to the Marin Housing
Authority to provide property improvement loans and
technical assistance to qualified very-low-income
homeowners.
Responsibility: ED
Timeframe: Annual through the CDBG funding process.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A9 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-8d.
Relocation
Assistance
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Require applicants to provide certain limited
relocation assistance, per Section 14.16.279.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-9 Special Needs CD Varying H-9a. Adaptive
Housing
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element. Added
aim to conduct
regular meetings
with design and
construction
industry
members.
Task Summary: Conduct regular "coffee and codes"
meetings with design and construction industry members to
discuss requirements under the Americans with Disabilities
(ADA) Act.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-9b.
Reasonable
Accommodation
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Implement zoning regulations to provide
individuals with disabilities reasonable accommodation in
rules, policies, practices, and procedures.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-9c. Housing
Opportunities
for Persons
Living with
Disabilities
New program. Task Summary: Coordinate with the GGRC to implement an
outreach program.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: 2015
H-9d. Housing
for Extremely
Low Income
Households
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Prioritize some housing fees for the
development of housing affordable to extremely low-
income households.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Annual.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A10 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-
10
Innovative
Housing
Approaches
CD Ongoing H-10a. Co-
Housing,
Cooperatives,
and Similar
Collaborative
Housing
Development
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Provide zoning flexibility through Planned
Development District zoning to allow housing development
that is based on co-housing and similar approaches.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-10b.
Manufacturing
Housing
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to allow quality manufactured
housing in all zoning districts which allow single-family
residences.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-10c. Single
Room
Occupancy
(SRO) Units
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Removed RDA
reference.
Task Summary: Actively promote existing incentives for SRO
apartments.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-10d. Zoning
for Live/Work
Opportunities
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to accommodate live/work
quarters in commercial districts, and allow for flexibility in
parking requirements as supported by a parking study.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A11 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-
11
House Sharing CD Varying H-11a.
Homesharing
and Tenant
Matching
Opportunities
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
“Replaced Marin
Housing
Authority” with
“community
partners.”
Task Summary: Continue to support, and consider increased
participation in, the Shared Housing Project in collaboration
with community partners.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-11b. Junior
Second Units
New program. Task Summary: Coordinate with other Marin jurisdictions in
evaluating appropriate zoning regulations to support in the
creation of "Junior Second Units" of less than 500 square
feet in size.
Objectives: Adopt standards to facilitate junior second units.
Seek to issue permits for at least 20 units during planning
period.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: 2015.
H-
12
Residential
Care Facilities
and Emergency
Shelters
CD,
ED
Varying H-12a.
Countywide
Efforts to
Address
Homeless
Needs
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Work with other jurisdictions and agencies
in Marin to provide emergency, transitional, and supportive
housing and assistance throughout Marin, and continue City
staff's role as the homeless coordinator for the County.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A12 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-12b. Good
Neighborhood
Relations
Involving
Emergency
Shelters and
Residential Care
Facilities
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Eliminated use
permit reference.
Task Summary: Where determined necessary during review
of an application, encourage positive relations between
neighborhoods and providers of emergency shelters and
residential care facilities by requiring shelter outreach
communication programs with the neighborhoods.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: As part of project review.
H-12c.
Residential Care
Facilities
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Regularly update zoning regulations that
govern residential care facilities to conform to Federal and
State laws and to encourage their location in areas that do
not result in overconcentration of care facilities. Explore the
feasibility of requiring affordable units in assisted living
facilities.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Mid Term (2018).
H-12d.
Emergency
Shelters,
Transitional and
Supportive
Housing
Refined to reflect
zoning code
amendment
adopted
consistent with
SB2 to allow
shelters by right
and to explicitly
provide for
transitional and
supportive
housing as a
residential use.
Task Summary: Implement Zoning Code Section 14.16.115
to allow emergency shelters as a permitted use in identified
districts. Implement the City's Zoning Code (Zoning Code
Chapter 14.03 - Definitions), consistent with State and
Federal law, to recognize transitional and supportive
housing as residential uses.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Amend the Zoning Code in 2015.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A13 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-
13
Senior Housing CD,
ED, P,
F, CS
Varying H-13a. Assisted
Living
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Evaluated
establishing
inclusionary
housing
requirements for
assisted living.
Task Summary: Evaluate current zoning regulations for new
assisted living housing, and assess options to regulate as a
residential, rather than a commercial use. Evaluate
establishing inclusionary housing requirements for assisted
living.
Objective: Undertake study of zoning for assisted living, and
amend zoning ordinance accordingly.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Mid Term (2018).
H-13b. “Age-in-
Place”
Assistance
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to provide assistance to older
residents who want to remain independent and in their
homes
Responsibility: CD, P, F,CS
Timeframe: Annual.
H-
14
Adequate Sites CD,
ED,
PW,
PS
Varying H-14a.
Residential and
Mixed Use Sites
Inventory
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element. Retitled
from H-18a.
Affordable
Housing Sites.
Task Summary: Encourage residential development in areas
appropriate and feasible for new housing. These areas are
identified in Appendix B, Housing Element Background,
Summary of Potential Housing Sites.
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-14b. Efficient
Use of
Multifamily
Housing Sites
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Completed zoning
amendment.
Task Summary: Do not approve residential-only
development below minimum designated General Plan
densities unless physical or environmental constraints
preclude its achievement. Residential-only projects should
be approved at the mid- to high-range of the zoning density.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A14 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-14c. Continue
to Implement
Zoning
Provisions to
Encourage
Mixed Use
Refined previous
program H-18d.
Reuse of
Commercial Sites
to promote mixed
use and higher
density
development
within Downtown.
Task Summary: The City will continue to review
development standards to facilitate mixed use, including:
a. Encourage adaptive reuse of vacant buildings and
underutilized sites with residential and mixed use
development on retail, office, and appropriate industrial
sites
b. Explore zoning regulation incentives to encourage lot
consolidation where needed to facilitate housing.
c. Review zoning requirements for retail in a mixed use
building or site, and amend the zoning ordinance as
necessary to allow for residential-only buildings in
appropriate mixed-use zoning districts.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Mid Term (2017).
H-14d. Air
Rights
Development
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Take an active role in evaluating the
feasibility of air rights development and consider possible
zoning incentives for such development.
Responsibility: CD, PW, PS
Timeframe: Long-term
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A15 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-
15
Infill Near
Transit
CD One Year
After the
Start of
SMART
Operation
in the City
H-15a.
Downtown
Station Area
Plan
New Program.
Consolidated from
previous
programs H-18g.
Revisions to the
Parking Standard;
H-21d. Revisions
to Parking
Standards; H-22a.
Higher Density
Infill housing Near
Transit; H-22b.
Station Area
Plans; and H-23a.
Zoning
Amendments to
Encourage Mixed
Use.
Task Summary: Objective: Complete Station Area parking
study and Transit Center relocation analysis in 2015.
Following the commencement of operation of SMART
(2016), study other Station Area Plan recommendations to
increase housing opportunities near transit, and implement
through Zoning Code changes where appropriate. Build
upon lessons learned from the Station Area parking analysis
to re-evaluate parking standards on a citywide basis.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: One Year After the Start of SMART Operation in
the City.
H-15b. Civic
Center Station
Area Plan
New Program Task Summary: Following the commencement of the
operation of SMART (2016), study Station Area Plan
recommendations to facilitate housing opportunities near
transit, and implement through General Plan amendments
and Zoning Code changes where appropriate.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: One Year After the Start of SMART Operation in
the City.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A16 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-
16
Second Units CD Ongoing H-16a. New
Second units
New Program.
Consolidated from
previous
programs H-25a
to H-25f under
policy H-25.
Second Units.
Task Summary: Continue to encourage the provision of
second units to provide housing options for seniors,
caregivers, and other lower and extremely low income
households.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-
17
Regulatory
Processes and
incentives for
Affordable
Housing
CD,
ED
Varying H-17a. State
Density Bonus
Law
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Under Government Code section 65915-
65918, for housing projects of at least five units cities must
grant density bonuses ranging from 5% to 35% (depending
on the affordability provided by the housing project) when
requested by the project sponsor, and provide up to three
incentives or concessions unless specific findings can be
made.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-17b. Height
Bonuses
Maintained
program from
previous Housing
Element.
Task Summary: Continue to offer height bonuses for
projects that include affordable housing units as provided in
Exhibit 10 of the Land Use Element.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Evaluate lot consolidation incentives by 2016.
H-17c. Waiver
or Reduction of
Fees
New program.
Consolidated from
previous
programs H-25a
to H-25f under
policy H-25.
Second Units.
Task Summary: Continue to offer fee waivers and reductions
for applications including affordable units, consistent with
Resolution 11025.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A17 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | HOUSING
Goal 4: A Diverse Housing Supply
# Policy Dept. Timeframe Programs Change from the
2009-2014 HE Projected Activity (Summary of Tasks for Annual Reporting)
H-17d. Efficient
Project
Reviewing
New program.
Consolidated from
previous
programs H-5b.
Constraints and
City Incentives for
Affordable
Housing and H-
18c. CEQA Review.
Timeframe is
ongoing.
Task Summary: San Rafael has fully implemented the
provisions of the Permit Streamlining Act (AB 884), and
provides concurrent processing through over-the-counter
one-stop permitting. Planning staff continue to inform
developers of density bonus incentives for affordable
housing, and consistent with State requirements, any
modified development standards provided as part of a
density bonus incentives package are exempt from the
variance process
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: Ongoing.
H-
18
Inclusionary
Housing
Requirements
CD,
ED
Short-term
(2016)
H-18a.
Inclusionary
Housing Nexus
Study
Refined from
previous program
H-19a.
Inclusionary
Housing.
Task Summary: Conduct an Inclusionary Housing Nexus
Study and engage with the local development community
and affordable housing advocates to evaluate the
Inclusionary Housing Ordinance and in-lieu fee requirements
Responsibility: CD, ED
Timeframe: 2016
H-
19
Energy
Conservation
and
Sustainability
CD Ongoing H-19a.
Sustainability
Policies and
Programs
New program Task Summary: Refer to the Sustainability Element in the
San Rafael General Plan to guide housing development and
renovation.
Responsibility: CD
Timeframe: Ongoing.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A18 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
NEIGHBORHOODS
Goal 5: Distinctive Neighborhoods
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-1 Neighborhood
Planning
CD Short-term NH-1a.
Neighborhood
Planning Process
(develop one where
there is desire)
CD: NH-1a. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
NH-2 New
Development in
Residential
Neighborhoods
CD Short-term NH-2a. Zoning
Ordinance
CD: NH-2a. On-going. The recommendations of this program are
considered when reviewing all new development projects in
neighborhoods.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
NH-3
thru
NH-7
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-8 Parking CD Short-term NH-8d. Zoning
Ordinance Review
(adequate on-site
parking and
screening)
CD: NH-8d. Partially implemented. Since 2004, there have been
several amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to address changing
parking needs and demands. Included in this effort were changes
to the parking requirements and review for the West End Village
District (Downtown), streamlining the process for parking
“modifications” (requested reductions or revisions to parking
requirements on a case-by-case basis) and parking lot landscape
and tree cover requirements.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
NH-9 Nuisance
Vehicles
P Short-term NH-9b. Vehicles as
Residences
P: NH-9b. Continue to implement, and strengthen as necessary,
City ordinances that prohibit overnight residential use of vehicles
within the public right-of-way on public property, and on private
property.
NH-9
thru
NH-14
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A19 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
Goal 6: A Vibrant Downtown
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-16
thru
NH-35
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-15 Downtown
Vision
CD, ED Ongoing NH-15a. Downtown
Vision
CD: NH-15a. Since 2004, the city completed and accepted a
downtown station area plan to address long-term visioning
around the smart station and environs. The plan suggests further
study of zoning changes to address housing and parking in this
area.
NH-18 Economic
Center
ED, CM Short-term NH-18a.
Hotel/Cineplex
(Downtown)
CM: Amend lead staff.
NH-26 Refine Look of
Lincoln,
Hetherton,
Lindaro and
Andersen Drive
PW, P Short-term NH-26a. Pedestrian
Lighting (along
Lincoln Ave)
PW: NH-26a. NTPP Puerto Suello Path to Transit Connector
Project has been designed and is awaiting CalTrans approval prior
to proceeding to construction
Puerto Suello Hill Bikepath, which parallels Highway 101, has been
constructed. This project includes lighting and access as a
separated pathway structure.
Recommendation: (Carry Forward) Continue to improve access to
the downtown transit center and within the City’s main access
routes.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A20 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-36 Hetherton
Office District
CD, PW Short-term NH-36a. Zoning
Ordinance (flexibility
in uses)
NH-36b. Transit
Service (support
efforts to increase)
CD: NH-36a. Partially implemented. Since 2004, the City adopted
Zoning Ordinance amendments to broaden retail use in the
Hetherton Office District. In 2012, the City completed a
Downtown Station Area Plan which encompasses this district. As
the SMART service is being developed and will be in operation in
2015, the Plan suggests further study of changes to this district to
encourage increased mixed-use and residential use and to reduce
and “unbundle” parking requirements.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: NH-36b. Since the 2004 adoption of the San Rafael General
Plan 2020, the SMART service has been approved by
Marin/Sonoma voters and the service is being designed with a
planned commencement of light rail operations in 2015.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Amend program text to: a)
include supporting efforts by SMART; b) pursue implementation of
Downtown Station Area Plan.
PW: NH-36b. The location and functionality of the Bettini Transit
Center is being evaluated based on the new SMART station and
the interaction of the rail system with Bus, Park and Ride and
other functions that influence this specific area of San Rafael. The
City acquired a One Bay area Grant for the study, and
implementation, of modifications to the signal system in this area.
Signal modifications are anticipated to be constructed in 2015
prior to the rail service. Further modification will be necessary for
the Bettini Center and GGT systems in the area utilizing the
Station Area Plan as a guideline.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue support efforts by
all agencies to increase transit services.
NH-37
thru
NH-38
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A21 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-39 CD Long-term The San Rafael Corporate Center, which is the sole development
site in the Lindaro Office District is close to being built-out and has
been purchased by a prominent local company (Bio-Marin) for
ultimate occupancy by a single tenant.
NH-40 Second/Third
Mixed-Use
District
CD Short-term NH-40a. Zoning
Ordinance (flexibility
in uses)
CD: NH-40a. Partially implemented. Since the 2004 adoption to
the General Plan 2020, there have been several minor changes to
this district to broaden allowable land uses.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
NH-41
thru
NH-53
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-54 Medway/Vivian
Redevelopment
CD Short-term NH-54a. Expansion of
the NC District
(encourage
neighborhood-
serving commercial
and housing)
CD: NH-54a. Completed.
Recommendation: Delete program.
NH-55
thru
NH-73
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-72 Neighborhood
Design
PW Short-term NH-72a. Medway
Improvements
PW: NH-72a. Modification to Francisco Blvd. East have been
installed from Medway to Bellam. Landscaping improvements
were not included in this Caltrans project. DPW seeking funding
to support the landscaping of this area.
Improvements are being pursued along Francisco Blvd. East from
Medway to Grand. Designs for improvements are being prepared
however construction funding is currently not available.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to pursue
improvements along Francisco Blvd. East to improve access
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A22 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-74 Community-
wide Asset
CD Short-term NH-74a. Design Plan
and Vision for the
Canal front
CD: NH-74a. Completed. Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan
completed and accepted in 2010. Vision document includes a list
of recommendations to be studied and pursued. To date, funds
and grants have been secured to widen the Grand Avenue bridge
in order to improve pedestrian and bicycle circulation.
Recommendation: Carry forward but amend program text to
reference completion of Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan and
pursue implementation. Add Public Works Department to
Responsibility. Add “State and Federal Funds and Grants” to
Resources.
NH-75 Canal
Waterfront
Uses
CD Short-term NH-75a. Zoning
Ordinance (allow
non-marine and
residential uses)
CD: NH-75a. Zoning Ordinance amended to allow for some limited
non marine commercial and office uses in the Marine District.
Recommendation: Delete program.
NH-76 Recreational
Boat Facilities
CD, ED, CM Short-term NH-76a. Maritime
Service Demand
(evaluate)
CD: NH-76a. No action taken on this program.
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
NH-77
thru
NH-85
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-86 Design
Considerations
for
Development in
the Vicinity of
the Civic Center
CD Ongoing NH-86a. Civic Center
Design
CD: NH-86. In 2011, the City completed the Civic Center Station
Area Plan, which should be referenced in this policy and the
corresponding program.
Recommendation: Carry forward, but amend text
NH-87 Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A23 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-88 Sonoma Marin
Area Rail
Transit
(SMART)
Station
CD Long-term NH-88a. Transit-
Oriented
Development
CD: NH-88. Since 2004, the voters approved the smart service,
which is under construction and scheduled for operation in 2015.
NH-89
thru
NH-93
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-94 Dominican
University
CD Short-term NH-94b. University
Housing (allow)
CD: NH-94b. The Master Plan for the University was adopted prior
to the adoption of the General Plan 2020. Since adoption of the
General Plan, the University has been working toward build out of
the approved Master Plan and this was completed in 2013, with
the completion of the athletic fields at Forest Meadows. At this
point, the University has not expressed a desire to pursue a new
Master Plan.
Recommendation: Change timeframe to long-term .
NH-95 Barbier
Park/Gold Hill
CD Short-term NH-95a. Barbier
Park/Gold Hill
(redesignate
publically-owned
properties to Open
Space)
CD: NH-95a. Completed. Zoning Map changes have been made to
designate the private lands secured for public open space to the
Parks/Open Space zoning district.
Recommendation: Delete program.
NH-96
-97
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A24 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH-98 Freeway Sound
Wall
PW Short-term NH-98a. Freeway
Improvements
PW: NH-98a. Landscaping has been installed along the sound wall
near Grand and Villa Avenues. Additional soundwall landscaping
has been installed along highway 101 and the Puerto Suello
pathway to attenuate sound and encourage landscaping on
Caltrans soundwalls.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to encourage
Caltrans to install landscaping on where feasible.
NH-99
thru
117
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-
118
Loch Lomond
Marina
CD Short-term NH-118a. Project
Design and Review
NH-118b. Common
Area Maintenance
(require in proposals)
NH-118c. Bird-
watching (encourage
developers to provide
facilities)
CD: NH-118a. Completed. Village at Loch Lomond mixed-use
development approved by the City in 2007. Project was designed
to address all of the recommendations of this program. Project
grading has commenced and construction of first phase of
residential development is expected to commence in 2014.
Recommendation: Carry forward (as project is not built), but
amend text to reference that development project review process
and approved design comply with this program.
CD: NH-118b. Completed. Mello-Roos (assessment) district was
formed in 2009 to cover long-term maintenance of publicly-
accessible park, shoreline and marina green approved w/ dev.
Recommendation: Carry forward (as project is not built), but
amend text to reference that this program has been implemented.
CD: NH-118c. Completed. Approved project includes permanent
open space areas encumbered by conservation easements.
Approved project also includes viewing areas and signage for bird-
watching.
Recommendation: Carry forward (as project is not built), but
amend text to reference that approved project implements this..
NH-
119
Marin Islands CD Short-term NH-119a. Rezone
Marin Islands (to
Open Space
CD: NH-119a. Completed.
Recommendation: Delete program.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A25 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | NEIGHBORHOODS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
NH
120-
125
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-
126
Traffic Control PW Short-term NH-126a. San Rafael
High School Access
(improve drop-off
areas)
PW: NH-126a. Following conversations with the School District no
modifications were requested and no action was taken by DPW.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Encourage communication
and cooperation in improving access to San Rafael High School.
NH-
127 -
129
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-
130
Commercial
Parking
CD Short-term NH-130a.
Commercial Public
Parking in Montecito
CD: NH-130a. Not completed.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
NH-
131 -
149
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-
150
Smith Ranch
Pond
CD Short-term NH-150a. Smith
Ranch Pond
Maintenance
CD: NH-150a. Partially implemented. Since 2010, there has been a
collaborative effort to study and implement pond restoration by
local environmental organizations (Marin Conservation League) in
coordination with the City. Efforts include reviewing restoration
options that may require amending the adopted Pond Restoration
and Maintenance Plan adopted in the 1990’s. Continued efforts
and actual implementation of restoration work will require funds.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
NH-
151 -
155
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
NH-
156
Eichler Homes CD Short-term NH-156a. Eichler
Homes (design
guidelines/zoning to
preserve)
CD: NH-156a. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to Long-
term.
NH-
157 -
167
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A26 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | COMMUNITY DESIGN
COMMUNITY DESIGN
Goal 7: A Beautiful City
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CD-1 City Image CD Short-term CD-1b. Finer Grain
Design Qualities
(develop
neighborhood or
corridor plans)
CD: CD-1a. Completed. Since the 2004 adoption of the General Plan
2020, the City has completed the Downtown Station Area Plan and
Civic Center Station Area Plan. Both plans include finer grain design
recommendations for these two areas, as well as a
recommendation to develop and adopt design guidelines for these
areas.
Recommendation: Completed. Delete program.
CD-2 Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CD-3 Neighborhoods CD Short-term CD-3a. Design
Review Process
(ways to limit
design review for
ground floor
additions and
renovations to
assure
compatibility with
surroundings)
CD-3b.
Development
Standards
(reexamine)
CD-3c. Revisions to
Design Guidelines
CD: CD-3a. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: CD-3b. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD: CD-3c. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A27 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | COMMUNITY DESIGN
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CD-4 Historic
Resources
CD Short-term CD-4a. Historic
Resources
Information (for
residents)
CD-4b. Adaptive
Reuse (incentivize
in design guidelines
or zoning reg.)
CD-4c. Sign
Ordinance (allow
signs identifying
historic structure)
CD-4d. Design
Guidelines
CD: CD-4a. On-going
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD: CD-4b. Partially implemented. Since the 2004 adoption of the
San Rafael General Plan 2020, some of the commercial and light
industrial/office zoning districts have been amended to expand the
types of allowable uses, some with reduced permit review.
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD: CD4-c. No action
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD: CD-4d. No action
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD-5 Views CD Short-term CD-5a. Views
(Canal front design
plan)
CD: CD-5a. Partially implemented. Canalfront Conceptual Design
Plan completed and accepted in 2010. Vision document includes a
list of recommendations to be studied and pursued.
Recommendation: Carry forward but amend program text to
reference completion of Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan and
pursue implementation.
CD-6 –
CD-9
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A28 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | COMMUNITY DESIGN
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CD-10 Nonresidential
Design
Guidelines
CD Short-term CD-10b.
Compatibility of
Patterns (adopt
design guidelines)
CD-10c. Successful
Design Portfolio
CD: CD-10b. No action
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD: CD-10c.
CD-11 Multifamily
Design
Guidelines
CD Short-term CD-11a.
Compatibility of
Building Patterns
(adopt design
guidelines)
CD: CD-11a. No action
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD-12 Industrial Areas CD Short-term CD-12a.
Landscaping (adopt
design guidelines)
CD: CD-12a. No action
Recommendation: Carry forward and change timeframe to long-
term.
CD-13
- 14
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CD-15 Participation in
Project Review
CD Short-term CD-15a.
Notification and
Information about
Development
Projects (continue
to enhance)
CD-15d. Thresholds
for Design Review
(reevaluate to
ensure sufficient
public involvement)
CD: CD-15a. On-going
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: CD-15d. With the reduction in staffing levels, some thresholds
for design review have been increased, eliminating design review
for some smaller projects. The most notable is the elimination of
design review requirement for upper story additions under 500 sqft
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A29 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | COMMUNITY DESIGN
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CD-16
– 17
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CD-18 Landscaping CD Short-term CD-18a. Zoning
Regulations for
Landscaping
(evaluate)
CD: CD-18a. Partially implemented. Since the 2004 adoption of the
San Rafael General Plan 2020, there have been some revisions to
the Zoning Ordinance to broaden and improve landscape
requirements.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD-19 Lighting CD Short-term CD-19b. Lighting
Plan (require for
new developments
and significant
parking lot
improvements or
proposing new
lighting)
CD: CD-19a. On-going. Preferred lighting levels and standards for
lighting are being established and added to the Zoning Ordinance
through the 2013/14 Zoning Ordinance amendment package. These
standards will provide more clear design directives for applicants in
designing project and for staff in evaluating projects.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD-20 Commercial
Signage
CD Short-term CD-20a. Sign
Ordinance (update)
CD: CD-20a. No action
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD-21 Parking Lot
Landscaping
CD Short-term CD-21a. Parking
Lot Landscaping
Requirements
(update screening
requirements)
CD: CD-21a. Near fully implemented. Since the 2004 adoption of
the San Rafael General Plan 2020, there have been some revisions
to the Zoning Ordinance to broaden and improve landscape
requirements. Additional requirements have been included in the
latest proposed revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, which are
scheduled for public hearings this spring.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
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APPENDIX A | ECONOMIC VITALITY
ECONOMIC VITALITY
Goal 8: A Sound Economy
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
EV-1
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
EV-2 Seek, Retain, and
Promote
Businesses that
Enhance San
Rafael
CD, A Short-term EV-2e. Street
Vendors
(consider
ordinance)
CD: EV-2e. No action. However, an ordinance has been adopted
which regulates mobile vendors.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
A: EV-2e. In 2003, the City Council adopted San Rafael Municipal
Code Chapter 10.48 regulating commercial peddlers, solicitor
and itinerant merchants by requiring a permit to be issued and
enforced by the Police Department. Ongoing.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
EV-3 -
6
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
EV-7 Environmentally-
Friendly business
Practices
CD Short-term EV-7a. Green
Business
Practices
(coordinate with
other parties and
promote)
CD: EV-7a. On-going. The City has developed four sustainability
web pages for the City of San Rafael website intended to
promote environmentally-friendly business practices. One web
page is specific to green business. Two web pages address the
greening-for-profit program and case studies. The greening-for-
profit program has brought 27 businesses through a
sustainability circles program. The City obtained a green
business certification for the City Hall facility. Lastly, City staff
sits on the Chamber of Commerce Green Business Committee
and helps promote green business to the chamber.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A31 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | ECONOMIC VITALITY
Goal 9: A Range of Goods and Services
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
EV-8 Diversity of Our
Economic Base
CD, CM Short-term EV-8a. Industrial
Zoning (prevent
loss of industrial
as feasible)
EV-8b. Day
Laborers
(identify location
for center for
employment)
CD: EV-8a. No action. Industrial zoning has been retained to
prevent the loss of industrial businesses.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CM: EV-8b.
Recommendation: Delete program.
EV-9 -
10
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
EV-11 Promotion of
Workplace
Alternatives
CD Short-term EV-11a. Home
Occupations
(reexamine
regulations)
CD: EV-11a. Partially implemented. Zoning Ordinance
amendments have been drafted for adoption to address 2012
changes in State law expanding home occupation provisions for
the cottage food industry.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
Goal 10: Distinctive Business Areas
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
EV-12
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
EV-13 Business Areas CD, ED Short-term EV-13a. Zoning
Regulations
(review)
CD: EV-13a. On-going. In 2011, Zoning Ordinance amendments
were adopted broadening land use allowances for some of the
commercial and industrial zoning districts. Additional Zoning
Ordinance amendments have been drafted to further streamline
land use review and permits for selected businesses.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A32 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | ECONOMIC VITALITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
EV-14 Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
EV-15 Mutual Support
Between Business
Area and Adjacent
Neighborhoods
CD Short-term EV-15b.
Neighborhood
Upgrades
(encourage
through
development
review)
CD: EV-15b. On-going. Neighborhood-friendly improvements
such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities have been required and
incorporated into development projects on a case-by-case basis.
Some project examples include the Target Store and Village at
Loch Lomond Marina, which incorporated pedestrian and
bicycle paths and connections providing links between
business/commercial and residential neighborhoods.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
Goal 11: Creative Infill
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
EV-16 Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
EV-17 Development
Review
CD Short-term EV-17a. Pre-
submittal
Process (refine to
foster quality
submittals and
productive
involvement)
CD: EV-17a. On-going. The Planning Division promotes the
“Pre-Application” and “Conceptual Review” processes, which
were developed after the 2004 adoption of the General Plan
2020. These processes have been updated and streamlined
since they were developed. Public notice requirements are
periodically updated for streamlining and consistency,
Recommendation: Carry forward.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A33 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | CIRCULATION
CIRCULATION
Goal 12: A Leadership Role in Transportation
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-1
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
C-2 Regional
Transportation
funding
CM, PW Short-term C-2a. Local
Transportation
Tax (work for
passage of
Marin County
transp. Tax)
CM: C-2a. Completed. Measure A (local half-cent transportation
sales tax) passed in November 2004.
PW: C-2a. Continue to assist and explore ways to develop
additional funding for transportation within the County. The
County did received a BTA grant for bicycle improvements within
the county which has been utilized by local jurisdictions such as
the City of San Rafael
Recommendation: (Carry Forward) Continue to support efforts
which allocate funding sources which support regional
transportation.
C-3
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 13: Mobility for All Users
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-4 - 5
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A34 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | CIRCULATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
*NEW
C-5.1
Vehicle Miles
Traveled (VMT)
Methodology
for
Environmental
Review of
Traffic Impact
PW, CD Short-term C-5.1a Develop
a VMT Model
CD: NEW PROGRAM PROPOSED IN RESPONSE TO SB 743
Tentatively proposed policy and program language is as follows:
C -5.1. Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Methodology for
Environmental Review of Traffic Impact
Pursuant to Public Resources Code § 21099 and 21083 (provided
under Senate Bill 743, effective January 2016), an alternative
method of measuring transportation impacts of projects will
replace the Level of Service (LOS) methodology. For
environmental review, the use of vehicle miles traveled (VMT)
metric will be applied in assessing development projects.
C-5.1a. Develop a VMT Model. Use VMT in the assessment of
traffic impacts for the purposes of environmental review,
provided that each project meets the criteria for use of VMT
measurements identified under the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) and that the City Traffic Engineer
determines the appropriateness of using VMT for a project.
a. Develop and adopt a VMT model. Incorporate the model
into the General Plan Environmental Impact Report
b. Implement VMT for CEQA review of projects
Responsibility: Community Development
Timeframe: Ongoing
Funding: Fees
C-6 Proposed
Improvements
PW, CD Ongoing C6a. Update
Proposed
Circulation
Improvements
CD: C-6a. Exhibit 21 and maps will need to be updated.
C-7 Circulation
Improvements
Funding.
PW, CD Ongoing CD: Remove reference to Redevelopment funding and reference
other funding sources.
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A35 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | CIRCULATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-8 - 10
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
C-11 Alternative
Transportation
Mode Users
PW, CD Short-term C-11e.
Reduction of
Single
Occupancy
Vehicles
(encourage in
development)
CD: C-11e. On-going. Single-occupancy vehicle reduction has
been encouraged by the City and incorporated into development
projects on a case-by-case basis. Some project examples include
the new Target Store, Northgate Mall renovation and the San
Rafael Corporate Center, which have incorporated preferential
parking, bicycle facilities and bus shelters.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: C-11e. Utilization of BTA funds for bicycle projects. Bike and
pedestrian projects have been pursued over the last 10 years and
have made significant improvements to the City’s infrastructure.
Installation of Bike Lockers, bike racks and pedestrian facilities
throughout the City. The City has utilized BTA funds for bicycle
projects within the City and continues to seek any funds
available.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
C-12 - 19
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A36 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | CIRCULATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-20 Intermodal
Transit Hub
PW, CD Short-term C-20a. Transit
Hubs (work
with other
agencies)
CD: C-20a. On-going. In 2012, the City completed the Downtown
Station Area Plan and Civic Center Station Area Plan. Both plans
address and present recommendations for transportation and
access improvements to transit within a ½-mile radius of the two
SMART stations.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: C-20a. City staff continues to work with GGT, SMART,
CalTrans and other agencies to improve the current transit
center. City DPW received a One Bay Area Grant to improve the
traffic signal safety in anticipation of the new SMART rail train
arriving. Other efforts are underway to investigate and improve
circulation in and around the intermodal transit hubs. City staff is
taking an active role in working with SMART on the design of the
new rail stations and the transit center interaction with the
SMART rail.
City staff facilitated public meetings related to the Station Area
Plan improvements to this specific area of the City.
Recommendation: (Carry Forward) Continue to assist and
interact with other transit agencies to provide the safest and
usable transit centers for the residents of San Rafael.
Goal 14: A Safe and Efficient Street System
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-21 - 22
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 15: Connections Between Neighborhoods
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-23 - 25
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
City of San Rafael General Plan | 10-Year Report
A37 | P a g e
APPENDIX A | CIRCULATION
Goal 16: Bikeways
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-26 Bicycle Plan
Implementation
CD Short-term C-26c. Bicycle
Parking
(ordinance
requirement)
CD: C-26c. On-going. Since the 2004 adoption of the General Plan
2020, the City has adopted an update of the Bicycle and
Pedestrian Master Plan. The recommendations of this master plan
have been implemented numerous times through various
measures such as the development process and grants secured by
the City (NTTP).
Recommendation: Carry forward.
Goal 17: Pedestrian Paths
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-27 Pedestrian Plan
Implementation
PW Short-term C-27b.
Prioritizing
Pedestrian
Improvements
PW: C-27b. Public Works meets with the Bicycle Pedestrian
Advisory Committee every 6 months to monitor progress, and
implement projects related to this goal. Significant improvement
and infrastructure have been installed which improve pedestrian
and bicycle travel within this City. City Staff continues to pursue
additional funding whenever possible to improve multi modal
access throughout the City.
Recommendation: (Carry Forward) Continue to prioritize
improvement needs to provide more multi modes of travel
throughout the City.
C-28
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 18: Adequate Parking
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-29 - 32
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | CIRCULATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
C-33 Park and Ride
Lots
PW, CM Short-term C-33b.
Commuter
Parking
(evaluate
additional)
PW: C-33b. Minimal action taken on this item based on decreased
staff availability and funding to pursue this item.
The Station Area Plans, developed for the SMART Rail Stations,
include considerations for commuter services.
Recommendation: (Carry Forward) Continue to support park and
ride facilities.
CM: C-33b.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
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APPENDIX A | INFRASTRUCTURE
INFRASTRUCTURE
Goal 19: Sound Infrastructure
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
I-1 - 5
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
I-6 Street
Maintenance
PW, A Short-term I-6c. Sidewalk
Repair (develop a
program)
PW: I-6c. Action has not been pursued to develop a
sidewalk repair program based on the financial impact it
may have on individual residents
The City continues to repair and improve curb ramps
within the City based on State law requirements.
Funding for this effort is supported by grants and local
funds. Additional efforts are made to replace older
ramps prior to resurfacing roadways.
Recommendation: (Carry Forward) Continue to list this
item as a goal of the city’s to have compliant sidewalks
and pedestrian facilities.
A: I-6c. Public Works notifies property owners of the
requirement to repair and maintain sidewalks adjacent to
their property pursuant to the Streets & Highways Code.
Ongoing.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
I-7
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | INFRASTRUCTURE
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
I-8 Street Trees PW Short-term I-8b. Street Trees
for New
Development
I-8c. Street Tree
Maintenance (seek
diverse funding)
I-8d. Landscape
Maintenance Next
to Sidewalks (seek
diverse funding)
PW: I-8b. The City continues to maintain street trees and
continues to seek funding to replace trees that have
aggressive roots system that affect vehicular and
pedestrian travel.
PW: I-8c. No revisions to the City Ordinances have been
pursued to require maintenance of private landscaping
which encroaches into the public right of way. Currently
this is being addressed in a case-by-case manner with
individual property owners.
PW: I-8d. No revisions to the City Ordinances have been
pursued to require maintenance of private landscaping
which encroaches into the public right of way.
Recommendation: (Carry Forward).
I-9 - 11
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
I-12 Cost Effective
Services
CM Short-term I-12a. Consolidation
of Services (support
consolidation in San
Rafael Planning
Area)
CM: I-12a. Delete program.
Confirm with Community Development
Recommendation: Delete Program.
I-13 -14
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
I-15 Telecommunication
Improvements
CM, PW, CD Short-term I-15b.
Telecommunication
Ordinance
CD: I-15b. Completed. A wireless telecommunications
ordinance was adopted in 2004. The ordinance includes
regulations for appropriate location and design of
facilities, as well as the permit process and required
studies to address radio frequency radiation (RFR) levels.
This ordinance is currently being updated to streamline
the permit process and address the Federal “shot clock”
laws.
Recommendation: Remove program.
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APPENDIX A | GOVERNANCE
GOVERNANCE
Goal 20: Diversity
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
G-1 - 4
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 21: Community Participation
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
G-5 - 8
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
G-9 Advisory
Committees
AD, CM Short-term G-9b. Recognition
and Feedback (exit
interviews, and
retiring members
training new
members)
CM: Remove “Conduct exit interviews with board and
commission members when they complete their service to
assess commission performance.”
Recommendation: Carry forward.
G-10-
11
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
G-12 Local Elections CL, CM Short-term G-12b. Voter
Participation
(publicize election
results and
turnout)
CM: Completed. Website link to the County Office of
Elections is provided on City Clerk’s webpage.
Recommendation: Amend text and carry forward.
Goal 22: Educational Excellence
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
G-13 -
17
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | GOVERNANCE
Goal 23: Support for Care Providers
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
G-18 Support for Special
Needs Groups
CD Short-term G-18c. Zoning
Allowance (group
homes, transitional
housing, treatment
facilities)
CD: G-18c. Partially implemented. Per the requirements of
SB2, Zoning Ordinance amendments have been drafted to
incorporate new definitions for “transitional housing” and
“supportive housing”.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
G-19
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 24: Funding for City Services
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Policy
G-20 -
23
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
G-24 Local Government
Partnerships
CM Short-term,
Ongoing
G-24b. New
Revenue Sources
for City Services
and Infrastructure
CM: G-24b. Carry forward. Measure S passed in 2005 which
established a half-cent local sales tax. Measure E passed in
November 2013 which renewed and enhanced the local
sales tax to ¾ percent. Measure C, a Special Library Parcel
Tax passed in 2010. Measure I, a special paramedic services
tax passed in November 2010.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY
Goal 1 It is the goal of San Rafael to have a sustainable community, one that balances the needs of the environment, the economy and a
diverse society. A sustainable community is one that improves its economy, built environment and lifestyles within the limits and
opportunities provided by the natural environment. Living within the carrying capacity of natural systems will improve the resilience of
our community to withstand market shifts and the effects of climate change.
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-1 Land Use CD, PW Short-term SU-1a.
Transportation
Alternatives
(consider best use
of future Civic
Center SMART
station)
CD: SU-1a. Completed. In 2012, the City completed the Civic
Center Station Area Plan, which includes land use and
transportation recommendations around the Civic Center SMART
station. Station Area Plan recommendations require further
study.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: SU-1a. City DPW is working closely with SMART and the
County of Marin to make improvements to Civic Center Drive and
the new SMART station to provide safe and compliant access
along this roadway to and from the new Station.
Additional efforts are underway to coordinate the impacts of the
new SMART rail system to downtown. Coordination between
GGT, SMART, Caltrans and other agencies is occurring in
anticipation of the new rail system in 2016.
Community Development working closely with other departments
and acquired funding to developed station area plans which
analyzed the impacts of the rails systems on the community and
provided a basis for future detailed analysis for improvements to
these areas.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to encourage
transportation alternatives for the City in and around transit
centers.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-2 Promote
Alternative
Transportation
PW Short-term SU-2d. SMART
(encourage
funding,
development, and
use)
PW: SU-2d. City DPW continues to work with SMART to install a
new rail system and Multi Use Path near the rail line to provide
and encourage a multi-modal approach to access along the
SMART rail line.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to promote and
support alternative forms of transportation within the City.
SU-3 Alternative Fuel
and Fuel Efficient
Vehicles
PW, PS, CD Short-term SU-3a. Public
Charging Stations
SU-3b. Charging
Stations for
Private Facilities
(revise building
codes)
SU-3c. Regional
Charging Stations
(support)
CD: SU-3a. On-going. Public charging stations have been installed
at several public parking facilities in the City.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: SU-3a. The City has installed several charging stations at the
3rd and Cijos Parking lot and other facilities within the city.
CD: SU-3b. On-going. The Zoning Ordinance has been amended to
incorporate electric vehicle charging station requirements when
developing a new or renovating an existing parking lot/facility.
Recommendation: Delete program.
PW: SU-3b. The city encourages the installation of charging
stations on private facilities as long as such stations to not impact
the facility or the public adversely.
CD: SU-3c. On-going.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: SU-3c. The City continues to look for opportunities to install
charging stations within public facilities that are centrally located
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to encourage
alternative fuels and fuel efficient vehicles
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-4 Renewable Energy CM, CD Short-term,
Ongoing
SU-4a. Marin
Energy Authority
(support)
SU-4b. PACE
Financing
SU-4c. Energy
Efficiency
Outreach
SU-4d. Wind and
Solar (adopt
zoning allowance
and fee
reductions)
CD: SU-4a. Ongoing. Since the 2009 adoption of the Climate
Change Action Plan, the City has been involved in numerous
efforts to support the Marin Energy Authority. In 2010, the City
joined the Marin Energy Authority as a “light green” customer.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-4b. Completed.
Recommendation: Delete program.
CD: SU-4c. Ongoing. A City webpage has been created and
launched to inform the public of available energy-saving
programs.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-4d. Completed
Recommendation: Delete program.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-5 Reduce Use of
Non-Renewable
Resources
CD, Marin
Municipal
Water
District
Short-term SU-5a. Green
Building
Regulations
SU-5b. Energy
Efficiency
Programs
(programs to
achieve 20%
reduction by
2020)
SU-5c. Water
Efficiency
Programs
(programs to
achieve 30%
reduction by
2020)
SU-5d. Reflective
Surfaces
(encourage high
albedo materials)
CD: SU-5a. Green building regulations (LEED and “Build-it-Green”)
were adopted by the City in 2010. In 2013, the green building
regulations were amended to replace the LEED/Build-it-Green
regulations with the universal/statewide “Cal-Green” regulations.
Recommendation: Delete program.
CD: SU-5b. On-going. Energy efficient programs have been
promoted by the City, including the actions cited above under
Programs SU-4a-4d and SU-5a.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-5c. Partially implemented and on-going. Water efficiency
programs have been developed and adopted by the Marin
Municipal Water District (MMWD), the local water provider.
MMWD Ordinance 721 (Water Conservation) established limits on
the type and amount of landscape.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-5d. Partially implemented and on-going. Amendments to
the Zoning Ordinance have been drafted to update parking lot
standards, which include provisions for the use of high albedo
pavement surfaces. Zoning Ordinance amendments scheduled for
public hearings and adoption in the spring.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-6 New and Existing
Trees
PW, CD, FN Short-term SU-6c. Parking Lot
Landscaping
(update zoning)
SU-6d. Carbon
Offset Program
(consider)
(PW,FN)
CD: SU-6c. Completed.
Recommendation: Delete program
PW: SU-6c. Individual public parking lots are re-examined to
determine if they can accommodate additional landscaping when
they are reconstructed.
CD: SU-6d. Explored but not pursued at this time. After extensive
research and tracking, it was determined that implementing a
local program is not cost-effective or feasible at this time.
Continued monitoring is recommended.
Recommendation: Carry forward
PW: SU-6d. No action has been taken to develop a local Carbon
Offset Program.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to utilize natural
elements such as trees to reduce the City’s carbon footprint and
support the environment.
SU-7-
8
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-9 Zero Waste CM, CD,
Marin
Sanitary
Short-term SU-9a. Zero
Waste (adopt
strategic plan)
SU-9b. Home
Composting,
(Long-Term)
SU-9c.
Community
Composting
(create program)
SU-9d. Organic
Waste-to-Energy
(encourage a
program)
SU-9e. Incentives
for Waste
Reduction and
Recycling (in rate
structure)
SU-9f.
Construction
Debris (adopt
ordinance)
CD: SU-9a. Completed. In 2011, the City adopted a Zero Waste
Goal and Strategic Plan.
Recommendation: Revise program text to acknowledge adopted
goal/strategic plan, continue to monitor and implement until the
goal is met.
CD: SU-9b. On-going. Marin Sanitary Service has hired an
outreach coordinator and has completed residential audits. As a
result, outreach materials have been developed encouraging
home composting.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-9c. On-going. Same response to SU-9b, above.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-9d. Partially implemented. Marin Sanitary Service has
launched the “Food-2-Energy” program. The program is being
implemented and needs to be monitored to determine
effectiveness.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-9e. On-going. Focus groups were facilitated to understand
customer perceptions in order to identify the appropriate type of
rate structure that would incentivize waste reduction.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-9f. Completed. Construction and Demolition Debris
Ordinance adopted by City Council in 2011.
Recommendation: Delete program.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-9h. Non-
Recyclable Single
Use Items
(investigate ban)
SU-9i.
Commercial and
Multi-Family
Recycling (adopt
an ordinance)
CD: SU-9h. Completed. Single-Use Carryout Bag Reduction
Ordinance adopted by City Council in February 2014.
Recommendation: Delete program.
CD: SU-9i.
CD/CM: Complete – was adopted in 2011
Recommendation: Delete program.
SU-10 Community
Education and
Engagement
CD, CM Short-term SU-10a.
Conservation
Programs
SU-10b. Resilient
Neighborhoods
and Businesses
(encourage
carbon reduction
programs)
SU-10c. Promote
Sustainability
Efforts (use
website and
publications)
SU-10d. Green
Festival
CD: SU-10a. On-going.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-10b. On-going. Resilient Neighborhoods and Businesses
program has been successfully implemented. Program effort
continuing.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-10c. On-going. Sustainability webpage developed and
launched for the City’s website.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-10d. On-going. Several “green festivals” (Eco-Festival and
Earth Day Marin) were held in the past three years. The City of
San Rafael sponsored a booth and assisted in promoting events.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-11 Environmentally
Beneficial Economy
ED, County Short-term SU-11b. Marin
County Green
Business Program
(support and
encourage)
CM: SU-12a. Ongoing.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Goes to Economic Development
SU-12 Monitor
Sustainability
Objectives and
Indicators
CD, CM Short-term /
Ongoing
SU-12a. Monitor
Sustainability
Indicators and
Greenhouse Gas
Inventory.
SU-12b. Future
Development and
Capital
Improvements.
SU-12c. Annual
Reports.
SU-12d.
Sustainability
Coordinator (hire)
SU-12e.
Sustainability
Commission
(appoint)
CD: SU-12a. Ongoing. The greenhouse gas inventory was last
updated in 2013. The next inventory update will be in five years.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-12b. Ongoing. New development projects are reviewed
for consistency with the Sustainability Element policies and
programs. When necessary, conditions are required on
development projects to comply with the policies. Capital
Improvement projects are assessed in the same way.
Recommendation: Carry forward (necessary to keep our qualified
GHG reduction strategy (streamlining).
CD: SU-12c. Ongoing. Annual reports are completed and
presented to the City Council.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: SU-12d. Completed. Sustainability Coordinator position was
created in 2011, and made full time in 2013.
Recommendation: Delete program.
CD: SU-12e. No action. The CCAP Quarterly Forum (which
includes stakeholders) provides oversight in the progress of
implementing the sustainability programs. Further, the Mayor
has formed a Sustainability Sub-Committee to provide direction
and oversight on implementing sustainability programs.
Recommendation: Amend program text to reference the CCAP
Quarterly Forum.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
Goal
2
It is the goal of San Rafael to have municipal operations that are highly resource efficient and anticipate the effects of climate change.
Municipal operations constitute only one percent of the community’s greenhouse gas emissions, but can be a model of sustainable
practices. The City should anticipate and mitigate the effects of sea level rise and natural disasters which will be exacerba ted by climate
change.
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-13 Municipal
Programs
PW, P, F, FN,
CM, Marin
Energy
Managemen
t Team
Short-term SU-13c. Limit
Idling of City
Vehicles (adopt
policy)
SU-13d. Green
Purchasing
SU-13e. Energy
Audits Municipal
Buildings,
SU-13f. City
Electricity (switch
accounts to “Light
Green” in 2010
and “Deep Green”
in 2020)
PW: SU-13c. Public Works encourages staff to turn off equipment
when possible or being idled to reduce fuel consumption. No
policy statement has been developed since this is a fairly small
staff and staff is aware of the city’s intent to reduce fuel
consumption.
F: SU-13c. Amin fleet vehicles follow City standard. Emergency
vehicles minimize idle time whenever possible.
New Addition: Solar panels on fire operations emergency vehicles
for charging batteries and supplementing power.
CM: SU-13d. The City Employee Green Team developed an
environmentally preferable purchasing policy in 2013, which was
signed by the city manager and distributed to departments in
November 2013.
CM: SU-13e. Audits completed for City Hall in 2008 and Public
Works Building, Boro Community Center, and San Rafael
Community Center in 2008.
Recommendation: Delete program
CM: SU-13f. We switched to light green in 2010. We are
developing a plan to switch to deep green now.
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APPENDIX A | SUSTAINABILITY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
SU-13g.
Streetlights and
Traffic Signals
(pursue funding
for retrofits)
SU-13h.
Employee
Awareness (to
climate
protection.
Internal
committee to
implement plans)
PW: SU-13g. The City has pursued and implemented the
installation of LED lights on main arterial streets. Further
implementation is being investigated on neighborhood streets
however impacts to communities will need to be discussed prior
to implementation.
CM: SU-13h. The City Employee Green Team and the City
Employee Commute Committee actively educate and inform
employees of climate issues and activities taking place in the city
to participate in. These include an alternative commute incentive
program, recycling education and office enhancements, energy
and water conservation, and waste reduction among other things.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward)
SU-14 Adapting to
Climate Change
PW Short-term SU-14d. Sea Level
Monitoring and
Planning (with
BCDC)
PW: SU-14d. Community Development has developed a white
paper and presented it to the City Council which explained some
of the unknowns associated with Sea Level Rise. The exact
amount of sea level rise is not known such that action to
implement modification cannot be made at this time.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to communicate
with regulatory agencies related to this subject to establish a
baseline for sea level rise.
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APPENDIX A | CULTURE AND ARTS
CULTURE AND ARTS
Goal 25: Quality Cultural and Library Services
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CA-1 Cultural Center of
Marin
CS Short-term CA-1a.
Community
Vision of Culture
and Arts in San
Rafael
CA-1b. Promotion
of Cultural
Offerings (identify
public places to
promote)
CS: CA-1a.
Recommendation: Complete. City adopted an Arts Plan.
Falkirk Cultural Center currently hosts art exhibits and events.
CS: CA-1b.
Recommendation: Complete. Promotion of cultural offerings
is currently done on internet and with Community Services
brochure.
CA-2 Arts Plan CS Short-term CA-2a. Funding
(identify)
CS: CA-2a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. A work program for
completing the plan has been prepared. Need a resolution of
dedicated funding source such as hotel tax or franchise tax.
CA-3 -5
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CA-6 Community Art CS, CD Short-term CA-6c.
Community Art
Contributions
(adopt
regulations)
CS: CA-6c.
Recommendation: Complete. Policy/Procedure created.
Partner with Downtown art works.
CA-7
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CA-8 Facility Development CM, CD Short-term CA-8a. Marin
Center (support
renovation and
enhancement)
CM: CA-8a. Completed. Marin Center Renaissance Conceptual
Plan completed in 2005.
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APPENDIX A | CULTURE AND ARTS
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CA-9 Falkirk Cultural
Center
CS Short-term CA-9a. Falkirk
Master Plan
(update Falkirk
Grounds
Conceptual
Master Plan
(1996) and
Strategic
Plan/Phase I
(1996))
CS: CA-9a.
Recommendation: Complete. Ten year agreement with Marin
Master Gardeners. Full restoration of green house and
completed additional phases of Master plan. Strategic Plan
not moved forward due to staff cut backs. Moving forward
with partnerships.
CA-10
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CA-11 San Rafael Public
Library
L, CM, PW Short-term CA-11a. Facility
Needs (study)
PW: CA-11a. No action has been taken to perform a needs
assessment for the San Rafael Public Library.
Recommendations: (Cary Forward) Continue to list this as a
goal.
CM: Carry forward.
CA-12
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | CULTURE AND ARTS
Goal 26: Protected Cultural Heritage
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CA-13 Historic Building
Areas
CD Short-term CA-13a. Inventory
Update (update
City’s Historical/
Architecture
Survey)
CA-13c. Historic
Preservation
Advisory
Committee
(establish
technical advisory
board or contract
architectural
historian)
CD: CA-13a. No action. No budget available to fund the
professional services of a qualified architectural historian.
Recommendation: Carry forward and change Timeframe to
Long-term
CD: CA-13c. No action. Projects involving or potentially
impacting historic resources are reviewed on a case-by-case
basis and generally require as assessment from a qualified
architectural historian.
Recommendation: Carry forward
CA-14 Reuse of Historic
Buildings
CD Short-term CA-14a. Historical
Building Code,
CA-14b. Zoning
(investigate
zoning exceptions
to regulations)
CA-14c.
Incentives.
(Long-Term)
CD: CA-14a. On-going.
Recommendation: Carry forward
CD: CA-14b. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward
CD: CA-14c. On-going. Projects involving potential impacts to
historic resources are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. In
most cases, preservation is encouraged. Transfer of
development rights to preserve and protect historic resources
has not been proposed or approved in this period.
Recommendation: Carry forward
CA-15
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | PARKS AND RECREATION
PARKS AND RECREATION
Goal 27: Parks and Programs for All
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
PR-1-
2
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
PR-3 Neighborhood
Recreational Needs
CS Short-term PR-3a.
Neighborhood
Recreational Needs
(develop individual
park plans)
CS: PR-3a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Requires funding source.
Approximately $15,000 to $25,000 needed for each park. 18
month process per park.
PR-4 City Recreational
Needs
CS Short-term PR-4a. All-Weather
Fields (consider)
CS: PR-4a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Seeking grant funding for
Pickleweed Park Soccer Field conversion to synthetic fields.
PR-5 Review of Needs CS Short-term PR-5a. Needs
Survey
CS: PR-5a.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PR-6 Community Center
Improvements
CS Short-term PR-6a. Community
Center
Improvements
(prepare plans and
seek funding for
Albert J. Boro and
San Rafael centers)
CS: PR-6a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Requires funding source.
PR-7 Community Park
Improvements
CS, CM Short-term PR-7a. Community
Park Improvements
(prepare plans and
seek funding for
Gerstle Park,
Pickleweed Park,
and Shoreline Park)
PR-7b. Marin
History Museum
(renovate/expand)
CS: PR-7a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Requires funding source.
CM: PR-7b. Delete program. Expansion project dropped by
Marin History Museum.
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APPENDIX A | PARKS AND RECREATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
PR-8 Neighborhood Park
Improvements
CS Short-term PR-8a.
Neighborhood Park
Improvements
(prepare plans and
seek funding for
Bret Harte, Freitas,
Ranchitos, Riviera,
Santa margarita,
Schoen and Sun
Valley)
CS: PR-8a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Requires funding source.
PR-9-
10
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
PR-
11
Public Pools CS Short-term PR-11a. High School
and University
Pools (explore)
CS: PR-11a.
Recommendation: Complete: community access available to
pools in San Rafael for San Rafael residents and user groups.
PR-
12
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
PR-
13
Commercial
Recreation
CS Short-term PR-13a.
Commercial
Recreation
(consider zoning
amendment for FAR
exemption for on-
site rec facilities
open to the public)
CS: PR-13a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. There is no ordinance that
promotes or advocates for commercial recreation.
Consider a mid-term timeframe.
PR-
14-15
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | PARKS AND RECREATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
PR-
16
Community Gardens CS Short-term PR-16a. Community
Gardens
(encourage)
CS: PR-16a.
Recommendation: Complete. In addition to the Terra Linda
Community Garden, the Canal Community Garden opened in
2013 with Canal Alliance serving as the managing partner.
Consider ongoing timeframe.
PR-
17-22
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
PR-
23
Funding CS Short-term PR-23a. Funding
(consider private
donations and
dedications, grants,
assessment
districts, joint
ventures, user fees,
Capital
Improvement
Program, Friends of
San Rafael,
Parkland
Dedication Ord.)
CS: PR-23a.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PR-
24
Contributions by
Rental Residential
Development
CS, A Short-term PR-24a. Rental
Residential
Contributions
(evaluate feasibility
of an ordinance
requiring
apartment
developer
contributions to
park improvement)
CS: PR-24a.
Recommendation: Carry forward. Re-evaluate fees for land
value/Quimby Fees. Fees for Park land dedication have not
been evaluated in over 20 years. Cost: $50,000-$70,000.
A: PR-24a. Ongoing.
Recommendation: Carry forward
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APPENDIX A | SAFETY
SAFETY
Goal 28: A Safe Community
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
S-1-8
Long-term/
Ongoing
CD + PW – Coordinate on Geotechnical Review
S-9 Post-Earthquake
Inspections
CD Short-term S-9a. Inspection List CD: S-9a. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward
S-10
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
S-11 Restriction of Businesses CD Short-term S-11a. Survey of
Facilities (determine
hazardous materials
and risk within ¼
mile of schools)
CD: S-11a. No action.
Recommendation: Carry forward
S-12 Use of Environmental
Databases in
Development Review
F Long-term S-12, 12a and 12b. F: S-12. Needs to be updated. FD no longer has the
capabilities listed.
S-13 Potential Hazardous
Soils Conditions
F Short-term S-13b. Hazardous
Soils Cleanup
(remediation
according to
regional and local
standards)
F: S-13. Needs to be updated. FD no longer has the
capabilities listed.
S-14 Hazardous Materials
Storage, Use and
Disposal
F Long-term S-14 and 14a. F: S-14. Needs to be updated. FD no longer has the
capabilities listed and the CUPA program has relocated to
Marin County DPW.
S-15-
24
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
S-25 Disaster Preparedness F Long-term S-25 F: S-25. Needs to be updated. DART has been replaced with
CERT.
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APPENDIX A | SAFETY
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
S-26 Public Safety Training F Long-term S-26a F: S-26. Needs to be updated. DART has been replaced with
CERT.
S-27-
29
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
S-30 Fire Protection
Ordinance
F Long-term S-30b. F: S-30. Needs to be updated. Ordinance #1856 adopts WUI
standards in SRMC Chapter 4.12.
S-31-
32
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
S-33 Training of Citizen Police
Academy and
DART Graduates
F Long-term S-33e. F: S-33. Needs to be updated. DART has been replaced with
CERT.
S-34-
37
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
S-38 Building Code and Fire
Code Update
F, CD Short-term
(3 year
cycle)
S-38a. State
Required Code
Updates
CD: S-38a. On-going. Building and Fire codes last updated in
December 2013 to comply with the updates of the State
codes.
Recommendation: Carry forward
F: S-38a. The 2013 California Fire Code and the 2012
International Fire Code where adopted with local
amendments, effective January 2, 2014.
S-39
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
S-40 Neighborhood
Educational Program
F Long-term S-40 F: S-40. Needs to be updated. DART has been replaced with
CERT.
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APPENDIX A | NOISE
NOISE
Goal 29: Acceptable Noise Levels
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
N-1-5
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
N-6 Traffic Noise CD, PW, CC Short-term N-6b. Mixed-Use
(develop land use
districts allowing
homes close to
offices and services)
N-6c. Coordination
with Local and State
Agencies (to achieve
noise reduction
along Pt. San Pedro
Rd, Hwy 101 and
580, and Sonoma
Marin Area Rail
Transit corridor)
CD: N-6b. Complete. Current office and commercial zoning
districts allow residential and mixed-uses that are also close
to public transit. Districts reinforced by the Downtown and
Civic Center Station Area Plans, which were completed in
2012.
Recommendation: Delete program.
CD: N-6c. Partially implemented and on-going. Some
measures that have been implemented since the 2004
adoption of the General Plan 2020 include, among others:
a) establishing “Quiet Zones” along the SMART corridor and
at-grade crossings and in residential areas bordering the
initial operating SMART rail line; and c) use of rubberized
asphalt material for repaving Point San Pedro Road, which
has noise-reducing qualities.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: N-6c. DPW continues to coordinate with multiple
agencies to coordinate local and State concerns. City is
working with the County of Marin to install sound
attenuating material along the full length of Point San Pedro
Road from Union to Biscaynne. Other areas will be
considered for this type of material after the work on Point
San Pedro Road has been evaluated.
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APPENDIX A | NOISE
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
N-6e. Street
Improvements.
Pursue feasible cost-
effective new street
paving technologies
to minimize traffic
noise. (Long-Term)
N-6f. Widening of
US 101 and 580
(encourage Caltrans
noise mitigation)
(PW,CC)
PW: N-6e. Public Works is exploring the utilization of new
materials to be used in resurfacing roadway. Point san
Pedro Road is to be resurfaced with a sound attenuating
open graded material. Other materials such as micro seals
or rubberized asphalt are considered when resurfacing
roadways.
CD: N-6f. Partially implemented and on-going. Since the
2004 adoption of the General Plan 2020, Caltrans
completed the US101 “Gap Closure” project through
Central San Rafael, which included relocating and re-
building the noise walls flanking the freeway. The new
noise wall construction included the installation of more up-
to-date noise buffering measures, including a surface
application that absorbs rather than deflects noise.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
PW: N-6f. CalTrans has installed
No action has been taken on this item. CalTrans has not
presented any modification to the highway system for the
City to comment and recommend sound attenuation
measures.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to explore
ways to reduce noise from vehicles.
N-7-10
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
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APPENDIX A | OPEN SPACE
OPEN SPACE
Goal 30: Protected Open Space
# Policy Department
Short-term
or Annual
Programs
Programs Activity
OS-1-7 Long-term/
Ongoing
There has been some activity impacting this element since
the 2004 adoption of the GP2020 (Gold Hill OS purchase).
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APPENDIX A | CONSERVATION
CONSERVATION
Goal 31: Protected Habitat
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CON-1-
16
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
Goal 32: Resources Used Wisely
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CON-17
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CON-18 Resource-Efficient
Building Design
CD Short-term CON-18a. Energy-
efficient Homes
(consider ordinance
requiring greater
energy efficiency in
construction)
CON-18b. Zoning and
Building Code Review
(remove barriers to
resource efficiency)
CON-18e. LEED
Program (encourage
LEED standards in
dev.)
CD: CON-18a. Completed. Since the 2004 adoption of the
General Plan 2020, the City adopted a green building
ordinance (2010) which, since initial adoption has been
updated (2013).
Recommendation: Delete program
CD: CON-18b. On-going. As noted above, a green building
ordinance was adopted in 2010. Further, in 2012, the
building permit fees for roof-mounted photovoltaic (solar)
panels was significantly reduced (going from a valuation-
based fee to a flat fee) as an incentive to support this
industry and to reduce permit review time.
Recommendation: Carry forward
CD: CON-18e. Completed. Since the 2004 adoption of the
General Plan 2020, the City adopted a green building
ordinance (2010) which, since initial adoption has been
updated (2013). The 2013 green building code
amendments deleted the LEED standards and replaced
with the more universally-applied Cal Green standards.
Recommendation: Delete program
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APPENDIX A | CONSERVATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CON-19 Energy Resources CD Short-term CON-19a. Energy
Production (consider
options, like
photovoltaic cells)
CD: CON-19a. On-going. As discussed above, in 2010, the
City adopted a green building ordinance. Further,
recently-adopted changes in the City building codes
incorporated up-to-date Title 24 standards including the
adoption of the universally-applied Cal Green standards.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CON-20 Water Conservation CD Long-Term CON-20a. Water
Conservation (Long-
Term)
CON-20b. Water
Recycling
(Long-Term)
CD: CON-20a. Completed. In 2011, MMWD adopted an
updated Water Conservation Ordinance (Ordinance 421)
to comply with State law. Both MMWD and the City have
prepared water conservation information and materials so
as to educate property managers, designers, landscape
contractors and homeowners. During the planning permit
process for development, project sponsors are directed to
MMWD Ordinance 421 and encouraged to meeting with
MMWD staff to discuss landscaped design for compliance
with water conservation requirements.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: CON-20b. On-going. Recycled water is currently
available in North San Rafael only (94903 zip code are
served by Las Gallinas Valley Sanitation District). Since the
2004 adoption of the General Plan 2020, the infrastructure
for recycled water has been extended to include serves for
projects such as Northgate Mall and 33 San Pablo Avenue.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CON-21 Waste
Reduction/Recycling
CM, CD Short-term CON-21b. Recyclable
Waste Receptacles
(support Marin
Sanitary)
CD: CON-21b. On-going.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
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APPENDIX A | CONSERVATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CON-21c. Recycling
for Apartments and
Nonresidential
Buildings (encourage
and consider
expansion
costs/benefits)
CON-21d. Demolition
Waste
CD: CON-21c On-going.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CD: CON-21d. Partially implemented and on-going. In
2012, the City adopted a construction and demolition
waste diversion ordinance. This ordinance applies to all
construction, renovation and demolition with a valuation
of over $10,000. Further, in 2011, the City adopted a Zero
Waste Goal and Strategic Plan.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CON-22
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
CON-23 Energy-Efficient
Transportation
Programs
CD, CM Short-term CON-23a. City
Carpool (encourage
incentive)
CD: CON-23a Partially implemented and on-going.
Responsibility has shifted to the City Manager’s Office.
Recommendation: Carry forward
Responsibility: Delete Community Development and
replace with City Manager.
CM: Replace title with “City Employee Commute Program”
Replace program text with “Encourage and incentivize
employee use of alternative modes of transportation
including public transit, carpools/vanpools, bicycling,
walking, and the use of energy-efficient vehicles.”
Remove Community Development from responsibility.
Replace with Human Resources.
Recommendation: Completed. Employee Commute
Program established in January 2013.
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APPENDIX A | CONSERVATION
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
CON-24 Energy-, Water-, and
Resource-Efficiency in
Government
CD, CM Short-term CON-24a. Green
Business Certification
CD: CON-24a. Partially implemented and on-going. The
City has formed the “Green Team,” which is a team of City
staff charged with promoting and implementing policies
and practices for recycling and resource-efficient
purchases for City facilities. The “Green Team” is also
working to achieve a Green Business Certification for the
City of San Rafael public facilities.
Recommendation: Carry forward.
CON-25 Energy Emergencies PW Short-term CON-25a. Backup
Energy Provision
PW: CON-25a. The City is considering moving forward
with the installation of Solar panels on several buildings to
reduce our energy consumption as well as reduce our
greenhouse gas emissions.
Public Works Fleet incorporates hybrid vehicles which
decrease fuel consumption.
Public Works Fleet also utilize biodiesel for its larger
equipment which are compatible with this type of fuel to
save energy and reduce the city’s greenhouse gas
emissions.
New Heating and Ventilation Equipment has been installed
in the City Hall which is more energy efficient and reduces
our greenhouse gas emissions.
Recommendations: (Carry Forward) Continue to pursue
new energy efficient measures to reduce the City’s
greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the cost to the City.
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APPENDIX A | AIR AND WATER QUALITY
AIR AND WATER QUALITY
Goal 33: Clean Air and Waterways
# Policy Department Timeframe Programs Activity
AW-1-2
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.
AW-3 Air Quality Planning
with Other Processes
CD Short-term AW-3a. Air Pollution
Reduction Measures
(consider zoning
regulation revisions
requiring developers
to implement
strategies for air
quality improvement
described in
BAAQMD/ABAG’s
guide “Design
Strategies for
Encouraging
Alternatives to Auto
Use Through Local
Development Review”)
CD: AW-3a. Partially implemented and on-going. Indirectly,
the City has many provisions in its current zoning ordinance
and other city requirements that are designed to improved
air quality, through requirement landscape and design
requirements for parking lots, and requirements from the
sustainability element and climate change action plan
Recommendation: Carry forward.
AW-4 Particulate Matter
Pollution Reduction
CD Short-term AW-4b. Fireplaces and
Woodburning Stoves
(cooperate with the
local air district to
monitor pollution and
enforce mitigations in
areas affected by
emissions from
woodburning)
CD: AW-4b. Completed. In 2007, the City adopted a
Municipal Code amendment, prohibiting with a few
exception allowed
Recommendation: Delete Program.
AW-5 -
11
Long-term/
Ongoing
No change on long-term and ongoing programs.