HomeMy WebLinkAboutPark & Rec Commission 2020-03-12 Agenda Packet
PARK AND RECREATION
COMMISSION AGENDA
Thursday, March 12, 2020
6:00 P.M.
San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street
CALL TO ORDER
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Roll Call
AGENDA AMENDMENTS
MINUTES
1. Approve regular meeting minutes of January 16, 2020
MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
2. Introductions/Awards/Recognitions/Presentations
3. Public Comment from the audience regarding items not listed on the agenda. Speakers are
encouraged to limit comments to 3 minutes.
MATTERS BEFORE THE COMMISSION
If necessary to assure completion of the following items, the Chairperson may establish time limits
for the presentations by individual speakers.
4. 2040 General Plan – Parks and Recreation Element
COMMISSION REPORTS AND COMMENTS
5. Other brief reports on any meetings, conferences, and/or seminars attended by the
Commission members.
STAFF COMMENTS
6. Schedule of Upcoming Meetings and Events of Interest
NEXT MEETING: April 16, 2020
ADJOURNMENT
Parks and Recreation Commission Agenda Page 2 of 2 September 20, 2018
Notice
Any records relating to an agenda item, received by a majority or more of the Council less than 72 hours
before the meeting, shall be available for inspection at the Community Services Department, San Rafael,
Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael, CA 94901, and placed with other agenda-related materials on
the table at the Commission meeting prior to the meeting. American Sign Language interpreters and assistive
listening devices may be requested by calling (415) 485-3198 (TDD) or (415) 485-3333 (voice) at least 72
hours in advance. Copies of documents are available in accessible formats upon request. Public
transportation is available through Golden Gate Transit, Line 20 or 23. Paratransit is available by calling
Whistlestop Wheels at (415) 454-0964. To allow individuals with environmental illness or multiple chemical
sensitivity to attend the meeting/hearing, individuals are requested to refrain from wearing scented products.
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PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION
DRAFT MINUTES
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
San Rafael Community Center – 618 B Street, San Rafael, CA
January 16, 2020 – 6:00 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Jeff Jones called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Commissioners Present: Chair Jeff Jones, Vice Chair Stacey Laumann (arrived at 6:08),
Mark Machado, Ariel Gutierrez, Tom Obletz, Kathryn Reisinger,
Cecily Emerson, Jeren Seibel
Commissioners Absent: None
Staff Present: Susan Andrade-Wax, Library & Recreation Director, Becky Ordin,
Senior Administrative Assistant, Catherine Quffa, Assistant Library
& Recreation Director, and Ashley Howe, Senior Recreation
Supervisor
AGENDA AMENDMENTS
None
MINUTES
1. Approve regular meeting minutes of November 21, 2020
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A motion was made by Commissioner Machado, seconded by Commissioner Reisinger, to
approve the minutes of the November 21, 2020 meeting. The motion was approved
unanimously.
MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
2. Introductions/Awards/Recognitions/Presentations
Ms. Andrade-Wax introduced Catherine Quffa. Ms. Quffa is our new Library & Recreation
Assistant Director, and her purview is the Recreation and Child Care division.
3. Public Comment from the audience regarding items not listed on the agenda
None
MATTERS BEFORE THE COMMISSION
4. California Park and Recreation Society – District 1 Community Service Award
Ms. Andrade-Wax introduced Ashley Howe, Senior Recreation Supervisor at the Falkirk
Cultural Center. Ms. Howe presented the information for the California Park and Recreation
Society – District 1 Community Service Award. We would like to have the Commission
consider nominating the B Team for the award.
Commissioner Laumann asked if it a given that they will get the award if they are nominated.
Ms. Howe replied that yes, they will receive the award.
Commissioner Seibel asked if there were plans for continuance. Ms. Howe answered yes this
is an ongoing group. The B Team is a group of very engaged community members.
Commissioner Seibel asked if the Measure A funding runs through 2021 or 2022? Ms.
Andrade-Wax replied funding runs through 2021. Ms. Howe noted that the recognition for the
Community Service for 2019, but this team has been involved in over 3 years.
Commissioner Laumann made a motion to nominate the B Team for the CPRS District 1
Community Service Award. Commissioner Machado seconded the motion.
AYES: Commissioners: Machado, Laumann, Jones, Gutierrez, Obletz, Reisinger,
Emerson
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NOES: Commissioners: None
ABSENT: Commissioners: None
Commission Reports and Comments
5. Other brief reports on any meetings, conferences, and/or seminars attended by
the Commission members.
Commissioner Reisinger attended the Pickleweed Advisory Board meeting the prior week.
This was the first meeting for the year. There was a presentation from the Canal Alliance, and
they are working on creating guidelines for free meeting space at the Albert J. Boro
Community Center. Steve Mason and his team are working on streamlining the process.
They were able to put the Canal Alliance in touch with Whistle Stop to grow their ESL program
for the active older adults.
Commissioner Jones attended the General Plan meeting. The draft of the Parks and
Recreation Element and Policies was presented. Ms. Andrade-Wax was able to attend the
meeting as well and clarified some of the information. The City of San Rafael does not have a
comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan for the City and there was a healthy debate
about that. The committee has until the end of the month to comment on the report. The
consultant will be bringing the report to the Park and Recreation Commission at their March
meeting to receive feedback on the draft document and provide other recommendations.
Staff Comments
6. Schedule of Upcoming Meetings and Events of Interest
Ms. Andrade-Wax shared the City Council’s recommendation from their October 7, 2019
meeting where the Library Planning Study was presented. The City Council directed staff to
develop a Conceptual Plan for the joint Library and Community Center at Albert Park. Staff
has begun working on a scope of services for the RFP (Request for Proposal) which they hope
will be completed and posted in late spring.
The proposed Parks and Recreation Element and Policies from the 2040 General Plan update
will be presented to the Commission in March. However, March 19 will not work so Ms.
Andrade-Wax proposed two alternative dates in March to conduct the next Park and
Recreation Commission meeting; March 12 or March 26.
Adjournment
4
The meeting was adjourned 6:44 p.m.
____________________________________________
BECKY ORDIN, Senior Administrative Assistant
APPROVED THIS_____DAY OF___________, 2020
____________________________________________
SUSAN ANDRADE-WAX, Library & Recreation Director
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PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION
AGENDA REPORT
March 12, 2020
Item # 4
TITLE: 2040 GENERAL PLAN – PARK AND RECREATION ELEMENT
SUMMARY
The City of San Rafael is in the process of updating its General Plan. The Plan includes
15 chapters or “elements” covering a variety of topics relating to San Rafael’s future.
One of the elements covers parks and recreation. Direction on the Plan’s policies is
provided by a 24-member Steering Committee appointed by the City Council in
December 2017. Commissioner Jones represents the Parks and Recreation
Commission on that Committee
Staff prepared Draft Parks and Recreation policies for the 2040 General Plan in
November 2019. The policies incorporate feedback from City staff and the General
Plan Steering Committee, as well as an “audit” of the policies in the prior (2020) General
Plan. The new Parks and Recreation Element is somewhat shorter and more
generalized than the existing plan, while covering several topics not addressed by the
2020 Plan. Detailed planning for the City’s park system is presumed to occur through a
Parks and Recreation Master Plan that will be prepared after the General Plan is
adopted.
The proposed 2040 policies are included as Attachment 1 to this staff report.
Attachment 2 compares the 2040 policies with the 2020 policies in two side-by-side
columns, with a third column provided for Commissioner comments.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Commission receive the report and provide comments to staff.
BACKGROUND
Every City and County is required by State law to prepare a General Plan for its future
growth and development. San Rafael’s existing Plan was adopted in 2004 and looked
ahead to the Year 2020. The City is currently updated the Plan to move the horizon to the
year 2040. The intent is not to completely rewrite the existing plan, but rather to
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strategically update existing policies to address current issues, growth forecasts, and
State laws.
Parks and Recreation is considered an “optional” element of the General Plan (it is not
one of the eight “elements” required by State law). However, the City has had a Parks
and Recreation Element in its Plan for the last four decades, recognizing the importance
of parks to the quality of life in the City. The Element addresses the need for parkland,
recreational facilities, park maintenance and operations support, and recreation
programming.
General Plan 2000 (adopted in 1988) included a brief set of high-level policies on parks
and recreation. These policies were significantly expanded in General Plan 2020, with
specific improvement recommendations for each park. The proposed 2040 Draft
policies return to a higher-level set of policies, without recommendations for individual
parks. This is the traditional approach taken by most cities.
The 2040 Plan calls for the City to prepare a Parks Master Plan following adoption of
the General Plan. The Parks Master Plan will include a detailed assessment of existing
facilities, an analysis and survey of local recreational needs, and site-by-site
recommendations or each park, as well as recommendations for systemwide
improvements. The Master Plan will also include recommendations for maintenance,
operations, programming, funding, and partnerships with other service providers. The
2040 General Plan provides foundational policies on these topics but does not include
prescriptive details.
The Draft policies reflect input from the General Plan Steering Committee, who had a
discussion of parks and recreation in Spring 2019. Staff also considered guidance from
the State Office of Planning and Research, as well as input from the Library and
Recreation Director, the Parks and Recreation Commission (consulted at a meeting in
2018), and the general public. A “best practices” review of about a dozen recent
general plans was conducted to review how other California cities handled parks and
recreation issues in their plans, and what topics were typically addressed in the general
plan vs a parks master plan. City staff also completed an “Existing Conditions Report”
on parks and recreation, which includes a current inventory of parkland and recreational
facilities in the city.
DISCUSSION
The proposed Parks and Recreation Element goals, policies, and programs are
included on the following pages. There are two goals: the first addresses parks, while
the second addresses recreational operations and programming. A summary of the
policies is presented below:
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Goal 1 is to “Sustain high quality parks that meet the recreational needs of all
those who live and work in San Rafael.”
• Policy 1.1 establishes a classification system for parks, much as the 2020 Plan did.
It also calls for a Parks Master Plan.
• Policy 1.2 establishes a park per capita acreage standard of 4.5 acres per 1,000
residents, which is based on the existing ratio as of 2020. This is an increase over
the current standard of 3 acres per 1,000. This policy calls for continued collection
of park impact fees for new development, with an exemption for rental housing.
• Policy 1.3 calls for a more even distribution of parks, recognizing that some
neighborhoods are not as well served as others. The Element does not identify
specific sites for new parks but does suggest that parks be strongly considered on
the open space portions of school sites, in the event any schools are closed in the
future.
• Policy 1.4 addresses park design.
• Policy 1.5 addresses the image of the park system, including consistent, attractive
signage and branding.
• Policy 1.6 addresses park improvements. Whereas the 2020 Plan included a long
list of improvements desired in each park, the 2040 Plan presumes this will be
determined through a Parks Master Plan.
• Policy 1.7 recommends all-weather field design.
• Policy 1.8 encourages linear parks and trails along features such as creeks and the
shoreline.
• Policy 1.9 addresses the role of passive open space in the park system.
• Policy 1.10 recognizes the link between parks and historic preservation, including
the preservation of historic homes and buildings as recreational and cultural
facilities.
• Policy 1.11 addresses urban parks and plazas.
• Policy 1.12 calls for joint use agreements with the Schools to facilitate public access
to school facilities when school is not in session.
• Policy 1.13 addresses the incorporation of recreational facilities in development
projects, including rooftop open space.
• Policy 1.14 supports commercial recreation enterprises that complement public
facilities (swim clubs, tennis clubs, marinas, etc.).
• Policy 1.15 calls for a high level of park maintenance.
• Policy 1.16 addresses the funding of park improvement and maintenance.
• Policy 1.17 addresses sustainability and the role of parks in the City’s greenhouse
gas reduction and climate adaptation efforts.
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Goal 2 is to “Provide accessible, affordable recreational programming that is
responsive to public needs and promotes fitness, health, knowledge, cultural
understanding, and personal growth.”
• Policy 2.1 calls for a diverse range of programs to meet the recreational needs of
San Rafael residents.
• Policy 2.2 ensures that recreational programs evolve in response to demographics,
recreation trends, and user preferences.
• Policy 2.3 recommends coordinated programming between the City and other
recreation service providers to avoid redundancy.
• Policy 2.4 supports the continued delivery of child care and services for older adults
through the City’s community centers and schools.
• Policy 2.5 recognizes the link between recreation and community health and
wellness.
• Policy 2.6 addresses partnerships with local artists, fitness and sports advocates,
and creative professionals in delivering recreation services.
• Policy 2.7 supports community events.
• Policy 2.8 carries forward language on community gardens.
• Policy 2.9 addresses environmental education and programming.
• Policy 2.10 recognizes the role of community centers in resiliency planning and
community support.
FISCAL IMPACT
The General Plan is a policy document and does not have a direct fiscal impact. However,
the Plan informs the Capital Improvements Program and helps set budgeting and
spending priorities for future City service delivery.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Any other action as determined by the Commission.
Submitted by:
/bjm/
Barry Miller
Consulting Project Manager, General Plan 2040
Attachments:
1. Draft Parks and Recreation Policies
2. Comparison of 2040 policies with 2020 policies
Parks and Recreation Element Draft 2040 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 1
SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN 2040
DRAFT PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT POLICIES
GOAL PROS-1: PARKS FOR ALL
Sustain high quality parks that meet the recreational needs of all those who live and work in San
Rafael. San Rafael recognizes the essential nature of parks and recreation to its residents. Parks
support health and wellness, protect the environment, add beauty to San Rafael neighborhoods, and are
integral to life in the city. They should be maintained for all to enjoy.
Policy PROS-1.1: Park Classification
Maintain a system of community, neighborhood, pocket, and special use parks. These parks should be
complemented by larger region-serving parks and open spaces, and by school recreation areas.
Program PROS-1.1A: Parks Master Plan. Prepare a Parks Master Plan, including citywide
recommendations for park management, operations, facility development, and recreation service
delivery, as well as recommendations for each City-owned park.
Program PROS 1.1B: Capital Improvement Program. Use the Capital Improvement Program
to identify funding sources and timing of parks and recreation capital projects.
Policy PROS-1.2: Per Capita Acreage Standard
Maintain a standard of 4.5 acres of active park and recreation land per 1,000 residents.
Program PROS-1.2A: Municipal Code Amendment. Modify Chapter 15.09 of the Municipal
Code to establish a parkland dedication requirement of 4.5 acres per 1,000, which will help the
City sustain its current ratio.
Program PROS-1.2B: Park In Lieu Fees. Periodically adjust park in-lieu fees to reflect the cost
of land and facilities. To reduce further increases in housing costs, maintain the park in-lieu fee
exemption and dedication requirement for rental housing.
Policy PROS 1.3: Distribution of Parks
Strive for a balanced distribution of neighborhood and community parks across the city. When planning
new parks, a priority should be placed on areas which are more than a 15-minute walk from the nearest
park, or where park needs are unusually high due to higher housing densities and social and economic
conditions.
Program PROS-1.3A: New Parks. Develop additional parks in areas with unmet needs and in
areas experiencing growth. Opportunities to create new parks within new development and on
underutilized public land should be pursued.
Program PROS-1.3B: Parks on Former School Sites. Work with San Rafael City Schools and
the Miller Creek School District to identify ways to acquire on-site recreational facilities in the
event that school properties are closed, leased, or offered for sale.
ATTACHMENT 1
Parks and Recreation Element Draft 2040 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 2
Program PROS-1.3C: Adaptation Projects. Incorporate shoreline access and new recreational
amenities in sea level rise adaptation projects where feasible.
See the Land Use Element for policies about density on former school sites.
PROS 1.4 Park Design
Design parks so that they are comfortable, attractive, inviting spaces. Park design should balance
recreation, environmental, safety, and aesthetic considerations while avoiding conflicts with surrounding
neighborhoods.
Program PROS 1.4A: Park Plan Review. Work with qualified landscape architects, the Design
Review Board, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Planning Commission when
preparing and reviewing park master plans and designing park improvements. Park projects
should receive a level of design review similar to that required for private recreational facilities.
Program PROS 1.4B: Community Engagement. Engage the community in park planning and
facility development. To ensure balance, comments should be solicited from non-advocates as
well as advocates, including groups and individuals who would be affected by such
improvements.
Policy PROS-1.5: Park Image
Create a positive image of the City’s park system.
Program PROS-1.5A: Branding and Signage. Develop and implement consistent branding,
signage, and wayfinding programs for San Rafael’s parks that identify park properties and help
the public locate parks and navigate around them. Park signage should be attractive, durable,
and contribute to civic pride and identity.
Policy PROS-1.6: Park Improvements
Regularly upgrade and modernize San Rafael’s parks to meet the recreational needs of the community
and replace aging or deficient facilities.
Program PROS-1.6A: Needs Assessment. Conduct a needs assessment as part of a Parks
Master Plan. Recreational facility needs should be periodically reevaluated in response to
trends, demographics, and changing conditions.
Program PROS-1.6B Park Improvements. Prepare plans to improve neighborhood and
community park facilities and seek funding to implement these plans.
Policy PROS-1.7: Field Design
Encourage athletic field design which maximizes versatility and the ability to use fields year-round.
Program PROS-1.7A: Field Improvements. Evaluate local athletic fields as part of a Parks
Master Plan. Develop design and capital facility recommendations for fields based on the
findings.
Parks and Recreation Element Draft 2040 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 3
Policy PROS-1.8: Linear Parks and Trails
Encourage linear parks and trails along the Bay shoreline, the San Rafael Canal, local creeks, and
transportation corridors such as the SMART right-of-way. Where feasible, spur trails should connect
linear parks to nearby neighborhoods.
Program PROS-1.8A: Trails Master Plan. Pursue grant funding for a Trails Master Plan,
including provisions to improve access and signage to park and open space areas from San
Rafael neighborhoods. The Plan should incorporate the “greenway” improvements from the
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, as well as plans for the Bay Trail, Canal walkway, North
San Rafael promenade, and “water” trails for kayaks in San Francisco Bay.
Policy PROS-1.9: Role of Open Space
Recognize San Rafael’s open space network as an essential component of the park system, including its
potential to provide for hiking, picnicking, wildlife observation, environmental education, and enjoyment
of nature. Passive recreational activities such as hiking and picnicking, should be encouraged in these
areas where consistent with habitat protection and hazard reduction goals.
Program PROS-1.9A: Coordination with Open Space Managers. Work with the County of
Marin/ Marin Open Space District and the State of California to encourage local use of their
parks and open space areas within San Rafael. As needed, meet with County and State Park
service providers to discuss issues of mutual interest, review plans and programs, and consider
opportunities for joint projects and better connections between City, County, and State parks.
Policy PROS 1.10: Historic Preservation and Parks
Incorporate important historic and cultural resources into the City park system, including historic homes
and the grounds around them. The use of such spaces for cultural and recreational programming is
strongly encouraged.
Policy PROS 1.11: Urban Parks and Plazas
Encourage the creation of small gathering places open to the public in Downtown San Rafael and other
business districts, including plazas, green spaces, activated alleys, and similar features.
Program PROS 1.11A: Design for All Users. Engage social service providers, including
organizations serving unsheltered residents, in the design and management of urban open space
to safely accommodate all users and minimize conflicts in the use of such spaces.
Policy PROS 1.12: Joint Use
Encourage formal agreements with the School Districts that allow for the joint development, maintenance
and use of school facilities for recreational use when schools is not in session. Agreements should also
address access to school parking lots for sporting events and other measures to minimize the impacts of
joint use on nearby neighborhoods.
Program PROS-1.12A: Joint Use Agreements. Work with SRCS and MCSD to formalize joint
use agreements for parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and other school facilities.
Policy PROS 1.13: Recreational Facilities in Development Projects
Parks and Recreation Element Draft 2040 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 4
Encourage the construction of on-site recreational facilities in multi-family, mixed use, and office projects
to supplement the facilities available in City parks.
Program PROS-1.13A: Onsite Recreation Facilities. Continue to implement zoning regulations
that require appropriate recreational facilities in new development.
Program PROS-1.13B: Rooftop Open Space. Encourage the development of rooftop open space
in higher density residential, mixed use, and commercial projects. Such spaces should be
designed to minimize the potential for noise, privacy, and light impacts on nearby properties.
Policy PROS 1.14: Commercial Recreation
Encourage private sector development of recreational facilities to serve community needs, such as
commercial recreation and athletic field facilities, swim clubs, tennis clubs, marinas, and gyms and health
clubs.
Program PROS-1.14A: Commercial Recreation. Consider amending the zoning ordinance to
allow a floor area ratio exemption for on-site recreational facilities open to the public.
Policy PROS-1.15: Park Maintenance
Provide a high level of maintenance that allows San Rafael’s parks to fully meet recreational needs and
serve as valued community assets.
Program PROS-1.15A: Cost Considerations in New Projects. Consider maintenance and long-
term operating costs when developing any new facility or modernizing an existing facility.
Sustainable funding mechanisms for maintenance should be identified for every capital project.
Program PROS-1.15B: Park Stewardship. Consider “adopt a park” programs and other
stewardship initiatives that engage volunteers in park clean-up and maintenance.
Policy PROS 1.16: Funding
Pursue diverse funding sources for park improvement and maintenance.
Program PROS-1.16A: Park Funding Strategy. Seek new and ongoing sources of funds for
park development and maintenance, including grants, foundations, bonds, taxes and assessment
districts, impact fees, contributions from “Friends” organizations, renewal of Measure A, private
donations and land dedications, public/private joint ventures, the Capital Improvement Program,
and all other available means.
Program PROS-1.16B: Partnerships. Encourage partnerships with neighborhood organizations
and residents in projects to improve existing parks.
Program PROS-1.16C: Naming Rights and Gifts in Place. Explore opportunities to generate
revenue through naming rights, sponsorships, and gifts-in-place.
Parks and Recreation Element Draft 2040 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 5
Program PROS-1.6D: Sale, Lease, or Contractual Agreements. In the event City-owned park or
open space land is sold or leased in the future, require that the proceeds are appropriately used
to support park improvements, maintenance, or operating costs.
Policy PROS-1.17 Sustainable Park Operations
Encourage sustainable park management and operations that enhances the role of parks as green
infrastructure and part of the City’s climate resilience strategy.
Program PROS-1.17A: Sustainable Design. Incorporate sustainability principles such as
reduced water and energy, use of recycled and non-toxic materials, stormwater capture, and
carbon sequestration, in the design of park facilities and grounds. Parks should also support the
City’s wildfire prevention and sea level rise adaptation strategies, and be designed to maximize
their accessibility by pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users.
Program PROS-1.17B: Climate Adaptation. Address potential design changes to local parks in
the City’s sea level rise and climate adaptation strategies.
See also Conservation Policy ### on integrated pest management
GOAL PROS-2: EXCELLENCE IN RECREATION PROGRAMMING
Provide accessible, affordable recreational programming that is responsive to public needs and
promotes fitness, health, knowledge, cultural understanding, and personal growth.
Policy PROS-2.1: Meeting Diverse Needs. Ensure that recreational programs and facilities meet the
needs of all San Rafael residents, particularly young children, youth, and older adults.
Program PROS-2.1A: Age-Specific Programs. Provide facilities and programs that are
specifically designed to meet the needs of children, teens, and older adults, as well as those
designed for intergenerational participants.
Program PROS-2.1B: Cultural Competency. Provide culturally competent programming that
reflects the diversity of San Rafael’s population.
Policy PROS-2.2: Responding to Changing Community Needs. Continually adapt recreational
programs to meet changing community needs and interests.
Program PROS-2.2A: Recreational Programs. Monitor and evaluate participation in the City’s
recreational programs and use this information when developing new programs.
Program PROS-2.2B: Surveys. Conduct periodic surveys in English and Spanish to evaluate
recreational needs in neighborhoods and the City as a whole.
Policy PROS-2.3: Coordinated Programming
Work with local public schools, the County of Marin, sports leagues and athletic associations, community
service organizations, and other agencies to provide complementary and mutually supportive
programming. Joint ventures with other service providers should be encouraged.
Parks and Recreation Element Draft 2040 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 6
Program PROS-2.3A: Summer Programs. Provide increased programming during periods when
children are out of school, including summer youth programs at locations convenient to each
neighborhood.
Policy PROS-2.4: Services for Young Children and Older Adults
Continue to provide child care and social services for older adults through the City’s parks, schools, and
community centers.
Program PROS-2.4A: Operating Hours. Maintain operating hours that meet public needs and
accommodate activities such as child care and after school care.
Policy PROS-2.5: Recreation and Health
Provide programs and activities that contribute to physical and mental health, personal growth, and the
leisure time needs of San Rafael residents.
Policy PROS-2.6: Local Partners
Engage local artists, athletes, craftspeople, health and fitness workers, creative professionals, and others
in the delivery of recreational classes and programs.
Program PROS-2.6A: User Fees. Recover a portion of recreational program costs through user
fees, facility rentals, and other direct charges for public use. Provisions for reduced fees for low
income and special needs patrons should be included.
Policy PROS-2.7: Community Events
Encourage special events, festivals, street fairs, and community programs that build civic unity and bring
residents of different backgrounds together.
Policy PROS-2.8: Community Gardens
Continue to support and maintain community gardens and look for ways to sustain such gardens as food
sources.
Policy PROS-2.9: Environmental Education
Pursue opportunities for environmental education in the parks, including classes and programs,
interpretive trails and boardwalks, and plaques and markers that raise awareness of nature and climate
change.
Policy PROS-2.10: Community Centers
Recognize the role of parks and community centers in supporting community resilience and emergency
preparedness.
Program PROS-2.10A: Back-Up Power. Maintain back-up power sources at the City’s
community centers so they remain operational during power outages. Community centers should
serve as community gathering places in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Proposed 2040 General Plan Parks and Recreation Policies Compared to Existing 2020 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 1
Proposed 2040 Plan Origin of statement (2020 Plan, etc.) Comments
ATTACHMENT 2: PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT: Proposed 2040 Policies Compared to 2020 Policies
GOAL PROS-1: PARKS FOR ALL
Sustain high quality parks that meet the recreational
needs of all those who live and work in San Rafael. San
Rafael recognizes the essential nature of parks and
recreation to its residents. Parks support health and
wellness, protect the environment, add beauty to San Rafael
neighborhoods, and are integral to life in the city. They
should be maintained for all to enjoy.
PARKS AND PROGRAMS FOR ALL
It is the goal for San Rafael to have recreation
facilities and programs, parks and playfields for all
age groups throughout the community. San Rafael
recognizes the essential nature of Parks and Recreational
services to its residents. Numerous parks, public spaces,
and playing fields are integral to the life of the City.
Recreational facilities and playfields are well maintained
and consistently upgraded. Attention to community need
generates proposals for new facilities.
Policy PROS-1.1: Park Classification
Maintain a system of community, neighborhood, pocket, and
special use parks. These parks should be complemented by
larger region-serving parks and open spaces, and by school
recreation areas.
Policy PR-2: Park Development Criteria
Use the following criteria as a guide to improving the
park system:
a. Neighborhood parks should serve populations of at
least 3,000 within a radius of one-half mile, and have
a minimum size of three acres.
b. Community parks should serve a population of
10,000 to 30,000 within a radius of three to five miles,
and have a size of 20 acres or more.
The Parks and Recreation Element will still have
standards for service area, size, radius and
population for neighborhood and community parks
but they will be expressed in the text rather than in
this policy.
Program PROS-1.1A: Parks Master Plan. Prepare a Parks
Master Plan, including citywide recommendations for park
management, operations, facility development, and
recreation service delivery, as well as recommendations for
each City-owned park.
N/A New
Program PROS 1.1B: Capital Improvement Program. Use
the Capital Improvement Program to identify funding
sources and timing of parks and recreation capital projects.
Program PR-2a: Park Criteria. Use the park
development criteria when evaluating proposals for new
parks and park improvements.
PR-2a is effectively deleted and replaced by PROS-
1b. The text will explain that the standards should
be used when evaluating proposals.
Policy PROS-1.2: Per Capita Acreage Standard
Maintain a standard of 4.5 acres of active park and recreation
land per 1,000 residents.
Policy PR-1: Standards
Maintain, and where possible exceed, a recreation
standard of three acres of park and recreation facilities
per 1,000 residents.
Standard increased to 4.5 ac/1,000 to reflect
existing conditions.
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Program PROS-1.2A: Municipal Code Amendment.
Modify Chapter 15.09 of the Municipal Code to establish a
parkland dedication requirement of five acres per 1,000,
which will help the City sustain the current ratio of 5.1 acres
of active parkland per 1,000 residents.
Program PR-1a: Recreation Standard. Use the
recreation standard when evaluating proposals for new
parks. Consider the creation of neighborhood parks of
less than three acres when it can be demonstrated that
such a facility would satisfy an unmet neighborhood
need, provide recreational value and be a sufficient size
to support desired infrastructure.
Program PROS-1.2B: Park In Lieu Fees. Periodically
adjust park in-lieu fees to reflect the cost of land and
facilities. To reduce further increases in housing costs,
maintain the park in-lieu fee exemption and dedication
requirement for rental housing.
Policy PR-25: Contributions by Ownership
Residential Development
Require developers of new residential housing to provide
for the recreational needs of future residents of that
development in accordance with Recreation Element
standards and Quimby Act Subdivision Parkland
Dedication Requirements. Needs would be satisfied by
the dedication of land and development of recreation
facilities to serve the new residents. In-lieu fees will be
required if a finding is made that dedication and
development of parkland is not a feasible or appropriate
option.
Program PR-25a: Parkland Dedication Ordinance.
Maintain and update as necessary the Parkland
Dedication Ordinance.
Policy PR-24: Contributions by Rental Residential
Development Explore the feasibility of requiring
contributions from rental residential development towards
park improvements.
Program PR-24a: Rental Residential Contributions.
Evaluate the feasibility of adopting an ordinance to
require developers of apartments to contribute to park
improvements.
Note policy change: Although we are increasing the
park dedication standard, we are suggesting that
rental housing continue to be exempt to avoid
further increases in rental housing costs.
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Policy PROS 1.3: Distribution of Parks
Strive for a balanced distribution of neighborhood and
community parks across the city. When planning new parks,
a priority should be placed on areas which are more than a
15-minute walk from the nearest park, or where park needs
are unusually high due to higher housing densities and social
and economic conditions.
Policy PR-3: Neighborhood Recreational Needs
Serve all neighborhoods with neighborhood and/or
community parks that meet the needs of the community.
Priority areas should include Canal, Dominican, and
Montecito neighborhoods.
Program PROS-1.3A: New Parks. Develop additional parks
in areas with unmet needs and in areas experiencing growth.
Opportunities to create new parks within new development
and on underutilized public land should be pursued.
Program PR-3a: Neighborhood Recreational Needs.
Develop individual park plans as opportunities become
available, determining cost estimates and priorities.
Policy PR-9: New Parks.
Provide additional park sites as identified below. Park
sites should be in the service area and designed to meet
the needs of the targeted population, giving priority to
underserved neighborhoods. If sites are unavailable,
consider alternative park sites that are within the vicinity
of the service area. Encourage the development of new
parks as follows:
a. Bellam/Windward Way site. Prepare a park master
plan that responds to the traffic and environmental
constraints of the property. Explore passive and
active recreational opportunities. Consider
development on a portion of the site for private or
public non-recreational use if it would benefit the
neighborhood and provide funding for park
improvements.
b. Montecito/Happy Valley. Pursue opportunities to
provide a neighborhood park. Encourage San Rafael
High School or School District corporation yard to
provide a neighborhood park with play facilities for
toddlers and young children. Work with San Rafael
City Schools to identify a potential park site.
c. Dominican. Pursue opportunities to provide a
neighborhood park and/or recreation facilities in
Dominican/Black Canyon. For example, encourage
Dominican University to provide a neighborhood
park and/or access to recreational facilities. Work
with Dominican University in conjunction with the
Place-based recommendations removed from
Element. The text will identify areas of unmet
needs, but sites for new parks will be determined by
a Parks Master Plan.
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future Master Plan to identify potential park and/or
recreational facilities.
d. Lincoln/San Rafael Hill. Pursue opportunities to
provide a neighborhood park in the Lincoln/San
Rafael Hill neighborhood.
e. Unincorporated Areas. Encourage the County to
provide on-site recreation facilities in new
subdivisions due to their low-density character (i.e.,
lack of population to support additional public
neighborhood park facilities) and the distance to
existing neighborhood park and school facilities.
Program PR-9a: New Parks. Prepare plans, seek
funding and create new neighborhood park facilities.
Program PROS-1.3B: Parks on Former School Sites. Work
with San Rafael City Schools and the Miller Creek School
District to identify ways to acquire on-site recreational
facilities in the event that school properties are closed,
leased, or offered for sale.
Policy PR-20: School Site Recreation Facilities
Attempt to secure the continued public use of recreational
facilities at schools that are closed, or that could be closed
during the time of the plan. Refer to Appendix D for
recreation facilities on school sites and acreage to retain.
Program PR-20a: Preservation of School Recreation
Facilities. Allow clustering of development in order to
preserve recreation facilities at surplused school sites
Program PR-20b: School Site Recreational Facilities.
When a school site is proposed to be sold, designate a
School Liaison Committee composed of two City Council
and two School Board members to identify ways to
acquire recreation facilities on the school site, after
consultations with affected community and neighborhood
residents, appropriate staff and advisory committees.
Program PROS-1.3C: Adaptation Projects. Incorporate
shoreline access and new recreational amenities in sea level
rise adaptation projects where feasible.
New
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Policy PROS 1.4 Park Design
Design parks so that they are comfortable, attractive, inviting
spaces. Park design should balance recreation,
environmental, safety, and aesthetic considerations while
avoiding conflicts with surrounding neighborhoods.
Policy PR-17: Park Design. Design recreation facilities
to be safe, attractive and easy-to-maintain in order to
minimize conflicts with surrounding neighborhoods and
to protect sensitive natural resource areas.
Program PROS 1.4A: Park Plan Review. Work with
qualified landscape architects, the Design Review Board, the
Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Planning
Commission when preparing and reviewing park master
plans and designing park improvements. Park projects
should receive a level of design review similar to that
required for private recreational facilities.
Policy PR-17a: Park Plan Review. Work with qualified
landscape architects, the Design Review Board, the Parks
and Recreation Commission, and the Planning
Commission when preparing and reviewing park master
plans and designing park improvements. Review park
plans and projects similar to the level of design review
required of privately developed recreational facilities
Program PR-3a: Parks and Recreation Commission
Priorities. On a periodic basis, work with the Parks and
Recreation Commission to recommend priorities for park
improvements.
Program PROS 1.4B: Community Engagement. Engage
the community in park planning and facility development.
To ensure balance, comments should be solicited from non-
advocates as well as advocates, including groups and
individuals who would be affected by such improvements.
Policy PR-18: Community Involvement in Park
Planning Encourage and facilitate the participation of
residents, sports groups and civic organizations in park
planning and design.
Program PR-18a: Community Involvement. Work with
park neighbors, user groups, civic organizations and
neighborhood associations when preparing park master
plans and designing park improvements.
Policy PROS-1.5: Park Image
Create a positive image of the City’s park system.
New
Program PROS-1.5A: Branding and Signage. Develop and
implement consistent branding, signage, and wayfinding
programs for San Rafael’s parks that identify park properties
and help the public locate parks and navigate around them.
Park signage should be attractive, durable, and contribute to
civic pride and identity.
New
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Policy PROS-1.6: Park Improvements
Regularly upgrade and modernize San Rafael’s parks to
meet the recreational needs of the community and replace
aging or deficient facilities.
Policy PR-6: Community Center Improvements.
Upgrade or expand San Rafael’s community centers to meet the
passive and active recreational needs of the population.
a. Pickleweed Community Center. Renovate and expand the
facility according to the Pickleweed Expansion Plan (April,
2002).
b. San Rafael Community Center. Complete implementation
of the Albert Park Master Plan.
c. Terra Linda Community Center. Prepare a site master plan
addressing buildings and grounds.
Policy PR-7: Community Park Improvements
Upgrade San Rafael’s community parks to meet the recreational
needs of the served population.
a. Albert Park. Complete implementation of the park master
plan with the addition of group picnic facilities, basketball
court, water play feature and the Downtown Promenade
(from Mahon Creek at Albert Park Lane to Andersen Drive
with views of Mission San Rafael Archangel).
b. Bernard Hoffman. Complete field improvements and
restroom installation.
c. Boyd Park. Implement the Boyd Park Master Plan
(including History Museum). Explore uses for vacant parcel
on Robert Dollar Drive adjacent to the Park.
d. Gerstle Park. Prepare a master plan that addresses
renovation and development needs.
e. Pickleweed Park. Complete construction of the Jean and
John Starkweather Shoreline Park around Pickleweed Park.
f. Shoreline Park. Complete implementation of the Jean and
John Starkweather Shoreline Park Master Plan, continuing
to oversee the development of the privately- and publicly-
owned sections of the park consistent with the San Rafael
Shoreline Park Master Plan and the Shoreline Enhancement
Plan.
Policy PR-8: Neighborhood Park Improvements.
Upgrade San Rafael’s neighborhood parks to meet the
recreational needs of the served population.
a. Beach Park. Prepare a master plan prior to expiration of the
lease of adjacent City property to the San Rafael Yacht
Harbor. Consider possible expansion and improvements
which would support the proposed Canal Waterway Vision.
b. Bret Harte Park. Complete implementation of the Bret
Harte Park Master Plan. Evaluate ways to improve access
PR-6, PR-7, and PR-8 from the 2020 Plan have been
deleted and replaced with a much more general
policy to upgrade and modernize parks and
recreational facilities to meet community needs.
Detailed recommendations for individual parks will
be in a Parks Master Plan, to be prepared after the
GP is adopted.
Policies 12 and 13, which reference specific facilities
(pool, senior center) also have been deleted here,
although the Community Services Element will
include policies related to a senior center and
services for older adults.
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from the park into hillside open space land to the south to
provide picnic and hiking opportunities.
c. Freitas Park. Complete implementation of the Freitas Park
Master Plan. Consider the sale of the northern parcel to
provide funding for Freitas Park improvements.
d. Munson Park. Improve the park consistent with the
recommendations of the North San Rafael Vision
Promenade Conceptual Plan.
e. Peacock Gap Park. Update the Peacock Gap Park Master
Plan as needed to improve trails and access to open space.
f. Ranchitos Park. Build the park as part of approved
subdivision improvements.
g. Riviera Park. Improve playground equipment.
h. Russom Park. Prepare a park master plan.
i. Santa Margarita Park. Complete implementation of the
Santa Margarita Park Master Plan.
j. Schoen Park. Prepare a park master plan to finalize
Shoreline Park link, and to provide appropriate recreation
amenities
k. Sun Valley Park. Complete planned park improvements.
The following parks require no further park improvements
at this time. During the five-year General Plan review, they
will be assessed to determine if the situation has changed:
Bayside Mini Park, Beach Park, Hartzell Park, Oleander
Park, Terra Linda Park, Victor Jones Park
Policy PR-12 Public Pools
Address the need for more public pools south of Puerto Suello
Hill in San Rafael.
Program PR-12a Public Pool. Explore opportunities to
construct a year-round pool in central San Rafael.
Policy PR-13: Senior Recreational Facilities
Provide dedicated facilities for senior recreational activities.
Program PR-13a: Senior Facilities. Identify a site(s) and seek
funding for senior recreational facilities.
Program PROS-1.6A: Needs Assessment. Conduct a needs
assessment as part of a Parks Master Plan. Recreational
facility needs should be periodically reevaluated in response
to trends, demographics, and changing conditions.
New
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Program PROS-1.6B Park Improvements. Prepare plans to
improve neighborhood and community park facilities and
seek funding to implement these plans.
Program PR-6a: Community Center Improvements.
Prepare plans, seek funding and improve community
center facilities
Program PR-7a: Community Park Improvements.
Prepare plans, seek funding and improve community park
facilities.
Program PR-8a: Neighborhood Park Improvements.
Prepare plans, seek funding and improve neighborhood
park facilities. Encourage partnerships with
neighborhood organizations and residents in projects to
improve existing parks.
Combines three programs
Policy PROS-1.7: Field Design
Encourage athletic field design which maximizes versatility
and the ability to use fields year-round.
Program PR-4a: All-Weather Fields. Provide cost-
effective all-weather fields to optimize year-round use of
community sports facilities. As fields are rebuilt, consider
the feasibility of using year-round surfaces.
Refocuses policy around versatility of design
Program PROS-1.7A: Field Improvements. Evaluate local
athletic fields as part of a Parks Master Plan. Develop
design and capital facility recommendations for fields based
on the findings.
Policy PROS-14: Amateur Multi-sport Athletic Fields
Strive for the development of publicly or privately
funded, large multi-sport athletic field clusters to address
the needs of the community.
Program 14a: Athletic Fields. Explore opportunities to
construct multi-sport athletic fields in San Rafael.
Policy PROS-1.8: Linear Parks and Trails
Encourage linear parks and trails along the Bay shoreline,
the San Rafael Canal, local creeks, and transportation
corridors such as the SMART right-of-way. Where feasible,
spur trails should connect linear parks to nearby
neighborhoods.
New
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Program PROS-1.8A: Trails Master Plan. Pursue grant
funding for a Trails Master Plan, including provisions to
improve access and signage to park and open space areas
from San Rafael neighborhoods. The Plan should
incorporate the “greenway” improvements from the Bicycle
and Pedestrian Master Plan, as well as plans for the Bay
Trail, Canal walkway, North San Rafael promenade, and
“water” trails for kayaks in San Francisco Bay.
New
Policy PROS-1.9: Role of Open Space
Recognize San Rafael’s open space network as an essential
component of the park system, including its potential to
provide for hiking, picnicking, wildlife observation,
environmental education, and enjoyment of nature. Passive
recreational activities such as hiking and picnicking, should
be encouraged in these areas where consistent with habitat
protection and hazard reduction goals.
New
Program PROS-1.9A: Coordination with Open Space
Managers. Work with the County of Marin/ Marin Open
Space District and the State of California to encourage local
use of their parks and open space areas within San Rafael.
As needed, meet with County and State Park service
providers to discuss issues of mutual interest, review plans
and programs, and consider opportunities for joint projects
and better connections between City, County, and State
parks.
Policy PR-22: Relationship to Other Public Agencies
Cooperate with Marin County and the State to coordinate
the use and management of facilities and programs on
City, County and State park lands.
Program PR-22a: Cooperative Ventures. Maximize
opportunities to expand recreational facilities and
increase recreational programming through cooperative
ventures with the State and County.
Policy PROS 1.10: Historic Preservation and Parks
Incorporate important historic and cultural resources into the
City park system, including historic homes and the grounds
around them. The use of such spaces for cultural and
recreational programming is strongly encouraged.
New
Policy PROS 1.11: Urban Parks and Plazas
Encourage the creation of small gathering places open to the
public in Downtown San Rafael and other business districts,
including plazas, green spaces, activated alleys, and similar
features.
Policy PR-15: Downtown Recreation
Encourage the creation of recreational facilities and
gathering places open to the public, such as plazas, green
spaces, and unexpected places such as the alley
improvements behind Art Works Downtown.
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Program PROS 1.11A: Design for All Users. Engage
social service providers, including organizations serving
unsheltered residents and persons with disabilities, in the
design and management of urban parks to safely
accommodate all users, provide universal access, and
minimize conflicts in the use of such spaces.
New
Policy PROS 1.12: Joint Use
Encourage formal agreements with the School Districts that
allow for the joint development, maintenance and use of
school facilities for recreational use when schools is not in
session. Agreements should also address access to school
parking lots for sporting events and other measures to
minimize the impacts of joint use on nearby neighborhoods.
Policy PR-21: City-School Cooperation
Memorialize cooperation efforts between the City and
school districts for the joint development, maintenance,
and use of school facilities for educational programs,
park development, and recreational use.
Program PROS-1.12A: Joint Use Agreements. Work with
SRCS and MCSD to formalize joint use agreements for
parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and other school facilities.
New
Policy PROS 1.13: Recreational Facilities in
Development Projects
Encourage the construction of on-site recreational facilities
in multi-family, mixed use, and office projects to supplement
the facilities available in City parks.
Policy PR-10 Onsite Recreation Facilities
Require onsite recreation facilities in new multifamily
residential projects and encourage construction of onsite
recreation facilities in existing multifamily residential
projects, where appropriate.
Program PROS-1.13A: Onsite Recreation Facilities.
Continue to implement zoning regulations that require
appropriate recreational facilities in new development.
Program PR-10a: Onsite Recreation Facilities. Continue
to implement zoning regulations to require appropriate
recreational facilities.
Program PROS-1.13B: Rooftop Open Space. Encourage
the development of rooftop open space in higher density
residential, mixed use, and commercial projects. Such
spaces should be designed to minimize the potential for
noise, privacy, and light impacts on nearby properties.
New
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Policy PROS 1.14: Commercial Recreation
Encourage private sector development of recreational
facilities to serve community needs, such as commercial
recreation and athletic field facilities, swim clubs, tennis
clubs, marinas, and gyms and health clubs.
Policy PR-13: Commercial Recreation
Encourage private sector development of commercial
recreational facilities to serve community needs by:
a. Permitting compatible commercial concessions at
community and regional parks to provide sources of
funding for public parks.
b. Encouraging major employers to provide for the
recreational needs of their employees on site or in
conjunction with City recreation facilities or
programs.
c. Encouraging commercial recreational facilities open
to the general public.
Program PROS-1.14A: Commercial Recreation. Consider
amending the zoning ordinance to allow a floor area ratio
exemption for on-site recreational facilities open to the
public.
Program PR-13a: Commercial Recreation. Consider
amending the zoning ordinance to allow a floor area
ratio exemption for on-site recreational facilities open to
the public.
Policy PROS-1.15: Park Maintenance
Provide a high level of maintenance that allows San Rafael’s
parks to fully meet recreational needs and serve as valued
community assets.
Policy PR-19: Park Maintenance
Maintain public recreation facilities and parks.
Program PROS-1.15A: Cost Considerations in New
Projects. Consider maintenance and long-term operating
costs when developing any new facility or modernizing an
existing facility. Sustainable funding mechanisms for
maintenance should be identified for every capital project.
New
Program PROS-1.15B: Park Stewardship. Consider
“adopt a park” programs and other stewardship initiatives
that engage volunteers in park clean-up and maintenance.
New
Policy PROS 1.16: Funding
Pursue diverse funding sources for park improvement and
maintenance.
Policy PR-23: Funding
Establish and maintain a public and private funding
program for park and recreation facilities development
and maintenance.
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Program PROS-1.16A: Park Funding Strategy. Seek new
and ongoing sources of funds for park development and
maintenance, including grants, foundations, bonds, taxes and
assessment districts, impact fees, contributions from
“Friends” organizations, renewal of Measure A, private
donations and land dedications, public/private joint ventures,
the Capital Improvement Program, and all other available
means.
Program PR-23a: Funding. Seek new and ongoing
sources of funds for park development and maintenance.
Pursue private donation and dedications, Federal, State
and other grant sources, use of assessment districts,
public/private joint ventures and all other available
means to implement park and recreation policies. Sources
of funding include user fees, the Capital Improvements
program, Friends of San Rafael for specific parks, private
foundations, and the Parkland Dedication Ordinance.
Encourage the dedication of land for parks, as well as
monetary contributions and gifts-in-kind for facilities and
programs. Consider naming park facilities in exchange
for significant donations to an ongoing maintenance fund.
Program PROS-1.16B: Partnerships. Encourage
partnerships with neighborhood organizations and residents
in projects to improve existing parks.
Policy PR-1.8: Neighborhood Park Improvements.
Prepare plans, seek funding and improve neighborhood
park facilities. Encourage partnerships with neighborhood
organizations and residents in projects to improve
existing parks.
Second sentence of existing policy pulled out and
made its own.
Program PROS-1.16C: Naming Rights and Gifts in Place.
Explore opportunities to generate revenue through naming
rights, sponsorships, and gifts-in-place.
Previously part of PR-23a
Program PROS-1.6D: Sale, Lease, or Contractual
Agreements. In the event City-owned park or open space
land is sold or leased in the future, require that the proceeds
are appropriately used to support park improvements,
maintenance, or operating costs.
Policy PR-26: Sale, Lease or Contractual Agreements
Provide that funds from the sale of City parks or open
space shall be used for park or open space acquisition or
improvements. Provide that funds from the lease of, or
through contractual agreements involving, City parks or
open space shall be used for capital improvements, or
operation and maintenance costs.
Program PR-26a: Use of Funds from Sale of City Parks
or Open Space. With the sale of parks or open space,
ensure that the funds are used appropriately for park or
open space acquisition or improvements, or that lease
revenue is used for improvements, operations or
maintenance.
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Policy PROS-1.17 Sustainable Park Operations
Encourage sustainable park management and operations that
enhances the role of parks as green infrastructure and part of
the City’s climate resilience strategy.
New
Program PROS-1.17A: Sustainable Design. Incorporate
sustainability principles such as reduced water and energy,
use of recycled and non-toxic materials, stormwater capture,
and carbon sequestration, in the design of park facilities and
grounds. Parks should also support the City’s wildfire
prevention and sea level rise adaptation strategies, and be
designed to maximize their accessibility by pedestrians,
bicyclists, and transit users.
New
Program PROS-1.17B: Climate Adaptation. Address
potential design changes to local parks in the City’s sea level
rise and climate adaptation strategies.
New
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GOAL PROS-2: EXCELLENCE IN RECREATION
PROGRAMMING
Provide accessible, affordable recreational programming that
is responsive to public needs and promotes fitness, health,
knowledge, cultural understanding, and personal growth.
New Goal
Policy PROS-2.1: Meeting Diverse Needs. Ensure that
recreational programs and facilities meet the needs of all San
Rafael residents, particularly young children, youth, and
older adults.
Policy PR-4: City Recreational Needs
Provide opportunities for recreational activities for boys
and girls, teens, and adults through the creation of
additional facilities such as fields for active sports, a
public pool south of Puerto Suello Hill, and a community
Senior Center.
Program PROS-2.1A: Age-Specific Programs. Provide
facilities and programs that are specifically designed to meet
the needs of children, teens, and older adults, as well as
those designed for intergenerational participants.
New
Program PROS-2.1B: Cultural Competency. Provide
culturally competent programming that reflects the diversity
of San Rafael’s population.
New
Policy PROS-2.2: Responding to Changing Community
Needs. Continually adapt recreational programs to meet
changing community needs and interests.
Policy PR-27: Recreational Programs for Changing
Community Needs
Continually adapt recreational programs to meet
changing community needs and interests.
Program PROS-2.2A: Recreational Programs. Monitor and
evaluate participation in the City’s recreational programs
and use this information when developing new programs.
Program PR-27a: Recreational Programs. As part of
seasonal program planning, monitor, evaluate and
develop appropriate recreational programs for the
community.
Program PROS-2.2B: Surveys. Conduct periodic surveys in
English and Spanish to evaluate recreational needs in
neighborhoods and the City as a whole.
Policy PR-5: Review of Needs
Conduct a review of San Rafael’s recreational, facility
and program needs, as part of the five-year update of
General Plan 2020, and amend policies as needed.
Program PR-5a: Needs Survey. Prepare an updated
citywide recreation needs survey to help provide direction
for future park and program development.
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Policy PROS-2.3: Coordinated Programming
Work with local public schools, the County of Marin, sports
leagues and athletic associations, community service
organizations, and other agencies to provide complementary
and mutually supportive programming. Joint ventures with
other service providers should be encouraged where
appropriate.
New
Program PROS-2.3A: Summer Programs. Provide
increased programming during periods when children are
out of school, including summer youth programs at locations
convenient to each neighborhood.
Policy PR-28. Summer Recreation Programs
Provide summer recreation programs at locations
convenient to each neighborhood.
Program PR-28a: Summer Programs. Offer summer
youth recreational programs at the Community Centers
and other appropriate venues.
Policy PROS-2.4: Social Services
Continue to provide child care and social services for older
adults through the City’s parks, schools, and community
centers.
New
Program PROS-2.4A: Operating Hours. Maintain
operating hours that meet public needs and accommodate
activities such as child care and after school care.
New
Policy PROS-2.5: Recreation and Health
Provide programs and activities that contribute to physical
and mental health, personal growth, and the leisure time
needs of San Rafael residents.
New
Policy PROS-2.6: Local Partners
Engage local artists, athletes, craftspeople, health and fitness
workers, creative professionals, and others in the delivery of
recreational classes and programs.
New
Proposed 2040 General Plan Parks and Recreation Policies Compared to Existing 2020 Policies * December 9, 2019 Page 16
Proposed 2040 Plan Origin of statement (2020 Plan, etc.) Comments
ATTACHMENT 2: PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT: Proposed 2040 Policies Compared to 2020 Policies
Program PROS-2.6A: User Fees. Recover a portion of
recreational program costs through user fees, facility rentals,
and other direct charges for public use. Provisions for
reduced fees for low income and special needs patrons
should be included.
New
Policy PROS-2.7: Community Events
Encourage special events, festivals, street fairs, and
community programs that build civic unity and bring
residents of different backgrounds together.
New, tie to Arts and Culture Element
Policy PROS-2.8: Community Gardens
Continue to support and maintain community gardens and
look for ways to sustain such gardens as food sources.
Policy PR-16: Community Gardens
Continue to support and maintain community gardens and
look for ways to sustain the gardens.
Policy PROS-2.9: Environmental Education
Pursue opportunities for environmental education in the
parks, including classes and programs, interpretive trails and
boardwalks, and plaques and markers that raise awareness of
nature and climate change.
Tie to Conservation Element
Policy PROS-2.10: Community Centers
Recognize the role of parks and community centers in
supporting community resilience and emergency
preparedness.
New
Program PROS-2.10A: Back-Up Power. Maintain back-up
power sources at the City’s community centers so they
remain operational during power outages. Community
centers should serve as community gathering places in the
event of an emergency or disaster.
New
Item 6
MEMORANDUM
Date: March 12, 2020
To: Park and Recreation Commission
From: Susan Andrade-Wax, Library & Recreation Director
Subject: Schedule of Upcoming Meetings and Events of Interest
Date Time Meeting/Event Location
March 7 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Annual Pollinator Plant Sale Falkirk Cultural Center
March 11 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. 2040 General Plan Steering
Committee
BioMarin Conference Room,
750 Lindaro Street, San Rafael
March 12 6:00 p.m. Park and Recreation
Commission
San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street,
San Rafael
March 13 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. 2nd Friday Art Walk Downtown San Rafael & Falkirk Cultural Center
March 16 7:00 p.m. City Council City Council Chamber, 1400 Fifth Avenue, San
Rafael
April 6 7:00 p.m. City Council City Council Chamber, 1400 Fifth Avenue, San
Rafael
Feb. 12 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. 2040 General Plan Steering
Committee
BioMarin Conference Room, 750 Lindaro Street,
San Rafael
April 20 7:00 p.m. City Council City Council Chamber, 1400 Fifth Avenue, San
Rafael
April 26 Marin County Marathon Point San Pedro Road from Riviera Drive to
Biscayne Drive www.marinmarathon.org
April 30 –
May 2 Doclands Film Festival Rafael Theater
www.doclands.com
