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Home My WebLink AboutCD General Plan____________________________________________________________________________________ FOR CITY CLERK ONLY Council Meeting: October 3, 2022 Disposition: Accepted report Agenda Item No: 4.e Meeting Date: October 3, 2022 SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT Departments: Cross-Departmental Prepared by: Alicia Giudice Director of Community Development Monica Ly Senior Planner City Manager Approval: ______________ TOPIC: GENERAL PLAN SUBJECT: GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT (GPAPR) FOR 2021 RECOMMENDATION: Accept the General Plan Annual Progress Report for 2021. BACKGROUND: California Government Code Section 65400 requires that after the legislative body (City Council) has adopted all or part of a General Plan, the planning agency shall review an annual report on the status of the General Plan progress and its implementation and provide the report to the legislative body. The GPAPR is then submitted to the California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) each year. The Government Code also includes specific requirements for information about the status of Housing Element programs and progress in meeting its share of the Regional Housing Need Allocations (RHNA) issued by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). The Housing Element APR was accepted by the City Council on March 21, 2022 and submitted to the two state Agencies shortly after that. This report focuses on the progress of the General Plan. ANALYSIS: All cities in California are required to prepare and adopt a General Plan. The General Plan identifies policies and programs addressing the development and redevelopment of land, preservation of parks and open spaces, provision of housing for current and future residents, conservation of natural resources, improvement of the circulation and transportation system, control of noise and protection of life and property from hazards. The purpose of the GPAPR is to provide local legislative bodies and the public with information regarding the implementation of the General Plan and to inform the public of the progress in meeting the community’s goals. An annual progress report on the General Plan must be presented to the City Council SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2 for its review and acceptance. The GPAPR should provide enough information for decision-makers to assess how the General Plan was implemented during the 12-month reporting period. The attached GPAPR (see Attachment 1) comprises the General Plan goals and provides a summary of the status of the General Plan and the implementation programs contained in each General Plan Element. San Rafael has adopted eight State-required Elements and five optional Elements as follows: Land Use Element; Neighborhoods Element; Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element; Safety and Resilience Element; Noise Element; Mobility Element; Community Services and Infrastructure Element; Arts and Culture Element; Economic Vitality Element; Equity Diversity and Inclusion Element; and Housing Element. The annual progress report on the Housing Element was presented to the City Council on March 21, 2022 and submitted to the state on March 29, 2022. Thus, this report is focused only the status of the remaining General Plan elements. Highlights of accomplishments in the implementation of General Plan programs in 2021 are included below with the corresponding references to the General Plan Element Implementation Program: • Adopted General Plan 2040 On August 2, 2021, the San Rafael City Council adopted General Plan 2040 and the Downtown Precise Plan. First initiated in 2017, the update of the San Rafael General Plan 2020 was necessary to respond to new issues, priorities, forecasts, state laws, and to incorporate recent City plans and programs. All elements of the Plan have been comprehensively updated. An extensive community engagement program, including a 24-member Steering Committee, accompanied this effort. • 2023-2031 Housing Element Update In 2021, the City began preparation of the 2023-2031 Housing Element Update, launching a community kick-off meeting in early November. The City created a 13-member Working Group to provide feedback on new housing policies and programs for the city. The City engaged in outreach to lower-income households, especially renters. Staff solicited input from housing advocates, tenant groups, the development, real estate, and business communities, neighborhood groups, environmental groups, and social service providers, including organizations serving unhoused residents. • Parks and Recreation Master Plan In 2021, the City began preparation of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The Library & Recreation and Public Works Departments began planning for a series of community meetings, focus groups, and surveys to gather input from the public about how to improve San Rafael parks, recreational facilities and programs as part of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process. The departments also made plans to hold an outreach event and conduct a survey to gather feedback from the Sun Valley neighborhood on planned improvements to the Sun Valley Park. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan was scheduled to begin in 2022 and to be completed in early 2023. Programs: PROS 1.4B (Community Engagement), PROS-1.6A (Needs Assessment), PROS- 1.6B (Park Improvements), and PROS-1.11A (Field Improvements). • Adopted Downtown Precise Plan The Downtown Precise Plan and Form-Based Code was adopted on August 2, 2021. During the early phases of the Draft General Plan 2040 update process, the City of San Rafael pursued and secured grant funding to prepare a more detailed plan for the Downtown area. The community engagement process in the Draft Plan preparation included a series of community workshops, a three-day charrette, and vetting of the Draft Plan components by the 24-member General Plan 2040 Steering Committee and a smaller working group of this Committee. Program: CDP-2.2A (Downtown Precise Plan). • Adopted Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) Guidelines SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3 The City adopted new guidelines for the preparation of Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) Guidelines in compliance with Senate Bill 743 (SB743), which requires the replacement of the Level of Service (LOS) methodology with the Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) methodology for environmental review. Additionally, the City adopted VMT standards in the 2040 General Plan update. Program M-2.5A (Traffic Circulation Studies). • Traffic Mitigation Fee Update The Traffic Impact Fee was updated by the City Council adoption of Resolution No. 14983 on October 4, 2021. The update was based on a nexus study conducted by Fehr and Peers Consultants. The nexus report justified the increase of the trip rate to $6,909. The City Council directed that this fee be implemented gradually over a five-year period starting in January 2022 and provided for an annual adjustment of the fee according to the Lee Saylor Construction Cost Index. Program M-2.6A (Traffic Mitigation Fee Updates). • Supported the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) In 2021, the City continued to support the Downtown BID through attention to streetscape, marketing and promotions, special events, and advocating on issues of safety, public parking and other factors affecting the economic vitality of the downtown district. Program NH-1.1B (Quality Downtown Services). The City worked with downtown businesses (including Art Works and art supply stores), the Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Business Improvement District to provide Día de los Muertos altars in downtown windows in October. Staff cross promoted events with the Downtown BID. Program AC-1.2D (Public Information). Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress The City of San Rafael completed a 2021 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and submitted it to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) on March 29, 2022, in accordance with state housing law. This report provides information on the progress of our housing element programs and reports on the progress toward meeting the City’s share of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress. The City reported that 12 housing units were entitled and building permits were issued for 66 units during the 2021 reporting period. For more information, please refer to the earlier staff report presented to the City Council on March 21, 2022. FISCAL IMPACT: This is an informational report, there are no fiscal impacts at this time. OPTIONS: The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter: 1. Receive and accept the report (recommended). 2. Direct staff to return with more information. 3. Take no action. RECOMMENDED ACTION: Staff recommends that City Council accept the General Plan Annual Progress Report for 2021. ATTACHMENTS: 1. General Plan Annual Progress Report 2021 1 OCTOBER 3, 2022 SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT 2021 2 Introduction Government Code Section 65400 requires that after the legislative body (City Council) has adopted all or part of a General Plan, the City prepare a General Plan Annual Progress Report (APR) regarding the status of the City’s General Plan and progress in its implementation and submit the General Plan APR to the Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The GPAPR provides for the annual review of the General Plan to assess the level of implementation and effectiveness of the General Plan as a guide for orderly growth and development, preservation and conservation of open space land and natural resources, and the efficient expenditure of public funds. The GP APR also provides information regarding the City’s progress in meeting its share of regional housing needs. The General Plan provides a shared vision for San Rafael’s future, and a road map to make that vision a reality. It is rooted in a commitment by San Rafael residents and businesses to sustain the qualities that make San Rafael a great city today, and to pursue improvements that make the city more resilient, equitable, healthy, and attractive in the future. The Plan looks ahead 20 years to contemplate what kind of community we want to be. It provides the policies and actions to lead us there. General Plan 2040 was adopted on August 2, 2021. San Rafael has adopted eight State-required Elements and five optional Elements as follows: Land Use Element; Neighborhoods Element; Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element; Safety and Resilience Element; Noise Element; Mobility Element; Community Services and Infrastructure Element; Arts and Culture Element; Economic Vitality Element; Equity Diversity and Inclusion Element; and Housing Element. The General Plan will be implemented collectively by the City Council, City Boards and Commissions, City staff, San Rafael residents, and local business owners. Decisions by the City Council and its representatives must be consistent with its goals and policies. Implementation takes place in many ways, including local zoning regulations, future plans and studies, municipal code changes, partnerships, budgets, capital improvement programming, annual work programs, and standard operating procedures, among others. Some of the programs listed in the General Plan are already in effect, but the Plan also proposes new programs and cha nges to existing programs. Because of resource limitations, some of these changes may take place sooner than others. 3 Table of Contents General Plan Annual Progress Report City Council Acceptance ..................................... 4 General Plan 2040 Update .............................................................................................. 5 General Plan Implementation Measures ....................................................................... 6 Housing Element APR 2021 ............................................................................................. 7 Implementation Matrix .......................................................................................... 8 - 188 4 General Plan Annual Progress Report City Council Acceptance On October 3, 2022, the San Rafael City Council, by minute order, received and accepted the General Plan Annual Progress Report 2021. A copy of the Resolution is available from the City Clerk, at City Hall, 1400 Fifth Avenue, or at 415-485-3066. The resolution is also available online through the City of San Rafael’s Public Records Portal. 5 General Plan 2040 Update On August 2, 2021, the San Rafael City Council adopted General Plan 2040 and the Downtown Precise Plan. First initiated in 2017, the update of the San Rafael General Plan 2020 was necessary to respond to new issues, priorities, forecasts, state laws, and to incorporate recent City plans and programs. All elements of the Plan have been comprehensively updated. An extensive community engagement program, including a 24-member Steering Committee, accompanied this effort. As part of the General Plan Update, the City prepared a more focused plan for Downtown San Rafael. The “Downtown Precise Plan” replaces the 1993 Downtown Vision Plan and includes strategies to accommodate future Downtown housing and employment and to strengthen Downtown San Rafael as a vital, attractive business district and neighborhood. The Precise Plan was funded by a grant from the Association of Bay Area Governments and reflects Downtown’s designation as a “Priority Development Area.” The Plan includes specific planning and design recommendations, as well as strategies for historic preservation, economic development, transportation, affordable housing production, and anti -displacement. It also includes a “Form Based Code” that replaced existing zoning regulations. 6 Implementation Measures The Implementation Matrix provides a strategic framework for implementing General Plan 2040. Future Annual Progress Reports will use the indicators included in the implementation matrix as a starting point to describe progress toward specific implementation milestones. The Plan identifies hundreds of programs to implement local policies and achieve the City’s goals. Most are ongoing measures to be implemented through the operating procedures of City departments. Some are specific activities to be implemented in the years after Plan adoption, including additional plans, studies, ordinances, and capital improvement projects. Many of the programs provide guidance for development review, service delivery, budgeting, public participation a nd communication, and administration of community development functions. The Matrix is organized by Plan Element. It includes 12 individual tables, covering all chapters of the Plan except Housing, which has its own Action Plan. Each Implementation Matrix begins with a list of performance measures or indicators that may be used to monitor implementation progress or provide a benchmark for planning and development review. In some cases, an actual numeric standard is provided (repeating a standard express ed in the text). In other cases, potential future metrics are suggested but no specific targets are provided. The City may develop numeric targets for these criteria in the future, as data, technology, and resources allow. 7 Housing Element APR 2021 The City of San Rafael submitted a 2021 Housing Element Annual Progress Report on March 29, 2022, to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the Office of Planning and Research (OPR), in accordance with state housing law. The Ho using Element APR is included as an attachment to this General Plan APR. 8 Implementation Matrix LAND USE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Land Use Element in attainment of San Rafael’s land use goals: • Goal LU-1: Well-Managed Growth and Change • Goal LU-2: A Complete Community • Goal LU-3: Distinctive Neighborhoods PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program LU- 1.1A General Plan Evaluations. Complete an evaluation of the General Plan at least once every five years. As part of this process, assess San Rafael’s growth data and trends, population and employment forecasts, and progress toward meeting its housing, mobility, sustainability, and other goals. Recommend changes to policies, and adjustments to fees and capital improvement projects based on the findings. All Departments No Action The next General Plan Evaluation is due in the year 2026. In 2025, City staff will form a subcommittee consisting of representatives from the various departments to review the City’s growth data and trends and make recommendations for policy changes as necessary. Program LU- 1.2A Development Review. Implement Policy LU-1.2 through the development review and environmental review processes. The City may modify the requirements associated with this policy if it determines that its application as stated would preclude all economically viable use of a subject property. See also Mobility Element Programs M-2.5B and M-3.2D for LOS and VMT exceptions CDD Ongoing Program LU- 1.3A Benefits of Transit-Oriented Development. Seek ways to objectively quantify and monitor the benefits of focusing new development around CDD, PW Ongoing Ongoing pre-entitlement, post-occupation data not yet collected. 9 transit nodes and corridors and shifting trips from cars to active (non -car) transportation modes. Programmatic changes and recommendations should be supportable by objective data and quality of life measures. This should include data on modes of travel, trip origins and destinations, trip lengths, vehicle ownership, traffic congestion and duration of idling traffic, greenhouse gas emissions, and other metrics in areas that are well served by transit. Program LU- 1.4A Reasonable Interim Uses. Ensure that zoning regulations include provisions for reasonable interim uses for properties where the highest and best use allowed by zoning is not presently attainable due to traffic capacity, infrastructure, natural hazards (including sea level rise), and other factors. Examples of reasonable interim uses include contractor’s yards, modular or mobile uses, new car storage, parking, and outdoor recreation. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 1.6A LAFCO. Encourage LAFCO to adopt Urban Service Area and annexation policies for the San Rafael Planning Area that are consistent with General Plan policies. CDD No Action Program LU- 1.7A Development Adjacent to San Rafael. Work with the County, other jurisdictions, neighborhood groups, and residents to review applications for development in areas adjacent to San Rafael’s city limits or within the Sphere of Influence. CDD, PW, FIRE Ongoing County includes Fire in the review process for projects in CSA 19 & adjoining areas. Program LU- 1.8A Codifying Residential Density Limits. Implement General Plan densities by setting allowable lot sizes and densities in the zoning ordinance and by including height limits and an area-wide dwelling unit “cap” in the Downtown Precise Plan (see text box). CDD Ongoing 10 Program LU- 1.8B Minimum Densities. The net density of new development shall be no less than the lower end of the density range specified by the General Plan for that property. CDD Ongoing Ongoing part of development review. Program LU- 1.8C Small Multi-Family Lots. Amend Section 14.16.300 of the Zoning Regulations to allow more than one housing unit per lot on lots that are smaller than 5,000 square feet, provided the density is consistent with the General Plan (these lots are currently limited to one unit each, unless located Downtown). CDD, City Attorney No Action Program LU- 1.10A Codifying General Plan Floor Area Ratio Limits. Implement General Plan floor area ratio (FAR) limits by setting appropriate FAR limits in the zoning ordinance. CDD No Action Program LU- 1.12A Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Program. Evaluate opportunities for TDR as a response to issues such as sea level rise, historic preservation, and wildfire hazards. This evaluation also should address how TDRs are conveyed and recorded. CM (Sustainability), CDD No Action Program LU1.15A Planned Development Zoning. Continue to maintain Planned Development (PD) zoning districts. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 1.16A Zoning for School Sites. Continue to implement school site reuse and redevelopment through zoning regulations and the development review process. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 2.1A Zoning Ordinance Amendments. Revise the zoning ordinance, including the zoning map, to implement General Plan land use designations and policies, incorporate provisions from other recently adopted City plans and programs, and CDD, City Attorney, CM (Sustainability) Ongoing. 11 ensure that all provisions are consistent with state law. This should include creation of a new overlay district corresponding to areas expected to be affected by sea level rise (see Program S-3.1C). Program LU- 2.1B Subdivision Ordinance Amendments. Revise the subdivision ordinance where necessary for conformance with General Plan land use designations and policies. Provisions for the enforcement of conditions of subdivision map approval should be included in the Ordinance. See also Program LU-2.4A on Industrial Zoning standards CDD, City Attorney, PW No Action Program LU- 2.2A Development Review. Use the development review process to evaluate the compatibility of residential uses in commercial areas. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 2.2B Innovation Districts. Evaluate creation of an overlay zone or “innovation” district (see text box) to be applied to a limited number of Light Industrial-Office (LI -O) properties located near Downtown (including the existing Lindaro Mixed Use District) and/or Northgate Industrial Park, In addition to allowing a wide range of employment uses, multi-family residential and live-work uses could also be allowed in these areas, subject to performance standards, use permit requirements, and a finding that there will be no net loss of industrial floor space. The area covered by such a zone would be strictly limited in order to preserve the supply of land needed for local and region-serving businesses, minimize potential conflicts between adjacent uses, and avoid impediments to established businesses. CDD No Action 12 Program LU- 2.3A Neighborhood Centers. Use the development review process to evaluate future proposals for existing neighborhood commercial centers, including the addition of new uses such as housing. Neighbors should be involved early in the development review process. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 2.3B Revitalization Incentives. Develop zoning and economic development incentives that keep local neighborhood centers viable, such as allowing additional floor area and housing units when neighborhood-serving uses are included or retained. See the Neighborhoods Element for policies related to specific centers. See the Economic Vitality Element for policies on retail retention and incentives. CDD, ED, No Action Program LU- 2.4A Industrial Zoning. Periodically evaluate zoning standards for Light Industrial-Office and General Industrial areas in response to business and economic trends, market demand, changes in technology and the transportation sector, greenhouse gas reduction goals, and climate- related hazards such as sea level rise. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 2.5A Industrial Zoning Standards for Ancillary Retail and Service Uses. Continue to provide opportunities for small local-serving retail and service businesses in industrial zoning districts. CDD No Action Program LU- 2.6A Lot Consolidation Incentives. Continue to encourage small lot consolidation through zoning regulations. Incentives such as height and floor area bonuses and reduced parking should be considered, provided they do not result in the loss of unique or historic buildings. CDD Ongoing 13 Program LU- 2.7A Large and Small Family Child Care Regulations. Ensure that regulations for large and small family child care facilities comply with all applicable State laws. To the extent permitted by law, the siting and operation of larger facilities in single family neighborhoods should mitigate the potential for off-site impacts (parking, noise, etc.). CDD Ongoing Pre -empted by State Law. Program LU- 2.7B Fees for Child Care Programs. Where feasible, consider waiving application, permit, and traffic mitigation impact fees for child care uses. See also Policy LU-1.13 on FAR exemptions for child care. See Policy PROS-2.4 and Policy EDI- 5.1 for additional guidance on child care. Finance Progress The City has included certain existing motels as housing opportunity sites in its draft 2023-2031 Housing Element. Program LU- 2.9A Motel Conversions. In cases where an existing motel is no longer viable for that purpose, encourage conversion to multi-family residential use, including affordable housing. CDD (Housing) No Action Program LU- 2.10A Monitoring Program. Monitor the effectiveness of short-term rental regulations on issues such as parking, rental housing supply, and neighborhood compatibility. Refine these regulations as needed to address issues and concerns. CDD (Code Enforcement), City Attorney Ongoing Program LU- 2.12A Live-Work Regulations. Revise zoning regulations for live/work uses to make this a more viable housing type and facilitate its development. CDD No Action Program LU- 2.12 Alternative Housing Types. Explore regulatory and cost barriers and potential opportunities for innovative housing types such as co-housing, tiny homes, micro units, modular and movable construction, mobile homes, and other forms of habitation which may be easier and less expensiv e to build than traditional housing. CDD No Action 14 Consider zoning and building code changes to support the conversion of existing underutilized buildings to these uses in commercial and mixed use areas. This should include changes that facilitate the conversion of underutilized office buildings or vacant retail buildings to residential use. Program LU- 2.12C Floating Homes. Consider changes to the Municipal Code, including zoning regulations, that support houseboats, live-aboards, and other types of floating homes in areas designated as “Water” on the General Plan Map. CDD, City Attorney No Action Program LU- 2.12D Accessory Dwelling Units. Continue to support the conversion of underutilized residential space into accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs), as well as the development of new ADUs and JADUs in residential areas, except where access difficulties for fire and emergency vehicles pose risks to public health and safety. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 2.13A Evaluation of Odor Impacts. Evaluate odor impacts as part of development review. CDD Progress Included as a new performance standard for Animal Care Facilities. Program LU- 3.1A Area Planning Process. Engage neighborhood associations, community groups, residents, businesses, and service providers in the development of area plans, including neighborhood plans. A priority should be placed on plans for the North San Rafael “Town Center” area and the Canal neighborhood. In the event funding for these plans is delayed, projects that would increase housing supply in these areas should be allowed to proceed, with community engagement as described above. See the Neighborhoods Element for additional policies and programs relating to area plans CDD Progress 15 Program LU- 3.2A Zoning Ordinance. Periodically update the zoning ordinance to address neighborhood issues and concerns. CDD, City Attorney No Action Program LU- 3.4A Code Enforcement. Maintain an effective Code Enforcement program that engages with neighborhoods and business groups and works in partnerships with appropriate City staff to address nuisances, mitigate problems with vacant and blighted properties, and correct zoning code violations. CDD (Code Enforcement) Ongoing Program LU- 3.4B Conditions of Approval. Use the development review process to establish conditions of approval, including maintenance of landscaping and other improvements. Use building inspection and code enforcement processes to ensure that these conditions and other mitigation or monitoring responsibilities are carried out. CDD, PW, FIRE, PD Ongoing. Multiple departments will continue to utilize the development review process to review projects and add conditions accordingly. City staff from multiple departments will continue to use inspections to ensure that the conditions of approval have been met. Fire will be using this process to identify staffing & equipment needs for pending large scale development. Program LU- 3.4C Community Appearance. Continue and enhance programs to abate illegal dumping and remove graffiti. See also Policy EDI-4.2 on maintenance of streets and public space and Policy EDI-3.5 on property maintenance PW, CM (Sustainability) Ongoing Program LU- 3.6A Parking Lot Design. Maintain design guidelines for parking lots that address landscaping, buffering, environmental quality, and neighborhood compatibility. Parking lots should not be the dominant visual feature from the street frontage. CDD Ongoing 16 Program LU- 3.7A Neighborhood Parking Measures. In neighborhoods with excessive on-street parking demand or where a proposed project would result in a substantial increase in demand: a) Work with property owners to add off- street parking and allow shared parking during off-peak hours. b) Where feasible, require additional off- street parking as a condition of approval for expansion or remodels. c) Update permit parking programs and on-street parking time limits to improve their effectiveness. CDD, PW Ongoing Program LU- 3.7B Parking Regulations. Periodically evaluate and amend parking regulations to respond to new technologies and trends in car ownership and design, while still ensuring adequate on-site parking. See Goal M-7 (Mobility Element) for additional policies and programs on parking, including amendments to parking standards. CDD, PW No Action Program LU- 3.8A Abandoned Vehicle Program. Continue the abandoned vehicle abatement program. PD, Parking Services Ongoing Program LU- 3.8B Vehicles as Residences. Continue the prohibition on the overnight residential use of vehicles in the public right of way. PD, Parking Services Ongoing Program LU- 3.9A Neighborhood Serving Uses. Prioritize neighborhood serving uses and places that support neighborhood interaction on small commercial sites in residential areas. Examples of such uses are cafes, grocery stores, hair salons, hardware stores, household goods and maintenance services, restaurants, drug stores, local medical and health care services, farmers CDD No Action 17 markets, child care facilities, public facilities, and similar activities that meet the day to day needs of local residents. Also encourage uses that facilitate remote work, such as postal and telecommunication services. Maintaining these uses near residents can potentially help reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and encourage walkable neighborhoods. Program LU- 3.9B Housing in Neighborhood Commercial Centers. In the event housing is proposed on neighborhood commercial sites, encourage the integration of neighborhood-oriented commercial or service uses on the ground floor or a portion of the site. CDD Ongoing Program LU- 3.11A Neighborhood Websites. Support the development of neighborhood websites and provide links to these sites on the City’s website. CDD Ongoing NEIGHBORHOODS ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Neighborhoods Element in attainment of San Rafael’s neighborhood policies: • Policy NH-1.1: A Thriving Downtown • Policy NH-2.19: Traffic Circulation • Policy NH-3.24: Canalways (see also text box, page 4-50) • Policy NH-1.2: Economic Success • Policy NH-2.20: Parking • Policy NH-3.25: Windward Way • Policy NH-1.3: Downtown Housing • Policy NH-2.21: Downtown Transition Areas • Policy NH-3.26: Shoreline Center • Policy NH-1.4: Preventing Displacement • Policy NH-2.22: Bret Harte Neighborhood • Policy NH-3.27: San Quentin Ridge • Policy NH-1.5: Downtown Employment • Policy NH-2.23: Gerstle Park • Policy NH-3.28: Adaptation • Policy NH-1.6: Public Realm • Policy NH-2.24: Natural Features • Policy NH-4.1: North San Rafael  • Policy NH-1.7: Context-Sensitive Design • Policy NH-2.25: Pedestrian Linkages and Landscaping • Policy NH-4.2: North San Rafael Town Center   • Policy NH-1.8: Historic Resources • Policy NH-3.1: Southeast San Rafael/Canal • Policy NH-4.3: Design Excellence   18 • Policy NH-1.9: Downtown Arts • Policy NH-3.2: San Rafael Canal • Policy NH-4.4:  Transportation Safety and Accessibility   • Policy NH-1.10: Downtown Circulation • Policy NH-3.3: Canal Maintenance • Policy NH-4.5: Eichler and Alliance Homes.   • Policy NH-1.11: Parking • Policy NH-3.4: Canal Waterfront Land Uses • Policy NH-4.6: Terra Linda Shopping Center   • Policy NH-1.12: Hazard Resilience • Policy NH-3.5: Waterfront Design • Policy NH-4.7: Terra Linda Community Improvements  • Policy NH-2.1: Miracle Mile Land Uses • Policy NH-3.6: Public Access • Policy NH-4.8: Community Beautification and Environmental Restoration  • Policy NH-2.2: West End Circulation • Policy NH-3.7: Recreational Boat Facilities • Policy NH-4.9: Neighborhood Character • Policy NH-2.3: Noise Abatement • Policy NH-3.8: Flood Control Improvements • Policy NH-4.10: Merrydale Area   • Policy NH-2.4: Development of Remaining Vacant Residential Lots • Policy NH-3.9: Near Southeast Land Uses • Policy NH-4.11: Northgate Business Park • Policy NH-2.5: Sun Valley Neighborhood • Policy NH-3.10: Highway 101 Frontage • Policy NH-4.12: Redwood Highway Improvements  • Policy NH-2.6: Neighborhood Sustainability • Policy NH-3.11: Lindaro Mixed Use • Policy NH-4.13: West of Los Gamos Drive   • Policy NH-2.7: Natural Features • Policy NH-3.12: Canal Housing Needs • Policy NH-4.14: Design Considerations for the Civic Center Vicinity  • Policy NH-2.8: Sun Valley Development • Policy NH-3.13: Canal Public Safety • Policy NH-4.15: Civic Center SMART Station   • Policy NH-2.9: Sun Valley Circulation • Policy NH-3.14: Public Facilities • Policy NH-4.16: Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Transit Connections  • Policy NH-2.10: Sun Valley Gathering Places • Policy NH-3.15: Parking and Transportation • Policy NH-4.17: San Rafael Airport   • Policy NH-2.11: Fairhills Neighborhood • Policy NH-3.16: Local Business Support • Policy NH-4.18: Habitat Enhancement • Policy NH-2.12: Lincoln/San Rafael Hill • Policy NH-3.17: Medway Commercial • Policy NH-5.1: San Pedro Peninsula  19 District • Policy NH-2.13: Lincoln Avenue Corridor • Policy NH-3.18: Education • Policy NH-5.2: Point San Pedro Road  • Policy NH-2.14: Dominican University • Policy NH-3.19: Libraries and Community Programs • Policy NH-5.3: Maintenance of Public Facilities and Infrastructure  • Policy NH-2.15: Dominican/Black Canyon Area Resources and Hazards • Policy NH-3.20: Neighborhood Appearance • Policy NH-5.4: Loch Lomond Marina  • Policy NH-2.16: Montecito Residential Densities • Policy NH-3.21: Spinnaker Point/Baypoint Lagoons • Policy NH-5.5: Loch Lomond Area and Canal North Shore Neighborhoods  • Policy NH-2.17: High School Campus Plans • Policy NH-3.22: Highway 101/I-580 Interchange • Policy NH-5.6: San Rafael Rock Quarry Operations  • Policy NH-2.18: Architecture • Policy NH-3.23: Marin Square/Gary Place • Policy NH-5.7: San Rafael Rock Quarry and McNear Brickyard Long-Term Plans  PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program NH- 1.1B Quality Downtown Services. Support the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID), the Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations in efforts to maintain the quality of Downtown as a great place to do business. Encourage investment in services and amenities that project a positive image of Downtown and make it a destination of choice within Marin County. CM, ED Ongoing The City continued to support the Downtown BID through attention to streetscape, marketing and promotions, special events and advocating on issues of safety, public parking and other factors affecting the economic vitality of the downtown district. Program NH- 1.1C Capital Improvements. Incorporate projects and programs identified in the Downtown Precise Plan into the City’s Capital Improvement Program and operating budget. Explore potential funding sources for capital projects, including grants that recognize the benefits of accommodating sustainable growth and responding to climate change. Maintain existing facilities, such as lighting and landscaping, so that Downtown remains an attractive place to visit. PW, Finance, ED Progress PW has applied for several grants for capital projects identified in the Downtown Precise Plan and is waiting on responses. The CIP has also set aside matching funds for these grants. In addition, PW has worked on replacing light fixtures to LED lights around the downtown. Updated the traffic impact fee to augment capital investment in transportation. 20 Program NH- 1.1D Downtown Public Safety. Continue public safety, maintenance, and social service initiatives that keep Downtown safe and address the needs of Downtown businesses, visitors, and residents of all incomes. PD Ongoing Program NH- 1.2A Adapting to Changes in Retail. Work with the owners and tenants of ground floor spaces, especially along Fourth Street, to respond to changes in the demand for retail space. Ensure that zoning and building regulations are flexible so that these spaces remain usable and can support active uses. See the Economic Vitality Element for economic development programs and Chapter 8 of the Downtown Precise Plan for additional implementation measures. ED, CDD No Action Program NH- 1.3A Development Incentives. Implement and expand incentives for the private sector to provide more affordable housing, community amenities and public space. These incentives should substantially increase the stock of units that are permanently affordable. CDD No Action Program NH- 1.4A Supportive Housing. Work with local social service and non-profit organizations to address the needs of unsheltered residents in Downtown, including the provision of additional permanent supportive housing. See the Downtown Precise Plan for Anti- displacement strategies, including measures to protect tenants. CM (Homelessness), CDD (Housing) Progress The City released a Notice of Funding Availability in 2021 and in early 2022 funded two projects through its Affordable Housing Trust Fund that together will provide 72 units of permanent supportive housing. The City of San Rafael partnered with Caltrans, the County of Marin, CHP, and multiple service organizations to provide enhanced services for individuals experiencing homelessness. This innovative partnership enabled the City to create a 21 designated “service support area”. This designated space provided security, restrooms, handwashing stations, garbage pick-up, regular outreach and service referrals, and other quality of life amenities. It also allowed for the continuing of work with local partners to identify permanent paths to housing. Program NH- 1.6A Court Street Plaza. Enhance the Court Street Plaza and adjacent area of 4th Street as a public gathering space. Implement pilot programs that reimagine this part of Fourth Street as a “shared street” that functions as civic space and accommodates multiple travel modes. L&R & PW No Action Program NH- 1.6B Transit Gateway Improvements. Create a new public space adjacent to the SMART station that would provide an amenity for Downtown residents, workers, visitors, and transit passengers. The space should create a welcoming “first impression” of Downtown. Provisions for ongoing programming, maintenance, and safety should be developed prior to construction. PW No Action Program NH- 1.6C Pocket Parks and Private Plazas. Use incentives such as additional building height to create accessible outdoor spaces such as plazas and paseos in new development. CDD No Action Program NH- 1.6D Downtown Alleys. Activate key Downtown alleys as public spaces. See Downtown Precise Plan Chapter 8 for a list of proposed public realm improvements CDD No Action Program NH- 1.7A Downtown Form Based Code. Adopt and maintain a Form Based Code that provides CDD Progress The Downtown Precise Plan and Form- Based Code was adopted August 2021 and 22 greater predictability in what will be built and emphasizes pedestrian-friendly design. Development standards should reinforce the unique character of Downtown while allowing its built form to evolve and improve. The Code should allow for a streamlined permitting and approval process, increased certainty for developers, and more predictable outcomes for the community as new projects are proposed. See the Community Design and Preservation Element for additional policies and programs on designing buildings to complement and enhance Downtown’s character and create a pedestrian- friendly environment. the Community Development Department implements the design recommendations and standards of the Downtown Precise Plan on an ongoing basis as new inquires and projects are received regarding projects in the Downtown Area. Program NH- 1.8A Context Sensitive Design. Implement Form Based Code provisions to ensure that new development adjacent to historic resources or within historic districts is sympathetic to the scale and character of older buildings. CDD Ongoing Ongoing as part of development review when not in conflict with SB 330 provisions. Program NH- 1.8B Historic Districts. Consider the use of historic districts to conserve the character of parts of Downtown with high concentrations of important older buildings. These districts should continue to accommodate infill development on vacant and underutilized sites, but should provide incentives for preservation and adaptive reuse, including tax benefits and transfer of development rights. CDD No Action Program NH- 1.8C Addressing Functional Obsolescence. Work with property owners to modernize functionally obsolete spaces in older buildings. Seek solutions which allow updating and alteration of interior spaces without losing the historic integrity of the building exterior. CDD No Action 23 Program NH- 1.8D Historic Inventory. Regularly update the inventory of historic and cultural resources in Downtown. See Community Design and Preservation Element Goal 5 for additional guidance CDD No Action Program NH- 1.10A Multi-Modal Improvements. Implement the improvements in the Downtown Precise Plan to improve the safety and comfort of all travel modes in Downtown, particularly pedestrians and bicycles. This includes additional bike routes and lanes; safer pedestrian crossings; wider sidewalks in some locations; street trees and landscaping; converting B Street to two-way traffic; and creating a “north/south greenway” for bicycles and pedestrians along the Tamalpais Avenue corridor. PW Progress The B Street conversion design is almost complete, and it is anticipated this will be constructed as a change order to the Third Street Rehabilitation project. Program NH-1.1 0B Evolving Mobility Needs. Design Downtown streets so that they can adapt to changing transportation trends such as ride-hailing and micro-mobility (electric bikes and scooters), changing parking demand, and changes in technology, including autonomous vehicles. Technology should also be used to make Downtown safer and easier to navigate for all users, for example, with the use of pedestrian- activated crossing signals, timed traffic signals, and digital information on parking. PW Progress The Third Street Rehabilitation project includes installation of a fiber backbone infrastructure downtown connecting to the PSC. In addition, the County received a federal grant to improve traffic signal safety on key intersections throughout the County. This project includes adding pedestrian push buttons at several downtown intersections. Program NH- 1.10C Wayfinding. Build upon ongoing efforts to implement a clear wayfinding strategy to orient transit passengers, motorists exiting Highway 101, and other visitors to Downtown. Use consistent signage and streetscape elements to enable visitors to navigate Downtown easily. PW 24 Program NH- 1.12A Sea Level Rise Adaptation. Develop a comprehensive set of sea level rise adaptation strategies for future development that draw from citywide and regional strategies. These strategies could include tidal gates, levee improvements, wetland restoration, and elevation requirements for new buildings. CM (Sustainability) Program NH- 2.1A Neighborhood Plan. In the event that significant changes to currently allowable land uses or densities are proposed in the future, develop a neighborhood/corridor plan for the Miracle Mile. CDD Program NH- 2.2A West End Circulation Improvements. Pursue the following circulation improvements in the West End Neighborhood: a) Reconfigure the traffic signal at Ross Valley Drive and Fourth Street to incorporate Santa Margarita Drive, thereby improving safety. b) Implement pedestrian/bicycle safety improvements across and along Second/Fourth Streets, including the crosswalks at the Marquard/West End intersection and the East Street intersection, and wider, safer sidewalks along both sides of Second Street between Marquard and Shaver Streets. c) Complete the Grove Hill Estates pedestrian path along the easement created in 1983 to connect Tamal Vista Drive to the Sun Valley neighborhood. PW Progress The city has started design of the 2nd & 4th street intersection and applied for OBAG 3 grant funding. We anticipate hearing about the grant early in 2023. Program NH- 2.3A Noise Improvements. Use the capital improvement program and development review process to consider noise abatement techniques for the Miracle Mile and adjacent thoroughfares, PW No Action 25 including the use of attractive fencing, trees and landscaping, and sound-absorbing pavement. Program NH- 2.5A Neighborhood-Serving Commercial Uses. Encourage retention of existing neighborhood commercial uses. Allow new commercial uses only if they benefit the neighborhood, will not impair its residential character or impact health and safety, and have been vetted through a community process. CDD Ongoing Program NH- 2.8A Camgros/Duca Properties. Ensure that any future use on these properties supports and sustains neighborhood character. The neighborhood has expressed that it supports acquisition of these sites for a neighborhood/community cultural center, or dedication of land for such a site in future development. Such a center could also provide for outdoor education, emergency response and training, community functions, and delivery of local services. The potential for housing on this site also must be recognized. In the event residential development is pursued, clustering of the allowable units should be encouraged to preserve open space areas. Development should comply with the City’s Hillside Guidelines and should establish a wildlife corridor and protected riparian area along a restored Mahon Creek. CDD No Action Program NH- 2.10A Community Center. Consider the feasibility of a community cultural and environmental center in the Sun Valley area. In addition, strengthen the function of Sun Valley School and Sun Valley Park as neighborhood gathering places. This includes continued agreements with the School for access to the school yard after hours as well as access to the Dan Abraham Trail. These agreements could be expanded to allow for community meetings, L&R, CM No Action 26 emergency response, and other activities on school property. Program NH- 2.11A Hillside Construction. Ensure that hillside areas are protected by continuing to apply the Hillside Residential Design Guidelines for new construction and major remodels. The siting, height, and design of new or expanded structures should be carefully evaluated to ensure adequate emergency vehicle access, slope and foundation stability, adequate surface and sub-surface drainage, and erosion control. Buildings that are out of scale, damage the natural landscape, cause excessive tree loss or habitat destruction, or obstruct scenic vistas from public vantage points, should be discouraged. CDD Ongoing Ongoing when not SB 9 application. Program NH- 2.13A Lincoln Avenue Development Standards. Maintain development standards that preserve the character of Lincoln Avenue, including: a) 36-foot (three story) height limit 1 b) 15’ front yard setbacks c) Continued allowances for multi-family residential and office uses. This includes a continued prohibition on the conversion of existing residential space to office use unless replacement residential units are provided. d) Prohibition of most new retail uses (while allowing existing uses to continue) e) Requirements to mitigate noise impacts from SMART, the freeway, and Lincoln Avenue traffic, where appropriate. CDD Ongoing 1 Subject to density bonuses for affordable housing 27 Program NH- 2.13B Lincoln/San Rafael Hill Park. Pursue opportunities to develop a small neighborhood park in the northern part of the Lincoln/San Rafael neighborhood. L&R, CM No Action Program NH- 2.14A University-Neighborhood Coordination. Maintain on-going coordination between Dominican University, the Dominican-Black Canyon Neighborhood Association, the City of San Rafael, and campus neighbors to address concerns such as traffic, parking, noise, and vegetation management in the University area. In the event future development or campus expansion is proposed, amendments to the Master Use Permit shall be required. Creation of neighborhood advisory committees to advise and collaborate on proposed development projects and address issues of concern is strongly encouraged. CDD Ongoing Program NH- 2.14B Dominican Hillside Parcels. Work with Dominican University and neighborhood residents to plan for the undeveloped hillside parcels located east of Deer Park Avenue and south of Gold Hill Grade. Much of the property is steep and heavily wooded. Other portions have the potential for housing, including student housing and faculty/staff housing, which is a significant local and community need. In the event housing is pursued, the permitted density should reflect site constraints. Development should conform to the City’s Hillside Residential Design Guidelines and include provisions for substantial open space. The neighborhood should be involved in the planning and review process, which would include an amendment to the Master Use Permit and the PD -district zoning. CDD No Action 28 Program NH- 2.15A Emergency Preparedness. Continue collaborative efforts to improve emergency preparedness, including vegetation management on public open space and private property, evacuation and emergency response, and community awareness and training. FIRE Ongoing Staff continued efforts in collaboration with community partners. Program NH- 2.15B Noise Reduction. Continue to work with Caltrans to reduce freeway noise in the Dominican/Black Canyon area. This should include maintenance of landscaping along the freeway sound wall, noise- reducing pavement, and other sound absorption technologies. PW Ongoing Program NH- 2.15C Open Space Dedication. Consider offers to dedicate vacant sites, including the 17.9-acre parcel at the end of Dominican Drive (also with frontage on Glen Park Avenue), as public open space. If City ownership is infeasible, consider dedication to Marin County Parks. PW, CM No Action Program NH- 2.17A Corporation Yard Reuse. Encourage relocation of the bus/maintenance yard located on the northwest corner of the high school campus (Union and Mission), thereby allowing for development of: a) Affordable multi-family housing. To the extent feasible, housing on the site should serve older adults and/or School District staff. Any development on this site should maintain, enhance, and protect the view corridor down Fourth Street to the High School’s west portico. b) Montecito Neighborhood Park. A small neighborhood park and children’s playground should be included in any plans to repurpose PW, CDD No Action 29 school property. In the event a park is infeasible on the Union and Mission site, consider other locations on the campus where such a facility is possible, including a joint use park on the field east of the corporation yard. If any part of the high school campus is closed or sold before the horizon of the General Plan, a priority should be placed on developing affordable housing or neighborhood parkland. Program NH- 2.17B Joint Use. Work with San Rafael City Schools to accommodate greater public access to open space and athletic fields at the High School during hours when school is not in session. CDD No Action Program NH- 2.17C School-Related Traffic. Work with San Rafael City Schools to improve the safety and effectiveness of drop-off areas at San Rafael High School. Encourage continued communication and cooperation to address access and scheduling improvements. PW Progress San Pedro Crosswalk improvements in front of SR High School. Redesign of Nova Albion in front of Terra Linda High School. Program NH- 2.19A Access to Downtown. Provide safe access from the Montecito-Happy Valley area to Fourth Street, the Montecito Shopping Center, the Canal waterfront, and the transit center area. Streetscape improvements in the eastern end of Downtown should create an inviting, comfortable environment for walking. PW No Action Program NH- 2.19B Pedestrian Improvements. Improve the safety and condition of neighborhood sidewalks, including improvements to crosswalks, posting of speed limits, and improvements to pedestrian paths and rights-of-way. Work with the neighborhood to gather information on sidewalks and paths needing improvement. PW Ongoing The city continues to provide funding for the sidewalk repair program, which allows residents to fix their sidewalks and the city will provide a partial match. In addition, PW has set aside money in the CIP annually to fix sidewalks owned/maintained by the city. The City established an inventory of 30 pedestrian facilities and work is ongoing on making critical improvements. Program NH- 2.20A Parking Improvements. Continue to explore practical and cost-effective solutions to manage parking in the Montecito area. These measures could include residential permit parking, time limits on parking on specific high-demand streets, working with apartment owners to restore parking spaces being used for storage, working with property owners to add on-site parking where feasible, and posting no parking signs on narrow streets with access constraints for emergency vehicles. Parking Services No Action Program NH- 2.21A Reuse of Commercial Properties. Actively solicit input from Montecito-Happy Valley residents on plans for the reuse, redevelopment, and improvement of properties in the commercial area between US 101 and San Rafael High School, including the Montecito Shopping Center. ED, CDD No Action Program NH- 2.22A Bret Harte Neighborhood Priorities. Recognize the following neighborhood priorities in planning and development decisions for the Bret Harte area: a) Maintain strict limits on hillside development. Existing hillside open spaces should be reinforced and proactively managed to prevent future landslides. b) Encourage safety improvements to infrastructure, including undergrounding power lines and monitoring aging gas lines through residential yards. c) Improve bicycle and pedestrian access along Woodland Avenue, providing safer routes to school, and better access to Downtown San CDD, PW, FIRE Progress Fire continued outreach efforts in collaboration with community partners, including age friendly San Rafael. Fire and PPD work collaboratively to discourage encampments and remove vegetation in areas where they are reoccurring. 31 Rafael. d) Improve neighborhood aesthetics and landscaping, particularly at the neighborhood gateways at DuBois and Irwin Streets. Additional trees should be planted throughout the area, and existing trees should be maintained. e) Continue improvements to Bret Harte Park, including hillside landscaping to prevent erosion, community art projects, shade tree maintenance, completion of restroom improvements, and replacement of the water tank while preserving the historic wooden structure that surrounds it. f) Expand emergency preparedness activities, particularly for older adults. g) Encourage renovation of the Bret Harte Shopping Center. h) Monitor and discourage homeless encampments in the open space below Southern Heights Ridge. Program NH- 2.23A Short School. Coordinate with San Rafael City Schools on the future of Short Elementary School. Uses should be compatible with the surrounding residential neighborhood and sensitive to potential impacts on parking, traffic, noise, and similar factors. See also Program CDP-5.2B (Community Design and Preservation) identifying Gerstle Park as one of several priority areas for a historic resource inventory update. CDD Program NH- 2.25A Gateway Improvements. Provide landscaping improvements along B, C, and D Streets. PW No Action 32 Program NH- 3.1A Southeast San Rafael Community Plan. Prepare a Plan for the Southeast San Rafael area, including its business districts and the Canal neighborhood. The Plan should be comprehensive in scope, covering land use, transportation, housing, public safety, conservation, sea level adaptation, and economic vitality issues. The Plan should be based on an inclusive public process that gives voice to Canal residents and Southeast San Rafael businesses. The type of Plan to be prepared (Precise Plan, Specific Plan, etc.) will be determined based on available resources and project objectives. CDD, PW, FIRE, PD, CM (Sustainability), ED Progress The City has applied for grant funding to create a precise plan for the Canal PDA. Program NH- 3.2A Design Plan and Vision for the Canalfront. Continue implementation of the Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan, including circulation and access improvements and development of a waterfront paseo. (see text box on page 4-37). CDD Ongoing Program NH- 3.3A Canal Dredging. Support efforts to dredge the San Rafael Canal to ensure its continued navigability, effectiveness for flood control and sea level rise resilience, and value as natural habitat and a recreational resource. Pursue a reliable ongoing funding source for dredging and channel maintenance, potentially including a maintenance assessment district and federal funding. See also Policy CSI -1.11 in the Community Services and Infrastructure Element PW Progress Working with the Army Corps of Engineers, the City has helped secure $7.7 million to dredge the federal channel in the fall 2022. In addition, the City is coordinating an umbrella permit for all properties along the canal to secure environmental clearance to dredge between the federal channel and the shoreline. In 2023, the City plans to explore an assessment district to create a reliable funding source. Program NH- 3.4A Zoning. Maintain zoning provisions to protect and incentivize water-oriented uses. Amend zoning as needed to permit floating homes and other water- dependent housing. CDD No Action 33 Program NH- 3.4B State Lands Commission Title Claims. To assist in redevelopment, resolve public trust title land claims that enable the City to convey or exchange certain filled lands which are found to be no longer necessary for use as harbors, commerce, navigation, fisheries, or appurtenances, consistent with State law. PW, City Attorney No Action Program NH- 3.5A Canalfront Design Guidelines. Use the development review process to implement the 2009 Design Guidelines for the Canal Waterfront, including requirements for a 25’ waterside setback for new buildings and a 10’ paseo along the waterfront. Amenities such as seating, lighting, and bike racks should be provided along the shoreline. The Design Guidelines include provisions for building materials, architecture, lighting, signage, views, public open space, landscaping, street furniture, streets and sidewalks, and sustainability. CDD Ongoing Program NH- 3.6A Circulation Improvements. Continue to seek funding opportunities for pedestrian and bicycle enhancements along the Canal and include such projects in the Capital Improvement Program as funding becomes available. In addition, explore the feasibility of future water taxi service between the Downtown/Transit Center area and points along the Canal and shoreline. PW Progress The city applied for multiple grant opportunities for a Canal neighborhood multimodal experience enhancement project. Program NH- 3.6B Water Access. As outlined in the Canalfront Design Guidelines, provide public access for boat docks and kayak launches in new development where feasible. Waterside access for boats should be encouraged in new commercial development along the Canal. CDD Ongoing Program NH- 3.7A Public Boat Launching Facilities. Promote the addition of public boat launching facilities for small non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks at Beach PW, CDD No Action 34 Park and the Montecito Shopping Center. Program NH- 3.7B Boating Sanitation and Dock Safety. Implement the Vessel Sanitation and Dock Safety provisions of the San Rafael Municipal Code (Chapter 17.40) to protect water quality, ensure adequate equipment for boat sanitation and sewage pump- out facilities. See also Conservation/Climate Change Element Policy C-3.6 and Programs C-3.6A, -B, and C-3.6B on canal water quality, sanitation, and sewage pump out facilities. PW, Sanitation No Action Program NH- 3.8A Pump Station Improvements. Improve the appearance or relocate the City’s Pump Station at 569 East Francisco Boulevard (near the San Rafael Yacht Harbor). See also Policies S-3.1 through S-3.9 in the Safety and Resilience Element on Sea Level Rise. PW No Action Program NH- 3.9A Consideration of General Plan Amendments. Retain the existing Industrial and Light Industrial zoning in the Andersen-Woodland corridor in order to preserve the much-needed industrial base serving both San Rafael and Marin County. In the event General Plan amendments and rezoning are proposed, a comprehensive assessment of impacts on local businesses, relocation options, land use compatibility, and fiscal conditions should be required. CDD No Action Program NH- 3.9B Industrial Area Design Improvements. Upgrade the condition and appearance of properties as redevelopment or remodeling occurs. When new development and remodels are proposed, consider visual and view impacts on the Bret Harte and Picnic Valley neighborhoods, Highway CDD No Action 35 101, and adjacent transportation routes. As necessary, apply requirements to screen outdoor storage areas and rooftop mechanical equipment. Program NH- 3.9C Woodland Avenue. Create a more compatible transition between industrial and residential properties along Woodland Avenue. New or redeveloping industrial properties should minimize the potential for adverse impacts to nearby residential uses. Similarly, new housing on residentially zoned sites should minimize the potential for negative impacts on industrial uses and business operations. CDD No Action Program NH- 3.9D Andersen Drive. Continue to minimize vehicular access points onto Andersen Drive to maintain maximum traffic flow. CDD, PW No Action Program NH- 3.10A Francisco Boulevard West Zoning. Maintain zoning regulations for the Francisco Boulevard West corridor that capitalize on the area’s freeway frontage. Zoning should be periodically updated to respond to economic and market changes. As the retail environment changes, other uses with positive fiscal benefits should be permitted and encouraged. CDD Ongoing Program NH- 3.10B Property Assembly. For properties along Francisco Boulevard West and adjacent side streets where significant redevelopment and upgrading is needed, facilitate cooperative efforts among property owners to assemble and redevelop individual parcels. ED, CDD No Action Program NH- 3.10C Andersen/Francisco Boulevard West. Facilitate improvement of the older commercial centers around the intersection of Andersen Drive, CM, ED, CDD No Action 36 Francisco Blvd. West, and the southbound Highway 101 on- and off-ramps (Graham and Rice Centers). This could include assistance with lot assembly, substantial upgrading of the properties, and redevelopment with desired uses. Program NH- 3.11A Lindaro Mixed Use Zoning. Maintain the Lindaro Mixed Use Zoning district. Consider potential expansion of this district to the north side of Andersen and west of Irwin Street, extending to Mahon Creek, along with its rebranding as an “Innovation District” that capitalizes on its proximity to Downtown San Rafael and the transit center area. CDD No Action Program NH- 3.12A Increasing the Affordable Housing Supply. Use the upcoming San Rafael Housing Element and Southeast San Rafael Precise Plan processes to identify specific programs addressing local housing needs. CDD (Housing) Progress The City is working with stakeholders on the 2023 – 2031 Housing Element Update to identify opportunity sites for housing development and specific programs and policies that are responsive to the needs assessment and community feedback. Program NH- 3.13A Police Substation. Pursue development of a police substation to provide faster, more effective service to the Canal area and Southeast San Rafael. PD No Action Program NH- 3.14A Bellam/Windward Park. Pursue development of a neighborhood park on publicly owned land at the southeast corner of Bellam Boulevard and Windward Way, or on an equivalent publicly- owned property in this area. L&R No Action Program NH- 3.14B Community Meeting Space. Meet the need for affordable meeting and activity space, both at the Albert Boro Community Center and through the development of additional community facilities in new development. Incentives and density bonuses should be provided for private/non-profit development that sets aside space for CDD No Action 37 neighborhood-based activities such as child care, education, and job training. See the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Element for programs on public facility and infrastructure investment in the Canal. The Precise Plan for Southeast San Rafael should further address these needs. Program NH- 3.15A Canal Parking Management. Continue to implement measures to manage parking in the Canal, including time-limited parking and enforcement of parking rules. Consider additional measures to balance supply and demand, including shared parking with private businesses, increasing supply, and improving other transportation modes, such as transit and bicycling. Parking Services No Action Program NH- 3.15B Community Based Transportation Plan (CBTP) Update. Update the Canal CBTP to reflect progress made since completion of the 2006 Plan and address current transportation issues. See also Policy NH-3.22 on the I-580/US 101 interchange. CDD, PW Progress The Department of Public Works plans to spearhead a community engagement effort and form a Stakeholder Committee to update the Community Based Transportation Plan (CBTP). The CBTP will be presented to City Council summer of 2022. The City is currently working on adding and enhancing street lights in the Canal. In addition, we have applied for multiple grant funding opportunities. Program NH- 3.16A Core Canal Industrial/Office (CCI/O) District. Amend the Core Canal Industrial/Office zoning district to provide more flexibility for neighborhood businesses that are compatible with the existing mix of commercial and industrial activities in this zone. Housing should not be permitted in the CCI/O district. CDD No Action 38 Program NH- 3.17A Public Plaza. Encourage the creation of a public plaza to serve the Canal community. If a site cannot be identified in the Medway-Vivian area, pursue acquisition and improvement of another site nearby. The plaza should be planned and programmed by and for the Canal community, using the Precise Plan process as a starting point. CM, L&R, CDD No Action Program NH- 3.19A Youth and Family Services. Prioritize additional programs for youth and families in the Canal area, including child care and more activities for young people. L&R Progress The Library and Recreation Department plans to partner with San Rafael City Schools and Marin YMCA to implement a free summer camp for up to 75 Canal youth in the summer of 2022. Program NH- 3.21A Sea Level Rise Adaptation. Engage the Spinnaker Point/Baypoint Lagoons community in sea level rise adaptation, odor mitigation, and flood control efforts. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program NH- 3.21B Parking Spillover. Continue efforts to manage parking on neighborhood streets. Ensure that new development in the vicinity of Spinnaker/Baypoint includes provisions to meet parking demand without worsening existing shortages (see also Program NH-3.15A). Parking Services Ongoing Ongoing project involving representatives from the ESR community as well as city staff. Program NH- 3.22A Interchange Improvement Process. Ensure local participation and advocacy in planning, design, and environmental review for the 101/580 interchange. The project should include mitigation measures that facilitate local access and circulation in Southeast San Rafael, and benefit all modes of travel, including bicycles, pedestrians, and transit. Expansion of the project scope should be considered so it includes the segment of I-580 between US 101 and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge as well as safety and functional requirements to improve access to Bellam Boulevard and other major thoroughfares CDD, PW Progress City staff has participated in technical planning meetings for the Interchange Improvement Process. 39 in Southeast San Rafael. Program NH- 3.24A Canalways Conservation and Development Plan. Encourage preparation of a Canalways Conservation and Development Plan by the landowners. Such a Plan could become the basis for defining the developable area and permitting and defining additional land uses. The first step of this process should be a biological assessment and updated delineation of wetlands. CDD, PW, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program NH- 4.2A North San Rafael Town Center Plan. Pursue funding to prepare a more detailed plan for the North San Rafael Town Center area (such as a precise plan or a specific plan), including Northgate Mall and commercial properties in the vicinity. The plan shall include a community- driven process that fully engages property owners, business owners, community residents, and government agencies. It should update the 1997 vision and identify strategies to strengthen the Town Center as a community gathering place, while recognizing market conditions, retail and office trends, housing needs, transportation and infrastructure capacity, and the potential for off- site impacts. See also Program LU-3.1A on the North San Rafael Town Center Community Plan, as well as policies in the Land Use, Community Design, and Noise Elements on land use compatibility. ED, CDD No Action Program NH- 4.2B Outdoor Gathering Places. Include outdoor public places that support community activities and entertainment such as a public plaza for periodic arts and cultural events, outdoor cafes with music, restaurants with sidewalk or patio dining, children’s play areas, teen-centered spaces, and other uses that provide outdoor CDD, L&R No Action 40 seating. Design of retail spaces should be flexible enough to support these types of activities in the future. Program NH- 4.2C Incentives. Provide development incentives to attract desired uses to the Town Center, including retail, office, housing, and community services. Allow a height bonus of two stories (24 feet) for affordable housing. CDD No Action Program NH- 4.2D Farmers Market. Consider a partnership with the Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM) to bring the Farmers Market to the Town Center as a permanent feature, as feasible. ED, L&R Progress ED and the BID have an ongoing dialogue with AIM leadership. Program NH- 4.3A Pedestrian-Friendly Design. Provide design guidance through the Town Center planning process. One of the objectives of this process should be to give the area a stronger pedestrian feel and improve its walkability, including landscaped walkways and improved connectivity to surrounding neighborhoods. CDD No Action Program NH- 4.4A Promenade and Other Improvements. Use the development review and capital improvement program process to complete the North San Rafael Promenade through the Town Center. Considerations include: a. Routing of the Promenade to include safer crossings from the Civic Center and along Freitas Parkway. Consistent with the 2013 Station Area Plan and more recent community input, this also includes long-term improvements along Merrydale (on the east side of Mt. Olivet Cemetery) and through the Northgate III site in the event that site is CDD, PW Progress PW is working with a consultant on the 30% design on the Merrydale from Northgate to SMART to improve the pedestrian and bicycle experience. 41 redeveloped. a. Implementing Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan (2018) improvements through the Town Center area, including increased availability of bicycle racks a. Increasing public transit to and from the Town Center and making it safer and easier to access bus stops. This includes possible shuttle service to Civic Center station. a. Implementing traffic calming on parking lot access roads, and redesigning traffic flow to minimize conflict between vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians a. Designing any new parking structures to provide safe pedestrian access and reduced traffic conflicts. Program NH- 4.4B Improved Entrance to the Mall. Support redesign of intersections along Las Gallinas, Northgate Drive, Del Presidio, and Merrydale to improve traffic flow and improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Support realignment of driveways along Las Gallinas to form safer intersections and pedestrian crossings. See also Mobility Element Policy M-2.5 on Level of Service standards for road segments and intersections in the North San Rafael Town Center vicinity, including requirements for traffic studies. The standards reflect anticipated future traffic volumes and will provide the basis for future improvements to ensure safe and adequate access. PW No Action 42 Program NH- 4.5A Eichler-Alliance Overlay. Continue to enforce provisions of the Eichler-Alliance Overlay District, including height limits and design review requirements for most roof modifications. Consider preparation of design guidelines to preserve the characteristic features of these homes, and possible expansion of the Overlay District to include additional homes with similar features CDD Ongoing Ongoing through development review. Program NH- 4.6A Shopping Center Improvements. Work with the property owners, tenants, and neighborhood residents to achieve the following objectives: a) Retention of popular local businesses, such as Scotty’s Market b) A pedestrian-oriented plaza with shade trees, outdoor seating, and outdoor dining c) Coordinated, refreshed entry signage at Freitas and Del Ganado d) A limited amount of housing, including smaller and affordable units that would provide opportunities for seniors and local employees while not intruding on the surrounding lower density neighborhood. ED, CDD No Action Program NH- 4.7A Community Improvements. Consider the following improvements in the Terra Linda area: a) Modernization of the Terra Linda Community Center to meet current and future needs b) Additional recreation facilities for youth, such as a teen center or skate park c) Upgraded pocket parks along Freitas Parkway (Arbor, Munson, and Hillview), linked to a broader effort to restore Gallinas Creek (see next policy) d) Retention of the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, including improvements L&R, CM, PW No Action 43 to address traffic and parking e) Implementation of North San Rafael Promenade improvements, especially between the Community Center and Freitas Parkway to encourage access by foot and bike f) Improved pedestrian walkways connecting Terra Linda streets g) Additional public recreational opportunities at School District-owned sports fields, such as those at Santa Margarita School h) Safety improvements to infrastructure (see NH-4.8A(a) below). See also Policy NSR-2 on the Northgate Branch Library Program NH- 4.8A Beautification and Restoration Projects. Pursue the following beautification and restoration projects in Terra Linda: a) Undergrounding of utilities along Freitas Parkway and Del Ganado Road b) Additional landscaping and street trees c) Restoring the hydrologic function of Santa Margarita Creek, including possible removal of the concrete channel bottom and expansion of planting area for successful tree planting. An expanded tree canopy will help to lower water temperatures and protect water quality. d) Restoration of Las Gallinas Creek e) Daylighting of creeks and drainageways in other locations wherever feasible. Creek restoration projects should be designed to restore a more natural hydrologic flow, stabilize creek beds, increase stormwater absorption, PW No Action 44 improve riparian habitat and water quality, maintain storm drainage capabilities, and avoid flooding. Opportunities to combine creek restoration, utility, and promenade projects for funding purposes are strongly encouraged, and will make projects more competitive in the grant application process. Program NH- 4.10A Station Area Plan Implementation. Consider additional development opportunities along Merrydale Road consistent with the land use recommendations of the Civic Center Station Area Plan (2012). Existing height limits should be maintained at currently allowed levels. Any project in this vicinity should reflect traffic, water, and sewer capacity and emergency vehicle access constraints and be compatible with neighborhood character. CDD No Action Program NH- 4.10B Pedestrian and Bicycle Access to the Station. Develop an ADA compatible path on the south side of the SMART rail line to connect Merrydale Road with Civic Center Drive (east of 101). Implement other access and circulation recommendations as called for by the Civic Center Station Area Plan (2013) to improve pedestrian and bicycle access to the station and nearby destinations, including a safe pedestrian/bicycle crossing of the tracks between the north and south segments of Merrydale. PW No Action Program NH- 4.10C Merrydale/Southbound 101 Improvements. Consistent with the Station Area Plan, pursue improvements to the Southbound 101 on and off ramps at Merrydale. PW No Action Program NH- 4.11A Zoning. Ensure that zoning for the Northgate Business Park area protects the viability of industrial uses while adapting to new uses and CDD No Action 45 trends in production, distribution, repair, and sales. Parcels with “Office” zoning along Redwood Highway may be considered for other uses, including live-work and multi-family housing, provided these uses are compatible with adjacent activities. Program NH- 4.11B Access to Civic Center Station. Improve access to the Civic Center SMART station from this area, potentially including shuttle service along Redwood Highway and additional pathways as recommended by the 2013 Station Area Plan. See also Program NH-4.18A on Gallinas Creek and marsh protection in this area PW No Action Program NH- 4.12A Design and Landscaping. Upgrade building design and landscaping through new construction and remodeling projects, particularly along Redwood Highway. Evaluate the design of projects, including views from Highway 101, with particular attention paid to rooftop equipment and screening of mechanical equipment. CDD No Action Program NH- 4.12B Pedestrian Safety. Improve pedestrian and bicycle safety along Redwood Highway with improved sidewalks, bike amenities, and landscaping. PW No Action Program NH- 4.14A Civic Center Design. Monitor, review and comment on County development at and around the Civic Center. Encourage the County to go through a design review process and involve the North San Rafael community in the evaluation and review of proposed changes at the Civic Center. Request that the County provide sufficient opportunity for review of major development proposals at the Civic Center by the Design Review Board, Planning Commission and City Council. CDD No Action 46 Program NH- 4.15B Station Area Plan. Implement the recommendations prescribed in the Civic Center Station Area Plan (See text box on next page). Continue to evaluate parking needs and develop plans to avoid adverse effects of parking on neighborhoods. CDD No Action Program NH- 4.16A Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements. Pursue improvements consistent with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan and the North San Rafael Vision Promenade Plan to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety, including: a) Completion of the southern segment of the North San Rafael Promenade to Civic Center Drive, consistent with community input b) Lighting and sidewalks on both sides of Civic Center Drive between the Civic Center and the Merrydale overcrossing c) Extension of the McInnis Parkway sidepath across the south fork of Gallinas Creek, providing a trail connection to McInnis Park in the SMART right-of-way while protecting creek and marsh habitat d) Bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements on North San Pedro Road between Los Ranchitos Road and Civic Center Drive e) Working with Golden Gate Transit to provide for safer bus pad locations and design along Highway 101. PW No Action Program NH- 4.17A San Rafael Airport. As needed, require improvements consistent with this policy through the development review process. CDD, PW, FIRE Ongoing Multiple departments will continue to use the development review process to ensure that required improvements are consistent with retaining “Airport/Recreation.” Fire will continue to coordinate with other City 47 departments to ensure codes relating to fire protection and life safety are met. Program NH- 4.18A Wetland Management. Support efforts to: a) Conserve and enhance the McInnis Marsh wetlands, including sea level rise adaptation projects b) Maintain Smith Ranch Pond, including removal of exotic plants, habitat enhancement, and potentially adding a public observation area c) Restore and enhance the North and South Forks of Gallinas Creek, including the marshland area south of Contempo Marin and east of Northgate Business Park. d) Monitor for presence of Ridgway’s Rail along the North Fork. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program NH- 5.1A Hazard Mitigation. Implement programs to improve the resilience of the San Pedro Peninsula to natural hazards, including: a) Reinforcing the shoreline to reduce flooding and sea level rise hazards and explore other mitigations. b) Managing wildfire hazards, particularly through vegetation management on hillside open space, replacement of hazardous trees with native species when possible, and coordination with the State and other open space stewards to reduce hazards in China Camp State Park and McNears Beach. c) Working with utility operators to ensure a reliable power supply and telecommunication services at all times (i.e, before, during, and after an emergency). d) Continuing emergency preparedness efforts, including evacuation procedures and identification of short-term and CM (Sustainability), FIRE Ongoing Ongoing- multiple grants have been applied for to address sea level rise and flooding. Extensive work has been completed to reduce wildfire risk in the area with additional projects planned. Multiple presentations drills have occurred and will continue in collaboration is the San Pedro Disaster Coalition and other community groups. 48 longer-term shelter locations, medical services, and supplies. e) Identification of alternate emergency evacuation routes via China Camp and North San Pedro Road. f) Support for micro-grids to improve the reliability and sustainability of electrical service and minimize the impacts of outages. g) Innovative solutions to flooding and sea level rise, such as creation of artificial beaches, reworking rip rap to attenuate wave energy, and improving the promenade west of the McNear Brickyard, among others. Program NH- 5.1B Community Center. Explore opportunities to create a public community center that can serve as a location for programs, recreational services, community events, and emergency preparedness/response. This should include opportunities created at such time that the San Rafael Rock Quarry/McNear Brickyard ceases operations and is planned for reuse. L&R No Action Program NH- 5.1C Wetlands. Explore forward-thinking and sustainable ways to maintain and improve the vitality of the wetlands along the Peninsula shoreline. Work cooperatively with the County to manage wetlands in the unincorporated area. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program NH- 5.2A Point San Pedro Road Improvements. Continue efforts to maintain Point San Pedro Road as a vital community lifeline. This should include long-term plans to raise the road elevation and increase the height of the rock wall along the shoreline. It should also include maintaining traffic capacity and flow, exploring opportunities for public transit, reducing vehicle noise through special pavement, PW No Action 49 providing safer conditions for bicyclists and pedestrians, ensuring emergency vehicle access, and maintaining the median and roadside areas. Program NH- 5.3A Environmental Quality Improvements. Ensure that City properties and infrastructure are maintained in a way that protects environmental quality, reduces hazards, and protects the quality of life. This should include maintenance of stormwater pumps at Riviera Drive and Point San Pedro Road, implementing best practices for reducing siltation and improving water quality in the Peacock Gap Lagoon, renovating and maintaining Peacock and Riviera Parks, and continuing efforts to improve roads and other infrastructure. Sanitation No Action Program NH- 5.4A Completion of Village Improvements. Pursue timely completion of the Village at Loch Lomond Marina project consistent with approved plans, as amended. This should include: a) Completion of the remaining residential units and mixed-use building. b) Construction of the Harbormasters office, boat repair facility, fuel storage and pumping facility/fuel dock, and reskinning of the yacht club building. c) Completion of recreational improvements, including a kayak dock and launch ramp and public access improvements in the center plaza. d) Flood-related repair work to previously completed areas and further measures to reduce flooding during peak storm events and king tides. e) Completion of the pedestrian access path. f) Off-site road and utility improvements CDD Progress Phase II residential development (The Strand) is underway, kayak launch is installed, ongoing work related to off-site and other improvements. 50 along Point San Pedro Road. g) Installation of a bird viewing area and interpretive signage. Program NH- 5.4B Parking and Traffic Studies. Consistent with the conditions of approval, monitor traffic and parking conditions at Loch Lomond Marina. A traffic and parking study should be done within one year of completion of the project as required under the permits to determine the need to retain areas currently reserved for future parking. CDD No Action Program NH- 5.4C Common Area Maintenance. Continue to maintain publicly-accessible parks, shoreline areas, and a marina green through a community facilities (Mello-Roos) district. PW No Action Program NH- 5.4D Community Engagement. Continue to engage the community, including representatives of nearby homeowner and neighborhood associations, in the review of progress and resolution of issues related to the Village development and Marina operations. CDD Ongoing Monthly Oversight meetings keep HOAs apprised on work within the Marina. Program NH- 5.4E Coordination with Regulatory Agencies. Continue coordination of project- related activities with natural resource agencies, including the Bay Conservation and Development Commission, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and other agencies with responsibility for the Bay and wetland areas. CDD, PW, Ongoing Program NH- 5.5A Disaster Preparedness. Continue efforts to improve disaster preparedness and reduce hazards, including a fire break along the ridgeline above Loch Lomond FIRE Ongoing Ongoing- initial fuel reduction work is completed with more planned. Staff continue to seek funding for sea level rise projects. 51 Highlands, continued maintenance of storm drainage facilities, and adaptation to sea level rise along San Rafael Bay and the San Rafael Creek shoreline. Program NH- 5.6A Quarry Impacts. Seek ongoing input into County activities, land use entitlements, and negotiations with Quarry operator that might reduce impacts on City infrastructure or properties in the City of San Rafael. The City will support Best Management Practices for Quarry operations, including air quality testing, water quality monitoring and improvements, and runoff controls that reflect the latest technology and scientific methods. The City will further promote joint City-County and Quarry operator efforts to address flooding and sea level rise, pedestrian and bicycle safety, wetlands restoration, and noise mitigation. PW Ongoing Program NH- 5.6B Environmental Review. If and when the Quarry applies for modifications to its existing Operating Permit, participate in discussions to ensure that: a) Potential environmental impacts and hazards are minimized. b) Public health, safety and quality of life are protected. c) Traffic and noise impacts are addressed, particularly impacts on Point San Pedro Road. d) Future costs associated with reclamation, such as long-term environmental restoration and infrastructure repair, are objectively evaluated and considered in decisions about future Quarry operations. e) With input from residents, confirm that Quarry operations and any proposed CDD, PW Progress Reviewed and commented on CEQA document for extension of quarry operations summer 2021. 52 Operating Permit changes do not violate, and are in conformance with, applicable court orders and non-conforming use restrictions. Program NH- 5.7A Quarry Planning. Participate, through the County of Marin, in any revisions to the San Rafael Rock Quarry Reclamation Plan, which should form the basis for decisions about future land uses and possible annexation. PW, CDD No Action Program NH- 5.7B Shoreline Use. Use the development review process to establish a bay frontage linear park that connects McNear Beach to the existing shoreline walkway along Point San Pedro Road. The park should incorporate sea level rise adaptation measures. CDD, CM (Sustainability) No Action COMMUNITY DESIGN AND PRESERVATION ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Community Design and Preservation Element in attainment of San Rafael’s community design and preservation goals: • Goal CDP-1: A Beautiful City • Goal CDP-4: Quality Construction and Design • Goal CDP-2: A Sense of Place • Goal CDP-5: Protection of Cultural Heritage • Goal CDP-3: Attractive Streets and Public Spaces PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program CDP- 1.3A Hillside Residential Design Guidelines. Continue to implement hillside residential design guidelines through the design review process, as well as larger lot size requirements for hillside areas where there are access limitations or natural hazards. Update the design guidelines as needed. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 1.3B Hillside Lot Consolidation. Where feasible, consolidate small, nonconforming hillside lots in areas with slope and emergency vehicle access constraints into larger, conforming parcels. Apply CDD Ongoing 53 hillside development standards in the event such lots are developed to ensure that construction is compatible with the neighborhood development pattern. See the Conservation/Climate; Safety/Resilience; and Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Elements for additional policies on hillside management, landslide hazard reduction, wildf ire prevention, and related topics. Program CDP- 1.4A Canalfront Design Plan. Implement the Canalfront Conceptual Design Plan (2009) recommendations. Development near the shoreline should maximize views to the water and public access to the shoreline. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 1.4B Canal Promenade. Pursue development of a continuous pathway or promenade along the Canal waterfront. PW, CDD No Action Program CDP- 1.5A Evaluating View Impacts. Consider the impact of proposed development on views, especially views of Mt Tamalpais and nearby ridgelines. Where feasible, new development should frame views of ridges and mountains and minimize reduction of views, privacy, and solar access. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 1.5B Guidance on View Protection. Establish clearer, more objective City guidelines and standards on view protection, privacy, and solar access for new development, additions, and alterations. CDD No Action Program CDP- 1.5C Downtown Height Profile. Develop zoning and design tools that encourage both continuity and variation in building heights, along with improved solar access and interesting roof elements such as domes, cupolas, and corner towers. Views of CDD Progress The Downtown San Rafael Precise Plan and Form-Based Code was adopted August 2021 and includes a section on Building Height and Transitions. 54 Downtown should be accented by memorable building elements, rather than a flat profile of buildings of uniform height. Program CDP- 2.1A Place Types. Identify “place types” in the city that establish defining characteristics and provide the basis for objective design standards. Design standards for each place type should support housing production and commercial development that is consistent and compatible with each neighborhood or employment district (see Figure 5-4). CDD No Action Program CDP- 2.1B Design Guidance. Use precise plans, specific plans, and similar tools to establish a design vision for different parts of the city, and to identify desired improvements. See also Policy NH-4.2 on the vision for the North San Rafael Town Center CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 2.2A Downtown Precise Plan. Implement the design recommendations and standards of the Downtown Precise Plan, including public improvements. CDD Progress The Downtown Precise Plan and Form- Based Code was adopted August 2021 and the Community Development Department implements the design recommendations and standards of the Downtown Precise Plan on an ongoing basis as new inquires and projects are received regard ing projects in the Downtown Area. Program CDP- 2.3A Code Enforcement. Maintain code enforcement and nuisance abatement programs to address litter, illegal dumping, unlawful storage, and property maintenance issues. CDD (Code Enforcement) Ongoing Program CDP- 2.3B Educational Materials. Continue to provide programs and educational materials to inform property owners about property maintenance requirements, and sanitation, health, and safety standards. CDD Ongoing 55 See the Housing Element for policies on residential rehabilitation loans and other issues related to maintenance and repair of the housing stock. See also Program LU-2.12 and Policy H-16 on ADUs, including best practices for integrating ADUs into the fabric of existing homes and neighborhoods. See Policy EDI-3.5 on property maintenance. Program CDP- 2.4A Streetscape Guidelines. Develop general streetscape guidelines for residential arterials, auto-oriented commercial streets, pedestrian streets, and other types of streets in the city. Include site-specific recommendations for individual corridors when needed. Streetscape guidelines should support climate change and “complete streets” goals as well as aesthetic goals. PW No Action Program CDP- 2.4B Right-of-Way Landscaping. Encourage Caltrans to install and maintain landscaping along Highway 101 and Interstate 580. PW No Action Program CDP- 2.4C Highway 101 Crossings. Promote public art, restoration of Irwin Creek, better lighting, and other improvements beneath the Downtown Highway 101 viaduct to better connect the east and west sides of the freeway and make the area more hospitable to pedestrians and cyclists. Consider similar improvements in North San Rafael as part of the future PDA planning process, including the Merrydale Promenade connector near the Civic Center Station. PW, CM Ongoing Program CDP- 2.5A Commercial and Industrial Beautification. Where feasible, develop and implement urban design improvements such as street trees, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping, and signage, in CDD, PW No Action 56 commercial and industrial areas through the development review process, capital improvement program, and similar means. See the Arts and Culture Element for policies on public art Program CDP- 2.6A Gateway Improvements. Evaluate each gateway shown on Figure 5-2 to develop recommendations for architecture, landscape design, public art, and signage. Prioritize the recommendations and include appropriate improvements in the City’s Capital Improvements Program. PW, CDD No Action Program CDP- 2.6B Neighborhood and District Gateways. Support landscaping, signage, and design improvements at neighborhood and business district entry points. Evaluate opportunities for gateway improvements in private development where appropriate. CDD, PW No Action Program CDP- 3.1A Activation of Public Space. Encourage activities such as farmers markets and performances in public spaces to enhance their usefulness and role as community gathering space. L&R No Action Program CDP- 3.1B Solar Access for Public Space. Explore potential sun and shading standards for select public and quasi-public spaces. CDD No Action Program CDP- 3.1C Universal Design. Incorporate the concept of universal design in the design of public space, so that persons of all physical abilities can safely and comfortably use city streets and civic places. CDD No Action Program CDP- 3.1D Alleys. Improve Downtown alleys so they become more functional, economically productive and activated public spaces. CDD, PW No Action 57 Program CDP- 3.1E North San Rafael Improvements. Encourage and incentivize the development of public art, publicly accessible plazas, and other activated spaces in new and redeveloped projects in North San Rafael, especially in the Northgate Mall/North San Rafael Town Center area. CM, CDD No Action Program CDP- 3.2A Right-of-Way Encroachments. Continue to refine City standards for encroachments into the public right of way for features such as sidewalk dining, parklets, awnings, and temporary signage. PW No Action Program CDP- 3.2B Arts Partnerships. Explore opportunities to engage the local arts community in the design of public realm improvements, including public art, painting of utility boxes, murals, and similar improvements. See the Arts and Culture Element for public art policies and the Community Services and Infrastructure Element for Green Streets policies CM Ongoing The City continues to work with the arts community to establish a public arts process by 2022-2023. Program CDP- 3.4A Landscape Stewardship. Encourage partnerships with neighborhoods and civic organizations to maintain and improve the city’s landscaped areas. PW No Action Program CDP- 3.5A Street Tree Master Plan. Develop a comprehensive citywide Street Tree Master Plan. The Plan should address street tree planting, species selection, maintenance, replacement, diversification, wood utilization, and tree waste recycling and should ensure that trees are appropriate for the planting areas where they are located. PW No Action 58 Program CDP- 3.5B Street Tree Inventory. Create an inventory of City street trees, using volunteers to the greatest extent feasible. PW No Action Program CDP- 3.5C Street Trees for New Development. Require street trees in new developments and major property upgrades. See the Community Services and Infrastructure Element for policies and programs regarding coordination with PG&E on tree maintenance and safety and Policy C-1.16 on urban forestry. PW Ongoing Program CDP- 3.5D Street Tree Maintenance. Support the long-term health of San Rafael’s urban forest through timely, quality street tree maintenance. Seek diversified funding sources for maintenance and replacement. PW Ongoing Program CDP- 3.5E Tree Replacement Due to Sidewalk Damage. Consider replacing trees that have root systems that cause sustained damage to pavement and sidewalks. See also Policies C-1.16 and C-1.17 on urban forestry and tree protection PW Ongoing Program CDP- 3.6A Downtown Wayfinding. Implement the signage recommendations in the 2018 Downtown Parking and Wayfinding Study to direct people to historic and cultural resources, public facilities, parks, shopping areas, parking, and key destinations. Consider wayfinding signage in other parts of the city, such as Northgate, the Point San Pedro area, and the Canal. Parking Services Ongoing Program CDP- 3.6B Interpretive Signage. Use interpretive signage to provide information about local history, the natural environment, and cultural resources. Parking Services Ongoing 59 Program CDP- 4.1A Design Guidelines. Maintain design guidelines for residential, non-residential, and mixed use construction. Guidelines should define the elements of good design (see text box on Page 5- 22) and encourage compatible building patterns, scale, mass, and transitions between areas. Design guidelines should be periodically updated to respond to construction trends, neighborhood feedback, and changes in the way people live, work, and travel. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 4.1B Objective Design and Development Standards. Develop and maintain objective (measurable) design standards for new higher density and mixed use housing that meet the requirements of State law and support new housing construction. These standards would be used in lieu of those referenced in Program CDP- 4.1A and apply only to proposals for multi-family and mixed use housing meeting specific State - adopted criteria. (see text box on Page 5-21) CDD Progress On July 16, 2019, a draft San Rafael Objective Design Standards was presented to the Design Review Board (DRB). City staff plans to bring another draft Objective Design Standards to the DRB in August 2022 and hope to have the Objective Design Standards adopted by late 2022. Program CDP- 4.1C Form Based Codes. Encourage the use of form based codes (FBCs) as an alternative to design guidelines and zoning standards in specific districts of the city such as Downtown. The FBC integrates design and regulatory controls to improve design quality and enhance public space. See the Safety and Resilience Element for policies on fire-safe design and construction CDD Progress The Downtown Precise Plan and Form- Based Code was adopted August 2021 and the Community Development Department implements the design recommendations and standards of the Downtown Precise Plan on an ongoing basis as new inquires and projects are received regarding projects in the Downtown Area. Program CDP- 4.2A Improving Design Review Efficiency. Continue to improve the design review process by: • Engaging stakeholders, community members, and the developer early, including consideration of written CDD Ongoing 60 comments, so that issues can be worked out before initial submittal • Clarifying requirements for initial submittals, including geotechnical, grading, and survey reports, to improve their quality • Adjusting notification procedures to encourage earlier and broader participation • Changing the project review sequence so that Planning Commission feedback is solicited before the Design Review Board • Periodically evaluating and updating the guidelines, including thresholds for design review. Program CDP- 4.2B Community Discussions of Good Design. Continue to engage the community in discussions to define “good design” and strategies to improve architecture and public space. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 4.3 A Reinforcing Design Context. Ensure that design guidelines recognize the distinct characteristics of San Rafael neighborhoods. Guidelines should ensure that new development respects the character-defining elements of neighborhoods, including height, scale, materials, and setbacks. CDD No Action Program CDP- 4.3B Successful Design Portfolio . Establish a portfolio of existing buildings and projects illustrating successful design and make it available on the City’s website. CDD No Action Program CDP- 4.3C Exceptions. Allow variation from design guidelines and standards for exceptional buildings that contribute public benefits and make a significant contribution to their surroundings. CDD No Action 61 See also Housing Policy H-2 Program CDP- 4.6A On-Site Recreational Areas. Continue requirements for on-site recreational areas as specified in the zoning ordinance. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 4.7A Signature Buildings. Allow for “signature” buildings that create a positive impression of San Rafael. Memorable, innovative architecture should be encouraged through the placement of building forms and features, selection of materials, and unique treatment of corner sites, and similar measures. Innovative climate-adaptive measur es such as vertical gardens, roof-gardens, living building design and onsite water reuse also should be encouraged. CDD No Action Program CDP- 4.8A Building Stepbacks. Use tools such as stepbacks and daylight planes to improve height transitions where taller buildings are constructed near lower-scale buildings. The perceived height and bulk of new buildings can be reduced through measures such as stepping back the upper floors, articulating the building elevation, and using varied exterior building materials and colors. CDD Ongoing Ongoing when not pre-empted by SB 330. Program CDP- 4.10A Zoning Regulations. Periodically evaluate the landscape provisions in the Zoning Ordinance to respond to climate change, hazards, water availability, shading needs, and other issues. Zoning should support the City’s goal of having a strongly landscaped character. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 4.10B Industrial Landscape Design. Ensure that landscape guidelines for new industrial and general commercial development provide effective buffering, while also supporting water conservation, water quality, and fire hazard reduction goals. CDD, PW Ongoing 62 Program CDP- 4.10C Parking Lot Landscaping Requirements. Review City standards for parking lot landscaping to ensure that they adequately address visual screening, environmental quality, and climate-related issues. Standards should allow for solar shade structures within parking areas. CDD No Action Program CDP- 4.11A Lighting Plans. Continue to require lighting plans for projects proposing exterior lighting. The design review process should be used to evaluate lighting for safety, consistency with dark sky objectives, and potential mitigation to reduce negative impacts on nearby properties. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 4.12A Sign Regulations. Periodically update the City’s sign regulations to reflect new technologies, materials, and design trends, and to ensure that regulations comply with all applicable state and federal laws. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.1A Preservation Ordinance. Continue to implement the City’s Historic Preservation Ordinance. The Ordinance should be modified to include updated procedures to mitigate impacts from the demolition, destruction, or alteration of historic resources. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 5.1B Oversight Responsibilities. Create a more formal means of oversight for review of planning and building applications affecting historic resources. This could include a contract with an architectural historian, or an advisory committee convened as needed to advise the Planning Commission on matters and policies related to preservation or the modification of historic structures. If an oversight body is created, it should represent diverse perspectives and interests. CDD No Action 63 Program CDP- 5.1C Certified Local Government (CLG) Designation. Contact the National Park Service State Office and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to evaluate the pros and cons of San Rafael becoming a designated CLG. The designation allows for streamlining, greater local control over preservation decisions, funding opportunities, and technical assistance. CM No Action Program CDP- 5.2A Context Statement. Prepare a citywide historic context statement to provide the framework for evaluating a property’s historic significance and integrity. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.2B Inventory Update. Regularly update the City’s Historical/Architecture Survey, which is an inventory of buildings of architectural value, historic buildings and/or districts and historic elements such as signs, monuments, and gates. A priority should be placed on neighborhoods with large concentrations of older structures, as well as areas most likely to experience development pressure in the future. CDD Progress A survey of the properties in Downtown was done for the Precise Plan, but there has been no official update to the inventory. Program CDP- 5.2C Criteria for Designation. Review and adjust the criteria for designation of historic resources so they align with those of state and federal preservation agencies. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.2D Additional Landmarking. Based on updated historic preservation data, identify additional structures or sites for local and/or state landmark status and/or potential nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. The process for local landmark designation, including applications, fees, and approval, should be updated and clarified. CDD No Action 64 Program CDP- 5.3A Downtown Districts. Consider the designation of additional historic districts in Downtown San Rafael based on the 2019 Downtown Precise Plan field survey. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.3B Conservation Districts. Consider the use of Conservation Districts as an alternative to historic districts or the designation of individual landmarks (see text box). CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.3C Mid-Century Neighborhoods. Recognize the Eichler, Kenney, and Alliance subdivisions of North San Rafael as a defining part of San Rafael’s architectural heritage. Continue to take steps to preserve the characteristic features of these homes and neighborhoods, including height and roofline modifications. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 5.4A Zoning and Development Incentives. Support the use of transfer of development rights and façade easements to encourage preservation of historic buildings. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.4B Local Financial Incentives. Pursue the following financial incentives to support historic preservation activities: a) Development of a local Mills Act program to allow contracts with the owners of historic properties meeting criteria to be defined by the City. The contracts allow for reduced property taxes in exchange for an agreement to maintain the historic integrity and visibility of the structure. b) Reductions or waivers of local permitting fees for qualifying historic preservation projects. c) Creation of a historic preservation mitigation fund for developments that may impact historic resources, with the CDD No Action 65 proceeds used to support preservation activities. d) Arrangements with the commercial brokerage community to bank and transfer development rights from historic properties to receiving sites (not yet identified) e) Establishment of a nonprofit trust whose function is to restore, maintain, and lease publicly owned historic buildings (such as Falkirk Mansion and the Boyd Gatehouse). Program CDP- 5.4C Non-Local Financial Incentives. Support financial assistance for preservation through state and federal grants and loans, tax credits, National Trust Preservation funds, the Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program, and similar programs. CM, ED No Action Program CDP- 5.5A California Historic Building Code. Use the State historic building code to relieve historic buildings from modern code requirements, thus making it easier to reuse the building. Explore other incentivizes or code changes that allow interior spaces in older buildings to be more easily and affordably updated. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.5B Zoning. Investigate zoning exceptions for historic structures, such as reduced on -site parking, setback, and driveway width requirements. The range of permitted or conditionally permitted uses in historic structures should be expanded to make them more viable for reuse. CDD No Action Program CD- 5.6A Certificates of Appropriateness. Continue existing requirements for “Certificates of Appropriateness” (COA) for alterations to designated historic resources. Criteria for COAs CDD Ongoing 66 should be consistent with Secretary of the Interior standards. Program CDP- 5.6B Design Guidelines. Address historic preservation in the City’s design guidelines, including successful examples of (a) adaptive reuse, alterations, and other changes; and (b) new infill development in the context of an older neighborhood, including examples of contemporary architecture. Infill development in older areas does not need to mimic historic development but should acknowledge and respect its context. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.6C Landscapes and Natural Features. Consider landscapes, gardens, mature trees, and natural features as contextually relevant when defining historic value. Encourage the preservation of such features when they are determined to be significant. CDD, PW Ongoing. Program CDP- 5.7A Incentives. Support property owner efforts to maintain and restore historic properties through fee reductions, tax credits, and Code exceptions. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.8A Public Recognition. Support programs that publicly recognize property owners who have done an exceptional job preserving an historic property CM No Action Program CDP- 5.8C Public Events and Social Media. Encourage local preservation advocacy organizations to produce events, publications, social media, and exhibits about the historic resources that exist in San Rafael. CM No Action Program CDP- 5.9A Preservation Reference Materials. Support the efforts of local organizations to maintain and expand collections of historic photographs, CM Ongoing 67 artifacts, books, media, oral histories, and other resources, and to make these materials available through on-line archives. Program CDP- 5.9B Plaques and Markers. Support efforts to install plaques and markers recognizing historic locations and the locations of important historic events in San Rafael. CM Ongoing Program CDP- 5.9C School Programs. Support local school efforts to incorporate San Rafael history lessons, events, and field trips into their curriculum and programs. CM No Action Program CDP- 5.10A Walking Tours, Trails, and Historic Festivals. Encourage walking tours, historic trails, mobile apps, and history fairs and programs that attract visitors. Partner with local preservation advocacy groups and other organizations to promote events celebrating San Rafael history. CM No Action Program CDP- 5.10B Marin County Civic Center. Work with the County of Marin to encourage and support preservation of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Civic Center complex and grounds as a nationally important historic architectural site and major destination for regional, national, and international visitors. CM No Action Program CDP- 5.10C Mission San Rafael. Promote San Rafael’s historic origin as a “mission city,” and Mission San Rafael Arcangel as a destination of historic interest. See also Policy EV-3.3 on authenticity as an economic development strategy CM, ED No Action 68 Program CDP- 5.11A Energy Retrofits. Encourage the use of energy efficiency incentives to assist in the rehabilitation of older buildings, keeping in mind the importance of maintaining historic integrity. CM (Sustainability), ED No Action Program CDP- 5.12A Community Heritage Programming. Engage representatives of the different ethnic communities, as well as preservation organizations and San Rafael schools, universities, and colleges to document and preserve the history of each community in San Rafael, including sites and structures of historic importance. Support educational curriculum that raises awareness of the city’s cultural heritage and includes non-Eurocentric perspectives. CM No Action Program CDP- 5.13A Archeological Resources Ordinance. Modify the City’s Archeological Resources Ordinance to include construction best management practices to follow if a potentially significant archaeological resources is encountered during ground disturbing activities. CDD, City Attorney No Action Program CDP- 5.13B Human Remains. When permitting ground- disturbing activities, require that any human remains encountered are treated in accordance with California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5, Public Resources Code 5097.98, and the California Code of Regulations Section 15064(e), which prescribe the mandated procedures of conduct in such cases. CDD No Action Program CDP- 5.14A AB 52 Compliance. Implement the requirements of Assembly Bill 52 by providing opportunities for meaningful input from Native American representatives in the development review process. CDD Ongoing 69 Program CDP- 5.14B Protection of Tribal Resources. Incorporate standard approval conditions in future development projects that ensure that Native American resources are protected during construction. In the event tribal resources are discovered, earth-disturbing work must be temporarily suspended pending evaluation by a qualified archaeologist and an appropriate Native American representative. Where appropriate, a mitigation plan shall be developed in accordance with state guidelines and tribal input. CDD Ongoing Program CDP- 5.15A Paleontological Resource Mitigation Protocol. Prepare and adopt a list of protocols in accordance with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology standards that protect or mitigate impacts to paleontological resources, including requiring grading and construction projects to cease activity when a paleontological resource is discovered so it can be safely removed. CDD No Action CONSERVATION AND CLIMATE CHANGE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Conservation and Climate Change Element in attainment of San Rafael’s conservation and climate change goals: • Goal C-1: Supporting Our Natural Communities • Goal C-4: Sustainable Energy Management • Goal C-2: Clean Air • Goal C-5: Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions • Goal C-3: Clean Water PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program C-1.1A Surveys for Regulated Waters. Require that sites with suitable natural habitat be surveyed for the presence or absence of regulated waters prior to development approval. Such surveys should be conducted by a qualified wetland specialist and occu prior to development-related vegetation removal or other habitat modifications. CDD, PW No Action Program C-1.1B Wetlands Overlay District. Continue to implement wetlands policy through a Wetlands Overlay zoning CDD, PW Ongoing 70 district that is based on wetland delineations consistent with US Army Corps of Engineers criteria. In unincorporated areas within the Planning Area, support County implementation of Baylands Corridor policies and standards. Program C-1.1C Tiscornia Marsh Restoration. Support restoration plans for Tiscornia Marsh adjacent to Pickleweed Park in the Canal neighborhood. The project will raise and improve a degraded levee to stabilize and potentially restore an eroding tidal marsh, reducing the community’s vulnerability to rising tides and flooding. PW No Action Program C-1.1D McInnis Marsh Restoration. Support restoration plans for McInnis Marsh, providing improved habitat for protected species, flood protection for McInnis Park golf course, and improved trail connections along the San Pablo Bay Shoreline. PW Ongoing Program C-1.3A Compensatory Mitigation Requirements. For permanently impacted wetlands, lost wetland area shall be replaced on-site and in-kind at a minimum ratio of 2:1 (e.g., 2 acres for each acre lost). If on- site mitigation is not possible or practical, off-site mitigation shall be required, preferably in the same drainage basin or a nearby Marin watershed if the same basin is not available, at a minimum replacement ratio of 3:1. Temporarily impacted wetlands may be restored and revegetated to pre- project conditions. PW No Action Program C-1.3B Conditions for Mitigation Waivers. The City may waive the compensatory mitigation requirement on a case by case basis for wetlands restoration projects and for fill of wetlands that are less than 0.1 acres in size, provided that all of the following conditions are met: (1) the wetland is isolated (e.g., it is not within, part of, or directly connected or PW No Action 71 hydrologically linked by natural flow to a creek, drainageway, wetland, or submerged tidelands); (2) it is demonstrated by an independent wetland expert that preservation would not result in a functioning, biological resource; (3) the City has determined that filling would result in a more appropriate and desirable site plan for the project; and (4) the City verifies that applicants have received all required permits and complied with all other mitigation requirements from resource agencies with wetland oversight.2 Program C-1.3C Revision of Mitigation and Waiver Requirements. Consider revisions to mitigation requirements and waiver conditions that reflect best practices, sea level rise adaptation needs, and consistency with the requirements used by state and federal agencies. PW No Action Program C-1.4A Wetland Plans and Monitoring. Wetland plans shall be prepared by a qualified wetland restoration ecologist in consultation with appropriate federal and state resource agencies. Such plans shall require annual monitoring for a specified period of time to determine mitigation success. Contingency measures to deal with the potential for lack of success should be included in the plan. PW No Action Program C-1.4B Timing of Wetlands Creation. Restoration or creation of wetlands should be completed prior to construction of the development. Where construction activities would adversely impact wetland restoration or creation, the restoration or creation may be completed after construction of the development, as determined through development review. PW No Action 72 Program C-1.4C Mitigation Banking. Support the creation of wetland mitigation banking sites within the city. This would allow the collection of mitigation fees from multiple projects to be combined to construct or restore larger, more viable wetlands in designated locations rather than constructing small compensatory wetlands on or near each development site. This could include an inventory of priority restoration areas for future projects that may require compensatory off-site mitigation. PW No Action Program C-1.6A Creek and Drainageway Setbacks: Maintain the following setback requirements in the Municipal Code: (a) A minimum 25-foot development-free setback shall be maintained from the top of creek banks for all new development (including but not limited to paving and structures), except for Miller Creek and its tributaries, where a minimum 50-foot setback shall be maintained. Setbacks up to 100 feet may be required in development projects larger than two acres where development review determines that a wider setback is needed to maintain habitat values, and in areas where high-quality riparian habitat exists. The City may waive the setback requirement for minor encroachments if it can be demonstrated that the proposed setback adequately protects the functions of the creek to the maximum extent feasible and the results are acceptable to appropriate regulatory agencies. (b) Drainageway Setbacks: Drainageway setbacks shall be established through individual development review, taking into PW No Action 73 account existing habitat function and values. Program C-1.6B Municipal Code Compliance. Ensure that the San Rafael Municipal Code is consistent with local, state, and federal regulatory agency requirements for erosion control and natural resource management and is amended as needed when these regulations change. Local public works activities shall comply with the Municipal Code. PW No Action Program C-1.6C Creek and Drainageway Mapping. Work collaboratively with local environmental organizations and institutions to prepare updated maps of creeks and drainageways and to evaluate the potential for restoration. PW No Action Program C-1.7A Creek Access on Public Land. Proactively identify and create access points to creeks on public lands. PW No Action Program C-1.7B Public Access in Development Along Creeks. Use the development review process to identify and secure areas appropriate for creek access. PW No Action Program C-1.8A Publicity. Use the City’s website to publicize information about creek and waterway protection and access. Where appropriate, partner with local schools, conservation and environmental groups, business organizations, and others to increase awareness of the city’s creeks and waterways. PW Ongoing Program C-1.8B Creek Signage. Develop attractive signage and/or educational displays identifying local creeks, describing native habitat and history, and reminding visitors of what they can do to protect water quality. PW No Action 74 See also Policy PROS-3.10 on environmental education and Program C-3.6A on removal of plastics from creeks, marshes, and the Bay Program C-1.9A Watercourse Protection Regulations. Maintain watercourse protection regulations in the San Rafael Municipal Code. These regulations should be periodically revisited to ensure that they adequately protect creeks and drainageways. Consider specific measures or guidelines to mitigate the destruction or damage of riparian habitat from roads, development, and other encroachments. PW No Action Program C-1.9B Creek Restoration. Encourage and support efforts by neighborhood associations, environmental organizations, and other interested groups to fund creek enhancement, restoration, and daylighting projects, as well as creek clean- ups and ongoing maintenance programs. PW No Action Program C-1.9C Upper Gallinas Watershed Restoration. Support implementation of creek restoration projects in the Upper Gallinas Creek Watershed, consistent with the Restoration Opportunities Report prepared in December 2016. It remains a priority of the City to restore the creek by removing the concrete channel, creating a walkway/bikeway alongside, and planting native trees to provide shade and filter runoff. Pursue grants and other funds, including capital improvement projects and general operating funds, to restore natural creek conditions and native vegetation. PW No Action Program C-1.9D Restoration of San Rafael, Mahon, and Irwin Creeks. Pursue opportunities for creek PW No Action 75 restoration and beautification along San Rafael, Mahon, and Irwin Creeks, building on past efforts supporting biological and ecological restoration, education, and water quality improvements along these waterways. See Goal C-3 for additional policies on water quality Program C- 1.10A Hillside Management and Residential Design Guidelines. Continue to implement Hillside Residential Design Guidelines as well as management practices that promote ecological health, hazard reduction, and climate change mitigation. CDD, PW Ongoing Program C- 1.11A Surveys for Wildlife Movement Corridors. Require that sites with suitable natural or anthropogenic habitat, including creeks in urban areas, be surveyed for the presence or absence of important wildlife corridors, prior to development approval. Such surveys should be conducted by a qualified biologist following CDFG-accepted species-level protocol and occur prior to development-related vegetation removal or other habitat modifications. As resources allow, surveys also should be conducted in previously developed areas to establish conservation priorities, and support wildlife and ecosystem management and education programs. PW No Action Program C- 1.11B Wildlife-Human Interface. Implement programs to reduce conflicts and improve co-existence between people and wildlife, including education about animals living around us and the need to modify certain human behaviors. CM (Sustainability) No Action 76 Program C- 1.12A Surveys for Sensitive Natural Communities and Special Status Species. Require that sites with suitable natural or anthropogenic habitat, including creek corridors through urbanized areas, be surveyed for the presence or absence of sensitive natural communities and special status species prior to development approval. Such surveys should be conducted by a qualified biologist following CDFG-accepted species-level protocol and occur prior to development-related habitat removal or other habitat modifications. PW No Action Program C- 1.12B Non-Native Predators. Support efforts by non- profit conservation groups, state and federal agencies, the Marin Humane Society and other organizations to protect the habitat of birds and small mammals from non -native predators and restricting the use of pesticides. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C- 1.12C Oak Savanna and Oak Woodland Habitat Protection. Require proposed developments with the potential to impact oak savanna/oak woodland habitat to either avoid, minimize, or compensate for the loss of such habitat. Avoidance is the preferred measure where feasible. If habitat loss is deemed unavoidable, require that direct and indirect impacts be mitigated through habitat restoration, creation, or enhancement. Mitigation requirements shall provide for a minimum 1:1 replacement in both the aerial extent of the tree canopy and number of trees lost. See also Policy C-3.6 on the conservation of nearshore waters, including the Canal and San Francisco Bay. CDD, PW No Action Program C- 1.13A List of Species. Maintain current California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB) digital (GIS) CM (Sustainability) No Action 77 maps and data tables listing threatened, endangered, and special status species in the San Rafael Planning Area. CNDDB data should be supplemented with more specific local data wherever possible. Program C- 1.13B Mitigating Impacts on Special Status Species. Avoid and protect special status species and require that consultation with resource agencies be performed in conformance with federal and State regulations. Require that potential unavoidable impacts to special status species are minimized through design, construction, and project operations. If such measures cannot adequately mitigate impacts, require measures such as on-site set asides, off-site acquisitions (conservation easements, deed restrictions, etc.), and specific restoration efforts that benefit the listed species being impacted. CDD, PW No Action Program C- 1.13C Steelhead Habitat. Support efforts to restore, preserve or enhance Central California Coast Steelhead habitat in Miller Creek and other creeks. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C- 1.13D Bird Safe Design. Develop and adopt a Bird-Safe Design Ordinance to provide specific criteria and best management practices to be used in design review for taller structures. These criteria should be applied to ensure that such structures are designed to minimize the risk of bird collisions. CDD No Action Program C- 1.13E Avoidance of Nesting Birds. Nests of native birds in active use shall be avoided in compliance with State and federal regulations. For new development sites where nesting birds may be present, vegetation clearing and construction shall be initiated outside the bird nesting season (February 1 through August 31) or pre- CDD No Action 78 construction surveys shall be conducted by a qualified biologist within a minimum of 500 feet from the project site where access is feasible and no more than seven days prior to any disturbance. If active nests are encountered, appropriate work avoidance buffer zones shall be established based on recommendations by the biologist and remain in place until any young birds have successfully left the nest and are no longer dependent on parental care. See also Programs C-1.11.A and C-1.12A on wildlife surveys Program C- 1.14A Identification of Desirable and Undesirable Species. Use California Invasive Plant Council (Cal- IPC) guidance for desirable and invasive plants in the development review, design review, and public lands management processes. This guidance should ensure that noxious plants are not planted in new development, on rights of way, and on public land; help inform revegetation and replanting programs; and support the management of existing vegetation. CDD No Action Program C- 1.14B Integrated Pest Management Policy. Maintain and periodically update an Integrated Pest Management Policy (IPMP) that minimizes the application of pesticides in the city and encourages non-toxic methods to control vegetation such as properly timed goat grazing. The IPMP should be modified as needed to reflect changes in regional stormwater control requirements, data on pesticide toxicity, and the feasibility of new and less toxic methods for controlling invasive plants. Changes to the IPMP should be made through a transparent public process and should ensure that the use of any chemicals of concern is publicly noticed. PW Ongoing 79 Program C- 1.14C Removal of Invasive Species. Support partnerships and multi-jurisdictional efforts to remove invasive plant species, reduce fire hazards, and improve habitat on public properties. Use volunteers and non-profit organizations to assist in such efforts and consult with the California Native Plant Society and similar organizations to optimize results, avoid the removal of desirable plants, and replant with appropriate plants before invasive species return. Funding from sources such as Measure A, state and regional wildfire prevention funds, utility funds, and other conservation program funds should be pursued to support these efforts. FIRE Ongoing Staff continued to support multiple broom pull events monthly and are planning larger scale projects for specific species thanks to measure C funding. Program C- 1.14D Wildfire Action Plan Implementation. Implement the provisions of San Rafael’s Wildfire Action Plan (2020) relating to the control of invasive plants, including further limiting the sale or planting of highly flammable non-native plants in the city, supporting volunteer activities to remove Scotch and French broom, revising standards for Eucalyptus, providing fuel breaks on public property, and educating the public on fire-safe landscaping. FIRE Ongoing Staff continued to provide regular updates on specific action items to City Council. Staff continued to work to achieve compliance with updated citywide vegetation standards as outlined in SRMC 4.12. Multiple open space projects and evacuation improvements have been completed with additional work planned. Program C- 1.15A Education on Desirable Plant Species. Leverage the educational and website materials on “water-wise” plants developed by the Marin Municipal Water District and fire -prone plants from FireSafe Marin as resources for San Rafael property owners. The City should also create Resilient Landscape Templates (RLTs) that offer suggestions for homeowners to achieve beautiful, fire-resistant, drought tolerant landscaping. FIRE No Action Ongoing- annual mailers sent to each resident regarding fire adapted landscaping. Ongoing partnership with FireSafe Marin and the MWPA to further resident education. Demonstration Garden will be installed this Fall. Program C- 1.16A Increasing the Tree Canopy. Implement measures to increase the tree canopy, as outlined CDD, PW No Action 80 in the City’s Climate Change Action Plan. These measures include: a) tree planting on City-owned land b) reviewing parking lot landscaping standards to maximize tree cover c) minimizing tree removal d) controlling invasive species that threaten the health of the urban forest e) integrating trees and natural features into the design of development projects f) encouraging trees on private property g) increasing the diversity of trees to increase habitat value and resilience h) emphasizing the use of native tree species, where appropriate, given their adaptability to local conditions and increased importance to native wildlife. Program C- 1.16B Tree City USA. Maintain San Rafael’s status as a “Tree City USA” community by following best practices in urban forestry management and regularly applying for recertification. PW No Action Program C- 1.17A Tree Preservation. Revise Chapter 11.12 of the Municipal Code (Trees) or add a new Code section that defines protected and heritage trees and establishes permit requirements and procedures for tree protection, removal, and replacement. The regulations should strongly support the protection of California redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) and other native trees. PW No Action Program C- 1.17B Tree Management Plan: Require a tree management plan prior to approval of development with the potential to remove or substantially impact trees. The Plan should be prepared by a licensed arborist using published standards and practices for protecting and PW No Action 81 monitoring tree health during and after construction. Program C- 1.17C Mitigation for Tree Removal. Continue to implement mitigation requirements for tree removal in new development. When necessary, this could include planting of trees in locations other than the project site, planting native trees in lieu of non-natives, or reducing the footprint of proposed development. Tree replacement should be based on a value that is equal to or greater than the carbon footprint and ecological benefits of the trees being removed. Ecological benefits include water conservation, absorption of runoff, reduction of air pollution, energy reduction from shade and cooling effects, soil retention, slope stabilization, and wildlife support. See Policy CDP-3.5 and Program CDP-3.5A for additional guidance on street trees, including a proposed Street Tree Master Plan PW Ongoing Program C- 1.19A Dark Sky Ordinance. Adopt a dark sky ordinance, including lighting standards and enforcement provisions that reduce light pollution. In the interim, refer to guidelines from the International Dark Sky Association during the review of major projects involving night lighting. CDD No Action Program C-2.1A Cooperation with Other Agencies. Work with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) and other agencies to ensure compliance with air quality regulations and proactively address air quality issues. CDD, PW, FIRE Ongoing FIRE will continue to ensure that any prescriptive bu rning will fully comply with BAAMQD regulations. Program C-2.2A Protection of Sensitive Receptors. Use the development review process to require an evaluation of air quality impacts and the inclusion of measures to mitigate the exposure of sensitive receptors to both construction-related and long- CDD, PW No Action 82 term operational impacts. As prescribed by the EIR for General Plan 2040 and the Downtown Precise Plan, the following protocols shall be followed: a) Projects that exceed BAAQMD screening criteria shall be required to evaluate project-specific construction emissions and operational emissions in conformance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines and BAAQMD methodologies. If projected pollutant levels for either construction or operations exceed BAAQMD thresholds, project applicants shall be required to mitigate the impacts to an acceptable level. b) As recommended by the California Air Resources Board, projects that would result in construction activities within 1,000 feet of residential and other land uses that are sensitive to toxic air contaminants (e.g., hospitals, nursing homes, day care centers, etc.), as measured from the property line of the project, shall be required to prepare a construction health risk assessment in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) and the BAAQMD CEQA Guidelines. These Guidelines identify mitigation measures capable of reducing potential cancer and non-cancer risks to a level below ten in one million or a hazard index of 1.0. c) Applicants for industrial or warehousing land uses or commercial land uses that would generate substantial diesel truck travel (i.e., 100 diesel trucks per day or 40 or more trucks with diesel-powered 83 transport refrigeration units per day) shall contact BAAQMD to determine the appropriate level of operational health risk assessment (HRA) required. If required, the HRA shall be prepared in accordance with OEHHA and BAAQMD requirements and impacts shall be mitigated to an acceptable level. Program C-2.3A Air Pollution Reduction Measures. Implement air pollution reduction measures as recommended by BAAQMD’s Clean Air Plan and supporting documents to address local sources of air pollution in community planning. This should include Transportation Control Measures (TCM) and Transportation Demand Management (TDM) programs to reduce emissions associated with diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles. PW No Action Program C-2.4A Particulate Matter Exposure. Through development review, require that Best Available Control Technology (BACT) measures (such as setbacks, landscaping, paving, soil and dust management, and parking lot street sweeping) are used to protect sensitive receptors from particulate matter. This should include control of construction-related dust and truck emissions as well as long-term impacts associated with project operations. Where appropriate, health risk assessments may be required to evaluate risks and determine appropriate mitigation measures. FIRE No Action Program C-2.4B Wildfire Smoke. Support efforts to reduce health hazards from wildfire smoke, such as limits on outdoor activities, access to respirators and air filtration systems, access to clean air refuge centers, and public education. FIRE Ongoing Staff continued to provide public education and engaged in city planning efforts for clean air centers. 84 Program C-2.4C Wood-Burning Stoves and Fireplaces. Regulate wood-burning stoves and fireplaces to reduce particulate pollution. CDD Ongoing Program C-2.6A Air Quality Education Programs. Actively participate in the air quality education programs of the BAAQMD. Use social media and other means of outreach to alert residents of Spare the Air days and associated recommendations. FIRE No Action Program C-2.6B Equipment and Generators. Encourage the use of non-gasoline powered leaf blowers and other yard maintenance equipment, as well as clean- powered generators. CM (Sustainability) Progress The City Manager’s Office is working on a Leaf Blower Ordinance which would ban the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. Program C-3.1A Interagency Coordination. Coordinate with the local, state, and federal agencies responsible for permitting discharges to San Rafael’s creeks and surface waters, monitoring water quality, and enforcing adopted water quality standards and laws. PW No Action Program C-3.2A Countywide Stormwater Program. Continue to participate in the countywide stormwater pollution prevention program and comply with its performance standards. PW Ongoing Program C-3.2B Reducing Pollutants in Runoff. Continue to reduce the discharge of harmful materials to the storm drainage system through inspections, enforcement programs, reduced use of toxic materials, and public education. PW Ongoing Program C-3.2C Construction Impacts. Continue to incorporate measures for stormwater runoff control, management, and inspections in construction projects and require contractors to comply with accepted pollution prevention planning practices. Provisions for post-construction PW Ongoing 85 stormwater management also should be included. Program C-3.2D System Improvements. Improve storm drainage performance through regular maintenance and clean-out of catch basins, a City street sweeping program, and prioritizing Trash Reduction Implementation Plan measures, including installation of trash capture devices, . When existing drainage lines are replaced, design changes should be made as needed to increase capacity to handle intensifying storms and expected sea level rise impacts. PW No Action Program C-3.2E Pesticide and Fertilizer Management. On City property, reduce or eliminate the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers. Ensure that the application of pestic ides follows all applicable rules and regulations and is performed through a transparent process in which the public receives early notification. PW No Action Program C-3.2F Monitoring. Support ongoing water quality testing in San Rafael’s creeks and waterways to evaluate the effectiveness of existing programs and determine where additional pollution control measures may be needed. PW Ongoing Program C-3.3A Development Review. Provide guidance to developers, contractors and builders on the use of rain gardens, bioswales and bioretention facilities, permeable pavers, grass parking lots, and other measures to absorb stormwater and reduce runoff rates and volumes. PW Ongoing Program C-3.3B Non-Traditional Gardens. Evaluate best practices in the use of roof gardens, vertical gardens/green walls, pollinator gardens and other measures that increase the City’s capacity to PW No Action 86 sequester carbon, plant trees, and enhance environmental quality. Encourage the incorporation of such features in new development. Program C-3.4A Green Streets Planning. Develop a Green Streets Plan that includes policy guidance, tools, analytics, and funding mechanisms to create more sustainably designed street and storm drainage systems. Street and drainage system improvements should support City conservation and climate change goals. PW No Action Program C-3.4B Funding. Identify and apply for grants and federal, state, and regional funds to upgrade stormwater facilities, rehabilitate roads, and implement other Green Streets initiatives. PW Ongoing Program C-3.5A Underground Tank Remediation Continue efforts to remediate underground storage tanks and related groundwater hazards. Avoid siting new tanks in areas where they may pose hazards, including areas prone to sea level rise. PW Ongoing Program C-3.6A Water Quality Improvements. Collaborate with the Bay Conservation and Development Commission, State and Regional Water Quality Control Boards, and other agencies to support water quality improvement efforts and the removal of plastics and other trash from the Canal and Bay. Seek funding from organizations such as the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority for projects that reduce urban runoff. PW No Action Program C-3.6B Boat Sanitation and Enforcement. Require consistent enforcement and inspection of sanitation facilities in boats berthed in the San Sanitation No Action 87 Rafael Canal and elsewhere in Bay waters within the City limits. Program C-3.6C Sewage Pump Out Facilities. Support marina owners in providing on-site sewage pump-out facilities. Require marinas to install such facilities when improvements are made. Sanitation No Action Program C-3.6D Education of Boaters. Educate boaters about good sanitation practices and measures to reduce invasive species with the potential to harm marine and freshwater life. Sanitation Ongoing Program C-3.7A Stenciling of Storm Drains. Continue to stencil storm drains and use other forms of signage and art so that people understand the consequences of pollutant runoff and its impacts on the Bay. PW Ongoing Program C-3.7B Outreach. Support and participate in efforts by the Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program to raise awareness of the effects of water pollution and ways the public can help improve water quality. PW No Action Program C-3.7C Car Wash Facilities. Require the use of recycled water at new commercial car washing facilities. CDD, PW No Action Program C-3.8A Water Conservation Programs. Work with Marin Municipal Water District and other organizations to promote water conservation programs and incentives and ensure compliance with state and MMWD regulations, including the provisions of the Urban Water Management Plan (see Policy CSI- 4.8 for additional guidance). PW Ongoing Program C-3.8B Public Education. Continue and expand programs to educate residents and businesses about the benefits of water conservation and PW Ongoing 88 requirements for plumbing fixtures and landscaping. Program C-3.8C Reclaimed Water Use. Support the extension of recycled water distribution infrastructure by Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary and MMWD, along with programs to make the use of recycled water more feasible (see Policy CSI-4.12 for additional guidance). PW No Action Program C-3.8D Graywater and Rainwater. Encourage the installation of graywater and rainwater collection systems. Explore revisions to building codes that would facilitate such projects where obstacles currently exist. PW, CDD No Action Program C-3.8E Reducing Municipal Water Use. Reduce water use for municipal operations through water- efficient landscaping, maintenance of irrigation equipment, replacement of inefficient plumbing fixtures, and using recycled water where available and practical. PW No Action Program C-3.9A Demonstration Gardens. Maintain the Falkirk demonstration gardens illustrating xeriscaping principles and drought-tolerant plant materials. PW No Action Program C-4.1A Marin Clean Energy Targets. Support Marin Clean Energy (MCE) efforts to reach the goal of providing energy that is 100 percent GHG free by 2025. PW No Action Program C-4.1B PACE Financing. Participate in a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing program to fund installation of renewable energy systems, energy efficiency upgrades to existing buildings, and other improvements such as electric vehicle chargers and battery storage. Consider other funding sources to improve local energy generation and storage. PW No Action 89 Program C-4.1C Regulatory Barriers. Continue efforts to remove regulatory barriers and provide creative incentives for solar energy installations, such as rooftop solar systems and parking lot canopies. The installation of renewable energy systems that are consistent with the Climate Change Action Plan should be encouraged and accelerated. CDD Ongoing Program C-4.1D Reducing Natural Gas Use. Pending further financial analysis and community input, implement electrification of building systems and appliances in new buildings and those that currently use natural gas. This should be achieved by requiring new or replacement furnaces and appliances to be electric and utilize fossil free energy. PW No Action Program C-4.1E Municipal Buildings. Wherever feasible, incorporate renewable energy technology such as solar, cogeneration, and fuel cells, in the construction or retrofitting of City facilities. Continue use of MCE Deep Green (100% renewable) power. PW Ongoing Program C-4.2A Energy Efficiency Outreach. Continue to inform businesses and residents of programs and rebates to conserve energy and weatherize their homes. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C-4.2B Green Building Standards. Implement State green building and energy efficiency standards for remodeling projects and new construction. Consider additional measures to incentivize green building practices, low carbon concrete, and sustainable design. CDD No Action Program C-4.2C Energy Efficiency Incentives. Provide financial incentives, technical assistance, streamlined permitting processes, and partnerships to CDD, CM (Sustainability) No Action 90 encourage energy-efficiency upgrades in new and existing buildings. Typical improvements include the use of energy-efficient windows, lighting, and appliances, induction and convection cooking, insulation of roofs and exterior walls, higher- efficiency heating and air conditioning (including electrical heat pump systems), and other projects that lower electricity and natural gas consumption. Program C-4.2D Time-of-Sale Energy Audits. Consider requiring energy audits for residential and commercial buildings prior to property sales, including identification of cost savings from energy efficiency measures and potential rebates and financing options. An energy audit is a property inspection that identifies opportunities to improve energy efficiency. CDD No Action Program C-4.2E Cool Roofs and Pavement. Encourage the use of materials that minimize heat gain on outdoor surfaces such as parking lots, roadways, roofs and sidewalks. CDD No Action Program C-4.3A Innovative Technologies. Apply innovative technologies such as micro-grids, battery storage, and demand response programs that improve the electric grid’s resilience and meet demand during high use periods. Encourage emergency battery back-up for power outages in lieu of generators. See also Policy CSI -4.13 on energy infrastructure PW Ongoing. The City added battery backup units at several locations and continues to add with reconstruction projects. Program C-4.4A Use of Alternative Building Materials. Evaluate opportunities to amend the City’s building codes and zoning ordinances to allow the use of acceptable resource-efficient alternative building materials and methods. CDD No Action 91 Program C-4.5A Solar Site Planning. Use the development review process to: a) Encourage opportunities for passive solar building design and the use of photo- voltaic materials and devices. b) Review proposed site design for energy efficiency, such as shading of parking lots and summertime shading of south-facing windows. CDD No Action Program C-4.5B Solar Access Ordinance. Consider developing a solar access ordinance to protect solar access rights and prevent restrictions on solar energy systems. The ordinance should address potential impacts related to development or modification of existing structures on neighboring properties. CDD No Action Program C-5.1A CCAP Updates. Conduct complete updates of the CCAP at least once every 10 years, adjusting programs to achieve updated GHG goals. These goals should align with those adopted by Drawdown Marin, including reductions of 40% below 1990 levels by 2030, 60% below 2005 levels by 2040, and levels conforming to Executive Orders S-03-05 and B-55-18 by 2050. More aggressive goals may be adopted. CM (Sustainability) On May 6, 2019, City Council adopted a resolution adopting the San Rafael Climate Change Action Plan 2030. On May 6, 2019, City Council adopted a resolution adopting the San Rafael Climate Change Action Plan 2030. Program C-5.1B Progress Reports. Prepare annual CCAP progress reports, including a list of priority actions. Local climate goals should align with regional goals, including those set through Drawdown Marin. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C-5.1C Quarterly Forum. Continue to hold the CCAP Quarterly Forum, which provides oversight on the implementation progress of sustainability and GHG reduction programs. CM (Sustainability) Ongoing The City continued to host quarterly community CCAP forums the 3rd Thursday of the month in January, April, July, and October from 4-6pm at the Community Development Conference Room, 3rd Floor in City Hall, 1400 5th Avenue. 92 Program C-5.1D Funding. Identify funding sources for recommended actions, and pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants. Investigate creation of a local carbon fund or other permanent source of revenue. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C-5.3A Local Government Agency Involvement. Continue to provide a leadership role with other local governmental agencies to share best practices and successes. CM Ongoing Program C-5.3B State and Federal Action. Recommend and support State and federal actions to update renewable energy portfolio standards, amend state building codes, and modify motor vehicle standards to reduce GHG emissions and achieve climate goals. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C-5.3C Regional Collaboration. Participate in regional collaborations among public agencies to enact and support new programs or shared improvements which promote or utilize renewable energy sources or reduce energy demand. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C-5.4A Low Carbon Municipal Vehicles. As finances allow, continue to shift the City’s vehicle fleet to zero emission vehicles and use low carbon fuels as an interim measure until gasoline-powered vehicles are replaced. PW No Action Program C-5.4B Advancing GHG and Sustainability Efforts. Monitor best practices in sustainability and the transition to GHG-free energy sources and evaluate the feasibility of applying such measures at the local level. CM (Sustainability) Ongoing 93 Program C-5.7A Public Outreach Campaign. As recommended by the Climate Change Action Plan, implement a communitywide public outreach and behavior change campaign to engage residents, businesses, and consumers around the impacts of climate change and the ways individuals and organizations can reduce their GHG emissions and create a more sustainable, resilient, and healthier community. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program C-5.7B Resilient Neighborhoods. Continue participating in the Resilient Neighborhoods program and expand the program to include local businesses (see text box). CM Ongoing Program C-5.7C Financial Incentives. Continue to raise awareness of savings, rebates and other financial incentives to conserve and recycle. CM (Sustainability) Ongoing Program C-5.7D Promote Sustainability Efforts. Promote sustainability and climate change awareness through education, publications, the City’s website, community organizations, and special events such as Earth Day and an annual Green Festival. CM (Sustainability) Ongoing PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element in attainment of San Rafael’s parks, recreation, and open space goals: • Goal PROS-1: Quality Parks for All to Enjoy • Goal PROS-2: Excellence in Recreational Programming • Goal PROS-3: Protected, Well Managed Open Space PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program PROS- 1.1A Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Prepare a Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including citywide recommendations for park management, operations, facility development, potential Progress The Library and Recreation Department plan to launch the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Process in March 2022 including the creation of Parks & Recreation 94 acquisition, and recreation service delivery, as well as recommendations for each City-owned park. Master Plan Steering Committee. The City will be seeking input from the community about the future of San Rafael parks and recreation programs and classes through surveys, community meetings as well as other methods. Program PROS 1.1B Capital Improvement Program. Use the Capital Improvement Program to identify funding sources and timing of parks and recreation capital projects. See also Program PROS-3.3A on an Open Space Management Plan PW Ongoing Program PROS- 1.2A Municipal Code Amendment. Modify Chapter 15.09 of the Municipal Code to establish a general standard of 4.0 acres of improved parkland per 1,000. Adjust the formulas for dedication of land to reflect this standard. PW No Action Program PROS- 1.2B Park In Lieu Fees. Periodically adjust park in -lieu fees to reflect the prevailing costs of land and facilities. Any increases to existing fees should be developed through a public process in which potential cost impacts on development feasibility are disclosed and measures to offset impacts on housing costs are considered. CDD No Action Program PROS- 1.2C Exemptions. To reduce further increases in housing costs, exempt accessory dwelling units and affordable housing units from park in-lieu and dedication requirements. Consider eliminating the existing exemption for market-rate rental housing or adopting a modified fee schedule which considers factors such as unit size and total project size. CDD No Action Program PROS- 1.3A New Parks. Develop additional parks and playgrounds in areas with unmet needs and in L&R No Action 95 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. (see also Policy LU-1.16 on school site reuse) L&R No Action Program PROS- 1.3C Adaptation Projects. Incorporate shoreline access and new recreational amenities in sea level rise adaptation and flood risk reduction projects where feasible. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program PROS 1.4A Park Plan Review. Work with qualified landscape architects, the Design Review Board, the Park and Recreation Commission, and the Planning Commission when preparing and reviewing park master plans and designing park improvements. L&R & PW No Action Program PROS 1.4B Community Engagement. Engage the community in park planning and facility development, including all groups and individuals who would be affected by such improvements. L&R & PW Progress The Library & Recreation and Public Works Departments plan to hold a series of community meetings, focus groups, and surveys to gather input from the public about how to improve San Rafael parks, recreational facilities and programs as part of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan process. The departments also plan to hold an outreach event and conduct a survey to gather feedback from the Sun Valley neighborhood on planned improvements to the Sun Valley Park. Program PROS- 1.5A Branding and Signage. Develop and implement consistent branding, wayfinding, and interpretive signage for San Rafael’s parks that identify park and open space properties and help the public L&R No Action 96 locate, navigate, and understand them. Park signage should be attractive, durable, and contribute to civic pride and identity. Program PROS- 1.6A Needs Assessment. Conduct a needs assessment as part of a Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Recreational facility needs should be periodically reevaluated in response to trends, demographics, and changing conditions. L&R Progress The Parks and Recreation Master Plan, scheduled to begin in 2022 and to be completed in early 2023, will include a needs assessment as part of the scope of work. Program PROS- 1.6B Park Improvements. As part of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, prepare plans to improve neighborhood and community park facilities. Seek funding to implement these plans. L&R Progress The Parks and Recreation Master Plan, scheduled to begin in 2022 and to be completed in early 2023, will include recommendations on improvements to neighborhood and community park facilities. Program PROS- 1.7A Field Improvements. Evaluate local athletic fields as part of a Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Develop design and capital facility recommendations for athletic fields based on the findings. L&R Progress The Parks and Recreation Master Plan, scheduled to begin in 2022 and to be completed in early 2023, will evaluate local athletic fields as part of the scope. Program PROS- 1.11A Design for All Users. Engage park users, businesses, residents, and social service providers in the design and management of urban parks to safely accommodate all users, provide universal access, and minimize conflicts. L&R No Action Program PROS- 1.11B Activating Public Space. Work with cafes, restaurants, and other businesses to activate and maintain urban parks and plazas. This can provide ‘eyes on the space,’ create a sense of ownership, and facilitate economic vitality by providing space for outdoor dining and vending. L&R No Action Program PROS- 1.12A Joint Use Agreements. Work with San Rafael City Schools and the Miller Creek School District to formalize joint use agreements for parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and other school facilities. L&R No Action 97 Program PROS- 1.13A Onsite Recreation Facilities. Continue to implement zoning regulations that require appropriate recreational facilities for residents in new development. CDD Ongoing 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. CDD Ongoing 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. CDD No Action 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. Funding mechanisms for maintenance should be identified for every capital project. L&R No Action Program PROS- 1.15B Park Stewardship. Encourage “adopt a park” programs and other stewardship initiatives that engage volunteers in park clean-up, maintenance, invasive plant removal, and other improvements. Explore agreements with the Downtown Streets Team and similar organizations to maintain park and open space areas. L&R No Action 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 L&R No Action 98 dedications, public/private joint ventures, the Capital Improvement Program, and all other available means. Program PROS- 1.16B Naming Rights and Sponsorships. Explore opportunities to generate revenue through naming rights, sponsorships, and charitable giving. L&R No Action Program PROS- 1.6C 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. L&R No Action Program PROS- 1.18A 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 and construction of park facilities and grounds. Where feasible, parks should also support the City’s wildfire prevention and sea level rise adaptation strategies, and be designed to maximize accessibility by pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users. L&R, CM (Sustainability) No Action 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. L&R No Action Program PROS- 2.1B Cultural Competency. Provide culturally competent and inclusive programming that reflects the diversity of San Rafael’s population. L&R No Action Program PROS- 2.2A Program Evaluations. Monitor and evaluate participation in the City’s recreational programs and use this information when developing new programs. L&R No Action 99 Program PROS- 2.2B Surveys. Conduct periodic surveys in multiple languages to evaluate recreational needs in neighborhoods and the city as a whole (see also Program EDI-1.3B on multi-lingual, culturally competent surveys). L&R Progress The Library & Recreation Department plans to launch a Statistically-Valid Survey for Parks and Recreation Master Plan to begin March 3, 2022 as well as a Communitywide Questionnaire scheduled to run from March through May 2022. 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. L&R Progress The Library and Recreation Department plans to partner with San Rafael City Schools and Marin YMCA to implement a free summer camp for up to 75 Canal youth in the summer of 2022. Program PROS- 2.4A Operating Hours. Maintain operating hours that meet public needs and accommodate activities such as child care and after school care. L&R Ongoing 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 to reduce fees for non-profit organizations and low income and special needs patrons should be included. L&R Progress Implemented an updated Recreation and Childcare Master Fee Schedule, which was adopted by City Council in July 2021. Developed and implemented a new Scholarship Program to help offset recreation program costs for low-income residents. 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. L&R No Action Program PROS- 3.1A Criteria for Open Space Protection. Use the following criteria for identifying and prioritizing open space parcels for future protection (the criteria are not listed in any particular order): a) Environmental health and safety issues and potential geologic and seismic hazards. b) Aesthetics (visual backdrop or edge, unique site features, shoreline, ridgelines). c) Wildlife resource value (wetlands, creeks and riparian areas, wildlife habitat and movement L&R No Action 100 corridors, and habitat for special status species). d) Ability to sequester carbon and mitigate potential climate-related impacts, including reduction of wildfire hazard, drought resilience, protection from sea-level rise. e) Importance to the community as a whole and/or adjoining neighborhoods. f) Merits of alternative uses. g) Ability to connect existing open spaces. h) Potential for recreational uses and/or environmental education, especially for economically disadvantaged communities. i) Availability of outside (non-City) financial assistance. j) Potential maintenance and management costs and liability exposure for the City. k) Feasibility of protection through zoning, easements, development agreements, and other tools rather than through acquisition. Program PROS- 3.1B Open Space Opportunities in New Development. Pursue opportunities to expand the City’s open space network when new development is proposed. This can be achieved through such strategies as clustering development, providing buffers and fuel breaks along site perimeters, dedicating on-site parkland, and mitigating project impacts through wetlands restoration or other measures. When potential open space is not contiguous to existing public open space, the preference is to retain it in private ownership. Maintenance agreements for such areas should include a permanent funding mechanism for maintenance and rehabilitation, follow sound ecological principles, and be enforceable by the City in the future. L&R & CDD No Action 101 Program PROS- 3.1C Priority Conservation Areas. Explore the feasibility of Priority Conservation Areas (PCA) designations for large areas of contiguous private open space in the San Rafael Planning Area. The PCA designation recognizes the significance of these areas as open space and provides support for their long-term conservation. Owner consent shall be obtained before an application for a PCA is submitted to ABAG. CDD No Action Program PROS- 3.1D Aquatic Open Space. Consider formal designation of a San Rafael Bay Aquatic Open Space in the waters off the city’s shoreline. Compatible conservation and recreational uses such as fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding should be encouraged in this area. L&R, CDD No Action Program PROS- 3.2A Management Prescriptions. Develop management prescriptions for different types of open space that recognize their capacity for improvements, access limitations, natural hazard levels, biological resources, and other physical characteristics (Note: this should be done as part of Program PROS-3.3A, listed below). L&R No Action Program PROS- 3.3A Open Space Management Plan. Work collaboratively with residents, environmental organizations, fire departments, and land management agencies such as Marin Municipal Water District, Marin County Parks and Open Space District, and California State Parks to develop an Open Space Management Plan. The Plan should address appropriate uses of open space in the Planning Area, along with provisions for ongoing maintenance and improvement. It should include six areas of focus: a) Recreation, including appropriate access points, parking and staging L&R, PW Progress The Fire Department participated in ongoing efforts relating to vegetation and fuel reduction work. 102 areas, wayfinding and interpretive signage, existing and future trail alignments, and guidelines for the location of amenities such as picnic tables and benches. b) Habitat Protection, including enhancing natural habitats, mitigating the impacts of human activities and climate change on plant and animal life, and preserving natural ecological functions. c) Hazard reduction, in accordance with ecologically sound practices and wildfire science, including removal of highly flammable invasive species, emergency access, and erosion control. This should be closely coordinated with ongoing efforts by the San Rafael and Marin County Fire Departments, Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority, CalFIRE, and non-profit organizations such as FireSafe Marin. d) Green infrastructure, including the capacity of open space areas to sequester carbon, absorb runoff, maintain water quality, mitigate climate change impacts, protect and enhance native biodiversity, and improve resilience. e) Public education, including interpretive facilities f) Funding, including operating costs and capital projects, and options for covering those costs such as assessment districts, interagency agreements, volunteer programs, and private funding, in addition to City funds. 103 Program PROS- 3.4A Diseased Vegetation. Work with resource agency experts to address tree pathogens and to remove hazardous vegetation and harmful invasive plants. L&R, FIRE, PW Ongoing Ongoing within the scope of fires wildfire prevention efforts. Program PROS- 3.4B Illegal Encampments. Continue to work with private and public property owners to identify and remove illegal encampments in open space areas. Provide a clear method for the public to report encampments when they are observed and work with Marin County Health and Human Services to help those in encampments find housing. CM (Homelessness) Ongoing Ongoing in collaboration with PD and Fire. Program PROS- 3.5A Appropriate Use of Private Open Space. When land is set aside as permanent open space in a private development or is dedicated to a public agency as open space, specify enforceable use limitations such as restrictions on structures, plant materials, and fences. L&R No Action Program PROS- 3.6A Access Points. Use the development review process to identify open space access points and required features such as signage, trailheads, and parking. CDD, PW, L&R No Action Program PROS- 3.7A Coordination with Other Jurisdictions. Continue to work with the public agencies managing open space within the San Rafael Planning Area to coordinate and implement City and County wildfire action plans, habitat conservation programs, and recreation improvements. L&R, CDD Ongoing Program PROS- 3.8A Citywide Trails Map. Develop—or assist volunteers with developing—a citywide trail map, building on work that has already been done by local advocacy groups. L&R No Action 104 Program PROS- 3.8B Trails Master Plan. Pursue grant funding and develop a Trails Master Plan, including provisions to improve access and signage to park and open space areas from San Rafael neighborhoods and balance the needs of different trail user groups. The Master Plan should include recommendations for new and enhanced trails, minimizing wildlife and habitat impacts, use guidelines for a variety of users, signage, surface materials, maintenance, compliance with trail rules, and staging areas. 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. San Rafael’s network of neighborhood paths, stairways, and mid-block walkways also should be included. See also Mobility Element Program M-6.4A regarding an Urban Trails Master Plan L&R No Action Program PROS- 3.10A Public Education. Continue outreach and public education on open space management, including wildfire prevention, stormwater management requirements, predatory animal control, climate change, and coordination between public and private property owners. Also, conduct periodic user surveys to better understand the needs and interests of open space visitors and determine which areas may require further attention. L&R Ongoing Program PROS- 3.10B Interpretive Facilities. Encourage the development of interpretive trails, nature centers, signage, and similar features that educate San Rafael youth and adults about the natural environment, best practices in conservation, and the value of open space. This should include information about the historic value of open L&R Progress Supporting the Audobon Society in the development of the Tiscornia Marsh project, which will include the development of interpretive signage for the pathway around Pickleweed Park. 105 space, including past uses of individual sites (such as mining, logging, military defense, farming, and hunting). SAFETY AND RESILIENCE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Safety and Resilience Element in attainment of San Rafael’s safety and resilience goals: • Goal S-1: A Safer, More Resilient City • Goal S-4: A Fire-Safe Community • Goal S-2: Resilience to Geologic Hazards • Goal S-5: Protection from Hazardous Materials • Goal S-3: Resilience to Flooding and Sea Level Rise PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program S-1.1A LHMP Mitigation Action Plan. Implement the Mitigation Action Plan in the LHMP. The City will consider opportunities to advance each action through operating procedures, development approvals, budgets, public education, and capital improvement projects. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-1.1B Mitigation Program Funding. Develop an overall funding strategy to prioritize and pursue mitigation projects, including identification and tracking of grants and regular coordination with FEMA and State hazard mitigation agencies. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-1.1C LHMP Updates. Periodically update the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan to reflect new data, technology, available resources, partnership opportunities, and state and federal requirements. CM (Sustainability) San Rafael’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) was last updated June 2017. San Rafael’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) was last updated June 2017. Program S-1.2A Entitlement Process. Use the entitlement process to evaluate the potential for hazards and to require appropriate mitigation measures and approval conditions. CDD Ongoing Program S-1.2B Use of Hazard Maps in Development Review Review slope stability, seismic hazard, flood hazard, sea level rise, wildfire, and other environmental hazard maps when development is Digital, CDD, CM (Sustainability) No Action 106 proposed. Update hazard maps to include data collected during development review and other studies. Measures to adequately mitigate mapped hazards should be identified prior to project approval. See also Policy LU-1.8 on clustering. See the Conservation/Climate Change Element for policies relating to air quality and development suitability. Program S-1.3A Critical Facilities in Vulnerable Areas. Prepare a Public Facility Vulnerability Assessment to identify City buildings and other infrastructure that are susceptible to environmental hazards. Measures should be taken to avoid extraordinary maintenance and operating expenses associated with hazardous conditions and minimize damage potential and interruption of service following a disaster. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-1.4A LHMP Amendments. Amend local emergency preparedness documents as needed to address public health emergencies, including communication protocol, emergency operating procedures, and provisions for sheltering-in -place. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-1.4B Pandemic Response and Recovery. Monitor and update data to support response and recovery to the COVID-19 pandemic. Such data should consider immediate and long-term impacts on housing, jobs, equity, local retail, parks and open spaces, health care, social services, the environment, demand for City services, and other variables that shape the safety and well-being of San Rafael residents and employers. As needed, amend policies and ordinances to address pandemic impacts and facilitate recovery and resilience to future public health emergencies. No Action 107 Program S-2.1A Seismic Design. Adopt and enforce State building codes which ensure that new or altered structures meet the minimum seismic standards set by State law. State codes may be amended as needed to reflect local conditions. CDD Ongoing Program S-2.1B Geotechnical Review. Continue to require soil and geologic hazard studies and peer review for proposed development as set forth in the City’s Geotechnical Review Matrix (See Appendix F and text box at right). These studies should determine the extent of geotechnical hazards, optimum design for structures and the suitability and feasibility of proposed development for its location, the need for special structural requirements, and measures to mitigate any identified hazards. Periodically review and update the Geotechnical Review Matrix to ensure that it supports and implements the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by identifying potentially hazardous areas. Consider removing the procedures from the General Plan and instead adopting them as part of the Zoning Ordinance or through a separate resolution. CDD Ongoing Program S-2.1C Earthquake Hazard Study. As recommended by the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, complete an Earthquake Hazard Study that examines geologic hazards in the city. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-2.2A Landslide Mitigation and Repair Projects. Undertake landslide hazard mitigation and repair projects, as outlined in the LHMP. These projects include a landslide identification and management program, repair of the Fairhills Drive landslide, and repair of the Bret Harte sewer easement. CM (Sustainability) No Action 108 Program S-2.3A Seismic Safety Building Reinforcement. Enforce State and local requirements for reinforcement of existing buildings, including the city’s remaining unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings. CDD Ongoing Program S-2.3B Soft-Story Building Mitigation Plan. Complete a citywide assessment of soft-story buildings and develop a mitigation strategy and cost-benefit analysis to modify these structures to reduce their potential to collapse during an earthquake. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-2.4A Inspection List. Develop and maintain a list of facilities that would be inspected after a major earthquake, including City-owned essential or hazardous facilities. Facilities on the list should be prioritized for inspection-scheduling purposes. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-2.5A Erosion and Sediment Control Plans. Require Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCPs) for projects meeting the criteria defined by the Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, including those requiring grading permits and those with the potential for significant erosion and sediment discharges. Projects that disturb more than one acre of soil must prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, pursuant to State law. PW No Action Program S-2.5B Grading During the Wet Season. Avoid grading during the wet season due to soil instability and sedimentation risks, unless the City Engineer determines such risks will not be present. Require that development projects implement erosion and/or sediment control measures and runoff discharge measures based on their potential to impact storm drains, drainageways, and creeks. PW Ongoing Program S-2.5C Sediment Use. Explore the use of sediment from human activities such as dredging and natural PW No Action 109 processes such as erosion for wetlands restoration and shoreline resiliency projects. Program S-3.1A Incorporate into City GIS. Incorporate the Sea Level Rise Prediction Map into the City’s Geographic Information System (GIS) map and utilize GIS as a publicly accessible tool for tracking flooding and sea level rise hazards. Digital, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.1B Periodic Update of Sea Level Rise Prediction Map. Review sea level rise data at least once every five (5) years to determine the need for Map updates. Digital, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.1C Sea Level Rise Overlay Zone. Adopt an “overlay zone” on the City Zoning Map incorporating the Sea Level Rise Projection Map. The “overlay zone” shall include land use regulations for site planning and a minimum construction elevation that reflects flooding and sea level rise data. Digital, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.2A Coordination with County of Marin. Coordinate with the County of Marin on updating data related to increased flooding and sea level rise. Utilize the County of Marin Bay Waterfront Adaptation & Vulnerability Evaluation (BayWAVE) as the basis for all City-prepared documents and plans addressing and adapting to increased flooding and sea level rise. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.3A Residential Building Resale (RBR) Reports. Revise the RBR Report template to include a disclosure of potential property risk due to increased tidal flooding and sea level rise. Utilize the Sea Level Rise Prediction Map for confirming property vulnerability. Work with realtors and property owners to implement this requirement. CM (Sustainability) No Action 110 Program S-3.4A Development Projects. Where appropriate, require new development, redevelopment projects, and substantial additions to existing development to consider and address increased flooding and sea level rise impact, and to integrate resilience and adaptation measures into project design. CDD Ongoing Program S-3.4B Capital Projects and Roadways. Prepare a guidance document to address increased flooding, sea level rise impacts, and adaptation measures into the City’s capital projects and planning process. This should include strategies to identify and evaluate the costs, benefits and potential revenue sources for elevating or redesigning low-lying roadways and critical infrastructure. If the life of a public improvement in a vulnerable area extends beyond 2050, adaptation measures should be incorporated. PW, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.4C Coordination with Utilities and Services. Coordinate with the utilities and services that have infrastructure and facilities in vulnerable areas (for example: wastewater treatment plants) to ensure that sea level rise information and goals are consistent with the City’s goals, and that infrastructure/utilities projects address and plan for increased flooding and sea level rise. See also Policies CSI -4.6 and M-2.11 addressing sea level rise impacts on infrastructure and transportation PW, CM (Sustainability) Ongoing Program S-3.5A Code Amendments for Floor Elevation. Update and adopt zoning, building and public works code requirements to establish and mandate a minimum finished floor elevation for new development, redevelopment and substantial additions to existing development. Consider CDD, PW Ongoing 111 adopting a minimum, finished floor elevation requirement of +3 feet above the FEMA 100-year flood elevation requirement.2 Program S-3.5B Ground Elevation Surveys. Perform periodic ground elevation surveys in the Sea Level Rise vulnerability zone. The result of the surveys should be considered when developing projects to reduce coastal flooding potential. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.5C Title 18 Flood Protection Standards. Evaluate and revise Title 18 of the Municipal Code (Protection of Flood Hazard Areas) to address anticipated sea level rise, increases in rainfall intensities, and any changes related to Federal or regional flood reduction criteria. CM (Sustainability), City Attorney No Action Program S-3.5D National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Continue to comply with the federal NFIP by maintaining a flood management program and flood plain management regulations. In addition, develop and periodically update a Community Rating System (CRS) to notify residents of the hazards of living in a flood area, thereby reducing local flood insurance rates. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.6A Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan. Prepare and adopt an adaptation plan addressing increased flooding and sea level rise. The adaptation plan shall include the following components: a) Sea Level Rise Projection Map, to be used as the basis for adaptation planning. b) Coordination with local, county, state, regional and federal agencies with bay and shoreline oversight, major property owners, and owners of critical CM (Sustainability) Progress Building off the more current resources and utilizing the BayWAVE Vulnerability Assessment as a foundation, City staff has prepared the Flood Risk & Sea Level Rise Adaptation Report, which has been incorporated into General Plan 2040. The purpose of this report is to “set the stage” in providing initial guidance on how an adaptation plan is to be developed and what is to be included in the plan. The report 2 The + 3 feet requirement has been used in several other bayfront communities. 112 infrastructure and facilities in the preparation of the adaptation plan. c) An outreach plan to major stakeholders and all property owners within the vulnerable areas. d) An inventory of potential areas and sites suitable for mid- to large-scale adaptation projects (see Appendices D and E for more information) e) A menu of adaptation measures and approaches that could include but not be limited to: o Managed retreat, especially on low- lying, undeveloped and underdeveloped sites; in areas that are permanent open space; and in areas that are environmentally constrained. Transfer of development rights from such areas should be encouraged. o Innovative green shoreline protection and nature-based adaptation measures such as wetlands and habitat restoration, and horizontal levees where most practical and feasible. o Hard line armoring measures (sea walls, levees, breakwater, locks, etc.) in densely developed areas to minimize the potential for displacement of permanent residents and businesses. o Elevating areas, structures, and infrastructure to reduce risks. f) The appropriate timing and “phasing” of adaptation planning and implementation. g) Potential financing tools and opportunities. h) Coordination or incorporation into the San presents the following suggestions for developing an adaptation plan: 1. Establish clear objectives through a community-based process 2. Utilize Adaptation Land Use Planning – Guidance for Marin County Local Governments 3. Identify policy and regulatory measures 4. Identify the appropriate adaptation tools and strategies 5. Identify financing measures and funding sources for implementation 113 Rafael Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Program S-3.6B Partnerships. Foster, facilitate and coordinate partnerships with the County of Marin, other effected agencies and utilities, property owners, and neighborhood groups/organizations on planning for and implementing adaptation projects. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.6C Countywide Agency/Joint Powers Authority. Work with the County of Marin to facilitate the formation of a centralized countywide agency or joint powers authority to oversee adaptation planning, financing and implementation. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.7A Levee Improvement Plans. Assess existing levees, berms, and flood control systems to identify reaches with the greatest vulnerability. Develop improvement plans based on existing conditions and projected needs, as documented in adaptation plans. This should include improvement studies for the Spinnaker Point levee, as recommended by the LHMP, and the Canalways levee along San Rafael Bay. PW, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-3.7B Financing Levee Improvements. Coordinate with property owners; residents and businesses; federal, state, and regional agencies; utilities; and other stakeholders to evaluate potential methods of improving levees and funding ongoing levee maintenance, including assessment or maintenance districts. The cost and fiscal impacts of levee improvements should be evaluated against potential benefits and costs and consequences of inaction. CM (Sustainability), City Clerk, ED No Action Program S-3.8A Storm Drainage Improvements. Consistent with Countywide and regional stormwater management programs, require new development PW Ongoing 114 with the potential to impact storm drainage facilities to complete hydrologic studies that evaluate storm drainage capacity, identify improvements needed to handle a 100-year storm, and determine the funding needed to complete those improvements. Program S-3.8B Green Infrastructure Guidelines. Evaluate potential measures to more sustainably manage stormwater, erosion, and improve water quality associated with urban runoff. This includes improvements such as rain gardens and permeable pavement, which attenuate flooding downstream and provide ecological benefits. See also Goal C-3 and Policy CSI-4.10 for related policies and programs on water quality and storm drainage PW Ongoing Program S-3.9A Incremental Flood Control Improvements. Where needed and possible, new development/redevelopment projects shall include measures to improve area flood protection. Such measures would be identified and required through the development review process. PW No Action Program S-3.9B Flood Hazard Mitigation Projects. Undertake flood hazard mitigation projects as outlined in the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, including sewer relocation and replacement, pump station rehabilitation, corrugated metal pipe replacement, and improvements to flood-prone streets such as Beach Drive. PW No Action Program S-3.9C Restoration and Dredging Projects. Implement restoration and dredging projects that will increase stormwater drainage capacity and reduce flood hazards. As noted in the LHMP, this PW Ongoing 115 could include restoration of the Freitas Parkway flood channel and dredging of Gallinas Creek and the San Rafael Canal. Program S-4.1A Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan. Implement the Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan (August 2020) in a manner consistent with the direction provided by the San Rafael City Council. FIRE Ongoing Ongoing with significant progress relating to defensible space, open space management, public education, and evacuation improvements Program S-4.1B Fire Hazard Maps. Maintain maps identifying potential fire hazard areas in San Rafael. Use these maps for vegetation management and planning purposes. FIRE, Digital No Action Program S-4.1C Fire Protection Ordinance. Continue to implement Municipal Code standards to reduce fire hazards in areas, including vegetation management requirements and the designation of a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Zone. Periodically update these standards and the WUI map to implement Wildfire Action Plan measures and other programs to further reduce wildfire risks. FIRE, City Attorney Progress Citywide vegetation standards have been adopted. Program S-4.1D Wildfire Fuel Breaks. Where necessary, create new fuel interruption zones in Wildland Urban Interface areas and maintain and expand zones that are already in place. Highly flammable exotic vegetation should be strategically removed in these areas to slow the spread of wildfire and reduce threats to homes. FIRE, Digital Ongoing Ongoing with significant work completed. Program S-4.1E Goat Grazing. Continue the use of goat grazing on lands where native vegetation will not be harmed through cooperative relationships with contractors and public agencies. FIRE Ongoing Annual project that is ongoing. 116 Program S-4.1F Encampment-Related Hazards. Work collaboratively with service providers for homeless residents and other partners to reduce fire hazards associated with illegal encampments and campfires. Consider partnerships to employ unsheltered residents in vegetation management work. FIRE, CM (Homelessness) Ongoing Ongoing, including vegetation removal in encampment sites. Program 4.1G Open Space and Forestry Management. Develop science -based open space and forest management plans to reduce fuel loads, maintain fuel breaks, replace highly flammable species with native species, and increase the health and carbon sequestration potential of open space lands. See the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element for additional policies and programs on open space management. FIRE, L&R Ongoing Focused on removal with plans to replace. Program S-4.2A Reduction of Structure Hazards. Implement measures to reduce wildfire hazards to existing structures, including fire-resistant landscaping and building materials, protected vents and gutters, phasing out wood shake roofs, vegetation management around structures, limits on highly flammable plant materials, restricted parking on narrow streets, and enforcement and abatement programs. Focus on measures that provide the greatest fire safety benefits relative to their costs to the City and private sector. FIRE Progress Ongoing with the support of a resident grant program and the requirement to replace all shake roofs. Parking restrictions completed on San Rafael Lincoln Hill with other areas in progress. Program S-4.2B Tree Maintenance. Undertake a tree safety maintenance program to maintain the health and safety of trees along public roadways and minimize safety impacts from trees falling in road rights of way. PW Ongoing 117 See the Conservation Element and Community Design Element for additional policies on trees Program S-4.2C Public Education on Fire Resilience and Response. Improve public education and awareness about fire -safe structures and landscaping. This should include demonstration projects that help property owners understand what species to remove and what to plant, and how to make their homes more fire-resistant. Education programs also should address actions to be taken in the event a fire is approaching, including warnings, evacuation routes, shelters, and provisions for “go bags” and personal safety. No Action Program S-4.3A Fire Hazard Mitigation in New Development. Through the development review process, require appropriate mitigation measures such as fire preventive site design, landscaping and building materials, and the use of fire suppression techniques such as interior and exterior sprinklers. Before adopting new Code standards and requirements, consider and disclose their potential costs to applicants relative to the benefits they may provide. FIRE Ongoing Program S-4.3B Development Review for Emergency Response. Review development applications in fire prone areas to ensure adequate emergency vehicle access, and adequate water pressure and supply for fire-fighting purposes (see also Goal CSI-4). FIRE Ongoing Program S-4.3C Wildfire Prevention Funding. Develop new partnerships, revenue opportunities, and funding avenues for wildfire prevention and hazard abatement. See also Program S-6.7A on additional emergency egress roads in Wildland Urban FIRE Ongoing Nearly 4 million a year available via Measure C/MWPA. Continued efforts to acquire grants. 118 Interface areas Program S-5.2A CUPA Program. Continue to participate in the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) program. The CUPA’s responsibilities shall include overseeing the investigation and closure of contaminated underground storage tank sites. PW Ongoing Program S-5.3A Inventory of Existing Hazards. Work with State and County GIS data to identify existing hazardous materials permit holders near schools, evaluate relative risk levels, and determine actions in the event of an accidental release. This data should be used to evaluate risk levels and develop measures to ensure the safety of students and school staff where necessary. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-5.3B Reducing Hazards Near Schools. Consistent with CEQA and the California Public Resource Code 21151.4, limit activities with the potential to release hazardous materials within one-quarter mile of schools. PW Ongoing Program S-5.4A Use of Environmental Databases in Development Review. When development is proposed, use environmental and hazardous materials data bases (such as the State GeoTracker data base) to determine whether the site is contaminated as a result of past activity. As appropriate, require studies and measures to identify and mitigate identified hazards. CDD, FIRE, PW Ongoing FIRE worked with consultants for environmental compliance on relevant projects. Program S-5.4B Hazardous Soils Clean-Up. Work with appropriate agencies to require remediation and clean-up prior to development of sites where hazardous materials have impacted soil or groundwater. The required level of remediation and clean-up shall be determined by the Certified Unified Program Agency (see Program S-3.2A) PW No Action 119 based on the intended use of the site and health risk to the public. Program S-5.4C Environmental Site Management Plan (ESMP). Require the preparation of an ESMP in consultation with the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board and/or the Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC), for proposed development on sites with known contamination of hazardous materials pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5. This includes, but is not limited to, sites in the on-line DTSC EnviroStor Data Base and the State GeoTracker Data base. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program S-5.4D Soil Vapor Intrusion Assessment. For sites with potential residual soil or groundwater contamination that are planned for redevelopment with an overlying occupied building, a soil vapor intrusion assessment shall be performed by a licensed environmental professional. If the results indicate the potential for significant vapor intrusion into the building, project design shall include vapor controls or source removal as appropriate in accordance with regulatory agency requirements. PW No Action Program S-5.5A Safe Transport of Hazardous Materials. Support California Highway Patrol’s efforts to ensure the safe transport of hazardous materials. PW Ongoing Program S-5.5B Pipeline Safety. Coordinate with regulatory agencies and utilities to ensure the safety of all fuel pipelines and ensure that maintenance and operating conditions are fully compliant with all state and federal safety regulations. PW No Action 120 Program S-6.1A Mutual Aid Agreements. Continue, and where feasible expand, mutual aid agreements that augment public safety personnel in times of emergency. PW No Action Program S-6.1B Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS). Maintain a SEMS-based emergency plan that provides direction and identifies responsibilities after a disaster. Continue to train all City employees and officials in SEMS procedures. FIRE Ongoing. Program S-6.1.C Emergency Preparedness Plan. Update and publicize the City’s emergency preparedness plan in conformance with State guidelines, including information on evacuation routes and shelter locations. The City’s Emergency Operations Center Handbook also should be updated. FIRE Progress The City worked on updating the EOP (Emergency Operating Procedures). Program S-6.1D Urban Search and Rescue Techniques. Continue to ensure that Urban Search and Rescue techniques remain current. Provide opportunities for trained volunteers to participate as appropriate. FIRE Ongoing Fire continues to closely coordinate with Marin County Urban Search and Rescue team to ensure that Urban Search and Rescue techniques remain current and provide opportunities for trained volunteers to participate as appropriate. Program S-6.2A Educational and Training Programs. Support educational and training programs through the Police and Fire Departments and community- based organizations. These Programs include Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Citizens Police Academy, Neighborhood Response Groups (NRGs), and Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) among others. Neighborhood teams should supplement City resources during emergency situations and can assist in disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts. FIRE Ongoing 121 Program S-6.2B Neighborhood Disaster Plans. Provide technical assistance as needed to develop and update neighborhood disaster plans. FIRE Ongoing Program S-6.2C Website Improvements. Regularly update the Fire Department’s website and social media presence to provide information on disaster preparedness, resources, and links to other sites. Include printed information in City publications such as the Recreation Activities guide. FIRE Ongoing Ongoing in collaboration with readymarin.org and the county emergency portal website. Program S-6.2D Outreach to Vulnerable Populations. Identify vulnerable populations (such as non-English speaking residents, frail older adults, young children, and persons with disabilities) that may need assistance in times of disaster. Develop outreach programs that are geared toward these populations, including multi-lingual communications. FIRE Ongoing Ongoing in collaboration with the VOAD and CRT. Program S-6.2E Disaster Management Drills. Conduct emergency response drills to test the effectiveness of local procedures, including evacuation and emergency shelter drills in neighborhoods prone to flooding and wildfire. FIRE Ongoing City staff participated in Golden Eagle EOC exercise. Program S-6.3A Evacuation-Related Capital Projects. Identify key capital improvements needed to facilitate the orderly evacuation of at-risk areas and the ability of designated assembly points to handle evacuees. FIRE Progress The MWPA has commissioned an Evacuation study in which the City is an active participant. Program S-6.4A Evacuation Shelters. Identify locations of evacuation shelters and provide the necessary training and supplies so that these centers can function effectively during and after a disaster. This should include refuge centers for extreme heat events, power failures, and air quality emergencies. FIRE Ongoing 122 Program S-6.5A Essential Services Following Disasters. Make provisions to continue essential emergency public services during and after natural disasters and other catastrophes. FIRE Ongoing Program S-6.5B Employee Transportation. To ensure adequate safety personnel in an emergency, explore ways to transport first responders from outlying areas when damaged infrastructure prevents them from driving to San Rafael. FIRE No Action Program S-6.5C Incentives for Disaster Response and Essential Worker Personnel. Support state legislation and City initiatives that would provide incentives for staff with roles in disaster response to live in San Rafael, so they may be readily available if a disaster should occur. FIRE Program S-6.5D Rapid Reconstruction Ordinances. Explore model ordinances and best practices to facilitate rapid reconstruction and recovery, including issues such as temporary housing and modular construction. Reconstruction should achieve code compliance, while advancing green building practices where feasible FIRE, City Attorney, CDD, PW Progress Fire plans to facilitate the rapid issuance of fire permits. Program S-6.6A Involvement with Marin Emergency Radio Authority. Maintain active involvement with Marin Emergency Radio Authority (MERA) and pursue installation and activation of the MERA radio system. FIRE Ongoing The City continued its role as an active partner. Program S-6.6B Emergency Alert Systems. Use emergency alerts, electronic message boards, and other notification systems to warn resident of an active threat such as a flood or wildfire. The use of emergency warning sirens and other types of mass notification alerts also should be considered. FIRE Ongoing Ongoing. Under contract for message boards at key facilities and in the planning process of an LRAD in China Camp. 123 Program S-6.7A Emergency Connectors. Maintain the following existing access routes for emergency vehicles: a) the existing connection between Freitas Parkway and Fawn Drive. b) the all-weather connections between Freitas and Fawn and between Ridgewood and Fawn. c) The connection between Del Ganado and Butterfield Road in Sleepy Hollow. d) The private portion of Sienna Way in the Dominican area. e) The access drive between Peacock and Biscayne. Consider the need for additional emergency connectors, including the costs, effectiveness, impacts, and potential to use such routes for evacuation in the event of a wildfire. FIRE No Action Program S-6.7B Obstruction of Evacuation Routes. Reduce obstacles for emergency vehicles and evacuation routes, including parked cars that constrict emergency vehicle passage. FIRE Progress The San Rafael Safe Parking and Parking Box program will replace the '6 feet from center rule' in select areas of the City with narrow and/or windy roads. After installation the signs, paint, and/or boxes will clearly mark where it is possible to park and still allow emergency vehicles access and resident egress. Installing the boxes and signage provides a nuanced approach that improves public safety while limiting the impact on available parking as much as possible. The initial installation was completed September 2021. Program S-6.7C SMART Crossing. Work with SMART to explore the feasibility of an emergency vehicle rail and pedestrian/bicycle crossing at Merrydale Drive (see also Policy NH-4.10). FIRE No action Program S-6.8A Facility Evaluations. Regularly evaluate the need to upgrade essential public safety facilities, FIRE Ongoing Fire is in the final phase of the City facilities projects with the reconstruction of stations 124 equipment, and technology, and identify funding mechanisms to meet these needs. 54 & 55. Fire is currently challenged with managing the replacement of vehicles due to supply chain limitations. Program S-6.8B Energy Storage Plan. Develop an Energy Storage Plan, including microgrids and expanded battery capacity, to improve reliability of the power system following a major disaster (see also Policy CSI -4.13 on energy reliability). FIRE No Action NOISE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Noise Element in attainment of San Rafael’s noise goals: • Goal N-1: Acceptable Noise Levels PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program N-1.1A Residential Noise Standards. Maintain a maximum noise standard of 70 Ldn DB for backyards, decks, and common/usable outdoor spaces in residential and mixed use areas. As required by Title 24 insulation requirements, interior noise levels shall not exceed 45 Ldn in all habitable rooms in residential units. CDD Ongoing Program N-1.2A Acoustical Study Requirements. Require acoustical studies for new single family residential projects within the projected 60 dB Ldn noise contour and for multi-family or mixed use projects within the projected 65 dB Ldn contour (see Figure 9-2). The studies should include projected noise from additional traffic, noise associated with the project itself, and cumulative noise resulting from other approved projects. Mitigation measures should be identified to ensure that noise levels remain at acceptable levels. CDD Ongoing Program N-1.2B Approval Conditions. Establish conditions of approval for activities with the potential to create significant noise conflicts and enforce these CDD No Action 125 conditions once projects become operational. Program N-1.3A Site Planning. Where appropriate, require site planning methods that minimize potential noise impacts. By taking advantage of terrain and site dimensions, it may be possible to arrange buildings, parking, and other uses to reduce and possibly eliminate noise conflicts. Site planning techniques include: (a) Maximizing the distance between potential noise sources and the receiver. (b) Placing non-sensitive uses such as parking lots, maintenance facilities, and utility areas between the source and receiver. (c) Using non-sensitive uses such as garages to shield noise sensitive areas. (d) Orienting buildings to shield outdoor spaces from noise sources. (e) Incorporating landscaping and berms to absorb sound. CDD No Action Program N-1.3B Architectural Design. Where appropriate, reduce the potential for noise conflicts through the location of noise-sensitive spaces. Bedrooms, for example, should be placed away from freeways. Mechanical and motorized equipment (such as air conditioning units) should be located away from noise-sensitive rooms. Interior courtyards with water features can mask ambient noise and provide more comfortable outdoor spaces. CDD Ongoing Program N-1.3C Noise Barriers. Where appropriate, use absorptive noise barriers to reduce noise levels from ground transportation and industrial noise sources. A barrier should provide at least Ldn 5 PW, CDD Ongoing 126 dB of noise reduction to achieve a noticeable change in noise levels. Program N-1.3D Noise Reduction through Construction Materials. Where appropriate, reduce noise in interior spaces through insulation and the choice of materials for walls, roofs, ceilings, doors, windows, and other construction materials. PW, CDD No Action Program N-1.5A Disclosure Agreements. Where appropriate, require disclosure agreements for residents in mixed use projects advising of potential noise impacts from nearby commercial enterprises, such as restaurants and entertainment venues. CDD No Action Program N-1.6A Interagency Coordination. Work with Caltrans, Marin County, the Transportation Authority of Marin, and other agencies to achieve noise reduction along freeways and major arterials in San Rafael. This shall include noise mitigation measures in any redesign plan for the I-580/US 101 interchange. PW No Action Program N-1.6B California Vehicle Code. Enforce applicable sections of the California Vehicle Code relating to noise. Parking Services, PD Ongoing Program N-1.6C Paving and Transit Improvements. Pursue cost- effective paving technologies to minimize traffic noise and support the use of quieter buses and other mass transit vehicles. Noise reduction should be considered an important benefit as the City and its transit service providers transition to electric vehicles. PW No Action Program N-1.8A Quiet Zones. Maintain the Marin County designated “Quiet Zone” along the rail line. The Zone ensures that train horns are not sounded PD Ongoing 127 except when trains are leaving the station, or if there is an emergency. Program N-1.9A Noise Ordinance. Maintain and enforce the noise ordinance, which addresses common noise sources such as amplified music, mechanical equipment use, and construction. Updates to the ordinance should be periodically considered in response to new issues (for example, allowing portable generators during power outages). PD, CDD Ongoing In 2021, various city departments, including PD and CDD, continued to enforce the City’s Noise Ordinance through the permitting process as well as noise complaints. Program N-1.9B Construction Noise. Establish a list of construction best management practices (BMPs) for future projects and incorporate the list into San Rafael Municipal Code Chapter 8.13 (Noise) The City Building Division shall verify that appropriate BMPs are inclu ded on demolition, grading, and construction plans prior to the issuance of associated permits. CDD Ongoing Program N-1.9C Noise Specifications. Include noise specifications in requests for equipment information and bids for new City equipment and consider this information as part of evaluation of the bids. PW Ongoing Program N- 1.10E San Rafael Rock Quarry. Seek to minimize noise impacts of the quarry and brickyard operations through cooperative efforts with the County of Marin through its code enforcement and land use entitlement processes. PW No Action Program N- 1.11A Vibration-Related Conditions of Approval. Adopt Standard conditions of approval in San Rafael Municipal Code Chapter 8.13 (Noise) that apply Federal Transit Administration (FTA) criteria for acceptable levels of groundborne vibration for various building types. These conditions should: (a) reduce the potential for vibration- CDD, PW No Action 128 related construction impacts for development projects near sensitive uses such as housing, schools, and historically significant buildings. (b) reduce the potential for operational impacts on existing or potential future sensitive uses such as uses with vibration-sensitive equipment (e.g., microscopes in hospitals and research facilities) or residences. Vibration impacts shall be considered as part of project level environment al evaluation and approval for individual future projects. If vibration levels exceed FTA limits, conditions of approval shall identify construction and operational alternatives that mitigate impacts. MOBILITY ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Mobility Element in attainment of San Rafael’s mobility goals: • Goal M-1: Regional Leadership in Mobility • Goal M-5: Safe, Attractive Streets that Connect the Community • Goal M-2: Improved Transportation Efficiency and Access • Goal M-6: Safe Walking and Cycling • Goal M-3: Cleaner Transportation • Goal M-7: Well Managed Parking • Goal M-4: High Quality, Affordable Public Transit PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program M-1.1A Participation in Countywide and Regional Transportation Planning. Actively participate in the planning activities of the Transportation Authority of Marin, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, SMART, and other transportation agencies and support implement- ation of cost-effective regional plans and programs. PW Ongoing The City participates in TAM’s planning activities. Program M-1.1B Public Information About Transportation. Provide timely information and opportunities for PW Ongoing Public Works continued to update its website and social media channels to notify 129 public input on transportation issues and projects through workshops, neighborhood meetings, social media, staff reports, and other means. the community of road closures and traffic updates. The City coordinated an in person community event to guide and inform the Canal Based Transportation Plan (CBTP) in FY 2021-22 . Program M-1.2A Transportation Project Grants. Work with governmental agencies, non-profits and community groups to secure grants for appropriate transportation projects. PW Ongoing The City applied for several transit grants through the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM), the State of California, and at the Federal level. Program M-1.3A US 101/I-580 Connector. Continue to collaborate with TAM, Caltrans, the City of Larkspur, and impacted stakeholders on improvements to the US 101 I-580 interchange and Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, including advocacy for local access improvements to East San Rafael. PW Ongoing The City continued to actively engaged in this regional project. Program M-1.4A Transportation Technology. Use the most cost- effective proven technologies available when managing congestion and parking, including transportation information systems and “smart city” improvements. Parking Services Ongoing Program M-1.4B Delivery Services. Prepare for the potential impacts of emerging delivery service technology, including drones, on local roads, infrastructure, parking systems, and noise. PW No Action Program M-1.4C Autonomous Vehicles. Monitor and manage the effects of autonomous vehicles, personal air vehicles, and connected vehicle technology on transportation needs, road design, and travel behavior. Adjust local transportation programs, infrastructure, and design standards as needed. PW No Action Program M-2.1A Complete Streets. Consistent with State “Complete Streets” requirements, maintain street design and engineering standards that plan for the needs of all travelers and minimize conflicts PW Ongoing Applied for CA SB1 complete streets grants. 130 between competing modes. Program M-2.2A Collision Data. Collect and analyze data on traffic collisions and use such data to inform decisions about capital improvements, enforcement, and traffic safety programs. PW Ongoing The City maintains all the collision data in a database called SafeRoads. Program M-2.2B Street Pattern and Traffic Flow. Support efforts by the City Traffic Engineer to configure or re- configure street patterns to improve traffic flow and turning movements while prioritizing safety. PW Progress The City converted C and D from one-way streets to two ways. Similar plans for B Street. Program M-2.3A Cost-Benefit Analysis. Conduct cost-benefit analyses as part of the design process for proposed transportation projects, including the criteria listed above and other factors that may be relevant (see also Policy CSI -5.1 on cost-benefit analysis). PW Ongoing Program M-2.4A Intelligent Transportation Systems. Support the use of intelligent transportation systems to improve traffic flow and provide real-time data on traffic conditions so that motorists may travel through the city as efficiently as possible. PW Progress Major investment in downtown traffic signals were completed. Emergency fire and police vehicle preemption deployment in 2022 Program M-2.4B Reducing Vehicle Idling. Support transportation network improvements to reduce vehicle idling, including synchronized signal timing. PW Ongoing Program M-2.4C Roundabouts. Consider the use of roundabouts as an alternative to traffic signals and stops signs. Roundabouts can improve the flow of traffic when they are properly designed and located on streets with low to moderate volumes. PW Progress Several roundabout projects are under consideration. Program M-2.5A Traffic Circulation Studies. Traffic impact studies will be required for projects with the potential to increase congestion, create safety hazards, or otherwise impact local circulation PW Progress The City adopted new guidelines for the preparation of Transportation Impact Analysis (TIA) Guidelines in compliance with SB 743. 131 conditions. Unless covered by the exceptions in Policy M-2.5, such studies should include projections of future LOS, an assessment of the contribution of the proposed project to increases in congestion, an assessment of projected increases in congestion on greenhouse gas emissions, and an assessment of traffic impact fees related to the project. Measures to maintain adopted service levels may be required as a condition of approval. Projects that are exempt from LOS and/or VMT standards may still be required to perform limited scope traffic and circulation studies to evaluate impacts on traffic conditions or traffic control devices in the immediate area of the proposed project. For projects in Downtown San Rafael, local traffic assessments (LTAs) should evaluate the potential for additional delay or safety hazards at nearby intersections. LTAs should identify necessary road or operational improvements, ingress and egress requirements, and potential site plan changes that reduce delays, conflicts between travel modes, and potential safety hazards. Guidelines for traffic impact studies and Local Traffic Assessments have been developed concurrently with General Plan 2040. The guidelines should be periodically updated to ensure they are achieving their intended purpose and to reflect new data, forecasts, and methodologies. The City adopted VMT standards in the 2040 General Plan update. Program M-2.5B Level of Service (LOS) Exceptions. Exceptions to LOS planning thresholds may be granted where both of the following circumstances apply: a) The improvements necessary to attain the standards would conflict with other land use, PW Ongoing 132 environmental, community character, emission reduction, safety, housing, or econo- mic development priorities. b) Based on substantial evidence, the City Council finds that: (i) The specific economic, social, technological, and/or other benefits of the project to the community substantially outweigh the project’s impacts on circulation. (ii) All feasible mitigation measures have been required of the project including measures to reduce vehicle delay and measures to reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT); and (iii) The project is consistent with and advances the Guiding Principles of General Plan 2040, including foundational principles such as maintaining great neighborhoods and a sense of community, and aspirational principles such as improving housing affordability, preparing for climate change, and sustaining a healthy tax base. Program M-2.5C Traffic Monitoring. Monitor and evaluate traffic conditions throughout San Rafael on an ongoing basis. Based on such evaluations, the City Traffic Engineer may develop recommendations to improve operations, address safety concerns, or modify thresholds. New traffic monitoring technology should be implemented as it becomes available. PW Ongoing Signals are capable of collecting high resolution traffic data for various uses in planning and operations. Program M-2.6A Traffic Mitigation Fee Updates. Continue to implement and periodically update local traffic mitigation fees and other requirements to cover development-related traffic and transportation improvements. PW Progress The Traffic Impact Fee was updated by the City Council by Resolution No. 14983 on October 4, 2021. The update was based on a nexus study conducted by Fehr and Peers Consultants. The nexus report justified the 133 increase of the trip rate to $6,909. The City Council directed that this fee be implemented gradually over a five-year period starting in January 2022 and provided for an annual adjustment of the fee according to the Lee Saylor Construction Cost Index. Program M-2.7A Update Proposed Circulation Improvements. Regularly update the list of proposed circulation improvements based on traffic data, available funding, and evolving issues and priorities. Incorporate projects into the Capital Improvements Program as appropriate. PW Ongoing Program M-2.7B Circulation Improvement Funding. Advocate for Federal, State, and County funding for the transportation projects shown on Table 10-1, as well as other projects that improve mobility in San Rafael. Seek alternative funding sources if traditional sources are unavailable. PW Progress Several grant applications have been submitted for transportation improvements citywide. Program M-2.8A Highway Closures. Develop and update contingency plans for highway closures as part of the City’s disaster preparedness and emergency response plans. PW No Action Program M-3.1A VMT Analysis Guidelines. Develop local guidelines for calculating the projected VMT associated with future development projects and transportation improvements. The guidelines also should cover administration, screening criteria, and appropriate Transportation Demand Management measures and monitoring procedures. All VMT metrics should be reassessed at least once every four years and revised as needed to reflect changing conditions. PW Progress Guideline s were adopted in 2021. Program M-3.2A Screening Criteria for VMT Analysis. Adopt and maintain screening criteria for different land uses PW Progress Guidelines were adopted in 2021. 134 and project types to determine when a VMT analysis is required as part of the environmental review process. Screening criteria should be revisited over tim e to ensure that they are appropriate. The criteria should include exemptions for projects with substantial VMT benefits, such as mixed use and infill development in Downtown San Rafael. Program M-3.2B Thresholds for Determining a Significant VMT Impact. Adopt and maintain thresholds to determine if a VMT impact may be considered “significant” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). PW Progress The City adopted VMT standards in the 2040 General Plan update. Program M-3.2C Mitigation Measures for VMT Impacts. Develop and implement mitigation measures that can be applied to projects with potentially significant VMT impacts in order to reduce those impacts to less than significant levels (see Policy M-3.3 and Program M-3.3A). PW Progress Guideline s were adopted in 2021. Program M-3.2D Overriding Considerations for Projects with Unavoidable VMT Impacts. Require the adoption of specific overriding consideration findings before approving a project that would result in significant unavoidable impacts on VMT. PW Ongoing Program M-3.3A Update Trip Reduction Ordinance. Modify the San Rafael Trip Reduction Ordinance (TRO) to reflect General Plan VMT policies. The amended TRO shall include VMT reduction thresholds, VMT reduction measures and program guidelines, and a VMT trip reduction monitoring process. The TRO shall be updated a minimum of every four years to reflect changes in baseline values, VMT thresholds, VMT reduction measures, and the PW, City Attorney Ongoing 135 results of monitoring. The modified TRO shall reflect the process and methodology for conducting VMT analysis described in the City’s Transportation Analysis (TA) Guidelines. Program M-3.3B Support for TDM. Work cooperatively with governmental agencies, non-profits, businesses, institutions, schools, and neighborhoods to provide and support TDM programs. PW Ongoing Program M-3.3C City TDM Program. Implement a TDM program for City employees, potentially in partnership with other local governments, public agencies, and transit providers. Promote the program as a model for other local employers. PW No Action Program M-3.3D Shifting Peak Hour Trips. Support efforts to limit traffic congestion by shifting peak hour trips to non-peak hour, modifying school hours to stagger start and end times, and encouraging flexible work schedules. The long-term impacts of remote work on potential TDM strategies should be considered. PW Ongoing Program M-3.4A Telecommuting. Encourage San Rafael employers to implement telecommuting and work- from-home programs that reduce daily peak hour commutes. Also encourage co-working spaces, cafes, short-term office rentals, home offices, improved internet access, and opportunities for residents employed elsewhere to work productively within San Rafael. Consider “lessons learned” during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic when evaluating policy approaches to telecommuting. CDD No Action Program M-3.4B Housing Services. Support and facilitate roommate matching programs, connections CDD (Housing) Progress The City allocated a portion of CDBG public services funding to Covia Foundation – 136 between local property managers and major employers, employer housing programs, and other initiatives aimed at helping local workers find housing in San Rafael. See the Economic Vitality Element and EDI Element for policies on workforce development so that residents may gain the skills needed to find employment in San Rafael. Home Match Marin, which provides a roommate matching service. The City continued to with stakeholders on the 2023 – 2031 Housing Element Update to identify opportunity sites for housing development and specific programs and policies that would address local housing needs, including workforce housing and home matching. Program M-3.5A Carpooling and Vanpooling. Support car and vanpooling in San Rafael through local and regional programs and on-line apps that match interested drivers and passengers. CM (Sustainability),ED Ongoing Program M-3.5B Shared Mobility. Support efforts to establish and operate car-sharing, bike-sharing, and other services that provide alternatives to driving, particularly in Downtown San Rafael and other transit-served areas. CM (Sustainability), ED Ongoing Program M-3.5C Micro-Mobility. Coordinate with “micro-mobility” companies such as shared electric scooter and electric bicycle vendors who seek to provide services in San Rafael. CM (Sustainability), ED No Action Program M-3.5D Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). Work with TNCs (Uber, Lyft, etc.) to address issues such as curbside management and maximize the potential benefits of such services. CM (Sustainability), ED No Action Program M-3.6A Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Plan. Consistent with the San Rafael Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP), develop and implement a ZEV Plan with a goal of 25% of the passenger vehicles in San Rafael being ZEVs by 2030. As part of the planning process, targets shall be updated to meet or exceed State ZEV goals, and establish reduction targets for 2040 . The ZEV Plan should CM (Sustainability), ED No Action 137 provide for additional charging stations, preferential parking for ZEVs, programs that incentivize ZEV use by San Rafael residents, and plans to expand electrical system capacity if needed to meet increased electric vehicle demand. Program M-3.6B Municipal Zero Emission Vehicles. As finances allow, shift the municipal vehicle fleet to ZEVs. Use low-carbon fuels as an interim measure until gasoline-powered City vehicles are replaced. See also Program M-7.9B on electric charging station requirements PW No Action Program M-4.1A Transit Advocacy. Support State, County, and regional efforts to sustain and expand Marin County’s transit network. Work with neighborhoods, employers, transit providers, transportation planning agencies and funding agencies to improve and expand transit and paratransit services. PW Ongoing Program M-4.1B Evaluating Transit Needs. Support efforts to track, forecast, survey, and respond to changing transit and paratransit needs in order to meet the requirements of specific population groups. Advocate for meaningful public participation in meetings and discussions with transit providers and ensure that the needs of those in the community who are transit-dependent are well represented. Encourage the use of performance measures and regular reporting by transit agencies to ensure services are being delivered as efficiently as possible. PW Ongoing 138 Program M-4.1C Partnerships. Encourage partnerships between local transit service providers to avoid redundancy, maximize coverage and efficiency, and improve transfers between transit systems. CM (Sustainability), ED, PW Ongoing Program M-4.1D Transit for Tourism. Support efforts to provide effective transit options for visitors to West Marin and other county tourist destinations, in order to reduce regional traffic flow through San Rafael. CM (Sustainability), ED, PW No Action Program M-4.1E Transit Information. Encourage the development and dissemination of information to facilitate transit use. This includes real-time, multi- lingual information on bus arrivals, departures, transfers, and routes. In addition, the City should include information on transit access on notices of City meetings and provide links to transit websites from its own website CM (Sustainability), ED, PW Progress Links to transit services have been posted on the City website. Program M-4.1F Public Health. Work with transit service providers to effectively respond to service and design challenges associated with rider safety during and after public health emergencies. PW No Action Program M-4.2A Regional Bus Service. Support expansion of regional bus service to and from other Bay Area counties, including expanded express bus service along the 101 and 580 corridors, and continued bus and shuttle service to the region’s airports. PW No Action Program M-4.2B Rail Service. Advocate for reliable long-term funding sources to sustain and enhance North Bay rail service. PW No Action Program M-4.2C Ferry and Water Taxi Service. Work with the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District and other regional agencies to support improved ferry service, additional ferry terminals, PW No Action 139 efficient connections between ferries and other transportation modes, new ferry routes (to Vallejo, the East Bay, San Francisco, and points south), autonomous buses, and other improvements that would increase ferry use and regional transit ridership. Consider the viability of water taxi service to supplement the ferry system and improve local connections. Program M-4.3A Rail Safety. Work with SMART to improve safety measures along the SMART tracks, reduce train noise, and avoid the blockage of intersections by trains. PW No Action Program M-4.3B Passenger Pickup and Drop-Off. Work with SMART on plans to improve passenger pick-up and drop-off, connectivity between trains and buses, and provisions for passenger parking (see also Policy M-7.9 on parking for transit users). PW No Action Program M-4.3C Arrival Experience. Create a welcoming experience for passengers arriving at the Downtown San Rafael and Civic Center stations, including wayfinding signage, easy transfers, and clearly marked, well-lit pathways to nearby destinations. PW No Action Program M-4.3D Service Reliability. Work with SMART to avoid disruptions of service during power outages and provide backup power to sustain operations during and after emergencies. PW No Action Program M-4.3E Downtown Crossings. Continue to work with SMART to reduce congestion related to grade- level train crossings in Downtown San Rafael. Encourage SMART to assess the potential cost, as well potential funding sources, to elevate or underground the tracks through downtown. PW Ongoing 140 Program M-4.4A Local Bus Service. Support Marin Transit and Golden Gate Transit efforts to improve bus routing, frequency, and equipment, and to keep bus fares affordable. PW No Action Program M-4.4B Improved Bus Stops. Support efforts to improve bus stops and shelters to provide a safe and pleasant experience for riders. Allow commercial advertising to fund bus shelter upgrades and maintenance. PW No Action Program M-4.4C Local Shuttle Programs. Support efforts to create financially feasible shuttle, jitney, and circulator bus services to connect passengers arriving at the San Rafael Transit Center and SMART stations to their destinations. CM, ED, PW Ongoing Program M-4.6A Other Local Transit. Support Dial-A-Ride, taxi, and transportation network company (TNC) services serving San Rafael. CM, ED, PW Ongoing Program M-4.6B Paratransit Service. Support continued Whistlestop Wheels service and expanded regional paratransit services where needed CM, ED, PW Ongoing Program M-4.7A Transit Center Relocation. Complete the relocation process for the San Rafael Transit Center. Design of the facility should consider the effects on local street congestion and the safety of those walking or bicycling to and from the facility. Continue to work with transit service providers to coordinate schedules, transfers, and routing in a manner that is convenient for San Rafael travelers. CM, ED, PW No Action Program M-4.7B First Mile/ Last Mile Trips. Work with TAM, transit agencies, neighborhood groups, and the local business community to improve options for “first mile/last mile” trips connecting regional transit hubs to nearby destinations. CM, ED, PW Ongoing The Public Works Department actively works with TAM. 141 Program M-4.7C Implementation of Other Plans. Implement the recommendations of the Downtown Precise Plan, the Downtown Station Area Plan, and the Civic Center Station Area Plan for coordination of transit services and improvement of connections between travel modes. CDD, PW Ongoing Program M-5.1A Traffic Calming Program. Maintain a neighborhood traffic calming program under the direction of the City Traffic Engineer and seek funding for its implementation. Ensure neighborhood participation in the development and evaluation of potential traffic calming solutions. PW Ongoing Program M-5.1B Emergency Access Considerations. Ensure that road redesign projects, including bicycle and pedestrian improvements, maintain evacuation capacity and emergency vehicle response time, particularly along designated evacuation routes. FIRE, PW Ongoing. Fire ensures that roadways for all new projects conform to the applicable provisions of the California Fire Code. Program M-5.2A Landscape Maintenance. Continue to regularly maintain landscaping along roadways, and to encourage attractive drought-tolerant and native plantings. PW Ongoing Program M-5.3A East San Rafael Improvements. Consider the potential for new or relocated roads in East San Rafael that would relieve local street congestion, increase efficiency, and improve access between the north and south sides of Interstate 580. PW Progress The Department of Public Works worked on a Priority Development Area (PDA) grant application for 2022. Program M-5.4A Interchange Improvements. Work with Caltrans and TAM to ensure that the design of freeway interchange improvements includes measures to relieve local congestion, provide commuter parking, improve pick-up/drop-off parking at bus PW Progress The Department of Public Works actively engaged with TAM on development of the Manuael Freitas offramp improvements. 142 stops, and enhance pedestrian and bicycle access and safety. This could include grade-separated pedestrian and bike path crossings where needed. Program M-5.5A School Transportation. Implement measures to improve the safety of students walking, bicycling, or taking the bus to school. Examples include pedestrian crossing enhancements, transit passes or reduced rates for students, locating transit stops near school campuses, supporting increased funding for school buses and crossing guards, and staggering school hours. PW Ongoing Program M-5.6A Trucking Routes and Transportation Permits. Continue to designate specific streets as trucking routes and maintain permit requirements for vehicles that exceed weight limits on non- designated routes. PW Ongoing Program M-5.6B Quarry Traffic. Continue, and periodically update, measures to address the impacts of quarry-related truck traffic on Point San Pedro Road. PW Ongoing Program M-6.1A Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Implementation. Maintain San Rafael’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan (BPMP) and update the Plan as required to ensure eligibility for grant funding. The BPMP should be a guide for investment in pedestrian and bicycle infra- structure, and for programs to make walking and cycling a safer, more convenient way to travel. PW Ongoing Program M-6.1B Station Area Plans. Implement the pedestrian and bicycle improvements in the 2012 Downtown Station Area Plan and the 2012 Civic Center Station Area Plan. PW No Action 143 Program M-6.1C Canal Community Based Transportation Plan (CBTP). Update the CBTP for the Canal neighborhood, including provisions to improve walking and cycling within the Canal and East San Rafael communities, explore water transportation, and better connect the Canal area to downtown, the waterfront, and the rest of the community. PW Progress The Department of Public Works plans to spearhead a community engagement effort and form a Stakeholder Committee to update the Community Based Transportation Plan (CBTP). The CBTP will be presented to City Council summer of 2022. The City is currently working on adding and enhancing street lights in the Canal. In addition, we have applied for multiple grant funding opportunities. Program M-6.1D Funding. Seek grant funding for implementation of the BPMP and other plans proposing bicycle and pedestrian improvements PW Ongoing Program M-6.2A Implementation of Safety Measures: Implement pedestrian and bicycle safety measures as described in the 2018 BPMP, including ADA compliant curb ramps, curb extensions in business districts, median refuge islands, active warning beacons, painted bike “boxes” at intersections, and signal phasing adjustments in areas with high bicycle volumes. PW Ongoing Program M-6.2B Vision Zero. Consistent with the BPMP, support a “Vision Zero” approach to safety among pedestrians and cyclists, with the goal of eliminating severe injuries and fatalities. PW Progress The Department of Public Works plans to join regional effort to formulate the Vision Zero plan. Program M-6.2C Enforcement. Conduct enforcement activities to improve compliance with traffic safety laws, especially around intersections with frequent collisions. PD Ongoing Program M-6.2D Safe Routes Programs. Work collaboratively with local schools to implement Safe Routes to School programs. Explore similar programs to promote safe routes to parks, work, services, and transit, as well as safe routes for seniors. PW Progress The Department of Public Works actively engaged with TAM. The City sets aside funds in the operating budget to address immediate needs. 144 Program M-6.3A Implementation of Pathway Improvements.: Implement the major pedestrian and bicycle pathway, intersection, and lane improvements included in adopted City plans, including: • Restoration of pedestrian paths, stairways, and rights-of-way, particularly in the “inner ring” neighborhoods around downtown • An east-west bikeway across downtown • A north-south greenway and separated bicycle and pedestrian facilities along West Tamalpais Avenue • Improved crossings of the San Rafael Canal, including a potential new crossing east of Grand Avenue • Additional Class I, II, and IV lanes, as identified in the BPMP • Improved signage, pavement markings and sidewalk widening • Closing gaps in the Bay Trail Bike lane improvements to Point San Pedro Road (Cross-Marin Bikeway) PW Ongoing Program M-7.1A Shared Parking. Encourage shared parking arrangements that serve private and public users (for example, private office parking lots that are available for nighttime public use). CDD Ongoing Program M-7.3A Downtown Parking and Wayfinding Study Recommendations. Implement the technology recommendations of the 2017 Downtown Parking and Wayfinding Study and study the application of these recommendations to other parts of San Rafael. Parking Services No Action Program M-7.4A Monitoring Demand. Monitor demand for parking around the Downtown SMART station and San Rafael Transit Center to determine the need Parking Services Ongoing 145 to adjust parking time limits and costs, and the need to increase supply. Program M-7.4B Assessment District Expansion. Modify the Downtown Parking Assessment District boundaries to include the areas east to Hetherton and west to E Street. Pursue parking and other transportation-related services and improvements in the expanded area. Parking Services No Action Program M-7.4C Private Garages. When new private parking structures are constructed downtown, encourage the inclusion of spaces that are available for public use (at rates to be set by the owner). Consider development agreements and public private partnerships that support such set -asides. CDD No Action Program M-7.4D Wayfinding Signage. Improve wayfinding signage for downtown parking. Undertake marketing programs to make drivers and pedestrians more aware of the location of parking and convenience of downtown parking lots and garages. PW, Parking Services Ongoing Program M-7.4E Design Standards for Parking Garages. Develop design standards for parking garages to ensure that they maintain architectural integrity, are easy to use, align pedestrians toward their destinations, and can support ancillary activities where they front pedestrian-oriented streets. CDD, PW No Action Program M-7.5A Adjustments to Parking Rates. Establish a formal system for setting and periodically re- evaluating parking rates based on performance, costs, best practices, and similar factors. Rates should be based on occupancy data and designed to support fiscal health, as well as the needs of residents, businesses, workers, and visitors. As needed, the City Code should be Parking Services No Action 146 modified to establish principles for parking management as well as a process for rates to be reviewed based on specified metrics. Program M-7.6A Adjustments to Parking Standards. Periodically adjust off-street parking requirements to respond to data on parking needs, and trends in vehicle design, car ownership, and travel behavior. PW No Action Program M-7.6B Parking Reductions. Allow reduced parking subject to findings that a project will have lower vehicle ownership rates (for example, for senior housing or housing in the Downtown area). CDD, PW Ongoing Program M-7.7A Residential Permit Parking. Re-evaluate provisions for residential permit parking to make it easier and less costly to implement such programs. Parking Services No Action Program M-7.7B Parking Studies. Periodically conduct neighborhood and business district parking studies. Use these studies as the basis for parking management strategies. See also Policy LU-3.7 on on-street parking in neighborhoods Parking Services No Action Program M-7.8A Charging Stations. Install additional chargers in public parking lots and garages for electric vehicles and e-bikes. Consider expanding electric charging requirements for private parking lots and structures. Parking Services PW Ongoing Program M-7.8B Parking Standards. Periodically revisit off-street parking standards to include incentives or additional standards for clean air vehicles, bicycles and e-bikes, shared vehicles, and other low-emission travel modes. PW, CDD No Action 147 Program M-7.9A Commuter Parking. Regularly evaluate the need for parking around the SMART stations and San Rafael Transit Center, as well as ways to meet that need. Parking Services Ongoing COMMUNITY SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Community Services and Infrastructure Element in attainment of San Rafael’s community services and infrastructure goals: • Goal CSI-1: Educational Excellence • Goal CSI-4: Reliable, Efficiently Managed Infrastructure • Goal CSI-2: Modern, Welcoming Libraries that Meet Community Needs • Goal CSI-5: Sound Municipal Financial Practices • Goal CSI-3: Exceptional Public Safety Services • Goal M-7: Well Managed Parking PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program CSI- 1.1A Communication. Maintain regular communications with the School Districts, including periodic joint City Council/School Board meetings, to foster collaboration and address issues of mutual interest. CM No Action Program CSI- 1.1B Partnerships with Schools. Participate in public and private school initiatives to educate students about local issues and City government. CM No Action Program CSI- 1.1C Higher Education. Expand partnerships with Dominican University, the College of Marin, and other nearby colleges and universities to support local education and lifelong learning. See Goal EDI-5 for additional guidance on educational programming. See Policy LU-2.7, Policy PROS-2.4, and Policy EDI-5.1 for guidance on child care. L&R No Action Program CSI- 1.2A Joint Use Agreements. Develop joint use agreements with the School Districts and other local academic institutions to improve community L&R No Action 148 access to facilities for recreation, child care, and/or community events. Program CSI- 1.3A Internships. Provide City-sponsored internships for working-age students and assist with publicity about other internship opportunities through partnerships with the Marin County Office of Education and others. Encourage and facilitate local businesses and non-profits to provide internships, apprenticeships, mentoring, and vocational programs. CM No Action Program CSI- 1.4A City Programs and Classes . Continue to offer a variety of City-sponsored leisure, recreation, education, and personal enhancement courses and programs for all age groups. Regularly assess participation and public opinion to determine interest and support. L&R Progress The Library & Recreation Department re- opened in person recreational and educational programs and services. Program CSI- 1.5A School Construction Projects. Coordinate with school personnel on campus construction, modernization, and improvement projects. CDD, PW Ongoing Program CS I- 1.5B Long-Range Planning and Development Review. Collaborate with schools on long range planning and development review, including collection of appropriate fees, enrollment projections, and planning for future improvements. CDD, PW No Action Program CSI- 2.1A New Main Library. Fund, develop, and construct a new Main Library designed to provide adequate space for collection materials, City programs, public meeting rooms and technology, seating for visitors, and services for special user groups such as children and teens. Develop adaptive reuse plans for the historic Carnegie Library as part of library planning. L&R Progress Completed a conceptual design process to explore options for a joint library and community center at Albert Park. 149 Program CSI- 2.2A Pickleweed and Northgate Libraries. Modernize and expand the Pickleweed and Northgate Libraries so they are adequately equipped to deliver the services needed in the surrounding communities. L&R No Action Program CSI- 2.2B School Libraries. Consider partnerships with the school district to make high school libraries available to the public. L&R No Action Program CSI- 2.4A Focused Services. Provide dedicated library programs for children, youth, older adults, and Spanish-speaking residents. Provide other services, such as free internet access and electrical power during an emergency. L&R Progress The Library provided online virtual programs for children, youth, older adults, and Spanish-speaking residents. Program CSI- 2.4B Literacy Programs. Continue to offer literacy and tutoring programs for English learners, as well as support and training for volunteer tutors. L&R Progress Reformed partnership with Tamalpais Adult School and Bahia Vista Elementary School to offer adult ESL classes for adults two days a week. Program CSI- 3.1A Police Department Strategic Plan. Develop a Strategic Plan for police services to evaluate trends, establish goals, prioritize future actions, determine budget needs, and align services with other City departments. The Plan should include a proactive response to issues relating to social justice and compassionate law enforcement. Engage the community, including local businesses, in this process. PD No Action Program CSI- 3.1B Capital Facilities. Complete improvements to essential public safety facilities made possible by voter-approved measures. Conduct periodic evaluations of facility and technology needs in the future to ensure that the Police and Fire Departments are equipped to respond to emergencies and deliver quality services. CM, City Clerk, PD, FIRE, CDD Progress Fire is on track with completing the Facilities projects with Fire Stations 54 & 55 currently in progress. 150 Program CSI- 3.1C Public Safety Training. Provide and encourage ongoing employee training to ensure public safety staff skills remain current and innovative. Continue to provide training in de-escalation and least harm techniques, as well as mental health and racial bias training. PD No Action Program CSI- 3.1D Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance. Maintain and upgrade vehicles and equipment as necessary. PD Ongoing Program CSI- 3.2A Crime Prevention through Environmental Design. Design new public and private development to achieve “eyes on the street,” including site planning, lighting, landscaping, and architectural design features that reduce the potential for crime. PD No Action Program CSI- 3.2B Emergency Response Time. Use the development review process to identify appropriate measures to reduce fire hazards and ensure emergency response capacity that is consistent with National Fire Protection Association standards. PD No Action Program CSI- 3.3A Community Safety Programs. Implement community public safety programs such as National Night Out and the Citizens Police Academy to support a safer community and promote positive relationships between law enforcement officials and residents. Implement similar programs promoting fire prevention and preparedness. PD Ongoing Program CSI- 3.3B Business Outreach. Engage the business community in public safety program development and implementation. This should include increasing awareness of existing programs and developing new initiatives and partnerships to PD No Action 151 address property crime and other public safety issues affecting local businesses. Program CSI- 3.4A Foot Patrol Services. Maintain and potentially expand foot patrol services. Continue to work with homeless service organizations, mental health professionals, and the business community to create a safe, welcoming environment in Downtown San Rafael and other parts of the city. PD No Action Program CSI- 4.1A Capital Improvement Programming. Maintain and regularly update a multi-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) covering City owned and operated infrastructure and public facilities. Seek the input of other local service providers (MMWD, LGVSD, etc.) when preparing the City’s CIP and encourage these agencies to seek City input as they prepare their own CIPs. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.1B Funding for Maintenance and Capital Costs. Consider ways to improve the reliability of maintenance funding, such as establishing a reserve fund or voter-approved parcel taxes and special assessments. Identify potential funding sources for unmet and anticipated future capital project needs, such as grants, bond measures, and impact fees. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.1C Community-Supported Services. Consider community-supported (e.g., cooperative) services as an alternative to bring fundamental service upgrades to neighborhoods and managing capital costs. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.2A Long-Term Planning. Continue to use the CIP to analyze and respond to local capital facility needs. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.2B Engineering Standards. Require new development to comply with the subdivision PW Ongoing 152 standards in the San Rafael Municipal Code, as well as relevant Marin County and utility district engineering standards. Where feasible, encourage development to reach beyond current standards and collaborate with the community to innovate and define new best practices. Program CSI- 4.2C Impact Fees. Continue to collect impact fees and use other funding mechanisms to ensure that new development pays its fair share of providing/upgrading services associated with that development. CDD, Finance Ongoing Program CSI- 4.3A Design Review. Require design review for City projects. Provide complementary design review for major projects proposed by other public agencies. CDD No Action Program CSI- 4.3B CIP Process. Continue to make the City’s CIP easily available and to solicit public input in the CIP process, including web-based and social media applications that facilitate community feedback. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.4A Public Space and Infrastructure. Seek opportunities to improve environmental quality in the design of streets, infrastructure, and public spaces. For example, public space improvements provide an opportunity to retain and treat stormwater through groundwater infiltration and subsurface water storage. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.4B Reducing Impervious Surfaces. Pursue porous pavement, rain catchment areas, and similar elements that reduce runoff. See also policies and programs under Goal C-4 of the Conservation/Climate Change Element (green PW No Action 153 streets, low carbon concrete, cool pavement, etc.) Program CSI- 4.6A Guidance Document. Prepare a guidance document for incorporating sea level rise into the City’s capital planning process. CM (Sustainability), PW No Action Program CSI- 4.6B Coordination with Service Providers. Coordinate with water, sewer, energy, solid waste, and telecommunication service providers to prepare a plan for retrofitting critical infrastructure for rising sea levels, more intense storms, and other climate-related impacts. CM (Sustainability), PW No Action Program CSI- 4.7A Pavement Management. Continue participation in the Pavement Management Program to assist in prioritizing street resurfacing projects. Adjust prioritization criteria as needed to ensure that pavement condition, traffic safety, equity, and community input are addressed. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.7B Street Sweeping. Continue to maintain a street sweeping program. Work with neighborhoods on ways to improve street sweeping efficiency and to publicize street sweeping programs. Investigate alternative funding sources for street sweeping. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.7C Sidewalk Repair. Continue to implement a cost- sharing program for Sidewalk Repair with residential property owners that is consistent with the State Streets and Highway Code, property owner interest, and funding availability. The success of the program, as well as sidewalk conditions and repair priorities, should be monitored. Potential funding sources and other cost-sharing approaches should be considered to address equity. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.7D Street Lighting Program. Continue efforts to improve street lighting, staying mindful of the PW Ongoing 154 need to balance financial, public safety, and environmental objectives. See also Policy C-1.19 and Program C-1.19A on night lighting and dark skies. See Policy C-1.16 on urban forestry and Policy CDP-3.5 on street trees. See Policy EDI-4.2 on equitable maintenance. Program CSI- 4.8A Urban Water Management Plan. Support MMWD’s efforts to regularly update and implement an Urban Water Management Plan. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.8B Water Supplies. Monitor efforts by the MMWD to implement conservation standards and expand the local water supply to meet long-term needs and potential future drought conditions. If desalination facilities are proposed along the bayfront in the future, ensure adequate review of environmental, design, and economic issues. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.8C: Water Pressure and Storage. Work with MMWD to ensure that water pressure and storage remains adequate for fire-fighting, and to implement standards for new development that ensure adequate water flow. See also Policy C-3.8 on water conservation PW No Action Program CSI- 4.9A Coordination of Services. Support efforts by the Las Gallinas Sanitary District, Central Marin Sanitation Agency and San Rafael Sanitation District to maintain high-quality wastewater collection and treatment facilities and implement sustainability programs. Sanitation No Action Program CSI- 4.10A Replacement of Aging Facilities. Pursue the replacement of older or failing drainage facilities PW, Sanitation No Action 155 such as metal pipes and stormwater pumping stations with more durable and resilient materials, or with new structures and pumps. Program CSI- 4.10B Silt Removal. Continue to remove accumulated silt from City maintained drainageways, ponds, and creeks subject to tidal siltation such as Mahon and Irwin Creeks. Sediment from stream flow and deposition should be considered a potential resource. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.10C Sustainable Stormwater Management. Seek funding for projects that restore the natural characteristics and functions of stormwater systems, such as bioswales and conversion of concrete ditches to natural creeks. Such projects should mitigate the effects of urban runoff, reduce flood hazards, and improve water quality and habitat value PW No Action Program CSI- 4.11A Funding. Utilize federal Army Corps of Engineers funds to survey and plan for Canal dredging. Pursue additional funding for dredging and maintenance, and for levee repair and sea level rise adaptation improvements. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.12A CMSA Capacity Expansion. Support implementation of the CMSA/ MMWD Recycled Water Study recommendations, enabling increased use of recycled water and reduced potable water demand. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.12B Las Gallinas Expansion Project. Support completion of the Recycled Water Expansion Project and continued expansion of recycled water capacity. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.12C Sewer Line Replacement. Replace low-lying sewer pipes as needed to reduce saltwater PW No Action 156 intrusion, thereby reducing the cost of producing reclaimed water. Program CSI- 4.13A Backup Energy Provision. Evaluate backup energy provisions for critical public facilities, mass transit (including rail crossings), and wireless infrastructure and upgrade as needed. Encourage the use of fuel cell, battery storage, and solar generator backups, rather than gasoline-powered generators. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.13B Microgrids. Encourage further exploration of microgrids, allowing locally-generated renewable energy networks to supplement the electrical distribution system and provide back-up power in the event of an emergency, PW No Action Program CSI- 4.13C Emergency Power and Communication. Use public facilities as emergency centers for electricity, communication, and cooling in the event of a disaster, extreme heat event, or extended power outage. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.14A Funding for Undergrounding. Explore funding opportunities and financing mechanisms to accelerate the undergrounding of utilities, including Rule 20A and B funds, private funding, and assessment districts. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.14B Prioritizing of Undergrounding Projects. Develop a process to prioritize utility undergrounding projects. Among the factors to be considered are aesthetics, visibility, fire hazards, and vulnerability to flooding and sea level rise. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.14C Public Information. Provide information to the public on the costs of undergrounding projects, and the options for funding. PW No Action 157 See the Safety and Resilience Element for additional policies and programs on fire safety and power lines Program CSI- 4.15A Technology Improvement Plan. Develop and maintain a multi-year plan for funding and prioritizing major City technology projects. Digital No Action Program CSI- 4.16A Fiber Optic Infrastructure. Continue to encourage and permit the expansion of fiber optics infrastructure from existing “backbone” conduits to potential “last mile” customers. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.16B Service Providers. Work with telecommunication service providers to improve access to state-of- the-art systems and services. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.16C Reliability. Support efforts to “harden” mobile communication infrastructure so it is operational or can be quickly restored during a power outage or emergency, See the Community Design and Preservation Element for policies to mitigate the visual effects of antennae and collocate new telecommunication facilities PW No Action Program CSI- 4.17A Waste Reduction. Implement waste reduction programs consistent with the San Rafael Climate Change Action Plan and Zero Waste Goal. These include partnerships with Zero Waste Marin, Marin Sanitary Service, and other organizations; requirements for construction and demolition debris recycling; increased monitoring of waste diversion targets; waste audits; and additional infrastructure for removal of recoverable materials from the waste stream. CM (Sustainability) No Action 158 Program CSI- 4.17B Recycling. Continue recycling programs and expand these programs to increase waste diversion rates for homes, apartments and workplaces. PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.17C Construction and Demolition Waste. Continue to implement programs requiring recycling of construction and demolition debris. Encourage the reuse of recycled building materials in future projects. CDD, PW Ongoing Program CSI- 4.17D Waste Reduction Programs. Continue efforts to reduce electronic waste, refrigerants, and single use plastics; and ensure proper disposal of household hazardous waste. This should include enforcement of City bans on plastic bags and polystyrene foam and potential new programs to reduce microplastics from waterways, PW No Action Program CSI- 4.17E Community Composting. Implement a mandatory community-scale program for curbside collection, composting, or other low-emission conversion of food and green waste, as well as vegetation cleared through fire prevention efforts. The program shall comply with SB 1383 requirements to divert at least 75% of organic waste from landfills. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.17F Waste to Energy. Support the Central Marin Sanitation/Marin Sanitary Food to Energy Program and other programs that capture energy from waste processing and disposal. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.17G Recyclable Waste Receptacles. Support efforts by Marin Sanitary to install waste receptacles for recyclables in areas of heavy pedestrian traffic. PW No Action Program CSI- 4.18A Recycling Education. Encourage Marin Sanitary to continue its recycling education programs and to expand awareness of “reduce, reuse, and PW No Action 159 recycle” principles among all residents and employees. Programs to promote reuse and repair of consumer goods rather than landfill disposal should also be supported. Program CSI- 5.1A Cost-Benefit Methodology. Develop guidelines and procedures to more formally incorporate cost-benefit and fiscal impact analysis in the evaluation of new projects and programs. CM, L&R No Action Program CSI- 5.2A Public Involvement. Continue to involve residents and businesses in the budget process to the extent feasible, through community meetings, focus groups, social media, and other outreach methods. Issues associated with rising pension costs also should be reported in a transparent manner. CM, Finance Ongoing Ongoing annual process around budget adoption. Program CSI- 5.3A Program Assessment. Continue to provide budget and finance progress reports to the City Council. Continue to use benchmarks and quantifiable metrics, as well as qualitative evaluations, to monitor performance and determine progress in achieving program goals and objectives. Finance Ongoing The Finance Department brings mid-year and annual reports to Council, including the year-end report for FY 2021-22 that was taken to Council on September 19. Finance tracks performance and fiscal outcomes closely. Program CSI- 5.3B Surveys. Regularly survey residents on their satisfaction with specific City services and programs (see also Program EDI-1.3B). CM No Action Program CSI- 5.4A Revenue Monitoring. Continue to maintain a revenue monitoring system to assist in trend analysis and revenue forecasting. Finance Ongoing Finance continued to maintain a robust forecast model to track revenues and expenditures and identify any potential challenges. Program CSI- 5.4B Grants. Actively seek grants and encourage interdepartmental cooperation in preparing grant applications. CDD, CM No Action 160 Program CSI- 5.4C Cost of Services. Periodically evaluate the cost of providing services and adjust revenue sources accordingly. Finance Progress Staff will bring a Master Fee Schedule update to Council by the end of 2022, which is the result of a multi-year analysis and public outreach process to update citywide fees to meet the cost of delivering services. Program CSI- 5.4D New Revenue Sources. Consider establishing new revenue sources to adequately fund services and respond to changing conditions, including sources that require voter approval. Finance, City Clerk Progress Staff regularly reviewed and considered new and enhanced revenue opportunities. Program CSI- 5.5A Funding Strategies for Infrastructure and Services. In cooperation with other jurisdictions, develop funding strategies and joint powers agreements for infrastructure and services that create economies of scale for the contributing parties. Finance Progress Ongoing involvement in Shared Service Agreements and participation in other local partnerships. ARTS AND CULTURE ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Arts and Culture Element in attainment of San Rafael’s arts and culture goals: • Goal AC-1: Arts and Culture that Enrich Community Life PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program AC- 1.1B Arts Facilities. Support and encourage efforts to improve and sustain local arts facilities, including those operated by government, non-profits, and other organizations, and recognize their role in making San Rafael a regional arts hub. CM No Action Program AC- 1.2A Falkirk Cultural Center. Promote the Falkirk Cultural Center as a venue to support and foster the arts and celebrate local culture. Seek funding to rehabilitate and improve the mansion and sustain programs through income-producing activities. CM No Action 161 Program AC- 1.1C Arts and Culture Master Plan. Build on the work done by the County of Marin and San Rafael- based arts organizations to create a San Rafael Arts and Culture Master Plan. All segments of the community, including residents and workers, should be encouraged to participate in this process. The Plan should promote participation of the arts community in civic life, enhance arts programming, promote cultural inclusion, and maximize opportunities for arts events. Potential funding sources for a Master Plan and its implementation should be explored. As part of this process, options for ongoing leadership and arts advocacy should be considered, potentially including an Arts Council, Commission, or similar organization. CM No Action Program AC- 1.2A City Activities. Continue to provide City- sponsored arts classes and cultural activities, including arts programs at San Rafael’s community centers. Programs should be equitably distributed around the city so that they can be accessed by all residents. CM, L&R Ongoing Continued to offer arts classes at all San Rafael Community Centers, including ceramics, watercolor, and a free weekly art program for youth in partnership with DrawBridge. Partnered to produce the City’s 33rd annual Dia de los Muertos celebration with expanded activities spanning the Canal neighborhood and downtown San Rafael. Provided space to four different art exhibits open to all, free of charge, at the Falkirk Cultural Center. Program AC- 1.2B Programs for Diverse Populations. Encourage additional inclusive arts programming for the general public, including persons of all socio- economic means, ages, ethnicities, genders, and abilities. Special emphasis should be placed on programs for youth, children, and older adults. CM, L&R Progress Weekly DrawBridge expressive arts program was offered at the Albert J. Boro Community Center, which is intended for children of domestic violence and homeless shelters/affordable housing as well as youth in general. Program AC- 1.2C Advocacy for Arts Programming. Advocate for continued arts programming in public schools and other venues. CM, L&R No Action 162 Program AC- 1.2D Public Information. Work with local arts organizations to improve public awareness of local venues, galleries, exhibits, events, performances, and opportunities to participate in arts and cultural events in the city. Provide links to such information on the City’s website and strengthen the website as a resource for the arts community. CM, L&R Progress Worked with downtown businesses (including Art Works and art supply stores), Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Business Improvement District to provide Dia de los Muertos altars in downtown windows in October. Cross promoted events with Downtown BID. Falkirk Cultural Center also worked with Artworks Downtown and local art supply stores to market Art Exhibits and Art Classes. Program AC- 1.3A Venues. Encourage arts groups, schools, and businesses to conduct programs in City venues. Seek opportunities for the City to use County, institutional, and private space for its arts activities. CM, L&R Ongoing Continually worked with school districts in hosting activities at community centers. Program AC- 1.4A Equitable Programming. Improve cultural equity and access to arts programming among lower income and non-English speaking residents (for example, through new partnerships, training, outreach strategies, multi-lingual initiatives, and reduced fees for qualifying residents). CM, L&R Progress In 2021, implemented and restructured the City’s co-sponsorship application process at the Albert J. Boro Community Center to continue to offer free and reduced cost programming in the Canal community. Program AC- 1.5A Art in Public Places. Evaluate the feasibility of an Art in Public Places Ordinance (or “percent for art” program) that would establish a funding source and/or mechanism for increasing public art. Strive for solutions that maximize flexibility in the way funds are collected and used. CM, L&R No Action Program AC- 1.5B Community-Based Outdoor Art Installations. Support participatory public art projects that engage the community, such as murals, 3D art, and street painting. Such projects should foster a greater understanding of local cultures, arts, and history and provide an opportunity to express CM, L&R No Action 163 neighborhood identity. Program AC- 1.6A Art as a Community Benefit. Recognize space for the arts as a community benefit in municipal code and density bonus programs. Expand incentives for incorporating arts space and arts features in new projects and in vacant and underutilized space. CM No Action Program AC- 1.6B Reducing Barriers. Amend municipal codes or adopt new policies as needed to facilitate the temporary or interim use of vacant commercial or lobby space for art exhibits, display space, and “pop up” arts and cultural activities. CM, CDD, City Attorney No Action Program AC- 1.6C Central Performance Spaces. Prioritize creation of central outdoor spaces suitable for community- wide events and performances in Downtown San Rafael, the Canal neighborhood, and in the North San Rafael Town Center (for example, at Northgate Mall). Provide the necessary infrastructure (electric power, etc.) for these spaces to serve their intended purpose. CM, L&R No Action Program AC- 1.7A Sponsorship of Events. Support special events that provide quality arts, cultural, and enrichment activities in locations throughout the community. CM, L&R, ED No Action Program AC- 1.7B Art and Technology. Support an expanded and more vibrant arts and cultural presence through technology, including the potential for “virtual” events and media that reach larger, more diverse audiences. See also Policy LU-3.11 and Program EV-2.5C on special events CM, L&R Progress Offered three Art Exhibitions at the Falkirk Cultural Center online to create a virtual experience to reach a wider audience. 164 Program AC- 1.8A Arts District. Leverage the Downtown San Rafael Arts District designation to encourage, promote, and support arts activities, attract visitors and business patrons, promote equity and inclusivity, and create a more welcoming and exciting downtown environment. Encourage multi-disciplinary art activities and events that showcase local talent and provide opportunities for all residents to experience the arts. Regularly renew the Arts District designation to sustain arts and cultural opportunities. CM, L&R Progress L&R and ED staff provided support for the Downtown San Rafael Arts District (“DSRAD”) to receive funding from the California Arts Council as part of the State’s $30 million allocation to support the Cultural Arts Districts of California. Program AC- 1.8B Cultural Tourism. Promote cultural tourism (for example, visits to the Frank Lloyd Wright- designed Civic Center or the Mission San Rafael Arcangel) as a way to support and sustain the local arts community and hospitality industry. Partnerships with the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau should be encouraged. CM, ED No Action Program AC- 1.9A Communication. Support ongoing communication with and among local arts organizations to address and resolve issues of concern, including pandemic recovery. CM No Action Program AC- 1.9B Engagement in Community Actions. Recognize the arts community as important stakeholders in local community actions and economic development strategies. Support artist engagement in planning and governance. CM, ED No Action Program AC- 1.9C Showcasing Local Artists. Consider artist in residence programs, poet laureates, City - sponsored lunch concerts and similar events showcasing the work of local artists and performers. CM No Action 165 Program AC- 1.9D Reducing Costs. Explore opportunities to create more affordable space for artistic production, including live-work and studio spaces, public cultural facilities, and affordable performance space. Remove barriers to reusing vacant or underutilized commercial space for this purpose. CM, CDD No Action Program AC- 1.9E Volunteers. Provide opportunities for volunteers in art, cultural, and literary events. CM No Action Program AC- 1.10A Non-Profit, Private and Community Efforts. Support the efforts of non-profit, private, and community organizations to apply for grants, raise funds, develop arts endowments, and promote community and business investment in art, cultural, and literary activities. This support could include funding, volunteers, staffing, coordination, providing space and materials, and similar collaborative efforts. CM No Action Program AC- 1.10B New Funding Sources. Explore potential new funding sources or funding relief mechanisms such as set-asides from transient occupancy taxes, sales taxes, or parking revenues; tax credits and property tax abatements; and corporate and foundation support. CM, ED No Action ECONOMIC VITALITY ELEMENT Effectiveness of the Economic Vitality Element in attainment of San Rafael’s economic vitality goals: • Goal EV-1: A Healthy and Resilient Economy • Goal EV-2: A Diverse and Balanced Business Mix • Goal EV-3: Distinctive Business Areas PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program EV- 1.1A Education About the Local Economy. Continue to promote a business-friendly climate by educating decision-makers and the public about the inter-relationship of community life and ED Ongoing 166 economic vitality. This should include data on the local economy, including indicators of San Rafael’s economic health, disseminated through the City newsletter, City website, social media, staff reports, and other means. Program EV- 1.1B Economic and Fiscal Impacts. Continue to evaluate economic and fiscal impacts in reports to the Planning Commission and City Council. CDD Ongoing Program EV- 1.1C Pandemic Recovery. Develop and implement prudent and economically viable measures to recover losses in City revenue resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. See also Policy EV-1.7 on the importance of workforce housing to the local economy Finance Progress The City experienced lower losses of revenue than initially anticipated as a result of stronger sales tax receipts and Federal and State aid. Program EV- 1.2B Equitable Economic Development Strategy (EEDS). Collaboratively develop an EEDS that identifies the economic sectors the City seeks to grow, the mechanisms for attracting these sectors to San Rafael, the areas of the city earmarked for growth, and target estimates for wage levels and business volumes. The Strategy should engage residents, businesses, thought leaders, and community groups and be designed to address locally identified needs, challenges, and priorities. Potential partners for preparing the EEDS should be identified so that the work fully leverages current research, local resources, and expertise. ED Progress Engaged an Economic Development Strategic Plan consultant to prepare the City’s first Economic Development Strategic Plan that is expected to be completed in 2023. Program EV- 1.3A Chamber of Commerce and Business Improvement District. Sustain partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Business Improvement District, and other business organizations to improve the business climate and support local businesses. ED Ongoing 167 Program EV- 1.3B Relationships with the Real Estate Community. Engage the local commercial and residential real estate brokerage and development community in identifying and resolving barriers to doing business in San Rafael and keeping City staff informed of business trends and changes. This engagement should occur on a sustained basis, through regular communication and events. ED Ongoing Program EV- 1.3C Marin County Economic Forum. Work with the Marin County Economic Forum to analyze business trends, improve the economic health of the region, and encourage businesses vitality and profitability in San Rafael. ED No Action Program EV- 1.3D Communications with Residents. Regularly communicate with residents on economic issues. Maintain consistent and accessible contact through, for example, meetings with neighborhood associations, the City website, and community workshops. ED Ongoing Program EV- 1.3E Minority Business Outreach. Work with local minority-owned businesses, business organizations, and non-profits to encourage business success and support job training and career advancement opportunities. ED Progress Worked with Marin Small Business Development Center to market minority- owned small business grant funding opportunities. Program EV- 1.3F Housing Production Partnerships Continue to foster strong working relationships with Marin Builders Association, the Marin Association of Realtors, commercial property owners, and local non-profit housing developers to reinforce the development of workforce housing, housing for lower-income residents, and opportunities to convert vacant commercial property to housing (see also Policies EV-1.8 and EV-1.9). CDD (Housing), ED Progress Staff continued to build and maintain relationships, including through representation of non-profit and for-profit developers on the City’s 2023-2031 Housing Element Working Group, which launched in late 2021. Additionally, the City has identified vacant commercial properties and included them in the draft list of housing opportunity sites for the 2023-2031 Housing Element. 168 See Goal EDI-5 for additional policies and programs on increasing economic opportunities for lower income residents Program EV- 1.4A Development Opportunities. Provide site location assistance to the real estate community and prospective businesses by maintaining an inventory of vacant and underutilized sites in the City, including vacant buildings. Inventory data should include allowable uses and intensity, site availability, and the potential for preferential tax treatment and other incentives due to Opportunity Zone or similar designations. ED No Action Program EV- 1.4B Permit and Technical Assistance. Provide advocacy services to assist local businesses in the permitting and development processes. Seek opportunities to innovate with technology to help improve service delivery. Simplify and streamline the permit process wherever feasible. CDD No Action Program EV- 1.4C Small Business Support. Partner with the Marin Small Business Development Center and other organizations to provide small business advisory and training opportunities including business plan development, marketing and social media, human resources strategies, and access to capital/investment. ED Progress Worked with Marin Small Business Development Center to market minority- owned small business grant funding opportunities. Program EV- 1.4D Business Incubation. Encourage business mentoring, education, and incubation programs that could be undertaken in cooperation with public, institutional and/or private sector partners (for example, Marin Builder’s Exchange, College of Marin Career Education, etc.). ED No Action 169 Program EV- 1.4E Business Recognition. Support recognition programs for exemplary businesses, such as annual awards programs. ED No Action Program EV- 1.5A Industry Clusters and Supply Chains. Identify desired industries and develop economic development programs to attract these types of businesses. Encourage supply chains for such industries and encourage business-to- business relationships. ED No Action Program EV- 1.7A Media Relations. Generate media coverage that communicates a positive image of San Rafael and increases recognition of the city as a great place to do business. Implement social media strategies that reinforce this message. ED Ongoing Program EV- 1.7B Competitive Edge. Market San Rafael’s competitive edge relative to other Marin cities and mid-sized Bay Area cities. San Rafael’s branding should highlight the City’s reputation as the business, civic, cultural, dining, and entertainment hub of Marin County. See also Policy CDP-5.10 on historic preservation as an economic development strategy. ED Ongoing Program EV- 1.8A Benefits of Workforce Housing. Work with local partners to educate residents on the benefits of workforce housing to the community. CDD (Housing) No Action Program EV- 1.8B Public Agency Partnerships. Work with local school districts and other agencies to explore opportunities to build housing for teachers, public safety employees, and other essential service employees on public land. CDD (Housing), CM, ED, PW, No Action 170 Program EV- 1.9A Workforce Development Programs. Support the efforts of businesses, labor organizations, non- profits, schools, and the public sector to provide job training and placement services. Consider opportunities for these initiatives to support other City goals, such as reducing homelessness (e.g., Downtown Streets Team.), building housing (e.g., Education to Career Construction Program) and improving wildlife habitat (e.g., California Conservation Corps, etc.). CDD (Housing), ED Ongoing Program EV- 1.9B Mentoring Programs. Continue to participate in mentoring, apprenticeship, and internship programs, including participation in programs run by other agencies and organizations. ED No Action Program EV- 1.9C English as a Second Language. Continue to support community wide efforts to provide English as a Second Language (ESL) training, citizenship, and other educational programs for the San Rafael workforce. See Goal EDI-5 for additional policies and actions on workforce development ED Ongoing Program EV- 1.10A Green Economy. Support the creation of environmentally beneficial jobs and businesses. ED, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program EV- 1.10B Green Business Practices. Coordinate with Marin County, environmental organizations and the Chamber of Commerce to promote greener business practices and participation in the County’s Green Business Program. ED, CM (Sustainability) No Action Program EV- 1.10C CCAP Implementation. Work with local business to help achieve the goals of the 2030 Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP), including a shift toward renewable energy, reduced waste, increased composting, and low-carbon ED, CM (Sustainability) No Action 171 transportation. The potential costs, as well as the potential savings or other benefits, of CCAP measures on businesses should be important considerations as programs are implemented. Program EV- 1.11A Business Engagement. Actively engage the business community in disaster preparedness planning and recovery. ED, FIRE Ongoing Ongoing via PDEP (Public Disaster Education and Preparedness) and the EMBR program. Program EV- 1.11B Education on State Regulations. Provide information and outreach to businesses on new (and potential) State mandates and regulations, particularly those related to climate change. Explore ways to mitigate cost impacts based on consultation with local businesses and organizations. See the Community Services Element for policies and programs on microgrids and electrical reliability, and the Safety Element for policies on resilience to climate change and sea level rise. CM (Sustainability) No Action Program EV- 1.12A Innovation Working Group. Convene an economic development and innovation working group to identify new business opportunities and prospects for innovation and diversification. ED No Action Program EV- 2.1A Retail Evaluations. Periodically evaluate the performance of the City’s retailers. Use the data to help improve retail performance or assist centers with attracting other compatible uses. ED No Action Program EV- 2.2A Local Shopping Campaigns. Support campaigns to “Shop Locally” and raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local businesses rather than purchasing on-line. ED Ongoing Program EV- 2.2B Event Promotion. Continue to promote events that bring people to Downtown, Northgate and ED Ongoing 172 other community commercial centers to support local businesses. Program EV- 2.2C Local Preference. Where other factors (such as price) are equal, the City should give preference to purchasing goods and services from both local vendors and minority-owned businesses. CM, ED No Action Program EV- 2.2D Day and Evening Visitors. In the Downtown and North San Rafael Town Center areas, attract a variety of retail businesses to encourage patronage during both day and evening hours. ED No Action Program EV- 2.3A Industrial Zoning. Maintain zoning for industrial areas to prevent a loss of industrial businesses (see also Program LU -2.4A on industrial zoning). CDD Ongoing Program EV- 2.4A Responding to Workplace Trends. Work with local office building owners, managers and tenants to respond to changing workplace design requirements (including those related to public health) and to adapt to trends such as increased telecommuting and co-working. ED Ongoing Program EV- 2.5A Tourism Strategies. Explore strategies to enhance local tourism, improve hotel and conference facilities, attract destination restaurants and stores, and support tourism programs of the Chamber, Downtown Business Improvement District, and Marin County Visitors Bureau. ED Ongoing Program EV- 2.5B Downtown Arts District. Support the Downtown Cultural Arts District through marketing, programs, and partnerships (see also Program AC-1.8A). ED Ongoing 173 Program EV- 2.5C Special Events. Encourage special events and festivals that draw visitors to San Rafael, showcase its vibrant arts and cultural scene, and have net positive effects on local businesses and City revenues. Work with local retailers to ensure they can remain open and easily accessible when these events take place (see also Policies AC -1.7 and LU-3.11). ED Ongoing Program EV- 2.5D Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT). Explore ways to increase economic development program funding through TOT revenues. See the Land Use Element for policies on home occupations. See the Mobility Element for policies on telecommuting, flextime, and other strategies to reduce peak hour commuting. See the Arts and Culture Element for additional discussion of the arts and entertainment sector. ED No Action Program EV- 2.7A Civic Center Modernization. Support County efforts to update the Marin County Civic Center and expand its capacity to host conferences and special events. ED, L&R No Action Program EV- 2.7B Higher Education Partnerships. Cultivate relationships with Dominican University and other Bay Area institutions of higher learning to facilitate local economic development. Consider opportunities for Dominican to increase its visibility in the community, including occupying underutilized space in Downtown or Northgate Town Center buildings. ED Ongoing Program EV- 3.1A Zoning Regulations. Ensure that zoning and development regulations for each business area support their success and contribution to the City’s economy. CDD, ED Ongoing 174 Program EV- 3.1B Quality of Life Programs. Implement and support programs to improve the safety, security, cleanliness, and convenience of San Rafael’s business districts so that they are places where customers want to shop, dine, and visit. Providing a comfortable, enjoyable experience for resid ents, workers, and visitors is an important part of remaining competitive. ED Ongoing Program EV- 3.2A Business Improvement Districts. Support the use of BIDs to improve services to business districts and provide a funding source for localized improvements. ED Ongoing Program EV- 3.2B Public Private Partnerships. Encourage public/private partnerships as one means of revitalizing deteriorated and underdeveloped area (see also Policy CSI-5.6). ED No Action Program EV- 3.2C Business Assistance Programs. Explore the feasibility of programs to assist local businesses with property improvements, such as landscaping, signage, façade improvements, and design assistance. ED No Action Program EV- 3.6A Business/Neighbor Collaboration. Seek innovative ways for businesses and their residential neighbors to work together toward a mutual vision that is beneficial to the community. ED Ongoing Program EV- 3.8A Pre-Submittal Process. Improve the efficiency of the development review process by updating neighborhood notification and meeting procedures and improving the pre-submittal process to identify initial concerns and encourage higher quality applications. CDD Ongoing EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION ELEMENT 175 Effectiveness of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Element in attainment of San Rafael’s equity, diversity, and inclusion goals: • Goal EDI-1: Authentic and Inclusive Public Participation • Goal EDI-4: Equitable Service Delivery • Goal EDI-2: Healthy Communities and Environmental Justice • Goal EDI-5: Access to Education and Economic Opportunity • Goal EDI-3: Housing Stability • Goal EDI-6: An Age-Friendly Community PROGRAM PROGRAM DESCRIPTION DEPT STATUS PROGRESS IN 2021 Program EDI- 1.1A Training and Education. Provide training and education on issues of equity and inclusion for City staff, Boards and Commissions, and advisory groups. This should include information about best practices in inclusive civic leadership. HR Ongoing Program EDI- 1.1B Equity Plan. Prepare a citywide Equity Strategic Plan or similar document that provides guidance on ways to incorporate equity into City practices and procedures. Metrics to measure progress, including goals for public participation, should be developed and monitored after Plan adoption. HR No Action Program EDI- 1.1C Community Dialogue on Race and Equity. Provide opportunities for ongoing community dialogue on issues of race and equity, including anti-racism education and sanctioned space for public expression. HR No Action Program EDI- 1.2A Community Stakeholders. Actively provide engagement opportunities for all residents through outreach programs specifically aimed at those who are under-represented in public processes, such as immigrant communities, people of color, youth, and younger families. Use creative and community-driven methods for reaching under-represented groups, such as markets, churches, home visits, school events, cultural activities, and informal social networks. CM No Action 176 Program EDI- 1.2B San Rafael Website. Use the City’s website and social media presence to improve participation in City government and increase access to City information and documents. CM Ongoing Program EDI- 1.2C Scheduling of Meetings. Schedule public meetings and workshops at times and locations convenient to community members. Where feasible, provide child care, food, and other services to make meeting attendance easier. CM, CDD, PW, L&R No Action Program EDI- 1.2D District Elections. Optimize the opportunity for district-based elections to increase resident participation in local government, particularly among Latino residents (for example, by considering Commission appointments by District). City Clerk, CM No Action Program EDI- 1.2E CEAP Update. Update the 2015 San Rafael Community Engagement Action Plan (CEAP) to implement General Plan 2040 EDI policies and programs. CM No Action Program EDI- 1.3A Removing Language Barriers. Ensure that Latino and other non-English-speaking populations may actively participate in local decision-making through such methods as bilingual notices, translation of meeting materials, the use of accessible (non-jargon) and culturally competent language, Spanish language meetings, new platforms for commenting (such as Facebook and Zoom), and having interpreters at public meetings. CM, Digital Progress The City has started using Alboum for translation of materials including the Spanish version of Snapshot. Program EDI- 1.3B Surveys. Regularly use multilingual, culturally appropriate surveys, focus groups, and other outreach methods to solicit input from under- represented communities. When funding is available, outsource survey work to community CM, CDD, PW, L&R No Action 177 organizations with engagement grants or stipends for participation (see also Program CSI-5.3B and PROS-2.2B on surveys). Program EDI- 1.3C Regularly Scheduled Community Meetings. Convene regularly scheduled meetings with businesses and residents in lower income areas to address local priorities, report out on program implementation, and support shared leadership and decision -making. CM, CDD, PW, L&R, ED No Action Program EDI- 1.4A Advocacy Programs. Support training, education, and advocacy programs by local institutions and social service providers to address the issues facing San Rafael’s lower income, immigrant, older adult, and LGBTQ populations, as well as others who have historically faced discrimination or have special needs. CM, L&R No Action Program EDI- 1.4B Collaborations. Collaborate with local community-based organizations to develop and implement strategies to engage under- represented groups or populations with unique issues. CM, CDD, PW, L&R No Action Program EDI- 1.5A Board and Commission Diversity. Monitor the composition of City Boards and Commissions, making efforts to provide representation that mirrors the city. When filling vacancies, focus recruitment and outreach efforts on under- represented populations. CM No Action Program EDI- 1.5B Public Input. Encourage public input at Board, Commission, and Committee meetings. Clearly identify issues, actions, and ways to comment, and provide information early enough to allow meaningful participation. CM, CDD, PW, L&R No Action 178 Program EDI- 1.6A Youth-Focused Outreach. Work with local school districts, schools, youth and student groups, colleges, universities, and community- based organizations to increase youth involvement in local government and public processes. This could include school “clubs” organized around topics of interest. Youth engagement should be inclusive and reflective of San Rafael’s demographics (see also Program EDI-5.2A on “Buddy” programs). CM, L&R No Action Program EDI- 2.1A Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements. Implement pedestrian and bicycle improvements, as described in the General Plan Land Use and Mobility Elements and the San Rafael Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. This should include improved safety features, streetscape and landscape improvements, and other improvements that make it safer, easier, and more comfortable to be physically active in San Rafael, particularly in neighborhoods with less access to these features today. PW No Action Program EDI- 2.1B Public Health as an Evaluation Metric. Consider public health data such as rates of asthma, heart disease, and obesity when prioritizing capital improvements such as bike lanes, new parks, and sidewalk improvements. See also Goals M-5 and M-6 on connected, pedestrian-friendly streets PW No Action Program EDI- 2.2A Increasing Usable Public Space. Pursue opportunities for additional programmed public outdoor space, with a priority on higher density neighborhoods. Consider the use of City-owned vacant lots or rights-of-way as improved open space. PW No Action 179 Program EDI- 2.3A HEAL Campaign. Participate in the Marin Countywide Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) campaign, supporting actions that transform the physical environment to improve health, well- being, and physical activity. CM, L&R No Action Program EDI- 2.3B Health Fairs. Encourage multilingual community health fairs and other events that raise awareness of public health among all residents. Demonstrate best practices for public health and wellness at City-sponsored activities, such as serving healthy foods and encouraging walking and bicycling to the event. CM, L&R No Action Program EDI- 2.3C Municipal Code Review. Periodically evaluate City codes and ordinances for their impact on health, including provisions for tobacco, vaping, and smoke-free multi-family housing; standards for indoor air quality; and HVAC systems able to sustain safe living conditions during wildfires, power outages, and extreme weather events. CM, L&R, CDD, FIRE, PW, PD Progress The City is working on amending Sections 9.04.030, 9.04.090 and 19.10.060 of the San Rafael Municipal Code to prohibit smoking in open space year-round and require designated smoking areas in multi-family housing complexes with over 10 units located within 1,000 feet from open space and undeveloped lots in order to prevent cigarette-caused fires. Program EDI- 2.4A Local Health Care Facilities. Support the development of easily accessed health care and medical facilities in the city, including access to mental health services. CDD No Action Program EDI- 2.5A Reducing Exposure to Hazards. As appropriate, utilize conditional use permit requirements for businesses adjacent to residential neighborhoods to reduce resident exposure to noise, odor, smoke, vibration, and other potentially harmful impacts. Work with business owners to encourage responsiveness when these issues arise. CDD, PW Ongoing In 2019, Planning, Building, Public Works and Fire evaluated all conditional use permits for noise, odor, smoke, vibration, and other potentially harmful impacts through requesting information such as specification sheets and ensuring that they meet the standards as prescribe in the San Rafael Municipal Code. When the City received complaints regarding any hazards; Code Enforcement, Fire, and/or PD was 180 dispatched immediately to address any concerns or issues. Program EDI- 2.5B Reducing Indoor Air Pollution. Support the distribution of bilingual information on indoor air pollution hazards to vulnerable populations, including lower income renters. Respond to complaints about smoke and odors in multi-family projects and facilitate remediation. CDD (Code Enforcement) No Action Program EDI- 2.5C Environmental Hazard Data. Maintain data on environmental hazards, such as soil and groundwater contamination and the vulnerability of the population to such hazards, using sources such as Cal Enviroscreen. See the Safety Element for policies and programs to (a) require health risk assessments for new development near freeways and (b) reduce exposure to hazardous materials, including contaminated sites and new uses handling hazardous substances. See the Conservation and Climate Change Element for policies to improve air quality, and the Mobility Element for policies to encourage cleaner fuel vehicles. CM (Sustainability), Digital No Action Program EDI- 2.6A Greening Priorities. Prioritize City-sponsored urban greening and tree planting projects in residential areas that currently have lower rates of tree cover, higher residential densities, and limited access to open space (for example, the Canal area and Montecito). CM (Sustainability) No Action Program EDI-.8A Incentives. Explore incentives for small local markets to offer healthier food options for nearby residents. ED No Action Program EDI- 2.9A Obstacles to Food Production. Review, and revise as needed, San Rafael’s zoning regulations and codes to identify and remove barriers to CDD Progress The Planning Division plans to evaluate all code sections in the San Rafael Municipal Code in 2022 to ensure that urban 181 urban gardening and small-scale food production in residential neighborhoods. gardening and small-scale food production is a permitted use in residential districts. Program EDI- 3.1A Anti-Displacement Strategies. Evaluate anti- displacement strategies in future plans or programs that could result in the direct removal of affordable housing units, the displacement of tenants, or economic hardships due to rapid rent increases. CDD (Housing) Progress In March 2021, the City adopted an ordinance that requires owners of property located in the opportunity zone to pay relocation assistance if evicting tenants for renovation. The City continued its mandatory mediation program for rent increases greater than 5%. The City released a Notice of Funding Availability in 2021 and in early 2022 reserved funding through its Affordable Housing Trust Fund for a project to convert existing units in the Canal neighborhood to permanently affordable. Program EDI- 3.1B Renter Protection Measures. Continue to explore and promote measures to protect San Rafael renters and facilitate positive communication between landlords and tenants. CDD (Housing), City Attorney Progress On July 17, 2019, the City Council adopted the San Rafael’s Rental Housing Dispute Ordinance. The Ordinance allows for a Tenant or Landlord to request a mediation for rent increases greater than 5% during a 12-month period. This would facilitate positive communication between landlords and tenants. The City continued to offer this program in 2021 through the District Attorney’s Office. Program EDI- 3.1C Climate-Related Displacement. Consider measures to address the potential for loss or displacement of affordable or lower cost housing in the City’s climate change adaptation planning. CDD (Housing), CM (Sustainability) No Action Program EDI- 3.4A Healthy Homes. Support programs and regulations that support healthier homes, including the abatement of toxic hazards such as lead and mold, the use of non-toxic materials and finishes, and design features that improve ventilation and indoor air quality. CDD No Action 182 Program EDI- 3.5A Code Enforcement. Provide effective code enforcement efforts in all neighborhoods to abate unsafe or unsanitary conditions. Ensure that the abatement of violations does not increase housing cost burdens or result in displacement of lower- income households. CDD (Code Enforcement) Ongoing Program EDI- 3.5B Rental Inspections. Continue the Periodic Housing Inspection Program and Residential Building Record (RBR) inspections to ensure the safety and habitability of all housing units. CDD (Code Enforcement) Ongoing Program EDI- 3.6A Incentives for Family Housing. Consider density bonuses and other incentives for three- bedroom affordable rental units in new construction to meet the need for housing suitable for larger families and extended households. CDD No Action Program EDI- 3.7A Temporary Housing for At Risk Groups. Work with community-based organizations to develop and support temporary housing solutions for lower-income immigrants, older adults, and other at-risk groups during and after an emergency. CDD (Housing) Progress As part of COVID-19 response, City staff and CBOs assisted households in applying for Emergency Rental Assistance through Marin County. The City distributed information in English and Spanish to raise awareness of the temporary eviction moratorium. Program EDI- 4.1A Equity Metrics. Use benchmarks and indicators such as household income, the presence of children and older adults, and past investment patterns, to inform decisions about the location of future public investments. ED, CM No Action Program EDI- 4.2A Nuisance Reporting Systems. Support programs that allow residents and businesses to easily report incidences of illegal dumping, roadside garbage and litter, vandalism, graffiti, noise, smoke and fumes, and other nuisances. Maintain data on calls, responses, and follow-up activities. Digital Progress In 2019, the City was using 311 as a resident request system however the contract with CP Connect will be sunsetting on April 20, 2022. The vendor is offering to migrate the City to an alternative solution, SeeClickFix. In order to guarantee the success of a new 311 implementation for San Rafael, Digital is partnering with 183 departments to determine their needs around resident request and complaint tracking. Program EDI- 4.2B Security and Safety Improvements. Pursue public safety improvements, including street lighting, security cameras, better wayfinding signage, and improved sidewalk conditions, with a focus on neighborhoods with higher levels of need and fewer available resources. PW, PD Ongoing Program EDI- 4.3A Neighborhood Safety Partnerships. Encourage partnerships between lower-income residents and local police to address law enforcement concerns, including organized events such as neighborhood walks and police “walking the beat” to create personal relationships and learn about community issues. PD No Action Program EDI- 4.4A Mobile Health Care. Facilitate the use of public buildings such as libraries and community centers for “pop up” health services and other activities that promote wellness. L&R Worked with health partners to offer COVID testing and vaccine clinics as well as blood drives at the Albert J Boro and San Rafael Community Centers. Program EDI- 4.5A Food Assistance Programs. Support resident access to food assistance programs, including local food banks and food stamp programs. Encourage the acceptance of food subsidy vouchers at retail food outlets throughout San Rafael. ED No Action Program EDI- 4.5B Reduced Cost Meals. Encourage free and reduced cost meal programs for those with the greatest needs, including low income children, seniors, and persons experiencing homelessness. L&R, CM (Homelessness) Progress Offered COVID friendly, free, drive up meals for older adults weekly at the Albert J. Boro Community Center. Continue to host weekly SF/Marin Food Bank distribution in the Center’s parking lot. 184 Program EDI- 4.6A Connecting Social Service Providers. Increase awareness of social service and mental health programs by improving communication between residents and service providers, facilitating communication among the service providers themselves, and providing more opportunity for interaction between residents and city leaders. CM No Action Program EDI- 4.6B Collaborative Service Model. Encourage and support collaborative efforts to address local health care and social service needs, including partnerships with community-based organizations and service providers, partnerships with the County of Marin and other Marin cities, and interdepartmental efforts within the City of San Rafael. CM No Action Program EDI- 4.7A Transit Improvements. Work with Marin Transit, SMART, and GGBHTD to collect and analyze data on the workplace location of San Rafael’s transit- dependent population so that transit routes and schedules are responsive to needs, and optimally serve those without cars. PW No Action Program EDI- 4.7B Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements. Prioritize pedestrian and bicycle improvements in areas where the concentration of pedestrians and bicycles is highest, and where residents have fewer resources and options to travel. Improve access to bicycles, helmets, and related equipment for lower income families. PW No Action Program EDI- 5.1A Business Partnerships. Support partnerships with local employers to make child care more affordable and accessible for low-wage workers. Quantify the potential benefits to employers to help make these services available. ED No Action 185 Program EDI- 5.2A Buddy Programs. Collaborate with the school districts to develop “buddy” or “host” programs enabling San Rafael families to provide social, cultural, and academic support to English learners and new students from other countries. L&R No Action Program EDI- 5.2B Cultural Competency. Ensure that the City uses culturally appropriate strategies and messaging when providing information to students and parents regarding extra-curricular activities. L&R, CM No Action Program EDI- 5.3A Financial Aid. Raise student and family awareness of opportunities for grants, scholarships, internships, and programs that provide financial assistance for education and career development. L&R Progress Recreation Division restructured its Recreation Scholarship Program in 2021 and are more widely advertising it to the San Rafael residents. Program EDI- 5.4A Youth Employment. Encourage youth training and employment programs, partnerships with the private sector and community-based organizations, and similar measures to improve career opportunities for younger San Rafael residents. L&R, ED, CM No Action Program 5.6A Measuring Workforce Contributions. Develop data to quantify the contribution of San Rafael’s low- and moderate-income workforce to the local and regional economies. Use this data to develop responsive economic development policies and programs and increase the safety net for critical low-income workers. ED No Action Program EDI- 5.7A Business Assistance. Explore opportunities to assist San Rafael’s small businesses and entrepreneurs, including minority-owned businesses. This should include partnerships with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and similar organizations. ED Progress Worked with Marin Small Business Development Center with outreach to minority-owned small businesses to obtain grant funding. 186 Program EDI- 5.7B Hiring Incentives. Support incentives for contractors and builders to hire local workers, with a focus on increasing business opportunities for lower-income tradespersons. ED No Action Program EDI- 5.8A Opportunity Zone. Continue to evaluate the potential benefits of the designation of the Core Canal Census Tract as an “opportunity zone” by the State of California, including possible funding for transit, affordable housing, and capital improvements. Activities related to the Opportunity Zone designation should include specific provisions to minimize the displacement of residents and businesses. CDD, PW No Action Program EDI- 5.9A Cooperatives. Encourage cooperate ownership of assets such as housing, vacant land, local energy systems, and incubator business space as a way to reduce business operating costs. ED No Action Program EDI- 5.9B Community Benefit. Recognize below market space for community-based organizations as a community benefit that triggers eligibility for density or height bonuses in new development. CDD No Action Program EDI- 5.10A Access to On-Line Learning and Work. Support efforts to provide all students with access to on- line learning and the capacity to work remotely. Work with local service providers to improve access for lower income households, especially households with children. ED, L&R No Action Program EDI- 6.1A Age Friendly Plan. Prepare an Age-Friendly Strategic Plan for San Rafael that identifies specific and culturally responsive actions to ensure that older adults may thrive in the community. Periodically monitor progress on Plan L&R, PW, FIRE PD, CDD Progress In 2020, the San Rafael Age-Friendly Task Force completed the planning phase, assessment and the Age Friendly San Rafael Strategic Action Plan. The outreach effort included conducting ageism training - 187 implementation, consistent with WHO Age- Friendly Global Network guidelines. "Reframing Aging " with the FrameWorks Institute, key informant interviews and a community survey in English and Spanish. On March 15, 2021, San Rafael City Council formally accepted the Age-Friendly Strategic Plan. City staff continue to meet regularly with the Age-Friendly Task Force. Program EDI- 6.2A Aging in Place. Continue to support programs and services that assist older adults with home modifications that facilitate aging in place. Support home sharing programs that pair empty nesters with rental seekers. L&R, CDD (Housing) Ongoing The City allocated a portion of CDBG public services funding to Covia Foundation – Home Match Marin, which provides a roommate matching service mainly used by older adults. Benefits of the program include providing a means for older residents to remain in their homes and to supplement incomes, while avoiding isolation. Program EDI- 6.2B Affordable Housing Options for Older Adults. Encourage the construction of affordable senior housing, and accessory dwelling units that provide more affordable alternatives for older adults. Also, support programs that provide direct and indirect assistance for older renters. CDD (Housing) Progress The City released a Notice of Funding Availability in 2021 and in early 2022 funded a project through its Affordable Housing Trust Fund that will provide 66 affordable studio and one-bedroom apartments for adults age 62 and older. The bottom two floors of the building will contain the Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus, which will provide support services, activities, and wellness, as well as a central meeting place for older adults, as a means of extending independent living and supporting quality of life for aging adults in the community. The City revised its Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance in 2021 to comply with state law. Since the passage of state laws streamlining ADU development, the City has seen a substantial increase in ADU construction. Program EDI- 6.3A On-Demand Transportation Services. Improve on-demand transportation options for older adults, including volunteer driver programs and programs pairing new student drivers with seniors. CM No Action 188 Program EDI- 6.3B Universal Access. Incorporate principles of universal access in the design of public facilities, sidewalks, and outdoor spaces and buildings. Reduce risks associated with falling and improve lighting and sidewalk conditions in areas where hazards may exist. PW, CDD Ongoing Program EDI- 6.4A Access to Resources. Improve access to community programs and resources for older adults, including increased on-line services and technology training and partnerships with Marin County In-Home Supportive Services. CM, Digital Progress There is a plan to conduct usability testing with Age Friendly San Rafael in the rollout of new services. Program EDI- 6.5A Outreach and Education. Engage older adults in focused disaster preparedness outreach and education, emergency and shelter-in-place drills, wildfire prevention programs, and evacuation plans. Focus on older adults with the greatest needs, including in-home support. FIRE, L&R Ongoing Fire has provided multiple trainings to partners such as Vivalon, and collaborated with Age Friendly to do outreach at Dining Under the Lights. Program EDI- 6.6A Inclusion and Participation Initiatives. Provide opportunities for social connections, including discounted or free community events, intergenerational programs (for example, pairings of students and older adults), mental health services, multicultural programs, and working with organizations such as Marin Villages to engage and empower older adults. L&R No Action