HomeMy WebLinkAboutED Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District____________________________________________________________________________________
FOR CITY CLERK ONLY
Council Meeting: May 1, 2023
Disposition: Resolutions 15209 x 15210 x 15211 x 15212
Agenda Item No: 6.a
Meeting Date: May 1, 2023
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Department: Economic Development and Innovation
Prepared by: Micah Hinkle,
Economic Development Director
City Manager Approval: ______________
TOPIC: DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
SUBJECT: APPROVAL OF ACTIONS SUPPORTING THE DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT CAPACITY BUILDING AND MANAGEMENT:
I. RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A DOWNTOWN BUSINESS
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT MANAGEMENT AND ENHANCEMENT
AGREEMENT WITH THE SAN RAFAEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN AN
AMOUNT OF $100,000
ii.RESOLUTION APPOINTING DOWNTOWN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
iii.RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND
EXECUTE A DOWNTOWN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
TRANSITION AGREEMENT WITH THE DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (BID CORPORATION) IN AN AMOUNT
OF $5,000
IV.RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE DOWNTOWN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINES
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
1.Adopt Resolution Appropriating Funds and Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and
Execute a Downtown Business Improvement District Management and Enhancement
Agreement with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce in an Amount of $100,000
2.Adopt Resolution Appointing Downtown Business Improvement District Advisory Board
Members
3. Adopt Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and Execute a Downtown
Business Improvement District Transition Agreement with the Downtown San Rafael
Business Improvement District (BID Corporation) in an Amount of $5,000
4.Adopt Resolution Adopting the Downtown Business Improvement District Administrative
Guidelines
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Since 1979, the Downtown San Rafael business district has supported assessments to support economic
vitality. The assessment has been collected through the provisions of the California Streets and
Highways Code and are authorized by City Council on an annual basis. Business Improvement District
funds are collected through the City’s annual business license process and passed through to the San
Rafael Business Improvement District, a California non-profit mutual benefit corporation (BID
Corporation) for management, marketing, and support of business activities within the district boundaries.
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly reduced the businesses and collections of BID
assessments in Downtown and have triggered the BID Corporation to modify operations and use reserve
funds. With the uncertainty of business recovery from the pandemic and the shifting needs of the
Downtown San Rafael, the BID Corporation, San Rafael Chamber of Commerce (Chamber), and the City
have been working together to support a transition pathway for long-term growth of Downtown San
Rafael.
For the next two years, the identified pathway to support Downtown BID operations and support the
business community is to enter into a BID management and enhancement agreement with the Chamber.
The Chamber would be able to provide management, fiscal oversight, operations, and annual reporting,
build business support capacity, and explore BID enhancements through a contractual agreement with
the City. The intent is to continue the Downtown BID program operations over the next two years and to
evaluate the business and property owner needs and recommend modifications to the BID Program for
long-term sustainability.
To retain BID programmatic consistencies, it is recommended that the current BID Corporation Board of
Directors be appointed as the City’s BID Advisory Board with an additional Board appointee
recommended by the Chamber of Commerce and, if the agreement with the Chamber is approved, the
City’s BID Advisory Board would be supported by the Chamber. While there is a recommended change
in the BID management entity, the business community stakeholders and interested parties would remain
the same.
BACKGROUND:
Section 36500 of the California Streets and Highways Code allows for the creation of a business
improvement district (BID) within a municipality, whereby businesses within the district self-assess an
annual fee to pay for improvements and activities which benefit the overall business district. The intent
of the state law is to provide a funding mechanism for business districts to promote economic vitality.
In 1979, businesses in Downtown San Rafael first voted to set up a business improvement district. This
original district included approximately 125 businesses along Fourth Street between Lincoln Avenue and
E Street. In 2013, the BID was expanded and now includes approximately 700 businesses along the
downtown core anchored along the Fourth Street corridor (See Attachment with map of the BID district).
The BID Corporation was created to receive the collected BID assessments and implement and manage
programs supporting businesses within the district boundaries. Funds have been spent on program
administration, marketing, physical improvements, and special events. Historically, special events have
been the core program focus of collected assessment funds.
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3
The BID Corporation is comprised of volunteer board of directors made up of primarily small business
owners or business representatives within the BID boundaries. The BID Corporation currently employs
a part-time executive director. The City Council has typically appointed the BID Corporation Board of
Directors as the BID Advisory Board that is required by the San Rafael Municipal Code Section 10.09
(Downtown BID Ordinance).
On December 5, 2022, City Council authorized the 2023 annual business assessment for the Downtown
BID pursuant to the Downtown BID Ordinance. As part of the 2022 BID annual report, the BID fiscal
operations and underlying BID Corporation operations and structure were identified as areas for
exploration for operational efficiencies and strategic partnership between the BID Corporation, Chamber,
and the City. This expanded partnership exploration is a direct result of business recovery from the
COVID-19 pandemic, evolving business needs, and resources available in Downtown San Rafael. The
BID Corporation and Chamber have already moved toward some shared operational efficiencies with
office space. Over the past four months, the BID Corporation, Chamber, and City staff have worked on
developing a framework for operational efficiencies, continuance of Downtown BID programming, and
exploration of a pathway for long-term feasibility to enhance Downtown San Rafael.
ANALYSIS:
After collaborating with the BID Corporation and Chamber representatives about shared goals, City staff
have developed the following actions to support the downtown and utilize the synergies of the BID
Corporation, Chamber and City:
Business Improvement District Management and Enhancement Agreement – San Rafael Chamber of
Commerce:
The San Rafael Chamber of Commerce is the premier business organization in Marin County and has
been a key partner supporting economic recovery and development initiatives, including small business
support, economic development strategic planning, and support of economic vitality through business
expansion, attraction, and retention. The cross-memberships and existing partnerships with downtown
businesses and property owners allow the Chamber to have an in-depth understanding of business
needs and growth opportunities. The Chamber’s organizational capacity would allow them to step into
BID management and implementation and allow a transitional partnership with the BID Corporation and
the City. If approved by the Council, it is envisioned that the Chamber would be able to support the
Council appointed BID Advisory Board, continue BID programming for the downtown business
community and explore programmatic BID enhancements. Tasks would include engagement of property
owners and business outreach associated with feasibility and needs analysis of a property-based
improvement district or rate modifications to the business improvement district to establish a sustainable
fiscal model for an enhanced San Rafael Downtown. The contract would be for an amount of $100,000
($50,000 annually) for a two-year term, funded using City COVID-19 relief funds.
Appointment of 2023 Business Improvement District Advisory Board:
The City Council is required to appoint a BID Advisory Board. Listed below is the relevant text from the
San Rafael Municipal Code:
10.09.080 - Advisory board and annual report.
The city council shall appoint an advisory board pursuant to Streets and Highways Code Section 36501
et seq. to administer the affairs of the BID. Members of the advisory board must own or represent a
business in the BID, or be a voluntary member. The advisory board shall prepare an annual report for
each year for which assessments are to be levied. The report shall be filed with the city clerk and shall
comply with all requirements as stated in Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq.
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 4
The City Council-appointed BID Advisory Board has historically been the same as the Board of Directors
for the BID Corporation. The last City Council appointed BID Advisory Board was in 2017 with terms that
expired during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The City has not appointed an updated 2023 BID Advisory
Board as members of the BID Corporation Board have changed since the last Council BID Advisory
Board appointments. It is recommended that the City Council appoint the current BID Corporation Board
of Directors with an addition of a Chamber of Commerce recommended appointment to the Business
Improvement District Advisory Board to maintain programmatic consistency, meet required membership,
and serve as the Board advisors for the Business Improvement District. The recommended BID Advisory
Board Members for 2023 are:
Name Business
Terrance Thornton San Rafael Martial Arts
Adam Dawson Mike’s Bikes
Erika Bowker Pleasures of the Heart
Jeff Brusati T & B Sports
Amy & Bishlam Bullock Salon B Style Lab (1 Vote)
Joe McCallum Newmark*
Jed Greene Five Corners Consulting Group
Tobi Lessem Bodywise Massage
Kelly Phu Vin Antico
Morgan Schauffler Youth in Arts
Elisabeth Setten Artworks Downtown
*Chamber Recommendation
The BID Advisory Board term is recommended to be for the calendar year 2023. This would allow the
BID Board oversight to remain in place during the proposed transition and allow for the BID Board and
Chamber of Commerce to query interested and eligible businesses owners, representatives, and
volunteers to make recommendations to the City Council for the 2024 BID Board as part of the Annual
reporting for the BID, which would return to City Council in November/December of 2023.
BID Corporation Transition Agreement:
The exploration of BID program enhancement, capacity building, and support has been over the past few
years a focus of City staff given the growing and changing needs of the Downtown business community.
The BID Corporation has been adapting to the pandemic impacts by evaluating and implementing
operational efficiencies and seeking partnerships to strengthen shared targeted outcomes.
Unfortunately, sustainable revenue generation continues to erode BID viability. The Chamber and BID
Corporation share a cross membership of businesses and have aligned goals for supporting and
enhancing the San Rafael downtown and business community. As a pathway for transitioning the
administrative and operational burden of the BID program, the City, Chamber, and BID Corporation have
developed a transition framework between the City and BID Corporation to shift administrative and
operational responsibilities and complete financial reporting requirements. It is anticipated that the
transition activities would be completed by June 2023. Transition tasks include completion of Special
Events: 1) May Madness and Dining Under the lights for May and June 2023. In addition, a financial
close out report will be provided. This timeframe would correspond with the proposed start of the
Chamber Agreement for BID Management.
BID Administrative Guidelines:
Lastly, staff recommends the Council adopt BID Administrative Guidelines. The administrative guidelines
provide the rules and procedures for the BID Advisory Board and the BID management entity to
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 5
administer and operate the affairs of the BID, including how the City Council appoints members of the
Advisory Board, how meetings of the BID Advisory Board are conducted in conformance with the Brown
Act, and requirements for the BID Advisory Board to submit an annual report and spend BID funds in
conformance with law. These guidelines will provide clarity to the Chamber of Commerce, the BID Board,
and the City on roles and responsibilities in administering assessments and affairs of the BID, and will
be incorporated into the Management and Enhancement Agreement with the Chamber.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Chamber BID Management/Enhancement Agreement: To support the transition and enhancement of the
Downtown BID, staff is recommending General Fund support of an amount of $100,000 ($50,000
annually) for a two-year term for the BID Management and Enhancement Agreement with the San Rafael
Chamber of Commerce. Staff is requesting an appropriation of $100,000 from the General Fund, using
COVID-19 relief funds, to support the downtown economic vitality.
BID Corporation Transition Agreement: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, typical BID collected funds
were approximately $83,000 annually. In 2022, the BID received approximately 25% less in assessment
collections in the amount of $61,600 and is projecting $60,000 for 2023. The BID Corporation is operating
at a deficit and has limited operational fund reserves. The transition agreement with the BID Corporation
would be funded using $15,000 from 2023 BID assessment funds for operational expenses and $5,000
from the Economic Development Department Professional Services budget to support financial closeout
reporting. The remaining 2023 BID funds will be held by the City until a BID Management and
Enhancement Agreement is authorized and executed with the Chamber of Commerce.
BID Advisory Board and BID Administrative Guidelines: There is no fiscal impact associated with
appointing the BID Advisory Board and adopting administrative guidelines.
OPTIONS:
The Downtown BID is a longstanding program supported by the business community and City for over
40 years. The staff recommended actions support community partnership opportunities to achieve
shared goals and outcomes and build business capacity with the business/community and partners.
The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter:
1. Approve staff’s recommended actions.
2. Adopt resolutions with modifications.
3. Direct staff to return with more information.
4. Take no action.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Adopt Resolution Appropriating Funds and Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and
Execute a Downtown Business Improvement District Management and Enhancement Agreement
with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce in an Amount of $100,000
2. Adopt Resolution Appointing Downtown Business Improvement District Advisory Board Members
3. Adopt Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate and Execute a Downtown Business
Improvement District Transition Agreement with the Downtown San Rafael Business
Improvement District (BID Corporation) in an Amount of $5,000
4. Adopt Resolution Adopting the Downtown Business Improvement District Administrative
Guidelines
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 6
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution Approving BID Management and Enhancement Agreement with San Rafael
Chamber of Commerce
2. Draft BID Management and Enhancement Agreement with San Rafael Chamber of Commerce
3. Resolution Appointing BID Advisory Board
4. Resolution Approving BID Transition Agreement with BID Corporation
5. Draft BID Transition Agreement with BID Corporation
6. Resolution Adopting BID Administrative Guidelines
7. BID Map
RESOLUTION NO. 15209
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL APPROPRIATING FUNDS AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT MANAGEMENT AND
ENHANCEMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE SAN RAFAEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
IN AN AMOUNT OF $100,000
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Cal. Strs. & Hwys.
Code § 36500 et seq. (“1989 Act”), authorizes cities to establish parking and business
improvement areas for the purpose of promoting economic revitalization and physical
maintenance of business districts in order to create jobs, attract new businesses and
prevent erosion of business districts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Act, in June 2013 the City Council of San Rafael
adopted Ordinance No. 1912 (“Ordinance”), codified in the San Rafael Municipal Code
(“SRMC”) Chapter 10.09, establishing the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement
District (“District”) to replace a former Parking and Business Improvements Area Business
Improvement District established in 1979; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance provides for the City’s collection of assessments on
approximately 700 businesses that operate within the District’s boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the revenues derived from the assessments are used for the general
promotion of business activities, public events, and other activities that provide a specific
benefit to the assessed businesses; and the acquisition, construction, installation and
maintenance of tangible property that provide a specific benefit to the assessed
businesses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 36530 of the 1989 Act and SRMC Section 10.09.080,
the Council appoints a District Advisory Board consisting of members that own or
represent a business in the District or voluntary members; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board administers the affairs of the District and prepares
an annual report each year describing which assessments are to be levied and files the
report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter 9
(commencing with Section 54950) of Part I of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code) at all times when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, and
the California Public Records Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of
Division 7 of Title I of the Government Code), for all records relating to activities of the
District; and
WHEREAS, each year, the District Advisory Board administers those revenues and uses
them for authorized purposes that benefit the assessed businesses and to prepare and
to submit the annual report to the City Clerk reporting activities and finances of the District;
and
WHEREAS, the Chamber is a California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation that is a
member-based business advocacy organization supporting local businesses of San
Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the businesses and
collections of District assessments and the District has operated with reserve funds; and
WHEREAS, with the uncertainty of business recovery from the pandemic and
improvement of economic conditions, the City believes that the District would benefit
from assistance of the Chamber to create capacity building and pathways for long-term
sustainability to support Downtown San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Chamber desire to enter into an Agreement for the Chamber
to provide management and enhancement services for the District.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby appropriates
$100,000 from the General Fund COVID-19 relief funds and authorizes the City Manager
to negotiate and execute a downtown business improvement district management and
enhancement agreement with the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce in an amount of
$100,000, subject to form approved by the City Attorney.
I, LINDSAY LARA, Clerk of the City of San Rafael, hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of San Rafael, held on Monday, the 1st day of May 2023, by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: Councilmembers: Bushey, Hill, Llorens Gulati & Mayor Kate
NOES: Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers: Kertz
Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
AGREEMENT FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND ENHANCEMENT
OF THE DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
This Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of July 1, 2023 (the "Effective Date"),
between the CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, a municipal corporation of the State of California
("City") and the SAN RAFAEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, a California nonprofit mutual
benefit corporation ("Chamber").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Cal. Strs. &
Hwys. Code § 36500 et seq. (" 1989 Act"), authorizes cities to establish parking and business
improvement areas for the purpose of promoting economic revitalization and physical
maintenance of business districts in order to create jobs, attract new businesses and prevent
erosion of business districts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Act, in June 2013 the City Council of San Rafael
adopted Ordinance No. 1912 ("Ordinance"), codified in the San Rafael Municipal Code
("SRMC") Chapter 10.09, establishing a reorganized Downtown San Rafael Business
Improvement District ("District") to replace a former Parking and Business Improvements
Area Business Improvement District established in 1979; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance extended the collection boundaries beyond ground floor
retail and provides for the City's collection of assessments on approximately 700 businesses
that operate within the District's boundaries including offices and financial institutions; and
WHEREAS, the revenues derived from the assessments are used for the general
promotion of business activities, public events, and other activities that provide a specific benefit
to the assessed businesses; and the acquisition, construction, installation and maintenance of
tangible property that provide a specific benefit to the assessed businesses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 36530 of the 1989 Act and SRMC Section 10.09.080,
the Council appoints a District Advisory Board consisting of members who own or represent a
business in the District or voluntary members ("District Advisory Board"); and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board's primary function is to administer the affairs
of the District and prepare an annual report each year describing which assessments are to be
levied and files the report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter
9 (commencing with Section 54950) of Part I of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government Code)
at all times when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, and the California
Public Records Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of Division 7 of Title I of
the Government Code), for all records relating to activities of the District; and
WHEREAS, a separate California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation - the San
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Rafael Business Improvement District — was established by representatives of businesses in the
District in 2012. This private corporation is referred to herein as the "BID Corporation" and its
Board of Directors is the "BID Corporation Board"; and
WHEREAS, the City Council from time to time has updated its appointments to the
District Advisory Board to be the same as the members of the BID Corporation Board; and
WHEREAS, each year, the City has distributed the District's assessment revenues to
the BID Corporation, and the District Advisory Board administers those revenues to ensure
that the BID Corporation uses them for authorized purposes that benefit the assessed
businesses and to prepare and to submit the annual report to the City Clerk reporting activities
and finances of the District; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber is a California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation that is a
member -based business advocacy organization supporting local businesses of San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber has been operating and serving the business community for
over one hundred years; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber staff has proven management skills, strong leadership and
financial acumen and has worked closely with City staff and BID Corporation staff for over 30
years; and
WHEREAS, the BID Corporation now operates in the Chamber's offices and has a
close working relationship with the Chamber; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the businesses and
collections of District assessments and the BID Corporation has operated with reserve funds;
and
WHEREAS, with the uncertainty of business recovery from the pandemic and
improvement of economic conditions, the City believes that the District would benefit from
assistance of the Chamber to create capacity building and pathways for long-term sustainability
to support Downtown San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber can provide leadership, governance and administrative
services in the execution of the District's activities; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Chamber desire to enter into this Agreement for the
Chamber to support City staff by providing fiscal oversight, operations, and annual reporting of
the District, and build capacity and explore District enhancements; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber is the best organization suited to provide this support during
a time of transition and help create capacity building and pathways for long-term sustainability
to support Downtown San Rafael; and
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WHEREAS, coincident with this Agreement, the City and the BID Corporation are
entering into a separate transition agreement under which the BID Corporation will transition
its affairs related to administration of the District and transfer all remaining District Funds back
to the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals and for other good and
sufficient consideration, the City and the Chamber agree as set forth herein.
AGREEMENT
1. The Chamber's Duties.
The Chamber will furnish all technical and professional services, including labor,
material, office space, equipment, transportation, supervision, and expertise to perform the
following duties:
a. District Management Services. The Chamber will perform the following
management services to the District (collectively, the "District Management
Services"):
i. Provide administrative oversight of the District and ensure that the affairs
and duties of the District Advisory Board are conducted in conformance
with the 1989 Act, Chapter 10.09 of the San Rafael Municipal Code (a copy
of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A), and the District Administrative
Guidelines (attached hereto as Exhibit B);
ii. Receive, hold and distribute District Funds, pursuant to paragraph 4 of this
Agreement;
iii. Develop the Annual Report and Budget for review and approval by the
District Advisory Board, and submit to the City Clerk;
iv. Monitor the Budget and ensure monthly financial reports are prepared and
presented to the District Advisory Board (including income statement,
balance sheet and budget performance);
V. Assist with annual planning calendar and preparation and implementation of
the District's meetings, District Advisory Board member selection
recommendations to the City Council, and annual reports;
vi. Schedule, plan and host meetings of the District Advisory Board, including
a meeting of the District Advisory Board within one (1) month of the
Chamber's receipt of the first payment of District Funds;
vii. Provide special event marketing support, as outlined in the annual scope of
work;
viii. Provide administrative services and support to the District to implement
District program activities within the approved budget as needed;
ix. Provide District member support related to District program activities as
business issues may arise;
X. Award and administer contracts on behalf of the District for District
activities;
xi. Market and promote the District's events and activities within budget;
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xii. Maintain a webpage dedicated to, promoting, and marketing the District,
and events and activities of the District; and
xiii. Mail one delinquent notice annually to each business who has not paid the
annual assessment, with instructions on how to pay the annual assessment.
City will provide the Chamber with a list of delinquent businesses and their
addresses for the notice.
b. District Enhancement Services. The Chamber will provide the following
enhancement services to the City related to the District (collectively, "District
Enhancement Services"):
i. Identify strategic partners, resources, and programs that could benefit San
Rafael Downtown businesses and property owners for improved physical
upgrades, safety, and marketing;
ii. Provide leadership training and orientation for hired staff supporting District
activities;
iii. With City staff, liaison to the District to keep members informed of City
issues and construction that may affect the District and its members;
iV. Building upon the Economic Development Strategic Plan Draft and
Downtown Precise Plan, conduct needs assessment outreach to businesses
and property owners within the downtown on desired programming and
needs to enhance economic vitality with specific focus on safety,
cleanliness, marketing, and physical upgrades; and
v. Develop a database of property, business owner, and representative contact
information including mailing addresses, phone numbers, and emails; and
vi. Conduct outreach and host informational sessions with property owners and
businesses to assist the City feasibility analysis of a property -based
improvement district or modifications to the District business assessment
rate structure to enhance economic vitality.
All obligations incurred by the Chamber performing its duties under this paragraph 1
or otherwise in accordance with this Agreement will be the sole obligation of the Chamber,
and the Chamber shall have no authority to incur any obligations in the name of, or on behalf
of, the City of San Rafael, or any department thereof. The City's obligations will be solely
those described in this Agreement.
2. The City's Duties.
a. Collection of assessments. The City will bill and collect assessments from
businesses within the boundaries of the District annually in conjunction with the
City's annual business license. The City may, but is not required to, follow up and
collect delinquent assessments.
b. Distribution of District Funds to the Chamber. The City will distribute to the
Chamber the assessment funds actually collected by the City, with any interest that
actually accrues upon such funds while in the City's possession and control, plus
interest and penalties actually received by the City with respect to delinquent
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District assessment payments (collectively, the `'District Funds"). The City will
disburse the District Funds held by the City for the 2023 assessments in a lump sum
payment by no later than July 30, 2023; except that up to $10,000 of the 2023
assessments will be disbursed to the BID Corporation to support their transition
activities. Any District Funds collected by the City thereafter, including any
remaining District Funds of the BID Corporation, will be disbursed to the Chamber
when reasonably practical thereafter. Notwithstanding the forgoing, in the event of
a legal challenge against any District assessments, or threat thereof, the City will
have the right to delay disbursement or impound the District Funds, so that the
assessments are available for refunds or satisfaction of judgments (a "Funding
Delay"). The City's right to delay disbursement or impound District Funds through
a Funding Delay, may, in the City's sole discretion, shall extend through the
expiration of the legal challenge or threat thereof.
c. Annual renewal for levy of assessments. The City Council will adopt a Resolution
of Intention to Levy an Annual Assessment and hold a public hearing to confirm the
District's annual report and renew the assessments for the next calendar year. The
public hearing is expected to occur in December each year, following the District
Advisory Board's submission of its annual report, as provided in the Administrative
Guidelines (Exhibit B).
3) Co pen sat ion. For performance of District Management Services and District
Enhancement Services by the Chamber described in paragraph la-b, the Chamber will
be compensated by the City in the amount of $100,000, in two annual payments as
follows:
i. $50,000 for the period of the Effective Date of this Agreement through
June 30, 2024, payable within 30 days of receipt of invoice from the
Chamber; and
ii. $50,000 for the period of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, payable
within 30 days of receipt of invoice to be submitted by the Chamber
after March 31, 2024.
The compensation described in this paragraph is not considered District Funds under
this Agreement and upon payment by the City will be separate funds of the Chamber.
4) District Funds Budgetary, Auditing, and Financial Obligations.
a. District Funds Held in Restricted Funds Account. All District Funds in the
possession/control of the Chamber hereunder are the property of the District and
shall be held in a separate bank account by the Chamber solely for the benefit of the
District. Such District Funds shall only be expended as outlined in the annual report
approved by the City Council at the direction of the District Advisory Board.
b. Chamber's Use of District Funds. If the Chamber's actual costs exceed $50,000 for
each annual period listed above in paragraph 3, the Chamber will then be entitled to
deduct its actual costs, to include overhead and staffing expenses, from any
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remaining District Funds, not to exceed 15% of the total amount of District Funds
collected each year (based on 2023 assessments for the 2023-2024 period and 2024
assessments for the 2024-2025 period). The Chamber will provide an accounting of
its costs to the District Advisory Board and the City to support such deductions.
Budget Compliance. The Chamber will act as the fiscal agent of the District to
administer District Funds in compliance with each annual report approved by the
City Council and resolution adopted by the City Council levying the annual District
assessment (collectively referred to as the "Budget"). All District Funds will be
separately accounted for by the Chamber, and segmented from other revenue
collected by the Chamber in its accounting and financial records.
d. Records/Audit. During the term of this Agreement, and for four years after this
Agreement's term expires or terminates, the Chamber will maintain detailed
financial records pertaining to District administration sufficient to provide the basis
for an unqualified opinion by an independent auditor, including but not limited to
records concerning budgeting, expenditures, subcontracts, insurance, permits,
administrative expenses, and overhead. The Chamber agrees to make all such
records available to the City upon request at all reasonable times.
e. Confidentiality. The Chamber will comply with all laws governing the
confidentiality of District assessment records, reports, and related information that
may be provided to the Chamber by the City. A record of the total assessment of
an individual business, or the fact that said business has allowed the assessment
payment to become delinquent, is not deemed to be confidential.
f. Compensation for District Management and Enhancement Services. The $100,000
compensation paid by the City to the Chamber for District Management Services
and District Enhancement Services described in paragraph 3 will not be considered
District Funds and are not subject to the terms of this paragraph 4.
5) Term and Termination.
a. Term. The tern of this Agreement (the "Term") will be from the Effective Date
through June 30, 2025, unless mutually extended by the parties in writing.
b. Termination for cause. If the City determines that the Chamber has misappropriated
District Funds, committed malfeasance, or violated any law in providing the
activities identified in the approved Budget or otherwise conducted by or on behalf
of the District, or in otherwise administering the District, the City will have the
right to immediately terminate this Agreement via written notice to the Chamber.
c. Termination for convenience. Either party will have the right to terminate this
Agreement for any reason with 90 days' written notice to the other party.
d. Obligations on Termination. Immediately following the expiration or earlier
termination of this Agreement, the Chamber will do all of the following:
Page 6 of 20
i. Terminate all activities of the Chamber covered by this Agreement;
ii. Pay all obligations it incurred on behalf of the District;
iii. Return to the City all remaining District Funds and all assets acquired with
District Funds, together with an accounting thereof; and
iv. Reimburse the City the total amount of compensation paid to the Chamber
for District Management Services and District Enhancement Services pro-
rated for the period of time after the effective date of termination.
Immediately following any early termination of this Agreement, the City will pay
the Chamber any amount of compensation it may owe for District Management
Services and District Enhancement Services pro -rated for the period of time up to
the effective date of termination.
This provision will survive termination of this Agreement.
6) Indemnification by Chamber.
a. Indemnity. Except as expressly provided herein, the Chamber shall indemnify,
hold harmless and defend the City and each of its officers, officials, employees,
and agents and volunteers (each a "City Party" and collectively, the "City
Parties") from any and all loss, liability, fines, penalties, forfeitures, costs and
damages (whether in contract, tort or strict liability, including but not limited to
personal injury, death at any time and property damage), including attorney's
fees and litigation expenses, arising or alleged to have arisen or caused by: (i)
any material breach or non -fulfillment of any of the terms of this Agreement or
performance of this Agreement, except to the extent directly or indirectly caused
by a Funding Delay described in Section 2b above; (ii) the Chamber's
performance of its obligations or conduct of its operations under the terms of
this Agreement; or (iii) the Chamber's use of the District Funds disbursed to it
or debts which may be incurred arising out of or, in anywise connected, directly
or indirectly, with the Chamber's performance under the terms of this
Agreement, it being understood that the City is solely a disbursing agency
of the District Funds, for the account of the District, and said District Funds
will not become a part of any general fund or any other special fund of the
Chamber or the City of San Rafael. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Chamber's indemnification obligations provided herein shall not apply to any
loss, liability, fines, penalties, forfeitures, costs or damages caused by the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of the City or any City Party.
b. Use of Agents. If the Chamber subcontracts all or any portion of the services to
be provided by the Chamber under this Agreement, the Chamber shall require
each subcontractor to indemnify, hold harmless and defend the City and the City
Parties in accordance this Section 6.
c. Survival. This Section 6 shall survive termination or expiration of this
Agreement.
Page 7 of 20
7) Indemnification by City.
Indemnity. Except as expressly provided herein, the City shall indemnify, hold
harmless and defend the Chamber and each of its officers, officials, employees,
and agents and volunteers (each a "Chamber Party" and collectively, the
"Chamber Parties") from any and all loss, liability, fines, penalties, forfeitures,
costs and damages (whether in contract, tort or strict liability, including but not
limited to personal injury, death at any time and property damage), including
attorney's fees and litigation expenses, arising or alleged to have arisen or
caused by: (i) any material breach or non -fulfillment of any of the terms of this
Agreement or performance of this Agreement including, without limitation,
those directly or indirectly caused by a Funding Delay described in Section 2b
above; or (ii) the City's performance of its obligations or conduct of its
operations under the terms of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
the City's indemnification obligations provided herein shall not apply to any
loss, liability, fines, penalties, forfeitures, costs or damages caused by the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of the Chamber or any Chamber Party.
b. Use of Agents. If the City subcontracts all or any portion of the services to be
provided by the City under this Agreement, the City shall require each
subcontractor to indemnify, hold harmless and defend the Chamber and the
Chamber Parties in accordance with the terms of this Section 7.
c. Survival. This Section 7 shall survive termination or expiration of this
Agreement.
d. Chamber Insurance Requirements. The Chamber will maintain insurance and comply
with the insurance requirements provided in Exhibit C on forms approved by the City.
e. General Provisions
a. Notice. To be effective, any notice concerning this Agreement must be served by
placing it in the U.S. Mail with postage prepaid to the following addressees. Either
party may change the addressee by providing written notice to the other party.
Notice will be considered delivered two business days after the date of deposit in the
U.S. Mail.
To Ci
City of San Rafael
Director of Economic Development
1400 Fifth Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901
micah.hinkle(cityofsanrafael.org
To Chamher
Chamber of Commerce
President and CEO
817 Mission Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901
iwebster(aysrcharnber.com
b. Independent Contractor Status. The Chamber will perform under this Agreement as
an independent contractor and will be responsible for any federal, state, or local
taxes or fees that apply to compensation the Chamber receives from the City under
Page 8 of 20
this Agreement. The Chamber's employees and subcontractors will not be
employees of the City and will not be eligible for any benefits provided through the
City, including but not limited to social security, health, workers' compensation,
unemployment compensation, or retirement benefits. Neither the District nor any of
its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, or subcontractors are or will be
considered to be agents of the City in connection with the Chamber's performance
under this Agreement.
General Fund Not Liable for District Funds. Neither the taxing authority, nor the
bonding capacity, nor the general fund, nor any other fund or monies of the City
other than actual District Funds received from businesses located within the District
will be liable for payment of any obligations in connection with the District Funds
arising from this Agreement. Obligations of the District Funds are not a debt of the
City, nor are they a legal or equitable pledge, charge, lien, or encumbrance upon
any of the City's property, income, receipts, or revenues. This Agreement embodies
all of the Chamber's reimbursement rights with respect to the District Funds, and
the City is not required to execute any additional note or document.
d. Attorneys' Fees. The prevailing party in any litigation or arbitration brought to
enforce this Agreement will be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and
costs (including the reasonable costs of City Attorney staff) incurred in connection
with the litigation or arbitration, through final resolution.
e. Interpretation and Venue. This Agreement is to be interpreted in accordance with
California law. Any litigation concerning this Agreement must be brought and
prosecuted in the Marin County Superior Court.
f. Waiver. A party's failure to insist on strict performance of this Agreement or to
exercise any right or remedy upon the other party's breach of this Agreement will
not constitute a waiver of the performance, right, or remedy. A party's waiver of the
other party's breach of any term or provision in this Agreement will not constitute a
continuing waiver or a waiver of any subsequent breach of the same or any other
term or provision. A waiver is binding only if set forth in writing and signed by the
waiving party.
Entire Agreement. Each party acknowledges that they have read and fully
understand the contents of this Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the parties'
entire understanding regarding the subjects covered. It supersedes all prior or
contemporaneous agreements, representations, and negotiations regarding those
subjects (whether written, oral, express, or implied) and may be modified only by
another written agreement signed by both parties.
h. Counterparts. The parties may execute this Agreement in counterparts, each of
which will be considered an original, but all of which will constitute the same
agreement.
i. Precedence of Documents. In the event of any conflict between the body of this
Page 9 of 20
Agreement and any exhibit or attachment hereto, the terms and conditions of the
body of this Agreement shall control and take precedence over the terms and
conditions expressed within the exhibit or attachment.
j. Amendment. This Agreement may be modified only by written instrument duly
authorized and executed by all the parties.
k. Successors and Assigns. Subject to limitations on assignment provided herein, this
Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, all parties, and
each parties' respective heirs, successors, assigns, transferees, agents, servants,
employees and representatives. The Chamber may not assign its rights or
obligations under this Agreement without the prior written consent of City, which
consent may be withheld at City's sole and absolute discretion. Any attempted
assignment by the Chamber, its successors or assigns, shall be null and void unless
approved in writing by the City.
1. Authority to Sign. Each individual executing this Agreement, or its counterpart,
warrants that they are authorized to do so and that this Agreement constitutes the
legally binding obligation of the entity which they represent.
[Signatures are on the following page.]
Page 10 of 20
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the day and
year first above written.
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL:
()-istihe Aliloyich
CRISTINE ALILOVICH, City
Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Office of the City Attorney
By: GENEVIEVE COYLE,
Assistant City Attorney
ATTEST:
City Clerk
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B,e—, tlu�m�,!o� J,1:8 JC: 0i. 50 POT
LINDSAY LARA, City Clerk
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:
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JOA NF WEBSTER, President
�/and CEO
[Other Corporate Officer]
Exhibits (incorporated by this reference):
Exhibit A: Chapter 10.09 of the San Rafael Municipal Code
Exhibit B: San Rafael Improvement District Administrative Guidelines
Exhibit C: Insurance Requirements
Page 11 of 20
Exhibit A
San Rafael Municipal Code, Chapter 10.09
Title 10 - BUSINESSES, PROFESSIONS, OCCUPATIONS, INDUSTRIES AND TRADES
Chapter 10.09 DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
(Current through March 10, 2023)
Chapter 10.09 DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
10.09.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to authorize the city to impose assessments on business within a parking and
business improvement area which are in addition to any assessments, fees, charges, or taxes imposed in the city,
and to use such proceeds for the benefit of businesses within such area.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.020 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter and for identifying businesses in the Downtown San Rafael Business
Improvement District and for calculating and applying the assessments owed, the following definitions shall apply:
A. "Financial institutions" —Banks (retail and full service), savings and loans, credit unions as allowed in
the underlying zoning district.
B. "Non -Profit organizations" —Organizations registered as a non-profit corporation with the State of
California and fine artists.
C. "Fine artists" —Artists that produce art that is intended primarily for beauty rather than utility or
commercial purposes.
D. "Offices" —Businesses providing administrative or business services such as company headquarters,
employment agencies, management services as allowed in the underlying zoning district.
E. "Personal services" —Businesses that sell services such as hair salons, nail salons and day spas as
allowed in the underlying zoning district, and may combine some retail sales with product services, and
may be associated with sole practitioners.
F. "Personal services, not on ground floor" —Personal service businesses that are not located on the
ground floor of a building and do not have a retail presence on the street.
G. "Personal services sole practitioner" —Businesses that are sole practitioners in personal services
businesses, including barbershop chairs, manicurists chairs, beauty shop chairs and miscellaneous
personal care chairs.
H. "Professionals" —Businesses that require advanced and/or specialized licenses and/or advanced
academic degrees, such as architects, engineers, attorneys, accountants, therapists, counselors,
realtors, mortgage brokers as allowed in the underlying zoning district. Professionals working as sole
practitioners are in this category.
I. "Restaurant" —Businesses that sell prepared foods and drinks as allowed in the underlying zoning
district.
J. "Retail' —Businesses that buy and sell goods, such as clothing stores, shoe stores, office supplies as
allowed in the underlying zoning district.
Page 12 of 20
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.030 District established.
Pursuant to the provisions of Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq., a parking and business
improvement district is hereby established, named "Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District" (the
"BID").
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.040 Boundaries of district and benefit zones.
The parking and business improvement area created herein includes businesses situated within the
boundaries described as follows:
Those businesses situated on parcels fronting on the north side of Fourth Street from Second Street to E
Street, more particularly assessor's parcels as shown on the 2012 Assessor's Maps as follows: 010-291-57, 35, 34,
33, 49, 69; 011-192-18, 08, 07; 011-194-11, 13, 08, 07; 011-196-12, 11, 10, 09, 08, 07; 011-202-13, 12, 11, 14; those
businesses situated on parcels bound by Fourth Street, Second Street and Ida Street, more particularly assessor's
parcels as shown on the 2012 Assessor's Maps as follows: 011-231-24, 25, 03, 04, 05, 06, 21, 17, 16; those
businesses situated on parcels fronting on the south side of Fourth Street from Ida Street to E Street, more
particularly assessor's parcels as shown on the 2012 Assessor's Maps as follows: 011-232-01, 02, 03; 011-241-01,
30, 31, 32, 33; 011-242-01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11; 011-245-26; those businesses situated on parcels
bound by E Street, Netherton Street, Fifth Avenue and Third Street, more particularly assessor's parcels as shown
on the 2012 Assessor's Maps as follows: 011-204-01, 16, 15, 14, 13, 17, 09, 08, 20, 18, 19; 011-205-01, 15, 14, 13,
12, 11, 10, 09, 08, 16, 05, 04, 17; 011-212-15, 14, 16, 11, 06, 05, 04, 03; 011-214-10; 011-215-01, 02, 04, 05; 011-
216-01; 011-222-08, 05; 011-224-01, 18, 17, 20, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 19, 08, 06, 05, 04, 03, 02, 21; 011-227-01,
08, 07, 06, 05, 04, 10, 09, 02; 011-251-01, 13, 12, 11, 10, 09, 08, 07, 06, 05, 04, 03, 02; 011-253-01, 09, 08, 07, 06,
11, 10, 04, 03, 02; 011-255-27, 15, 14, 13, 18, 10, 29, 33, 19, 20, 07, 31, 30, 32, 23, 28, 03; 011-261-01, 13, 12, 20,
26, 29, 30, 17, 31; 011-263-20, 21, 02, 19, 04, 16, 22, 13, 11, 10, 09, 08, 07, 06, 05, 02; 011-271-01, 16, 15, 14, 13,
12, 11, 17, 07, 06, 05, 04, 03, 02, 01; 011-273-01, 17, 18, 12, 11, 10, 09, 08, 24, 06, 05, 04, 23, 02; 011-275-01, 12,
11, 10, 09, 13, 05, 04, 03, 02; 011-277-01; 014-084-13, 14, 02; 014-121-14; those businesses situated on parcels
fronting on B Street from Third Street to Second Street, more particularly assessor's parcels as shown on the 2012
Assessor's Maps as follows: 011-256-26, 07, 08, 09, 32, 12; 011-262-01, 21, 22, 16, 15, 14, 23.
The standard benefit zone is that portion of the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District located
to the west of E Street, that portion to the east of Lincoln Avenue, and that portion fronting on B Street from Third
to Second Street.
The premium benefit zone is the remainder of the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District;
specifically that portion located the east of E Street and west of Lincoln Avenue, between Fifth Avenue and Third
Street.
Said area zones are reflected on a graphic, Exhibit A, attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter and
incorporated in this chapter by reference.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.050 Calculation of assessments.
All businesses in the BID shall, commencing on January 1, 2015 pay an annual benefit assessment to the BID
in the amounts shown in Table 10.09.050-1.
(Supp. No. 35)
Page 13 of 20
Created: 2023-03-14 09:10:26 [EST]
Table 10.09.050-1
Annual Assessment
Type of Business
Standard
Premium
Retail on the ground floor, restaurant, personal
services on ground floor
$175
$225
Retail on the ground floor, restaurant, personal
services on ground floor —Businesses with less
than $100,000 in gross receipts
$150
$175
Offices, professional, personal services, not on
ground floor, retail, not on ground floor
$75
$100
Personal services sole practitioner
$25
$50
Non-profit organization and fine artists
$50
$50
Financial institution
$375
$425
Assessments based upon 'gross receipts' shall be based upon the previous year's annualized gross receipts
An individual who has multiple business licenses in their name at a single address shall only pay one assessment
fee. No person or business shall be required to pay an assessment for residential uses, residential businesses or
home occupations. Any business outside the BID may voluntarily pay the standard zone assessment.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.060 Use of revenue.
The revenues derived from the assessments shall be used for the purposes as stated in Streets and Highways
Code Section 36501 et seq. for the specific benefit of assessed businesses which may include:
A. General promotion of businesses activities which provide a specific benefit to assessed businesses
within the BID;
B. Promotion of public events which provide a specific benefit to assessed businesses within the BID and
which take place on or in public places within the BID;
C. The acquisition, construction, installation and maintenance of any tangible property including but not
limited to benches, trash receptacles, decorations and landscaping which provide a specific benefit to
assessed businesses within the BID;
D. Activities which provide a specific benefit to assessed businesses located and operating in the BID.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.070 Collection of assessments.
The benefit assessment shall be billed annually by the city in conjunction with the city's annual business
license. Any business exempt from paying city business license fees shall be assessed in January of each year. All
assessments collected shall be held in a separate account and expended in accordance with this chapter and any
subsequent resolutions and funds management agreement.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
(Supp. No. 35)
Page 14 of 20
Created: 2023-03-14 09:10:26 [EST]
10.09.080 Advisory board and annual report.
The city council shall appoint an advisory board pursuant to Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq
to administer the affairs of the BID. Members of the advisory board must own or represent a business in the BID,
or be a voluntary member. The advisory board shall prepare an annual report for each year for which assessments
are to be levied. The report shall be filed with the city clerk and shall comply with all requirements as stated in
Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.090 District proceeds do not offset city services.
Funds derived from the BID assessments shall not be used to offset or diminish current maintenance or
capital improvement programs, including but not limited to public property and sidewalk cleaning and
maintenance, street cleaning and maintenance, tree maintenance.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
10.09.100 Boundary and assessment modifications.
The city council may, at the advisory board's recommendation, modify the boundaries or assessments. Such
modifications shall be made pursuant to the requirements of Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq.
(Ord. No. 1912, § 3, 6-3-2013; Ord. No. 1926, § 2, 12-1-2014 )
(Supp. No. 35)
Page 15 of 20
Created: 2023-03-14 09:10:26 [EST]
Exhibit B
Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District
Administrative Guidelines
1. District. The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District ("District") is a parking and business
improvement district established pursuant to the provisions of Streets and Highways Code Section
36501 et seq., and codified in Chapter 10.09 of the San Rafael Municipal Code.
2. Appointment of District Advisory Board. The City Council, in its sole and absolute discretion, will
appoint the District Advisory Board, pursuant to the Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq.
and San Rafael Municipal Code section 10.09.080, to administer the affairs of the District. The City
Council will review and update the District Advisory Board appointments as it deems appropriate. The
City Council may, but is not required to, appoint any members of the Board of Directors of the San
Rafael Chamber of Commerce ("Chamber") to the District Advisory Board, provided that such
members meet the eligibility requirements under San Rafael Municipal Code section 10.09.080.
District Advisory Board Nominations. The District Advisory Board will conduct an annual
meeting to select the nominations for District Advisory Board. The District Advisory Board
nominations will be provided to the City Clerk at the time of the submittal of the District Annual
Report. The Advisory Board nominations should reflect a balance of downtown business
representation including retail businesses, non -retail businesses, and at least one district
eligible Chamber business recommended by the Chamber.
3. Management and Enhancement Services of the Chamber of Commerce. The City has contracted with
the Chamber to provide District management and enhancement services to the District, and act as the
fiscal agent of District Funds. The Advisory Board will conduct all of its affairs consistent with the City's
agreement with the Chamber.
4. Governance; meetings. The District Advisory Board is a separate, standalone advisory board appointed
by the City Council to administer the affairs of the District. To the extent determined necessary by the
District Advisory Board, it will develop its own bylaws or operating rules, separate from the Chamber
Board of Director's bylaws. The District Advisory Board will conduct its meetings, and meet separately
and at a different time than the Chamber Board of Directors. If these meeting are to occur on the
same date, before or after each other, the meeting agendas will be clearly delineated to specify which
organization is meeting at which time. In noticing and conducting its meetings as the District Advisory
Board, the District Advisory Board will, in all respects, comply with the Brown Act, as specified below.
5. Compliance with Brown Act and Public Records Act. The District Advisory Board must comply with all
federal, state, and local laws, including The Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code § 54950 et seq.)
("Brown Act") whenever matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, discussed, or
deliberated, and the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250 et seq.) for all documents
relating to activities of the District. See Exhibit B-1 for more information on the Brown Act.
6. Conflicts of interest. Members of the District Advisory Board will serve without compensation and may
not have any interest in any agreement for compensation entered into by or on behalf of the District.
7. District Funds. District Funds (revenues derived from the assessments and transferred from the City to
the Chamber) shall be used solely for the purposes as stated in Streets and Highways Code section
Page 19
36501 et seq. and San Rafael Municipal Code section 10.09.060.
8. Annual Reports. The District Advisory Board will submit annual reports to the City, no later than
October 15 of each year. The annual report contents and filing will conform with the 1989 Act, Streets
and Highways Code section 36533, as follows:
§ 36533. Annual report; contents; filing
(a) The advisory board shall cause to be prepared a reportfor each fiscal year for which
assessments are to be levied and collected to pay the costs of the improvements and activities
described in the report. The report may propose changes, including, but not limited to, the
boundaries of the parking and business improvement area or any benefit zones within the area,
the basis and method of levying the assessments, and any changes in the classification of
businesses, if a classification is used.
(b) The report shall be filed with the clerk and shall refer to the parking and business
improvement area by name, specify the fiscal year to which the report applies, and, with respect
to that fiscal year, shall contain all of the following:
(1) Any proposed changes in the boundaries of the parking and business improvement area or in
any benefit zones within the area.
(2) The improvements and activities to be provided for that fiscal year.
(3) An estimate of the cost of providing the improvements and the activities for that fiscal year.
(4) The method and basis of levying the assessment in sufficient detail to allow each business
owner to estimate the amount of the assessment to be levied against his or her business for that
fiscal year.
(5) The amount of any surplus or deficit revenues to be carried over from a previous fiscal year
(6) The amount of any contributions to be made from sources other than assessments levied
pursuant to this part.
(c) The city council may approve the report as filed by the advisory board or may modify any
particular contained in the report and approve it as modified. The city council shall not approve a
change in the basis and method of levying assessments that would impair an authorized or
executed contract to be paid from the revenues derived from the levy of assessments.
Page 20
Exhibit B-1
Summary of The Brown Act Provisions
The Advisory Board of the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District ("District") is subject to the
Ralph M. Brown Act when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, discussed, or
deliberated and shall comply with the California Public Records Act. The California Public Records Act requires
that non-exempt records of the District be accessible by the public. The Brown Act is intended to ensure that
"actions be taken openly and that deliberations be conducted openly" by boards who are created by formal
action of city councils. Some of the more important requirements of the Brown Act are listed below.
The Advisory Board and any standing committees and committees comprised of at least a majority of the
Board members are subject to the following requirements:
• Except for closed sessions which are expressly permitted under the Brown Act, all meetings
must be open to the public and must allow public comment;
• Some closed sessions are allowed based on limited exceptions (litigation, employment issues,
etc.);
• A meeting is defined as a congregation of a majority of Board members, or serial individual
meetings involving a majority or more of the Board members wherein District business is
discussed or conducted;
• Agendas for upcoming, regular meetings must be posted at least 72 hours in advance; and
• Action can only be taken on items listed on the posted agenda.
The above list provides a simple overview. The Brown Act is updated routinely by the State of California
and has more requirements. City staff should be contacted for current Brown Act resources, information
and training.
Page 19
Exhibit C
Insurance Requirements
During the term of this Agreement, and for any time period set forth below, the CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE (as CONSULTANT) shall procure and maintain in full force and effect, at no cost to CITY
insurance policies with respect to employees and vehicles assigned to the performance of Services under this
Agreement with coverage amounts, required endorsements, certificates of insurance, and coverage
verifications as defined in this Exhibit B.
A. Scope of Coverage. During the term of this Agreement, CONSULTANT shall maintain, at
no expense to CITY, the following insurance policies:
1. Commercial general liability. A commercial general liability insurance policy in the
minimum amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence/two million dollars -($2,000,000)
aggregate, for death, bodily injury, personal injury, or property damage.
2. Automobile liability. An automobile liability (owned, non -owned, and hired vehicles)
insurance policy in the minimum amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence.
3. Professional liability. If any licensed professional performs any of the services
required to be performed under this Agreement, a professional liability insurance policy in the minimum amount
of one million dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence/two million dollars ($2,000,000) aggregate, to cover any
claims arising out of the CONSULTANT's performance of services under this Agreement. Where
CONSULTANT is a professional not required to have a professional license, CITY reserves the right to require
CONSULTANT to provide professional liability insurance pursuant to this section.
4. Workers' compensation. If it employs any person, CONSULTANT shall maintain
workers' compensation insurance, as required by the State of California, with statutory limits, and
employer's liability insurance with limits of no less than one million dollars ($1,000,000) per accident for
bodily injury or disease. CONSULTANT's workers' compensation insurance shall be specifically endorsed
to waive any right of subrogation against CITY.
B. Other Insurance Requirements. The insurance coverage required of the CONSULTANT
in subparagraph A of this section above shall also meet the following requirements:
1. Except for professional liability insurance or workers' compensation insurance, the
insurance policies shall be specifically endorsed to include the CITY, its officers, agents, employees, and
volunteers, as additional insureds (for both ongoing and completed operations) under the policies.
2. The additional insured coverage under CONSULTANT's insurance policies shall be
"primary and noncontributory" with respect to any insurance or coverage maintained by CITY and shall not
call upon CITY's insurance or self-insurance coverage for any contribution. The "primary and noncontributory"
coverage in CONSULTANT'S policies shall be at least as broad as ISO form CG20 0104 13.
3. Except for professional liability insurance or workers' compensation insurance, the
insurance policies shall include, in their text or by endorsement, coverage for contractual liability and personal
injury.
4. By execution of this Agreement, CONSULTANT hereby grants to CITY a
waiver of any right to subrogation which any insurer of CONSULTANT may acquire against CITY by
virtue of the payment of any loss under such insurance. CONSULTANT agrees to obtain any
endorsement that may be necessary to effect this waiver of subrogation, but this provision applies
regardless of whether or not CITY has received a waiver of subrogation endorsement from the insurer.
5. If the insurance is written on a Claims Made Form, then, following termination of this
Agreement, said insurance coverage shall survive for a period of not less than five years.
6. The insurance policies shall provide for a retroactive date of placement coinciding with
the Effective Date of this Agreement.
7. The limits of insurance required in this Agreement may be satisfied by a combination
of primary and umbrella or excess insurance. Any umbrella or excess insurance shall contain or be endorsed to
contain a provision that such coverage shall also apply on a primary and noncontributory basis for the benefit of
CITY (if agreed to in a written contract or agreement) before CITY'S own insurance or self-insurance shall be
called upon to protect it as a named insured.
8. It shall be a requirement under this Agreement that any available insurance proceeds
broader than or in excess of the specified minimum insurance coverage requirements and/or limits shall be
available to CITY or any other additional insured party. Furthermore, the requirements for coverage and limits
shall be: (1) the minimum coverage and limits specified in this Agreement; or (2) the broader coverage and
maximum limits of coverage of any insurance policy or proceeds available to the named insured; whichever is
greater. No representation is made that the minimum insurance requirements of this Agreement are sufficient
to cover the obligations of the CONSULTANT under this Agreement.
9. CONSULTANT agrees to ensure that subcontractors, and any other party involved
with the Services, who is brought onto or involved in the performance of the Services by CONSULTANT,
provide the same minimum insurance coverage required of CONSULTANT, except as with respect to
limits. CONSULTANT agrees to monitor and review all such coverage and assumes all responsibility for
ensuring that such coverage is provided in conformity with the requirements of this Agreement.
CONSUTLANT agrees that upon request by CITY, all agreements with, and insurance compliance
documents provided by, such subcontractors and others engaged in the performance of Services will be
submitted to CITY for review.
10. CONSULTANT agrees to be responsible for ensuring that no contract used by any
party involved in any way with the Services reserves the right to charge CITY or CONSULTANT for the
cost of additional insurance coverage required by this Agreement. Any such provisions are to be deleted
with reference to CITY. It is not the intent of CITY to reimburse any third party for the cost of complying
with these requirements. There shall be no recourse against CITY for payment of premiums or other amounts
with respect thereto.
C. Deductibles and SIR's. Any deductibles or self -insured retentions in CONSULTANT's
insurance policies must be declared to and approved by the CITY and shall not reduce the limits of liability.
Policies containing any self -insured retention (SIR) provision shall provide or be endorsed to provide that the
SIR may be satisfied by either the named insured or CITY or other additional insured party. At CITY's option,
the deductibles or self -insured retentions with respect to CITY shall be reduced or eliminated to CITY's
satisfaction, or CONSULTANT shall procure a bond guaranteeing payment of losses and related investigations,
claims administration, attorney's fees and defense expenses.
D. Proof of Insurance. CONSULTANT shall provide to the PROJECT MANAGER all of the
following: (1) Certificates of Insurance evidencing the insurance coverage required in this Agreement; (2) a
copy of the policy declaration page and/or endorsement page listing all policy endorsements for the commercial
general liability policy, and (3) excerpts of policy language or specific endorsements evidencing the other
insurance requirements set forth in this Agreement. CITY reserves the right to obtain a full certified copy of
any insurance policy and endorsements from CONSULTANT. Failure to exercise this right shall not constitute
a waiver of the right to exercise it later. The insurance shall be approved as to form and sufficiency by the
CITY.
RESOLUTION NO. 15210
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL APPOINTING DOWNTOWN
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (BID) ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Cal. Strs. & Hwys.
Code § 36500 et seq. (“1989 Act”), authorizes cities to establish parking and business
improvement areas for the purpose of promoting economic revitalization and physical
maintenance of business districts in order to create jobs, attract new businesses and
prevent erosion of business districts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Act, in June 2013 the City Council of San Rafael
adopted Ordinance No. 1912 (“Ordinance”), codified in the San Rafael Municipal Code
(“SRMC”) Chapter 10.09, establishing the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement
District (“District”) to replace a former Parking and Business Improvements Area Business
Improvement District established in 1979; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance provides for the City’s collection of assessments on
approximately 700 businesses that operate within the District’s boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the revenues derived from the assessments (further defined herein as
“District Funds”) are used for the general promotion of business activities, public events,
and other activities that provide a specific benefit to the assessed businesses; and the
acquisition, construction, installation and maintenance of tangible property that provide a
specific benefit to the assessed businesses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 36530 of the 1989 Act and SRMC Section 10.09.080,
the Council appoints a District Advisory Board consisting of members that own or
represent a business in the District or voluntary members; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board administers the affairs of the District and prepares
an annual report each year describing which assessments are to be levied and files the
report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter 9
(commencing with Section 54950) of Part I of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code) at all times when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, and
the California Public Records Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of
Division 7 of Title I of the Government Code), for all records relating to activities of the
District; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has not made updated appointments to the District Advisory
Board since 2018 given the COVID-19 Pandemic; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to update its appointed members to the BID Advisory
Board; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the following persons shall be appointed
to the BID Advisory Board effective immediately with terms expiring on December 31,
2023:
Terrence Thornton San Rafael Martial Arts
Erika Bowker Pleasures of the Heart
Adam Dawson Mike’s Bikes
Jed Greene Five Corners Consulting Group
Tobi Lessem Bodywise Massage
Jeff Brusati T&B Sports
Amy & Bishlam Bullock (1 vote) Salon B Style Lab
Morgan Schauffler Youth in Arts
Elisabeth Setten Artworks Downtown
Kelly Phu Vin Antico
Joe McCallum Newmark
I, LINDSAY LARA, Clerk of the City of San Rafael, hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the
City Council of the City of San Rafael, held on Monday, the 1st day of May 2023, by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: Councilmembers: Bushey, Hill, Llorens Gulati & Mayor Kate
NOES: Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers: Kertz
Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
RESOLUTION NO. 15211
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A DOWNTOWN BUSINESS
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT TRANSITION AGREEMENT WITH THE DOWNTOWN SAN
RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (BID CORPORATION) IN THE
AMOUNT OF $5,000
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Cal. Strs. & Hwys.
Code § 36500 et seq. (“1989 Act”), authorizes cities to establish parking and business
improvement areas for the purpose of promoting economic revitalization and physical
maintenance of business districts in order to create jobs, attract new businesses and
prevent erosion of business districts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Act, in June 2013 the City Council of San Rafael
adopted Ordinance No. 1912 (“Ordinance”), codified in the San Rafael Municipal Code
(“SRMC”) Chapter 10.09, establishing the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement
District (“District”) to replace a former Parking and Business Improvements Area Business
Improvement District established in 1979; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance provides for the City’s collection of assessments on
approximately 700 businesses that operate within the District’s boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the revenues derived from the assessments ( “District Funds”) are used for
the general promotion of business activities, public events, and other activities that
provide a specific benefit to the assessed businesses; and the acquisition, construction,
installation and maintenance of tangible property that provide a specific benefit to the
assessed businesses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 36530 of the 1989 Act and SRMC Section 10.09.080,
the Council appoints a District Advisory Board consisting of members that own or
represent a business in the District or voluntary members; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board administers the affairs of the District and prepares
an annual report each year describing which assessments are to be levied and files the
report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter 9
(commencing with Section 54950) of Part I of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code) at all times when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, and
the California Public Records Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of
Division 7 of Title I of the Government Code), for all records relating to activities of the
District; and
WHEREAS, the BID Corporation, which operates as a separate California nonprofit
mutual benefit corporation under direction of its Board of Directors (the “BID Corporation
Board”) was established by representatives of businesses in the District in 2012; and
WHEREAS, each year, the City has distributed the District Funds to the BID Corporation,
and the District Advisory Board administers those revenues to use them for authorized
purposes that benefit the assessed businesses and to prepare and to submit the annual
report to the City Clerk reporting activities and finances of the District; and
WHEREAS, all District Funds in the possession/control of the BID Corporation are the
property of the District and are held in trust by the BID Corporation solely for the benefit
of the District; and
WHEREAS, the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce (“Chamber”) is a California nonprofit
mutual benefit corporation that is a member-based business advocacy organization
supporting local businesses of San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the BID Corporation now operates in the Chamber’s offices and has a close
working relationship with the Chamber; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the businesses and
collections of District assessments in 2022 and the District, in 2022, reduced its
operations and operated with reserve funds; and
WHEREAS, with the uncertainty of business recovery form the pandemic and
improvement of economic conditions, the City believes that the District would benefit from
administration by the Chamber to create capacity building and pathways for long-term
sustainability to support Downtown San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the City and the Chamber are entering into a separate agreement under
which the Chamber will provide District management and enhancement services; and
WHEREAS, the City and the BID Corporation desire to enter into an Agreement for the
BID Corporation to winddown its affairs related to administration of the District and
transfer all remaining District Funds in its possession or control back to the City.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby authorizes the
City Manager to negotiate and execute a downtown business improvement district
transition agreement with the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District
(BID Corporation) in an amount of $5,000, subject to form approved by the City
Attorney.
I, LINDSAY LARA, Clerk of the City of San Rafael, hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the
City Council of the City of San Rafael, held on Monday, the 1st day of May 2023, by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: Councilmembers: Bushey, Hill, Llorens Gulati & Mayor Kate
NOES: Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers: Kertz
Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
AGREEMENT FOR TRANSITION
OF THE DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
This Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into as of ___________________ (the “Effective
Date”), between the CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, a municipal corporation of the State of California
("City") and the SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, a California nonprofit mutual
benefit corporation (“BID Corporation”).
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Cal. Strs. & Hwys.
Code § 36500 et seq. (“1989 Act”), authorizes cities to establish parking and business improvement
areas for the purpose of promoting economic revitalization and physical maintenance of business
districts in order to create jobs, attract new businesses and prevent erosion of business districts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Act, in June 2013 the City Council of San Rafael adopted
Ordinance No. 1912 (“Ordinance”), codified in the San Rafael Municipal Code (“SRMC”) Chapter
10.09, establishing a reorganized Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (“District”)
to replace a former Parking and Business Improvements Area Business Improvement District
established in 1979; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance extended the collection boundaries beyond ground floor retail
and provides for the City’s collection of assessments on approximately 700 businesses that operate
within the District’s boundaries including offices and financial institutions; and
WHEREAS, the revenues derived from the assessments (defined herein as “District Funds”)
are used for the general promotion of business activities, public events, and other activities that provide
a specific benefit to the assessed businesses; and the acquisition, construction, installation and
maintenance of tangible property that provide a specific benefit to the assessed businesses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 36530 of the 1989 Act and SRMC Section 10.09.080, the
Council appoints a District Advisory Board consisting of members who own or represent a business
in the District or voluntary members; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board’s primary function is to administer the affairs of
the District and prepare an annual report each year describing which assessments are to be levied
and files the report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter 9
(commencing with Section 54950) of Part I of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government Code) at all
times when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, and the California Public
Records Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of Division 7 of Title I of the
Government Code), for all records relating to activities of the District; and
WHEREAS, the BID Corporation, which operates as a separate California nonprofit mutual
benefit corporation under direction of its Board of Directors (the “BID Corporation Board”) was
established by representatives of businesses in the District in 2012; and
WHEREAS, the City Council from time to time has updated its appointments to the District
Advisory Board to be the same as the members of the BID Corporation Board; and
WHEREAS, each year, the City has distributed the District Funds to the BID Corporation,
and the District Advisory Board administers those revenues to ensure that the BID Corporation uses
them for authorized purposes that benefit the assessed businesses and to prepare and to submit the
annual report to the City Clerk reporting activities and finances of the District; and
WHEREAS, all District Funds in the possession/control of the BID Corporation are the
property of the District and are held in trust by the BID Corporation solely for the benefit of the
District; and
WHEREAS, the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce (“Chamber”) is a California nonprofit
mutual benefit corporation that is a member-based business advocacy organization supporting local
businesses of San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber has been operating and serving the business community for over
one hundred years; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber staff has proven management skills, strong leadership and
financial acumen and has worked closely with City staff and the BID Corporation staff for over 30
years; and
WHEREAS, the BID Corporation now operates in the Chamber’s offices and has a close
working relationship with the Chamber; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the businesses and collections
of District assessments in 2022 and the BID Corporation, in 2022, reduced its operations and
operated with reserve funds; and
WHEREAS, with the uncertainty of business recovery form the pandemic and improvement
of economic conditions, the City believes that the District would benefit from administration by the
Chamber to create capacity building and pathways for long-term sustainability to support Downtown
San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, the Chamber can provide leadership, governance and administrative services in
the execution of the District’s activities; and
WHEREAS, coincident with this Agreement, the City and the Chamber are entering into a
separate agreement under which the Chamber will provide management and enhancement services
for the District; and
WHEREAS, the City and the BID Corporation desire to enter into this Agreement for the
BID Corporation to transition its affairs related to administration of the District and transfer all
remaining District Funds back to the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals and for other good and
sufficient consideration, the City and the BID Corporation agree as set forth herein.
AGREEMENT
1. The BID Corporation’s Duties.
a. Transition of District Activities. Until such date that it returns the District Funds to the
City in accordance with subparagraph (b), the BID Corporation will continue to
administer ongoing activities of the District but will not enter into any new contracts or
obligations on behalf of the District. The BID Corporation will complete the following
District improvements and activities that are currently obligated:
i. Special Event Activities: 1) May Madness may 6, 2023 and 2) Dinning Under the
Lights May 12, 2023 and June 12, 2023.
The BID Corporation will not perform, schedule or obligate any other District
improvements or activities.
b. Termination of District Activities. No later than June 30, 2023, the BID Corporation will:
i. Terminate all administration, improvements and activities of the District;
ii. Pay all obligations and administration costs it incurred on behalf of the District;
and
iii. Return to the City all remaining District Funds, including reserves, and all assets
acquired with District Funds, together with an accounting thereof.
b. Closure Report. No later than June 30, 2023, prepare and submit to the City a closure report
(“Closure Report”) detailing the activities and finances of the District, including:
i. The District improvements and activities completed or partially completed since the
date of its 2022 annual report submitted to the City;
ii. Planned and scheduled improvements and activities of the District for the remainder
of 2023; and
iii. Budget and accounting records pertaining to the District administration sufficient to
provide the basis for an unqualified opinion by an independent auditor, including but
not limited to budget, expenditures, subcontracts, insurance, permits, administrative
expenses, overhead, and any contributions to District Funds made from sources other
than assessments.
c. Supplemental Post-Closure Report and Payment. No later than August 31, 2023, prepare and
submit to the City a supplemental post-closure report (“Post-Closure Report”) detailing any
additions or changes to the information reported in the Closure Report. Said report will cover
the time period of the date of the Closure Report through the date of the Post-Closure Report.
The BID Corporation will further return to the City any remaining District Funds not
previously accounted for.
2. The City’s Duties.
a. Compensation. In exchange for the BID Corporation’s performance of services for the
City in this Agreement, the City will compensate the BID Corporation in the amount of
$5,000, payable in one lump sum within ten (10) days of the Effective Date of this
Agreement. This compensation is separate from the District Funds and is intended to
compensate the BID Corporation directly for its services provided under this Agreement.
b. Distribution of District Funds. The City will distribute $15,000 of District Funds
collected by the City through assessments levied in 2023 to the BID Corporation for
District activities to be performed through June 30, 2023, payable in one lump sum
within ten (10) days of the Effective Date of this Agreement. The BID Corporation may
only use the District Funds for the purposes authorized under the 1989 Act and the
Ordinance.
3) Term. The term of this Agreement (the “Term”) will be from the Effective Date through August
31, 2023.
4) Obligations of the BID Corporation. Any and all obligations incurred by the BID Corporation
hereunder, or otherwise, will be the sole obligation of the BID Corporation, and the BID
Corporation shall have no authority to incur any obligations in the name of, or on behalf of, the
City of San Rafael, or any department thereof, or the District, except where expressly stated in
paragraph 1 regarding obligations of the District.
5) General provisions
a. Notice. To be effective, any notice concerning this Agreement must be served by placing it
in the U.S. Mail with postage prepaid (registered or certified mail, return receipt
requested) to the following addressees. Either party may change the addressee by
providing written notice to the other party. Notice will be considered delivered two
business days after the date of deposit in the U.S. Mail.
To City:
City of San Rafael
Director of Economic Development
1400 Fifth Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901
micah.hinkle@cityofsanrafael.org
To BID Corporation:
San Rafael Business Improvement District
Terrence Thornton, President
P.O. Box 151050
San Rafael, CA 94915
terrance@sanrafaelmartialarts.com
b. Independent Contractor Status. The BID Corporation will perform under this Agreement
as an independent contractor and will be responsible for any federal, state, or local taxes
or fees that apply to compensation the BID Corporation receives from the City under this
Agreement. The BID Corporation’s employees and subcontractors will not be employees
of the City and will not be eligible for any benefits provided through the City, including
but not limited to social security, health, workers' compensation, unemployment
compensation, or retirement benefits. Neither the District nor any of its officers,
employees, agents, volunteers, or subcontractors are or will be considered to be agents of
the City in connection with the BID Corporation's performance under this Agreement.
c. General Fund Not Liable. Neither the taxing authority, nor the bonding capacity, nor the
general fund, nor any other fund or monies of the City other than actual District Funds
received from businesses located within the District will be liable for payment of any
obligations in connection with the District Funds arising from this Agreement. Obligations
of the District Funds are not a debt of the City, nor are they a legal or equitable pledge,
charge, lien, or encumbrance upon any of the City's property, income, receipts, or
revenues. This Agreement embodies all of the BID Corporation’s reimbursement rights
with respect to the District Funds, and the City is not required to execute any additional
note or document.
d. Attorneys' Fees. The prevailing party in any litigation or arbitration brought to enforce
this Agreement will be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees and costs (including
the reasonable costs of City Attorney staff) incurred in connection with the litigation or
arbitration, through final resolution.
e. Interpretation and Venue. This Agreement is to be interpreted in accordance with
California law. Any litigation concerning this Agreement must be brought and prosecuted
in the Marin County Superior Court.
f. Waiver. A party's failure to insist on strict performance of this Agreement or to exercise
any right or remedy upon the other party's breach of this Agreement will not constitute a
waiver of the performance, right, or remedy. A party's waiver of the other party's breach
of any term or provision in this Agreement will not constitute a continuing waiver or a
waiver of any subsequent breach of the same or any other term or provision. A waiver is
binding only if set forth in writing and signed by the waiving party.
g. Entire Agreement. Each party acknowledges that they have read and fully understand the
contents of this Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the parties' entire understanding
regarding the subjects covered. It supersedes all prior or contemporaneous agreements,
representations, and negotiations regarding those subjects (whether written, oral, express,
or implied) and may be modified only by another written agreement signed by both
parties.
h. Counterparts. The parties may execute this Agreement in counterparts, each of which will
be considered an original, but all of which will constitute the same agreement.
i. Precedence of Documents. In the event of any conflict between the body of this
Agreement and any exhibit or attachment hereto, the terms and conditions of the body of
this Agreement shall control and take precedence over the terms and conditions
expressed within the exhibit or attachment.
j. Amendment. This Agreement may be modified only by written instrument duly authorized
and executed by all the parties.
k. Successors and Assigns. Subject to limitations on assignment provided herein, this
Agreement shall be binding upon, and shall inure to the benefit of, all parties, and each
parties' respective heirs, successors, assigns, transferees, agents, servants, employees and
representatives. The BID Corporation may not assign its rights or obligations under this
Agreement without the prior written consent of City, which consent may be withheld at
City's sole and absolute discretion. Any attempted assignment by the BID Corporation, its
successors or assigns, shall be null and void unless approved in writing by the City.
l. Authority to Sign. Each individual executing this Agreement, or its counterpart, warrants
that they are authorized to do so and that this Agreement constitutes the legally binding
obligation of the entity which they represent.
[Signatures are on the following page.]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the day and year first
above written.
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL:
______________________________
JIM SCHUTZ, City Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Office of the City Attorney
______________________________
By: GENEVIEVE COYLE,
Assistant City Attorney
ATTEST:
City Clerk
______________________________
LINDSAY LARA, City Clerk
SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT:
_____________________________
Terrance Thornton, President
_____________________________
Jed Greene, Acting Treasurer
RESOLUTION NO. 15212
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL ADOPTING THE DOWNTOWN
SAN RAFAEL BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ADMINISTRATIVE
GUIDELINES
WHEREAS, the Parking and Business Improvement Area Law of 1989, Cal. Strs. & Hwys.
Code § 36500 et seq. (“1989 Act”), authorizes cities to establish parking and business
improvement areas for the purpose of promoting economic revitalization and physical
maintenance of business districts in order to create jobs, attract new businesses and
prevent erosion of business districts; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the 1989 Act, in June 2013 the City Council of San Rafael
adopted Ordinance No. 1912 (“Ordinance”), codified in the San Rafael Municipal Code
(“SRMC”) Chapter 10.09, establishing the Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement
District (“District”) to replace a former Parking and Business Improvements Area Business
Improvement District established in 1979; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance provides for the City’s collection of assessments on
approximately 700 businesses that operate within the District’s boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the revenues derived from the assessments are used for the general
promotion of business activities, public events, and other activities that provide a specific
benefit to the assessed businesses; and the acquisition, construction, installation and
maintenance of tangible property that provide a specific benefit to the assessed
businesses; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 36530 of the 1989 Act and SRMC Section 10.09.080,
the Council appoints a District Advisory Board consisting of members that own or
represent a business in the District or voluntary members; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board administers the affairs of the District and prepares
an annual report each year describing which assessments are to be levied and files the
report with the City Clerk; and
WHEREAS, the District Advisory Board is subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act (Chapter 9
(commencing with Section 54950) of Part I of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code) at all times when matters within the subject matter of the District are heard, and
the California Public Records Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 6250) of
Division 7 of Title I of the Government Code), for all records relating to activities of the
District; and
WHEREAS, administrative guidelines provide the rules and procedures for the District
Advisory Board and District management entity to administer and operate the affairs of
the District, including how the City Council appoints members of the District Advisory
Board, how meetings of the District Advisory Board are conducted in conformance with
the Brown Act, and requirements for the District Advisory Board to submit an annual report
and spend District funds in conformance with law; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby adopts the
Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District Administrative Guidelines attached
hereto as Exhibit 1.
I, LINDSAY LARA, Clerk of the City of San Rafael, hereby certify that the foregoing
Resolution was duly and regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of San Rafael, held on Monday, the 1st day of May 2023, by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: Councilmembers: Bushey, Hill, Llorens Gulati & Mayor Kate
NOES: Councilmembers: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers: Kertz
Lindsay Lara, City Clerk
Page 1
Exhibit 1
Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District
Administrative Guidelines
(May 2023)
1. District. The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (“District”) is a
parking and business improvement district established pursuant to the provisions
of Streets and Highways Code Section 36501 et seq., and codified in Chapter 10.09
of the San Rafael Municipal Code.
2. Appointment of District Advisory Board. The City Council, in its sole and absolute
discretion, will appoint the District Advisory Board, pursuant to the Streets and
Highways Code Section 36501 et seq. and San Rafael Municipal Code section
10.09.080, to administer the affairs of the District. The City Council will review
and update the District Advisory Board appointments as it deems appropriate. The
City Council may, but is not required to, appoint any members of the Board of
Directors of the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce (“Chamber”) to the District
Advisory Board, provided that such members meet the eligibility requirements
under San Rafael Municipal Code section 10.09.080.
a. District Advisory Board Nominations. The District Advisory Board will
conduct an annual meeting to select the nominations for District Advisory
Board. The District Advisory Board nominations will be provided to the City
Clerk at the time of the submittal of the District Annual Report. The
Advisory Board nominations should reflect a balance of downtown business
representation including retail businesses, non-retail businesses, and at
least one district eligible Chamber business recommended by the Chamber.
3. Management and Enhancement Services of the Chamber of Commerce. The City
has contracted with the Chamber to provide District management and
enhancement services to the District, and act as the fiscal agent of District Funds.
The Advisory Board will conduct all of its affairs consistent with the City’s
agreement with the Chamber.
4. Governance; meetings. The District Advisory Board is a separate, standalone
advisory board appointed by the City Council to administer the affairs of the
District. To the extent determined necessary by the District Advisory Board, it will
develop its own bylaws or operating rules, separate from the Chamber Board of
Director’s bylaws. The District Advisory Board will conduct its meetings, and meet
separately and at a different time than the Chamber Board of Directors. If these
meeting are to occur on the same date, before or after each other, the meeting
agendas will be clearly delineated to specify which organization is meeting at
which time. In noticing and conducting its meetings as the District Advisory Board,
the District Advisory Board will, in all respects, comply with the Brown Act, as
specified below.
5. Compliance with Brown Act and Public Records Act. The District Advisory Board
must comply with all federal, state, and local laws, including The Ralph M. Brown
Act (Government Code § 54950 et seq.) ("Brown Act") whenever matters within
the subject matter of the District are heard, discussed, or deliberated, and the
Page 2
California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250 et seq.) for all documents
relating to activities of the District.
6. Conflicts of interest. Members of the District Advisory Board will serve without
compensation and may not have any interest in any agreement for compensation
entered into by or on behalf of the District.
7. District Funds. District Funds (revenues derived from the assessments and
transferred from the City to the Chamber) shall be used solely for the purposes as
stated in Streets and Highways Code section 36501 et seq. and San Rafael
Municipal Code section 10.09.060.
8. Annual Reports. The District Advisory Board will submit annual reports to the City,
no later than October 15 of each year. The annual report contents and filing will
conform with the 1989 Act, Streets and Highways Code section 36533, as follows:
§ 36533. Annual report; contents; filing
(a) The advisory board shall cause to be prepared a report for each fiscal
year for which assessments are to be levied and collected to pay the costs of
the improvements and activities described in the report. The report may
propose changes, including, but not limited to, the boundaries of the parking
and business improvement area or any benefit zones within the area, the
basis and method of levying the assessments, and any changes in the
classification of businesses, if a classification is used.
(b) The report shall be filed with the clerk and shall refer to the parking and
business improvement area by name, specify the fiscal year to which the
report applies, and, with respect to that fiscal year, shall contain all of the
following:
(1) Any proposed changes in the boundaries of the parking and business
improvement area or in any benefit zones within the area.
(2) The improvements and activities to be provided for that fiscal year.
(3) An estimate of the cost of providing the improvements and the activities
for that fiscal year.
(4) The method and basis of levying the assessment in sufficient detail to
allow each business owner to estimate the amount of the assessment to be
levied against his or her business for that fiscal year.
(5) The amount of any surplus or deficit revenues to be carried over from a
previous fiscal year.
(6) The amount of any contributions to be made from sources other than
assessments levied pursuant to this part.
(c) The city council may approve the report as filed by the advisory board or
may modify any particular contained in the report and approve it as
modified. The city council shall not approve a change in the basis and
method of levying assessments that would impair an authorized or executed
contract to be paid from the revenues derived from the levy of assessments.
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sRobertDollarFireDocument Path: X:\Finance\BID\BID_Edits_20180802.mxd ZBaron Print Date: 8/13/2018San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID)PREMIUM BID
STANDARD BID--