2021/11/02 Planning Commission Agenda PacketCity of Rohnert Park
Planning Commission
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL MEETING
will be held on Tuesday November 2, 2021
6:00 P.M.
Public Participation: By Order of the Health Officer of the County of Sonoma C19-25 all
individuals are required to wear face coverings, with limited exemptions. To maximize public
safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public are
encouraged to observe the meeting on Cable Channel 26 or by visiting meeting central on our
website https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/city_council/meeting_central
Public Comment: Please fill out a speaker card prior to speaking. Members of the public may
also provide advanced comments by email at planning@rpcity.org. Comments are requested by
3:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting to be considered by the Commission. Emailed comments
must identify the Agenda Item Number, unless the item is not on the agenda, in the subject line
of the email.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3.ROLL CALL
(Austin-Dillon_____ Blanquie____ Lam____ Orloff____ Striplen____)
4.PUBLIC COMMENT – Persons who wish to speak to the Commission regarding an
item that is not on the agenda may do so at this time. Please see above for details on how
to submit public comments.
5.CONSENT CALENDAR - ADOPTION OF MINUTES
5.1 Approval of the Draft Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting of October
14, 2021
Commissioner Motion/Roll Call Vote:
(Austin-Dillon_____ Blanquie____ Striplen____ Lam_____Orloff_____)
6.AGENDA ITEMS
6.1 GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY FINDING – PLCI21-0001 – The City of
Rohnert Park - Consideration of Resolution 2021-20 Finding the FY 2020-21 Two-Year
Capital Improvements Program is consistent with the Rohnert Park General Plan 2020
Commissioner Motion/Roll Call Vote:
(Austin-Dillon_____ Blanquie____ Striplen____ Lam_____Orloff_____)
CEQA: The recommended finding of consistency is not a project pursuant to Section
15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines (CEQA) and additionally,
since this is a consistency finding the previous environmental documentation for the
General Plan is adequate CEQA documentation.
6.2 INFORMATIONAL PRESENTATION - 2020 Urban Water Management Plan
6.3 STUDY SESSION – The City of Rohnert Park - General Plan Update – Racial,
Social and Environmental Justice Element
7. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
8. ITEMS FROM THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES STAFF
9. ADJOURNMENT
NOTE: If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to
raising only those issues you or someone else raised at public hearing(s) described in this agenda,
or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Rohnert Park at, or prior to the public
hearing(s).
American Disability Act Accommodations: In compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting please call (707)
588-2231. Notification 72 hours in advance of the meeting will enable the City to make
reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.102.35.104 AD Title
III).
Certification Of Posting Of Agenda: I, Jennifer Sedna, Community Development Technician,
for the City of Rohnert Park, declare that the foregoing notice and agenda for the November 2,
2021 Special Planning Commission Meeting of the City of Rohnert Park was posted and
available for review on October 28, 2021 at Rohnert Park City Hall, 130 Avram Avenue,
Rohnert Park, California 94928. The agenda is available on the City of Rohnert Park’s website
at www.rpcity.org.
Signed this 28th day of October, 2021 at Rohnert Park, California.
Jennifer Sedna
Appeals of any decisions made tonight must be received by the Planning Division within 10
days and no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 15, 2021.
Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting
of the City of Rohnert Park
Thursday, October 14, 2021
6:00 P.M.
130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chairperson Orloff called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Led by Chairperson Orloff.
3. ROLL CALL
Present: Tramaine Austin-Dillon, Commissioner
Daniel A. Blanquie, Commissioner
Fanny Lam, Vice Chairperson
Marc Orloff, Chairperson
Charles Striplen, Commissioner
Absent: None.
4. PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
5. CONSENT CALENDAR - ADOPTION OF MINUTES
5.1 Approval of the Draft Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting of
September 23, 2021.
ACTION: Moved/seconded (Blanquie/Lam) to adopt Minutes of the Planning
Commission Meeting of September 23, 2021.
Motion carried by the following unanimous (5-0-0) roll call vote: AYES:
Austin-Dillon, Blanquie, Lam, Striplen, and Orloff; NOES: None; ABSTAIN:
None; ABSENT: None.
6. AGENDA ITEMS
6.1 PUBLIC HEARING: TEMPORARY CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT – File
No. PLUP21 -0003 – Richmond American Homes – Consideration of Resolution
2021-19 approving a Temporary Conditional Use Permit for a model home
complex in the Vast Oak North Phase 3A – Alder at University District
subdivision.
Jeffrey Beiswenger, Planning Manager, presented the item and answered questions from
the Commission, including: completion date of Keiser Rd.; and, if there’s flexibility with
the closure of the complex to allow for the parking lot to be closed before the model
home complexes were closed.
Public Comment opened.
John Peterson, representative for Richmond American Homes, made himself available for
questions and the Commission had none.
No public comments.
Public Comment closed.
ACTION: Moved/seconded (Blanquie/Austin-Dillon) to adopt Resolution 2021-
18 approving a Temporary Conditional Use Permit for a model home complex in
the Vast Oak North Phase 3B – Willow at University District subdivision with an
Amendment to Condition 11 to add that any changes to the model home complex
requires staff review and approval.
Motion carried by the following unanimous (5-0-0) roll call vote: AYES:
Austin-Dillon, Blanquie, Lam, Striplen, and Orloff; NOES: None; ABSTAIN:
None; ABSENT: None.
7. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Commissioner Blanquie requested an update on the downtown project.
9. ITEMS FROM THE DEVELOPMENT SERVICE STAFF
Staffperson Beiswenger requested availability for the November Special Planning
Commission Meeting.
10. ADJOURNMENT
Chairperson Orloff adjourned the regular meeting at 6:24 p.m.
____________________________________ ___________________________________
Marc Orloff, Chairperson Jennifer Sedna, Secretary
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CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: November 2, 2021
Item No: 6.1
Prepared By: Eydie Tacata, Management Analyst
Agenda Title: PLCI21-0001/City of Rohnert Park/FY 2021-22 Two-Year Capital
Improvements Program/General Plan Consistency
Location: Citywide
Applicant/Owner: City of Rohnert Park
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Based on the analysis and findings of this report and the
attached resolution, Staff recommends that the Planning Commission, by motion, adopt Planning
Commission Resolution No. 2021-20 reporting to the City Council that the proposed FY 2021-
22/ 2022-23 Capital Improvements Program is consistent with the Rohnert Park General Plan
2020.
BACKGROUND: The Planning Commission is charged with the responsibility for ensuring that
adopted plans are consistent with goals and policies of the adopted General Plan. The Planning
Commission is being requested to review the attached proposed The FY 2021-22 Two-Year CIP
Capital Improvements Program (CIP) to determine consistency with the General Plan. The FY
2021-22 Two-Year CIP will be considered for adoption by the Rohnert Park City Council at an
upcoming meeting in November 2021.
The CIP is a document that addresses the long-term capital improvement needs of the City (i.e.
public facilities, infrastructure improvements, and capital equipment needs). The CIP provides a
relatively long-term (five-year) strategy for physical facility and infrastructure investment, to be
approved annually in concept by the City Council.
Section 65401 of the California Government Code requires that for agencies that have adopted a
general plan, a “coordinated program of proposed public works ensuing fiscal year” (i.e. a capital
improvement plan) is to be “submitted to the city planning agency for review…as to conformity
with the adopted general plan or part thereof.” The Planning Commission has been charged with
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this responsibility by the City Council. The determination of consistency (or “conformity” as it is
sometimes called) is needed prior to the City Council’s adoption of the CIP. The Council will use
the Commission’s determination for this purpose.
The proposed FY 2021-22 Two-Year CIP is attached for the Commission’s reference. Staff has
reviewed these projects and recommends adoption of the attached resolution on finding the CIP
consistent with the General Plan. A discussion of the General Plan policies pertaining to the
proposed Capital Improvement Program projects follows.
ANALYSIS: The CIP has been reviewed for consistency with the goals and policies of the Rohnert
Park General Plan 2000 and has been found to be consistent. The following paragraphs summarize
the findings of consistency with the General Plan for each of the program areas in the CIP.
City Facilities. The CIP includes a concerted effort to maintain buildings, focusing on
maintenance projects like re-roofing of Public Safety Northern Station, upkeep of various
functional areas in the Animal Shelter, replacement of the audio/visual system at City Hall, fire
alarm system at the Performing Arts Center. The CIP also includes continued implementation of
the City’s updated Americans with Disabilities Act Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan.
These projects are consistent with the following General Plan goals and policies:
General: Maintaining the ability of the City to maintain its facilities and provide adequate services
to its residents is consistent with the overall intent of both the public facilities and health and safety
elements of the General Plan.
Parks and Recreation. The CIP includes major maintenance and capital replacement projects for
parks and recreation facilities throughout the City, including playground equipment replacement,
cardio room floor replacement at the Sports Center, and various projects at the Community Center.
Reconstruction of off-street bicycle/pedestrian pathways is ongoing. The CIP also includes
construction of new recreational facilities, including a new multi-use trail to Crane Creek Regional
Park to provide access from the urbanized area of Rohnert Park to nearby open space resources.
This project is consistent with the following General Plan goals and policies:
OS-B: Maintain land surrounding the city as open space for the enjoyment of scenic beauty,
recreation, and protection of natural resources of the community.
OS-E: Maintain publicly owned open space areas in their natural state; provide public access
in a manner that is compatible with the conservation of habitat.
OS-F: Provide an integrated system of parks and trails throughout the City to meet the
community’s recreational needs.
OS-H Ensure adequate funding for parks and recreation facilities acquisition, development,
and maintenance.
Transportation. The FY 2021-22 Two-Year CIP includes street, bike and pedestrian facility
improvements including pavement preservation projects such as overlays and street reconstruction
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projects; bicycle and pedestrian path reconstruction, including accessibility upgrades; and traffic
signal system improvements. Several major projects for complete streets implementation
throughout the City are planned for design or construction in the Two-Year CIP period, including
crossing enhancements at locations where the bike path network crosses streets; pedestrian and
bike enhancements including new sidewalks, pedestrian lighting, improved bike lanes and
enhanced streetscapes on the Southwest Boulevard Corridor between Commerce Boulevard and
Adrian Drive.
These improvements are consistent with the following General Plan goals and policies:
CD-I Ensure that neighborhood streets provide an attractive physical environment for
motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.
CD-J Maintain the character of existing neighborhoods while undertaking streetscape and
signage improvements in selected areas.
CD-K Provide safe, convenient, and comfortable pedestrian connections within commercial
centers and between commercial centers and adjacent sites and residential
neighborhoods.
TR-A: Promote safe and efficient vehicular circulation throughout Rohnert Park.
TR-B: Maintain high levels of mobility along all major street segments and at major
intersections.
TR-C: Build new roads and improve existing roadways, where necessary, in conjunction with
new development.
TR-F: Encourage alternative modes of travel….
TR-2: Ensure that mitigation measures are coordinated with roadway improvements
programmed for funding through transportation-related impact fees.
TR-6, TR-11, and TR-12: Use the City's Capital Improvement Program as a means to prioritize
and undertake roadway improvements….; to prioritize and undertake the intersection
improvements….; and to establish priorities for roadway improvements and prepare
an action program for implementation.
TR-N: Promote safe, efficient, and comfortable circulation for cyclists and pedestrians
throughout Rohnert Park.
TR-R: Continue to develop a comprehensive network of bikeways that promote bicycle
riding for transportation and recreation.
TR-T Balance the need of arterial and collector roadways to efficiently carry traffic, with
establishing Central Rohnert Park as a walkable, bikable community, with pedestrian-
oriented streets, centers, and mixed-use subareas.
TR-47 Retrofit existing streets as complete streets, in addition to providing vehicular access
that supports safe and continuous bike and pedestrian facilities and landscape
improvements.
Water System. The proposed CIP includes various improvements to the water system, including
upgrading water pipelines; replacing large commercial water meters; replacing aging well pumps
4
and motors; and upgrade of controls and telemetry to better monitor well production and overall
distribution and flow water supply and fire suppression. A new water tank is also planned to serve
new development on the east side of town.
These projects are consistent with the following General Plan goals and policies:
PF-E: Provide sufficient quantities of water for Rohnert Park residents and businesses, while
ensuring that safe groundwater is not exceeded.
PF-11: monitor the operation of the municipal well field on a monthly basis to ensure that
production does not exceed the recharge rates….
Wastewater System. The proposed CIP includes projects that preserve the sewer collection
system such as sewer line replacements and inflow-and-infiltration strategies in the older section
of Rohnert Park and manhole rehabilitation.
These projects are consistent with the following General Plan goals and policies:
PF-D: Ensure that adequate wastewater facilities and services are available to meet the needs
of existing and new development.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The recommended finding of consistency is not a
project pursuant to Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines
(CEQA) and additionally, since this is a consistency finding the previous environmental
documentation for the General Plan is adequate CEQA documentation.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION: Pursuant to Government Code Section 65401 and City Ordinance,
no public hearing is required to report on the Capital Improvement Program’s consistency with the
General Plan.
Planning Manager Approval Date: October 26, 2021
Attachments (list in packet assembly order):
1. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2021-20
2. FY 2021-22 Two-Year Capital Improvements Program: Project Descriptions
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2021-20
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT
PARK FINDING THE FY 2020-21 TWO-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
PROGRAM IS CONSISTENT WITH THE ROHNERT PARK GENERAL PLAN 2020
City of Rohnert Park
WHEREAS, on July 25, 2000 the City Council approved Resolution No. 2000-152
adopting a comprehensive update of the City's General Plan which included specific policies and
objectives for infrastructure, construction and maintenance of public facilities; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission is appointed by the City Council as the Planning
Agency for the City of Rohnert Park and is required by State law to review and find that all
proposed projects included in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) as provided in Exhibit A
are consistent with the adopted General Plan; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, the Project
manager has determined that finding the Capital Improvement Program in conformance with the
General Plan is not a project pursuant to Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines, and additionally,
since this is consistency finding, the previous environmental documentation for the General Plan
is adequate CEQA documentation; and
WHEREAS, on November 2, 2021, the Planning Commission reviewed Planning
Application No. PLCI21-0001 FY 2020-21 Two-Year Capital Improvement Program General Plan
Consistency, at which time interested persons had an opportunity to testify either in support or
opposition to the project; and,
WHEREAS, at the November 2, 2021 Planning Commission special meeting, upon
hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, if any, of all persons desiring to be heard,
the Commission considered all the facts relating to PLCI2 1-0001 FY 2020-21 Two-Year Capital
Improvement Program General Plan Consistency.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ROHNERT PARK DOES RESOLVE: that the Planning Commission of the City of Rohnert
Park does hereby find that the proposed FY 2020-21 Two-Year Capital Improvement Program, as
attached and incorporated herein (Exhibit A), is consistent with the adopted City of Rohnert Park
Comprehensive General Plan and incorporates all information and comment provided at its
November 2, 2021 public meeting as part of its finding, including the staff report.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Planning Commission
does hereby report to the City Council that FY 2020-21 Two-Year Capital Improvement Program,
Planning Application No. PLCI21 -0001 is consistent with the Rohnert Park General Plan 2020.
Reso 2021-20
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DULY AND REGULARLY ADOPTED on this 2nd day of November, 2021 by the City
of Rohnert Park Planning Commission by the following vote:
AYES: _____ NOES:_____ ABSENT:_____ ABSTAIN:_____
AUSTIN-DILLON____ BLANQUIE____ LAM____ ORLOFF____ STRIPLEN____
__
Marc Orloff, Chairperson, Rohnert Park Planning Commission
Attest: __________________________________________
Jennifer Sedna, Recording Secretary
Attachments: Exhibit A
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
1
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
CITY FACILITIES
OF-39 2006-04 Copeland Creek Detention
Basin & Refugia
Addresses a significant amount of existing
flooding throughout the City by capturing water
upstream in the proposed flood basin.
Copeland Creek
Public Facilities Fee, State Grant
(through SCWA), Copeland Creek
Drainage Fee, Federal Grant,
Developer Contribution
90% design and CEQA complete.
NEPA environmental
documentation to begin in early
2022 for funding compliance.
OF-72 2018-27 ADA Transition Plan
Implementation
Implementation of measures to comply with
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards
for accessibility, as recommended in City's
updated ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition
Plan.
City-owned facilities Infrastructure Reserve Modifications and upgrades to City
facilities through 2022
OF-76 2019-23 Public Safety Northern
Station Roof Replacement Replace roof at Northern Fire Station
Northern Fire Station
(5200 Country Club
Drive)
Infrastructure Reserve Fund Design in Winter 2021, repairs in
Summer 2022
OF-78 2019-27 Buildings Major Repairs Various major repair and maintenance projects Citywide Infrastructure Reserve Fund Ongoing program as current
funding allows.
OF-83 2020-24 Habitat Mitigation &
Monitoring Plan
Biological resource mitigation (e.g. native plant
re-estasblishment) in conjunction with CEQA,
NEPA and/or resource agency environmental
requirements for capital projects
Various locations in
accordance with
project environmental
document, mitigation
and monitoring plan
Public Facilities Fee
Coordinating with Water Agency
for hand off to their maintenance
plan for Eastside Trunk Sewer
mitigation. Currently have 3 years
left for Water Tank 8 Mitigation
Monitoring.
OF-88 2021-06 City Hall Audio and Video
Replacement Project
Replacement of the audio and video system at
City Hall Council Chambers City Hall Digital Infrastructure and Video
Fund Construction in April 2022
NEW NEW Public Safety Main Rehab
Projects
Repair fire bay floor, polished concrete
maintenance on first floor, vehicle gate repair,
interior paint of 30 doors and 33 horn strobes,
radio-to PA System repair
Public Safety Main Infrastructure Reserve Construction in Spring 2022
NEW NEW
Animal Shelter Rehab
Projects (Laundry/grooming,
Kennelksewer)
Rehabilitation of the laundry/dog grooming
room, including floor and tub replacement, and
repair of sewer line in dog kennel
Animal Shelter Infrastructure Reserve Design Winter 2021, repairs
Summer 2022
NEW NEW PAC - Upgrade Fire Alarm
Panel
Replacing the Fire Alarm panel at the PAC to
make it a stand alone system, apart from the
Community Center
PAC Infrastructure Reserve Design spring 2022, Construction
Fall 2022
Exhibit A
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
2
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
NEW NEW Station 2 and 4 Comtech
Heart Safe System
Installation of heart safe alarm system at
Station 2 and 4 Fire Station 2 and 4 General Fund Installation Summer 2022
NEW NEW
ADA Transition Plan - ADA
Lifts Repair at PAC,
Community Center, Gold
Ridge MU
Repairs to ADA lifts at the PAC, Community
Center MU room and Gold Ridge MU Building
PAC, Community
Center, and Goldridge
MU
PAC Facility Fee, Infrastructure
Reserve Repairs Spring 2022
NEW Park Electrical Replacement
Fund (non-routine)Replacement of electrical panels at parks Magnolia Park, Eagle
Park Infrastructure Reserve Design and Repairs Summer 2022
PARKS AND RECREATION
PR-49 2007-19 Trail to Crane Creek Regional
Park
Construction of multi-use trail connecting
service road to Water Tank No. 8 east of
Petaluma Hill Road to Crane Creek Regional
Park. This trail is part of a multi-phased project
connecting the Copeland Creek Bike Path at its
terminus in Sonoma State University to the
regional park.
East of Petaluma Hill
Road
Open Space District matching
grant, City in-kind match (staff
time, value of water tank service
road), Transportation
Development Act Article 3 (TDA3)
allocation
Phase 1- Segment B (multi-use trail
from water tank road to Crane
Creek Regional Park) is 100%
designed and bid documents are
ready. Traffic signal is undergoing
engineering and permitting.
OF-63 2017-22 Creek Path and Sidewalk
Replacement
Replacement of asphalt bicycle/pedestrian
paths in various locations with concrete path;
replacement of damaged concrete sidewalk
Locations for 2021-22
phase TBD, dependent
on funding
Infrastructure Reserve,
Neighborhood Upgrade Fund,
Gas Tax, Casino Supplemental
Contribution, Wilfred Lane
Maintenance
Crane Creek Bike/Ped Path segment
west of Snyder is being completed
Fall 2021.
PR-118 2019-24 Ladybug Park Pool Buildings
Demolition
Demolition of old pool buildings and associated
infrastructure Ladybug Park
Infrastructure Reserve,
Neighborhood Upgrade &
Workforce Housing
Design and demolition of pool
building and associated
infrastructure summer 2022
(electrical decommissioning
occurred summer 2021)
PR-119 2019-25 Community Center Upgrades
& Gas Line Replacement
Community Center Multi-Use Room flooring
replacement, various modifications and repairs
to storage rooms, doors, windows in the atrium
and MU, replacement of gas line outise of the
Community Center
Rohnert Park
Community Center
(5401 Snyder Lane)
Community Services Facility Fee,
Infrastructure Reserve,
Neighborhood Upgrade &
Workforce Housing
Design spring 2022, Construction
Fall 2022
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
3
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
PR-124 2020-30 Magnolia Pool Replastering Replastering of deteriorating pool surface Magnolia Pool Infrastructure Reserve Design complete, construction
Winter 2021
2019-30 Corporation Yard Relocation Relocation of Corporation Yard to another
location with future Downtown development
Unknown location
within City Water Utility Fund On hold
NEW NEW Civic Center Playground
Replacement
Replacement of the playground structures at
Civic Center Park Civic Center Park Prop 68 Funds Design/Construction Winter
2022/Spring 2023
NEW NEW Park Benches and Shade
Structures Replacement
Replaement of park benches and shade
structures in various parks
Alicia; Benicia,
Honeybee, Golis, and
Roberts Lake Parks
Measure M Parks Spring 2022
NEW NEW Parks Playground Equipment
Replacement
Replacement of small playground equipment as
it fails
Various Parks - as
needed Measure M Parks on going
NEW Cardio Room Floor
Replacement Replacement of cardio room floor Sports Center Sports Center Facility Fee Replacement of cardio room floor
Spring 2022
TRANSPORTATION
TR-126 2019-28 Traffic Signal System Non-
Routine Maintenace
Program of ongoing traffic signal system
components replacement
Various locations
Citywide
Road Maintenance and Repair
Act ("SB1"), Gas Tax, Casino
Supplemental Contribution
As needed infrastructure repairs on
a complaint/ needed basis.
Ongoing.
TR-128 2020-12 Railroad Adjacent Safety
Improvements
Pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle safety
improvements in vicinity of SMART rail
crossings at Golf Course Drive, Rohnert Park
Expressway, and Southwest Boulevard
SMART rail crossings at
Golf Course Drive,
Rohnert Park
Expressway, and
Southwest Boulevard
Gas Tax, Measure M, Road
Maintenance and Repair Act
("SB1")
On-going
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
4
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
TR-132 2020-22 Local Road Safety Plan
Data-driven traffic safety plan to identify and
analyze safety problems and recommend safety
improvements that reduce traffic accident
fatalities and serious injuries on City streets.
Citywide / Locations
TBD Federal transportation grant In progress.
TR-133 2020-23
Southwest Blvd Complete
Streets (Roundabout to
Adrian) Drive
Complete streets implementation of Southwest
Boulevard between Commerce Boulevard and
Adrian Drive, including pavement rehabilitation,
lane reconfiguration (i.e. road diet), new
sidewalks, modification of existing sidewalks,
bike lane rehabilitation/installation,
landscaping, street lighting improvements,
crosswalk enhancements
Southwest Blvd
(Commerce Boulevard
to Adrian)
Road Maintenance and Repair
Act ("SB1")
Preliminary engineering and design
in Winter 2021/2022. CEQA and
NEPA environmental Spring 2022.
TR-134 2020-25 Traffic Signal Infrastructure
Replacement
Replacement program of hardware, cabinets,
controllers,
Citywide, with priority
on main arterials
Casino Supplemental
Contribution On-going
TR-142 2020-28
RPX/Commerce &
QuickStrike Ped Safety
Improvements
Implementation of pedestrian safety measures
which may include pedestrian refuge, enhanced
crossing, signal timing adjustments, intersection
reconfiguration.
Rohnert Park
Expressway at
Commerce Boulevard
Federal Grant, Casino
Supplemental
NEPA environmental and design in
progress. Construction expected
Spring/Summer 2022.
TR-84 2017-07 Southwest / Commerce
Roundabout
Conversion of existing Intersection into a
roundabout, as as informed by Traffic Signals
System Needs Study (TR-104) and Traffic Flow
Improvement Study (TR-102)
Commerce Blvd @
Southwest Blvd
Public Facilities Fee, Traffic
Signalization Fee Fund, Measure
M, Gas Tax
Project has been awarded to
contractor. Construction start in
late-2021/early-2022.
TR-124 2018-41
Rohnert Park Expwy/State
Farm Dr Traffic
Improvements
Modifications to Rohnert Park Expressway and
State Farm Drive to add pedestrian refuges, add
two traffic signals, median improvements, and
modify signal timing and striping; median and
pedestrian improvements on Enterprise Drive
Rohnert Park
Expressway, State Farm
Drive, Enterprise Drive
SB1 Gas Tax, Infrastructure
Reserve, 2007R Bond Loan
Repayment
Design in-progress.
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
5
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
OF-71 2018-26 Wooden Pole Streetlights
Replacement
Replacement of wooden pole streetlights with
current street light standard.
F and H Section
neighborhoods, Golf
Course Drive
Casino Mitigation MOU /
Neighborhood Upgrade &
Workforce Housing Contribution,
Infrastructure Reserve Fund, Gas
Tax
Fairway Drive replacements
planned for next phase, pending
availability of funding. Scaled-back
replacement program will be for
replacing streetlight pole
knockdowns only.
TR-98 2015-11
Pavement Repair Services
(ongoing non-capital
pavement maintenance)
Repairs to pavement throughout the City Various locations
Citywide Refuse Road Impact Fund Budget appropriation for project is
established.
NEW NEW Sidewalk Replacement
Program Repairs to sidewalk throughout the City Various locations
Citywide Infrastructure Reserve Budget appropriation for project is
established.
NEW NEW Bicycle & Pedestrian Master
Plan Draft Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Citywide Infrastructure Reserve
RFP for Consultant Summer 2022,
Master Plan preparation Winter
2022
NEW NEW Holly-Fauna Bridge
Feasibility Study
Conduct feasibility study to construct an
emergency vehicle ext bridge between Holly
and Fauna
Holly and Fauna Infrastructure Reserve RFP for feasibility Study winter
2021, Study spring 2022
NEW NEW ADA Transition Plan Phase II -
ROW
Phase II of the City's ADA Transition Plan to
assess the accessibility in the City's public right-
of-way areas
Citywide Infrastructure Reserve RFP for Phase II ADA Transition Plan
Summer 2022, Plan Winter 2022
NEW NEW Pothole Repair Maintenance Ongoing pothole repair maintenance Citywide Infrastructure Reserve ongoing
TR-106 NEW Central Rohnert Park PDA
Complete Streets
Includes repaving several streets in the Priority
Development Plan area and installing enhanced
safety features for bicycles and pedestrians,
including striping, bridges, and median features
to separate vehicles from bicycles and
pedestrians. Project includes wayfinding, public
benches, and ornamental lighting.
State Farm Drive,
Enterprise Drive,
Professional Center
Drive, and Commerce
Boulevard
Gas Tax, Measure M
Transportation
Design 2022-2023, construction
2024-2025
TR-116 2017-17 East Cotati Avenue Paving Broad reconstruction (full-depth reclamation or
deep-lift asphalt) with asphalt overlay.East Cotati Avenue
Gas Tax, SB1-RMRA, Measure M
Transportation, Road Refuse
Impact Fund
Spring 2022
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
6
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
TR-137 NEW 2021-22 VS Preventative
Maintenance
Preventative maintenance treatments as guided
by Pavement Management Program, which may
include slurry seal, cape seal, overlay or similar
treatments on various City streets
Various Streets in A & B
Section
Gas Tax, SB1-RMRA, Measure M
Transportation, Infrastructure
Reserve
2021-2022
TR-141 NEW 2023-24 Various Streets
Pavement Management
Preventative maintenance treatments as guided
by Pavement Management Program on various
City streets
Various Streets SB1-RMRA, Infrastructure
Reserve 2023-2024
TR-130 2020-20 Dowdell Avenue Extension
Design and construction of utilities, sidewalk,
and roadway between Business Park Drive and
Golf Course Drive West in alignment with
Dowdell Avenue and within the City's existing
right-of-way.
Dowdell Avenue
between Business Park
Drive and Golf Course
Drive West
Public Facilities Fee Alignment study completed. Pre-
design Fall 2021
NEW NEW
Highway 101
Bicycle/Pedestrian
Overcrossing
Multi-modal overcrossing over Highway 101,
creating a safe and much needed bicycle and
pedestrian connection between the west and
east side of town. Potential opportunity to
create a gateway feature to the City and
encourage bicycle and pedestrian commuting.
Commerce Blvd @
Avram to Redwood
Drive
Infrastructure Reserve
Pre-design/feasibility fall 2021,
design 2022, construction 2023-
2024
NEW NEW HSIP Signalized Intersections
Replacement of pedestrian buttons and
countdowns, the traffic signal heads, the
battery backup systems, and other items on the
traffic signals
Citywide Federal Grant, Infrastructure
Reserve
Design Winter 2021, repairs
Summer 2022
NEW NEW Bikeshare Implementation
Right-of-way improvements to enhance
bikeshare stations as the county-wide bikeshare
program trial period begins.
Citywide Gas Tax Winter 2021/Spring 2022
NEW NEW Snyder Lane/Keiser Avenue
Intersection Improvements
Street intersection improvements and utility
upgrades in vicinity of Snyder Lane and Keiser
Avenue intersection
Snyder Lane/Keiser
Avenue Public Facilities Fee Design Winter 2021, repairs
Summer 2022
WASTEWATER
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
7
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
WW-
29 2017-09 Wet Well Lining Station 1
and 2
Cleaning and lining the wet well at the City's
Pump Station #2 building, includingo includes
lining the grinder pits to prevent further
deterioration due to the corrosive sewer gases
at each of these facilities.
Pump Station 1 and 2 Sewer Utility Fund Summer 2022
WW-
31 2017-11 I & I Reduction (Manhole
Coating)
Epoxy coating of manhole barrel and cone
section Citywide Sewer Utility Fund, Sewer Capital
Preservation
Resume ongoing program in FY
2023-2024
WW-
34 2018-07 Utilities Office (Sewer
Component)
A facility planning/programming study and pre-
design for new or rehabilitated building for
utilities (sewer and water) staff and functions.
To be determined Sewer Utility Fund Facility programming and design to
commence in FY 2022.
WW-
37 2019-20 A Section Sewer Line
Replacement
Rehabilitation and/or replacement of sewer
system infrastructure, which may include mains
and lower laterals.
Adele Avenue, Alison
Avenue, Commerce
Boulevard and vicinity
Sewer Utility Fund
Project scoping, preliminary
engineering and pre-design in
progress.
WW-
42 2017-07 Roundabout Manhole
Abandonment
Sewer manhole abandonment in preparation
for roundabout project.
Vicinity of Commerce
Blvd @ Southwest Blvd Sewer Capital Preservation
Roundabout project is in project
scoping and preliminary
engineering.
WW-
43 2017-17 Manhole Lid Replacement
on East Cotati Ave Paving
Replacement of manhole lids on segments of
East Cotati Avenue concurrent with paving
project.
East Cotati Avenue
(Sunflower Drive to
Snyder Lane)
Sewer Capital Preservation
Design and construction drawings
of paving project (including
manhole cover adjustments) are
near completion. Coordination with
PG&E in progress.
WW-
45 2020-15 I & I Reduction - B Section
(East of Adrian)
Various strategies to reduce groundwater and
surface water inflow and infiltration (I & I) into
sewer collection system
Locations in B Section
as determined by
sewer master plan
Sewer Capital Preservation In progress.
WW-
51 Forcemain Rehab Ph. 3
Performing investigative work to determine the
condition of the city's older sewer main that
runs to the Laguna Treatment Plant, and
perform design work based on the outcome of
that investigation.
Locations between City
Pump Station and
Laguna Treatment Plan
to be determined
Sewer Capital Preservation Design Summer 2022, construction
2023-2024
WW-
48 Pump Station Mechanical
Projects
Various repair and maintenance projects at the
city's pump stations 1-3.Pump Stations 1-3 Sewer Utility Fund, Sewer Capital
Preservation Ongoing
NEW NEW
Water, sewer, storm water
and recycled water mapping
project
GIS base mapping for water, sewer, storm
water and recycled water Program Sewer Utility Fund Spring 2022
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
8
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
WATER
WA-44 2017-30 Water Systems Controls and
Telemetry Upgrade of water telemetry system Citywide Water Utility Fund, Water Capital
Preservation Charge Implementation in progress.
WA-59 2019-18 Water Meter Replacements Replacement of large commercial water meters Various locations
Citywide
Water Capital Preservation
Charge, Sewer Capital
Preservation Charge
Ongoing starting 2022
WA-60 2019-19 Well Pump/Motor
Replacement Replacing well pumps and motors Citywide Water Utility Fund, Water Capital
Preservation Charge ongoing
WA-63 2020-16 Well Electrical & Structural
Upgrades
Upgrades of electrical systems at water wells
sites; stuctural repairs to building, inlcuding
roofing, siding, and doors and locks; well site
security.
Wells 7, 11, 13, 16, 27
& 39
Water Capacity Charge, Water
Capital Preservation Charge
design Winter 2021, construction
2022-2024
WA-64 2020-17
Tank & Pump Seismic
Bracing Evaluation &
Correction
Water system resiliency and seismic upgrades
to water distrubution system infrastructure Citywide Water Capital Preservation
Charge Construction 2022
WA-65 2019-20 A Section/Commerce Water
Line Replacement Ph 1
Water main replacement and/or upgrade
concurrent with sewer system work in
southwest A Section
Adele Avenue, Alison
Avenue, Commerce
Boulevard and vicinity
Water Utility Fund Design Spring 2022, construction
2022-2023
WA-53 2018-07 Utilities Office
A facility planning/programming study and pre-
design for new or rehabilitated building for
utilities (sewer and water) staff and functions.
Pump Station Water Utility Fund Design Winter 2021
WA-54 2018-08 Water System Master Plan
Study/planning document to determine
necessary water distribution system capital
upgrades and major maintenance for optimum
system preservation and future capacity.
City wide plan Water Utility Fund In progress
WA-67 Water Tank #9 Construction of new Tank #9 adjacent to Tank
#8 Off Petaluma Hill Road Water Capacity Charge Design 2022, construction 2023-
2024
WA-68 Tank Interior Recoating Recoating of interior of Water Tanks Various locations
Citywide Water Utility Fund FY 2022-2023
WA-70 B Section Water Line
Replacement
Program of water line replacement concurrent
with sewer line replacement
Various locations in B
Section
Water Utility Fund, Water Capital
Preservation Fund
Design Winter 2021, construction
2022-2023
FY 2021-22 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN (CIP) BUDGET
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
9
CIP #Proj. #Project Title Description Location Funding Source Project Status
WA-71
Aqueduct Tie-In
Replacement/Upgrade
(Velocity)
Project identified in Water System Master Plan Various locations
Citywide Water Capital Preservation Fund Design Spring 2022, construction
2023-2024
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: November 2, 2021
Item No: 6.2
Prepared By: Mary Grace Pawson, Development Services Director
Agenda Title: Informational Presentation – 2020 Urban Water Management Plan
Location: NA
GP/Zoning: NA
Applicant/Owner: City of Rohnert Park
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive an informational report on the City’s 2020 Urban Water
Management Plan.
BACKGROUND: The Urban Water Management Planning Act (Act) is codified in California
Water Code Sections 10610 through 10656 and requires each urban water supplier with 3,000 or
more connections, or which supplies at least 3,000 acre-feet per year (AFY) of water, to submit
an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) to the California Department of Water Resources
(DWR) every five years. The City has approximately 9,700 connections and meets the definition
of an “urban water supplier”. The UWMPs are foundational documents that outline an agency’s
long-term strategy for meeting anticipated water demands. The UWMPs are used to support
Water Supply Assessments (WSAs) and Water Supply Verifications (WSVs) for new
development. The UWMPs are exempt from review under CEQA.
In 2009, the Water Conservation Act of 2009 added a requirement that every water supplier
develop and adopt a “per capita” baseline water use and per capita water use targets for 2015 and
2020 with its 2010 UWMP. The purpose of the water use targets is to ensure that public water
suppliers’ reduce per capita water use by 20% by 2020, over the baseline. Water suppliers are
required to report on their compliance with their targets in their 2020 UWMPs. Recent changes
to state law also require that the City review and re-adopt its Water Shortage Contingency Plan
with its UWMP.
The City prepared UWMPs in 2005. 2010 and 2015. Prior to that, it adopted regional UWMPs
developed by the Sonoma County Water Agency. The proposed 2020 UWMP is an update of the
2015 document and continues to document that the City has a reliable water supply portfolio.
ANALYSIS:
City’s Water Supply Portfolio: The Urban Water Management Planning Act requires that the
City evaluate its water supply portfolio under “normal” conditions, single dry year conditions
and multiple dry year conditions. Single dry year conditions are determined by the driest year on
record, which is currently 1977. Multiple dry year conditions are the driest five years on record,
which are currently 1987 through 1991.
City has three water supply sources, purchased water from Sonoma County Water Agency, local
groundwater and recycled water purchased from Santa Rosa Water. These three sources of
supply provide the City with high degree of reliability, including the ability to manage
constraints on one supply by utilizing the others. The City has evaluated each of these sources
for reliability since 2005 and based on its current analysis is planning on 6,250 acre-feet (AF)
from Sonoma Water, 2,577 AF from groundwater and 1,350 AF from recycled water, for a total
of just over 10,000 AF in supply, in normal and multiple dry years.
Figure 1 illustrates the water supply that the City has projected to have available from each
source in normal and multiple dry years in its 2005, 2010, 2015and 2020 Urban Water
Management Plans. The City’s project of approximately 10,000 AF in water supply has been
consistent over time.
FIGURE 1- NORMAL AND MULTIPLE DRY YEAR SUPPLY PROJECTIONS
While the City’s groundwater and recycled water supplies are also reliable in the single dry year
condition, the City’s analysis indicates that the Sonoma Water supply is constrained in the single dry
year. The City anticipates having 4,925 AF available from Sonoma Water in single dry years, making its
total water supply 8,852 AF in single dry years. Figure 2 illustrates that the projections of water supply
available in single dry years from Sonoma Water has decreased over time. This trend emphasizes the
importance of continuing to work with Sonoma Water on projects that enhance the reliability and
resiliency of its supply. Current projects are discussed briefly in the “Supply Enhancement” section
below.
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2005 UWMP 2010 UWMP 2015 UWMP 2020 UWMP
Water Supply Available in Normal and Multiple
Dry Years
Sonoma Water Groundwater Recycled Water
FIGURE 2- SINGLE DRY YEAR SUPPLY PROJECTIONS
City’s Water Use Projections: The Urban Water Management Planning Act requires that the
City project its water demands for the next 20 to 25 years. For the 2020 UWMP demands were
projected using the Association of Bay Area Government’s Plan Bay Area population projections
and validated with the General Plan 2040 projections. The City estimates its buildout water
demands will be just under 7,300 AF. Which is consistent with projections from the 2010 and
2015 Urban Water Management Plans (the 2005 Plan estimated buildout water demands at over
9,000 AF). Figure 3 illustrates the City’s buildout water demands as they have been projected
over time. It is also important to note that the this Urban Water Management Plan documents
that the City is using its full allocation of recycled water from Santa Rosa water and future
efforts to optimize recycled water use will be necessary if the City’s wishes to supply more new
users with recycled water.
FIGURE 3 – WATER DEMAND PROJECTIONS
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2005 UWMP 2010 UWMP 2015 UWMP 2020 UWMP
Water Supply Available in Single Dry Years
Sonoma Water Groundwater Recycled Water
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
8000
9000
10000
2005 UWMP
(Buildout 2030)
2010 UWMP
(Buildout 2035)
2015
UWMP(Buildout
2040)
2020 UWMP
(Buildoout 2045)
Buildout Water Demands
Reliability of the City’s Water Supply: One of the most important analyses included in the
Urban Water Management Plan is the comparison of water supply to water demands. If projected
water demands exceed supply, then the Urban Water Management Plan must describe the water
suppliers’ plans to ensure adequate supply. Plans can included expanding supply, reducing
demand through conservation or both. The City’s projects a supply surplus of 2,978 AF in
normal and multiple dry years and supply surplus of 1,593 AF in single dry years in 2045.
Figures 4 and 5 illustrate these comparisons. While the City will continue to work to manage
demand and expand supply reliability, these actions are not necessary to ensure a balance
between supply and demand.
FIGURE 4 – SUPPLY AND DEMAND COMPARISON FOR NORMAL AND MULTIPLE DRY YEARS
FIGURE 5 – SUPPLY AND DEMAND COMPARISON FOR SINGLE DRY YEARS
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2005 UWMP 2010 UWMP 2015 UWMP 2020 UWMP
Supply and Demand Comparison -Normal and
Multiple Dry Years
Supply Totals Demand Totals
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2005 UWMP 2010 UWMP 2015 UWMP 2020 UWMP
Supply and Demand Comparisons -Single Dry
Years
Supply Totals Demand Totals
City’s Compliance with the Water Conservation Act of 2009: The Water Conservation Act of
2009 set a goal of achieving a 20 percent statewide reduction in urban per capita water use by
December 31, 2020 (“20 by 2020”). The Water Conservation Act required each urban water
supplier to set 2015 and 2020 water use targets in their 2010 Urban Water Management Plans
and report on progress towards meeting those targets in their 2015 and 2020 Urban Water
Management Plans. Water use targets are calculated by taking all potable water use in the City in
all sectors (single family, multifamily, commercial, institutional, industrial and landscape) and
dividing it by the total population. While targets are reported gallons per capita per day (gpcpd)
because they are calculated by dividing all water use by the population, the target value does not
attempt to represent “average” use per resident in their home.
In 2010, the City set a 2020 target of 119 gallons per capita per day, which it was allowed to
revise to 123 gpcpd in 2015 because of more accurate population information from the 2010
census. The City’s actual per capita water use in 2020 was 96 gpcpd. Figure 6 illustrates the
City’s progression towards successfully meeting its water use target.
FIGURE 6 – WATER USE WITH RESPECT TO TARGETS ESTABLISHED UNDER THE WATER CONSERVATION ACT OF 2009
Ongoing Considerations
Drought Risk Assessments: The 2020 Urban Water Management includes a new Drought Risk
Assessment where the City’s projected demands for the next five years are compared against the
five driest years on record. Figure 7 illustrates that supplies are adequate to meet demands in the
event of a near-term drought. The drought risk assessment will be performed annually and
submitted to the state, which will help inform drought preparedness in between the five year
Urban Water Management plan cycles.
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
2015 2020
Water Use Compared to Adopted Targets
Target Actual
FIGURE 7 – 2020 DROUGHT RISK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
Contingency Planning: The City’s updated Water Shortage Contingency Plan is included as an
Appendix to the 2020 UWMP. This plan outlines the actions the City will take under various
supply restrictions.
Supply Enhancements: While not specifically required because of a supply and demand
imbalance, the City will continue to work with Sonoma Water and the Groundwater
Sustainability Agency to develop and implement projects that improve supply reliability.
Projects currently under development include:
• Regional Resiliency Study, which is in progress and seeks to optimize connections
between Sonoma Water’s infrastructure and the infrastructure maintained by the various
water contractors
• Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations, which allows more flexibility in operating Lake
Mendocino and possible Lake Sonoma, to better prepare for droughts and floods
• Aquifer Storage and Recovery, which would allow surface water to recharge groundwater
so that both supplies can be used to manage increasing variability in rainfall patterns.
Demand Management: The City has successfully reduced demand on its system over time
through improving building codes, plumbing codes and landscape design requirements. The City
has also provided some rebates and worked primarily through Sonoma Marin Water Savings
Partnership and Sonoma Water to educate the public with respect to best water use practices.
New state legislation will be putting more focus on demand management including establishing
new standards for per capita water use. The City can anticipate ongoing investments in demand
management programs to address these new state requirements.
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Drought Risk Assessment
Supply Totals Demand Totals
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: Water Code Section 10652 statutorily exempts the
Urban Water Management and Water Shortage Contingency Plans from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The Urban Water Management Plan can serve as a foundational document to assist in the
analysis of the development projects. The 2020 UWMP is based on the development projections
outlined in the City’s General Plan 2040 update, which will allow 2020 UWMP to support the
CEQA analysis for the General Plan Update and for development consistent with the General
Plan update.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION: As required by the Act, the City Council is scheduled to hold a
public hearing on the 2020 UWMP on November 9, 2021. The Public Hearing Notice was
published in the Community Voice on October 22, October 29 and will be published a third time
on November 5.
Planning Manager Approval Date: 10/25/21
Attachments (list in packet assembly order):
The City’s Urban Water Management Plans for 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020 can be found at:
https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/departments/development_services/engineering/water_supply_docu
mentation
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: November 2, 2021
Item No: 6.3
Prepared By: Jeffrey Beiswenger, Planning Manager
Agenda Title: Study Session on General Plan Update – Racial, Social and Environmental
Justice Element
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive a presentation and provide direction on the Racial
Social and Environmental Justice Element goals and policies in the draft General Plan.
BACKGROUND: As part of the General Plan update process, staff is receiving input on the
draft elements from the City Council. To date, the City Council has reviewed and commented
on:
• Introduction
• Economic Development
• Community Development
• Circulation
• Climate Change
Staff is in the process of compiling a complete public review draft over the next few months. The
draft will include an environmental justice component to comply with Senate Bill 1000 (SB
1000). Approved in 2016, in response to increasing concerns about vulnerable communities in
California experiencing environmental injustice, SB 1000 requires general plans adopted after
January 1, 2018 to incorporate environmental justice goals, policies, and objectives to address
health risks in disadvantaged communities. SB 1000 requires that local agencies adopt policies to
address environmental justice by reducing unique or compounded health risks in disadvantaged
communities. SB 1000 directs local agencies to consider policies that reduce exposure to
pollutants or other hazards, promote healthy habits, prioritize infrastructure improvements and
programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities, and promote civic engagement
in the public decision-making process.
While the City initially elected not to include a stand-alone Environmental Justice Element, but
rather to satisfy the legal requirements of SB 1000 within the Community Development Element,
at the April 27, 2021 meeting, the City Council directed the preparation of a stand-alone element
that addresses racial, social and environmental justice issues. The Racial, Social and
Environmental Justice (RSEJ) Element, included as Attachment 1, will meet and exceed the
requirements of SB 1000.
The RSEJ Element consolidates goals and policies directly related to environmental justice that
were previously located in other elements such as Community Development and Public
Facilities. In the final draft of the General Plan, additional goals and policies that support Racial,
Social and Environmental Justice Element, but not located in this element, will be identified with
a symbol or graphic.
ANALYSIS: The Racial, Social and Environmental Justice Element is divided into three
subsections: Racial and Social Justice with three goals and sixteen policies, Environmental
Justice with two goals and ten policies, and Civic Engagement in the Public Decision-Making
Process with one goal and six policies. The implementation programs (Section 4.4) will guide
City actions. Each implementation program listed relates to one or more policies.
The following is a summary of each subsection and the related implementation programs:
Section 4.1 Racial and Social Justice
This section identifies goals and policies which seek to advance City efforts toward diversity and
inclusivity. Implementation programs allow the City to monitor its progress in achieving racial,
social, and environmental justice, including an annual survey. This section outlines City efforts
to establish a more racially and socially just community. This section includes the following
goals:
1. To support equity, inclusion, and access to opportunities for all community members,
employees, businesses, visitors, and local organizations. Policies grouped under this goal
focus on creating a more welcoming city to all. This includes working with the Sonoma
County of Office and Equity, expanding access to affordable housing, and exploring
ways to celebrate city diversity.
2. To respect, protect, and promote the civil and human rights of all members of the
community. Policies under this goal focus on services for socially disadvantaged
communities and ensuring that City boards, committees, and commission have a diverse
representation. The City also commits to anti-bias hiring procedures, public safety
collaboration with underrepresented groups and City staff diversity training. Also
included under this goal is the implementation of an alternative response model to assist
those experiencing homelessness.
3. To broaden income and employment opportunities for all Rohnert Park residents. The
policies under this goal focus on employment training, workforce development and
helping to improve wage levels. Many of the implementation programs to implement this
goal are found in the Economic Development Element (related to employment growth).
This element includes an implementation program to expand recruitment of diverse
candidates for City positions.
Section 4.2 Environmental Justice
The section implements Senate Bill 1000 (SB 1000). Effective environmental justice policies are
those that reduce the unique or compounded health risks in disadvantaged communities by
reducing disproportionate exposure to pollutants or other hazards, promote healthy habits,
prioritize necessary infrastructure improvements and programs, and promoting civic engagement
in the public decision-making process. This section includes the following goals:
4. To ensure that all land use decisions benefit Rohnert Park residents, and do not create a
disproportionate burden to any resident based on location, income, race, color,
educational status, or national origin. Policies grouped under this goal include the
equitable distribution of public services such as parks, community gardens and public
safety facilities and a focus on avoiding environmental justice impacts of incompatible
land uses (e.g. industrial adjacent to residential land uses). This goal also has a
relationship to the Housing Element with a policy that calls for safe and sanitary housing.
5. To ensure all residents have access to healthy foods, education, green spaces, and
medical services. Healthy food options can be provide through farmers’ markets, which
the City has hosted in the library parking lot for several years. Policies related to the
equitable access to community assets (e.g. natural areas, park, health care facilities) and
the equitable distribution of capital improvements (e.g. roadways, bikeways) are included
under this goal.
Section 4.3 Civic Engagement in the Public Decision-Making Process
This section recognizes that racial, social, and environmental justice efforts must include strong
civic engagement efforts. This section provide a framework for the City to build social capital
through engagement and empowerment of the public, while emphasizing public participation,
transparency, and inclusion. The following goals and policies relate to civic engagement in the
public decision-making process. Many of the implementation programs (Section 4.4) feature
various forms for civic engagement approaches. This section includes one goal:
6. To fully engage the public in City decision-making and facilitate public involvement in
civic life.
This section includes policies and implementation programs to facilitate transparency and
communication between the City government and the citizenry. To facilitate participation,
policies directs the City to schedule events a different days, times and formats to maximize
public participation and to use innovative communication techniques.
NEXT STEPS: The City Council is scheduled to discuss the RSEJ Element on November 9,
2021. Staff is in the process of compiling a complete Public Review Draft of the 2040 General
Plan, which will be available for public review in early 2022.
Planning Manager Approval Date: 10/28/21
Attachments (list in packet assembly order):
1. Draft Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element
Racial, Social, and
Environmental Justice Element
Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021 Page 4-1
4
The City recognizes that it needs to increase its efforts to
ensure that all the members of the Rohnert Park community
(i.e., residents, workers, business owners, local organizations,
and visitors) regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion,
sexual orientation, disability, and socio-economic status feel
valued, safe, respected, included, and secure. Increasing
diversity and inclusion involves enhancing meaningful
community engagement, considering the implications of City
decisions for all members of the community, and exploring new
approaches to meet the changing needs of Rohnert Park.
Generally, areas of Rohnert Park score between the 40th and
60th percentile on State-wide environmental quality and health
assessment tools CalEnviroScreen 3.0 and the California
Healthy Places Index. In other words, the environmental quality
in Rohnert Park is average for the state. This Element includes
goals, policies, and implementation programs that promote environmental justice and support local efforts to
increase public involvement in local governance processes. The themes addressed in this Element lay the
foundation for creating a more equitable and inclusive environment for all residents, businesses, visitors, and
organizations of Rohnert Park.
2019 City Demographics
As of 2019, the median household income in
Rohnert Park was $71,585 and the per capita
income was $34,880. Educational attainment in
the city is relatively high, with 90.9 percent of
residents over the age of 25 having at least a
high school diploma, and of those, 29.3 percent
have a bachelor’s degree or higher. In Rohnert
Park 61.0 percent of residents identifying as
white (alone, not Hispanic or Latino), 26.9
percent as Hispanic or Latino, 6.7 percent
Asian, 3.0 percent as two or more races, 3.8
percent as Black or African American, and 1.3
percent as American Indian and Alaska Native,
Native Hawaiian, and other Pacific Islander.
Attachment 1 to Staff Report
Administrative Draft Policy Document
Page 4-2 Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021
Section Title .........................................................................................................................................Page
Racial and Social Justice .............................................................................................................. 3
Environmental Justice ................................................................................................................... 5
Civic Engagement in the Public Decision-Making Process .......................................................... 7
Implementation Programs ............................................................................................................. 8
4. Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element
Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021 Page 4-3
Racial and Social Justice
This section identifies goals and policies which seek to advance City efforts toward diversity and inclusivity.
Implementation of the programs will allow the City to monitor its progress in achieving racial, social, and
environmental justice. It is the City’s intent to take actionable efforts to establish a more racially and socially
just community. The following goals and policies are intended to promote equality in Rohnert Park.
To support equity, inclusion, and access to opportunities for all community
members, employees, businesses, visitors, and local organizations. (Source:
New Goal)
RSEJ-1.1 Community-Wide Implementation
The City shall work with the Sonoma County Office of Equity to implement shared goals and
policies as appropriate for Rohnert Park. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-1.2 Welcoming City
The City shall promote Rohnert Park as a welcoming, safe, and inclusive community for all
people. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-1.3 Housing Affordability and Access
The City shall encourage access to affordable housing opportunities for all residents. (Source:
New Policy)
RSEJ-1.4 Celebrate City Diversity
The City shall develop and invest in arts, education, and other community programming that
celebrates diversity. (Source: New Policy)
To respect, protect, and promote the civil and human rights of all members of
the community. (Source: New Goal)
RSEJ-2.1 Culturally Proficient Services
The City shall develop and implement citywide strategies, practices, and services that are
culturally proficient and that acknowledge and reflect diversity. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-2.2 Socially Disadvantaged Populations
The City shall develop and implement policies, services, and programs designed to address
the needs of socially disadvantaged and vulnerable community members. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-2.3 Diverse Representation
The City shall ensure diverse representation on all City boards, committees, and commissions.
(Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-2.4 Advancing Racial and Social Equity Work
The City shall encourage appointed City boards, committees, and commissions to advance the
City’s racial and social equity goals, policies, and programs. (Source: New Policy)
Administrative Draft Policy Document
Page 4-4 Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021
RSEJ-2.5 Diverse City Staff
The City shall use equitable and anti-bias hiring procedures that focus on recruiting, hiring, and
retaining a diverse City staff. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-2.6 City Staff Training
The City shall expand training regarding explicit and implicit bias, sensitivity, de-escalation,
LGBTQ+, and racial profiling for all City staff, using the most contemporary and effective
methods available. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-2.7 Enhance Public Safety Collaboration
The City shall strengthen its longstanding commitment to public safety by engaging
community stakeholders and underrepresented minority groups to address enhanced public
safety accountability and community relations. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-2.8 Crisis and Homelessness Response Model
Further the City’s commitment to develop and implement an alternative response model to
enhance crisis intervention and assistance to those experiencing homelessness. (Source: New
Policy)
To broaden income and employment opportunities for all Rohnert Park
residents. (Source: New Goal)
RSEJ-3.1 Financial and Employment Assistance
The City shall work with the County of Sonoma Human Services Department to improve
resident access to and awareness of available financial and employment assistance. (Source:
New Policy)
RSEJ-3.2 Quality Living Wage
The City shall promote access to a quality living wage for all community members. (Source:
New Policy)
RSEJ-3.3 Employment Training
The City shall work with organizations and local non-profits to improve resident access to and
awareness of available employment training resources. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-3.4 Workforce Development
The City shall collaborate with public and private universities, colleges, and technical schools
to support the development, training, and retention of a skilled and diverse workforce. (Source:
New Policy)
4. Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element
Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021 Page 4-5
Environmental Justice
The State enacted Senate Bill 1000 (SB 1000) in 2016 in response to increasing concerns about vulnerable
communities in California that experience disproportionate environmental impacts. SB 1000 requires general
plans adopted after January 1, 2018 to incorporate goals, policies, and objectives related to environmental
justice. Effective environmental justice policies are those that reduce the unique or compounded health risks
in disadvantaged communities by reducing disproportionate exposure to pollutants or other hazards,
promote healthy habits, prioritize necessary infrastructure improvements and programs, and promote civic
engagement in the public decision-making process. The City of Rohnert Park is committed to fostering a
healthy environment for all city residents. The following goals and policies are intended to guide the
advancement of environmental justice in Rohnert Park.
To ensure that all land use decisions benefit Rohnert Park residents, and do
not create a disproportionate burden to any resident based on location,
income, race, color, educational status, or national origin. (Source: New
Goal)
RSEJ-4.1 Equitable Public Services
The City shall equitably provide public services and infrastructure, including parks, recreational
facilities, community gardens, and public safety facilities, to all Rohnert Park residents. (Source:
New Policy)
RSEJ-4.2 Environmental Protection
The City shall carefully consider environmental protection measures to ensure the equitable
treatment of all neighborhoods. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-4.3 Environmental Justice Considerations
The City shall consider potential adverse health and safety impacts associated with land use
decisions and reduce negative impacts on residents from hazardous materials, industrial
activities, facility locations, and design features. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-4.4 New Incompatible Land Uses
The City shall avoid the introduction of new incompatible land uses and consider the potential
impacts of adding uses with environmental hazards into existing residential areas. (Source: New
Policy)
RSEJ-4.5 Placement of New Residential Uses
The City shall consider the potential impacts from neighboring land uses and their impacts,
prior to approving new residential land uses.
RSEJ-4.6 Safe and Sanitary Housing
Through implementation of the Housing Element, the City shall provide standards for
development that promote safe and sanitary housing. (Source: New Policy)
Administrative Draft Policy Document
Page 4-6 Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021
To ensure all residents have access to healthy foods, education, green spaces,
and medical services. (Source: New Goal)
RSEJ-5.1 Healthy Food Providers
The City shall encourage farmers’ markets and healthier food options, particularly near child-
oriented uses. (e.g., schools, day care, parks). (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-5.2 Acceptance of Government-Issued Vouchers
The City shall coordinate with Farmer’s Market vendors and local food retailers to continue to
accept payment through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), which allows residents in the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition
Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to purchase food with their program benefits.
(Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-5.3 Access to Community Assets
The City shall identify and address gaps in access to residential, commercial, recreation
facilities, natural open spaces areas, and physical and mental health resources, to help ensure
that these resources are equitably available to all residents. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-5.4 Equity in Capital Projects
The City shall promote equitable investment in capital improvements citywide. (Source: New
Policy)
4. Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element
Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021 Page 4-7
Civic Engagement in the Public Decision-
Making Process
Racial, social, and environmental justice efforts must be rooted in a strong culture of civic engagement in the
City’s decision-making processes. Studies have shown that well-rounded public engagement processes
increase social capital in projects and promote equitable community development. The City is committed to
goals and policies that build social capital through engagement and empowerment of the public, while
emphasizing public participation, transparency, and inclusion. The purpose of this section is to ensure
residents are informed and empowered related to City decisions that may impact their health and well-
being. The following goals and policies relate to civic engagement in the public decision-making process.
To fully engage the public in City decision-making and facilitate public
involvement in civic life. (Source: New Goal)
RSEJ-6.1 Accessibility to City Events
The City shall schedule City events using different days, times, and formats (i.e., virtual and
digital accessibility) to encourage and facilitate participation among community members with
work, school, and other obligations that conflict with more traditional scheduling. (Source: New
Policy)
RSEJ-6.2 Innovative Communication
The City shall promote and implement new and innovative approaches to facilitate
communication between members of the community and City elected officials and staff
members. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-6.3 Facilitate a Culture of Inclusion
The City shall work with non-profit, faith, education, and other community-based partners to
facilitate a culture of inclusion, empathy, compassion, acceptance, and unity. (Source: New
Policy)
RSEJ-6.4 Transparent Public Decision-Making
The City shall ensure transparent public decision-making processes through effective public
outreach, engagement, and participation that is inclusive of socially disadvantaged individuals
and groups. (Source: New Policy)
RSEJ-6.5 Supportive Collaboration
The City shall continue to collaborate with other organizations and groups to provide services
and programs for all Rohnert Park residents. (Source: New Policy)
Administrative Draft Policy Document
Page 4-8 Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021
Implementation Programs
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2020 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing A Expand Recruitment for City
Employment Opportunities to Attract
Diverse Candidates
The City shall determine effective
recruitment strategies to attract
diverse candidates to City
employment opportunities. The City
shall work with educational
institutions and other entities to
promote city job opportunities with
technical schools and college
students.
RSEJ-2.3
RSEJ-2.4
RSEJ-2.5
City Manager
B Social and Racial Justice Equity
Survey
The City shall conduct an annual
survey which measures the
successfulness of advancing social
equity and diversity City-wide and
report the results of the survey to the
City Council and community.
RSEJ-2.2
RSEJ-2.3
RSEJ-2.4
RSEJ-2.5
RSEJ-2.6
City Manager
C Racial, Social, and Environmental
Justice Outreach
The City shall prepare and use clear
and inclusive outreach materials,
expand media campaigns, and
implement other strategies (i.e.,
translation services) to increase and
advance racial, social, and
environmental justice initiatives.
RSEJ-1.1
RSEJ-2.2
RSEJ-6.1
RSEJ-6.2
RSEJ-6.3
RSEJ-6.4
RSEJ-6.5
RSEJ-6.6
City Manager
4. Racial, Social, and Environmental Justice Element
Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021 Page 4-9
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2020 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing D Career and Job Training
The City shall coordinate with local
organizations and non-profits to
organize an annual career and job fair
with local employers to highlight local
job openings and employment
training opportunities for Rohnert Park
residents.
RSEJ-3.1
RSEJ-3.3
RSEJ-3.4
City Manager
E Public Safety Training
The City shall increase funding to
support non-POST mandated training
for Public Safety staff, such as in
explicit and implicit bias, sensitivity,
de-escalation, LGBTQ+, and racial
profiling.
RSEJ-2.6
RSEJ-3.4
City Manager
Public Safety
F Staff Resiliency and Stewardship
The City shall implement and expand
new and innovative programs to
improve resiliency and mental and
physical health, such as technologies
providing 24/7 access to counseling
services and support of staff
stewardship and mentoring.
RSEJ-3.4
City Manager
Public Safety
G Civilian Police Academy
The City shall continue to facilitate
and expand participation in the
Rohnert Park Civilian Academy to
educate community members on law
enforcement policies, practices, and
problem-solving, as well as promote
the opportunity for one-on-one
interaction with Department members
in a relaxed environment.
RSEJ-2.7
City Manager
Public Safety
Administrative Draft Policy Document
Page 4-10 Administrative Draft Policy Document | October 2021
Programs
Implements
Which
Policy(ies)
Responsible
Supporting
Department(s) 2020 – 2025 2026 – 2030 2031 – 2040 Annual Ongoing H Community Engagement
The City shall prepare and implement
programs that include new and
innovative mechanisms to
communicate and engage members
of the community who are not
typically active in civic issues to foster
stronger relationships with the City
and the Police Department, such as
mobile device surveys, community
meetings, and community
roundtables.
RSEJ-2.7
RSEJ-6.2
City Manager
Public Safety
I Healthy Food Access Regulations
Audit and Update
The City shall conduct an internal
audit of City regulations, including but
not limited to the Zoning Ordinance, to
identify and remove any
administrative barriers to increased
access to healthy foods.
RSEJ-5.1
RSEJ-5.2
RSEJ-5.3
Development
Services
J Capital Improvement Prioritization
The City shall establish a defined set
of criteria that measure and prioritize
equitable distribution of Capital
Improvement Projects (CIP) citywide
and utilize the criteria in all future CIP
Program decisions.
RSEJ-4.4
RSEJ-5.4
Development
Services
Public Works
City Manager