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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/31/2005 B A K E R S F I E L D Sue Benham, Chair David Couch Mike Maggard Staff: John W. Stinson SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE of the City Council - City of Bakersfield Monday, January 31,2005 - 1:00 p.m. City Manager's Conference Room, Suite 201 Second Floor- City Hall, 1501 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA AGENDA 1. ROLL CALL 2. ADOPT DECEMBER 6, 2004 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT 3. PUBLIC STATEMENTS 4. DEFERRED BUSINESS A. Discussion and Committee recommendation on Tree Manual B. Status report and recommendations regarding enforcement of parking lot shade tree ordinance 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Discussion and Committee recommendation regarding downtown development incentives B. Review and Committee recommendations on current Planning and Development Committee items for future agendas C. Discussion and Committee adoption of 2005 meeting schedule 6. COMMITTEE COMMENTS 7. ADJOURNMENT S:~JOHN\Council Committees\05Planning&Development\05Jan31agenda.doc $ DRAFT _~ ~ ~-" David Couch, Chair Staff: John W. Stinson Sue Benham For: Alan Tandy, City Manager Mike Maggard AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Monday, December 6, 2004 -1:00 ~p.m. .~ City Manager's Conference Room 1. ROLL CALL The meeting was called to order at 1:02 p.m. Present: Councilmembers David Couch, Chair; Sue Benham; and Mike Maggard 2. ADOPT OCTOBER 11, 2004 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT Adopted as submitted. 3. PUBLIC STATEMENTS 4. DEFERRED BUSINESS A. Discussion and Committee recommendation regarding Sierra Club response to voluntary plan to mitigate development project non- attainment air quality emissions to zero Planning Director Stan Grady gave an update on staff's progress, which was covered in a memorandum provided at the Committee meeting. In September, Development Services Director Jack Hardisty sent a letter to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (District), addressed to Mr. David Crow, seeking the District's input on the City's proposed zero emissions program. At this date, no response has been received from the District. It is imperative to have the District's participation and input on the -technical aspects of the program, as the District is the responsible agency for air pollution control in the San Joaquin Valley. Also, since the last Committee meeting, the Council worked toward voluntary conditions on a project to address the position of the Sierra Club concerning air quality. Although the voluntary conditions were agreed to by the developer, the Sierra Club found it unacceptable and indicated their intent to take legal 'action against the project. The City's efforts to resolve the issue with the Sierra Club have not been successful. DRAFT AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Monday, December 6, 2004 Page 2 Stan Grady explained in order to keep moving forward towards a solution, staff is recommending the following: Establish a task force comprised of a representative .from the Sierra Club, San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, Building Industry Association, Kern County Planning and City staff. The purpose of the task force would be to develop a zero emissions air quality mitigation program. Public Works Director Raul Rojas express as vehicles are involved, he would like Public Works staff represented on the task force. Committee Member 1Maggard suggested it might be useful to have ~someone 'from CELSOC serve on the task force. He also requested the Planning Director to send him an e-mail on the input/support needed from the District. Committee Chair Couch wanted it noted the Council, the Committee and staff have been working on this issue for quite some time and questioned if forming a task force would have been necessary if the District had responded and given the City criteria to work with. And secondly, if the Sierra Club had been willing to signoff on a City voluntary program to be put in place and agree if a developer would participate in the City'.s program, the Sierra Club would not bring legal action against the project. Gordon Nipp from the Sierra Club made comments and agreed with the need to work toward solutions to clean the air and the sooner the better. Committee Member Benham made a motion to approve staff's recommendations on forming a task force. The Committee unanimously approved the motion. Committee Member Maggard requested staff to send another letter to the Air 'Pollution Control Board requesting their participation. B, Discussion and Committee recommendation regarding appeals of extension of vesting rights Committee Chair Couch reported, as tasked by the Committee, he has met with Public Works staff to review the issues regarding extensions of vesting rights that have been referred to the Committee. As this is a very complicated issue, which he would-like to review further with staff before reporting back to the Committee, he suggested continuing this issue to the next Committee meeting. The Committee unanimously agreed. DRAFT AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE' MEETING Monday, December 6, 2004 Page 3 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Discussion and Committee recommendation regarding enforcement of parking .lot shade tree ordinance Planning Director Stan Grady handed out a-memorandum and gave an overview on the key points of enforcement in the ordinance pertaining to achieving .the 40% shade canopy in commercial parking lots. Dana Karcher from the Tree Foundation of Kern spoke regarding the planting of bushes instead of trees in commercial parking lots and the unnecessary and incorrect pruning of the trees in commercial parking lots as outlined in her letter to Planning Director Stan Grady on November 17th, which was included in the Committee packet. Specifically, Ms. Karcher mentioned planting bushes instead of trees at D~jb. Vu and 900 Truxtun Avenue, and overpruning of.trees at Ralph's Grocery. The Planning Director explained commercial parking lots built before the ordinance was adopted requiring 40% shade canopy within 15 years are not subject to that requirement. However, they are under the ordinance requirements for tree replacement if they should take a tree out. When complaints are received and staff contacts commercial parking lot owners, they are usually very cooperative in efforts to comply. After a project is complete, the City does not. have a process for going out and checking to see if site plans remain in compliance over a longer period of time. This would require a new program and staff. City Attorney Ginny Gennaro explained Section H of the landscape ordinance, referred to in Ms. Karcher's' letter, could be written better. It does not state exactly when the 15 years begin but reads: "fifteen years from a master tree list approved by the planning director." Also, regarding the 40% shade canopy it reads: "requires the landscape plan be drawn to show the tree canopy will have the potential to attain shading over forty percent of the total area of all parking..." and does not 'state it actually requires achievement of the 40% tree canopy. If those two issues are something the Committee and Council are desirous in obtaining and enforcing, the City. Attorney suggested this section should be amended. Committee Member Maggard questioned if there are only a few exceptions or if we are constantly missing the mark. If overall the ordinance is working well most of the time then he expressed he is not so. concerned; however, the Committee will need to find a way for staff to address, the exceptions, if not covered-by the ordinance. DRAFT , AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Mondny, December 8, 2004 pnge 4 Planning Director Stan Grady will report back to the Committee on the following: · Staff will check the three sites: 900 Truxtun, Ralph's Grocery and D~ja Vu and the landscaping plans (shrubs vs. trees) for D~j~ Vu and 900 Truxtun · Identify if there are similar sites or if these are exceptions and not the rule · Review the ordinance as it applieS to businesses that prune trees in parking .lots in a way not in compliance with attaining the 40% shade canopy requirement · Check to see if there is anything in the 'landscaping ordinance that might apply to (old sites) City Attorney Ginny Gennaro will report back to the Committee on the following: · Review what the City's ordinance covers with a bullet comparison list from other cities' ordinances · Review Section H in the Minimum Landscaping Standards ordinance with regard to amending the language The Committee requested Paul Graham, Urban Forester, be notified and attend all-Committee meetings with trees issues on the agenda. Also, when this item is back on the agenda notify Alan Christensen, Jim Eggert, and Paul Graham to attend and bring the list of acceptable trees for planting. 6. COMMITTEE COMMENTS Committee Member Maggard asked about the memorandum regarding PG&E pruning and planting and if 15 gallon-sized trees to be planted under power lines are sufficient. Dana Karcher, Tree Foundation, explained the 15 gallon-size trees root better and grow faster. Staff agreed. 7. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 2:05 p.m. DRAFT AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Monday, December 6, 2004 Page 5 Attendance-staff: City Manager Alan Tandy; City Attorney Ginny Gennaro; Assistant City Manager John Stinson; Planning Director Stan Grady; Public Works Director Raul Rojas; Assistant Public Works Director Jack LaRochelle; and Public Works Civil-Engineer Marian Shaw Attendance-others: Dana Karcher, Executive Director, The Tree Foundation of Kern; Gordon Nipp, Sierra Club; Dave Dmohowski, Project Design Consultants; Brian Todd; BIA of Kern County; Stephan DeBranch, Castle & Cooke; Roger Mclntosh, Mclntosh and' Associates; Dianne Hardisty, Opinion, The Bakersfield Californian; Tammy Brown, KU77; and James Burger, reporter, The Bakersfield Californian cc: Honorable ,Mayor and City Councilmembers S:~JOHN~Counci[ Committees\O4Planning&Development~o&dO4oct 11summary.doc B A K E R S F I E L D Dep rtment of Recreation P rks Date: January 27, 2005 To: Planning and Development Committee From: Alan Christensen, Interim Director of Recreation and Parks Subject: Tree Technical Manual Revision The Tree Technical Manual is an intemal policy and procedure manual that guides staff with regard to maintenance of public trees. It also provides a list of approved tree species for planting in the public right-of-way, and species approved for private commercial projects that will create a proper tree canopy in parking areas. This draft of the manual was reviewed by Dana Karcher of the Tree Foundation of Kern, who met with staff to discuss her concerns. Where possible we incorporated many of the suggestions she provided. This manual is administrative in nature, so approval by the Planning and Development Committee will be sufficient to make it effective. C:\Documents and Settings~achriste\Desktop\tree manual report 1-26-05.doc Paul Graham Page 1 1/27/2005 B A K E R S F I E L D MEMORANDUM Janua~ 27,2005 TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Stanley C. Grady, Development Services Director~ ~ ¢~¢¢_--.-~'Z' SUBJECT: Land Plan Review. At a previous Planning and Development Committee Dana Karcher raised questions regarding landscaping at DeJavu and 900 Truxtun Avenue. DeJavu was a remodel of an existing building and not subject to new landscaping. I visited 900 Truxtun Avenue and saw trees in the parking lot consistent with the approved landscape plan. I did see one species, Photenia, which is a shrub but can be grown as a tree. It is being used as a tree at the site. It is not on the master tree list. A master tree list has not been approved. The list in the back of the City's Tree Technical Manual is being adapted for use and will be handed out with site plan review applications as the approved master tree list called for in the ordinance. P:\Memos\land plan review.doc BAKERSFIELD Economic and Community Development Department MEMORANDUM January 22, 2005 TO: Planning and Development Comm~?y~b7/' FROM: Donna L. Kunz, Economic Development Director SUBJECT: Information for discussion of the council referral concerning better downtown redevelopment planning and ideas on how to provide redevelopment incentives Bakersfield's Recent Downtown Redevelopment Efforts In Bakersfield, efforts focusing on downtown revitalization began with the adoption of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan in 1972. Following that effort, Council adopted the first Redevelopment Element which included the Redevelopment Plan area and an expanded study area. In 1995, the Redevelopment Element was rescinded. However, Downtown zoning was simplified from former complex D-zones, and policies supporting downtown revitalization were transferred to the Land Use Element of the General Plan. Attached is a listing of these policies and guidelines. Other Downtown Revitalization Elements and Efforts In 1999, the Community embarked on a Greater Bakersfield Vision 2020 effort. Over 13,000 citizens participated in the assessment and visioning process that dealt with various areas of community planning. One area discussed at length was a future vision of Downtown. Designated as the "Heart" of Bakersfield in the process, the downtown vision called for three goals as follows: 1. Encourage mix use of development to include housing, retail and commercial. (Develop incentives to encourage infill and redevelopment) 2. Develop a "River Street" to become a center for community activities and outdoor entertainment and recreation use. 3. Encourage the Charrette process to develop design concepts and translate these concepts into a plan. From the Vision 2020 Community Plan, several Vision Force Committees have been established that are responsible for ongoing monitoring and reporting of the various goals and objectives outlined in Vision 2020. The most recent minutes of this committee are attached. S:\Bakersfield RDA\Plan&Devl .doc I In May 2001, the Planning Department conducted the first ever Downtown Planning Charrette. The three day Charrette engaged approximately 1:35 stakeholders, policy makers, investors and downtown users to identify key redevelopment opportunities, examine transportation issues and identify recreational resources. Under the guidance of Vision 2020 and more specifically taking the concepts from the 2001 planning Charrette, several City sponsored redevelopment initiatives are either underway or have recently been completed. These include: Public Assisted Completed Public Projects: Construction of a 30,000 square foot commercial building near Central Park for the Housing Authority. Development of 80 units of affordable senior housing on "R" street near Central Park by Golden Empire Housing and Redevelopment Agency. Project for Public Spaces - CDBG funded Wall Street Alley Demonstration Project for public alley improvements Recreation Amenities - Public financed and development of a new Downtown Aquatics Center and Ice Sports Center. Development of 180-unit Urban Senior Housing project located on California Ave. at "M" Street. Financed by CVE Development and the Redevelopment Agency. Construction of new 30,000 square foot mixed use building located at 900 Truxtun housing City offices, private offices and a restaurant. Private financing, partly secured by City office space lease. Demolition of an underutilized blighted building at 505 Truxtun and development of a new Visitor and Convention Center. City financial assistance and public land swap. o:o Public Art Demonstrations - Private and grant funded public art examples demonstrated at various private and public centers. Several projects completed in conjunction with the Kern County Art Foundation, private benefactors, corporate sponsors, and recent redevelopment funded. A continued effort to include public art in all redevelopment sponsored projects is ongoing. Baker Street -Completion of 4 blocks of streetscape improvements, an additional 7 blocks will be completed in FY 05/06 with additional federal grant funding. S:\Bakersfield RDA\Plan&Devl .doc 2 Public Assisted Redevelopment Projects Underway: *:o The Parkview "Cottages" - Design and development of a 74 planned unit development single family detached home neighborhood, illustrating the "walkable" neighborhood concepts located at 21st and "R" Streets (under construction and will be completed within 18 months and sold out in phases of 15-20 units). Redevelopment Land Contribution and City downpayment program available for qualified homebuyers. Design plans are underway for a 40,000 square foot commercial, retail and restaurant village, 16 screen theater and flanked on the east and west side by urban style high rise market rate and affordable townhome style apartments located between California Avenue, "M" Street, the Kern Island Canal and the railroad tracks. (Most financing has been secured, currently negotiating development agreements.) .:. Concept plans for a future "River Street"- a Mill Creek concept that includes improvement of the Kern Island Canal from Golden State Avenue to California Avenue, into an urban stream with recreational amenities to include passive and active recreational uses and to incorporate commercial, housing, retail and restaurant amenities along the creek walk (long term project 7-10 years - Estimated cost $10 million, EDCD is seeking grants and possible redevelopment financing). Design and construction funding to be secured from KernCOG and redevelopment funds for the expansion of the Chester Avenue median and streetscape improvements to Garces Circle (underway - finalizing the possible grant funding resources with construction to be completed by 2007. This requires 88% KernCOG funds and 12% redevelopment funds). Private Activity: Important to every downtown redevelopment effort is the private activity interest that is sparked from the public activity such as the projects detailed above. Several sizeable private activity projects are currently under planning or actual construction and include: Development of a $100 million Medical Campus on Chester Avenue including development of a new medical office facility on Chester and 17th (currently under construction). o;o 24th and M street - development of a mixed use 40,000 square commercial center to include medical and dental offices, restaurants, banking center and retail. .;. Recent sale of vacant lot on 18th near Kern Island Canal to Santa Barbara developers planning condominiums and retail mixed use project. S:\Bakersfield RDA\Plan&Devl .doc 3 Recent sale of vacant lot near 18th and "R" streets to local developer planning townhome and loft development. Development of an additional 60 units of senior housing planned adjacent to Park Place Senior Apartments on "R" Street by the Housing Authority. Two sites on 17th Street near "N" street under consideration for the location of future federal court and federal offices. Padre Hotel - Currently under rehabilitation, plan Calls for boutique hotel, condominium and retail street level tenants. Providing Redevelopment Incentives: Redevelopment incentives for downtown development have previously been structured in several ways using a tool chest of proven redevelopment programs and on occasion, its condemnation authority. The list of public financed or assisted projects identified above are excellent examples of redevelopment incentives used to jumpstart projects. The most common format for redevelopment assistance includes: assistance in land assembly through condemnation and/or land cost write down, direct financial assistance to write down the cost of the development construction to overcome negative economic investment factors, provision of density bonus allowances and more relaxed parking regulatory requirements and installation of public improvements and infrastructure. Staff has also used other redevelopment programs and tools such as fac,,ade enhancement matching grants - in which the Redevelopment Agency provided funds that are privately matched for installation of sidewalk level awnings over businesses and the City has utilized streetscape assessment districts and CDBG funds for upfront capital costs to provide trash bins, benches and landscaped areas that are maintained through the formation of assessment districts. These programs could be explored again if redevelopment funds are secured for this purpose. In addition, the exploration of some additional sites for pocket park green space and the further development of public green space located at the VCB center at the 515 Truxtun Avenue could also be explored. Again, a financing plan would need to be examined. In January 2002, California State Legislature enacted SB975, a bill that essentially expanded the requirement of State prevailing wages to be paid on any redevelopment projects receiving financial assistance in any format except for affordable housing development financed through the affordable housing fund. Although this legislative action has not cancelled the ability t~ provide incentives, it has significantly increased the cost of doing so. The Downtown Redevelopment Project area has a remaining useful life until the year 2024. Under the current redevelopment laws, the project area may issue debt until 2014 and use its current condemnation powers until 2010. Condemnation authority may be extended an additional 12 years until the effective life of the Redevelopment S:\Bakersfield RDA\Plan&Devl .doc 4 Plan ends - varies by original and amended areas from 2012 - 2019. This process can be achieved through a public hearing, appropriate blight findings and adoption of an ordinance. These factors are two key items that are needed to structure redevelopment incentives and successfully implement redevelopment projects downtown. An analysis of expected Downtown Redevelopment Project Area revenues through the remaining life of the project area between the years 2022-2029 indicate that approximately $13 million dollars of net increment will be generated after satisfying the' existing $1,200,000 annual payment for 'the Certificate Of Participation obligation for Centennial Garden until 2021. New debt may be issued in the Downtown Project Area until 2014 and tax increment may be collected until 2022-2029 in the various amended areas. The project area was amended three times in 1974, 1976, and 1979 which added area and its debt and revenue time limits were extended in 2004. The attached Summary Sheet provides all of the Downtown Redevelopment Project Area statistics discussed above. Planning and Zoning The city's zoning codes have been amended to facilitate desirable mixed use development in the downtown areas as follows: · The development review process was streamlined to encourage projects back into the downtown. · The CoB (Central Business) zone was created to allow retail uses on the first floor and high density residential above in the core area. .o The C-C (Commercial Center) zone was applied liberally around the core area to encourage mixed commercial/residential uses. · Incentives were provided to encourage open space, public art, sculptured building tops and overhead protection for pedestrians. · The zoning ordinance provides for relaxed parking requirements in the downtown area. Attachments: Downtown Zoning Map Downtown Landuse Map Downtown Redevelopment Map General Plan Downtown Elements list Downtown'Project Area Revenue Summary Downtown Project Area Information Summary Vision 2020 Downtown January 24, 2005 minutes Planning in Downtown from Jack Hardisty S:\Bakersfield RDA\Plan&Devl .doc 5 DOWNTOWN AREA STUDY MAP- ZONING ~ ' Color Map to be provided by staff ~.. at meeting. DOWNTOWN AREA STUDY MAP- LANDUSE ~ IT1 IE~F~~ -- I-~-] be provided by staff __ ~ ~[~ -- at meeting. .... -~ .. ~~~ .. ~~U~/ ' -- ~ " ~'~ ~ ' . ~ ~1~ I~1 ---- II ~1 ~ ; -- I .... II .... I1~1tll I~ GENERAL PLAN POLICIES IN SUPPORT OF DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 1. (LU-4) Encourage maintenance of the residential character of specially identified neighborhoods through such mechanisms as architectural design, landscape, and property setbacks. (A, D, E) 2. (LU-5) Provide for streetscape improvements, landscape, and signage which uniquely identify major and/or historic residential neighborhoods. (E) 3. (LU-6) Retain existing residential neighborhoods as designated on the Land Use Plan, and allow for the infill of residential land uses which are compatible with the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood. (A) 4. (LU-7) Provide for the retention of historic residential neighborhoods as identified in the Historical Resources Element if adopted by the City of Bakersfield. (A, C, E) 5. (LU-63) Encourage the use of creative and distinctive signage which establishes a distinctive image for the planning area and identifies principal entries to the metropolitan area, unique districts, neighborhoods and locations. (A, C) 6. (LU-64) Permit the use of well-designed banners for civic events, holidays, and other special occasions. (A, C) I' 7. (LU-73) Promote the creation of both residential and commercial historic districts, and encourage the upgrading of historic structures. (A, C, E) 8. (LU-74) Encourage the establishment of design programs which may include signage, street furniture, landscape, lighting, pavement treatments, public art, and architectural design. (A, C, E) 9. (LU-89) Encourage new uses and buildings in pedestrian sensitive areas to incorporate design characteristics which include: ( A, C, E) a) Walls which are aesthetically treated by the use of color, materials, offset planes, columns, and/or other architectural details, to provide visual interest to pedestrians; GP Policies in Support of Downtown Revitalization November 20, 2002 Page 2 b) Landscaping, including trees, flowering shrubs, and ground cover; c) Pedestrian amenities, 'such as benches, trash receptacles and signage oriented to the pedestrian; d) Design amenities related to the street level such as awnings, arcades, and paseos; e) Visual access to the interior of buildings; f) Uses other than parking and traffic circulation between the sidewalk and building. 10. (CON/AQ-18) EncoUrage walking for short distance trips through the creation of pedestrian friendly sidewalks and street crossings. (N) 11. (CON/AQ-22) Require the provision of secure, convenient bike storage racks at shopping centers, office buildings, and other places of employment in ... the City of Bakersfield. (N) 12. (CON/AQ-23) Encourage the provision of shower and locker facilities by employers, for employees who bicycle or jog to work. (N) 13. (LU-69) Allow variation in the use of street trees, shrubs, lighting, and other details to give streets better visual continuity and increased shade canopy. (A, C, E) 14. (PAR-31) Establish a program of design and improvement review, landscape development, and maintenance of parks, city and county building grounds and public works projects, with quality standards established commensurate with intended function and relative impact on surrounding area. (O) II. LOCATIONAL 1. (LU-22) Locate major (regional) commercial uses in proximity to existing regional centers (such as Valley Plaza and East Hills Mall), and in proximity to future regional serving commercial centers in the downtown, southwest, northwest, and northeast, as designated on the Land Use Policy Map. (A) GP Policies in Support of Downtown Revitalization November 20, 2002 Page 3 2. (LU-39) Enhance existing and establish new centers as the principal focus of development and activity in the planning area, around whiCh other land uses are grouped. Centers should be linked by adequate transportation facilities and may be linked to the Kern River, canals, or other resource amenities. Centers may be differentiated by functional activity, density/intensity, and physical character.' (A ,B, C) 3. (LU-40) Provide for the enhancement ~nd intensification of existing activity areas such as: (A) ' a) Downtown b) California State University, Bakersfield c) Bakersfield Airpark/Casa Loma d) Meadows Field e) Highway 58/Weedpatch Highway 4. (LU-41) Provide for the intensification of downtown Bakersfield for governmental, financial, professional office, retail, residential, cultural, specialty, and supporting uses. (A) 5. (LU-42) Provide for the revitalization of downtown Bakersfield by the use of redevelopment authorities provided by California law, including the provision of incentives for new private development projects, joint private-public partnerships, and public improvements; accommodating the range of land uses defined for this "Center". (A, C ,D ,E) 6. (LU-43) Encourage renovation and the adaptive reuse of significant cultural and entertainment facilities downtown. (D) 7. (LU-49) Encourage development of pedestrian sensitive uses and design characteristics in the following areas; (A) a) Downtown b) Baker Street c) Southwest Center d) Northwest Center e) Northeast Center 8. (LU-83) Provide for the use of redevelopment authorities in other locations of the metropolitan area which California Redevelopment law has determined as blighted. (D) ... GP Policies in Support of.Downtown Revitalization November 20, 2002 Page 4 9. (CIR/ST-38) Exempt the downtown Bakersfield redevelopment area and small infill projects from the Level of Service Ordinance to facilitate infill project and downtown redevelopment and in recognition of the higher traffic levels inherent to a vital central core. (H) III. GENERAL 1. (LU-82) Preserve existing significant sound residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial areas. (A, B, C) 2. (LU-84) Provide incentives to upgrade deteriorating residential, commercial and industrial uses when the property owner or resident cannot afford improvements. (D) 3. (LU-85) Encourage the revitalization of deteriorated land uses and buildings. (E, F) 4. (LU-88) Encourage the recycling of dilapidated and economically-depressed residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial areas, where preservation is not an achievable or desirable objective. (D, E) 5. (LU-9) Permit the conversion of existing single-family neighborhoods to higher densities in those areas in which (1) there are physical and economic conditions which warrant the replacement of existing units, (2) the uses are contiguous with other higher density uses, and (3) adequate infrastructure services are available and/or provided for by developers. (A) IV. INFILL 1. (LU-19) Allow for the intensification and development of existing commercial areas in an infill fashion. (A) 2. (LU-23) Promote the recycling of block-long corridors of commercial uses so as to consolidate new commercial uses. (A, B,-C) '3. (LU-25) Provide for infill of commercial land uses to be compatible with the scale and character of existing commercial districts and corridors. (A) 4. (LU-33) Encourage the efficient use of existing industrial land uses through consolidation of building and storage facilities. (A, D, E) GP Policies in Support of Downtown Revitalization November 20, 2002 Page 5 5. (LU-78) Accommodate new projects which are infill or expansion of existing urban development. (A) 6. (LU-86) Encourage infill of vacant parcels. (C) CITY OF BAKERSFIELD DOWNTOWN BAKERSFIELD REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT OBLIGATIONS (t) Tof~! T~x Rev~me I~tntl~r. me~ Det~ Net (2) City Relmb. AB 1290 Tax Revenue Remaining OPA (4) No. FI,cai Year Tax In~ment CO~s Pasl ~ml ' E~F Relm~n~ T. I~ ~A ~ 92-2 ~A ~ ~ ~A ~ ~-I ~A ~ ~ ~ ~ ~A ~ ~I T~ I~m~t LimX R~. To Date 3 ~ 1,474,1~ I,~,~ 2t,I~ ~8.1~ ~,~ ;0.~ 4.~ ' 4 2~7 1,5~7,~ 1.2~,~ 32.247 8,1~ 2~,~ 4.~ 5 2~7-~ 1,~2,~ 1,~,~ 43.~ 8,1~ 310,~ 4.~ 3.~ 6 2~ 1,~,497 1,2~,~ ~,~ 8,1~ ~.9~7 4.~ 3.~ 7 2~10 1.~5,~ 1.~,~ 67.~5 5.970 ~2,~7 2~ 3.~ 8 ~f~11 1,~,g22 1,~,~ ~,~ 3,7~ 42~,~ 3.~ 9 20H-12 1.7~.~ 1,~,~ ~.774 ~2.~ 10 2012-13 1.~7,2~ 1,2~.~ t~.~ ~;.~ S2 ~S~S5 S.eSS.e~ S.2~,~ S~.~ 570.~ 13 ~1~16 1,972,~2 1.~.~ 171.975 ~.~ 14 ~1~17 2,~I,118 1,~,~ 1~.~5 ~.~ 15 2017-18 2,~1,~ 1,2~.~ 227,~ ~.~2 16 2018-19 2,1~,~ 1.~,~ 2~.572 ~.~ 17 201~20 2,217.376 1,2~,~ ~.~ ~,8~ ~8 ~21 2.2~.2~ 1,2~.~ 317.2~ 7~.~ lg 2021-22 2,~1,102 1,~.~ ~9.015 ~,~7 21 202~24 (3) 2,4~.018 415.~ 2.0~.~ (1) Obttgetiofls shown above are based on informetion i~'ovi(ted by Agancy staff in the slxtr~g of 20Or. (2) Net Tax Inoremant from TaUe 1. (3) The last day to re~elve tax incremant ls shown as 2023-24. Actualsunsetdatesforlhevmtoussubamasrangefmm 2022 for the o~lglnat p(xtlan to 2029 for the 1979 ame~ed ama. The Ag~ codd o.lyextand the dates by lOyears Il'the area qualified for an SB 2t 1 amendment. The SB 211 amendment would require an imme<f~e 50~ kx:rease in the Agency's I~ .~-axtde. (4) Payments of up to $30.0000 am due from July 3~, 2004 to July 31, 2011. Amounts due an July 31 are as.,.,.,.,.,.,.,.,.,sume<l to be funded ~:xn prlor year reve~ues. (5) OPA RA00-1 terminated due to tax exempt status of educational facility DHA Consulting S.~aetr.~,~ RDAt~ ~ 5~21 l~Tr. mmit a~ · Downtown Bakersfield Redevelopment Plan - is a broad based document which sets forth the blighted conditions in the redevelopment project area and the mechanisms available to the Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency to alleviate those conditions. · Downtown Bakersfield Redevelopment Plan adoption - August 14, 1972, amended November 25, 1974, August 30, 1976, and December 12, 1979, pursuant to City of Bakersfield Ordinance No. 2033. · Total proiect area covers 225 acres. · Legal Authority - the Redevelopment Plan for the Downtown Bakersfield Redevelopment Project Area was prepared* by the City of BakerSfield's RedeveloPment' *Agency in accordance with the California Community Redevelopment Law, Califomia Health and Safety Code Sections 33000, et seq. Eminent Domain Authority- Ordinance # 3877 extended the deadline to exercise eminent domain authority in the Downtown Area through 2010. · Effectiveness.of the Redevelopment Plan - The Downtown Bakersfield Redevel~opment Plan was adopted in 1972 and amended in 1974, 1976, and 1979. Each amendment added territory to the project area. Accordingly, the dates by which all activity must cease are August 14, 2012, in the original project area and November 25, 2019, August 30, 2016, and December 12, 2019, for activities in the area added by amendments to the plan. · Housin¢~ Set-aside- (SB 21'1) amendment effective January, 2004 increased the housing set-aside requirement from 20% to 30%. 30% of all taxes allocated to the Agency are set aside and used by the Agency for the purposes of increasing and improving the City's supply of housing for persons and families of Iow- or moderate-income and very Iow-income households. · Passthrouqhs - (SB 211) amendment effective January, 2004, created statutory pass-through payments to other taxing authorities. For these pass-throughs, the new base year is 2004. · Debt/Bonds. the Agency is authorized to issue bonds or any other debt instrument if appropriate and feasible in an amount sufficient to finance all or any part of the project. The last day the Agency can incur new debt is January 1, 2014. SB 211 amendment extended the deadline for the Downtown Project Area to incur new debt from January, 2004 to January, 2014. · Financing limitations, the total outstanding principal of any bonds so issued and repayable from tax increment from the project area shall not exceed $459 million at any one time. The dates by which redevelopment debt must be paid are August 14, 2022, for debts associated with activities in the original project area and November 25, 2024, August 30, 2026, and December 12, 2029, for debts associated with activities in the areas added by amendments to the plan. · Amendments. November 25, 1974, Ordinance No. 2216; August 30, 1976, Ordinance No. 2291; December 12, 1979, Ordinance No. 2259. Janua~,2005 MINUTES DOWNTOWN VISION FORCE Bakersfield Museum of Art - January 24, 2005 Present: Bernie Herman, Co-Chair; Sheryl Barbich; John Falgetter; David Milazzo; John Stinson Bernie Herman called the meeting to order at 12:15 p.m. Sheryl Barbich reported that Vision 2020 Steering Committee is drafting another update to the plan and is asking each Vision Force to provide an update that entails the following: 1. The most important accomplishments to-date. 2. The most important current strategies. 3. Other strategies that should be a priority which were not originally in the plan. The group discussed these issues in light of the last update which was completed in July 2003. Accomplishments: Ao Planning · The Charrette processes were completed for downtown (May 2000) and Old Town Bakersfield/Baker Street (July 2003). B. Streets & Landscape · A landscape ordinance was approved (8/01) to increase the amount of shade coverage from 30% to 40% in parking lots. · Wall Street Alley was completed. · The $2 million streetscape on Baker Street has completed of the first four of eleven blocks. · The streetscape for North Chester is completed. The next phase along Chester Avenue will be impacted by the $60 million construction project at San Joaquin Community Hospital, including medical office buildings and a hospital addition. C. Commercial 1. New · A new 40,000 square foot Aquatics Center and Ice Rink were opened (5/04). · A new Visitor's & Convention Bureau was constructed (7/03). · 160 senior housing units on California Avenue and M Streets will be completed in 2005. · A new commercial three-story building at 900 Truxtun Ave. was completed. · A new Housing Authority building was completed. 2. Rehabilitation · The Assistance League is renovating the former EDD building on Q Street. Construction of a 7000 square foot theater project on California at the site of the previous Assistance League facility will be developed. · The Padre Hotel continues rehabilitation into apartments and retail shops. 3. Housing · An 80-unit senior housing project on R Street was completed (11/04). · Thc construction of 75 cottages north of the Bakersfield Museum of Art is expected to be completed by October, 2005. Strategies: · Continue to encourage mixed use development that includes a diverse mixture of housing retail and commercial uses. · The Mill Creek project (from-Golden State freeway to California Avenue) is awaiting $3 million in federal grants. New Priorities: · A federal courthouse project is in the bidding process with the federal government. Two downtown sites are being considered along with a third site. Next Meeting: The next meeting is scheduled for April 18, 2005 at the Bakersfield Museum of Ar~. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 1:30 p..m. 2 u'ne 2002 ...... ~ '" SUBJECT:· PLANNING IN DOWNTOWN COUncil Referral No,Ref000082 ..: CHAPTER OF THE DOWNTOWN ELEMENT IN THE GENERAL PLAN TO FocUS ON". Planning efforts fOcUsing On' downtown revitalization began with the creation and adoption of a Downtown Redevelopment Plan in 1972. Following that effort, in 1984 the City Council adopted the first Redevelopment Element which included the "' Redevelopment Plan Area and an expanded study area. In 1995 the Redevelopment Element was rescinded. Downtown zoning was simplified from its complex D-zones, and policies supporting downtown revitalization were transferred to the Land Use Element of the general plan. The 1995 general plan amendment rescinding the redevelopment element made a finding that the amendment would... "strengthen and clarify overall development goals and policies for the downtown area, and will thereby encourage enhanced development opportunities for the downtown core area of Bakersfield." The Redevelopment Element was an optional element not required by the government code. During budget presentations in May, in response to a question from Councilmember Benham, it was estimated that a new element could be prepared at a cost of $50,000.00. The estimate would cover the costs of environmental review and any special services needed from a consultant specializing in redevelopment law. If a new element is to be developed it should be done separate from and after the current general plan update because all work necessanj to commence public review has been completed. Pursuit of any optional element should give consideration to the following: 1. What are the development related issues unique to downtown that need to be addressed through a separate element rather than provided for in one'of the '. .... '-'required elements such as land use~circulation or housing?.~ .... : .- :-~ ..-~:-.~ ~,,',.~.~,~ ~ ~,.~:~.,,-, --~;. ,--~..~ ~.:, ,~-.. ~-~,~,. ,¥~.~',,~:;~? :i,;;~.,.-, ~.~,,, ;,~;~;~.;~,. ~.~ .. ;: ~.~,~:~ ;;~ii'~'. ,~-%'~ 2. ' '-.' ~hat will be ~e goal of a new r~evelopment elemen~, ,....-~'. .... '.. ':- "" For i;efe~ence'l ha~/e'attaChedchapter 7 from'the State General Plan Guidelines.: ....... This will provide additional background material on optional general plan A~achment - ' CC: Rhonda Smiley, ~i~ Administrator~ublic Relations P:~Refe~e~2.~ Chmpter 7: Optlonsl Elements CHAPTER 7 Optional Elements All statutory rqferenc~ are to the California Government Code un/ess otherwL~'e noted INTRODUCTION pollution controls on business. For these reasons, cities and counties should strive to reduce emissions for the STATE LAW offers considerable flexibility to go health and welfare of their own residents, as well' as beyond the mandatory elements. Section 65303 those of other communities in their region and the state enables a county or city to adopt ."any other as a whole. elements or address any other subjects, which, in the Local jurisdictions have responsibility for land use judgment of the legislative body, relate to the physical planning, and can also significantly affect the design, development of the county or city." Once adopted, an development, and management of development and optional element carries the same legal weight as any of local circulation systems. Local governments have an the seven mandated elements. At the same time, it must opportunity to address air quality issues through general be consistent with the other elements, as required by plans, development ordinances, local circulation sys- §65300.5. rems, transportation services, and other plans and pro- Localities have adopted all kinds of optional cie- grams. No other level of government has such responsi- ments on topics ranging from aesthetics to water re- bility, including air districts. · sources. The flexibility of content and format offered by The general plan, as the foundation for all local the Government Code allows cities and counties to planning and development, can be an important tool for fashion elements which uniquely address subjects of implementing policies and programs beneficial to air particular concern to them. The following section offers quality. Currently, approximately 66 cities and counties some advice on several of the most common and useful in California have adopted air quality elements. Com- optional elements: Air quality, capital improvements/ munities may choose to adopt a separate air quality public facilities, community design, economic develop- element, or to integrate air quality-beneficial objectives, ment, and parks and recreation. Of course, these are only policies, and strategies in other elements of the plan, suggestions: the actual scope and level of detail con- such as the land use, circulation, conservation, and tainedinthe element is lefitothecityorcountytodecide, community design elements. Whichever method is se- lected, consistency between elements and policies within the plan is essential for successful implementation. In AIR QUALITY addition, cooperation between localities is important, since air pollution does not respect political boundaries. Introduction Chronic exposure to air pollutants is a serious health Relevant Issues risk to millions o f California residents, particularly the Motor vehicles are a major source of carbon monox- young, thc elderly, and people with heart disease and ide, fine particulates, and pollutants that combine to respiratory problems. Safeguarding public health has form ground-level ozone in the state's metropolitan been the primary focus of fedcral and state air quality areas. The dispersed growth patterns prevalent in many legislation and activities for many years. Air pollution metropolitan areas of California have resulted in longer also impacts local' economics by damaging agricultural travel distances and increased the need for reliance on crops, natural vegetation, buildings, and other exposed motor vehicles. Land use and transportation planning materials. And, it can impair visibility and obscure and development patterns over thc last 50 years have views. In addition, thc economic health of an areacan be generally emphasized the use of thc automobile. Other adversely affected if insufficient air quality improve- less-polluting alternative modes oftranspoflation, such meat trigger3 more stringent federally-mandated air as walking, bicycling, and public Iransit, have not been General Plan Guidelines 163 Chlpter 7: Op~m~ Elements Research has shown that certain land use and trans- CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT/PUBLIC portation strategies can lead to a fewer per-household FACILITIES motor vehicle emissions from driving. These strategies include: Introduction · Concentrated activity centers, including downtowns, Numerous cities and counties accentuate the impor- with mixed commercial, office, and residential land tance of planning for capital improvements and public uses that can serve as focal points for transit and facilitiesbyadoptingaseparatecapitalimprovementsor encourage pedestrian activity: public facilities element. Capital improvements such as · Consolidated growth patterns, such as infill develop- roads, drainage facilities, sewer and water lines, treat- mentwithinexistingurbanareas, higher-densityhous- ment plants, and transit lines are the framework that lng within walking distance of transit stations, and supports development. Their availability plays an im- clustered employment centers that enable alternative portant part in determining the pattern of land uses travel modes; within the community, as well as the direction and · Mixed land uses that bring destinations closer and intensity of growth. Public facilities such as police and make walking, bicycling, and transit use feasible and fire stations, city or county offices, libraries, and parks more attractive; are important to residents' safety as well as their quality · Interconnected street networks that provide numer- of life. The practical ability to provide these facilities is ous routes for autos, pedestrians, and bicyclists rather important to the well-being of the community. than focusing traffic onto fewer major arterials; Capital improvements and public facilities are sub- . Pedestrian and bicycle pathways that provide attrac- jects that are listed under the land use and circulation rive and safe alternatives to driving; and elements in §65302. In addition, §65401 requires that · Transit service that provides convenient alternatives proposed public works projects be reviewed annually to single-occupant automobile travel, especially in for conformity with the general plan. Further, §65402 / . congested metropohtan areas, prohibits acquisition or disposal ofpublic property with- out a finding of conformity with the plan from the Several air districts have developed guidelines that planning commission. suggest a number of strategies that jurisdictions may A capital improvements/public facilities element consider. Some of these include land use and transpor- provides the policy basis which will guide shorter-te.rm tation-re!ated strategies, such as those listed above, that documents such as the capital improvements program can help reduce the need for reliance on vehicles. Juris- and annual capital budget. The element therefore offers dictions are encouraged tocontact their air districts for generalized, long-term policies grounded in realistic additional suggestions and information, analyses of existing capacity, future demand, and fi- The staffat the California Air Resources Board has nancing options. If facilities and services are to be created a computer program called Urbemis (Urban provided to existing and future development in an ertl- Emissions Model), which can be used to estimate emis- cient and cost-effective way, then the element must sions associated with land use development projects in discuss the location of future facilities and improve- California. Urbemis 7G is the updated version of this merits, acceptable levels of service, funding priorities, program and is more visually oriented and user-friendly, and the timing of availability It uses vehicle emissions model, Emfac 7G, to calculate Public facilities can also be important community motor vehicle emissions. For more information on these design features. Although seldom done, it makes sense programs, please see the Bibliography under Air Qual- to incorporate general community design principles into ity. the element. Community design attempts to create inter- esting and attractive spaces which invoke positive expe- Reference: See the Bibliogr~aphy under Air Quality for riences for those who live, work, or play there'. The useful reference books, configuration, location, and orientation to their sur- roundings of public buildings, such as libraries, city halls, community centers, and schools, can define public space, create community focal points, foster neighbor- hood integrity, and generally help establish community identity. The capital improvements and public facilities element should encourage public structures and facili- General Plan Guidelines 165 Chapter 7: Optional Elements drainage facilities public utilities (CI) Consultation/coordination veith other service providers flood control structures (LU, OS, S) and public utilities ° Analyze, in correlation with the land use element, · Contact other service providers and public utilities projected demand for infrastructure and facilities regarding service capacities, planned expansions,fi- · Inventory the condition ofexisting infrastructure and nancing, and other common interests analyze the estimated need for maintenance and im- provement, to meet projected demand. Ideas for Development Policies , These suggestions are intended to stimulate ideas; General distribution, location, and extent of exixting they are not an exclusive list ofpossible policies. a nd proposed public facilitiex · Inventory existing: water distribution and treatment · Identify the locations of existing and proposed majo,' facilities roads and interchanges (map) (Ci) police and fire stations, · Identify the locations ofexisting and proposed major parks water transmission and sewer collection lines, as well libraries as treatment facilities (map) (LU) community centers · Identify the locations of existing and general Ioca- city hall/county courthouse tions of proposed police and fire protection facilities schools and their service area boundaries (map) (kU) other public buildings and grounds. · Identify the locations of existing and proposed corn- · Analyze~ in correlation with thc land use element, munity facilities such as libraries, community CCh- projected demand for public facilities ters, auditoriums, and city hall/county courthouse · Inventory the condition of existing facilities and (map)(LU) analyze the estimated need for maintenance and ira- · Specify the location, acquisition, development, and proverncnt to meet projected demand management of public parks and recreational areas, · Consider cornrnunity design standards, where appli- including level of service standards (LU) cable · Identify the location of schools and school facilities, coordinated with thc plans of local school districtls} Plans of other entities providing.public se,'vices o,' (,nap) (LU) facilities · Specify the relationship between the distribution of · Collect and review capital improvement and other land uses and the local capital improvements pro- plans of cities/counties, public utilities, water suppli- gram, including the timing and siting of capital ira- ers, special districts (including fire protection, flood provements (LU) protection, wastewater treatment, and school dis- · Specifylevelofservicestandardsforspecifictypesof triers), and other entities which may provide sen, ices infrastructure and of facilities to guide the timing and · ' Review the Regional Transportation Improvement siting of future capital improvements Program · Recognize and coordinate with the plans and pro- grams of other cities/counties, public utilities, public Scheduleortimetableforimprovements, expansion, and water systems (urban water management plan and replacement of facilities capital improvement program or plan), special dis- . Identify needs of existing facilities triers (including fire protection, flood protection, and · Estimate demand for new facilities wastewater treatment, as relevant), and other entities · Review capital improvements programs, including which may provide services those of other affected agencies · Coordinate with the plans and programs of other public agencies which fund public improvements. .'qm~rces O/7/}mdingfi: inq.'ovcmc,~ts, t'xpc:,zsi~ m. retire- such as the Regional Transportatio, n Planning Agency merit, andmaintenance (Regioual 'i'ransporlation Plan and Regional Trans- · Estimate costs of needed improvements, expansion, portation Improvement f'rogram} and maintenance · Provide for the development, maintenance, and siting · Identify viable sources of funding, correlated with ofexisting and projected public facilities, including pace of improvement buildings and infrastructure G~neral PLan Gutdettnes Chapter 7: Optional Elements Ideas For Data And Analysis · Historic Preservation: Identify historic and architec- Thc following list of ideas for data and analysis turallysignificantbuildingsandevaluatetheircondi_ expands upon tile relevant issues to provide some broad tion. Inventory those structures or landmarks which .topics for consideration. Topics may be added or re- have been or should be designated as historic re- moved depending upon relevance and consistency with sources and establish policies for their preservation, the issues pertinent to thc planning area. protection, and maintenance. · Street Design: Analyze the relationships between · Transition Areas: identify areas in transition. These existing streets and the areas and uses which they may include commercial or industrial areas which use serve. Streets are not only used for transportalion but, is declining or has been abandoned. Consider imple- when thoughtfully designed, also establish bound- mentingzoning and land usedesignationstoallow for aries, provide focal relief, and contribute to the liv- adaptive reuse. Analyze the possible causes of the ability and safety ofthe community. loss of vitality. · Public Art: Identify existing public art, its location, · Commercial and Industrial Sites: Analyze criteria and the public's reaction to its ability to enhance the for measuring compatibility between proposed de- community. Classify types of art and the suitable velopmentand existing land uses. Formulate flexible locations for its display. Public art may provide a development standards which promote solutions to focal point or social aspect to parks, public facilities, common problems {i.e. unused parking, parking as and structures enhancing the aesthetic environment. dominate features, noise, incompatible us~s etc.). · Signage: Inventory signs which are unique and m- · New Residential Development: Residential design flective of the community. Size, shapes, and designs concepts should be developed and features of the should be identified which are considered to be char- undeveloped land identified which will provide con- acteristic ofthespecific areas orcommercialdistricts. tinuity with and connections to tile existing neighbor- For example, commercial strips may be characterized hoods and other areas of new development, by neon signs whereas the downtown core may be · Landmarl~': Identify public places, buildings and synonymous with natural colors and wooden signs. open-spaces (including landmark trees) which distin- guish the planning area and give it a sense-of-place, ideas for Developtnent Policies Encourage the placement of art within areas used for 'File following list of broad development policies is public gatherings. Consider the usc of area history intended to provide general guidance in the develop- and cultural background as defining factors for public ment ofmore specific policies oriented to the particular art and displays, issues facing local jurisdictions. Many of these policies · SpatialDefinition: Identify community features which should be correlated with the land use and circulation define space (i.e., building mass, landscaping, streets, elements to ensure that decisions incorporate commu- walls, etc.). Identify those community spaces which nity design principals. are "attractive" (i.e., small shopping districts, parks, landscaping, etc.). Analyze how the good features · Define the urban extent of thc community. Identify may be duplicated through design requirements, transitional spaces between the urban limits and the · ContinuiO, and Connection: Identify existing fca- edge ofthe planning area {.LU,OS) lures (i.e. creeks, trails, bike paths, streets) which · Encouragecommunitybasedrehabilitationandneigh- provide continuity and connection throughout the borhood improvements, particularly in transition ar- planning area. Identify neighborhood or community eas attributes which can be strengthened to establish · Promote neighborhood cohesiveness through neigh- connections to the entire planning area. borhood-based design guidelines consistent with ex- ' Lan&cape and Trees: Analyze street landscaping isling or proposed architectural themes, considering and trees as well as the in~bnnal planting and types of spatial definition, continuity, and building scale. landscaping on private residential and com~ncrcial · Pursue loan programs specific to thc rehabilitation of lots for visual relief and shade effectiveness. Land- existing neighborhoods scaping and trees provide energy conservation ben- · Foster new development which is consistent with the efits as well as a sense of quality, distinctiveness, type, intensity, character and scale of the area spatial definition, and focal breaks to otherwise mo- · Encourage the development' of pedestrian friendly notorious streetscapes, neighborhoods and communities. General Ptan Guidelines 169 Chtpter 7: Optlomd Elements Relevant Issues acteristics and demographics will provide insight into The contents of an economic/fiscal element may the development of a successful strategy. vary widely between local jurisdictions as there are no mandated content requirements for optional elements. Land Use Thc issues may include any which are locally or region- · Land Use Inventory and Analysis: The type, location ally relevant, however, the element must take into ac- and intensity of land uses designated by the general count those issues identified in the other elements, plan and the ability to support existing and proposed uses consistent with the economic development strat- · BusinessRetentionandDevelopmentbySector: lden- egy. tification of the needs, limitations and alternatives to· Infrastructure Analysis: The capacity of existing and existing businesses. Identification of potential im- . planned infrastructure to accommodate growth (this provements and strategies which would encourage directly affects the viability of economic develop- business retention, merit). The ability of the systems to support existing · Employment Development: Areas of employment demand and the plans for future increases in capacity growth, shortages, and needs. · and extensions must be based upon accurate and up- . Business Recruitment: Relevant issues conceming to-date information. the types, number, and success of existing and poten- tial recruitment strategies. Identification of those Financing businesses which would be compatible with the ob- · Capital Improvement Financing: Identify the viabil- jectives of the general plan and consistent with the ity, estimated costs and potential funding sources for carrying capacity of the land and infrastructure, each project prior to its gubmission for approval. · Fiscal Stability: Includes existing and potential rev-Identify effective programs for the replacement of enue resources, costs of services and facilities and structures and equipment. economic forecasts. · Fee Studies: Conduct comprehensive fee studies to · Budgetao, Structure: Existingoutlaystodepartments, identify the relative amount of recovery for the set- services and comparable revenue recoupment mecha- vice provided as compared with other jurisdictions. nisms and levels. Comparison of facility and services Prepare long-term comprehensive fee structures and versus efficiency of providing the programs, proposed changes, consistent with Proposition 218 of 1996. Ideas for Data and Analysis Fiscal Analysis Background Analysis · Fiscal Stability: Identify programs that will maintain' · l-tistorical Perspective ofthe Local Economy: lden- a diverse .and stable revenue system. Evaluate the tify the major developments and trends in the local viability of revenue sources to identify those which economy over time to provide a basis for future enhance or limit tax burdens to residents and busi- growth, nesses. - Current Economic Conditions: Identify economic · ltistodcal and Projected General Fund Trends: lden- trends by sector to identi fy strengths, weaknesses and ti fy past, current and future general, fund revenue opportunities. Use this information to formulate poll- sources to plan for effective asset management and cies and objectives for the retention and attraction of revenue collection. Provide for the cost effective business and employment, supply of services and recovery of costs. · Projected Economic Conditions:' Identify growing · Balanced Budget: Identify current and prospective · sectors of the economy to facilitate and plan for future sources of revenue to establish funding programs in development. Inventory weak sectors to plan for anticipation of future capital outlays. Identify the change or allocation of Iow interest funding or other steps necessary to maintain a balanced budget to assistance for viable enterprises, ensure that future obligations can be met by adding to · EmploymentCharacteristics/Demographics:Aneco- reserves. Evaluate services to identify cost cutting nomic development strategy must be based upon the measures and efficient delivery systems. x internal capacity ofthe population to provide labor in different stages and sectors of the economy. An Economic Development and lmplementation analysis ofexisti~/g and predicted employment char- · Economic Objectives: Identify the objectives for the C~nertl Plau Guidelines Chapter 7: Optional Elements ........................................................... ~ .......................... ~ ............................. 7'-'. ..................................................... : ........................................... Agency Resources: counties to require thc dedication o fparks and recreation land, or tile payment of in-lieu fees, as a condition of ('al!fornia l'rade and Commerce Agency tentative subdivision map approval. 'll~c Quimby Act Online: www.commcrcc.ca.gov can only be invoked when the city or county "has 801 K Street, Suite 1600, Sacramento, CA 95814 adopted a general plan...containing policies and slan- t916) 322-1394 dards for parks and recreation facilities." A parks and · Office of Economic Development (916)322-8730 · recreation element can be used to meet this requirement. California Main Street Program- revitalization of Keep in mind that these exactions are limited to the older downtowns (916)322-3536 impacts caused by new residential development, and they must bear a reasonable relationship to tile usc ofthe .California Employment Development Department park and recreational facilities by tile future inhabitants Online: www.cdd.cahwnct.gov/cddhomc.html of thc area (§66477(c)). 800 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814 Parks and recreation facilities provide a variety of (916) 653-0707 benefits. Urban parks can offer a soothing contrast to high-density office, commercial, and residential places. California Department of Housing and Community Parks can provide active (i.e., baseball, basketball, sac- Development cer, horseback riding, etc.) and passive (i.e., picnicking, 1800 Third Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 fishing, bird watching, open-space, etc.) recreational (916) 445-4782 activities for a neighborhood, city, or region. Parks can preserve areas of beauty or historical significance. They California Department 9fb'inance can house facilities such as nature centers, zoos, and Online: x~vw.dof, ca.gov/ historical displays which educate residcqts about natural 915 L Street, Sacramento CA 95814, t916) 322-2263 Other Resources: , Santa Clara County's 1995-2010 General i Plan dedicates Chapters G (countywide level) Ca/(/'ornia A.¥sociation b'or Local t:'conomic ~! and N (rural unincorporated areas) to parks and Development : recreation strategies, policies, and implementa- 1010 F Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, C/\ 9581'-1 :; lion measures. As a county. Santa Clara takes a (916) 448-8252 regional (as opposed to a neighborhood) On-line: wx~,.caled.org approach that focuses on regional parks and open-space, trails, and scenic highways. The In.~titute ~/' Urban and Regional Development. County has long worked toward the goal of University of California. Berl~elev creating a "necklace of parks" encompassing 316 Wurster Hall #1870, Berkeley Ca 94720-1870 important hillsides, environmentally sensitive lands, bay lands, and stream corridors, linked by (510)642-4574 a system of multi-use lrails. To that end, its On-linc: wv,~.ced.bcrkeley.edu/iurd/index.hmd strategies, policies, and implementation mea- sures address development standards, accessi- bility, the balance between recreational and PARKS AND RECREATION environmental objectives, inter-jurisdictional cooperation relative to planning, acquisition, and Introduction operalion (with the cities and Midpeninsula Public parks, and tile passive and active recrealioq Open-Space District), involvement of the private oppodunitics they provide, are importam conlrihutors lo and non-profit sectors in acquisition and opera- a communily's quality of life. Ahout one-third of the lion, the planned trail nelwork, and the designa- cihcs and 40 percent of thc counties ill California have hen of scenic highways and protection of scenic corridors. The General Plan pragmatically adopled a parks and rccrcallon clemem, according to recognizes thai projects such as linear parks OPR's 1996 local government planning survey. This and trail systems can take years to complete number illustrates the importance placed upon parks and and involve give and take among agencies, the rccrcation facilities by local jurisdictions, public, and landowners. Thc Quimby A~:t (§66477) authorizes cities and General Plan Guldellne~ Chapter 7: Optional Elements Reviewexistinglanduse.vforpotentialsite.~andlanduse · Establish policies for thc dedication ofpublic parks plans,for compatible sites and policies, including: and recreational areas (or payment of in-lieu fees) in · General plan land usc, conservation, and open-spacc conjunction with new subdivisions, including stan- designations dards for tile amount and the type or quality of park · Relative accessibility (circulation/transportation land required consistent with thc Quimby Act. (LU) plans) · Establish a policy framework for trails plan:i, balanc- · 'l'be general location and availability of school dis- lng trail needs With environmental and landowner trier properlies for joint use as parks or recreation concerns (CI) facilities · Establish policies for Ibc use of utility co~xid0rs, · Natural resource areas (i.e., habitat, natural land and reclaimed solid waste facilities, abandoned railroad water areas, floodplains, groundwater recharge areas, rights of way, etc. for parks and trails etc.) amenable to recreational open-space (i.e., pas- · Establish general acquisition criteria/priorities for sive recreational)use natural resources, historical resources, habitat, and · Park and recreation facility policies, standards, and watershed lands principles · Establish principles for preserving natural resources, historical resources, habitat, and watershed lands ldent~v feasible sources of fi~nding for improvements, within parks. (OS) expansion, and maintenance · Preserve visually and environmentally significant · governmental funding {i.e., general obligation bonds, open-spaces (OS) special tax, impact fees) · Provide for joint use of school properties as neighbor- · non-profit organization funding hood parks/recreation centers (LU) · private sector funding · Coordinate planning aad standards with other agen: cies such as cities, counties, regional parks ciistricts. Ideas for Development Policies open-space districts, state parks, and national parks Here are some very general ideas for development and forests policies. These arc intended to stimulate discussion; · Establish policies to grade parks and recreational clearly, actual policies would bc more focused, facilities funding, identifying preferable funding sources and general spending priorities · Identify thc locations of existing and future public · Encourage involvcment by the non-profit and privat¢ parks and recreational areas. (LU} (map) sectors in acquisition, maintenance, and programs · Establish standards for park acreage, by type of park · Establish neighborhood, community, and regional (acres/1000 residents) park planning committees for consultation and input · Establish standards for providing active and passive regarding park policy recreational facilities · Establish policies requ,ring linkages between past · Describe a range ofpark types (i.e.. regional, areawide, and future development projects through a network or' neighborhood, pocket, etc.) to serve in specified parks, open-space, and bike/walking paths. situations and establish principles (i.e., access, ser- vice area, timing, parking, etc.) to guide the location References: See tile Bibliography under Parks and of each type (LU). Recreation for references on this topic. · Establish policies for park and recreation facility accessibility consistent with thc Americans with Dis- abilities Act. General Plan Guideline~ 175 City of.Bakersfield Planning and Development Committee Current Items- 1/28/05 1. Minimum Park Size & Park Credits for Gated Communities - Referred by Couch 2. Zoning Process - Biq Box Centers- Referred by Couch 3. Shellabarqer Road Referred by Couch 4. Additional review of issues related to the GPA/EIR Referred by Couch, Benham & Maggard 5. Landscape Ordinance Enforcement- Referred by Benham 6. Air Quality Miti.qation Fees- Referred by Benham 7. Program EIR - Referred by Maggard 8. Establishment of.Memorial Grove- Referred by Maggard 9. Hearinqs re. Tracts 6086~ 6087 & 6104 - Vesting Rights- Referred by Council 10. Enforcement of parking lot shade tree ordinance - Referred by Benham 11..Leaf Blowers - Referred ~by Hanson 12. Commercial and Industrial Development (wall height & standards) - Referred by Couch 13. City Space Needs - Referred by Couch 14. Future operation of Bakersfield Airport. Referred by Maggard 15. CNG Fleet Vehicles - Referred by Maggard 16. Commercial Development - Overniqht Parking and Camping in Lots - Referred by Maggard 17. NortheaSt Bluffs- Referred by Maggard 18. Hi,qhway 99 - Scenic Corridor - Referred by Benham 19. Landscape Plans- Coordination between Parks and Public Works - Referred by Couch 20. Pedestrian Trails & Pocket Parks - Referred by Benham 21. Noise Ordinance Amendment - Referred by Benham 22. Request from North Bakersfield Recreation and Park District to chanqe zonin.q of parks within the district from OS (Open Space) to RE (Recreation). - Referred by Council 23. Zoninq Ordinance Review re. R-2 Amenities - Referred by Maggard 24. 1/2 Cent Sales Tax for Transportation - Referred by Maggard 25. DowntoWn Development Incentives- Referred by Benham 26. Bakerfield Growth Indicators - Referred by Benham PLANNING ANE) OEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE :2005 MEETING SCHEDULE ~ P~anning & Development Committee Meetings ~ 1:00 C~ty Counc~ Meetings ~ 5:15 p.m. ~ Budget Meetings & Presentations Continued at 6:30 p.m. Monday% ~ Noon, Wednesday's CC~ 5:15pm Hearing on 6/8, Adoption on 6/22 Hog,days ~ C~ty Ha~ C~osed Joint C~ty/County Meeting JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER Draft ~ January 25~ 2005