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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 ADVISORY BODY HANDBOOK�iG ♦n , S rf ►�, f� / � d cltV o' SAII LUIS oFPispo pr:cpA>>c0 r,V the off w1c, of the c;1tV clerk f c1:12UAQV 3, 1995 AbVISORY, goat' hAnbBook Prepared by the Office of the City Clerk Adopted by Resolution No. 8759 on February 3, 1998 I 1 1 n 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 tasLE of contents lntuoauction............. ...._............................... ........................................... ..................... i 1. how city coveunment wouks.......................................................................2 A. City Charter..............................................................................................................2 B. City Council.............................................................................................................2 C. Role of Council Liaison Members...........................................................................2 D. Role of City Staff Persons........................................................................................2 E. Council -Appointed Officers.....................................................................................3 F. Operational Departments.........................................................................................3 Im. aavlsouy Boaies..............................................:..............................................................5; A. Background..............................................................................................................5 B. Policies...............................................................................................•.....................5 1. Communications..........................................................................................5 2. Absences, Leaves of Absence, and Resignations........................................6 3. Bylaws and Procedures................................................................................7 4. Functional Review.......................................................................................7 C. Membership Qualification & Appointment Process................................................8 D. Term of Office.........................................................................................................9 E. Ethics and Conflict of Interest...............................................................................10 F. Removal from Office.............................................................................................10 G. Awards and Recognition........................................................................................10 tv. peumanent commmees.............................................................................. . _....11 Architectural Review Commission....................................................................................1 l Cultural Heritage Committee.............................................................................................13 Human Relations Commission..........................................................................................15 Parks and Recreation Commission....................................................................................17 PersonnelBoard.................................................................................................................18 PlanningCommission........................................................................................................19 Promotional Coordinating Committee...............................................................................21 v. -technical ana special puupose committees .................. ................ :.:............... 22 Bicycle Advisory Committee.............................................................................................23 Boardof Appeals..............................................................................................................23 JackHouse Committee......................................................................................................24 Joint Recreational Use of School District Property Committee........................................25 Mass Transportation Committee........................................................................................25 Business Improvement Association Advisory Board........................................................26 HousingAuthority.............................................................................................................27 TreeCommittee.................................................................................................................28 !VL the Biuown act............................................................................................................29 Summaryof Advisory Bodies............................................................................................30 ii I 1 , antw6uct,on 1 Welcome to San Luis Obispo City Government! 1 Thank you for your interest in serving on one of our citizen advisory bodies, and congratulations for volunteering your time and skills to help us improve our community. 1 Serving on one of the City commissions, committees, or boards can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. - These advisory bodies are charged with formulating new ideas, information 1 gathering, receiving public testimony and comments, analyzing complex issues, and making recommendations on specific projects and broad policy — all toward helping the City Council make better -informed decisions. ■ As you may realize, it isn't always easy. Issues are often more complex than anticipated, public 1 opinion can be sharply divided, questions may overlap, and sometimes the province of one body may also be the territory of another. 1 This handbook serves a twofold purpose: (1) To give interested persons an understanding of why the City's advisory bodies have been established and how they function within the overall governmental framework and, (2) to summarize the role and charge of each body. 1 This is a basic handbook, designed to explain: 1 • What each advisory body is trying to accomplish; • How one advisory body relates to others; 1 • Procedures for effectively conducting business • Each advisory body's place in the overall system of City government; and • The responsibilities. of an advisory body member. 1 We hope this information will answer many of your questions, get you off to a good start, and contribute to your satisfaction in serving the citizens of the City of San Luis Obispo. 1 ». how city coveRnment woRks IA. CITY CHARTER The basic framework for San Luis Obispo's municipal government is the City Charter, originally adopted in 1876. The Council of a chartered city is given more legislative flexibility and authority than a general law city. Council and the citizens of San Luis Obispo may vote to amend theif Charter. ;B. CITY COUNCIL The City Charter provides for an elected, five -member City Council as the governing body of the City. Four Council Members serve staggered four-year terms (two are elected every two years). The fifth member is the Mayor who is elected for a two-year term. City Council elections are held in November of even numbered years. Regular Council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each month in the Council Chamber at City Hall. In addition, special meetings and study sessions are held from time to time as the need arises. The Council has the power to make and enforce all laws and regulations relating to municipal affairs, subject to the limitations of the City Charter, the United States and California Constitutions, and certain state statutes. Final decisions on city taxes and fees, budgets, city policy, and general plan and land use. issues, policies, and matters are made by the City Council. C. ROLE OF COUNCIL LIAISON MEMBERS The Council Liaison Subcommittee, comprised of two Council Members, is designed to: • Facilitate communication between the Council and the advisory body; • Increase the Council's familiarity with the membership, programs and issues of the advisory body; • Interview applicants and make recommendations for appointments to the full Council; and • From time to time, attend commission meetings for observation purposes only. D. ROLE OF CITY STAFF PERSONS Staff support and assistance may be provided or made available, but advisory bodies do not have supervisory authority over city employees. While they may work closely with advisory bodies, staff members remain responsible to their immediate supervisors and ultimately to the CAO and Council. The advisory body members are responsible for the functions of the advisory body and the chairperson is responsible for committee compliance with the policies outlined in this handbook. t Staff support includes preparation of a summary agenda subject to approval by the Chairperson, and preparation of agenda reports providing a brief background of the issue, a list of alteratives, recommendations and appropriate backup material, as necessary. Advisory body members should have ' sufficient information to reach decisions based upon a clear explanation of the issues involved. The assigned staff person serves as Secretary, insuring that minutes are taken as needed ' It is important that recommendations the advisory bodies wish to communicate to the City Council are made through adopted or approved Council agenda procedures. Staff members shall assist the advising body chair to insure appropriate legal review or city and state legislation is complied with. ' E. COUNCIL -APPOINTED OFFICERS I 1 1 City Administrative Officer - The City Charter requires the Council to appoint an executive to run the City's day -today operations. The City Administrative Officer (CAO) is directly responsible to the Council for all City activities. The operational departments, through their directors, are responsible to the CAO. The City Administrator also oversees Economic Development, the Natural Resources Program, and special projects. City Attorney -The City Attorney provides legal services and advice to the Council, the CAO, departmental staff, advisory bodies and other city agencies or officials. The City Attorney represents the City in court, prepares ordinances and other legal documents, and prosecutes cases involving violations of city laws. The City Attorney is appointed by, and is directly responsible to, the Council. F. OPERATIONAL DEPARTMEN'T'S City Clerk - The City Clerk prepares Council agendas and records the minutes, conducts city elections, maintains city records, administers the advisory body appointment process, codification of ordinances, claims against the city, legal publications, posting, and advertising, administers oaths, and serves as secretary to the Council. ' Finance - The Finance Director/City Treasurer is the City's fiscal agent who collects money, pays bills, controls assets and financial operations, supervises cash management, provides centralized accounting, and provides the framework for financial planning. The Finance Department does the ' billing and collection of charges for water, sewer and garbage, administers business licenses, and the transient -occupancy tax levied on hotel/motel room rentals. The Finance Director/City Treasurer is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO, with Council confirmation of the Treasurer designation. Personnel - The Personnel Department conducts a comprehensive personnel management program to attract and retain competent city employees. The Director is responsible for recruiting, testing, classifying, evaluating and training employees, evaluating employee salaries, administering the City's personnel rules and affirmative action program, and directing the City's risk management program. The Personnel Director is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO. Community Development - The Community Development Department has two divisions, both under the direction of the Community Development Director who is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO. 3 The Planning Division of this department is responsible for: (1) Drafting the City's general plan and its various elements, (2) Developing programs and ordinances (such as Zoning Regulations) which implement: general plan policies, and (3) Reviewing development projects. The Building and Safety Division administers state and local building codes and is responsible for ensuring safe and sound public and private construction, enforcing zoning requirements and providing neighborhood services. Its staff issues building permits, checks building plans, and inspects code -regulated work at construction sites, and coordinates neighborhood services and code enforcement. Public Works - The Public Works Department consists of Administration, Transit, Parking, Streets, Buildings and Parks Maintenance, Geodata Services, and the Engineering Division, all under the direction of the Public Works Director who is appointed by, and responsible to, the CAO. Utilities - The Utilities Department is responsible for securing adequate water supplies and providing safe and aesthetically pleasing drinking water in accordance with State Health Services requirements through the operation and maintenance of the city's water supply, treatment and distribution systems. The Utilities Department also provides full wastewater services, to meet.state and federal requirements, through the operation and maintenance of the city's wastewater collection and water reclamation facilities. An Industrial Pretreatment program ensures that no hazardous materials are discharged to the city's wastewater collection system. Solid waste services, provided under franchise by San Luis Garbage Company, are also monitored and managed by the Utilities Department. The Utilities Director is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO. Parks & Recreation - The Parks & Recreation Department plans and manages recreational activities at city parks and recreational facilities. The department goal is a diverse program of leisure activities. With the assistance of the Parks and Recreation Commission, the department plans the development of parks and recreational facilities and actively seeks state and federal grants to help pay for park projects, consistent with the Parks and Recreation Element of the General Plan. The department is headed by the Parks & Recreation Director who is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO. Police - In addition to the traditional activities of enforcing traffic and other laws, helping citizens in all types of situations, and investigating crimes, the Police Department promotes community safety. It conducts crime -prevention programs and is responsible for various other programs such as school -safety patrols. This department is under the direction of the Chief of Police who is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO. Fire - The Fire Department does more than fight fires. Its basic purpose is to protect people and property, not just from fire, but also from floods, earthquakes, and other disasters. It promotes public safety by educating the public about fire hazards, by inspecting commercial, industrial and public buildings, and by inspecting private property for weeds and debris that could be a fire hazard or public nuisance. Fire personnel also respond to medical emergencies. This department is under the direction of the Fire Chief who is appointed by, and is responsible to, the CAO. 4 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 In* abvisolzy BONES A. BACKGROUND The Council encourages active citizen participation in the business of city government. Advisory committees and commissions provide an opportunity for interested residents to participate in the governing of their community under guidelines and procedures established by the Council. Advisory bodies can improve the quality of city government by providing the council with resources to make better -informed decisions. Because of the nature of various advisory bodies, they can serve as the "eyes and ears" of the Council for issues and matters that otherwise might not receive the attention they deserved. Other benefits of committees and commissions include improvement in the lines of communication between the public and the Council, greater opportunities for discussion of public issues, and more citizen involvement in city government. There is considerable variety in the purpose or charge of these bodies. Some are required by 1 State law or the Charter and directed to guide certain city activities such as planning or personnel. The authority of an advisory body will depend upon its specific purpose. Some have been 1 oelegated specific authority to approve or deny projects. For example, the Architectural Review Commission is empowered to make final decisions on sign permits and some building projects; the 1 Planning Commission makes recommendations on certain types of land -use applications and makes final decisions on other matters such as use permits and certain variances. Generally, decisions made by an advisory body may be appealed to the Council. 1 Generally, advisory bodies are empowered only to make recommendations to the Council or to the city staff, unless specifically authorized by law or Council to do otherwise. There should be a two- way communication, so commissions are aware of the long-term goals the Council has adopted, and the advisory body is able to present new ideas to the Council. The Council may not always accept the recommendation of an advisory body because of additional information available or a need to balance ' the recommendation with policy or community priorities. Commission members are encouraged to attend Council meetings. I B. POLICIES 1. Communications a. Annual Report - Each advisory body is required by the Charter to submit to the ' Council by May Is' an annual report describing its activities and evaluating its progress for the year (Charter, Article XII, Section 1205). To provide more timely information to the Council, most Committees submit reports at the Mayor/Advisory Body Chairs ' Quarterly Meetings throughout the year, thereby fulfilling the Charter requirement. ' b. Written Reports - Advisory bodies are occasionally requested to make special reports or recommendations to the Council on specific subjects. The Council will make this request in writing, with specific direction as to the approach, scope, and schedule for the '5 study desired. 'These recommendations often play a major role in assisting the Council to reach a final decision on important -issues. Any recommendation or report from an advisory body is required to be in written form. If the matter is to appear on the Council agenda, the report must be submitted to the City Clerk no later than two weeks prior to the Council meeting at which the report is to be considered. This report becomes part of the record and is forwarded to each Council Member for review in advance of public consideration. Some advisory bodies may receive study. or action requests from citizens or groups. These requests should also be presented in writing to the advisory body which will then determine if the committee wishes to pursue that particular issue. The committee shall advise the Council of the request and.the body's determination for action. c. Minutes - To keep current on advisory body activities, minutes of all advisory body meetings shall be forwarded to the Council in a timely manner. d. Goals/Budget.- Each advisory body shall prepare proposed major City Goals and Objectives in February, in a manner established by the CAO. The advisory body chairperson will be responsible for speaking to this proposal when the Council conducts its goal setting in study session. The CAO will notify the chairperson of time and place of such Council review. More detailed budget proposals will be made through advisory body staff, consistent with the budget schedule and process. e. Statements - An advisory body does not have authority to speak for the city. If the body wishes to recommend that a statement be made, such as a letter written to state a position, it shall be submitted to and receive approval of the Council. L Public Forums and Surveys - An advisory body shall not sponsor or co-sponsor a public forum, meeting or survey without the prior approval of the Council. g. Personal Testimony - If a member of an advisory body appears before the council (or another advisory body) in a capacity other than as representative of his/her body; it should be explained in advance that any statements made are not to be construed as representing the opinions or recommendations of the advisory body. h. Changes - Changes in a member's address or telephone number, and the names of new officers, shall be submitted to the City Clerk as soon as possible. L Ouarterly Meetings - The Mayor shall meet quarterly with the chairpersons of all commissions. The purpose shall be for information updates and to encourage communication. Quarterly written reports shall be submitted at this meeting. The chairperson shall report back to the full committee at the next regular meeting. 2. Absences, Leaves of Absence, and Resignations a. Attendance If an advisory body member fails, for any reason, to attend three consecutive regular meetings or a total of six regular meetings within any twelve-month 1 period, that member shall automatically be considered for replacement. The chairperson of the advisory body shall inform the Council of such a situation, explaining any special circumstances. b. Absences - There shall be no "excused" absences. Because of quorum requirements, when an absence is anticipated, the individual advisory body member is responsible for notifying the chairperson or the secretary in advance and the absence shall be counted in .that member's attendance record. c. Leaves of Absence - Leaves of absence are not granted to advisory body members except under very unusual circumstances and when authorized in advance by the Council. d. Resignation - In the event a member finds it necessary to resign from an advisory body, a letter of resignation shall be immediately directed to the Council through the City Clerk, with a copy forwarded to the chairperson of the advisory body. 3. Bylaws and Procedures a. Bylaws - Each advisory body shall present bylaws to the Council for approval, which bylaws shall set forth procedures, purpose, specific functions, meetings, officers, budget, etc. (Charter, Article XII, Section 1204.) By May ? of each odd -numbered year, the bylaws of each advisory body shall be reviewed by that body. Any proposed changes shall be submitted to the Council for approval. If no changes are proposed, a report of the review shall be submitted. ' b. Code of Ethics -Each body shall be governed by the City's adopted Code of Ethics (Res. 8313). 1 1 c. Parliamentary Procedures - All advisory body meetings shall be conducted in accordance with City practices, policies and Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised. Questions should be directed to the appropriate city. staff. A quorum of the Committee shall be asstated in individually adopted advisory body bylaws or procedures. d. Meetings & Events - Each advisory body may hold an annual dinner meeting for installation of new members and recognition of outgoing members. All regular meetings shall be held at the established time and place set for that body, unless a change is approved by Council. Council may hold an event from time to time to recognize advisory body members. (See also Page 10, Section G.) 4. Functional Review a. Election - When possible, in April, each advisory body, at its regular meeting, shall elect a chairperson and a vice chairperson. b. Terms of Office - The term of office of a chairperson or vice chairperson shall be one year, commencing upon election. No person shall serve in the office of chairperson or 7 vice chairperson for more than two consecutive terms except as may be noted elsewhere under specific boards and commissions. .Completion of a partial tern of office as chairperson.or vice chairperson shallnot precludean advisory body member from serving two additional consecutive full terms, provided that the partial tern served is less than one year. The City of San Luis Obispo encourages participation of a wide variety of its citizens through service on an advisory body. Unless specified, there ' is no special education, training or background required for appointment: The following minimum criteria shall be met by any person wishing to be considered for appointment to an advisory body: • Applicant must be a resident and registered voter of the city at the time, and during the entire term of appointment unless excepted by state law or .special circumstances.. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age at the time of appointment. Basic elements of the appointment process are as follows: 1. Each person seeking appointment or reappointment to an advisory body shall obtain and file an application in the Office of the City Clerk. Application may be made for a vacancy which currently exists or which may occur in the future. 2. Applicant shall have read and become familiar with the contents of this handbook, and should have attended at least one meeting of the advisory body prior to interviewing with the Council Liaison Subcommittee. 3. Applications for appointment or reappointment will be reviewed by the Council Liaison Subcommittee (CLS). Selected qualified applicants shall be interviewed by the CLS consisting of two Council Members. The Chair of the advisory body is will be invited to participate in the interviews. The CLS will independently make the final nominee selection. If the Chair is unable to participate or is being considered for reappointment, the CLS may designate another representative to attend. The CLS shall submit to the entire Council recommendations for appointment. If a unanimous decision by the Subcommittee for.recommendation to the full Council cannot be reached, the Council shall take a separate motion for each candidate proposed by each member of the CLS. 4. Applicants not appointed will be so advised and their applications held for no less than one year for consideration in the event of a future vacancy. 5. As a general policy, an applicant shall not be appointed to serve on more than one advisory body except that a member may also serve on one technical or special-purpose committee at the same time. If appointed to another advisory body, he/she must immediately resign from one body upon being appointed to another. 8 ' 6. Council Liaison Subcommittee Appointments: Liaisons to advisory bodies are selected annually by the full Council - usually in December. The Mayor and Vice Mayor shall submit recommendations to the full Council and rotate nominations for Council t Member Subcommittees to provide an opportunity for each member to serve as a liaison at least once on each advisory body when possible. When terns of office do not allow each member to serve once, members with greatest seniority shall have first right of ' selection. Automatic rotation for the technical and regional committees is not always followed, allowing Council Members to develop a higher level of expertise for some of the more complex committees, as well as continuity where appropriate. ' 'D. TERM OF OFFICE The term of office for each appointee to an advisory body shall be from one year to a maximum of four years. The length of a term is dictated by the principle that no more than two terms on any committee will expire each year. This rule ensures continuity for all committees. Annual appointments commence on April 1'. appointments to unexpired terms begin the day the appointment is made by the Council. No appointee shall serve on the same advisory body for more than two consecutive, full terms (eight years), but may subsequently serve on another advisory body unless noted otherwise. Exceptions include: the Housing Authority, Jack House Committee and Tree Committee. ' A mid-term appointment to a vacant seat on an advisory body shall not preclude the appointee from serving two additional consecutive full terms, provided that the initial, partial term served is less ' than one year. 1 G. AWARDS AND RECOGNITION When a member terminates service on an advisory body, the Council will recognize that member's contribution to the City through an appropriate expression of appreciation. If that advisory body wishes to make its own presentation to an outgoing member, the chairperson shall communicate with the City Clerk in order to avoid duplication of awards. (See also Page 7, Section 3d.) , E. ETHICS AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST 1. The duties of an advisory body member shall be performed in good faith and in a ' manner which the member believes to be in the best interest of the City. 2. It is improper for any member of an advisory body to utilize, for personal pecuniary , gain or in an otherwise self-dealing manner, any information which is received by reasons of said membership and is not a matter of public record. ' 3. No member of an advisory body shall have a material financial interest in any contract or other transaction involving that advisory body. The member shall promptly disclose ' such interest in any proposed activity of the advisory body and shall not participate in any related deliberations or actions of that body, nor vote on the matter. ' 4. All members of the Planning Commission, Architectural Review Commission and Housing Authority are required to file Statements of Economic Interest (Form 700) under the Political Reform Act of 1974 as amended. The City Clerk will ' supply such forms and their completion and timely submittal. 5. If any advisory body or member has a concern with a Council action or policy, the ' Chairperson or member of the committee shall discuss the issue with a Council Member before making a public statement. , 6. Questions regarding possible ethical issues or conflicts of interest should be reviewed with the Chairperson, City Attorney, or the City Clerk, as appropriate under the circumstances, in advance of the subject meeting or discussion. ' T. REMOVAL FROM OFFICE ' Members of advisory bodies serve at the pleasure of the Council and may be removed without cause by Council action in an open public meeting. t G. AWARDS AND RECOGNITION When a member terminates service on an advisory body, the Council will recognize that member's contribution to the City through an appropriate expression of appreciation. If that advisory body wishes to make its own presentation to an outgoing member, the chairperson shall communicate with the City Clerk in order to avoid duplication of awards. (See also Page 7, Section 3d.) i i 1 1 1 rv, peRmanent committees PURPOSE The City of San Luis Obispo has a number of unique characteristics, including ideal climate, spectacular natural vistas and an outstanding man-made environment that has evolved from historic traditions of the community. The Architectural Review Commission has a vital role in the preservation and enhancement of the beauty and visual character of the City. STATUS The Commission, usually referred to as the ARC, was established by city ordinance in November, 1973. It is staffed -by planners in the Community Development Department who do initial evaluation of development plans, confer with designers, prepare meeting agendas and assist the Commission in its duties. The Commission is responsible directly to the Council , which hears all appeals of ARC decisions.. (Ref: SLO M.C. Chapter 2.48, Ord. No. 600, 1973 Series; Guidelines amended 4/5/83, Res. 5086; Ord. 1138, 1989 Series.) Commissioners are compensated at $25.00 per meeting with a monthly maximum of $100.00. (Ref: Res. 6805, 1990 Series.) MEMBERS ' The ARC has seven citizen members appointed by the Council. The only special qualifications for membership are a proven interest in the city's physical environment and the ability to make positive and fair aesthetic evaluations. MEETINGS - Semi-monthly: Refer to chart on page 30. 11408ll ttliLIK The primary function of the ARC is to develop and maintain a pleasant and harmonious 1 environment, maintain property values, conserve the city's natural beauty, encourage public art, preserve and enhance its distinct visual character and ensure the orderly and harmonious development of the city with attention to site planning and exterior appearance of public and private structures. In ' addition, the Commission is responsible for establishing (with Council approval) guidelines for determining what is "good design." These guidelines are published in the form of a booklet with pictorial illustrations to help applicants understand the Commission's goal of maintaining a high level ' of architectural excellence in the city.. The Commission spends the majority of its time reviewing development plans, visiting project sites, and working with designers to ensure that projects follow the established city guidelines. Good ' design, obviously, is a subjective matter, and, for this reason, the guidelines emphasize flexibility to encourage creative designs and the innovative use of materials, methods and techniques. 11 Because of the emphasis on flexibility and excellence, the Commission generally prefers not to give a proposal a strict `yes" or "no." Instead, the Commissioners often engage in a "give and take" discussion with designers to help create a project that is not only designed technically, but which enhances and is compatible with the character of the immediate neighborhood and the city at large. It is important to understand that the Commission does not seek to dictate any particular style of architecture, but_instead seeks a harmonious variety of compatible building styles. SCOPE OF AUTHORITY Most building projects in the City, including exterior remodeling, require ARC approval before a building permit can be issued. The only three types that do not have these requirements are: 1. Individually built houses, with a few exceptions, as determined by the Community Development Director; 2. Minor proposals and minor construction which are incidental to a larger project; and 3. Signs that meet the minimum standards of the sign ordinance (and are not part of a larger project that does require ARC approval). In reviewing a specific project, the ARC prefers to review the complete architectural posture — that is, all factors involving the project's exterior appearance and site design. While the ARC is primarily concerned with the surface appearance of a structure, it may also review related factors, such as site layout and parking. The ARC is not concerned with interior function and design, except where it may impact the exterior appearance. Occasionally, some of the factors considered by the ARC, such as site layout and parking, may- overlap ayoverlap with the jurisdiction of the Planning Commission. This overlap is to be expected and does not necessarily mean that the two committees are duplicating work. The ARC is not concerned with appropriate use of property, and the Planning Commission primarily concerns itself with general site design only in connection with land -use decisions, leaving the details to the ARC. However, when a specific site layout is approved by the Planning Commission, the ARC is expected to work with the general layout established by the Planning Commission action. ARC approval by itself does not entitle a developer to building anything. It does not take the place of a building permit or other special approvals that might be required for a new project. Complete architectural review guidelines and more information about the ARC are contained in Architectural Review in San Luis Obispo, a booklet available at the Community Development Department. 12 1 PURPOSE 1 I I The Cultural Heritage Committee promotes the preservation of architectural, archaeological, historical and cultural resources in San Luis Obispo by: a) helping the public pursue cultural resource preservation projects; b) .sponsoring educational programs and research which improves our understanding of the community's history and archaeology; c) on request, commenting on the effects of public and private actions on community cultural resources; and d) helping with the administration of city -sponsored benefit programs. STATUS The Committee was established in 1981 as a technical committee and is staffed by a Planner from the Community Development Department. This committee became a permanent in February 1987 when Council adopted Resolution No. 6158 that establishes CHC functions and duties. (Ref- Bylaws RefBylaws amended by Res. 6593 [1989 series].) See also SLO M.C., Chapter 17.54, Ordinance No. 1086 (1987 series) establishing Historical Preservation Districts, and Res. 8002 allowing members to reside outside the three Historical Preservation Districts. MEMBERS The CHC is a seven member committee. Membership includes a person knowledgeable in local history, a person with training or experience in structural rehabilitation, a person with knowledge of architecture, and when possible, a person knowledgeable in local archaeology. The membership also includes a resident from each of the City's three Historical Preservation Districts, when possible. MEETINGS - Monthly - Refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS 1. Collect, consolidate and make available information about historical resources and historical resource sites, and promote, participate in, or sponsor educational and interpretive programs. 2. Provide advice and guidance for the restoration, alteration, decoration, landscaping or maintenance of historical resources or properties within Historical Preservation Districts. 3. Review the Inventory of Historical Resources and recommend to the Council any amendments. 4. Assist property owners with the preparation of National Register applications for historical resource sites. 5. Help to administer benefit programs approved by the Council that are directed at preserving historical resources or resources within Historical Preservation Districts. 13 6. -Publish and maintain Historical Preservation Program Guidelines which present, (a) benefit Programs sponsored by the City; (b) procedures for adding properties to the Inventory of Historical Resources - or for establishing- a historical district; and c) other information concerning historical preservations. 7. Review actions proposed by public agencies and provide information on how such actions may affect designated or eligible properties within or adjacent to historical districts. 8. Cooperate with local, state and federal agencies in the pursuit of historical preservation. 9. Function within the guidelines and policies of the. Advisory Bodies Handbook and perform'other duties as assigned by the Council. 14 I 1 1 -PURPOSE The Human Relations Commission advises the Council in creating an environment within the City in which all persons can enjoy equal rights and opportunities regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical, mental or economic status. The Commission makes recommendations to the Council or the CAO on how these social concerns and human needs can best be addressed. It is desired and expected .that specific functions of the HRC will change as solutions are found to specific problems or as times change and the needs and priorities of the community in this field evolve. 1 STATUS 1 1 1 1 The Commission was established by the Council in 1964. (Ref: established by motion 1/6/64, SLO M.C. Chapter 2.56, amended by Ord. 1150 [1989 series], Bylaws amended by Res. 6329.) The Commission oversees city -approved programs such as a referral service for those members of the community in need. The HRC staff is in contact with other human service agencies throughout the city, county and state. lul ul: 7.y The HRC has seven members and is staffed by the Parks & Recreation Department. While there are no special qualifications for appointees, the Council usually seeks individuals with experience, or a demonstrated interest in community social issues. MEETINGS - Monthly - Refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS 1. To promote mutual understanding and foster harmonious relations between persons and groups within the community, and provide a forum for residents to discuss problems relating to human rights and relations; 2. To receive and investigate complaints concerning community tensions and acts of ' discrimination, and cooperate with and assist other human services groups which have similar Purposes; 3. To make recommendations to the Council when action is proposed as a means to insuring community cooperation and understanding; ' .4. To evaluate perceived inadequacies in human rights and services and to recommend possible action; ' 5. To review and evaluate all City -funding requests from groups which provide human services; to provide liaison to recipients of grants-in-aid moneys, through personal contact and required activity and budget reports; 1 15 6. Such duties, including studies and research, as the Council deems necessary and appropriate and assigns to the Commission. 7. To oversee Homeless Shelter operations and help foster good relations between the Shelter and surrounding neighborhood. 16 i ' PURPOSE The Parks and Recreation Commission is a body of citizens appointed to advise the City's Parks and Recreation Department and the Council on the development and operation of recreation programs and parks, and on the implementation of the Parks and Recreation Element of the General Plan. The Commission was created originally by the voters in 1941, and until 1978 was one of only two commissions mandated in the Charter. The 1978 Charter revision dropped reference to this commission and authorized the Council to establish individual commissions by separate ordinances. (Ref: SLO M.C. 2.16, Ordinance No. 215N ( 1940 Series), Ord. #113711989 series)). The Commission works closely with the Recreation Director and his staff and with the Parks Maintenance Division of the Public Works Department. MEMBERS The Parks and Recreation Commission has seven members. 1 MEETINGS - Monthly; refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS The Commission advises and makes recommendations on all aspects of the. City's parks and. recreation programs. The Commission is expected to: 1. Provide leadership in developing a comprehensive recreational program for city tresidents of all ages. 2. Be familiar with the types of recreation programs and parks that residents need and ' want. 3. Plan, through implementation of the Parks and Recreation Element, for the parks that will be needed in the future as the City grows. 4. Advise the Parks & Recreation Director, as requested, on department administration. 17 PURPOSE The Personnel Board exists to provide a forum for hearing both sides of unresolved employee grievances and disciplinary matters. The Board's goal is to bring out all information pertinent to a case and give all interested parties a chance to state their views. The Board can then make recommendations to the Council based on complete information, thus relieving the Council of what can be a very time-consuming process. The Board may perform other advisory roles as directed from time to time which are consistent with the Charter and which best use the skills and talents of the Board members. STATUS In June 1978 city voters approved an amendment to the Charter that required the Council to set up an advisory board for personnel matters. The Board, responsible to the Council, began operating in July 1979. The Personnel Department provides whatever staff support the Board.requires. (Ref SLO M.C. Chapter 2.36, Ordinance 808, 1979 Series.) MEMBERS The Personnel Board has five members. Although there are no special qualifications for appointment, some knowledge or background in personnel matters is helpful. MEETINGS The Board meets whenever a personnel matter requires it. The meetings are at a time mutually convenient to Board members, staff and other involved persons. FUNCTIONS The board makes recommendations in two general areas: (1) When an employee appeals a disciplinary action taken against him/her, and, (2) when an employee files a grievance that cannot be settled at an administrative level. . In the case of a grievance, the Board will give the CAO an advisory opinion, based on either the written record alone, or on the written record plus sworn testimony taken at a hearing. For a disciplinary case, the Board always holds a hearing—open or closed, according to the employee's wishes. The Board then forwards its findings and recommendations to the Council. The Board has the power to subpoena witnesses and documents for its hearing. If either party asks for a subpoena before the hearing, the Board must issue it. After the hearing begins, subpoenas may be issued at the Board's discretion. . Three members constitute a quorum. A member may vote on a recommendation only if he/she is present for the entire hearing, or if the member certifies he/she has listened to a recording, or read the transcript of that portion of the hearing that he/she missed. 18 1 1 1 1 1 0 The Planning Commission must regularly make decisions regarding land use policies and specific development applications. Some are recommendations to the Council and some are final, subject to appeal to the Council. The Commission also reviews and recommends long-range plans for the City's growth and development. STATUS The Commission was established in the 1940s. It is staffed by planners in the Community Development Department who prepare meeting agendas, meet with developers, and handle other functions for the Commission. The Commission is responsible to the Council. (Ref SLO M.C. Chapter 2.12, Ordinance No. 254N.. 1944 [1944 Series], Ordinance 1139 [1989 series]. Commissioners are compensated at $25.00 per meeting with a monthly maximum of $100.00, Resolution 6805 [1990 series].) MEMBERS - - - The Planning Commission has seven members who are not necessarily planning professionals. No special training is required for appointment. Members occasionally may be requested to attend seminars and workshops to improve skills in planning. MEETINGS - Semi-monthly; refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS The Planning Commission.makes recommendations to the Council in five areas: 1. General Plan - The Commission reviews proposals on long-range planning policies. These may be in the form of new sections for the General Plan or amendments to the existing plan, and are brought to the Commission by city planning staff, consultants, and private applicants. 2. Zonis - The Commission reviews proposals for changes in the zoning of land, or in the zoning regulations, and makes recommendations to the Council. In some matters, such as use permits, the Commission's decision is final, unless appealed to the Council. 3. Subdivisions - The Commission makes recommendations to the Council on the 1 subdivision of land. 4. Capital- Improvement Prosram - The City's long-range financial plan for major municipal construction projects, equipment purchases and planning studies is reviewed for General Plan conformance by the Commission, and its recommendations are forwarded to the Council. 19 PURPOSE 1 1 1 1 1 0 The Planning Commission must regularly make decisions regarding land use policies and specific development applications. Some are recommendations to the Council and some are final, subject to appeal to the Council. The Commission also reviews and recommends long-range plans for the City's growth and development. STATUS The Commission was established in the 1940s. It is staffed by planners in the Community Development Department who prepare meeting agendas, meet with developers, and handle other functions for the Commission. The Commission is responsible to the Council. (Ref SLO M.C. Chapter 2.12, Ordinance No. 254N.. 1944 [1944 Series], Ordinance 1139 [1989 series]. Commissioners are compensated at $25.00 per meeting with a monthly maximum of $100.00, Resolution 6805 [1990 series].) MEMBERS - - - The Planning Commission has seven members who are not necessarily planning professionals. No special training is required for appointment. Members occasionally may be requested to attend seminars and workshops to improve skills in planning. MEETINGS - Semi-monthly; refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS The Planning Commission.makes recommendations to the Council in five areas: 1. General Plan - The Commission reviews proposals on long-range planning policies. These may be in the form of new sections for the General Plan or amendments to the existing plan, and are brought to the Commission by city planning staff, consultants, and private applicants. 2. Zonis - The Commission reviews proposals for changes in the zoning of land, or in the zoning regulations, and makes recommendations to the Council. In some matters, such as use permits, the Commission's decision is final, unless appealed to the Council. 3. Subdivisions - The Commission makes recommendations to the Council on the 1 subdivision of land. 4. Capital- Improvement Prosram - The City's long-range financial plan for major municipal construction projects, equipment purchases and planning studies is reviewed for General Plan conformance by the Commission, and its recommendations are forwarded to the Council. 19 5. City Services and Resources - The Commission reviews the adequacy of city services and resources needed for proposed development. When city facilities or resources are in danger of being overburdened, the Commission offers recommendations to the Council on possible remedies. in weighing decisions on the growth and development of the City of San Luis Obispo, the Commission provides a sounding board for public opinion. Although commissioners do consider the rights and desires of property owners/developers and the general public, they must make their decisions , pursuant to the General Plan, ordinances, and other standards and procedures set forth in state and city law. - 1 0 1 1 n 1 1 1 1 20 1 I 1 PURPOSE The Promotional Coordinating Commission (PCC) assists the Council in working to improve the quality of life for all city.residents and our visitors. The Committee recommends projects to help promote the City as a regional trade, recreation and tourist center, consistent with long-range community goals. 1 STATUS ' The PCC was established in 1970 as a permanent body responsible to the Council. This Committee is unusual in that it has an annual budget which, while originally developed by formula based on transient occupancy tax and business tax receipts; is no longer formula -funded, but based on annual cost -of -living increases to the prior year's budget. (Ref: Council Minutes dated 6/23/70 and R- 4948 establishing Bylaws, Bylaws amended by Resolution 6592 ([1989 series].) MEMBERS The PCC has seven members. The Council usually seeks appointees with experience in some ' aspect of.promotion, advertising, tourism or in community cultural activities. MEETINGS - Monthly; refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS 1. Planning a comprehensive, long-range program to promote the City. 2. Preparing an annual program consistent with the long-range program. The Committee's ' recommendation for the annual program is presented to the Council for approval at the first regular Council meeting in June. 3. Developing city advertising and promotional programs and projects. 4. Hearing requests from cultural and promotional groups seeking city grants; recommending groups to the Council for funding. 5. Presents monthly informal written reports to the City Council regarding the Promotional Coordinating Committee's Grants -in -Aid, advertising, and other promotional programs.. 6. Initiating and supporting community activities that are meaningful to residents and visitors alike. 7. Providing a liaison between city committees and civic organizations outside of government that work to promote the quality of life for residents and visitors of the City of San Luis Obispo. 171, t 21 v. technical ana special puaposE 1 Bicycle Advisory Committee Board of Appeals Jack House Joint Recreational Use of School District Property Committee ' Mass Transportation Committee Tree Committee These permanent advisory bodies are appointed by the Council. They may meet regularly or only when projects or proposals require their attention. Membership eligibility is defined in each body's enabling legislation, and members are selected, (1) on the basis of experience and knowledge in the special field pertinent to the committee; (2) because .representation from a particular segment of the ' community is desired (i.e., elderly, disabled, student); or (3) from a broad representation of community interest and expertise. These committees work closely with city staff and report to the Council through city staff. ' AD HOC OR TEMPORARY CON MTTEES An ad hoc or temporary committee is appointed by the CAO and/or the Council to address specific subjects which.require a degree of technical expertise. The committee's purpose is to provide advice and possible recommendations to city staff or Council, and the committee sunsets when a final ' report is filed in the CAO's office or presented to Council. The only prerequisites for appointment are interest, expertise or as otherwise determined by the CAO or the Council when the committee is established. The CAO shall keep the Council informed regarding the existence and actions of all such committees. 1 22 ' i BICYCLE ADVISORY COM TTEE ' PURPOSE ' The purpose of the Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC) is to provide oversight and policy direction on matters related to bicycle transportation in San Luis Obispo and its relationship to bicycling outside the City. ' STATUS ' The BAC was established as a permanent committee in October 1993. MEMBERS ' The BAC has seven members. ' MEETINGS - Quarterly; refer to chart on page 30. BOARD OF APPEALS ' PURPOSE The Board of Appeals holds hearings on requests for relief from the strict application of the provisions of the City Building Code, or other specifications in any uniform code, to determine suitability of alternate materials or methods of construction. STATUS The Board was established in 1979 and is required under provisions of the City Building Code. The Board is staffed by the Chief Building Official. (Ref: R-4017, adopted 11/29/79.) MEMBERS The Board consists of five members who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction. Members need not be residents of the city. When appeal ' issues involve persons with disabilities, the Board expands to seven members, two of whom are disabled. MEETINGS - Held on call. 23 ' PURPOSE The Jack House Committee assists the Council and the Parks and Recreation Department -in the administration and restoration of the historic Jack Residence at 536 Marsh Street. The Committee makes recommendations for basic rules and regulations which will allow :for the greatest possible public use and enjoyment of the house and grounds while protecting and preserving the history and integrity of this cultural and recreational facility. STATUS i 1 The Committee was established in 1975 as a condition of a deed granting the former residence of the Jack family to the City of San Luis Obispo. The Committee is staffed by the Parks & Recreation Director and members of his staff. (Ref. R-2761, adopted 4/7/75.) ' MEMBERS The Committee has seven members who are required to be city residents, except for the heir to the Jack family. Membership is spelled out in the grant deed and consists of one person each from the County Historical Society, Cal Poly School of Architecture faculty, Cal Poly .Department of Ornamental Horticulture faculty, and City Parks & Recreation Commission and the heirs of Robert and Nellie Jack. Additionally, there are two members -at -large appointed for four-year terms by the Council. The Committee is exempt from the two term (8 year) limit. 1 I 1 1 1 1 24 ' L IL n� JOINT RECREATIONAL USE OF SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY COMMITTEE PURPOSE The Joint Recreational Use Committee advises the Council and the San Luis Coastal Unified School District Board regarding policy for operation of school district joint use recreational facilities and priorities for granting use of those facilities, and plans for balanced integration of school district property being developed. STATUS The Committee was established in 1981, and is staffed by the Parks & Recreation Department, the Public Works Department, and a staff member of the Unified School District. (Ref: SLO M.C. Chapter 2.52, Ordinance No. 906, adopted 10/27/81.) The Joint Use Committee consists of seven members, one of whom is a representative of the Parks & Recreation Commission. MEETINGS - Monthly; refer to chart on page 30. MASS TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE PURPOSE The Mass Transportation Committee assists with an ongoing program of public transit in the City and Cal Poly. The Committee makes recommendations to the Council regarding routes, schedules, capital projects, fares, marketing and additional services. STATUS The Committee was established in 1972 to study the feasibility of a public mass transit system to serve city residents and visitors. It is staffed by the Transit Manager in the Public Works Department. (Ref: Chapter 2.20, Ord. 1140 { 1989 series), R2382, adopted 10/14/72, Bylaws amended by Ord. 1140 [1989 series].) MEMBERS ' The Committee has seven members, consisting of (1) one person from Cal Poly (a permanent position); (2) one senior citizen; (3) one person from the business community; (4) one person with technical transportation planning experience; (5) one disabled person; (6) one member -at -large, and (7) ' a representative from the Human Relations Commission. MEETINGS - Held on call, generally on a quarterly basis. ' 25 BUSINESS MROVEMENT ASSOCIATION _ 1 ADVISORY BOARD , PURPOSE 1. Study and recommendation of solutions to problems relevant to parking and traffic ' circulation within the area; 2. General promotion of trade activity in the area and promotion of public events which take ' place in public places in the area; 3. Development and implementation of beautification programs for the area. ' STATUS ' The Downtown Parking and Business Improvement Area was established by the Council in 1973, with boundaries approximating the major retail and professional area of the downtown. Each ' business or professional office in this area is required to pay an additional sum equal to 100 percent of its business license fee; the revenues derived from this assessment are used exclusively for the activities conducted to carry out the purpose of the organization. (Ref: SLO M.C. Chapter 12.36, Res. , 2510, 1973 Series. See also Streets and Highways Code Section 36000 et seq., Bylaws amended by Res. 6630 [1989 series].) 1LKV1Lan1Vne The Advisory Board of the BIA is composed of 11 members who each have a business in the , area. The Board members are first elected by ballot by the BIA members and then confirmed by appointment by the Council for two-year terms. MEETINGS - Monthly. ' 26 ' i 1 1 1 1 C II' f� ;II r 1 I 1 1 PURPOSE The Housing Authority Commission advises the Council on the housing issues and needs of the .low- and moderate -income households in the city. STATUS The Commission was established by the Council in 1968 to fulfill the responsibilities related to the creation of the Housing Authority. The Housing Authority is a separate public corporation which, understate and federal law, is responsible for implementing programs which assist families or elderly persons who lack the income necessary to enable them to obtain housing that is decent, safe and sanitary. The legal authority, powers, duties and responsibilities of the Commission are defined by the California Health and Safety Code (Housing Authorities Law) and the corporation bylaws of the Commission. (Ref: Authorized by City Election held 6/4/68.) MEMBERS The Commission has seven members. Terms of office, qualifications for appointment and grounds for removal from office are defined by state law. Five of the members serve four-year terms and are appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation by the Council. The other two members are appointed by the Mayor from the Housing Authority's tenant population and each serves a two-year term. At least one of the tenant members must be 62 years of age or older. MEETINGS - Monthly; refer to chart on page 30. FUNCTIONS The Commission is responsible for developing, maintaining and managing the City's low -rent housing and rental subsidy programs. It has direct legal responsibility for policy, staff and management of the Authority's multi-million dollar annual operating budget. 27 PURPOSE The Committee makes recommendations to the Council and staff on tree policies and regulations. Working with staff, the Committee prepares and maintains a Master Tree List and a Tree Planting Plan, as provided in the Municipal Code (Tree Regulations (Ref: M.C. 12.24 et al). STATUS The Tree Committee was established in 1977, is staffed the City Arborist, and meets on the fourth Monday of the month to consider tree removal requests and other issues. MEMBERS The Committee has five members who have an interest or expertise in horticulture; one is a representative of the Architectural Review Commission. MEETINGS - Monthly; refer to chart on page 30. 28 I 1 1 u 1 1 I 1 V,. the Bnown act California's Ralph M. Brown Act (Goverment Code Section 54950 through 54961), known as the "secret meeting" law, applies to all advisory bodies, and requires that they: 1. Meet within the jurisdictional limits of the city; 2. Post the agenda 72 hours before a regular meeting containing a brief general description of each item of business to be transacted or discussed. 3. Hold open and public meetings; 4. Give notice of the meetings to any requesting party at least 24 hours prior to the meeting; and 5. Provide in bylaws or rules for time and place of regular meetings, if regular meetings are to be held. The meaning of the Brown Act is simply that no advisory body may.meet secretly in order to conduct business. A meeting is defined as a gathering of a majority (quorum) of the advisory body for the purpose of discussing items before the body or conducting other business of the body. An advisory body is not prohibited from establishing a subcommittee. The Brown Act exempts ad hoc committees—as distinguished from standing committees—made up solely of less than a quorum of a legislative body. The Council and City Attorney shall be apprised of the existence of such subcommittees. Also, purely social gatherings are not subject to the Brown Act, but care should be taken to ensure that a social event, in effect, does not become a "meeting" because advisory body business is discussed. 1 From time to time questions arise as to whether a particular action, if taken, would constitute a violation of the Brown Act. 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