HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 4a. 1700 Palm Street (DIR-0378-2023) CAPSLO Safe Parking Temporary SiteCity of San Luis Obispo, Council Memorandum
City of San Luis Obispo
Planning Commission Agenda Correspondence
DATE: September 6, 2023
TO: Chair and Commissioners
FROM: Daisy Wiberg, Homelessness Response Manager
VIA: Tyler Corey, Deputy Community Development Director
SUBJECT: ITEM 4A - 1700 PALM ST. (DIR-0378-2023) CAPSLO SAFE PARKING
SITE – APPLICATION WITHDRAWAL.
Discussion
The City values the community’s input on Item 4a of the September 6, 2023 Special
Meeting of the Planning Commission regarding review of an Interim Safe Parking
Location at 1700 Palm Street (DIR-0378-2023). In the course of reviewing agenda
correspondence related to this item, City staff was made aware of recent case law that
casts doubt on the City’s ability to temporarily close Palm Street pursuant to California
Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) to establish a safe parking location at that location. At this
time, Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo (CAPSLO) has withdrawn their
application for the 1700 Palm Street location. Therefore, there is no application for use of
Palm Street as an interim Safe Parking location under consideration by the Planning
Commission (or the City’s Community Development Director).
The Planning Commission will still hold a meeting tonight and staff will provide an
overview of the rotating safe parking program with an opportunity for the public and
Planning Commission to provide comments, however no action will be taken by the
Planning Commission.
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT
SUBJECT: REVIEW OF AN INTERIM SAFE PARKING LOCATION AS PART OF THE
ROTATING OVERNIGHT SAFE PARKING PROGRAM THAT INCLUDES THE
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF A PORTION OF PALM STREET ADJACENT TO THE SLO
VETERAN’S HALL (LIMITED TO AN ANNUAL DURATION OF 120 DAYS), INTENDED
TO PROVIDE UNHOUSED INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES A SAFE PLACE TO
TEMPORARILY PARK A VEHICLE OVERNIGHT TO FACILITATE THE TRANSITION
TO PERMANENT HOUSING
By: Daisy Wiberg, Homelessness Via: Kyle Bell, Housing Coordinator
Response Manager Phone Number: 805-781-7524
Phone Number: 805-781-7025 Email: kbell@slocity.org
Email: dwiberg@slocity.org
FILE NUMBER: DIR-0378-2023 FROM: Tyler Corey, Deputy Director
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the Draft Resolution approving the project, based on findings and subject to
conditions of approval.
SITE DATA
Applicant
Representative
Zoning
General Plan
Site Area
Environmental
Status
CAPSLO
Jack Lahey
C-T (Tourist Commercial)
Tourist Commercial
0.4 acres
Exempt by California Government
Code Section 65660(b) from
environmental review under CEQA
Guidelines Section 15061(b)(1).
1.0 COMMISSION'S PURVIEW
At the discretion of the Community Development Director, a Director’s Action Permit may
be referred to the Planning Commission1. The Community Development Director has
referred this review to the Planning Commission given that it is the first application
received for the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program, that includes the temporary
1 Municipal Code Section 17.102.020(A) Director’s Actions. …The Director, at the Director’s sole
discretion, may elevate the level of review to a higher review process and/or authority .
Meeting Date: 9/6/2023
Item Number: 4a
Time Estimate: 30 Minutes
Page 11 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
use of public road right-of-way where a significant amount of public comment was
received regarding the proposed use of the site. The Planning Commission hearing is
intended to provide additional opportunity for public input.
The Planning Commission’s role is to review the project for consistency with the General
Plan, Zoning Regulations, Homelessness Response Strategic Plan, and applicable City
development standards. Planning Commission (PC) review is required to establish an
interim safe parking location through a Director’s Action Permit as part of the previously
approved Conditional Use Permit (USE-0304-2023) that established the Community
Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) as a Safe Parking Administrator
to operate a Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program in various locations throughout the
community, in accordance with Resolution No. PC-1079-23.
2.0 SUMMARY
On July 12, 2023, the Planning Commission approved the Conditional Use Permit (USE -
0304-2023) to establish CAPSLO as a Safe Parking Program Administrator to operate a
Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program in various locations throughout the community,
and which delegated the Planning Commission’s authority to approve location -specific
conditional use permits to the Community Development Director through a Director’s
Action Permit. However, as noted above, pursuant to San Luis Obispo Municipal Code
Section 17.102.020(A), the Director has elevated this review and decision to the Planning
Commission. CAPSLO is in the process of working with the City and property owners to
identify various locations that can accommodate a Rotating Safe Parking Program. The
program has been modeled after the Safe Overnight Parking Program in Santa Barbara
and Goleta that is managed by New Beginnings.
CAPSLO has applied for a Director’s Action Permit to establish an interim overnight safe
parking location within a portion of Palm Street adjacent to the Veteran’s Hall limited to
an annual duration of 120 days from the date of the approval of a Director’s Action Permi t.
This site would be facilitated through the temporary closure of a portion Palm Street where
it intersects with Grand Avenue.2 The program is proposed to operate during the hours of
7:00 pm to 7:00 am (overnight), and the site will be restored to normal each morning after
the operation of the program.
3.0 BACKGROUND
The first safe parking use in the City of SLO was known as the Zedakah House, a local
non-profit organization which provided emergency shelter to unhoused individuals by
utilizing buses. The program ceased operation in 1988 and was replaced by the “People’s
Shelter” which was a social service agency that continued to provide emergency shelter
services in buildings owned by religious organizations, the program is more commonly
known as the SLO Homeless “Overflow” Shelter.
2 In accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 21101, City Council Resolution No. 11152 (2020
Series) authorizes the Public Works Director to approve temporary closure of city streets when in the
opinion of the Public Works Director the closing is necessary for the safety and protection of persons who
are to use that portion of the street during the temporary closing.
Page 12 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
The People’s Shelter was established as a rotating model where a different religious
organization would facilitate between 25-35 beds for unhoused women and families each
month (Council Agenda Report). The People’s Shelter program operated between 1987
to 2018 and ceased operation once the new 40 Prado Homeless Services Center became
operational. The 40 Prado Homeless Services Cente r was also approved with an on-site
Safe Parking Program (USE-0413-2014).
On August 18, 2020, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 11149 (2020 Series)
affirming the actions of the Emergency Services Director by Emergency Services Director
Proclamation No. 5, which was adopted on August 7, 2020. Through the two actions, the
City found that emergency measures were necessary to support and facilitate the
expansion of safe parking facilities for unhoused persons in order to minimize exposure
to the elements that compromise health, to minimize risks of sustained close contact and
congregation to mitigate transmission of COVID-19, and to advance social distancing and
personal hygiene protocols necessary to prevent or minimize the spread of COVID-19
and protect the public health, safety, welfare and economic security of the citizens of San
Luis Obispo. Starting in October 2018, the County of San Luis Obispo also declared a
Shelter Crisis within the County pursuant to Government Code Section 8698, as
established and renewed by the County Board of Supervisors Ordinance No. 3479.
The Safe Parking Program at the Railroad site was initially established under the City’s
Emergency Proclamation to provide safe shelter options for individuals and families
experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
On July 6, 2021, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 11264 (2021 Series), which
consolidated and aligned prior Council emergency actions with revis ed state orders, and
continued prior actions to support protections for public health, safety and welfare, as well
as economic recovery. Resolution No. 11264 continued the suspension of Municipal
Code Chapter 17.86.230 (Safe Parking Regulations) until 180 days following the end of
the declared City, County and State emergency declarations. Section 7.C of the
Resolution describes the Community Development Director’s authority to immediately
allow for the establishment and operation of new Safe Parking locations by the City or a
third-party non-profit partner. The state of emergency declaration was terminated on
February 28, 2023, Resolution No. 11396 (2023 Series), and the Railroad Safe Parking
site will close after August 27, 2023.
The Safe Parking Program has proved highly effective in allowing providers to minimize
barriers and provide flexibility to quickly expand services to connect unhoused persons
to services and move into shelter or housing in a timely manner responsive to diverse
needs. The Director explored the option to establish the Safe Parking Program at the
current Railroad site, however, due to conflicting hours of operation for the parking area
with adjacent businesses and the Union Pacific Railroad, it was determined that other
locations in the community may be more viable.
In consideration of closing the Railroad Safe Parking site, the City has been working in
partnership with CAPSLO to locate new opportunities in the community to provide for the
continued service of the Safe Parking Program.
Page 13 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
Locations that are under consideration include partnerships with existin g religious
facilities, private landowners, City owned properties, and temporary street closures.
During several months of searching and working towards identifying viable locations, a
best practice used throughout the state was identified that allows for a rotating model of
the program at which multiple locations could provide for Safe Parking on a more
temporary basis which would further minimize disruptions of operations on any one
particular site.
4.0 PREVIOUS REVIEW
Given current capacity constraints throughout the local homeless services continuum, the
number of unhoused individuals including those with vehicles, and given the success of
the piloted Overnight Safe Parking Program at the Railroad location, the Rotating
Overnight Safe Parking Administrator Permit application was submitted to the City for
review by CAPSLO.
On July 12, 2023, the Planning Commission approved the Conditional Use Permit (USE -
0304-2023) to establish the Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County
(CAPSLO) as a Safe Parking Program Administrator to operate a Rotating Safe Parking
Program in various locations throughout the community. For example, in the event that
12 locations are identified, the program would be able to rotate locations for safe parking
once a month, and each location would then only need to provide space for the program
on the respective property for one month each year.
Several representatives from various religious institutions have been actively engaged in
determining feasibility of hosting the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program at their
respective sites. However, as the program is new, additional time is needed to ensure
locations are feasible. Therefore, the Palm Street location was determined to be a interim
measure to locate the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program in order to ensure
continuity of the program so that participants have access to a safe place to sleep at night.
The interim location on Palm Street for the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program is
the subject of the permit currently before the Planning Commission
4.1 Director’s Action Permit Review
Public notice of the proposal to use a portion of Palm Street for the Safe Parking Program
was initially published in the New Times for the Director’s Action that was sched uled for
action after August 14, 2023. Postcards were sent to all residents and property owners
within 300 feet of the proposed safe parking location on Palm Street, whereas postcards
are not typically required for Director Action Permits per City Council Resolution No.
10803 (2017 Series). The postcards were the public notice for the proposed safe parking
location on Palm Street and was meant to both inform t he neighborhood of the pending
location and also solicit feedback and comments. The comments that the City receives
from community members in response to these notices provide valuable feedback and
are considered when a decision is rendered. All comments received from the public have
been made available as Agenda Correspondence for the September 6, 2023, Planning
Commission hearing.
Page 14 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
On August 14, 2023, the Community Development Director reviewed a Director’s Action
Permit to establish an interim overnight safe parking location within a portion of Palm
Street adjacent to the Veteran’s Hall limited to an annual duration of 120 days. After
reviewing public comments regarding the proposed location, and in consideration that it
is the first application under review for the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program,
including the use of public road right-of-way, the Director referred the review of this
application to the Planning Commission to provide additional opportunity for public input.
5.0 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The proposed program would provide for CAPSLO to continue discussions with various
property owners in the community to join the list of host sites in providing safe parking
opportunities. CAPSLO would remain as the primary operator of the Safe Parking
Program at each location.
The Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program will ensure that CAPSLO can continue to
connect people with services and housing while also minimizing disruptions at any one
location. Participants of the Program are checked in each evening and checked out each
morning by CAPSLO staff. All participants of the program are required to be enrolled in
case management to work towards permanent or supportive housing. Each participant
will require a background check to verify there is no active criminal history (Please refer
to Attachment B for a detailed Program Description).
CAPSLO has applied for a Director’s Action Permit to establish an interim overnight safe
parking location within a portion of Palm Street adjacent to the Veteran’s Hall (Figure 1)
limited to an annual duration of 120 days. The program is proposed to operate during the
hours of 7:00 pm to 7:00 am (overnight), with check in starting at 6:00 pm. The site will
be restored to normal each morning after the operation of the program.
A Traffic Control Plan has been prepared to address the temporary closure of Palm Street
each evening during the operation of the Safe Parking Program (Attachment C, Traffic
Control Plan). The street will remain open to the public outside of the hours of the Safe
Parking Program.
The City’s Safe Parking Regulations require a 50-foot buffer from any existing residential
property. The proposed project provides at least a 100-foot buffer from the closest
residence along Palm Street (see Figure 1 for approximate location ). The project also
includes a Neighborhood Relations Plan, and if approved at this location, CAPSLO will
be required to mail relevant contact information and resources associated with the
program to all residents within a 300-foot radius of the site in accordance with the City’s
Good Neighbor Policy.
The program will include portable restroom facilities, a hand washing station and a
dumpster, which will all be locked and secured from any public use outside of the hours
of operation of the program. Participants, including those with RVs associated with the
program, are prohibited from parking within a half mile radius of the site outside of the
program hours. Participants who are found parked within a half mile of the site outside of
the program hours will risk being prohibited from future participation of the program
Page 15 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
(Attachment A, Exhibit B, Safe Parking Program Rules). The City’s Police Department will
routinely check the site to ensure there are no disturbances during program hours.
Figure 1 – Safe Parking Program Site Plan
5.1 Safe Parking Program Data
The current Railroad Safe Parking Program has proven to be a viable safe parking model,
demonstrated through the following successful outcomes. From September 1, 2022,
through August 27, 2023, the program has averaged 15 vehicles per night, serving an
average of 32 individuals every two weeks. Over that time period, the program has
facilitated 37 successful housing outcomes and CAPSLO staff have helped reunify 9
participants with families and assisted 6 clients with finding jobs. In the month of May
2023 alone, CAPSLO staff assisted 5 clients with securing permanent housing.
The Safe Parking Program not only meets the immediate and tangible need of providing
a safe place for unhoused individuals to park overnight, but it also provides a consistent
opportunity for CAPSLO to conduct outreach, provide case management support, and
connect individuals with needed resources.
Page 16 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
5.2 Pilot Program Development and Incorporation of Lessons Learned
The Railroad Safe Parking Program was implemented in April 2021 in response to the
Statewide Emergency Order during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide safe overnight
parking for individuals and families living out of their vehicles. After a year of operating
the program at the Railroad location, the City and CAPSLO made the decision to res et
the program in the Fall of 2022 to create more structure and oversight in response to
participant and community input.
The program reset included stenciling safe parking hours of operation on the parking
spaces, installing safe parking signage, adding water barriers to clearly define the
designated safe parking area, and updating the Safe Parking Program Rights and
Responsibilities document that must be signed by all program participants. The program
modifications were well-received by participants and community members who noted
significant improvements to the program operations and community impact.
Safe parking has emerged as a critical regional priority to address homelessness, with
both the County and City establishing safe parking locations in res ponse to the need.
While the County’s safe parking village at Oklahoma Avenue provided permanent 24-
hour safe parking opportunities for unhoused individuals, the City’s Railroad Safe Parking
Program was intentionally structured to be a small, overnight-only program to reduce
community impact and to provide a temporary safe parking location to facilitate the
transition into permanent housing.
Program participants have included elderly and disabled individuals, Cal Poly students,
individuals who work and volunteer during the day while searching for permanent housing
opportunities, and other individuals who are seeking stability and a consistent, safe place
to legally park overnight. Although challenges concerning unsheltered homeless
community members remain applicable citywide, since the program improvements made
in the fall of 2022 at the Railroad location, there has only been one issue regardi ng a
program participant involving a verbal altercation with a neighbor and the resulting action
was participant suspension from the program.
6.0 PROJECT ANALYSIS
The proposed program at the subject location must conform to the standards and
limitations of the Zoning Regulations and Engineering Standards. Staff has evaluated the
project’s consistency with relevant requirements and has found it to be in substantial
compliance, as discussed in this analysis.
6.1 Consistency with the General Plan
The General Plan Land Use Element Table 1 identifies Homeless Shelters and similar
services as appropriate within the Public Land Use Designation. Housing Element Policy
8.10 encourages the City to assist the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless
by supporting shelters, temporary housing, and transitional housing. The project is
consistent with the General Plan Policies because it provides a form of transitional shelter
Page 17 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.
City policies further support homeless services and transitional housing opportunities,
especially those located close to major transit, bike, and pedestrian corridors.
6.2 Major City Goal and Homelessness Response Strategic Plan
The City has established preventing and addressing homelessness as a key priority in
alignment with its Major City Goal for Housing and Homelessness3 and the SLO
Countywide Plan to Address Homelessness. According to Point in T ime Count Data, the
average number of people experiencing homelessness in the City of San Luis Obispo has
fluctuated between 482 and 385 since 2015. Of those experiencing homelessness in the
City, an average of 37% have been unsheltered, meaning that they reside in places not
meant for human habitation including public spaces, vehicles, and abandoned buildings.
Countywide, 370 people are experiencing vehicular homelessness, making up 26% of the
homeless population in SLO County and demonstrating the critica l need for safe parking
opportunities. The City’s small but pivotal program is the only overnight Safe Parking
Program in the region.
On March 21, 2023, the City Council adopted the Homelessness Response Strategic
Plan, which outlines the City’s role in implementing strategies to prevent homelessness
and connect individuals experiencing homelessness to services and housing. One of the
goals outlined in the Strategic Plan reads as follows:
“Collaborate with the County to develop scalable and replicable programs
to connect those experiencing homelessness to a variety of shelter and
housing options through timely outreach, and advocate for County
implementation of successful programs.”
The Safe Parking Program was specifically identified as a key task under the Strategic
Plan with the intent of working with the faith-based community to develop safe parking
options throughout the community.4 The proposed Director’s Action Permit is intended to
implement the objectives under the Strategic Plan.
6.3 Consistency with the Zoning Regulations
In accordance with Zoning Regulations Chapter 17.10. Table 2-1 (Uses Allowed by Zone),
safe parking uses within the Tourist Commercial (C-T) zone are conditionally allowed
subject to a Conditional Use Permit. On July 12, 2023, the Planning Commission
approved the Conditional Use Permit (USE -0304-2023) to establish Community Action
Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) as a Safe Parking Program
Administrator to operate a Rotating Safe Parking Program in various locations throughout
the community, and delegated the Planning Commission’s authority to approve location -
3 Major City Goal Housing and Homelessness 3(2)(d). Leverage additional funding from other partner
agencies for Mobile Crisis Unit (MCU) program, and Community Action Team (CAT) and service expansion;
develop sustainable safe parking programs; and pilot additional transitional shelter programs with regional
partners.
4 Homelessness Response Strategic Plan Goal 4. Objective 2(3). Pursue opportunities with the faith-
based community to develop safe parking or tiny home place ment initiatives.
Page 18 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
specific conditional use permits to the Community Development Director through a
Director’s Action Permit. However, as previously noted, pursuant to San Luis Obispo
Municipal Code Section 17.102.020(A), the Director has elevated this review and decision
to the Planning Commission. A Director’s Action Permit has been submitted in
accordance with the approved Conditional Use Permit to ensure that each location is
consistent with the Safe Parking Regulations Section 17.86.230(C).
Safe Parking Regulations Section 17.86.230 establishes standards required for any safe
parking facility within the City. As noted above and within the Program Description, the
applicant agrees to comply with all relevant standards under the Safe Parking
Regulations. Only participants who have entered into a written agreement with a social
service provider shall be allowed to use parking spaces overnight. Several factors of the
proposed project have been considered and analyzed as part of th is Director’s Action
Permit for consistency with the Safe Parking Regulations and the approved Conditional
Use Permit. These factors are identified and discussed below:
Duration: The cumulative duration of safe parking as part of the CAPSLO Rotating Safe
Parking Program at the subject location shall be limited to no more than 120 days
annually, beginning within one year of the approval date of this Director’s Action Permit ,
and annually thereafter (Condition No. 3).
Number of Vehicles Allowed: The maximum number of vehicles allowed as part of the
Safe Parking Program at the subject location shall not exceed twenty (20) vehicles or ten
(10) vehicles and five (5) recreational vehicles (RVs) (Condition No. 4). The layout of the
Safe Parking Program at the subject location shall be in substantial compliance with the
approved site plan.
Hours of Operation: The hours of operation for the Safe Parking Program at the subject
location shall be limited to 7:00 pm to 7:00 am, check-in for the Program shall not occur
any earlier than 6:00 pm (Condition No. 5).
Separation Between Facilities: The subject location provides for an adequate separation
of approximately 100 feet between the program boundaries and any property that
contains residential uses, where only 50 feet of separation is normally required.5
Neighborhood Relations Plan: The City established the Good Neighbor Policy in order to
maintain clear expectations between the community and homeless services. As such ,
CAPSLO has provided a Neighborhood Relations Plan based on the mitigation tools
outlined within the Good Neighbor Policy (Attachment A, Exhibit A, Neighborhood
Relations Plan).
5 Municipal Code Section 17.86.230(E)(6). Buffer from Residential Use. Participant vehicles shall
maintain a minimum buffer of fifty feet from any property that contains a residential use. Buffers less than
fifty feet may be allowed through the use permit review process on a case-by-case basis when determined
to be compatible with the neighborhood. Buffers greater than fifty feet may be necessary for neighborhood
compatibility, which will be determined on a case-by-case basis as part of the conditional use permit review
process.
Page 19 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
Monitoring and Oversight: A Monitoring and Oversight Plan has been provided for the
subject location that outlines the process and procedures to implement security measures
for the subject location. CAPSLO staff will be on site during the check in and check out
portions of the program, and 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and 6:45 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. CAPSLO
designates a participant who has been consistent with their enrollment, has shown
initiative with their desire to enroll in case management, and has embodied the spirit of
shared respect and responsibility as the designated Site Captain. The Site Captain
supports staff in maintaining the site, which includes moving barricades, monitoring
bathrooms and trash, and communicating with CAPSLO on any site issues. Through
partnership with the Police Department (SLOPD), the nightly program roster will be
shared to allow for SLOPD to address any unregistered parkers during the night. The
Director of Homeless Services and the Manager of Homeless Services at CAPSLO will
review weekly reports from program staff on the programmatic and operational status o f
the program. CAPSLO leadership, in partnership with the City of SLO, will make all
needed program modifications to uphold community and participant safety and wellbeing
(Attachment A, Exhibit C, Monitoring and Oversight Plan). In addition, CAPSLO has
provided a point of contact that program participants and community members may
contact via phone or e-mail with any issues or concerns related to the program
(Attachment D, Quick Contact Reference Sheet).
Restroom, Water and Trash Facility Plan: CAPSLO will ensure that water, restrooms and
trash facilities are made available for participant use between the hours of 7:00 pm to
7:00 am. Trash and restroom maintenance will be provided at least twice a week, or as
otherwise stipulated by the Public Works Director. Restrooms and trash facilities may be
stored on site during the duration of the program and shall be locked and secured from
any public use outside of the program operating hours, subject to the satisfaction of the
Public Works Director (Condition No. 9).
7.0 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Postcards were mailed to all residents and property owners within 300 feet of the
proposed safe parking location on Palm Street. The Safe Parking Program is specifically
identified in the Housing Element as a Policy and Program and the City’s first
Homelessness Response Strategic Plan, which is included as a work program item in the
2023-25 Financial Plan Housing & Homelessness Major City Goal. Now that the Director’s
Action has been elevated to the Planning Commission in accordance with Municipal Code
Section 17.102.020, public notice of this public hearing has been published in a widely
circulated local newspaper, and hearing agendas for this meeting have been posted at
City Hall, consistent with required notification procedures. All comments received during
the Director’s Action Permit review have been provided to the Planning Commission as
Agenda Correspondence for further consideration of the proposed project. Email notices
have been provided for each member of the public that expressed comments related to
the Director’s Action Permit review with information related to the Planning Commission
hearing.
Page 20 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
7.1 Summary of Comments Received
Staff received 22 emails, 12 phone calls, and two in person meetings with various
individuals with interest in the proposed program at the subject location. While a few of
the comments received expressed support of the proposed program at the subject
location, the majority of the comments expressed opposition to the proposed location.
The comments received in opposition of the program included the following concerns;
Community Concern Additional Information
1 Proximity to a residential
neighborhood.
Safe Parking is a conditionally allowed use in any
zone that also allows for residential uses (17.10.020:
Table 2-1), so long as a 50-foot buffer from the
closest residential property can be maintained.
2
Safety and security of
residents, Cal Poly
students, and employees
in the vicinity of the site.
All participants of the program must abide by the
Safe Parking Program Rules that include the
following: abide by the Good Neighbor Policy;
maintain safe, respectful, and be courteous to all
neighbors; A 290/Megan's law check must be
completed for all participants; services cannot be
provided for those with sex offenses in their
background.
3 Limited noticing and public
comment opportunities. See Section 4.1 of this Agenda Report.
4 Disruptions to traffic due to
the street closure.
A Traffic Control Plan has been prepared to divert
traffic during the temporary closure of the street
between the hours of 7 pm and 7 am.
5
Parking availability for
residents and events at the
Veteran’s Hall.
The program will be limited to the hours of 7pm and
7am, the public parking stalls will remain available for
all citizens outside of the program’s operating hours.
6
Concerns that this activity
may exasperate the
existing issues that have
occurred with unhoused
individuals for residents
and employers in the
vicinity to the site.
According to data from Railroad Overnight Safe
Parking for the 10-month period, only one call for
service concerned a safe parking participant. For the
temporary duration of the proposed Overnight Safe
Parking Program at Palm St., it is not anticipated that
the program will exasperate or increase calls for
service. Please visit slocity.org/homelessness for
more information on resources and City efforts to
prevent and address homelessness.
Page 21 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
7
Neighboring hotels have
expressed concerns that
the activity may impact
operations, shortly after
the recovery from the
impacts experienced
through the pandemic.
The proposed Overnight Safe Parking Program at
the Palm Street location is modest in size at a
maximum of 20 safe parking vehicles and will not
block any commercial driveways or use private
parking stalls. The site is proposed as an interim use
and will be limited to no more than 120 days,
annually.
8
Lack of parking
enforcement for vehicles
already parked in the
neighborhoods.
The City Parking Enforcement team issues citations
for vehicles that are in violation of parking restrictions
for City-owned parking lots and public streets. Once
Parking Enforcement cites a vehicle, the Police
Department is notified and they are responsible for
removing the vehicle in violation. For issues related
to parking enforcement please contact the City’s
Parking Enforcement Division: (805) 781-7230.
9
Spill-over effects of non-
participants of the program
in vicinity of the site during
and outside of the program
operating hours.
Only participants are allowed on site during safe
parking hours. Outside of safe parking hours,
participants are required to leave and stay a ½ mile
away from the safe parking lot. Participants in found
to be in violation will be issued a Rule Notification
and repeated violations will result in corrective action
or suspension from the program. For the temporary
duration of the proposed Overnight Safe Parking
Program at Palm St., it is not anticipated that the
program will increase the number of existing
unsheltered in the vicinity of the proposed site.
Please visit slocity.org/homelessness for more
information on resources and City efforts to prevent
and address homelessness.
10
Clarification of why a street
closure was considered in
lieu of alternative public
parking facilities.
The City and CAPSLO have been analyzing many
private and public parking lots and right of way
locations with several under consideration for the
rotating program. However, during the development
of the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program, the
Palm Street location has been identified as an interim
location.
8.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The project is a Low Barrier Navigation Center which is an activity exempt from the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by California Government Code Section
65660(b), in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(1). T he Project also
has no potential for causing a significant effect on the environment in accordance with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). The temporary closure of a portion of the public
street (Palm Street) is categorically exempt from the provisions of CEQA because the
Page 22 of 43
Item 4a
DIR-0378-2023 (1700 Palm Street) CAPSLO Safe Parking Program
Planning Commission Report – September 6, 2023
street closure is limited to the hours of 7:00 pm to 7:00 am for a cumulative total of no
more than 120 days annually, the proposed safe parking activity does not result in any
expansion of existing use of the street and would not result in any significant effect on the
environment in accordance with the approved Traffic Control Plan that has been provided
to divert traffic during the operation of the Safe Parking Program. The proposed temporary
restrooms and wash station are categorially exempt from the provision s of CEQA
because the placement of the portable restroom is provided for the expressed use of
participants of the program and will have no significant impact on the environment, as
described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15311 (Accessory Structures).
9.0 OTHER DEPARTMENT COMMENTS
The project has been reviewed by various City departments and divisions including
Planning, Engineering, Housing & Homelessness, Police, Transportation, Parking, Fire,
and Code Enforcement. Comments have been incorporated into the draft resolution as
conditions of approval.
10.0 ALTERNATIVES
1. Continue project. An action to continue the item should include a detailed list of
additional information or analysis required to make a decision.
2. Deny the project. An action denying the project should include findings that cite the
basis for denial and should reference inconsistency with the General Plan, Community
Design Guidelines, Zoning Regulations or other policy documents. If the action is
denied the Safe Parking Program will be paused until additional rotating sites at other
locations are approved through future Director Action permits.
11.0 ATTACHMENTS
A - Draft PC Resolution
Exhibit A - Neighborhood Outreach Plan
Exhibit B - Safe Parking Program Rules
Exhibit C - Monitoring and Oversight Plan
B - Program Description
C - Traffic Control Plan
D - Quick Contact Reference Sheet
Page 23 of 43
Page 24 of 43
RESOLUTION NO. PC-XXXX-23
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO PLANNING
COMMISSION APPROVING A DIRECTOR’S ACTION PERMIT
ESTABLISHING AN INTERIM SAFE PARKING LOCATION AS PART OF
THE ROTATING OVERNIGHT SAFE PARKING PROGRAM THAT
INCLUDES THE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF A PORTION OF PALM
STREET ADJACENT TO THE SLO VETERAN’S HALL, INTENDED TO
PROVIDE UNHOUSED INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES A SAFE PLACE
TO TEMPORARILY PARK A VEHICLE OVERNIGHT TO FACILITATE
THE TRANSITION TO PERMANENT HOUSING; AS REPRESENTED IN
THE STAFF REPORT AND ATTACHMENTS DATED SEPTEMBER 6,
2023 (1700 PALM STREET, USE-0378-2023)
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a web
based public hearing on August 18, 2020, adopting Resolution No. 11149 (2020 Series),
that authorized the City to establish the Railroad Square Safe Parking Program under the
City’s Emergency Proclamation to provide safe shelter options for individuals and families
experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 Pandemic, pursuant to a proceeding
instituted by the Emergency Services Director Proclamation No. 5; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a web
based public hearing on July 6, 2021, adopting Resolution No. 11264 (2021 Series),
which consolidated and aligned prior Council emergency actions with revised state
orders, and authorized the Community Development Director to establish new Safe
Parking locations to provide safe shelter options for individuals and families experiencing
homelessness, proceeding the end of the suspension of Municipal Code Chapter
17.86.230, that was extended to 180 days after the end of the declared City, County, and
State emergency declarations; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California,
on February 28, 2023, adopting Resolution No. 11396 (2023 Series), terminating the
declaration of a local emergency for the COVID-19 Pandemic, and re-implementing
enforcement of Municipal Code Chapter 17.86.230 starting after August 27, 2023 ; and
WHEREAS, the General Plan 6th Cycle Housing Element includes Goal 1: Safety,
to provide safe, decent shelter for all residents) and Goal 8: Special Housing Needs
encourage the creation and maintenance of housing for those with special housing
needs), with supporting policies and programs that include but are not limited to: assisting
those citizens unable to obtain safe shelter on their own, supporting local and regional
solutions to homelessness, and assisting the homeless and those at risk of becoming
homeless by supporting to encourage the creation of housing development that meets a
variety of special needs; and
Page 25 of 43
Resolution No. PC-XXXX-23
Palm Street Safe Parking Program (DIR-0378-2023)
Page 2
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California,
on March 21, 2023, adopting the Homelessness Response Strategic Plan, which outlines
the City’s role in implementing strategies to prevent homelessness and connect
individuals experiencing homelessness to services and housing. The Safe Parking
Program was specifically identified as a key task under the Strategic Plan Goal 4
Objective 2, with the intent of working with the faith -based community to develop safe
parking options throughout the community; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a
public hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California, on July 12, 2023, approving a Conditional Use Permit to establish the
Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) as a Safe Parking
Program Administrator to operate a Rotating Safe Parking Program in various locations
throughout the community, pursuant to a proceeding instituted under USE-0304-2022,
CAPSLO, applicant; and
WHEREAS, the Community Development Director of the City of San Luis Obispo
reviewed a Director’s Action Permit on August 14, 2023, and elevated the review to the
Planning Commission given the public input received regarding the proposed use of the
site and to provide additional opportunity for public input, under the authority granted to
the Director in accordance with Municipal Code Section 17.102.020(A), pursuant to a
proceeding instituted under DIR-0378-2023, CAPSLO, applicant; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a
public hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo,
California, on September 6, 2023, pursuant to a proceeding instituted under DIR-0378-
2023, CAPSLO, applicant; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo has duly
considered all evidence, including the testimony of the applicant, interested parties, and
evaluation and recommendations by staff, presented at said hearing; and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearings were made at the time and in the
manner required by law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City
of San Luis Obispo as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings. The Planning Commission hereby grants final approval of
the Director’s Action Permit authorizing the site for an interim safe parking location (DIR-
0378-2023), based on the following findings:
1. As conditioned, the program will not harm the general health, safety, and welfare
of people living or working in the vicinity because conditions of approval have been
included to ensure compatibility with surrounding uses and provide for the
facilitation of participants’ transition to permanent housing.
Page 26 of 43
Resolution No. PC-XXXX-23
Palm Street Safe Parking Program (DIR-0378-2023)
Page 3
2. The temporary closure of a portion of Palm Street is consistent with intent and
provisions of California Vehicle Code Section 21101 that is authorized through City
Council Resolution No. 11152 (2020 Series), and the County Board of Supervisors
Ordinance No. 3459 (2021 Series) which establishes the Shelter Crisis within the
County of San Luis Obispo, pursuant to Government Code Section 8698.2 .
3. The proposed project is consistent with General Plan Housing Element (HE)
policies to support local solutions to meet the needs of the homeless (HE 1.7 and
8.11).
4. The proposed program implements key task 3.2.d in the City’s 2023-2025 Major
City Goals for Housing and Homelessness by providing sustainable safe parking
and transitional shelter programs for individuals and families experiencing
homelessness in partnership with Community Action Partnership of San Luis
Obispo County.
5. The proposed program is intended to implement the objectives under the City’s
Homelessness Response Strategic Plan to establish safe parking program options
throughout in the community (Goal 4, Objective 2).
6. As conditioned, the proposed use is consistent with temporary use provisions of
the Zoning Regulations because the use of safe parking is conditionally allowed
within the Tourist-Commercial (C-T) zone and the use will not exceed a cumulative
total duration of 120 days annually, beginning within one year of the approval date
of this Director’s Action permit.
7. As conditioned, the proposed safe parking program at this location complies with
all provisions of the City’s Safe Parking Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter
17.86).
8. As conditioned, the project complies with all applicable provisions of the Zoning
Regulations as described within the property development standards for the C-T
zone. The proposed safe parking use is compatible with the project site and other
land uses in the vicinity because the program consists of temporary overnight
parking on a public street where existing on-street parking is currently allowed.
9. As conditioned, the site is physically suitable in terms of public utilities, traffic
generation, and public emergency vehicle access, because the temporary closure
of a portion of Palm Street includes an approved Tr affic Control Plan that will
deviate traffic in a safe manner, while providing for emergency access, during the
operation of the safe parking program between the hours of 7:00 pm and 7:00 am.
The site is adequate for the project in terms of size, configuration, topography, and
other applicable features, and has appropriate access to public streets with
adequate capacity to accommodate the quantity and type of traffic expected to be
diverted by the temporary closure of the street during the hours of the program
operation.
Page 27 of 43
Resolution No. PC-XXXX-23
Palm Street Safe Parking Program (DIR-0378-2023)
Page 4
SECTION 2. Environmental Review. The project is a Low Barrier Navigation
Center which is an activity exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
by California Government Code Section 65660(b), in accordance with CEQA Guidelines
Section 15061(b)(1). The Project also has no potential for causing a significant effect on
the environment in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3). The
temporary closure of a portion of the public street (Palm Street) is categorically exempt
from the provisions of CEQA because the street closure is limited to the hours of 7:00 pm
to 7:00 am for a cumulative total of no more than 120 days annually, the proposed safe
parking activity does not result in any expansion of existing use of the street and would
not result in any significant effect on the environment in accordance with the approved
Traffic Control Plan that has been provided to divert traffic during the operation of the safe
parking program. The proposed temporary restrooms and wash station are categorially
exempt from the provisions of CEQA because the placement of the portable restroom is
provided for the expressed use of participants of the program and will have no significant
impact on the environment, as described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15311 (Accessory
Structures).
SECTION 3. Action. The Planning Commission hereby grants final approval to
the Safe Parking Program at the subject location with incorporation of the following
conditions:
Planning Division
1. This Director’s Action Permit shall be subsequently reviewed at a public
Administrative Hearing if the City receives substantiated written complaints from any
citizen, Code Enforcement Officer, or Police Department employee, which includes
information and/or evidence supporting a conclusion that a violation of this Director’s
Action Permit, or of City ordinances or regulations or Police Department resources
(calls for service) applicable to the property or the operation of the Safe Parking
Program at the subject location, has occurred. At the time of the review, to ensure
on-going compatibility of the uses on the project site, the Administrative Hearing
Office reserves the authority to elevate the review to the Planning Commission,
where conditions of approval may be added, deleted, or modified, or the Director’s
Action Permit may be revoked.
2. The project shall comply with all conditions applicable to the project site, as
established under Planning Commission Resolution No. PC-1079-23.
3. The cumulative duration of the interim safe parking facility as part of the CAPSLO
Rotating Safe Parking Program at the subject location shall be limited to no more
than 120 days annually, beginning within one year of the approval date of this
Director’s Action Permit, and annually thereafter. Expansion, modification and/or
change of the use, not substantially in conformance with this permit, shall require
review and approval by the Community Development Department.
Page 28 of 43
Resolution No. PC-XXXX-23
Palm Street Safe Parking Program (DIR-0378-2023)
Page 5
4. The maximum number of vehicles allowed as part of the Safe Parking Program at
the subject location shall not exceed twenty (20) vehicles or ten (10) vehicles and
five (5) recreational vehicles (RVs). The layout of the Safe Parking Program at the
subject location shall be in substantial compliance with the approved site plan.
5. The hours of operation for the Safe Parking Program at the subject location shall be
limited to 7:00 pm to 7:00 am, check-in for the Program shall not occur any earlier
than 6:00 pm.
6. The Program Administrator shall implement the proposed Neighborhood Relations
Plan for the Safe Parking Program, as provided in Exhibit A. Any changes to the
Neighborhood Relations Plan shall be to the approval of the Community
Development Director.
7. The Program Administrator shall ensure that all participants acknowledge and sign
the Program Rules as provided in Exhibit B.
8. The Program Administrator shall implement the Overnight Monitoring Plan for the
Safe Parking Program, as provided in Exhibit C. Any changes to the Overnight
Monitoring Plan shall be to the approval of the Community Development Director.
9. The Program Administrator shall provide water, restrooms and trash facilities for
participant use from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am. Trash and restroom maintenance shall be
provided at least twice a week, or as otherwise stipulated by the Public Works
Director. Restrooms and trash facilities may be stored on site during the duration of
the program and shall be locked and secured from any public use outside of the
program operating hours, subject to the satisfaction of the Public Works Director.
10. The subject property shall be maintained in a clean and orderly manner at all times,
free of excessive leaves, branches, and other materials. The Program Administrator
shall be responsible for the clean-up of any landscape material in the public right-of-
way, subject to the satisfaction of the Public Works Director.
Engineering – Community Development/Public Works
11. A separate encroachment permit shall be obtained for the temporary closure of Palm
Street for the operation of the program. The parking plan shall include dimensions
for parking spaces and bay width in accordance with the City’s Parking & Driveway
Standards.
Transportation – Public Works
12. The Program Administrator shall comply with the Traffic Control Plan during all hours
of operation of the program at the subject location. All traffic control signage and
equipment shall be removed from the site and stored in a secure location outside of
the operating program hours, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Director.
Page 29 of 43
Resolution No. PC-XXXX-23
Palm Street Safe Parking Program (DIR-0378-2023)
Page 6
Fire Department
13. The encroachment permit shall identify emergency access routes for fire truck
access for the temporary street closure during the duration of the program, subject
to the satisfaction of the Fire Marshal. The applicant shall provide 10 days’ notice to
the Fire Marshal prior to the start of the program resulting in the temporary street
closure.
Indemnification
14. The applicant shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City and/or its agents,
officers and employees from any claim, action or proceeding against the City and/or
its agents, officers or employees to attack, set aside, void or annul, the approval by
the City of this project, and all actions relating thereto, including but not limited to
environmental review (“Indemnified Claims”). The City shall promptly notify the
applicant of any Indemnified Claim upon being presented with the Indemnified Claim
and the City shall fully cooperate in the defense against an Indemnified Claim.
On motion by Commissioner ___________, seconded by Commissioner
_____________, and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
REFRAIN:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this _______ day of _________, 2023.
__________________________
Tyler Corey, Secretary
Planning Commission
Page 30 of 43
COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
NEIGHBORHOOD RELATIONS PLAN
In order to mitigate potential impacts of the Safe Parking Program activities, Community Action
Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) will implement the following
processes/procedures:
A. CAPSLO will provide various methods in which the community may contact the
organization. During business hours (Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm) concerned
community members can contact the CAPSLO administrative office to communicate any
concerns they may have. After business hours, CAPSLO maintains a confidential hotline
that can accessed via telephone (805.549.6899) or email (hotline@capslo.org). These
contacts are posted on the CAPSLO website (under Contact Us). All concerns are given to,
and reviewed by, the Director of Community Programs, Chief Operating Officer (COO) or
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and are promptly (within 24 business hours) addressed.
B. All concerns or complaints will be documented, with copies given to the Director of
Community Programs, Director of Homeless Services, and the COO or CEO, who review,
contact the complainant and address the issue within 24 business hours.
C. All participants within the Safe Parking Program must initial and sign the Program Rules
which advises participants, in writing, of their obligation to comply with applicable laws
and established protocols which address and prevent repeated violation of laws, which have
adverse neighborhood or community impacts.
D. CAPSLO staff is provided with information pertaining to emergency contact procedures
during initial training. Police and/or Fire are always contacted in an emergency.
E. All host site facilities will undergo in-depth inspections by the facility staff, CAPSLO, and
the City of San Luis Obispo to determine program parameters and to identify any issues or
needs. CAPSLO will conduct a monthly walk-through of the facility to identify and
address all issues. . Emergency issues will be dealt with immediately. All other facility
maintenance needs will be addressed within 90 days.
F. The project site will provide a Monitoring and Oversight Plan to address security concerns
and ensure adequate outdoor lighting for the Safe Parking Program location.
G. Participants of the Safe Parking Program who are denied or suspended from the program
are provided with applicable resources and referrals for services offered within the City
and County.
H. CAPSLO will mail all property owners and tenants within a 300-foot radius their contact
information should any neighbor have concerns regarding the Safe Parking Program. In the
case any changes occur to the Safe Parking Program, neighboring property owners and
tenants within a 300-foot radius will be notified.
I. CAPSLO will meet whenever needed and requested by the City and/or other community
groups to review reports, issues and policies.
Page 31 of 43
Page 32 of 43
Page 1 of 2
V5. Current as of 8/28/23
Homeless Services Division – The City of San Luis Obispo Safe Parking Program
The City of San Luis Obispo Safe Parking Program (SLO-SPP) is a partnership between the Community Action Partnership of San Luis
Obispo (CAPSLO) and the City of San Luis Obispo (SLO). Only participants who have entered into a behavior contract with a social
service provider shall be allowed to use parking spaces overnight. By reviewing this document with CAPSLO staff and signing it, you
agree to abide by these program guidelines. You are welcome to a copy of this document at any point while accessing services here.
The behavior contract between the social service provider and the participant shall include, but not be limited to, the follo wing terms
and conditions:
1. Authorized Vehicles Only. Parking check-in is from 6 pm – 7 pm nightly. Only vehicles registered in the program shall be
allowed to park overnight during program hours. No detached trailers will be allowed. SLOPD may also drive through the
site between 7 pm and 7 am.
a. Only one vehicle is allowed per participant (case-by-case-exceptions to this must be approved by CAPSLO);
Vehicles may only be occupied by participants and approved registered household members; Vehicles must be
parked within a safe parking spot and not block the driving area of the lot or ta ke up multiple spots; Guests shall
not be allowed.
b. No cooking or food preparation shall be performed outside of the participants’ vehicles. Cooking inside vehicles is
prohibited unless the vehicle was manufactured with cooking appliances; Camping tarps or equipment beyond the
participants’ vehicles are prohibited.
2. Restroom, Trash & Water. Restrooms, a trash bin, and a hand washing station shall be provided, maintained, and accessible
to participants during safe parking facility hours. It is the responsibility of participants to remove all trash from their space
upon leaving. No trash shall be left in the parking lot or around vehicles.
a. Participants shall not dump sewage or other waste fluids or solids, deposit excreta outside a vehicle,
or park vehicles that leak excessive fluids (i.e., gasoline, transmission or radiator fluid, or engine oil).
3. Identification, Insurance, and Criminal Background. All participants must have auto registration and insurance within the
last 12 months. Participants must have a current form of ID, with priority given to in-city residents.
a. CAPSLO can assist with payment on insurance and registration and will provide a DMV discount form if the
participant is willing and eligible for case management services.
b. A 290/Megan's law check (Registered Sex Offender Registry) must be completed for all participants, this program
cannot accommodate participants with this criminal background status.
4. Safe Space. All participants are expected to maintain a safe and respectful environment.
a. Participants shall not use or possess any illegal drugs or alcohol on their person or in their vehicle; Participants
shall not use or possess any weapons or firearms of any kind in program vehicles; No fires of any kind shall be
allowed; No physical violence of any kind; No music may be played that is audible outside participants’ vehicles;
SLO City has a noise ordinance in effect beginning at 10 pm - you are beholden to that ordinance.
b. Participants shall maintain control of their animals. Animals shall be kept on a leash or lead at all times, and animal
waste shall be picked up immediately and disposed of properly.
c. Initials ___________
5. Animals. Participants shall maintain control of animals. Animals shall be kept on a leash or lead at all times, and animal
waste shall be picked up immediately and disposed of properly. Initials ___________
6. Good Neighbor Policy. All SLO-SPP participants must abide by our Good Neighbor Policy (GNP). GNP includes the following:
Vehicles shall maintain a minimum buffer of fifty feet from any property that contains residential use; All vehicles and
bicycles must be out of the neighborhood and not encamped (defined as a 1/2 mile radius from the SLO-SPP site) between
7 am - 6 pm; You, your vehicle, and your belongings must leave the area/neighborhood when you do; Do not park your
vehicle (of any type) or bicycle, on the property of any local busin ess (defined as a 1/2 mile radius from the SLO-SPP site).
Initials ___________
a. All SLO-SPP Participants must maintain safe, respectful, and courteous all neighbors, fellow SLO-SPP
participants, and CAPSLO staff/volunteers; they should expect this, in return, from all parties mentioned above.
Initials _______
7. Parker Information. CAPSLO shall maintain a roster of each parker authorized to park overnight. All participants will also be
offered to complete the Coordinated Entry Assessment to gather information about their current situation, enroll in Case
Management, and allow for referrals to appropriate agencies within the community.
Page 33 of 43
Page 2 of 2
V5. Current as of 8/28/23
8. Time limited Program: The CAPSLO safe parking program is a time-limited housing focused program, with an initial, 30-day
program enrollment.
a. All Safe Parking participants are initially enrolled in the Prado Homeless Services Center Safe Parking Program
b. After the initial 30 days, program participants can enter a more lengthy program (up to 90 days) to meet case
management expectations.
c. CAPSLO operates other safe parking sites throughout the community. Participants may be eligible or referred to
another site if that is a better fit for participant needs.
d. If, after 90 days, a participant has demonstrated they are unwilling to work with their assi gned case manager
towards realistic housing solutions, they will be exited from the program. After 90 -days, engaged participants will
receive 30-day extensions of their stay, regardless of site.
9. Case Management. All SLO-SPP participants automatically enrolled in housing-focused outreach case management (CM).
CAPSLO uses a client-centered approach to its CM and will work with participants on their goals to achieve more stable
housing. If participants are interested, outreach case managers will be available to transition participants to the Prado
Homeless Services Center (Prado HSC) Safe Parking Program (PSPP) for longer-term parking & more intensive CM. All
participants will be given information on community resources and encouraged to use the Prado HSC Access Center.
Participants can access services, including showers, laundry, meals, shelter beds, and CHCC primary care, provided they can
receive services at Prado HSC.
10. Emergencies. In cases of life-threatening emergencies, medical emergencies, or extreme circumstances, please call SLO PD
Emergency (911); If there is a crisis that does not amount to an emergency as outlined above (e.g., someone who is using
the parking lot that is being disruptive or is not registered with CAPSLO) call Non-Emergency SLOPD between 7 pm - 7 am:
805.781.7312. Please also follow up with CAPSLO staff/volunteers during check-in/out times. Initials ___________
11. Site Captain. In the spirit of the CAPSLO values of inclusion and self-sufficiency, this program is run in PARTNERSHIP with
participants and the unhoused community. CAPSLO designates a participant who has been consistent with their
enrollment, has shown initiative with their desire to enroll in case management, and has embodied the spirit of shared
respect and responsibility as the designated Site Captain. The Site Captain supports staff in maintaining the site, which
includes moving barricades, monitoring bathrooms and trash, and communicating with CAPSLO on any site issues. This
participant receives compensation for their efforts by CAPSLO and is a fully volunteer -based role in the program. The Site
Captain assignment may shift depending on CAPSLOs, the program’s, or the participant’s needs.
12. Rule Violations & Paneling. For violations of any of the site rules and guidelines, CAPSLO will issue you a Rule Notification
and record all incidents on site within the CAPSLO Database. CAPSLO may ask you to leave and submit a panel request for
reentry into SLO-SPP services if any of the following occur: Initials ___________
a. Repeatedly violating the guidelines and not taking corrective suggestions from staff.
b. Violence or threats towards staff, volunteers, neighbors, or other guests.
c. Breaking another guest's confidentiality.
d. Theft or destruction of property on-site or in the surrounding neighborhood; Acts of vandalism, disruptive
behavior, stealing, or violence to nearby businesses or residences.
e. Conducting a business out of the program site, legal or illegal.
f. Any other actions or behaviors have been deemed a threat to their safety and health or others.
I have read and agree to abide by the above agreement for CAPSLO - City of San Luis Obispo Safe Parking Program:
Safe Parker Name (Print): Date:
Safe Parker (Signature):
Staff Signature: Date:
Page 34 of 43
COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
MONITORING & OVERSIGHT PLAN
In order to mitigate potential impacts of the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program activities,
Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County (CAPSLO) will implement the
following processes/procedures:
A. CAPSLO staff will be on site during the check in and check out portions of the program,
and 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and 6:45 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. CAPSLO staff will perform the
following activities each night to ensure that the site has proper monitoring and oversite:
a. Conduct a safety assessment on all physical components of the site to ensure that
all materials are working.
b. CAPSLO staff, or designated CAPSLO volunteers, will facilitate the nightly check
in of all program participants and upload all registered participants into CAPSLO’s
internal database, Client Track.
c. Ensure that all participants on site are registered with CAPSLO in the Rotating
Overnight Safe Parking program. No on-site registration will be permitted.
d. Unlock the locked bathrooms and dumpsters.
e. CAPSLO staff, with the assistance of the participant site captain, will set up the
traffic control system, ensuring that they are fully erected by 7pm.
B. All participants within the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program must initial and sign
the Program Rules which advise participants, in writing, of their obligation to comply with
applicable laws and established protocols to address and prevent repeated violation of laws,
which have adverse neighborhood or community impacts.
C. In the spirit of the CAPSLO values of inclusion and self-sufficiency, this program is run
in partnership with participants and the unhoused community. CAPSLO designates a
participant who has been consistent with their enrollment, has shown initiative with their
desire to enroll in case management, and has embodied the spirit of shared respect and
responsibility as the designated Site Captain.
a. The Site Captain supports staff in maintaining the site, which includes moving
barricades, monitoring bathrooms and trash, and communicating with CAPSLO
on any site issues. This participant receives compensation for their efforts by
CAPSLO and is a fully volunteer-based role in the program. The Site Captain
assignment may shift depending on CAPSLOs, the program’s, or the participant’s
needs.
D. CAPSLO staff is provided with information pertaining to emergency contact procedures
during initial training. Police and/or Fire are always contacted in an emergency.
E. All host site facilities will undergo in-depth inspections by the facility staff, CAPSLO, and
the City of San Luis Obispo to determine program parameters and to identify any issues or
needs.
Page 35 of 43
a. CAPSLO will conduct a monthly walk-through of the facility to identify and
address all issues. Emergency issues will be dealt with immediately. All other
facility maintenance needs will be addressed within 90 days.
F. Security is addressed in a myriad of ways.
a. The site will have outdoor lighting to allow for vehicle identification and safe use
of the facilities.
b. Through partnership with SLOPD, the nightly program roster will be shared to
allow for SLOPD to address any unregistered parkers during the night.
c. All bathrooms and dumpsters will be locked when the program is not active –
between the hours of 7:00 am – 6:00 pm, daily.
d. CAPSLO staff will maintain contact with the designated Site Captain participant
during program hours.
e. The Site Captain will report to CAPSLO any unregistered vehicles or ot her rule
violations that occur at the site; CAPSLO will address issues on an individual basis
with program participants.
G. The program will be monitored based on performance metrics outlined by CAPSLO and
the City of SLO. The Director of Homeless Services and the Manager of Homeless
Services at CAPSLO will review weekly reports from program staff on the programmatic
and operational status of the program.
a. CAPSLO leadership, in partnership with the City of SLO, will make all needed
program modifications to uphold community and participant safety and wellbeing.
H. Participants of the Rotating Overnight Safe Parking Program who are denied or suspended
from the program are provided with applicable resources and referrals for services offered
within the City and County.
I. CAPSLO will mail all property owners and tenants within a 300-foot radius their contact
information should any neighbor have concerns regarding the Rotating Overnight Safe
Parking Program. If any changes occur to the program, neighboring property owners and
tenants within a 300-foot radius will be notified.
J. CAPSLO will meet whenever needed and requested by the City and/or other community
groups to review reports, issues, and policies.
a. CAPSLO will provide quarterly reports on site conditions and program activities to
the City of SLO.
b. CAPSLO will provide an annual program summary that is available to the public.
Page 36 of 43
Safe Parking Program Administrator Permit
1700 Palm Street
Program Description
A. Purpose and Intent. The Director’s Action Permit for the Safe Parking Facility at 1700
Palm Street will provide homeless households (individuals & families) with vehicles a
safe place to temporarily park overnight to help facilitate the transition to permanent
housing. This program is focused on serving individuals; families who need these
services will not be turned away but will be referred to more appropriate programming.
These standards and requirements are intended to ensure that safe parking facilities
will be compatible with surrounding uses and effective at facilitating participants’
transition to permanent housing.
B. Permit Required. The establishment of any safe parking site shall require a Director’s
Action Permit approval where allowed, consistent with Municipal Code Chapter 17.10,
Table 2-1: Uses Allowed by Zone.
C. Accessory Use in Residential Zones. The safe parking program is located within
the Tourist Commercial (C-T) zone, adjacent to a public assembly use known as the
Veteran’s Hall and located more than 100 feet from the nearest R-1 zone. Safe parking
is prohibited as a primary use in the R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4 zones and in all applicable
zones on properties that contain residential uses as the primary use.
D. Application Requirements. Whenever CAPSLO (or, a property owner who is
affiliated with CAPSLO) submits a Director’s Action Permit application for
consideration under the Safe Parking Program Administrator Permit, as a part of the
application, sufficient information shall be submitted to the Community Development
Department to determine whether the proposed safe parking facility comp lies with the
provisions of the Municipal Code Chapter 17.86 (Safe Parking Regulations). In
addition to the required Director’s Action Permit application checklist items, the
application will include the following:
1. Site plan indicating the location of trash and recycling facilities, water, restroom
facilities, exterior light fixtures, location and distances to residential properties,
public transportation, and location of designated overnight parking spaces.
2. Hours of operation.
3. Monitoring and Oversight Plan.
4. Neighborhood Relations Plan.
5. Sufficient information to determine that the property owner is affiliated with
CAPSLO to manage the site and meet the performance standards identified in
Safe Parking Regulations.
6. Any other information the Director may determine is necessary to ensure
compliance with the provisions of the Safe Parking Regulations.
Page 37 of 43
E. Performance Standards.
1. Social Services Provider. CAPSLO has been funded by the City and County to
provide homeless day and sheltering services for approximate ly 20 years. In
addition, CAPSLO has provided case management services to homeless
individuals and families for over 10 years.
2. Case Management. CAPSLO will ensure that all Safe Parking Program
participants are required to be enrolled in case management to facilitate the
transition to more permanent housing.
3. Background Check. CAPSLO will ensure that all Safe Parking Program
participants are required to submit to a background check (see CAPSLO Safe
Parking Program Screening form).
4. Restroom, Water and Trash Facilities. CAPSLO in partnership with the City of
San Luis Obispo will ensure that restrooms, water, and trash facilities will be
provided for evening use, and that regular trash and restroom maintenance is
provided.
5. Residency Preference. CAPSLO will ensure that preference is given to local
residents (with proof of residency in the County for a minimum period of six months
within the last two years). Residency preferences will be verified during the case
management intake process.
6. Buffer from Residential Use. CAPSLO will ensure that the safe parking facilities
are located at least 50 feet from the nearest property which contains residential
uses.
7. Authorized Vehicles Only. CAPSLO will ensure that only vehicles registered in
the program are parked overnight during the program hours (one vehicle per
program participant at the site).
8. Participant Information. CAPSLO will maintain an updated roster of names and
vehicle numbers of all participants who are authorized to park overnight, the roster
will be located at the CAPSLO offices located at Prado Homeless Services Center.
9. Written Agreement with Participants. Only participants who have entered into a
written agreement with CAPSLO shall be allowed to use parking spaces overnight.
The written agreement between CAPSLO and participants shall include, but not
limited to, the following terms and conditions:
a. Only one vehicle is allowed per participant, exceptions to this may be
authorized by CAPSLO on a case-by-case basis.
b. At least one participant per vehicle shall possess a current driver’s license,
vehicle registration, and insurance for the vehicle that will be parked overnight.
CAPSLO will keep a copy of all three on record.
c. Vehicles may only be occupied by participants and approved registered
household members. Guests shall not be allowed.
Page 38 of 43
d. Participants shall not use or possess any illegal drugs or alcohol either on their
person or in their vehicle.
e. Participants shall not use or possess any weapons or firearms of any kind in
program vehicles.
f. No fires of any kind shall be allowed.
g. No music may be played that is audible outside participants’ vehicles.
h. No cooking or food preparation shall be performed outside of the participants’
vehicles. Cooking inside vehicles is prohibited unless the vehicle was
manufactured with cooking appliances.
i. Camping tarps or equipment beyond the participant’s vehicle are prohibited.
j. Participants shall maintain control of animals. Animals shall be kept on a leash
at all times and animal waste shall be picked up immediately and disposed of
properly.
k. Participants shall not dump sewage or other waste fluids or solids, deposit
excreta outside a vehicle, or park vehicles that leak excessive fluids (i.e.,
gasoline, transmission or radiator fluid, or engine oil).
F. Director’s Action Permit Considerations. Items to be determined by the Community
Development Director as part of each Director’s Action Permit review process on a
case-by-case basis shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Number of Vehicles Allowed. The total number of vehicles allowed at each safe
parking facility location. CAPSLO is proposing that the maximum number of
vehicles allowed as part of the Safe Parking Program at the subject location shall
not exceed twenty (20) vehicles or ten (10) vehicles and five (5) recreational
vehicles (RVs).
2. Hours of Operation. The days and hours of safe parking facility operation.
CAPSLO is proposing that the hours of operation for the Safe Parking Program at the
subject location shall be limited to 7:00 pm to 7:00 am, check-in for the Program shall not
occur any earlier than 6:00 pm.
3. Separation between Facilities. Sufficient distance between existing residential
properties and proposed safe parking facilities. CAPSLO has ensured that the
program boundaries provide approximately 100-foot buffer from the closest
residential property, where only 50-feet is normally required.
4. Neighborhood Relations Plan. A Neighborhood Relations Plan has been
provided to address any complaints in a timely manner, including consistency with
any adopted good neighbor policy.
5. Monitoring and Oversight. A Monitoring and Oversight Plan has been provided
that outlines the security measures of the program at the subject location .
6. Restroom, Water and Trash Facility Plan. CAPSLO in partnership with the City
of San Luis Obispo will ensure that water, restrooms and trash facilities are made
available for participant use between the hours of 7:00 pm to 7:00 am. Trash and
Page 39 of 43
restroom maintenance will be provided at least twice a week. Restrooms and trash
facilities will be stored on site during the duration of the program and will be locked
and secured from any public use outside of the program operating hours.
G. Revocation of a Permit. CAPSLO acknowledges that the Director Action Permit can
be referred to the Planning Commission for reconsideration if determined by the
Director upon receipt of substantiated written complaints from any citizen, Code
Enforcement Officer, or Police Department Officer, which includes information and/or
evidence supporting a conclusion that a violation of the Conditional Use Permit, or of
City ordinances or regulations applicable to the property or operation of the facility,
has occurred. At the time of review, to ensure compliance with applicable laws and
conditions of Director’s Action Permit, conditions of approval may be added, deleted,
modified, or the Director’s Action Permit may be revoked.
Page 40 of 43
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Page 42 of 43
FOR ISSUES RELATED TO ILLICIT OR THREATENING ACTIVITY
Please call 911
FOR ISSUES RELATED TO TRESPASS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
Please file a PC 602 Form and/or call SLO Police Department for enforcement
FOR ISSUES RELATED TO MENTAL HEALTH & SKILLED OUTREACH
Please call non-emergency dispatch (805) 781-7312 to request one of the following units:
Mobile Crisis Unit – EMT and Case Worker
Community Action Team – Police Officer and Case Worker
FOR ISSUES AT THE SAFE PARKING SITE DURING PROGRAM HOURS 7PM – 7AM
Please call Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo (CAPSLO)
M-F 9am-5pm: (805) 544-4004
Weekends & After Hours: (805) 549-6899
FOR ISSUES RELATED TO PARKING ENFORCEMENT/OVERSTAY AT THE SAFE PARKING
Please call SLO City Parking Enforcement: (805) 781-7230
FOR ISSUES RELATED TO DUMPSTER/PORTA POTTY MAINTENANCE AT THE SAFE PARKING
SITE
Please call SLO City Homelessness Response Manager, Daisy Wiberg:
Email: dwiberg@slocity.org; or safeparking@slocity.org
Phone: (805) 781-7025
FOR CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE RESOURCES
Please visit slocity.org/homelessness for more information on resources and City efforts to
prevent and address homelessness.
FOR ALL OTHER HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE ISSUES OR QUESTIONS
Contact Daisy Wiberg, Homelessness Response Manager, with any additional questions or
concerns:
Email: dwiberg@slocity.org; or safeparking@slocity.org
Phone: (805) 781-7025
Page 43 of 43