HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/7/2024 Item 8a, Jackson and Kuhn - Staff Agenda CorrespondenceCity of San Luis Obispo, Council Memorandum
City of San Luis Obispo
Council Agenda Correspondence
DATE: May 6, 2024
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Emily Jackson, Finance Director
Prepared By: Riley Kuhn, Principal Budget Analyst
VIA: Whitney McDonald, Interim City Manager
SUBJECT: ITEM 8A - FY 2023-24 Q3 BUDGET REPORT AND SUPPLEMENT
PREVIEW
The purpose of this agenda correspondence is to update Attachment A - FY 2023-24 Q3
Budget Report. After publishing of the agenda, it was discovered that Attachment A did
not include information on housing work program items as requested by Council on March
5, 2024. A matrix of short-, medium- and long-term housing opportunity work plan items
has been prepared by the Community Development Department and has been added to
Attachment A- FY 2023-24 Q3 Budget Report. This replaces the attachment that was
initially published with Item 8a.
ATTACHMENT
Updated Attachment A - FY 2023-24 Q3 Budget Report
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 1
Third Quarter Financial Report
Fiscal Year 2023-24
Introduction
This financial report provides an overview of the City’s financial position through the third quarter of Fiscal
Year 2023-24 (July 1, 2023 - March 31, 2024) for the General Fund and the four enterprise operating funds.
It also provides an update on the status of the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects and progress
on Major City Goals. Notable milestones or trends within the third quarter are addressed and detailed
throughout the document. The report is broken down into the following sections:
General Fund Update
As of March 31, 2024, operating expenditures and revenues are on target with past years’ third quarters.
1
1 General Fund Update/
Storm Expenditure Update
2 Enterprise Funds
Update
3 Major City Goal
Update
4 Capital Improvement
Plan Update
5 Outlook and
Conclusion
$82 Million in
Revenues
(YTD)
$70 Million in
OpEx (YTD)
3 MCG Tasks
Completed in
Q3
23 CIP
Projects
Completed
through Q3
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 2
Table 1. General Fund Revenue
Sales and Use Tax (including Measure G): At the end of March 2024, about 70% of the City’s forecasted
sales tax revenue for this fiscal year had been collected; this is generally consistent with prior years due
to the timing of disbursements from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).
The actuals noted above include sales taxes earned July 2023 through February 2024.
Property Tax: The City receives most of its property tax revenue in the 3rd and 4th quarters of the fiscal
year and the variable timing explains why current year receipts appear lower than last fiscal year. The
County recently sent the City updated property tax estimates that are roughly in line with the mid-year
budget. As a reminder, the City participates in the “teeter” system for property tax meaning that
disbursements are generally provided two times a year and the City foregoes any potential delinquency
fees in exchange for the County advancing all due applicable property taxes (meaning that property tax
receipts should always meet budget).
Safety Prop 172: Year to date, revenue as a percent of budget is in line with general sales tax and with
expectations. The year over year variance is driven by timing of receipts.
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT): TOT revenue follows strong seasonal trends and can be highly volatile
based on factors like weather, local events, and consumer spending. Year to date revenue is lower than
the prior year as March receipts have not been recorded and several payments from February are still
outstanding. Staff expect to collect all payments and TOT revenue is broadly on track to meet current year
projections.
Utility User Tax (UUT): UUT revenue is trending about 11% lower than last fiscal year due to the timing
of receipts. Staff expect this revenue stream to finish on budget and will continue to monitor over the
next several months.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 3
Business Tax: The City collects business taxes at the beginning of the fiscal year in amounts based on the
gross receipts of the previous calendar year. Business Tax should have been entirely collected at this point
in the fiscal year, but there are several delinquent filings. Staff have issued citations and are working to
collect this revenue.
Cannabis Tax: Cannabis tax revenue has stayed very consistent at $1.1m annually since the second retail
location opened in April 2021. Revenue is expected to finish on budget at $1.1m again this year.
Franchise Fees: These are fees on privately owned utility companies and other businesses that use the
City's infrastructure to run their businesses. Year to date revenue is down year over year driven by timing
of receipts. Staff expect this revenue stream to finish on budget and will continue to monitor over the
next several months.
Gas Taxes: Both the Highway User Tax (line 10) and the SB1 Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation
Apportionment (line 11) are tracking as expected. The budget for FY 2023-24 is based on information
provided by the State. This revenue is based upon a fee per gallon of gas and is not based on gas prices.
Development Review: Revenues are broadly in line with budget for the current year. However, large
projects with high fees have a significant impact on total revenue collection, so an abnormal fourth
quarter could shift the overall outlook.
Parks & Recreation: Parks and Recreation saw a 15% increase in year-to-date revenue compared to FY
2022-23. This was primarily driven by storm related closures in the prior year.
Other Departmental Revenue (Police & Fire): Police and Fire department revenue are broadly on track
with projections.
Grants and Subventions: Grant revenues fluctuate from year-to-year based on availability and award
success. In many cases, this revenue helps offset expenditures and is not budgeted for. Year to date
revenues are up primarily due to mutual aid for the fire department.
Business and Cannabis Licenses: Business license fees are on track with projections. Business licenses are
renewed at the beginning of the fiscal year; therefore, 100% of budgeted revenue for the year has already
been collected.
Other Revenue: This budget is intentionally conservative as it includes adjustments to the fair market
value of the City’s financial assets which are driven by market projections of future interest rates and have
proven highly volatile. Interest from the city’s investments is the single largest revenue stream in this line
item and is well above budget year to date. This line also includes positive fair market value adjustments
which are expected to be reversed at year-end based on recent market developments.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 4
General Fund Expenditures
The tables below include year-to-date consumption for FY 2023-24 compared to budget. The “Total
Expenditures & Obligations” column includes both costs that have already been incurred and costs that
are obligated on purchase orders.
Table 2. Expenditures by Type
There are no significant variances in the General Fund. The PERS Unfunded Liability expenditure is paid
upfront to take advantage of a prepayment discount. It is expected that contract services and other
operating expenses are more than 75% consumed because annual purchase orders are set up at the
beginning of the year and the funds are considered “Obligated” from that point forward. Salaries and
benefits should track at a consistent level and at this point in the year, it would be normal to expect about
70-75% of the budget to be expended. The year-to-date actuals indicate there is about 4% salary savings,
more than the forecast assumption of 3%.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 5
Table 3. Expenditures by Department
As of the third quarter, there are no significant variances in the General Fund departments. Public Safety
departments are trending high because the approved equity adjustment parameters for SLOPSOA and
Fire employees were not distributed throughout the individual departments but instead budgeted for
within “non-departmental” – this will balance out at year end.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 6
An Update on Storm Expenditures
As noted in prior budget reports, the winter storms in January and March 2023 caused significant damage
to City infrastructure and resulted in emergency declarations at the Federal and State level, in addition to
the Emergency Services Director’s local emergency proclamation. The City Council authorized use of up
to $9 million from the City’s operating reserve in FY 2022-23 and FY 2023-24 to address unbudgeted storm
costs, and with adoption of the 2023-25 Financial Plan, the City Council also approved allocation of $2.75
million in the CIP to fund projects to repair storm damages and mitigate against future damage. The
Federal and State declarations enable the City to seek reimbursement for certain storm related costs. The
maximum reimbursement for eligible costs is 93.75% (75% from the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) and 18.75% from the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES)), meaning that the
City will pay a minimum of 6.25% for certain storm related costs. The FEMA reimbursement process has
moved slowly due to turnover in the FEMA Program Delivery Managers assigned to assist local agencies
in submitting projects for reimbursement and a lack of clarity about the information required in order to
submit projects. Based upon information provided by Ernst and Young (EY) (the City’s consultant hired to
provide disaster recovery technical assistance), staff expects that reimbursement will be received
approximately 12 months following formal submittal of projects to FEMA. The timing of reimbursement
is being closely tracked, as the City’s ability to pay back the operating reserve and fund future storm-
related projects is dependent on receiving reimbursement for incurred storm costs.
The City has expended approximately $12.5 million on storm response to date, including debris removal,
emergency protective measures, and projects to make permanent repairs to damaged facilities. As noted
in prior updates, storm related cost estimates continue to shift as projects are scoped, designed and
completed. Currently, the total storm costs are estimated at $35.2 million, slightly down from what was
reported in the First Quarter Financial Report. Total costs reflect efforts to not only repair storm damage,
but to mitigate against future damage brought on by a potential El Niño year or subsequent storm events.
In order to move quickly to address storm damages, staff continues to use streamlined procurement
processes, including the authorization of construction contracts and change orders by the City Manager
where necessary and allowable to expedite work in order to protect community health and safety. As of
the writing of this report, $9.3 million worth of storm-related expenditures have been submitted to FEMA
for reimbursement, including the City’s largest project to repair and stabilize the creek bank at San Luis
Drive. Staff continue to work to prioritize the repairs and identify which projects will be eligible for the
highest reimbursement.
Table 4. Storm Response Project Status
Row # Projects by Phase Percentage Complete
1 Design 17%
2 Nipomo Bridge over Stenner Creek 10%
3
Remove damaged revetment and install new revetment
upstream and downstream of bridge. Revetment was
undermined during storm event. 10%
4 Prefumo Creek Grade Structure 18%
5
Phase I - Remove damaged grade control structure and install
RSP roughened ramp. 25%
6 Phase II - Install new sewer siphon. Sewer siphon relocation. 10%
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 7
7 Prefumo through Golf Course 20%
8 Phase 1 - Install City Owned Ped bridge 50%
9 Phase 2 - Install creek bank revetment in golf course 5%
10 Phase 3 - Stabilize creek banks upstream of golf course 5%
11 SLO Creek at Elks Lodge 15%
12
Phase 1 - Install RSP on East Side (Elks Side) - armor
embankment due to Caltrans revetment 25%
13
Phase 2 - Install creek bank revetment on Elks Lodge side
downstream of Elks Lodge 25%
14
Phase 3 - Install soil nail wall on Hwy 101 side of SL Creek
near Elks Lodge 5%
15 Phase 4 - Armor bridge abutments at Elks Lane and SL Creek 5%
16 SLO Creek at Mission Plaza 25%
17 Remove and install structural sidewalk 25%
18 Complete 100%
19 Lower Marsh Street Bridge Debris Removal 100%
20
Remove vegetative debris and rock materials downstream
and below the Marsh Street Bridge at US 101. 100%
21 Old Garden Creek - 141 Cuesta 100%
22 Remove and replace creek retaining wall 100%
23 Old Garden Creek - 533 Broad 100%
24 Remove RSP and install new RSP + Soil Nail wall 100%
25 Pismo / Johnson Creek Bank Repair 100%
26
Remove revetment and install soil nail wall. Reimbursement
for mitigation work has a high likelihood. 100%
27 Prefumo Clearing (LOVR to Laguna) 100%
28 Phase 1 - Remove debris near LOVR to Mariner's Cove 100%
29
Phase 2 - Remove debris removal from Mariner's Cove to
Laguna Lake 100%
30 Phase 3 - Culvert Repair 100%
31 San Luis Drive at SLO Creek 100%
32 Install soldier pile wall 100%
33 Old Garden Creek - 152 Cuesta 100%
34 Repair lined portion of Old Garden Creek 100%
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 8
Enterprise Fund Update
Utilities: Water and Sewer Funds
The tables below include third quarter actuals for FY 2023-24 compared to the budget. The “Total
Expenditures & Obligations” column on the expenditure table includes both costs that have already been
incurred and costs that are obligated on purchase orders.
Table 5. Utilities Revenue
Revenue: Due to the timing of utility billing, the amounts above reflect eight months of charges for
services revenue (i.e. base charges, water sales, sewer services, recycled water sales, etc.) or about 66%
of the fiscal year. Relative to projected revenues for fiscal year 2023-24, charges for services are at
$31,534,000.00 or 68% of what was budgeted and are on track to meet expected revenues. Year-over-
year charges for services reflect about a $1,800,000 or 6% increase and are consistent with the rate
increases approved by R-11427 and R-11428. The remaining actual and budgeted revenues are generally
lumpy or comprise a very small percentage of expected revenues. An example of lumpy revenue is the Cal
OES Grants for flood mitigation infrastructure at the WRRF ($1,500,000 budgeted). Examples of other
expected, but smaller revenues include interest on investments, various permits, and sales of surplus
assets.
2
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 9
Table 6. Utilities Expenditures
Expenditures: Currently, there is one significant variance in utilities expenditures to highlight. The
Contract Services budget for the Sewer Fund is currently $862,000 or 67% overbudget. This overspend is
a result of Water Resource Recycling Facility (WRRF) emergency expenses due to construction sequencing
constraints and mercury remediation. In short, residual mercury was encountered during the demolition
of a legacy wastewater treatment system that required unexpected expenditures to address, and
sequencing constraints at the facility resulted in solids accumulation beyond the WRRF’s processing
capacities, which created odors that required additional remediation. Staff obtained Council authorization
to add budget for these expenses from Sewer Fund Undesignated Capital (Completed Projects) via R-
11487. Once these approved changes are implemented, the variance will be addressed. Staff continue to
monitor Other Operating Expenses and Utilities accounts due to highly volatile inflation in electric service
and chemical costs. Staff foresee being able to cover any overages in these accounts with underspend in
other accounts. It is normal and expected that contract services and other operating expenses track above
75% because annual purchase orders are set up at the beginning of the year and the funds are considered
“Obligated” from that point forward. Staffing should track at a consistent level and the actuals seen above
are due to staffing vacancies and subsequent savings during staffing transitions.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 10
Parking Fund
The tables below include third quarter actuals for FY 2023-24 compared to budget.
Table 7. Parking Revenue
Revenue: Revenue from on-street and surface parking lot areas is tracking higher than budgeted which is
likely due to conservative forecasts for the rate increases that took effect July 1, 2023. Revenue from
citation payments is also tracking higher than budgeted. Enforcement related revenue is difficult to
accurately forecast because it is reliant on individuals to violate state and local laws and for an officer to
be present to issue a citation for said violation. Revenue from investments is also tracking higher than
budgeted because it is unknown at the time the budget is adopted what rate of return the City will realize.
Parking structure revenue is tracking low even after being adjusted at Mid-Year to account for the
reestablishment of first hour free program and establishing free Sunday parking in the structures, as
approved by Council in November 2023. Recent occupancy studies conducted as part of the Parking Rate
Study revealed lower than typical utilization of the parking structures which may be contributing to the
lower than anticipated revenue. A rate study is underway and expected to be presented to the City Council
in May 2024 to consider potential adjustments to parking rates and other operational modifications,
which may alter future fiscal year revenue projections.
Table 8. Parking Expenditures
Expenditures: Contract Services and Other Operating Expenditures are tracking higher than budget mostly
due to increased adoption of mobile payment among users. There have been over 200,000 mobile
application (app) transactions (all credit card based) in the first eight months of FY 2023-24, in which the
City incurs credit card merchant fees. In addition, credit card payments represent over 90% of revenue
collected at the pay stations and at the parking meters. At Mid-Year budget review, the credit card
merchant fees budget was increased from $205,590 to $390,590 to account for continued and significant
digital payment adoption. However, through the first eight months of FY 2023-24, credit card merchant
fees were averaging $45,170 per month with a projected year-end of $542,000. Additionally, execution of
the Parking Communications Plan has required more resources than originally budgeted , as well have
expenditures for out-of-warranty repairs to pay stations and charging stations, regulatory signs and
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 11
signposts for new enforcement areas, and maintenance equipment for the parking structures. These
actual costs have been reflected in adjustments to the FY 2024-25 budget that will be presented as part
of Budget Supplement.
Transit Fund
The tables below include third quarter actuals for FY 2023-24 compared to Budget. The “Actuals” column
includes both costs that have already been incurred and costs that are obligated on purchase orders.
Table 9. Transit Revenue
Revenue: The Transit program saw a modest year over year decline in transit fare revenue. Fare revenue
is vital to secure State Transit Development Act (TDA) funds which require 20 percent of the programs’
operating budget be generated from local revenue (fares, bus passes, and payment from Cal Poly). Most
State and Federal revenue is directly tied to capital projects and will not be realized until projects are
either initiated or completed and reimbursement requests are submitted. Other Revenue includes
interest on investments which is difficult to predict, so revenue from interest is typically conservatively
forecasted. At this time, the Transit Fund is tracking as expected for its annual revenues.
Table 10. Transit Expenditures
Expenditures: Salaries and Benefits are trending lower than budget due to reallocation of Mobility
Services positions between funds to better align with the workloads of those roles. Other Operating
Expenditures is trending low mainly due to the contract for Purchased Transportation services. The City
anticipated returning to pre-pandemic levels of service but difficulty hiring and retaining drivers has
delayed this effort.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 12
Major City Goal (MCG) Update
Three 2023-25 Major City Goals have been completed in FY 2023-24 Q3. The table below highlights the
MCGs that were expected to be completed in the current quarter.
Table 11: Major City Goal Tasks with Completion Dates in FY 2023-24 Q3
3
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 13
At the March 5, 2024 City Council meeting, the Council requested a summary matrix from staff
that outlines what the next steps are in terms of short-, medium- and long-term work plan items
related to housing needs and opportunities (City Council Agenda Item 8A). This matrix modifies
study session “Attachment F – Summary of Future Potential Housing Opportunities” to include
both current work efforts underway as well as potential future programs for each portion of the
housing continuum for the benefit of further stakeholder engagement.
The matrix is organized into three sections: Short-term existing work program items, medium-
term existing work program items, and long-term potential future work program items. The
short- and medium- term existing work program items are efforts that are already in the City’s
work program or have been added by staff because they are required by state law or are efforts
related to the regular course of work of the housing staff. The last section, long-term potential
work program items, are efforts that are not on any work plan at this time but are included for
Council’s consideration for inclusion in future budgets and work programs if desired. Most of
these ideas were presented in the staff report on the March 5, 2024, however, some additional
ideas that were raised by the public or City Council are also included.
Table 12: Housing work program update
FISCAL BUDGET
CYCLE
PROJECT OR
PROGRAM
HOUSING CONTINUUM
COMMENTS
STAFF RESOUCE
LEVEL AND TIMING
A. SHORT-TERM EXISTING WORK PROGRAM ITEMS
1. Comply or Leverage New or Recent State Laws
New
2023-25
Required per
state law
Create program for
pre-approved ADU
plans
MARKET RATE and BELOW MARKET
RATE (BMR)
State law AB 1332 Carillo required
by January 1, 2025.
Low: can include in
exis�ng work
program without
addi�onal funding
New
2023-25
Required per
state law
Zoning Regula�ons
update
MARKET RATE
State law implementa�on of minor
amendments for small lot
ministerial approvals in MF zoned
areas per SB684, ADUs and Density
Bonus (AB1287)
Medium: can
include in exis�ng
work program
without addi�onal
funding
2. Specific Plan or Area Amendments
2023-25 Margarita Area
Specific Plan Update
MARKET and BMR
RFP has been approved and issued.
Medium - Funded,
RFP underway
2023-25 Airport Area Specific
Plan Update
MARKET RATE and BMR where now
allowable under SLO CO Airport
Land Use Plan
Medium – Funded
(Developer)
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 14
FISCAL BUDGET
CYCLE
PROJECT OR
PROGRAM
HOUSING CONTINUUM
COMMENTS
STAFF RESOUCE
LEVEL AND TIMING
3. Other Incen�ves for Housing Con�nuum
2023-25 Update Impact Fee
Deferrals
BMR
Tenta�vely scheduled for Spring
2024 to give clarity for applicability
and process and develop guidelines
for what fees are eligible to defer
and for how long
Low: underway
2023-25 Council memo on
renter protec�on
op�ons
MARKET RATE
Memo scheduled for Spring 2024
Low to Medium
underway
2023-25 Fund and collaborate
with suppor�ve
housing partners
including HASLO,
TMHA and PSHH to
develop addi�onal
units
BMR/PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE
HOUSING (PSH)/TRANSITIONAL
Ex. Calle Joaquin Homekey
Ex. SLO County Welcome Home
Village
Ex. Developer Applica�ons:
Monterey Senior Housing/THMA
Palm Street Studios/Waterman
Village
High:
Ongoing effort
2023-25 Support 12-parking
space expansion of
overnight safe parking
through 40 Prado HSC
rota�ng safe parking
program.
EMERGENCY SHELTER
Expansion of exis�ng 40 Prado HSC
overnight safe parking to include
addi�onal 12 spaces at rota�ng
sites at City property and faith-
based partner sites; program
funding needed
Medium:
In progress,
implementa�on
summer/fall 2024
2023-25 RFP BMR
Administra�on
BMR
New RFP for BMR Administra�on to
allow efficient processes and BMR
agreements
Low to medium:
Expected to release
RFP summer 2024
2023-25 Homelessness
Response Strategic
Plan Update
TRANSITIONAL and EMERGENCY
SHELTER
Update and con�nued
implementa�on
High:
Ongoing effort;
update at City
Council May 21,
2024
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 15
FISCAL BUDGET
CYCLE
PROJECT OR
PROGRAM
HOUSING CONTINUUM
COMMENTS
STAFF RESOUCE
LEVEL AND TIMING
B. MEDIUM-TERM EXISTING WORK PROGRAM ITEMS
1. Comply or Leverage New or Recent State Laws
New/ unfunded
2023-25
Required per
state law
Update Objec�ve
Design standards
MARKET RATE
Update needed to beter address
design needs for smaller scale
developments subject to ministerial
review through new state law [SB 9
HOME Act (Atkins); SB 424;
(Wiener); SB 4 (Wiener); SB 684
(Caballero)]
High:
An�cipated to take
< 1 year to
complete
2. Specific Plan or Area Amendments
2023-25 Upper Monterey
Special Focus Area –
Outreach and
Engagement
MARKET RATE (primarily)
Add integra�on of addi�onal
housing op�ons with mixed-use
and commercial place-making
economic ini�a�ve
Medium
An�cipated to take
1 – 2 years to
compl
3. Other Incen�ves for Housing Con�nuum
2023-25
unfunded
Develop
Downpayment
Assistance Program
BMR
may use future Prohousing
Incen�ve Funds; may seek other
state funding sources; May include
other expanded funding for BMR
housing
Medium:
An�cipated to take
less than one year
to develop
New
2023-25
Support CAPSLO 46
Prado non-congregate
Family Shelter project
EMERGENCY SHELTER
CAPSLO purchased property for 40
Prado Homeless Services campus
expansion for families and poten�al
addi�onal Permanent Suppor�ve
Housing
Medium:
An�cipated to take
between one
1 – 2 years
2023-25
Pre-approve ADU
plans for City use that
are currently available
through SLO County
MARKET RATE and BMR
Allows addi�onal pre-approved
ADU plans for applicant selec�on
Low:
An�cipated to take
less than 1 year
2023-25
unfunded
Parking Standards
Update
MARKET RATE
A project plan and Scope of work
have been prepared for study to
support housing produc�on. If
funded an RFP will be issued.(Note:
addi�onal parking reduc�ons
Medium:
An�cipated to take
approximately 1
year
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 16
FISCAL BUDGET
CYCLE
PROJECT OR
PROGRAM
HOUSING CONTINUUM
COMMENTS
STAFF RESOUCE
LEVEL AND TIMING
already exist per state law for BMR
units.)
2023-25 Pursue grant funds
and collaborate with
service providers to
Support Resiliency
Strategic Plan for 40
Prado HSC
development more
beds
TRANSITIONAL AND EMERGENCY
SHELTER
(opportunity for new round
Encampment Resolu�on Funds or
other State funds)
Medium:
An�cipated to take
about 1 year
2023-25 Apply for addi�onal
Prohousing Incen�ve
Program (PIP) funds
and other state funds
BMR
Round 2 applica�on submited
(addi�onal NOFA’s expected in the
future) may include downpayment
assistance
Low: An�cipated to
take 1 year
2023-25 Support BMR housing
on City property – Ex.
Waterman Village
BMR
Waterman Village project under
review; need inventory of future
possible sites
Low: An�cipated to
take less than
1 yr
C. LONG-TERM POTENIAL FUTURE WORK PROGAM ITEMS
1. Comply or Leverage New or Recent State Laws
Future Zoning amendments
for addi�onal projects
to receive ministerial
review
MARKET and BMR
poten�al implementa�on SB 10
(Wiener) for arterial corridors in
areas with services specific to
missing middle typologies; may also
include small modular-units homes
or mobile homes in areas that
cannot support height/density or
permanent founda�ons; an�cipate
further state legisla�on
High: An�cipated
to take 1-2 years
2. Specific Plan Amendments
Future Update Upper
Monterey planning
area
MARKET RATE (primarily)
Build upon outreach planned in
2023-2025 to integrate addi�onal
housing op�ons with mixed-use
and commercial place-making
economic ini�a�ve
High: An�cipated
to take between 1
and 3 years
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 17
FISCAL BUDGET
CYCLE
PROJECT OR
PROGRAM
HOUSING CONTINUUM
COMMENTS
STAFF RESOUCE
LEVEL AND TIMING
Future Mid-Higuera Planning
area
MARKET RATE (primarily)
Develop and integrate zoning and
other incen�ves to allow new
housing op�ons
High: An�cipated
to take between 1
and 3 years
3. Other Incen�ves for Housing Con�nuum
Future Pre-approved plans –
“missing middle”
typologies
MARKET RATE
Develop pre-reviewed designs to
incen�vize missing middle housing
for specific neighborhoods
High: An�cipated
to take 1-2 years
Future Customized Pre-
approved ADU plans
designs specific to SLO
neighborhoods
MARKET RATE and BMR
Resource need based on number of
plans to provide as pre-approved.
Low to medium:
An�cipated to take
approximately 1
year
Future
Allow addi�onal
incen�ves through
zoning amendments in
limited areas to allow
more density or
missing middle
housing
MARKET RATE
Addi�onal incen�ves for downtown
may be addi�onal height or
modifica�on of setbacks; expand
applicable area for flexible density;
expand areas for mul�-family
development
High: An�cipated
to take between 1
and 3 years
Future Develop sustainable
funding for BMR
housing
BMR
Par�cipate in state tax exempt
bond programs to help increase the
supply of BMR rental units; or local
revenue measure
Medium to high:
An�cipated to take
between
1 and 3 years
Future Develop incen�ves for
property owners for
SB 4 (Wiener) housing
development (housing
allowed ministerially
on property owned by
religious
organiza�ons)
BMR – Transi�onal
Addi�onal guidelines or incen�ves
for BMR/Transi�onal housing with
faith-based partners and local
service providers
Medium:
An�cipated to
take1 to 2 years
Future Financial incen�ves for
housing developers –
low interest loans
MARKET RATE and BMR
Develop incen�ves for developers
of specific types of housing, ex.
missing middle. Explore a low
interest loan program
Medium to high:
An�cipated to take
between
1 and 3 years
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 18
FISCAL BUDGET
CYCLE
PROJECT OR
PROGRAM
HOUSING CONTINUUM
COMMENTS
STAFF RESOUCE
LEVEL AND TIMING
Future Incen�ves for housing
atainable to
households earning
120%-200% Average
Medium Income
MARKET RATE
Develop incen�ves for residen�al
construc�on, rehabilita�on or
ownership programs to increase
opportuni�es for households
earning 120-200% AMI
Medium to high:
An�cipated to take
between
1 and 3 years
Future Remove zoning
requirement for
mixed-use for 100%
BMR housing project
where applicable
BMR
Remove requirement for projects in
Mixed-use districts to require
commercial components that and
that create barriers for
development of 100% BMR
residen�al projects
Low to medium:
An�cipated to take
approximately one
year
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 19
CIP Update – Completed and Ongoing
Over the past year, the City's Capital Improvement Program (CIP) has achieved significant milestones,
demonstrating the City’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and addressing community needs.
Notable accomplishments in the third quarter of FY 2023-24 include the following:
Prado Road Interchange: The Prado Road Interchange Project in San Luis Obispo is a legacy Capital
Improvement Project (CIP) that plays a crucial role in the City's infrastructure development. This project
constructs a bridge over US 101, connecting Prado Road to Dalidio Drive and establishing a continuous
transportation link between S. Higuera Street and Madonna Road. The project aligns with major City goals
such as Housing and Homelessness, Climate Action, Open Space, and Sustainable Transportation, and is
identified in the General Plan. Currently, the project is transitioning from the Project Approval and
Environmental Document (PA/ED) phase to the Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E) phase. During
a recent Council Meeting on September 5, 2023, staff presented updated project cost estimates based on
its progress, projecting a construction cost of $106 million. This estimate included a 5% escalation rate,
amounting to $10 million, factored into the total construction cost. Additionally, staff anticipates a total
of $20 million in soft costs such as construction management and design, for a total project cost of $126
million. As the project progresses through the PS&E phase, the estimated cost will be refined and adjusted
based on value analysis recommendations, ensuring alignment with the project's objectives and financial
considerations.
Cultural Arts District Parking Structure: After two decades of planning, work has commenced on the
Cultural Arts District Parking Structure. The Cultural Arts District Parking Structure is necessary to address
longstanding and growing urban challenges. As the City envisions the realization of future surrounding
projects like the SLOREP Theater and housing projects, coupled with the proposed liner building, this new
structure serves as a pivotal enabler, ensuring adequate parking provisions to accommodate both existing
and forthcoming developments. By adding 397 parking spaces to the downtown inventory, this project
aligns strategically with the City's aspirations for increased density in its urban landscape. This structure,
poised to more than double the availability of public electric vehicle charging stations, also positions the
City as a champion of sustainability, actively supporting greener transportation alternatives and amplifying
its commitment to a forward-looking and accessible urban environment. The project is currently in the
initial phase of construction, and the shoring wall is close to completion. The parking structure is expected
to be completed and operational by January 2026.
North Chorro Greenway: In mid-2023, the City started construction on the North Chorro Neighborhood
Greenway project. This project prioritizes bicycle and pedestrian travel between the Foothill Boulevard
and North Chorro neighborhoods to downtown SLO.
The Greenway project includes construction of over 40 accessible curb ramps, separated bicycle lanes,
safety lighting along the route, public art, and lighting at the Chorro/US 101 underpass, as well as
landscaping along the corridor with 60 new street trees and improved stormwater management features.
This greenway makes traveling by bike or on foot a more convenient and low-stress option, in addition to
providing safe connections to schools and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
4
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 20
The project is nearly finished, with paving now completed along the entire greenway. Remaining items to
be completed include striping, signage, painting of the underpass and columns, and fence installation. The
project is anticipated to be completed in the summer of 2024.
Storm Response Projects: Staff’s swift response to the 2023 storm events led to the successful completion
of crucial storm projects throughout the city. The largest storm response project was the San Luis Drive
Retaining Wall, constructed adjacent to the high school. Several portions of San Luis Obispo creek were
also damaged, resulting in the construction of a soil nail wall near the intersection of Pismo and Johnson
Streets, as well as debris removal projects under the Marsh Street Bridge and between Prado and Los Osos
Valley Roads. A portion of Prefumo Creek that experienced a major flooding event was also cleared to
minimize future flooding risk. Several areas along Old Garden Creek were also damaged, including several
portions of a retaining wall that fell. These areas were swiftly repaired, often during rain events. The
proactive approach to emergency situations, demonstrates the City’s commitment to ensuring the safety
and resilience of our infrastructure. Status on all storm response projects can be found on Table 3 above.
Completed Projects: Throughout the year, staff completed 23 diverse capital improvement projects,
ranging from the Railroad Bike Path Fencing project to the Prefumo Creek Clearing project. These projects
not only improve infrastructure but also contribute to environmental sustainability and community well-
being.
Active Projects: Currently, 17 projects are in active construction, with numerous others in various stages
of design. This active project pipeline reflects an ongoing commitment to progress and development,
addressing the evolving needs of the growing community.
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 21
Table 13. Completed and Ongoing Construction Projects (July 2023-March 2024):
Updated Q3 Budget Report Page 22
Table 14. Status of Major Projects in Design:
Outlook and Conclusion
Based on the third quarter results, the City is well on its way to ending FY 2023-24 in a good financial
condition. As identified in the Mid-Year Budget Report there are a number of factors that impact the City’s
budget including inflationary pressures and ongoing development which will increase the population of
our community over the next several years. Staff is currently working to identify budgetary implications
of this long-term growth and expects the need to carefully monitor expenditure growth in order to assure
the long-term sustainability of the programs and services provided by the City.
ID#Project
TOTAL ESTIMATED
PROJECT COST
(Design and
Construction)
Estimated
Construction Start
Date Additional Comments
41 Mid-Higuera Bypass $11,550,000 Q3 FY 24-25
Finalizing design documents and easement
acquisition process.
42 Prado Road Bridge and Road Widening $25,000,000 Q2 FY 25-26
Working on regulatory permits and 90%
constuction documents.
43 California and Taft Roundabout $4,000,000 Q2 FY 25-26
Right of way acquisition in progress and finalizing
design documents.
44 Prado Road Interchange $126,000,000 Q2 FY 27-28
Alternative analysis and environmental
document phase. Pursuing advertisement of
CEQA document and final project report.
45 Public Safety Center $1,750,000
Q3 FY 24-25 (for
1106 Walnut
work)
Consultant to analyze two site option for public
safety center project and present conceptual
design for review. Currently working on 1106
Tenant Improvement and Site Security Fencing
project. Construction of 1106 TI and Fencing
project estimated to start March 2025 (Q3 FY 24-
25).
Status of Major and Legacy Projects in Design
5