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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 4b. 2025-27 HRC Goal Setting Item 4b Human Relations Commission Agenda Report For Agenda of: 12/4/2024 Item Number: 4b FROM: Nestor Veloz-Passalacqua, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager Phone Number: (805) 781-7073 E-mail: nveloz@slocity.org SUBJECT: 2025-2027 HRC FINANCIAL GOAL SETTING RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION HRC to discuss and provide financial priorities and goals for Council’s consideration for the 2025-27 Financial Plan goal setting. BACKGROUND Part of the financial planning process includes community outreach to help inform Council’s goal-setting process. A vital part of the process is for Council to receive input from advisory bodies. The output of this exercise is to inform of priorities for consideration that impact mayor city goals. NEXT STEPS HRC to discuss and provide financial priorities and goals for Council’s consideration for the 2025-27 Financial Plan. ATTACHMENTS A - 2023-25 Advisory Body Goals Example B - Advisory Body Goal Template Page 19 of 35 Page 20 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives Architectural Review Commission Background State Housing Laws are making it challenging to utilize subjective design guidelines (i.e. Community Design Guidelines) for new residential developments. In response, the ARC, in 2021, helped draft the City’s current Objective Design Standards (ODS) (Municipal Code Chapter 17.69). However new housing laws have expanded the need for more objective design standards for more types of residential developments (i.e. single family, duplexes, triplexes, multifamily, mixed-use, etc.). To continue to support the need for more housing and projects that are compatible with the City’s unique character, the ARC is focused on the expansion of the City’s ODS to provide additional design requirements for all types of residential development. The ODS will regulate residential development, however there is also a need to provide a comprehensive update of the Community Design Guidelines (CDG) to focus the Guidelines specifically on commercial development and other design guidelines and remove subjective residential design guidelines. Goals 1. Expand the Objective Design Standards to provide additional design requirements for more types of residential developments to include standards and definitions for: • Specific types of residential developments (single family, duplexes, triplexes, multifamily, mixed-use, etc.). • Overall site design (parking areas, outdoor spaces, landscaping, pedestrian access, lighting, privacy, etc.). • Transitions between residential and commercial zones and high-density residential and low- density residential zones. • Conversion of commercial buildings into residential development. • And include images and reference photos. 2. Complete a comprehensive update of the Community Design Guidelines for Commercial developments and other design guidelines including: • Strengthen and more clearly define guidelines for storefronts and windows in commercial areas to maintain transparency and prevent the installation of opaque film and interior signs and displays that obstruct views into stores. • Update CDG for neighborhood compatibility to address transitions between neighborhood commercial development and adjacent residential neighborhoods (LUCE §3.5.7.9). • Overall site design (pedestrian scale, walkability, bicycle infrastructure, outdoor spaces, landscaping, etc.) • Include more images and reference photos to highlight guideline language. Page 21 of 35 Page 1 of 3 DATE: December 5, 2022 TO: Emily Jackson, Director of Finance FROM: Adam Fukushima, Staff Liaison to the Active Transportation Committee SUBJECT: FY 2023-25 Active Transportation Committee Recommended Goals On November 17, 2022 the Active Transportation Committee recommended its FY 2023-25 goals for Council consideration which are represented in the following table. Projects are ranked in order of importance from most to least desired to fund based on proposed projects identified in the Active Transportation Plan. Recommended Goal Why Goal is Important Candidate Funding ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN TIER 1 PROJECT DEPLOYMENT Higuera Complete Streets Project -Provide necessary matching funds for this state funded project -Complete design and construction Foothill Blvd Quick Build Project -Complete design and Construction Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon at South/King -Program and construct project Roundabout at California/Taft -Complete design and construct Railroad Safety Trail Gap at Bullock Lane -Acquire approvals from Union Pacific and construct This projects improves north-south cross-town connectivity for active transportation and Safe Routes to School improvements to Hawthorne Elementary and Laguna Middle Schools Improves east-west connectivity between Cal Poly, residences, and activity centers along Foothill Improves connectivity to Hawthorne Elementary School, Meadow Park, and residences Provides a safer connection to the Railroad Safety Trail across California Blvd Fills a gap in the RRST between the existing portion north of Orcutt Rd and new segment south to Tank Farm Rd Project Funding Sources: State funds Federal funds General fund City debt financing Fundraising efforts Measure G-20 Active Transportation Committee Page 22 of 35 Page 2 of 3 Broad Street (South to Orcutt) Quick Build Project -Design and construct Tank Farm Rd Shared Use Path -Complete design & environmental study, acquire right-of-way and construct in an outlying year Johnson St Improvements for Sydney Crossing -Complete design and construction COMPLETE STREETS ELEMENTS OF ANNUAL PAVING PROJECTS Monterey St (Santa Rosa- California) California Blvd (Phillips- Monterey) Johnson St (Buchon-Laurel) Santa Barbara St (Leff-Broad) Palm St (Pepper to Santa Rosa) including Neighborhood Greenway Orcutt Rd (Laurel-Johnson) Pavement Areas 1 and 8 including Neighborhood Greenway on Toro St Misc. Pedestrian Facility Improvements- Maintain $100,000 in annual funding for misc. projects such as safe routes to school, signing & striping projects ideally incorporated into other construction projects Misc. Bicycle Facility Improvements- Maintain $100,000 in annual funding for misc. projects such as safe routes to Improves connectivity and safety along this wide arterial street Improves a low stress, east-west connection for active transportation Improves Safe Routes to School to Sinsheimer Elementary School Completing these projects as part of other construction projects results in substantial cost savings. Completing these improvements as part of other construction projects results in substantial cost savings. Completing these improvements as part of other construction projects results in substantial cost savings. Page 23 of 35 Page 3 of 3 school, signing & striping projects ideally incorporated into other construction projects. Ped/Bikeway Maintenance: Maintain $150,000 annually for bicycle and pedestrian facilities Sidewalk Replacement and Installation: Maintain $250,000 annually for curb ramp and sidewalk upgrades Performing pavement maintenance and weed control on pedestrian and bicycle paths will increase the life of these facilities and reduce the risk of collisions Completing these improvements as part of other construction projects results in substantial cost savings. PROGRAMS Safe Routes to School: Complete a Safe Routes to School Plan for SLO High School It is a goal of the Active Transportation Plan to complete, over time, a Safe Routes to School Plan for each school in the city. A plan for SLO High School will help refine proposed active transportation improvements around the high school Program Funding Sources: State and Federal grants Transportation Development Act funds General fund Measure G STAFFING Active Transportation Manager and Transportation Planner/Engineers: Maintain positions. The City has made a commitment to complete a Tier 1 network identified in the Active Transportation Plan. The Active Transportation Manager and Transportation Planner/Engineers are critical in sufficiently implementing the Tier 1 network projects and preparing grant applications. Staffing Funding Sources: General fund Measure G Page 24 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives Promotions Coordinating Committee Background With the worst of the pandemic behind us, there are residual challenges that still exist including inflation, labor shortages and supply chain issues. Sustainability, diversity, equity, inclusion, and carbon neutrality should continue to be primary considerations in all of our goal work. The City of San Luis Obispo should strive to attain these goals with the support of the stakeholders and Community members Goals 1. Sustain the economic vitality of downtown and other business districts ● We have seen our local businesses survive and, in some cases, prosper over the last two years and it will be crucial to continue this growth trend in the coming two years. Local business is the cornerstone of our community's economic vitality, supporting both jobs and the quality of life of our community members. ● Explore options that expand child care, after school classes, and Parks and Recreation Programs so families have a better opportunity to earn a livable household income. ● Continue to fund Economic Development promotional programs like Support Local including Buy Local Bonus and Eat Local Bonus. 2. Community Engagement and Quality of Life: ● Support placemaking efforts by promoting Public Art Programs and identifying additional opportunities for public art throughout the city. ● Raise the awareness of San Luis Obispo being an “arts” destination by seeking opportunities to improve the quality and quantity of arts available to the community members and visitors of San Luis Obispo. The promotional efforts of arts should include visual, performing, culinary and permanent/temporary public art installations. ● Continue implementation of the Monterey/Mission Plaza downtown concept plan. ● Continue to emphasize the quality of life for all the community members and visitors to San Luis Obispo through the support of programs and grants which focus on this goal. 3. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: ● Expand support for programs which provide opportunities to include all community members in a safe and welcoming way. Page 25 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives ● Continue to work with a wide-ranging group of nonprofits and community organizations to ensure that all community members of San Luis Obispo are exposed to diverse cultural opportunities. 4. Climate Action and Destination Stewardship ● Support implementation of the City of SLO Climate Action Plan which has the goal of carbon neutrality by 2035 including the work of sustainable tourism. ● Support enhanced bike and pedestrian infrastructure throughout the city. Encourage planned buffered and green-striped bike lanes while seeking new opportunities for additional pedestrian safety measures. ● Improve the Public Transportation system to provide safe access for community members to shopping and community resources without long waits and route changes. ● Invest in improvements to the city recycling program including compostable containers, coated papers and more plastics so more items can be recycled leading to less waste. 5. Homelessness Support: Mental Health + Safety ● Continue to increase the support of programs to address the concerns of the community members and how it relates to the unhoused community. ● Expand the support of local programs and organizations which offer resources for the unhoused community including: reunification efforts, outreach, mental/health care access, education, shelter and housing opportunities. Closing The PCC is tasked with improving the quality of life for the community members of San Luis Obispo and we thank you for the opportunity to provide our perspective into your goal setting process. The PCC will take direction provided by Council and write our goals to fit the finalized objectives so that we are working together to reach our mutual goals of making the city of SLO a better place to live and visit. Page 26 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives Planning Commission Background On November 16, 2022, the Planning Commission updated goals for City Council consideration for the 2023-25 Financial Plan. The Planning Commission prioritized the following goals based on the evaluation of the completion status for the 2021-23 Major City Goals; community need, and input received over the past two years; special and urgent conditions that need to be addressed; and the availability of City resources to accomplish the identified goals and work programs within the financial plan timeframe. Goals 1. Housing: Increase Affordable and Workforce Housing Supply Emphasize affordable housing programs, encourage flexible use and non-traditional housing product types to facilitate development of workforce, elderly, and missing middle housing. Provide public information and educational materials that promote the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units. 2. Sustainability: Reduce GHG Emissions by Reducing VMT and Improving Residential Energy Efficiency Implement the Climate Action Plan with emphasis on: 1) identify, implement and promote financial incentives to improve energy efficiency and encourage electrification in existing housing stock and create and distribute educational materials promoting this practice; 2) developing standards that support infrastructure improvements for alternative transportation and electric vehicles; and 3) focus on expanding open space and the urban forest. 3. Multi-Modal Circulation: Improve Walkability and Transit Implement the Multi-Modal objectives identified in the LUCE and the Downtown Concept Plan by encouraging density and in-fill development that includes and prioritizes non-automobile alternatives to access commercial, services and recreational opportunities. Review the Upper Monterey Area Plan and Margarita Area Specific Plan with the intention of providing more housing opportunities to the elderly population, potential for a new transit center located in the Margarita area and encourage protected bike lanes in all new development projects in these areas. 4. Livability Encourage project designs that promote accessible, convenient, and safe pedestrian, bicycle, and transit access with the goal of reducing project-generated vehicle miles traveled by 20-40% below average. Page 27 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives Personnel Board Background The Personnel Board requests the City Council consider the following goals for the 2023-25 Financial Plan. Goals 1. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion The City is committed to policies, practices, and structures that support the well-being and empowerment of all residents, marginalized communities, and its employees. a. More fully utilize the expertise of the Personnel Board in providing input and oversight into the organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, programs, and practices. b. Ensure sufficient resources (staff, consultant, and budgetary) are provided in the 2023- 25 Financial Plan to support changes to current human resources processes to align with best practices in DEI in hiring, training, and promotional policies, practices, and programs identified in the Office of DEI’s 5-year strategic plan. 2. Fiscal Sustainability As the City navigates through uncertain economic times, ensure the City prioritizes employee engagement to reduce turnover and avoid costs associated with hiring and onboarding staff. a. Support employee engagement, wellness, and resiliency through various avenues including employee surveys, adaptation of work policies, and resources that support employee mental health. b. Ensure appropriate resources are allocated to fund employee wages and benefits with inflation in mind while remaining fiscally sustainable in alignment with the Council adopted compensation philosophy and labor relations objectives. c. Consider additional flexibility in ways projects are funded. d. Ensure appropriate resources are allocated for the above in the 2023-25 Financial Plan. 3. City Employee Workforce Development Employees who understand how their work connects to the City’s mission, vision, values, and goals are empowered to make a difference through serving the community of San Luis Obispo. a. Support and prioritize employee development and growth through investing in resources to lead, train, and develop all employees and onboard new and transitioning employees. b. Maintain open communication throughout all levels of organization to report share progress on and impacts of staff projects and Major City Goals. c. Establish, encourage, and facilitate pathways to career development. Page 28 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives Tourism Business Improvement District Background The Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) Board recommends that City Council continue with the existing adopted Major City Goals for 23-25 as these goals continue to align with the priority values and needs of the community. However, the TBID recommends the addition work program as outlined below. Goals 1. Economic Recovery, Resiliency & Fiscal Sustainability: In collaboration with local partners, continue to support economic recovery for all from the Covid-19 pandemic and support a thriving local economy by supporting local businesses, arts and culture, downtown vitality, practicing fiscal responsibility, paying down unfunded pension liabilities, and investing in critical infrastructure. • Proposed Work Program Focus Areas + Additions: • Foster economic resiliency to support the vitality of Downtown and outlying business districts. Support and provide programs for business community recovery + community beautification so SLO remains a vibrant and attractive place to live, work and visit. • Expand regional transportation options including from Santa Maria to SLO for service workers, and to/from the airport and train station for visitors or regional workers and visitors • Continuance of a feasibility study for a multi-faceted meeting/events venue • Economic development efforts to drive more midweek corporate business demand in the City • Streamline permitting for future development • Evaluate parking needs at sports venues and elsewhere to accommodate added demand • Expand the Economic Development commitment of the city to support new ways of doing business and reduce business development barriers. Economic recovery supports local jobs and the local economy. • Support the implementation of the P&R master plan, prioritizing the development of enclosed dog park areas and facilities to support residents and visitors. Page 29 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives 2. Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: In response to our commitment to making San Luis Obispo a more welcoming and inclusive city for all, continue to develop programs and policies to support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and advance the recommendations of the DEI Task Force. • Proposed Work Program Focus Areas + Additions: • Expand engagement and education to support and foster safe and welcoming opportunities throughout the community. • Continue to work with a wide-ranging group of nonprofits and community organizations to ensure that the residents of San Luis Obispo are exposed to diverse opportunities to all segments of our local community. • Build connection between diverse community populations (Cal Poly, Business, Residents, Visitors). 3. Housing and Homelessness: In order to expand housing options for all, continue to facilitate the production of housing, including the necessary supporting infrastructure, with an emphasis on affordable and workforce housing. Collaborate with local non- profit partners and the county, the state, and federal governments to discover and implement comprehensive and effective strategies to reduce chronic homelessness. • Proposed Work Program Focus Areas + Additions: • Priority to continue to mitigate the unhoused population issues as much as possible. • Getting the unhoused population housed and/or relocated for areas like downtown to help clean up high traffic areas and benefit to tourism through the visitor experience. • Prioritizing and addressing safety concerns from the general population including visitors and businesses related to the impacts from the unhoused population so residents and tourists can feel safe while enjoying activities in San Luis Obispo. • Address affordable housing as an economic issue and barrier to resource retention and business attraction 4. Climate Action, Open Space & Sustainable Transportation: To proactively address the climate crisis, continue to update and implement the Climate Action Plan for carbon neutrality, including preservation and enhancement of open space and the urban forest, alternative and sustainable transportation, and planning and implementation for resilience. • Proposed Work Program Focus Areas + Additions: Page 30 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives • Expand regional transportation options including from Santa Maria to SLO for service workers, and to/from the airport and train station for visitors or regional workers and visitors Page 31 of 35 2023-25 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives Cultural Heritage Committee Goals 1. Historic Inventory & Historic Preservation Ordinance Update – Allocate funds and resources for a comprehensive update of the City’s inventory of historic resources and associated updates to the Historic Preservation Ordinance as recommended by the consultant led preliminary phase assessment and recommendations com pleted by historic consultant Page and Turnbull. 2. City Owned Adobes – Support efforts to improve the structural condition, historic integrity, and appropriate cultural interpretation of the four City-owned adobes in light of the City’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals. In particular, support efforts to stabilize, restore, and rehabilitate the La Loma Adobe. 3. Public Information: Provide information to increase awareness and support of the Historic Preservation Program and Historic Resources Inventory update project including opportunities for participation; and, pursue opportunities for appropriate cultural interpretation of historic resources with a focus on including City goals to advance Diversity, Equity, and inclusion. Page 32 of 35 2025-27 Financial Plan Proposed Goals & Objectives [Name of Committee] Background [Please provide background narrative for your goals] Goals 1. Goal #1 [Please provide narrative detailing goal] Please provide as many goals as seem reasonable considering that resources are limited. Page 33 of 35 Page 34 of 35