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Home My WebLink About2023-05-09 PSC Agenda PacketPage 1 of 2 Public Spaces Commission Special Meeting AGENDA Civic Center Annex ♦ 411 W. Clay St., Conf. RM #5 ♦ Ukiah, CA 95482 or by Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 May 9, 2023 - 5:00 PM 1. ROLL CALL 2. INTRODUCTIONS 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 3.a. Approval of Minutes from November 8th 2022- Regular Meeting Recommended Action: Attachments: 1. 2022-11-8 Minutes 3.b. Approval of Minutes from January 10th 2023-Special Meeting Recommended Action: Attachments: 1. 2023-1-10 Minutes 4. STAFF MEMBER PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS 4.a. Neil Davis- Community Services Director- City’s New Volunteer Program. Recommended Action: Receive report on City efforts to establish a volunteer program. Attachments: None 4.b. Report on the State of the Municipal Pool at Todd Grove Park Recommended Action: Recieve report. Attachments: None 5. COMMISSIONERS REPORTS 6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS (DISCUSSION ONLY) 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Page 1 of 27 Page 2 of 2 The Public Spaces Commission (PSC) welcomes input from the audience that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the PSC. In order for everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person and not more the (10) minutes per subject. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on audience comments. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8.a. Approve Recommendation to City Council to Extend the 2018-2023 Observatory Park Strategic Plan for an Additional Five Years. Recommended Action: Provide a recommendation to the City Council of an extension of the current plan for an additional five years. Attachments: 1. COU OP Strategic Plan 2018-2023-final 2. 2023 Performance Evaluation 8.b. Approve Recommendation For the City of Ukiah to Pursue the California 30x30 Initiative. Recommended Action: Staff recommend the PSC make a recommendation to the City Council to adopt a policy or make a resolution to become a partner in the 30x30 community and commit to achieving the goal of conserving 30% of city-owned properties. Attachments: None 8.c. Recieve Report On Current Conditions a McGarvey Park and consider scheduling an additional PSC meeting for June 11th. Recommended Action: Recieve Report On Current Conditions a McGarvey Park and consider scheduling an additional PSC meeting for June 11th. Attachments: None 9. ADJOURNMENT Please be advised that the City needs to be notified 72 hours in advance of a meeting if any specific accommodations or interpreter services are needed in order for you to attend. The City complies with ADA requirements and will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities upon request. Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Public Spaces Commission after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection at the main entrance of the City of Ukiah Annex, located at 411 W. Clay St., Ukiah, CA 95482, not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting set forth on this agenda. Page 2 of 27 AGENDA ITEM 5a Page 1 of 2 CITY OF UKIAH PUBLIC SPACES COMMISSION MINUTES Community Forum Conference Center- 200 S School St. Ukiah, CA 95482 Virtual Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 November 8th, 2022 5:00 p.m. 1. ROLL CALL Public Spaces Commission met at a Community Forum on November 8th, 2022, having been legally noticed on November 4th, 2022. The meeting was held virtually at the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 and in person at the Conference 200 S School St. Ukiah Ca 95482. Commissioner Babbini called the meeting to order at 5:02 p.m. Roll was taken with the following Commissioners Present: Elora Babbini, Megan Parker, Vicki Bitonti-Brown and Casey Thompson Commissioners Absent by Prearrangement: Susan Knopf Staff Present: Neil Davis, Community Services Director and Mikki Taylor, Community Services Administrative Secretary. 2. INTRODUCTIONS Casey Thompson- Newest Commission Member. 3. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS None Given 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approval of Minutes from March 22nd 2022 – Regular Meeting Parker/Bitonti-Brown to approve the Minutes of March 22nd, 2022, a Regular Meeting; as submitted. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES:, Babbini, Thompson NOES: None. ABSENT: Knopf ABSTAIN: None b. Approval of Minutes from August 4th 2022- Regular Meeting Parker/Bitonti-Brown to approve the Minutes of May 10th, 2022, a Regular Meeting; as submitted. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES:, Babbini, Thompson NOES: None. ABSENT: Knopf ABSTAIN: None 5. STAFF MEMBER PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS a. Shannon Riley- Deputy City Manager- City of Ukiah Climate Action Initiatives Presenter: Shannon Riley Report was received b. Maya Simerson- Project and Grant Administrator & Neil Davis- Community Services Director- Western Hills Presenter: Maya Simerson & Neil Davis Report was received 6. COMMISSIONER REPORTS a. Elora Babbini - Commission Member b. Megan Parker – Commission Member Page 3 of 27 Public Spaces Commission Minutes for November 8th, 2022 Continued: Page 2 of 2 c. Vicki Bitonti-Brown- Commissions Member 7. UNFINISHED BUISNESS None Given 8. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Public Comment: Western Hills questions and concerns from multiple Ukiah West Side Residents. 9. NEW BUSINESS None Given 10. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. ________________________________ Mikki Taylor, Public Spaces Commission Clerk Page 4 of 27 AGENDA ITEM 5a Page 1 of 2 CITY OF UKIAH PUBLIC SPACES COMMISSION MINUTES Special Meeting 411 W. Clay St- Conference Room #5 Ukiah, CA 95482 Virtual Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 January 10th, 2023 5:00 p.m. 1. ROLL CALL Public Spaces Commission met at a Community Forum on January 10th, 2023, having been legally noticed on January 6th 2023. The meeting was held virtually at the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81764322746 and in person in Conference Room #5 at 411 W Clay, Ukiah Ca 95482. Commissioner Babbini called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. Roll was taken with the following Commissioners Present: Elora Babbini, Vicki Bitonti-Brown and Casey Thompson Commissioners Absent by Prearrangement: Megan Parker Staff Present: Neil Davis, Community Services Director and Mikki Taylor, Community Services Administrative Assistant. 2. INTRODUCTIONS Joe Scrivven- Ukiah Resident Rob Fitzsimmons- County Planner 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a. Approval of Minutes from November 8th 2022 -Community Forum No Quorum- move to next meeting 4. STAFF MEMBER PRESENTATIONS/REPORTS a. Neil Davis- Community Services Director- Todd Grove Playground and BBQ Area Update Presenter: Neil Davis Report was received. b. Neil Davis- Community Services Director- Western Hills Update Presenter: Neil Davis Report was received. 5. COMMISSIONER REPORTS a. Vicki Bitonti-Brown- Commissions Member 6. UNFINISHED BUISNESS a. Annual Review and Adoption of 2023 PSC Community Outreach Plan Presenter: Neil Davis Report was received no action taken due to quorum. b. Discuss and make topic recommendations for the upcoming Community Forum Presenter: Neil Davis Report was received no action taken due to quorum. Page 5 of 27 Public Spaces Commission Minutes for January 10th, 2023 Continued: Page 2 of 2 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Public Comment: None Given 8. NEW BUSINESS None Given 9. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. ________________________________ Mikki Taylor, Public Spaces Commission Clerk Page 6 of 27 Page 1 of 2 Agenda Item No: 4.a. MEETING DATE/TIME: 5/9/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2479 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Neil Davis- Community Services Director- City’s New Volunteer Program. DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: None Summary: Volunteerism can provide great benefit to both the volunteer and the host organization. With seventeen City Parks and a wide array of community services, City of Ukiah staff are constantly challenged to stay on top of all possible opportunities for community improvement. Volunteers can potentially help meet these opportunities, but staff time, planning, and resources are required to set volunteers up for success. Volunteering provides opportunities for connecting with neighbors and the community while providing physical and mental health benefits. Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction while providing a natural sense of accomplishment. Collectively for both host and participant, volunteerism increases social capital and community health. A number of community organizations organize and lead volunteer efforts to address specific causes. For example, the Rotary club does creek cleanups, Pacific Outfitter held very successful garbage pickups, and the Ukiah Valley Trail Group lead volunteers in providing trail maintenance. While the City of Ukiah has intermittently hosted volunteer events with varying levels of success, despite the great benefits of volunteerism, the City does not have an organized and consistent volunteer program. Background: Discussion: Successful volunteer events, and particularly sustained efforts to lead volunteer events require a significant commitment of time and resources. The City of Ukiah has been seeking funding to hire a volunteer coordinator and plans to apply again to the CalTrans Clean CA grant program for this purpose. City staff have started taking action- steps to create a program with existing resources. Identifying community partners and volunteer crew leaders to take leadership roles could make a sustainable program possible without a funded position. Recommended Action: Receive report on City efforts to establish a volunteer program. BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: CURRENT BUDGET AMOUNT: PROPOSED BUDGET AMOUNT: FINANCING SOURCE: PREVIOUS CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER NO.: Page 7 of 27 Page 2 of 2 COORDINATED WITH: Approved: Sage Sangiacomo, City Manager Page 8 of 27 Page 1 of 3 Agenda Item No: 4.b. MEETING DATE/TIME: 5/9/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2581 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Report on the State of the Municipal Pool at Todd Grove Park DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: None Summary: Commissioners will receive and consider a report on the State of the Municipal Pool at Todd Grove Park. Background: Ukiah’s Municipal Pool located at Todd Grove Park is heavily used and appreciated by the community. The City’s Parks team maintains the facility and the Recreation Team manages pool activities. The facility is housed behind a locked gate and opened by staff on a fee-based system. The “Municipal Pool” is accessed through a building that includes bathrooms, showers, and changing room facilities. Users use the building as a gateway to the pools. There are three pools, one of which (a children’s wading pool) is permanently out of service. The Municipal Pool’s History According to Pinky Kushner’s 2019 article in the Ukiah Daily Journal “the oldest pool, the larger of the two, was built in 1936. It was a product of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), conceived and constructed, along with Todd Grove Park’s stone wall, during that bleak time in this country when extreme economic hardship prevailed. The pool construction promoted pride and public spirit and made its own heroes, especially the leader of the WPA pool project committee, W.H. Brunner.” “The second pool was built in 1961, another historic time—think Elvis, drive-ins, winged cars and the great expansion of the California junior college system. This pool is distinguished from the earlier one with its single depth of 4 feet, a leveling that makes everyone equal in the pool. In large part this pool owes its existence to the Ukiah Dolphins” “About 10 years ago, the pools were threatened with drastic changes. The pools were old, had some leaks, and needed some upgrades, such as disability access in the bathhouse and the pools.” “In 2000 California voters passed Proposition 12, a statewide bond measure to help public recreational facilities. The city applied for three grants under this program and got all three – the only community in the state to be so successful. Grants for a skateboard park, the new Anton stadium, and the Todd Grove Park pools were all awarded.” “The recession of 2008, however, hit Ukiah hard. It meant severe budget restrictions all around, including cutting staff back to four-day weeks. The city had managed to move forward with the Skateboard Park and Anton Stadium, but the pool project languished. There was even discussion about not moving forward with the pools project, meaning the money would stay with the state.” “The state grants had strict community requirements—approximately 25 percent of the total cost must come from the city and, the biggest stumbling block, 10 percent from donations from the public. It seemed as though Page 9 of 27 Page 2 of 3 the pool grant would be too burdensome to accept, especially since the community had just helped out with funding for the Skate Park and Anton Stadium.” “So in 2010, nearing the deadline for using the state grant, the city came up with a proposal for the pools. It would use the grant money to re-purpose the large pool into two pools, a smaller “regular” pool and a hot, “therapy” pool that would be used (and paid for) at least in part by the local medical establishment for physical rehabilitation. In the plan, the single-depth pool would be eliminated entirely.” “The proposal was met with alarm from the early morning water exercise class for seniors, who saw that eliminating the single-depth pool would likely eliminate their class. The seniors challenged the city’s plan and proposed that they would come up with the donation side of the funding. Implicit in the offer was an agreement from the city to keep both pools. After innumerable garage sales, bake sales and knocking on doors, the price tag for the public donation – $74,000 – was reached..” Half of the money came through trusts and larger donations, and the other half though smaller donations, special events, and kids dropping quarters in jars at special events. Ultimately the grant provided new pipes, new lights, new pool deck, and disabled access. Municipal Pool Uses The pools provide for a wide variety of uses including Red Cross certified swimming lessons, free swim and lap swim opportunities, water aerobics and physical therapy, lifeguard and diving trainings, events (including the Kid’s Triathlon) and summer camp programs. Although use of the pool is fee based, a scholarship program is available to ensure low-income families and individuals have access. Discussion: Despite all the community and maintenance staff efforts, the beloved Municipal Pool Facility is aging. The pools are now 87 and 62 years old and maintenance needs are gradually and continually increasing. Some of the most concerning maintenance issues include: • The wading pool has failed and has been locked and unmaintained for years. • The solar heating system has failed and has not worked for years. The pools are unheated. • One of the three large pool filters failed and is out of service. The other two remaining filters are in similar pre-failure condition to the failed filter. They are rusting through and no longer repairable. Current flow and filtering is adequate for safety. The price of replacement is $150,000. If one more filter fails, the large pool will be out of service until the filters can be replaced. • The pump house structure was cheaply constructed and needs to be replaced. • The pool liner in the large pool is leaking. After accounting for evaporation, the pool loses 1250 gallons of water per day or over 450,000 gallons of water per year. • The high dive was removed as the pool is not deep enough for safe use. The low diving board is “grandfathered” in and its use is still permitted. Were it to have a problem that necessitated replacement, it could not be replaced due to the lack of pool depth. • The concessions stand does not have adequate ventilation and lacks the required sinks and handwashing stations to meet current code. • The plumbing for the showers is old and the fixtures need to be replaced frequently. Some shower heads have been capped as unrepairable. • Pavement around the pool is cracking with one corner of the large pool requiring annual concrete repair. • Sections of the small pool under-water surface are cracked and chipped with sharp edges. The City of Cordova’s community pool, built in the 1960’s and relined in the early 2000’s failed in 2013. The pool’s sudden inability to hold water rendered the pool unusable and remained closed for years until it could be replaced. The possibility of a similar incident cannot be ruled out. Page 10 of 27 Page 3 of 3 By current municipal pool standards, Ukiah’s pool is very outdated. New pool designs are more accommodating to users of all ages and abilities and are cheaper to maintain. Further, new materials and designs provide an enhanced user experience. Rough estimates suggest demolishing the existing facility and installing a new modern facility would cost 10-12 million dollars. A new facility would, however, decrease maintenance costs and provide a pool that should last for the next 60 plus years. Recommended Action: Recieve report. BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: CURRENT BUDGET AMOUNT: PROPOSED BUDGET AMOUNT: FINANCING SOURCE: PREVIOUS CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER NO.: COORDINATED WITH: Approved: Sage Sangiacomo, City Manager Page 11 of 27 Page 1 of 2 Agenda Item No: 8.a. MEETING DATE/TIME: 5/9/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2494 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Approve Recommendation to City Council to Extend the 2018-2023 Observatory Park Strategic Plan for an Additional Five Years. DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: 1. COU OP Strategic Plan 2018-2023-final 2. 2023 Performance Evaluation Summary: The Commission will review the Strategic Plan and consider recommending to the CIty Council an extension of the current plan for an additional five years. Background: Observatory park is built on the location of the historic Ukiah International Latitude Observatory. The Observatory was originally authorized by Congress in 1807 under President Thomas Jefferson, with a mission to chart the nation’s coastlines to ensure safe navigation. In 1867, its name was changed to include geodesy—the science of accurately measuring the size, shape, and orientation of the earth—and also the mapping of the nation’s interior. Built in 1899, the Observatory as we know it was one of six astronomical stations located around the world along a single parallel of latitude in the northern hemisphere. This study was done in collaboration with scientists around the world and ultimately became the longest running international scientific study. The work of the scientists at this location was critical in the development of GPS and GIS technologies and what a former NASA chief historian has called “the longest- running series of focused observations in the history of astronomy.” The City of Ukiah was deeded the observatory property in the 1990s by the Department of Interior National Park Service. In 2012, a $54,000 grant from the California Land and Water Conservation Fund, with matching funds from the City of Ukiah, funded the landscaping of the 2.56-acre city park. Additional private donations allowed the historic observatory to be restored, and a grant from the Community Foundation of Mendocino County enabled the installation of a labyrinth. The observatory has been open intermittently since 2014 and hosts field trips from Mendocino and Sonoma County schools, public star parties, and special observing sessions for astronomical events. The former observer’s residence is used by Ukiah Unified School District for the Community Transition Program for students ages 18 to 22 with special needs. A peace pole dedicated to Erica Enzer—an international peace activist and former member of the Ukiah War Resistor’s League—is next to the Grove of Nations. Trees represent regions of the world where the other latitude observatories were built. Observatory Park also has Ukiah’s first Pétanque court, completed in 2010 by the Redwood Empire Boules Club, for the game of boules (balls), related to bocce and a small community garden. The community garden site is currently being used by the City as a native plant nursery. In 2018 City staff and the Friends of Observatory Park group collaborated to produce an Observatory Park Strategic Plan (Attachment 1) to guide activities at the Park for the next five years; 2018-2023. Even during the Page 12 of 27 Page 2 of 2 strategic planning process, the Friends group was struggling to maintain membership and the group passed out of existence during the pandemic. Discussion: On March 14th the 2018-23 Strategic Plan was presented at the Public Spaces Commission Community Forum. The presentation outlined the four primary Goals established in the Strategic Plan; 1) An Inspired Community, 2) A Well Preserved Historical Site, 3) Enhance Partnerships, and 4) A High Performing Organization. In February and March of 2023 staff broke these goals into into Performance Measures and Action Plans. Staff presented the analysis and Commissioners expressed agreement with the self- performance assessment included as Attachment 2. A thorough update to the Strategic Plan is more than can be accomplished in a single Public Spaces Commission Forum, but the Forum did provide a good opportunity for public input. The 2018-23 Strategic Plan places a heavy emphasis on the Observatory and its history with little mention of other uses such as petanque and community gardens, though community members have expressed interest in these uses. The Community Forum allowed for public comment and input on the entire array of potential uses of the park. Following discussion, it was agreed that a simple extension to the plan is the best approach to guiding activities at the Park for the next five or more years. Staff recommend the Public Spaces Commission bring a recommendation to City Council to continue to operate under the existing plan for the next five years. Recommended Action: Provide a recommendation to the City Council of an extension of the current plan for an additional five years. BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: CURRENT BUDGET AMOUNT: PROPOSED BUDGET AMOUNT: FINANCING SOURCE: PREVIOUS CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER NO.: COORDINATED WITH: Approved: Sage Sangiacomo, City Manager Page 13 of 27 CITY OF UKIAH OBSERVATORY PARK STRATEGIC PLAN 2018—2023 Page 14 of 27 Performance Measurement 1 Increase the number of visitors to the Ukiah Latitude Observatory and Park by 20% annually. Action Plan 1. Community Services Parks and Recreation Department staff will arrange at least four lectures/talks in the City Council chambers per year by guest speakers about the Historic Ukiah Latitude Observatory, the earth sciences and the universe. 2. Parks and Recreation Department staff will conduct at least two family- friendly events per year (e.g., Bounce to the Stars) to encourage people of all ages to use the park and visit the Observatory. 3. Parks and Recreation Department staff will develop a curriculum and host at least two to four field trips annually by local 5th Graders. 4. Parks and Recreation Department staff will work with Observatory docents and volunteers to provide a variety of activities. 5. Parks and Recreation Department staff will define and install an educational walking path in the park STRATEGIC PLAN 2018—2023 Page 15 of 27 to engage community members who use the park for exercising, walking and relaxing. 6. Parks and Recreation Department staff will facilitate additional programming by partners, e.g., Mendocino College and others, to promote the use of the facilities and engage a broader audience. 7. Parks and Recreation Department staff will expand online educational offerings, e.g., a video of Carl Sagan, to engage a broader audience online. 8. Parks and Recreation Department staff will serve as point of contact for the general community, inquiries and scheduling of the Observatory and the Park. ♦ ♦ ♦ STRATEGIC PLAN 2018—2023 Page 16 of 27 Performance Measurement 2 Meet or exceed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) maintenance standards for the Ukiah Latitude Observatory on an annual basis. Action Plan 1. Define and implement an equipment maintenance schedule that meets NOAA requirements for telescope maintenance, site maintenance, etc. 2. Evaluate the Observatory storage area and remove items that are not related to the Observatory’s activities or upkeep. 3. Parks and Recreation Department staff will define and install interpretative signage for the park to communicate the historical aspects of the Observatory and spark the interest of walkers-by. ♦ ♦ ♦ STRATEGIC PLAN 2018—2023 Page 17 of 27 Performance Measurement 3 Increase the number of Ukiah Latitude Observatory and Observatory Park partnerships by 25% annually. Action Plan 1. Mobilize Friends of Observatory Park to facilitate programming and use of the Observatory Park site. 2. Maintain relationships with existing partners, e.g., Mendocino College and the National Network, to bring college-aged students to Ukiah. 3. Expand the partnership network to include groups with mutual interests, e.g., Ukiah Astronomical Society, Ukiah Photography Club, Mendocino Lost & Found Metal Detecting Club, Geocaching Club, etc. 4. Recruit paid or volunteer interns from local colleges or state universities to assist with education, implementing projects, etc. 5. Explore other possible partnerships, e.g., with the Northern California Chapter of Land Surveyors, etc., to support use of the Observatory and the Park. STRATEGIC PLAN 2018—2023 Page 18 of 27 Performance Measurement 4 Increase funding for Ukiah Latitude Observatory program activities, special projects and operations by 20% annually. Action Plan 1. Contain costs and increase operational efficiency by defining a new team structure, roles and responsibilities, as well as routinely engaging in strategic and tactical planning, and collaborative, creative problem-solving. 2. Identify best practices and opportunities for process improvement and automation across programs in order to provide effective and efficient delivery of services by the Community Services Department to the community. 3. Monitor expenditures and budget on a monthly basis, and revenues on a quarterly basis, to contain costs and address emerging issues. 4. Develop and deploy a fundraising plan, including projects that will garner community support, as well as fundraising mechanisms. 5. Define and implement a sponsorship program to expand educational programming, as well as fund projects (e.g., interpretive signage). 6. Enhance the Ukiah Latitude Observatory website and refine the online user experience so that there is an easy transition between the Ukiah Latitude Observatory, and Parks and Recreation web pages. STRATEGIC PLAN 2018—2023 Page 19 of 27 CITY OF UKIAH OBSERVATORY PARK STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2023 For more information, contact: 411 West Clay St. ~ Ukiah, California 95482 Phone: (707) 463-6231 Page 20 of 27 1 ‐ An Inspired Community 1 Community Services Parks and Recreation Department staff will arrange at least four lectures/talks in the City Council chambers per year by guest speakers about the Historic Ukiah Latitude Observatory, the earth sciences and the universe. 2 Parks and Recreation Department staff will conduct at least two family‐friendly events per year (e.g., Bounce to the Stars) to encourage people of all ages to use the park and visit the Observatory. 3 Parks and Recreation Department staff will develop a curriculum and host at least two to four field trips annually by local 5th Graders 4 Parks and Recreation Department staff will work with Observatory docents and volunteers to provide a variety of activities. 5 Parks and Recreation Department staff will define and install an educational walking path in the park to engage community members who use the park for exercising, walking and relaxing. 6 Parks and Recreation Departmentstaff will facilitate additionalprogramming by partners, e.g.,Mendocino College and others, topromote the use of the facilities andengage a broader audience. 7 Parks and Recreation Departmentstaff will expand online educationalofferings, e.g., a video of Carl Sagan,to engage a broader audience online. 8 Parks and Recreation Departmentstaff will serve as point of contact forthe general community, inquiriesand scheduling of the Observatoryand the Park. 1 Define and implement an equipment maintenance schedule that meets NOAA requirements for telescope maintenance, site maintenance, etc. 2 Evaluate the Observatory storage area and remove items that are notrelated to the Observatory’s activities or upkeep. 3 Parks and Recreation Department staff will define and install interpretative signage for the park to communicate the historical aspects of the Observatory and spark the interest of walkers‐by. Perfomance Measure Increase the number of visitors to the Ukiah Latitude Observatory and Park by 20% annually 2 ‐ A Well Preserved Historical Site Attachment 2 Page 21 of 27 4 Repurpose the Observer's office into a public space for further interpreting the history of Ukiah Lattitude Observatory and for inspiring curisosity about current and future development in the astronomical sciences. Meet or exceed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) maintenance standards for the Ukiah Latitude Observatory on an annual basis. 3 ‐ Enhance Partnerships 1 Mobilize Friends of Observatory Park to facilitate programming and use of the Observatory Park site. Trending Red 2 Maintain relationships with existing partners, e.g., Mendocino College and the National Network, to bring college‐aged students to Ukiah. 3 Expand the partnership network to include groups with mutual interests, e.g., Ukiah Astronomical Society, Ukiah Photography Club, Mendocino Lost & Found Metal Detecting Club, Geocaching Club, etc. 4 Recruit paid or volunteer interns from local colleges or state universities to assist with education, implementing projects, etc. 5 Explore other possible partnerships, e.g., with the Northern California Chapter of Land Surveyors, etc., to support use of the Observatory and the Park. Increase the number of Ukiah Latitude Observatory and Observatory Park partnerships by 25% annually. 4 ‐ A High Performing Organization 1 Contain costs and increase operational efficiency by defining a new team structure, roles and responsibilities, as well as routinely engaging in strategic and tactical planning, and collaborative, creative problem‐solving. 2 Identify best practices and opportunities for process improvement and automation across programs in order to provide effective and efficient delivery of services by the Community Services Department to the community. 3 Monitor expenditures and budget on a monthly basis, and revenues on a quarterly basis, to contain costs and address emerging issues. 4 Develop and deploy a fundraising plan, including projects that will garner community support, as well as fundraising mechanisms. Perfomance Measure Perfomance Measure Page 22 of 27 5 Define and implement a sponsorship program to expand educational programming, as well as fund projects (e.g., interpretive signage). 6 Enhance the Ukiah Latitude Observatory website and refine the online user experience so that there is an easy transition between the Ukiah Latitude Observatory, and Parks and Recreation web pages. Increase funding for Ukiah Latitude Observatory program activities, special projects and operations by 20% annually. Perfomance Measure Page 23 of 27 Page 1 of 2 Agenda Item No: 8.b. MEETING DATE/TIME: 5/9/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2580 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Approve Recommendation For the City of Ukiah to Pursue the California 30x30 Initiative. DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: None Summary: Staff will present the 30x30 initiative and review the benefits of the City committing to the effort to conserve 30% of City-owned properties. Background: In October 2020, Governor Newsom signed his Nature Based Solutions Executive Order N-82- 20, elevating the role of natural and working lands in the fight against climate change and advancing biodiversity conservation as an administration priority. As part of this Executive Order, California committed to the goal of conserving 30 percent of our lands and coastal waters by 2030. The Executive Order directs the California Natural Resources Agency (CRNA) to coordinate the execution of 30x30 with other State agencies and stakeholders through a series of actions including the development of a strategy document by February 2022; called the Pathways to 30x30. This Pathways to 30x30 strategy sets California on the path to successfully implement our 30x30 conservation goal. This strategy: Describes the key objectives and core commitments that are a part of California’s 30x30 conservation framework. Defines conservation for the purpose of California’s 30x30 initiative and establishes a current baseline of conserved areas. Outlines strategic actions necessary to achieve our 30x30 target. Introduces CA Nature, a suite of publicly available applications to identify conservation opportunities and track our collective progress. Over the past year, through collaborative and inclusive public engagement process, CNRA has been gathering expert opinions and asking people around the state for what, in their view, are our best opportunities and strategies for achieving 30x30. The draft strategy has been shaped by months of public participation and collaboration, including Tribal consultations, public input surveys, regional discussions, and topical workshops. To watch recordings of previous webinars, visit our Public Engagement page . The Draft Pathways to 30x30 strategy was released on December 15, 2021. Stakeholders and members of the public were invited to submit written feedback by Friday, January 28, 2022. Read CNRA's press release. Discussion: The City of Ukiah has committed to addressing climate change in a wide variety of ways, principally through elements of the 2040 General Plan and the Climate Initiative. The conservation of open space is addressed in the following General Plan elements: LU 6 Hillside Access “To preserve the natural character of hillside development areas. Page 24 of 27 Page 2 of 2 LU 7 To ensure orderly and timely growth… LU 8 Growth Management LU 11.3 Neighborhood Character “… complement views from US101 LU 13 Ensure all have equal access to green spaces..” ED 4.1 Supporting Tourism PFS 1 Maintain safe and adequate water… PFS 1.1 Water Storage PFS 12 To provide parks… PFS12.3 Equitable access to Parks The recent purchase of the properties now known as the Western Hills Watershed Protection area, along with existing conserved properties at the old land fill, the waste water treatment plant, and Low Gap Park, the City now owns approximately 1000 acres of open space. The 2040 General plan identifies the City of Ukiah as comprising 3,071 acres. With the addition of approximately 800 acres of western hills, the City has conserved approximately 1000 acres and 25% of its total lands. The City is actively looking for ways to protect the Western Hills, including purchasing properties to achieve the goal. The acquisition or protection of an additional 400 acres would bring the City the distinction of successfully conserving 30% of our public lands. With expected annexations, however, the acquisition or other conservation of lands would be required to attain and/or maintain the distinction. Staff feel that setting the goal, and making a public commitment to pursuing the goal, will increase the likelihood of achieving the goal. Staff recommend the PSC make a recommendation to the City Council to adopt a policy or make a resolution to become a partner in the 30x30 community and commit to achieving the goal of conserving 30% of city-owned properties. Recommended Action: Staff recommend the PSC make a recommendation to the City Council to adopt a policy or make a resolution to become a partner in the 30x30 community and commit to achieving the goal of conserving 30% of city-owned properties. BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: CURRENT BUDGET AMOUNT: PROPOSED BUDGET AMOUNT: FINANCING SOURCE: PREVIOUS CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER NO.: COORDINATED WITH: Approved: Sage Sangiacomo, City Manager Page 25 of 27 Page 1 of 2 Agenda Item No: 8.c. MEETING DATE/TIME: 5/9/2023 ITEM NO: 2023-2646 AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT SUBJECT: Recieve Report On Current Conditions a McGarvey Park and consider scheduling an additional PSC meeting for June 11th. DEPARTMENT: Community Services PREPARED BY: Neil Davis, Community Services Director PRESENTER: ATTACHMENTS: None Summary: Commissioners will receive a report on McGarvey Park and consider scheduling an additional PSC meeting for June 11th. Background: The City of Ukiah’s 43,000 sf McGarvey Park occupies the block surrounded by W Clay St, S Dora Ave, W Stephenson St and W Bush St. The property was donated by Judge McGarvey in 1888. The park’s traditional landscaping is overgrown with older plants, its paths are deteriorated with root humps, the irrigation needs replacement, and its central feature is a dilapidated and non-functional fountain. Despite these many challenges, the location, plentiful shade, and abundant benches, along with some interesting flowering trees makes the park a popular stopping point. The park is actively and frequently used as a location for photo portraits as well as by picnickers, dog walkers and people looking for a comfortable place to rest. The City of Ukiah has contracted with GSM Landscape Architects Inc to prepare a conceptual landscape design with enough detail to support grant applications for the installation of the plan. The plan is expected to include removing the existing fountain. As the existing paths and irrigation need to be replaced, the designer will be free to realign paths and irrigation, however, the GSM has been requested to retain its generally formal design. The design should provide a long-term a succession plan for replacement of its trees as they are lost to old age. Discussion: GSM has signed the contract and held an initial meeting with Director Davis. GSM will schedule an initial site visit for the third week of May. GSM will plan on presenting a few very general ideas for the design for PSC and community input at an initial public meeting. They will incorporate public comment into an initial design that will be presented to the public in a follow-up meeting. In an effort to respect GSM's budget and timeline, staff recommend scheduling a special PSC or other public input meeting for Tuesday June 13th so the firm can return with close to final plans for review at the July 11th PSC meeting. Recommended Action: Recieve Report On Current Conditions a McGarvey Park and consider scheduling an additional PSC meeting for June 11th. BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: CURRENT BUDGET AMOUNT: PROPOSED BUDGET AMOUNT: FINANCING SOURCE: PREVIOUS CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER NO.: Page 26 of 27 Page 2 of 2 COORDINATED WITH: Approved: Sage Sangiacomo, City Manager Page 27 of 27