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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-09-06 - AGENDA REPORTS - OPEN SPACE PARKLAND DISTRICT (2)CITY OF SANTA CLARITA INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Smyth & Councilmembers Chairpersons and Members of the Planning and Parks, Recreation & Community Service Commissions FROM: Ken Pulskamp, City Manage/Y4 DATE: September 6, 2005 SUBJECT: FORMATION OF A CITY-WIDE OPEN SPACE AND PARKLAND PRESERVATION DISTRICT The Santa Clarita Community expressed its desire to find a way to purchase and preserve open space and construct new and rehabilitate existing parks, as well as provide for their stewardship. This was documented in the City's strategic plan called the "Big Picture" and the Parks Recreation and Community Services Commissions' 2005 Priorities, as well as the City's Open Space Plan. In November 2004, the City Council directed staff to pursue the creation of a City-wide Open Space and Parkland Preservation District. Tonight's recommended action meets with that direction. The creation of a Preservation District will provide the necessary funds to begin the process to acquire both open space and parkland when opportunities for such acquisitions are made available, as well as provide the necessary funds for their stewardship. As you know, the City inherited an infrastructure deficit when it incorporated in 1987. For the last 17 years, the Council has worked to reduce this deficit. At the time of incorporation, there was 60 acres of active parkland. Today, this number has more than tripled, and we now have 220 acres of active park areas. The Council has also increased the amount of preserved open space by 2,000 acres. However, the City's goal is to have five acres of active parkland for every 1,000 residents. At today's population, that would be 800 acres. The Council also expressed a desire to complete a "greenbelt" of open space around the Santa Clarita Valley to preserve natural habitat and wild land areas. The formation of a City-wide preservation district would help the Council accomplish these goals. At tonight's joint study session meeting, staff will report on the steps it has taken thus far and provide information on what those steps mean toward the formation of a Preservation District. Staff has had the benefit of guidance from the City Council Open Space and Parkland Preservation District Ad Hoc Sub -Committee (Mayor Pro -tem Weste and Councilmember Ferry). A summary of these steps is provided below. Staff will expand on these steps during the meeting and be prepared to answer questions. Agenda Item: I FORMATION OF A CITY-WIDE OPEN SPACE AND PARKLAND PRESERVATION DISTRICT September 6, 2005 Page 2 • Engineer's Report — This document is required by State Law under the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972. This report determines the methodology and computations that connect a nexus of special benefit to property owners. • Funding Ratios between Open Space and Parkland — Staff worked with the Ad Hoc Committee on how, in the beginning years of the proposed District, revenues would be divided, 60% for open space acquisition and 40% for parkland development. The ratios may be adjusted by the Council, but to increase the fee or change how the fees would be used would require a vote of all property owners. • Open Space and Parkland Program — This document describes the value and need of more open space and parkland and lists parks projects which have been identified by the community as a high priority. The City Council may adjust these projects from time to time without triggering a re -balloting of property owners. • Education and Outreach — Staff completed two public education polls to help determine what property owners need to know before they vote on the formation of a Preservation District, should the Council choose to proceed at their September 13, 2005 City Council meeting. The polls assisted staff in the development of a frequently asked questions handout. Provided the information presented tonight is satisfactory to the City Council, staff will prepare a recommendation and agenda report for the regularly scheduled City Council meeting of September 13, 2005. The purpose of the recommendation and report will be to adopt a resolution to initiate the formation of a City-wide Open Space & Parkland Preservation District. Subsequent staff action would then initiate the mailing of ballots in early October, which must be returned within 45 days from the postmark. KP:DEL:hds Co..MD CON Study S,,io M.M Attachments Open Space and Parkland Program for the City of Santa Clarita FAQ for the Formation of an Open Space and Parkland Preservation District 2005 OPEN SPACE AND PARKLAND PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA Sub -Committee: Rick Gould, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Darren Hernandez, Director of Administrative Services Susan Andrade -Wax, Recreation Superintendent Elena Galvez, Management Analyst Gail Ortiz, Public Information Officer Kris Markarian, Senior Engineer Dave Peterson, Management Analyst Wayne Weber, Parks Superintendent Revised.• August 19, , 2005 PARKLAND AND OPEN SPACE PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA I. PURPOSE OF THE FUNDING MEASURE In order to assist the funding of the City's proposed Open Space and Parkand Preservation Program, the City Council has directed staff to explore the creation of a Parkland and Open Space Preservation District and to make recommendations on how to generate new local funding for open space, park acquisition, and facility construction throughout the community. To achieve this goal, a staff task force has convened several. strategy meetings to identify a parkland acquisition and development program for such a preservation district. The task group has drawn information from a variety of citizen and advisory bodies and has included information from the City Council's major goals, the Big Picture Citywide Strategic Plan, the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission's 2005 Priorities, and other significant City plans such as the Open Space Plan. A. Value of Open Space and Parks The variety of open space and parks in the Santa Clarita Valley, from the intensive use at Central Park to the pristine natural areas in Whitney Canyon, are a crucial component of the quality of life of local residents and the health of the community. Collectively, the open space and park resources provide many benefits: • Conserve land and air quality by protecting land adjacent to the City and by acting as a buffer to the urban region. • Protect the visual character, heritage, and beauty of the City and the Santa Clarita Valley. • Increase the property values and quality of life for residents. • Promote education opportunities for children and adults to learn about the area's natural and human history. • Create opportunities for people to play, hike, bike, and enjoy parks and recreation facilities. • Protect rich natural areas from development. • Protect habitat and conserve wildlife corridors. • Create a physical setting and amenities that attract and retain businesses, jobs, a vibrant culture, and talented people. City of Santa Clarita page 2 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 • Complement sound land use, planning, and efforts to address traffic problems. B. Present Challenges The growing regional economy can foster vibrant communities and create economic opportunity for City residents. However, this economic and population growth must be complemented with continued protection of our open spaces and the addition of parks and recreation opportunities if the area's quality of life is to be maintained. At the very least, the City should build upon its strong history of park stewardship, development, trail construction, and open space preservation. If the City wishes to pass on to future generations of residents a community that retains the attractions that drew them here, the community must continue to protect and enhance its parkland and open space. The City currently faces a deficit of over 600 acres of active parkland and continues to seek a greenbelt of open space around the Valley. C. Need for New Local Funding Meeting the challenge of protecting open space, acquiring new parkland, and developing new facilities will require funding. While the passage of State Bond measures in 2000 and 2002 have assisted the City in these efforts, and while the City has set aside significant General Fund dollars toward such amenities as Central Park and the Aquatics Center, more needs to be done in order to fund the City's Open Space and Parkland Preservation Program. A new local funding source can acquire new parkland outright, be used as a match for state grants, or provide the opportunity to take parcels into protected status away from development. Some additional reasons new local funding is needed are provided below: • Protection of open space and public land can help prevent runaway growth. • The creation of more open space and natural land helps improve air quality. • Well-maintained parks, trails, and recreation areas improve property values. • The City inherited a parks infrastructure deficit when it incorporated 17 years ago. • The goal is to have five acres of active parkland for every 1,000 residents. At today's population (169,500) that would be 847 acres. (City currently has 220 acres of active parkland.) • Recreation programs keep our youth out of trouble and away from crime, drugs, and gangs. City of Santa Clarita Page 3 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 Parks and open space improve our quality of life by expanding recreation opportunities for youth, seniors, and all residents. D. Types of Open Space and Parkland the Funding will Target The following category descriptions explain the variety of "Parkland and Open Space" actions that are needed in the City: • Open Space Preservation — This effort will seek to preserve and protect the open space areas around the Valley and further the City's goal to create a greenbelt around the Valley. • Regional and Community Facilities — These resources are consistent with Central Park and the Santa Clarita Sports Complex, and the Program will seek to complete these projects and find new opportunities for further facilities. • Neighborhood Park Construction and Reconstruction — Many of the City's older neighborhood parks are in need of renovation and reconstruction to bring the amenities to a standard that the community expects. • The Santa Clara River Watershed — To bring the last unchanneled river in Southern California into public ownership and protect its wild, valuable habitat has long been a City goal. • Trails — Santa Clarita is well known for its miles of scenic and effective bike and multi -use trails which link neighborhoods to parks and open space, yet many more critical linkages remain to be added and completed. • Wildlife Corridors — Protection and enhancement of the habitat of unique and valuable plants and animals is a critical goal. E. Funding Principles The following principles are the basis for the funding measure allocation categories and the criteria within each category. They will also guide the implementation of the Program, including the proposed assessment district, and serve as benchmarks for the Oversight Committee in reviewing project proposals. The following six principles are intended to maximize the public benefit derived from the Program, maintain the integrity of the assessment district, and assure fair and equitable distribution of revenues. A project need not address each of these eight principles to be funded, but the consistency with principles will be considered when allocations are determined. City of Santa Clarita page 4 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 1) To provide funding to help complete major Open Space and Parkland projects and programs of Citywide impact, scale, or scope. 2) To provide local matching funds as a way to attract state, federal, and foundation funds for specific Open Space and Parkland projects within the City. 3) To provide funding for park and recreation projects based on need as determined by locally elected and appointed officials. 4) To provide new methods for Open Space and Parkland preservation, including the appropriate use of conservation easements, connections among existing parks, trails, and protection of rivers and creeks. 5) To distribute the fund equitably throughout the City both geographically and demographically. 6) To assure that new and existing parks and open spaces receive the necessary stewardship. In addition, there are several principles that assure the taxpayers that the funds will be expended in a way that complement good public policy. These too will be used by the Oversight Committee to gauge the appropriateness of a project proposal. 7) To minimize impacts and respect adjacent property owners and the values they place on their property. 8) To rely on existing institutions to implement the Program, including the proposed assessment district, to the extent possible, so that funds are spent efficiently. 9) To reward projects with demonstrated community support. 10) To ensure that funded projects are feasible and have a credible plan for funding and performing needed long-term maintenance. 11) To acquire property and easements only from willing sellers. Finally, several additional principles are included to guard against unintended consequences. 12) The projects and programs in this Program are not land -use designations and shall not be used as such in the land -use planning process. 13) The terms of this Program shall govern all allocations of funds hereunder, notwithstanding any future policy or program related to parkland and open space acquisitions that may be adopted within the City of Santa Clarita. City of Santa Clarita Page 5 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 14)No funding from this Program shall be used to acquire lands for which there is an active development application, filed by a person with an ownership or equitable interest in the property, pending before a land use planning agency, without that person's consent. City of Santa Clarita Page 6 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised,- 8-29-05 IL GENERAL ALLOCATION OF FUNDS The general funding categories and allocations for the life of the Program are: $ XXX million for the total program budget with XX % going toward the proposed district, Parkland and Open Space Acquisition: 60% ($840,000 annually based on $1.4M revenue) Active Parkland Development: 40% ($560,000 annually based on $1.4M revenue) Proposed allocations should increase over time, based on any growth in revenue to the Program, including the proposed assessment district, on inflation rates, and on the amount of time that passes before the project is implemented. Stewardship funds shall be allocated by category on a pay-as-you-go basis (i.e., no borrowing shall occur against the revenue stream allocated for stewardship). The.Oversight Committee shall have the authority to amend these funding allocations as necessary in order to carry out the goals of the Program, provided the amount to be funded by the proposed assessment district shall not exceed 28% of the Cost of the Program Capital funds may be allocated annually as revenues accrue, or the Public Finance Authority (PFA) may determine to borrow against some, or all, of the anticipated revenue stream for capital projects in order to provide funding for acquisitions and other capital projects earlier than would be possible on a pay-as-you-go basis. Factors that will be considered include rates of interest and land value inflation. Funding allocations will be approved through the City's budget process. All funds from this Program will be spent on projects and activities within the Santa Clarita Valley. III. DESCRIPTION OF LAND ACQUISITION PROJECTS The City of Santa Clarita's Open Space Acquisition Plan, adopted by the City Council in August 2002, established a set of guidelines and policies for bringing open space in the Santa Clarita Valley into public ownership. The primary objective defined in the Open Space Plan is creating a "green belt" of open space around the City. The purpose of the green belt is to ensure the character and natural habitat of the pristine environment surrounding the City. In addition, the Open Space Plan also identifies finding open space within the City as a priority, not only as natural land, but as active park space as well. During the community process that helped form the Open Space Plan, staff was able to identify what members of the public consider open space to be. Open space was defined as vacant, undeveloped land in its natural state, as well as both active and passive park space. It should be noted that in order for park space to be considered open space, the park needed to be of regional size. A small neighborhood "tot lot," for example, would not be considered open space. However, the City's Central Park, Newhall Park, or Canyon Country Park (to name only a few) was considered to be open space. City of Santa Clarita page 7 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 The Open Space Plan's primary function as a planning tool is to identify sites that represent the best value for the City for acquisition. This is done by a set of established and approved criteria that can be applied to any potential property. At the same time, the Open Space Plan can be used to determine if a potential property does not represent a good value to the City. To establish a regional scope, the Open Space Plan identifies five key areas in the Santa Clarita Valley that are consistent with the City Council's direction for potential open space acquisition. These regions are: • Eastern Region: o Approximate Area: From the 14 Freeway east to the Angeles National Forest and from the intersection of the 5/14 Freeways north to Vasquez Rocks. o Goals: To create a continuous strip of open space along the eastern border of the City of Santa Clarita. Connect open space between the City boundary and the Angeles National Forest whenever possible. o Status: The City has made considerable progress in the eastern region. Currently open space property is in public ownership near the proposed Transit Mixed Concrete (TMC) project, Whitney Canyon, as well as several hundred acres associated with the Golden Valley Ranch development. In addition, Elsmere Canyon will likely be publicly held by Los Angeles County. The eastern region also includes Placenta Canyon and the Placerita Canyon Nature Center. • Southern Region: o Approximate Area: From the intersection of the 5/14 Freeways north to the City of Santa Clarita boundary and between the identified eastern and western regions. o Goals: Link natural habitat and habitat migration corridors between the eastern and western regions. o Status: Over 200 acres of open space will be dedicated to the City associated with the Gate -King project. This region also contains the historic Beale's Cut property. • Western Region: o Approximate Area: From the 5 Freeway to the Santa Susanna Mountains Significant Ecological Area, areas around Stevenson Ranch, and from the intersection of the 5/14 Freeways north along San Francisquito Creek. o Goals: To create a continuous strip of open space along the western border of the City of Santa Clarita. City of Santa Clarita page 8 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8.29-05 o Status: Several significant properties exist in the Region including the Santa Clarita Woodlands, Towsley Canyon, Mentryville, and 6,000 acres associated with the Newhall Ranch Development. • Northern Region: Approximate Area: From the northern boundary of the City of Santa Clarita north to the Angeles National Forest and from the 5 Freeway/Highway 126 interchange to Vasquez Rocks. o Goals: To create a continuous strip of open space along the northern border of the City of Santa Clarita. Connect open space between the City of Santa Clarita and the Angeles National Forest, whenever possible. o Status: Future development of this region should be monitored and open space dedication pursued whenever possible. • City of Santa Clarita: o Area: All areas contained within the defined boundaries of the City of Santa Clarita. o Goals: Work with all City departments, partners, and in conjunction with the Open Space Plan, the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, River Features Study, and other documents to acquire and protect open space, both active and passive, within the City limits. Work in partnership with the development community to secure open space through dedication. o Status: To date, the City has acquired 2,180 acres of open space and another 170 acres of passive or special use parkland and has developed 220 acres of parkland. The regions described above cover a significant area in the Valley. As a result, a considerable acreage of land must be considered and analyzed prior to deciding upon a set of properties to pursue. The Open Space Acquisition Plan can be used as a tool to assist the City Council and planners in determining which property or properties represent the best value for the City. IV. PARKLAND AND OPEN SPACE STEWARDSHIP Stewardship of protected lands and resources is an essential complement to the protection of all forms of parkland and open space in the City of Santa Clarita. Important parkland and open space stewardship activities include the management and restoration of sensitive resources, maintenance and operation of public facilities, park patrols, and the protection of public health and safety. City of Santa Clarita Page 9 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised. 8-29.05 To address these needs, a percentage of the allocation in the Parkland and Open Space Acquisition and Active Parkland Development categories under this Program will be apportioned to stewardship. This amount is expected to grow over time, as the acquisition phase of the Program is complete and the stewardship phase takes on more emphasis. V. PARKLAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS The proposed projects have been identified as immediate or long-term goals. Descriptions of the recommended projects are provided below. Projects are listed in alphabetical order. The attached map shows the general locations of these recommended projects. A. Immediate Goals • County Developed Parks Restoration Project $30 — $50 million This funding category will provide seed money for County -Developed Park projects located throughout the City of Santa Clarita. Specific objectives include: ➢ Conduct comprehensive review of existing facilities that are over 40 years old that include: Newhall Park, North Oaks Park, Old Orchard Park, Santa Clarita Park, Valencia Meadows Park, and Valencia Glen Park. ➢ Review to determine which park sites will need restoration of existing facilities and structures and which ones will warrant the need to be re -designed and re- developed. ➢ Projects may include, but are not limited to, the following amenities: multi -use sport fields, recreation and pool buildings, accessible playgrounds, picnic areas and barbeques, off -leash dog areas, and skate parks. • Multi -Use Sport Fields $12 million The acquisition and development of additional multi -use sport fields continue to be high on the priority list for this community, especially on the east side of the City. This is a 58 -acre site located on the banks of the Santa Clara River in Canyon Country, the east side of the City. This property could be partially developed as a park that includes active field areas, as determined through a master planning process. This project will provide for the expansion of the existing field inventory currently owned and operated by the City for youth and adult organized sports. • Rivendale Park $7.5 - $10 million City of Santa Clarita Page 10 Parkland & Open Space Program Reuiaed: 8-29-05 This is a 60 -acre passive, open space property fronting The Old Road and directly adjacent to Towsley Canyon State Park. This project could be partially developed for equestrian, nature center, and active field areas, as determined through a master planning process. • Santa Clarita Sports Complex Build Out $35 — $40 million Opportunities exist for an expansion of recreational facilities at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex which include additional gymnasium space, multi -use sport fields, a universally accessible playground, skate park expansion, parking, walkways, and landscaping. The park will also feature an off -leash dog park, outdoor performance area, gardens, and scenic overlooks. Santa Clarita Sports Complex is located at the corner of Ruether Avenue and Centre Pointe Parkway. • Whites Canyon Park $3.5 million The construction of Whites Canyon Park has long been a goal of the City and residents in the Canyon Country community. Located just north of Canyon High School, the neighborhood park will feature a tot lot, walkways and trails, informal grass play area, restrooms, parking lot, benches, and vista overlooks at several locations. Priority will be given to funding projects that maximize community use and address the demand for amenities and enhancements at each park. B. Long -Term Goals • Amphitheater $4 — $6 million The Santa Clarita Bowl will be a new amenity for the cultural life of our community. The amphitheater will have approximately 3,000 fixed seats, with a grassy area that will accommodate up to 2,000 more patrons. The entire facility will require about 12 acres for the amphitheater and the necessary parking. The Bowl will become the home for the City's popular Concerts in the Park series, as well as a venue to present both touring performers and local arts groups. The City will aggressively search for a private partner to help subsidize the construction and to manage and operate the facility. • Big League Dreams $15 - $20 million Big League Dreams is the premier developer and operator of amateur recreational sport facilities in the country. Their parks have been recognized as the "Best Sports Complexes in America" by the Sports Complex Owners and Developers Association, the `Best Public/Private Partnership" by the League of California Cities, and the "Business of the Year" in Cathedral City. City of Santa Clarita Page 11 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29.05 Their sports complexes have brought many benefits to the regions in which they operate, including an economic benefit. Big League Dreams brings a top-quality playing experience for local families through their world-class facilities in a variety of sports. A typical Big League Dreams facility offers baseball, softball, soccer, indoor soccer, in-line hockey, basketball, flag football, and sand volleyball for all ages. Since these parks can be built through a public/private partnership, this would allow the City to incur no maintenance or operational costs. Additionally, the City could participate in the revenue generated by Big League Dreams. • Central Park Recreation Facilities $15 — $20 million The build out of Central Park will include an additional 30 acres of recreational facilities focusing on a recreation center, pool, and tennis complex. This phase of the park will truly define Central Park as a recreational destination for the Valley and is located off Bouquet Canyon Road. The recreation center at Central Park will provide the community additional amenities for all ages and interests. The center will include classrooms for a variety of activities and meetings and an additional gymnasium and recreation pool. This phase of the park will truly define Central Park as a recreational destination for the Valley and is located off Bouquet Canyon Road. The tennis complex at Central Park will feature 12 regulation courts with one center court. The venue will provide for recreational play, lessons, and competitive tournaments. This facility was identified by the community during the Park Master Plan as one of the higher priority projects due to the shortage of available public tennis courts currently available in the Valley. • Canyon Country Park — Phase II $4 million Located off Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country Park was the first park the City constructed after incorporation. At the time, funding was only available for the first phase of this project which included a recreation building, ball fields, play areas, walkways, and landscaping. Phase II will complete the project and includes the construction of a recreation pool, showers, and locker facility. • Discovery Park $6.5 million Immediately adjacent to the Santa Clara River near Camp Plenty Road is the City's future Discovery Park. This project includes passive recreational opportunities for the community in the park while also offering a direct connection with the regional Santa Clara River Trail. The park will feature walkways and picnic areas surrounding a City of Santa Clarita Page 12 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 1.5 -acre pond. Also included are a tot lot play area, restroom facility, parking, and an informal open turf area. • Trail Enhancement and Development $10 — $15 million. Continued development of the City trail system will complete gaps that currently exist and help connect additional segments of the Valley to the system. Trails are used as an alternative transportation mode, as well as for recreation. This project would include multi -use and Class I off-street trails, which provide safe transportation options to the community. Funding for this project will be used to expand trails for bicyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians. • Pioneer Oil Refinery Restoration $1 million The Pioneer Oil Refinery is a designated state historical site that represents the first commercial oil refinery in the Western United States. Located in the Newhall community, the refinery offers educational opportunities for all ages. Unfortunately, over the years the refinery has deteriorated significantly and is in need of restoration. This project will restore the refinery to a representation depicting its condition during active use more than 100 years ago. VI. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION The Oversight Committee shall be responsible for overseeing the implementation of this funding measure. The five -member Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission shall serve as the Oversight Committee. Responsibilities of the Oversight Committee shall be as follows: A. Guide the administration of the funding mechanism consistent with the funding principles described above. B. Determine the priorities for the expenditure of funds. C. Ensure that matching funds stretch the use of new funds. D. Balance competing demands for funding geographically. E. Conduct an annual review of funded projects and to oversee the preparation of an annual report by staff. F. Conduct other actions necessary to implement the funding mechanism. City of Santa Clarita Page 13 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised. 8-29-05 The Oversight Committee will operate in accordance with the Brown Act. All meetings shall be open to the public. VII. FUNDING MECHANISM A Benefit Assessment District approach is the recommended method for implementing the funding of a portion of this Program. Assessment districts place a charge on real property to pay for the special benefit conveyed to that property from a government service. The amount assessed is determined by an engineer's report that distributes the cost of the government services according to benefit received by each property. Assessments must be approved by a weighted majority of property owners in an assessment ballot procedure conducted by mail. Ballots are weighted according to the amount of assessment that would be paid. After considering a comprehensive evaluation of available mechanisms and presenting these options to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission and the City Council, it was concluded that the Assessment District approach was the best match for a new funding mechanism for the Open Space and Parkland Preservation Program. City of Santa Clarita Page 14 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised: 8-29-05 Attachment A: Comparison on Funding Mechanisms A thorough review of potential funding mechanisms was conducted by staff. The evaluation process initially focused on a comprehensive summary of all available mechanisms for raising local public funds for parkland and open space preservation. The table below compares the features of the three alternative funding approaches that were the most feasible alternatives: City of Santa Clarita Page 15 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised., 8-29-05 General Obligation Benefit Assessment Bond Special Tax District How are funds Increase in ad valorem Tax on individual parcels Assessment on property generated? tax on property tax Who pays? Property owners — Property owners — tax Property owners — based properties within a higher rates are determined on engineers' report that net assessed value pay within the measure by the distributes costs more. framers according to benefits What voting 2/3 majority 2/3 majority Simple majority — margin is required Avoid majority protest forapproval? What type of Special or General Special or General Assessment Ballot election? Election Election Procedure by mail What are the time Two elections per year, Two elections per year, Ballot Procedure may be constraints on the though odd years are though odd years are convened at anytime. 45 election? more expensive more expensive days must allowed for return of ballots Costs of election Depends on how many Depends on how many Depends upon how many items on ballot items on ballot parcels included. Possible to fund Acquisition and Acquisition, const., Acquisition, const., construction maint., & equipment maint., & equipment Fixed term Yes No No required? Possible to sell Yes (required) Yes Yes bonds? Advantages Simple — only way to Possible customize tax Perhaps more equity in raise ad valorem tax rate distribution of costs Best interest rate Flexibility in use of Flexibility in use of revenues revenues Ballot Procedure may occur at any time City of Santa Clarita Page 15 Parkland & Open Space Program Revised., 8-29-05 Attachment B Proposed Estimated Program Budget FY 2006 - 2007 City of Santa Clarita Page 16 Parkland & Open Space Program Reoiaed: 8-29-05 Santa Clarita Open Space & Parkland Preservation District FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Parkland and Open Space: General Information What is the purpose of an Open Space and Parkland Preservation Assessment District? Recent development plans have been approved for areas around our City include more than 60,000 additional housing units, in addition to construction on thousands of units already underway. This growth will increase traffic congestion and impact local parks and recreational facilities within the City. That's why the Santa Clarita City Council is interested in forming an Open Space and Parkland Preservation District. The District will help the City: • Purchase land and create protected open space in and around the city. • Renovate older neighborhood parks with new grass fields, play areas and restroom facilities. • Create trails and wildlife corridors in and around the city. What is the duration of the Preservation District? The Open Space and Parkland Preservation District will be an annual assessment with no sunset provision. Who decides if the district is going to be created? The City will send ballots to the owners of every parcel of property in the City. If 50% or more of the weighted ballots returned to the City Clerk approve of the District proposal, then it can be formed. The value of each ballot is weighted based on the amount of the assessment that property owner would have to pay, should the District be formed. Do you have any examples of successful Districts? There are many successful Districts around the State including the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, Ventura County and the City of Palmdale We as City residents are paying for this, yet unincorporated residents will also reap the benefits, what gives? At this time, the District will not be expanded beyond the City's boundaries. Unincorporated residents can utilize City park programs except for fully -utilized programs which have a priority registration for City residents. With the creation of this new District, the City can limit the growth and development of more housing by buying that land that could otherwise be used for development, thus improving our quality of life. Also, it is possible that a "non-resident fee" for City park programs could be implemented in the City. Many other cities already have such a non-resident fee in place. What are the chances of a future City Council selling these lands for development? Is the City going to deed restrict the land? The City Council will deed restrict any purchases made from District funds, thus insuring that the lands purchased are saved from development in perpetuity. Who is accountable? Will there be an Oversight Committee accountable for these funds? There will be several layers of oversight. There will be a financial oversight and audit committee appointed by the City Council to provide oversight of the funds. In addition, the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission will have input into the expenditure of these funds. Ultimately, the ' City Council will make the final decisions as to where these funds are spent and public hearings will be held. Funds can only be spent on parkland, stewardship and open space. Who will be represented on the Financial Oversight and Audit Committee? How do you ensure that the committee isn't tailored to meet one specific interest or group? The City Council is interested in selecting residents from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, education, geographic areas of the City and interest areas. This will help to insure that a broad spectrum of thoughts, ideas and recommendations are brought forth. Will this new Open Space and Preservation District slow growth? Yes. The district will have an impact on the amount and rate of growth by buying land and protecting it as permanent open space and taking it off the open market. It will also help us finish the greenbelt around the City which serves as a buffer to development. What happens if this Open Space and Preservation District does not pass? If it does not pass, the City will probably not be able to purchase the amount of open space needed to have an impact on growth and development. Parks won't be built as quickly. Existing parks won't be refurbished as quickly if ever and new facilities won't come on line as quickly. Does the Open Space and Preservation District just have provisions for the purchase of land for open space and parks, or does it also include construction and maintenance of parks and land as well? The Preservation District would include provisions for the purchase of land for open space and parks, as well as for construction and maintenance of the parks and land. I understand that the majority of development in this Valley is actually occurring outside the City boundaries, in the County, unincorporated area. How do you justify having City residents pay for new open space and parkland acquisitions when the County is actually the primary agency bringing in the majority of housing development? The Preservation District would give the City a seat at the table to purchase land that could otherwise be developed. Right now, there is a small window of opportunity to purchase land that would likely become new housing developments. Providing City residents with a green belt buffer around the City and adding more parcels earmarked for open space and parkland is a key tool for the City to preserve our quality of life and protect us from development. Costs Associated with a Open Space and Parkland Preservation District What is the break down for expenditures of these District funds? The funds generated by the District can only be spent on open space and parkland projects. The City anticipates using approximately 60% for open space and parkland acquisition and 40% for facilities and renovations of parks. How much will the City see per year from the formation of this District? The City estimates it will collect about $1.4 million per year from the assessments. How will the funds be managed? All funds collected by the assessment district will be held by the City of Santa Clarita in a special account and can only be used for the purposes set forth in the engineer's report. An annual audit must be conducted on funds expended. An annual public hearing must also be held on the preservation district budget. Do I pay $25 per year no matter the size of my lot or house? The assessment is based on the benefit each parcel receives from the improvements and maintenance provided by the district. All single family homes are considered to derive the same benefit, no matter the size of the lot or home. The cost to City homeowners would be about $25 per year. Commercial, industrial and multi -family parcels will be assessed at a rate commensurate with the benefit those properties will receive. Is the $25 a year fixed for life? Under Proposition 218, any increase in the assessment must be approved by a vote of district property owners. The $25 rate is the maximum rate authorized for fiscal year 2006-2007. This maximum allowable rate will change each year with the annual change to the cost of living, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The actual rate charged each year will be decided by the City Council at an annual public hearing and cannot exceed the annual maximum rate without going through another balloting process. The CPI increase for the Los Angeles area has recently averaged approximately 3%. Can the City raise the increase above the CPI? No. The only way the City could increase the amount above the CPI is with approval by property owners through the ballot procedure, like we are doing right now to form the District. What about mobile homes, condos and apartments? Mobile homes, condos and apartments are not exempt from the assessment. These types of properties will pay less than a single-family home on a per - dwelling unit basis. Condos and apartment owners will pay three-quarters of the amount per dwelling unit, and a mobile home in a mobile home park will pay half of the amount. Please note that only property owners will receive a ballot. Renters and those who do not own property within the City will not be sent a ballot. Isn't this another tax? The Preservation District is legally classified as a benefit assessment district, not a tax because the assessment must be proportional to the special benefits received by each property within the City If I'm a renter and the property owner is going to just pass the cost of this onto me, why don't I have a say? How can I, as a renter, be an advocate? State law requires that only property owners get to cast ballots in assessment proceedings, as they will be paying the assessments as part of their property tax bills. As a renter, you can contact the property owner and let him or her know how you feel about the proposed District, and you can be an advocate by contacting any Advocacy Group that is formed to support or oppose this effort. I'm on a fixed income, are there exemptions for seniors? State law allows seniors who meet certain requirements to postpone payment of their property taxes, including benefit assessments. For more information, go to http://www.sco.ca.gov/col/taxinfo/ptp/index.shtml or call 1-800-952-5661. Is this District a tax deduction for me as a property owner? The District's assessment will appear on your Property tax bill. You should discuss whether or not to claim this as a tax deduction with your tax preparer. Will developers still have to pay for their fair share for parks in the City? The City charges developers a special park fee called QUMMY that will still be charged to developers with the passage of this Preservation District. Can the City use its eminent domain powers to purchase property that would be paid for from the Preservation District? Yes, the City could use its eminent domain powers to purchase property for open space or parkland only. Is the amount that would be derived from the passage of this Preservation District really enough to purchase land and build new parks? The amount the City would receive annually from the assessment is about $1.4 million. In addition to this, the assessment district requires the City Council provide additional funding for the Preservation District program and the City would also have the option to bond, thus providing a larger lump sum for land acquisition and building and refurbishing parks. Community Benefits Why is the preservation district beneficial for property owners? More open space and parkland in the city increases property values and makes the city more desirable. The preservation of open space will also slow the rate of growth in and around the City. What's this greenbelt around the City? For several years, the City has been working to purchase land around the City to create a buffer zone of preserved, undeveloped property called a greenbelt. At this time, about 50% has been acquired as open space to be preserved in perpetuity. The funds from this District will help guarantee that this effort is continued and completed. Is the City restricted to purchasing open space in the City? The City can purchase land both inside and outside the City limits. Will the open space areas all be closed to the public or will some of it be available for public use, such as for hiking? The open space areas will mainly be preserved for habitat preservation and as a buffer and not available for future development, however, the open space areas could be used for what's called passive recreation, which includes hiking and viewing. Does the City own land right now that could be developed as parks, field space, trails, etc. with the funds from the passage of this Open Space and Preservation District? Yes, the City does own land and has plans completed for park and trail projects that could be completed with the passage of this Preservation District. Community Outreach How are the property owners going to be informed ahead of time about this? The City will be providing educational materials via brochures, a website at www.morenarklandandopensRace.com. Speakers from the community will also be available to address local groups. If you are interested in a speaker addressing your group, contact the City at 661-286-4068. Ballots, along with the instructions on casting your ballot and information about the Preservation District, will be mailed at least 45 days prior to the date required for return of the ballots. How will you communicate to the out of the area property owners? All property owners who own property within the City—regardless of where they live -- will be receiving a ballot via mail that has information about the District, as well as the same educational materials that will be sent within the City. Voting/Ballot Information How many parcels in the City will be receiving the ballot? We estimate that there are approximately 48,000 parcels within the City and each will be sent a ballot. What does the balloting process entail? The proceedings which govern the balloting process and establishment of the district is done in strict compliance with the 1996 Taxpayers Right to Vote on Taxes Act (Proposition 218), which was authored by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayer's Association, and its implementing legislation. All property owners are mailed a notice and ballot at least 45 days before a Public Hearing. Ballots must be returned before the end of the public hearing for them to count. Ballots are weighted by each property's proposed assessment amount. If 50% or more of the weighted ballots cast are in support of the District, then the City Council can form it, otherwise, the District cannot be formed. How many votes count per household? Only property owners can participate in the balloting and each property casts only one ballot per property. The value of each ballot is weighted based on the amount of the assessment that property would have to pay, should the district be formed. If the property has multiple owners, only one property owner needs to sign the ballot. If more than one property owner wishes to cast a ballot, arrangements may be made for proportional ballots to be issued, but the total weight of the property's entire ballot would not change. What's the minimum number of votes needed for this to be a legitimate process? There is no minimum needed, which is why it is so important that property owners return their ballots. What is Proposition 218? Passed in 1996, Proposition 218 — the Taxpayers Right to Vote on Taxes Act — limits the authority of local governments to impose taxes and property -related assessments, fees and charges. Any proposed assessments, fees or charges must be submitted to the property owners for approval or rejection. How does Proposition 218 apply to the preservation assessment district? The proceedings which govern the balloting process and establishment of the district is in strict compliance with the 1996 Taxpayers Right to Vote on Taxes Act (Proposition 218), which was authored by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayer's Association, and its implementing legislation. The basic premise of the law is that only property owners (as opposed to renters or residents outside of the assessment districts) should be able to vote on a new assessment on their property. The only way to reach all property owners (including unregistered voters) is by mailed ballot.