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Recreation and Parks Commission

Regular Meeting

Santa Maria, CA · July 14, 2026

Agenda
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Agenda

Chair Cynthia Gudino Commissioner Rebecca Carey Commissioner Sally Lopez Commissioner Jose Ramirez Commissioner Yolanda Zamora Recreation and Parks Commission Agenda Tuesday, July 14, 2026, 4:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers 110 East Cook Street Santa Maria “Santa Maria Recreation and Parks provides enriching opportunities to play, learn, contemplate, and build community. We promote responsible stewardship of the environment, healthy people, and a strong community.” HOW TO ACCESS MEETINGS 1 . T h e i n t e r a c t i v e a g e n d a c a n b e v i e w e d a t https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/city-clerk-records/agenda-center- meetingsportal 72 hours in advance of the meeting. 2. Meetings are available on demand at YouTube.com/@CityofSantaMariaCalifornia the day following the meeting. Attendance at public meetings may result in the streaming and recording of your image and/or voice. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, if you require a disability-related modification or accommodation to attend or participate in this meeting, including auxiliary aids or services, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 925-0951 extension 2306, or by email at cityclerk@cityofsantamaria.org at least 48 hours before the meeting. Assisted Listening devices are available for those who attend in Council Chambers. PUBLIC COMMENT (letters/emails) (Must be received by 1:00 p.m. in advance of the meeting) Members of the public wishing to submit a public comment or a comment on an agenda item, can email RP-Clerk@cityofsantamaria.org or mail to the Recreation and Parks Commission, Attn.: Director of Recreation and Parks, 615 South McClelland Street, Santa Maria, CA 93454. Letters/emails will not be read aloud during the meeting. All correspondence will be distributed to Commissioners, submissions received after the deadline will not be processed until the following day but will become a part of the official record. MEETINGS The Recreation and Parks Commission holds regular meetings on the Second Tuesday of every month. Regular meetings start at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 110 East Cook Street, Santa Maria, California. Special and Adjourned Regular meetings start time are to be determined. POSTING LOCATIONS OF AGENDA AND/OR CANCELLATION NOTICES Regular meeting agendas will be posted at least 72 hours before the meeting (GC§ 54954(a)(1)). Agenda and Cancellation Notices can be viewed online and are also posted at the following two locations: Santa Maria City Hall located at 110 East Cook Street, Santa Maria, California, and Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Administration Office located at 615 South McClelland Street, Santa Maria, California. Pages 1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. CALL MEETING TO ORDER Commission Chair Gudino to call the meeting to order. 3. CONSENT CALENDAR a. Approval of Minutes 4 Review and approve the minutes from the regular meeting of June 9, 2026. 4. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD (Not to Exceed 15 Minutes) Speakers may provide public comments on any matter within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Commission. Each speaker will be limited to 3 minutes, maximum 15 minutes for Public Comment Period. Unless a majority of the Commission objects, the Chair may provide speakers more or less time to speak. All comments or queries shall be addressed to the Commission as a body and not to any specific member thereof. Pursuant to Government Code §54954.2(a)(2), the Ralph M. Brown Act, no action or discussion by the Commission shall be undertaken on any item not appearing on the posted agenda, except to briefly provide information, ask for clarification, provide direction to staff, or schedule a matter for a future meeting. 5. PRESENTATIONS a. Aquatics Program Presentation- Rudy Gutierrez 6. REGULAR BUSINESS a. Consideration of Historic Landmark Nomination Review for Elks Field 8 and Simas Park Baseball Fields The Recreation and Parks Commission will consider authorizing staff to forward the Historic Landmark nomination materials for Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields to the Planning Commission for report and recommendation. 7. REPORTS BY STAFF 8. ORAL REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS 9. ADJOURNMENT The next regular meeting is to be held on Tuesday, August 11, at 4:00 p.m., in the City Hall Council Chambers, 110 East Cook Street Santa Maria, CA 93454. Page 2 of 91 I, Ramon Galo, hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing agenda was posted not less than 72 hours at the following locations: City of Santa Maria City Hall and the Recreation and Parks Administration office made available at https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/city-clerk- records/agenda-center-meetings-portal on this ##th day of MONTH YEAR. /s/ RAMON GALO Recreation and Parks Director Page 3 of 91 RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES June 9, 2026, 4:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers 110 East Cook Street Santa Maria Members Present: Commissioner Rebecca Carey, Chair Cynthia Gudino, Commissioner Sally Lopez, Commissioner Jose Ramirez, Commissioner Yolanda Zamora Staff Present: Business Program Leader Neville Smeda, Interim Director of Recreation and Parks Dennis Smitherman, Administrative Assistant Shannon Mendez, and, Assistant Director Angela Oslund, Director of Recreation and Parks Ramon Galo _____________________________________________________________________ 1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2. CALL MEETING TO ORDER Commission Chair Gudino called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. 3. CONSENT CALENDAR 3.a Approval of Minutes Moved by: Commissioner Sally Lopez Seconded by: Commissioner Rebecca Carey Approved 4. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD (Not to Exceed 15 Minutes) There were no requests to speak. 5. PRESENTATIONS 5.a Introduction of Recreation and Parks Director- Ramon Galo Director Galo introduced himself to the Commission and expressed his enthusiasm for joining the City of Santa Maria. He thanked staff and the community for their warm welcome and stated his commitment to serving the community and enhancing recreation and park services. 1 Page 4 of 91 5.b Youth and Teen Presentation - Jeanette Blanco Recreation Coordinator Jeanette Blanco presented the annual report for the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center, highlighting accomplishments from the past year. Key highlights included:  More than 1,600 teens served through programs and events.  A 15 percent increase in annual participation compared to the previous year.  Expansion of teen programming, including leadership, workforce development, arts, recreation, and female-focused initiatives.  Increased school outreach efforts, including visits to 13 schools and participation in community events.  Development of new community partnerships and receipt of grant funding for future programming.  Facility improvements, including lighting upgrades, security enhancements, and public art installations. Commissioners discussed opportunities for additional programming, including self-defense classes, and transportation challenges affecting teen participation. 6. REPORTS BY STAFF Business Manager Report Business Manager, Neville Smeda, provided an overview of the City's proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget and its impact on the Recreation and Parks Department. Highlights included:  Proposed Department budget reductions totaling approximately $1.6 million.  Potential elimination of vacant positions and limited-service staffing hours.  Approved fee increases for facility rentals, picnic sites, sports fields, and Los Flores Ranch parking.  Recent hiring efforts that resulted in 15 limited-service employees joining the department. Parks Operations Report Angela Oslund reported on recent operational activities, including:  Support for community events such as the West Coast Kustoms Car Cruise and Elks Rodeo.  Progress on the Crossroads Basin renovation project.  Landscape maintenance efforts throughout the City. 2 Page 5 of 91  Improvements completed at the Youth Center. Commissioners discussed irrigation practices and maintenance concerns in several park and landscape areas. Recreation Services Manager Report Recreation Services Manager, Dennis Smitherman, recognized Department staff for their continued dedication and accomplishments. He noted increased participation in Department programs and highlighted successful partnerships and community events. Director's Report Director Galo shared observations from his first week with the City, praising the professionalism, experience, and commitment of Department staff. He expressed appreciation for the community's welcoming atmosphere and stated he looks forward to working with staff and the Commission. 7. ORAL REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Reports Commissioner Carey: Reported that local baseball coach Eddie Navarro submitted a request to recognize historical sports locations and notable coaches in Santa Maria; Commissioner Carey requested that the item be brought forward for future discussion and possible consideration by the Recreation and Parks Commission and Landmark Committee. Other recent community events or meetings attended include: Dog Park opening, Tree Divided webinar, Earth Day Celebration- Machado Plaza, Arbor Day tree planting at Bob Orach Park, Serve Santa Maria; Pioneer Park project, Mayor's Youth Task Force college tour to Los Angeles area, a zoom meeting on Fundamentals of Municipal Finances and Financial Management, and a CPRS webinar on the Brown Act. Commissioner Zamora: Attended the Dog Park opening, Earth Day, a Zoom meeting on the Fundamentals of Municipal Finances and Financial Management, and the Japanese Community Center Ribbon Cutting. Commissioner Lopez: Attended a couple of fundraisers, including the Boys and Girls Club, the Breakfast Rotary Club, and the Allan Hancock Boosters Club. Also attended Chamber of Commerce events and the Japanese Community Center Ribbon Cutting. Commissioner Ramirez: 3 Page 6 of 91 Attended the Dog Park opening, West Coast Kustoms Cruise Night, and the Japanese Community Center Ribbon Cutting. Commissioner Gudino: Attended a Zoom meeting on the Fundamentals of Municipal Finances and Financial Management, the Japanese Community Center Ribbon Cutting, and had an introductory meeting with Councilmember Richard Batalla and Director Galo. 8. ADJOURNMENT Commission Chair Gudino adjourned the meeting at 5:07 p.m. _________________________ Ramon Galo, Secretary 4 Page 7 of 91 COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT TO: Recreation and Parks Commission FROM: Dennis Smitherman, Recreation Services Manager DATE: 7/14/2026 SUBJECT: Consideration of Historic Landmark Nomination Review for Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields Description: The Recreation and Parks Commission will consider authorizing staff to forward the Historic Landmark nomination materials for Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields to the Planning Commission for report and recommendation. RECOMMENDATION Adopt a Resolution authorizing staff to forward the nomination materials for Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields to the Planning Commission for a report and recommendation regarding potential Historic Landmark designation, consistent with Santa Maria Municipal Code Chapter 8-3. BACKGROUND The Recreation and Parks Department received interest in recognizing the historical significance of Elks Field and the baseball fields at Simas Park. The supporting materials submitted identify both locations as important sites in Santa Maria’s recreational, athletic, and community history. Elks Field is identified in the submitted materials as having been dedicated in 1948 and as the home of the semi-professional Santa Maria Indians, established in 1944. The materials also reference notable baseball history connected to the field, including the Santa Maria Indians’ 1982 National Baseball Congress World Series Championship and games or appearances involving teams such as the Kansas City Monarchs, Tokyo Giants, and Los Angeles Dodger rookies. The Simas Park Baseball Fields are identified in the materials as being associated with the early development of youth baseball in Santa Maria, including the first Santa Maria Valley Little League field in 1950. The materials also identify the east field at Simas Park as the home field associated with the 1981 Orcutt Express ASA National Senior Girls Fast Pitch Softball Championship team. The City’s Historic Landmark and Items of Historical Merit process recognizes places, sites, structures, works of art, and objects with special historical, cultural, aesthetic, or Page 8 of 91 public interest. Historic Landmark designation generally requires that the site be within City limits, be at least 50 years old, have broad public significance, not harm the general welfare, not require unreasonable public funds, and respect the property owner’s reasonable use of the property DISCUSSION Santa Maria Municipal Code Chapter 8-3 authorizes the Recreation and Parks Commission to receive and act upon applications from interested persons to investigate and designate places, sites, buildings, structures, works of art, and other objects within the incorporated limits of the City as having historic, cultural, aesthetic, or other special character or interest. For a proposed Historic Landmark designation, the Recreation and Parks Commission must refer the application to the Planning Commission for a report and recommendation before further action is taken. The Planning Commission report may include review of General Plan compatibility, general public interest, zoning, traffic, or other issues that may be affected by or created by the proposed designation. The materials submitted appear to support further review of both Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields due to their connection to organized baseball, youth sports, semi- professional baseball, women’s fast pitch softball, and broader community recreation history in Santa Maria. Referral to the Planning Commission does not approve Historic Landmark designation. Rather, it allows the required review process to move forward so the Planning Commission may provide its report and recommendation back to the Recreation and Parks Commission. After receiving the Planning Commission’s report, the Recreation and Parks Commission may consider whether to recommend Historic Landmark designation to the City Council. If the Commission determines that Historic Landmark designation is not appropriate, the Commission may also consider whether recognition as an Item of Historical Merit would be more appropriate, subject to applicable requirements. Alternative(s) The Recreation and Parks Commission may: 1. Adopt the Resolution and authorize staff to forward the nomination materials to the Planning Commission for report and recommendation. 2. Direct staff to gather additional information before forwarding the matter to the Planning Commission. 3. Decline to move the nomination forward for Historic Landmark review. 4. Direct staff to return with an alternative recommendation related to recognition as an Item of Historical Merit Fiscal Considerations There is no direct fiscal impact associated with forwarding the nomination materials to the Planning Commission for review. Page 9 of 91 Impact to the Community Forwarding the nomination materials to the Planning Commission allows the City to continue evaluating the historical and cultural significance of Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields. These sites appear to represent important parts of Santa Maria’s recreational history and may provide educational and community value by recognizing the role of baseball and softball in the City’s development, identity, and public life. ATTACHMENTS A: Resolution- Landmark Nomination Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields B: Historic Landmark Nomination Materials for Elks Field C: Commissioner’s Guide and Review Checklist Page 10 of 91 Attachment A RESOLUTION NO. 2026-04 RESOLUTION OF THE RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA MARIA, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING STAFF TO FORWARD HISTORIC LANDMARK NOMINATION MATERIALS FOR ELKS FIELD AND SIMAS PARK BASEBALL FIELDS TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR REPORT AND RECOMMENDATION WHEREAS, the City of Santa Maria recognizes the importance of preserving and celebrating places, sites, structures, works of art, and objects that reflect the City’s history, culture, and community character; and WHEREAS, Santa Maria Municipal Code Chapter 8-3 establishes procedures for the designation of historical landmarks and items of historical merit within the incorporated limits of the City; and WHEREAS, the Recreation and Parks Commission is authorized to receive and act upon applications from interested persons to investigate and designate places, sites, buildings, structures, works of art, and other objects as having historic, cultural, aesthetic, or other special character or interest; and WHEREAS, the Recreation and Parks Department received interest and supporting materials regarding the possible historic recognition of Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields; and WHEREAS, the submitted materials identify Elks Field as a historically significant baseball site, including its dedication in 1948, its association with the Santa Maria Indians, and its connection to notable baseball events and teams; and WHEREAS, the submitted materials identify Simas Park Baseball Fields as historically significant due to their association with the early development of Little League baseball in the Santa Maria Valley and the 1981 Orcutt Express ASA National Senior Girls Fast Pitch Softball Championship team; and WHEREAS, Santa Maria Municipal Code Chapter 8-3 requires that an application for Historic Landmark designation be referred to the Planning Commission for a report and recommendation prior to further action by the Recreation and Parks Commission; and WHEREAS, referral of the nomination materials to the Planning Commission does not approve Historic Landmark designation but allows the required review process to proceed. NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the Recreation and Parks Commission of Santa Maria, California, as follows: SECTION 1. The Recreation and Parks Commission authorizes staff to forward the Historic Landmark nomination materials for Elks Field and Simas Park Baseball Fields Page 11 of 91 Attachment A to the Planning Commission for report and recommendation, consistent with Santa Maria Municipal Code Chapter 8-3; and SECTION 2. The Planning Commission report may include, but is not limited to, review of General Plan compatibility, general public interest, zoning, traffic, property considerations, and any other matters relevant to the proposed Historic Landmark designation; and SECTION 3. Following receipt of the Planning Commission’s report and recommendation, staff shall return the matter to the Recreation and Parks Commission for further consideration; and SECTION 4. The Recreation and Parks Commission may, after receiving the Planning Commission report, determine whether to recommend Historic Landmark designation to the City Council or consider other appropriate recognition, including designation as an Item of Historical Merit if applicable. PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Commission held this 14th day of July 2026. Ayes: Noes: Absent: CITY OF SANTA MARIA, CALIFORNIA By: _________________________ Cynthia Gudino, Chair ATTEST: By: ___________________________________ Ramon Galo, Director/Secretary Page 12 of 91 Attachment B Page 13 of 91 Page 14 of 91 Page 15 of 91 Page 16 of 91 Page 17 of 91 Page 18 of 91 Page 19 of 91 Page 20 of 91 Page 21 of 91 Page 22 of 91 Page 23 of 91 Page 24 of 91 Page 25 of 91 Page 26 of 91 Page 27 of 91 Page 28 of 91 Page 29 of 91 Page 30 of 91 Page 31 of 91 Page 32 of 91 Page 33 of 91 Page 34 of 91 Page 35 of 91 Page 36 of 91 Page 37 of 91 Page 38 of 91 Page 39 of 91 Page 40 of 91 Page 41 of 91 Page 42 of 91 Page 43 of 91 Page 44 of 91 Page 45 of 91 Page 46 of 91 Page 47 of 91 Page 48 of 91 Page 49 of 91 Page 50 of 91 Page 51 of 91 Page 52 of 91 Page 53 of 91 Page 54 of 91 Page 55 of 91 Page 56 of 91 Page 57 of 91 Page 58 of 91 Page 59 of 91 Page 60 of 91 Page 61 of 91 Page 62 of 91 Page 63 of 91 Page 64 of 91 Page 65 of 91 Page 66 of 91 Page 67 of 91 Page 68 of 91 Page 69 of 91 Page 70 of 91 Page 71 of 91 Page 72 of 91 Page 73 of 91 Page 74 of 91 Page 75 of 91 Page 76 of 91 Page 77 of 91 Page 78 of 91 Page 79 of 91 Page 80 of 91 Page 81 of 91 Page 82 of 91 Page 83 of 91 Page 84 of 91 Attachment C City of Santa Maria Historic Landmark & Items of Historical Merit Committee Commissioner’s Guide & Review Checklist PURPOSE To help preserve Santa Maria’s heritage by evaluating applications for designation of places, structures, works of art, and objects with historical, cultural, or aesthetic significance. Commissioners ensure nominations meet standards outlined in Santa Maria Municipal Code (SMCC) Chapter 8-3. COMMITTEE ROLE As a Commissioner, you are responsible for:  Reviewing and assessing applications fairly and objectively  Ensuring the nomination aligns with the intent of SMCC 8-3  Confirming that nominated items are within the City limits  Making thoughtful recommendations to the Recreation & Parks Commission  Communicating with staff and stakeholders respectfully and transparently  Participating in site visits when necessary  Refraining from conflicts of interest and upholding public trust DESIGNATION TYPES 1. Historic Landmark A place, site, building, structure, work of art, or object that is:  At least 50 years old  Of historic, cultural, aesthetic, or special interest to the general public  Suitable for long-term protection or preservation 2. Item of Historical Merit A location, object, structure, or artwork that may not qualify as a landmark but still:  Has unique aesthetic, cultural, or historical value  Deserves public recognition (without regulatory conditions) Page 85 of 91 Attachment C REVIEW CHECKLIST 🔲 LOCATION  ☐ Is the item within the incorporated limits of the City of Santa Maria? 🔲 BASIC ELIGIBILITY  ☐ Is the application complete and includes narrative, photos, and a location map?  ☐ If applying for Landmark status, is the item at least 50 years old? 🔲 HISTORICAL OR CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE  ☐ Is the item associated with a significant event, person, period, or movement?  ☐ Does it reflect a distinctive architectural style, art form, or construction method?  ☐ Does it provide cultural or educational value to the broader public? 🔲 COMMUNITY CONSIDERATIONS  ☐ Would designation benefit the public without negatively affecting the property owner’s rights?  ☐ Would the designation result in unreasonable public expenditure or maintenance costs?  ☐ Is the owner supportive of designation (required for merit status)? ACTION STEPS FOR COMMISSIONERS 1. Review the application materials thoroughly 2. Request a site visit if additional context is needed 3. Deliberate with the committee at a scheduled meeting 4. Make a recommendation: o Recommend for Landmark designation o Recommend for Historical Merit designation o Do not recommend designation 5. Forward the recommendation to the full Recreation and Parks Commission Page 86 of 91 Attachment C SMMC CHAPTER 8-3 HISTORICAL LANDMARKS Section 8-3.01. Purpose: Authority. The purpose of this chapter, which is adopted pursuant to Section 37361 of the Government Code of the State, is to promote the general and economic welfare of the City by preserving and protecting those places, sites, buildings, structures, works of art and other objects having a special historical, cultural or aesthetic character or interest for the use, education and view of the general public, and to remind all citizens of this City and visitors from elsewhere of the historical backgrounds of the City. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.02. Designation application: Designation and confirmation. The Recreation and Parks Commission is authorized and directed to receive and act upon applications from any interested persons to investigate and designate places, sites, buildings, structures, works of art and other objects within the incorporated limits of the City as having historic, cultural, aesthetic or other special character or interest, and being worthy of consideration for protection, enhancement or perpetuation as such. Such designation, together with any agreement entered into in connection therewith, shall remain and be in effect for a period of 90 days only and thereafter shall be of no force and effect unless prior to the expiration of that period of 90 days the City Council has set a date for a public hearing, advertised the hearing once in a newspaper of general circulation in the City at least 10 days prior to the date set for the public hearing, and has confirmed the action of the Recreation and Parks Commission within the 90 day period as to the designation and agreement entered into in connection with the designation. In cases where private property is the subject of the hearing notice shall be served by mail upon the owner and lienholders of record of the property at least 10 days prior to the date set for the public hearing. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.03. Places of historical merit. The Recreation and Parks Commission is further authorized and directed to locate and identify other places, sites, buildings, structures, and works of art as having historical merit which may satisfy the requirements for designation as an historical landmark or which may by the application of other standards, or by reason of a unique feature, have, in the opinion of the Recreation and Parks Commission, special historical, aesthetic or cultural value. Places, sites, buildings, structures, and works of art may be designated as having historical merit by the Recreation and Parks Commission under the provisions of this section, even though the premises may not qualify for designation as an historical landmark. The historic merit designation under the provisions of this section shall not, by reason of such designation, require the conditions or restrictions on use, improvement or renovation of the premises which are provided for in this chapter. The Recreation and Parks Commission may, however, require maintenance of the premises as a condition for continued recognition of the historic merit of the premises. Page 87 of 91 Attachment C The Recreation and Parks Commission may make a designation of historic merit, pursuant to this section, by resolution of the Parks and Recreation Commission adopted in a regular or special meeting called for that purpose. Prior to the Recreation and Parks Commission's action, however, the Recreation and Parks Commission must obtain the permission of the owner or owners of the premises as appearing on the latest available county assessor's records. The owner or owners shall be notified at least 10 days prior to the Recreation and Parks Commission action. Following the adoption of such resolution, the Recreation and Parks Commission shall mail a copy of the resolution to the owner or owners of the premises. The Recreation and Parks Commission shall maintain a record of all premises that have been given recognition under the provisions of this section and shall forward to the City Clerk copies of all resolutions making such designation. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.04. Planning commission report and recommendations. (a) Upon receipt of any application for designation of any place, site, building, structure, work of art or other object within the incorporated limits of the City as an historical landmark by the Recreation and Parks Commission, the Recreation and Parks Commission shall refer the application to the Planning Commission of the City with a request for a report and recommendations with regard to such designation, which report and recommendations may include any and all observations, information and recommendations as to an agreement in connection therewith which appear desirable to the Planning Commission upon consideration of the application. The report may include but shall not be limited to such matters as compatibility with the General Plan, general public interest, zoning, traffic or other problems which may appear to be affected by or created by the proposed designation. (b) No action shall be taken by the Recreation and Parks Commission within less than five days following the receipt of the report from the Planning Commission. Following any action recommending the designation of any place, site, building, structure, work of art or other object as an historical landmark, the report and recommendation of the Recreation and Parks Commission shall be forwarded to the City Council, which shall thereafter set the public hearing thereon as provided in this chapter. The report of the Planning Commission shall be forwarded to the City Council, together with any report or recommendation by the Recreation and Parks Commission. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.05. Standards for designation and for removal of designation. In designating or removing from designation any place, site, building, structure, work of art or other object as being of historical, cultural, aesthetic or other special character or interest, and worthy of protection under this chapter, the Recreation and Parks Commission and the City Council shall be subject to the following express standards: (a) The landmark designated shall have historical, cultural, aesthetic or special character or interest for the general public and not be limited only in interest to a special group of persons, and be at least 50 years of age. (b) The designation of such as a landmark under this chapter shall not be detrimental to the general Page 88 of 91 Attachment C welfare of the community. (c) The designation of such landmark shall not require the expenditure of an unreasonable amount of money to carry out the purposes of this chapter. In applying this provision it is the intent of this chapter that whenever a landmark proposed to be so designated is private property, expenditures for its upkeep, preservation, maintenance and protection shall be made by the owner thereof in all but the most exceptional cases. If upon careful review by the Recreation and Parks Commission it is proposed that public funds be expended for the preservation, restoration, maintenance or protection thereof, or any other purpose in connection with the designation, the recommendation made by the Recreation and Parks Commission to the City Council shall set forth that fact, and shall set forth in full the reasons therefor, and shall include a statement setting forth as accurately as possible the estimated cost in public funds which would be so involved. The City Council in acting upon the proposed designation shall also determine whether the expenditure of public funds in connection therewith is justified. In the event that such designation would be ineffective for the preservation, restoration or protection of the proposed landmark, without such expenditure, and the City Council determines that the expenditure is not justified, the place, site, building, structure, work of art or other object which is the subject of the proposal shall not be designated an historical landmark. (d) The designation of such landmark shall not infringe upon the right of a private owner thereof, if there is such, to make any and all reasonable uses of such landmark which are not in conflict with the purposes of this chapter. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.06. Agreement respecting landmark status. (a) Upon receipt of the Planning Commission report, if it appears that place, site, building, structure, work of art or other object within the incorporated limits of the City should be designated as a historical landmark, the Recreation and Parks Commission shall work with the property owner and lienholders to draft and enter into an acceptable agreement respecting designation. The Recreation and Parks Commission shall use the guidelines in section 8-3.08 as appropriate in the agreement. Any such agreement shall be effective for 90 days or until the City Council acts on the Recreation and Parks Commission's recommendation, whichever occurs sooner. If no agreement is reached, or the City Council does not affirm the agreement, the landmark designation application shall be terminated. (b) The City Council may set a public hearing to be advertised once in a newspaper of general circulation in the City at least 10 days prior to the date of such hearing. In all cases where private property is the subject of the hearing, notice of the hearing shall be served by mail upon the property owner and lienholders of record of the property at least 10 days prior to the date set for the hearing. The City Council may consider the recommendation of the Recreation and Parks Commission without setting a public hearing and advertising the same in a newspaper of general circulation, if in its discretion the City Council considers the recommended agreement will not create impacts so as to justify that procedure. In any case, however, the City Council, before acting on the recommended agreement, shall give notice to the owner and lienholders of record of the subject property as provided in this section. After such hearing the City Council may affirm the existing agreement, enter into a modified agreement or decline to approve an agreement respecting designation. The action of the City Council shall be final and shall take effect immediately. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Page 89 of 91 Attachment C Section 8-3.07. Guidelines. In developing an agreement respecting a historical landmark, the Recreation and Parks Commission and City Council shall use the following guidelines, as appropriate: (a) The agreement may require the owner or lienholder to provide written notice to the Recreation and Parks Commission in advance of structural alteration, demolition, removal or destruction, either in whole or in part, of the landmark. Upon receipt of this notice, the Recreation and Parks Commission may schedule a meeting with the owner and lienholder and use the procedures in this chapter to determine whether or not landmark status shall be continued; (b) Any agreement may provide that no permits shall be issued by any City department for any alterations, repairs, additions or changes, other than normal maintenance and repair work, unless and until all plans therefor have first been reviewed by the Recreation and Parks Commission and approved, or approved as modified, and such reasonable conditions may be imposed as deemed necessary. All such work shall be done under the direction and control of the Recreation and Parks Commission or other qualified persons designated by it for such purpose; provided, that conditions imposed as a condition of approval of alterations, repairs, additions or changes shall be final when imposed by the Recreation and Parks Commission, and unless they affect conditions imposed by the Council need not be reported to or reviewed by the City Council as provided in Section 8-3.06; (c) The agreement may provide that only certain specified uses may be made or that certain specified uses shall be prohibited; (d) The agreement may provide that no buildings or structures exposed to public view within a specified distance may be placed, erected, moved, altered, enlarged or removed, other than normal maintenance and repair work, without approval and in accordance with reasonable conditions imposed where deemed necessary by the Recreation and Parks Commission; (e) The agreement may provide that if the landmark to be designated is a building, that the building shall be open to the public at such reasonable times and intervals as shall be determined by the Recreation and Parks Commission; (f) The agreement may contain any other reasonable requirements, restrictions or conditions deemed necessary by the Recreation and Parks Commission, the owner and the lienholder to meet special or unique circumstances affecting the subject place, site, building, structure, work of art or other object; (g) The agreement may provide for disclosure of landmark status upon sale of the property by requiring a copy of the agreement to be provided to the buyer and lienholder. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2008-01, eff. 3/20/08; Ord. 2009-03, eff. 3/5/09; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.08. Funding petitions. The Recreation and Parks Commission, or other interested persons, may petition the City Council for funds necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The City Council may expend all reasonable sums needed to carry out the purposes of this chapter or to acquire fee title or such lesser ownership rights, or easements, as it deems necessary or expedient to carry out the purposes of this chapter. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Page 90 of 91 Attachment C Section 8-3.09. Appeals. (a) Any person may appeal in writing to the City Council any action authorized by SMCC 8-3 of the Recreation and Parks Commission by filing notice of such appeal with the City Clerk within 15 days from the date of such action, and the City Council shall set a public hearing, notice of which shall be duly advertised once in a newspaper of general circulation in the City, at least 10 days before the date of such hearing to consider such appeal. In all cases where private property is the subject of the action which is appealed from, notice of the hearing shall be served by mail upon the owner and lienholders of record of the property at least 10 days prior to the date set for the public hearing. At the hearing the City Council may confirm, modify or set aside any or all such actions of the Recreation and Parks Commission. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Section 8-3.10. Remedies. When the Recreation and Parks Commission receives information that a designated landmark has been or will be wholly or partially demolished, structurally altered, removed, destroyed, or otherwise no longer meets or will meet the standards set out in Section 8-3-06, the Recreation and Parks Commission may initiate an application for removal of the designation, using the procedures in the chapter. The Recreation and Parks Commission may also make any appropriate recommendations respecting continuance or discontinuance of the landmark designation to the Planning Commission. (Ord. 88-18 § 5, eff. 10/20/88; Ord. 2001-24, eff. 1/18/02; Ord. 2022-04, eff. 7/7/22) Page 91 of 91
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