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Town Manager's Newsletter
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Saturday, February 4, 2023
David P. Donery, Town Manager
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Update on Discussions with the County of Marin Regarding Public Use of Creek Park Plaza
On Thursday, January 19, 2023, the Building Bridge 2/Creek Park Plaza working group, which consists of staff and elected officials from both the Town of San Anselmo and the County of Marin, met at the Civic Center for their third meeting. The group received an update from the Marin County Flood Control and Water Conservation District staff on the San Anselmo Flood Risk Reduction (SAFRR) program and conducted a discussion related to a letter that was sent by the Town to the County requesting consideration of several pathways toward reopening the plaza for public use. Flood District staff reported that they expect to perform the flood mitigation work this year and that they are moving forward on finalizing the plans and will seek approval to move forward. This work would include the removal of Building Bridge 2, If this project moves forward in 2023, the Town would be in a position to follow the Flood District's work and implement the Reimagine Creek Park work plan, pending Council approval. Regarding the letter sent by the Town, which identified three different options for restoring the plaza’s foundation to allow for public use, the Flood District’s attorney will be reviewing the requests and considering the liability considerations. The Board of Supervisors, in their role as the Flood District Board, would need to make the final decision on the liability piece. However, evaluating the requests would not be necessary in the case of the County moving forward with the flood work in 2023. A copy of the letter is available by clicking the provided link. Once the Flood District finalizes their plans, they will come to Council to provide a project status report. The Working Group is set to meet again in February. Please click HERE for more information, including Updates and Frequently Asked Questions.
Please note that Creek Park is still open: This includes the Redwood grove picnic tables, and the Amphitheater grass and stage area. The Town has moved some plaza picnic tables back to that area to provide more seating. You can access Creek Park via the pedestrian bridge from San Anselmo Avenue or from Center Avenue and Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
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SAVE THE DATE:
San Anselmo Recreation
Summer Activity Guide
is coming February 27TH
The moment you’ve all been waiting for is almost here! That’s right, the release date for the San Anselmo Recreation’s Summer Activity Guide is just about here! The e-mails have been pouring in asking for the date and it’s finally almost here! Interested in carpentry? Or theater? Or sports? Or maybe you’re looking for that classic summer camp experience that only Camp Kid Marin can offer! We have just what you need! Spaces will fill up fast so be sure to check out www.sananselmorecreation.org on Feb 27th to register.
If you have any questions, please e-mail: recreation@townofsananselmo.org
or call 415-258-4640.
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RED HILL DOG PARK UPDATE
Members of the Red Hill Dog Park Steering Committee met with Town Public Works Department representatives to discuss the drainage issues in the Dog Park that have recently been compounded by the series of heavy rain events.
When the Dog Park was initially conceived over 13 years ago, it was creatively designed and built with community donations and volunteer sweat equity. Fast forward to today and this park has become a well-used and beloved dog/owner destination. And the basic, original design needs to be updated. Short term Fix - wood chips
With the potential for more rain events on the horizon, there isn’t enough time for the park to dry out and allow for digging to make the proper repairs to the drainage that is needed. So, until the rains have diminished enough for that to happen, the Town has put down wood chips in the heavily muddied areas of the park. Long term Plan
Town staff will research the situation and propose some long-term solutions to the Red Hill Dog Park Steering Committee and Town Council to remedy the drainage issues. Any work will be done after the rains have subsided. The Town will update communication as information becomes available. For more information or if you have any questions:
Project Manager: Sean Condry, scondry@townofsananselmo.org
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Planning Commission Meeting
The Planning Commission will be discussing the following items at the next Planning Commission meeting on Monday, February 6, 2023 at 7:00PM. The Planning Commission meeting will be conducted via Zoom at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83598254446. Planning Commission Agenda Items: - Conditional Use Permit at 550-540 San Anselmo Avenue to allow a yoga studio.
- Presentation from the Town’s Climate Action Coordinator on what the Town has been working on and an overview and update on the Model Reach Code.
- Policy discussion on the process related to foundation replacement for nonconforming residences.
The full agenda and further information can be found on the Town website: HERE Please add your email to receive notifications and agendas for the Planning Commission meetings of any other Town public meetings: HERE
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The California Department of Housing & Community Development
Acknowledges Receipt of the Draft Housing Element
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has acknowledged the Town's submittal of the Draft 2023-2031 Housing Element. It was sent to the HCD on January 26, 2023. Over the next 90-days, the HCD staff will review the Draft Housing Element for compliance with state law. During the review period,Town staff will periodically meet with the HCD staff to answer questions and provide additional information if necessary. During this time, the Planning Department will also be working with the Town’s Housing Element consultant to update the General Plan Land Use Designation and Zoning Maps to reflect the proposed zoning changes introduced in the Draft Housing Element. The Planning Department will also identify any corresponding Zoning Code amendments, such as modified land uses and changes to development standards, as also outlined in the Draft Housing Element’s Policies, Programs, and Actions (See Section 8 of the Draft Housing Element). The maps and Zoning Code modifications would be considered by the Town Council concurrently with the Housing Element adoption. What happens after the 90-day review?
If the Draft Housing Element complies with state law in the judgement of the HCD, HCD will send the Town a comment letter stating that the Draft Housing Element is in substantial conformance with the housing law. The Town will then schedule a public hearing with the Town Council for the formal adoption of the Housing Element, which includes the corresponding environmental analysis pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This consideration would be expected to occur in late April 2023. If the HCD requires changes to the Draft Housing Element, Town staff will meet with HCD staff to discuss how to move the Draft forward. The Town will then work towards addressing the comments from the State. The Town will also reconvene the Housing Element Advisory Committee (HEAC) and the Planning Commission to publicly review the HCD comments and proposed revisions to the Draft Housing Element. After the HEAC and Planning Commission finalize their review, the Town Council will conduct a public hearing for consideration of formal adoption of the Housing Element. This consideration is expected to occur in May 2023. More information on the Housing Element can be found at: Housing Element Update Public comment continues to be vital to the process.
Please direct any comments or questions to:
Heidi Scoble, Planning Director hscoble@townofsananselmo.org
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Town Seeking Community Applicants
Spotlight:
Parks and Recreation Commission
Economic Development Committee
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There are open seats on the Town's community volunteer Boards,
Committees and Commissions.
You can find more details here:
Boards/Committees/Commissions Information San Anselmo's Boards,Committees and Commissions provide a vital link between Town government and the community for gathering public input, reviewing projects and making recommendations on key issues.
If you are interested, we encourage you to submit a completed application and you will be scheduled for an interview with Town Council. Positions will remain open until filled by Town Council. |
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Parks & Recreation Commission - one vacant seat
The Parks & Recreation Commission acts as an advisory body to Town Council and Staff for planning recreation activities, development of Town parks, and the management of public lands.
It also assists Town organizations and agencies that have as their goal the provision of activities or services for the leisure time interest of all youth and adults. Parks and Recreation Commission meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm, currently on zoom, and in Town Council Chambers when they are in person. If you are interested, we encourage you to submit a completed application and you will be scheduled for an interview with Town Council.
Positions will remain open until filled by Town Council.
To submit an application:Apply Here
You can find more details about the Parks and Recreation Commission: HERE |
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Economic Development Committee - 4 vacant seats
The charge of the Economic Development Committee (EDC) is to work with the Town's business community to identify actions that can be taken to ensure that the business community is vibrant, successful and meets the needs of the Town residents. The Economic Development Committee (EDC) ensures that the Town’s business community and residential community have a forum for giving the Town input on steps needed to attract and retain a range and variety of businesses. Economic Development Committee Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 8:45 am, currently on zoom, and in Town Council Chambers when they are in person. {Note: the EDC will begin meeting quarterly starting June 2023} The EDC recently expanded to Nine (9) members (up to 3 non-resident members) and one (1) alternate. The membership is intended to represent the diversity of interests and points of view in our community (with a strong mix of business, marketing, technology, parking management, design, and/or finance expertise), and the local business community. The Committee will include at all times, one (1) representative from the San Anselmo Chamber of Commerce and three (3) representatives who have businesses in San Anselmo, including a retail business owner, restaurant/cafe owner, and property owner. If you are interested, we encourage you to submit a completed application and you will be scheduled for an interview with Town Council.
Positions will remain open until filled by Town Council. To submit an application: Apply Here
You can find more information about the Economic Development Committee: HERE |
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Environment & Sustainability Series:
Ellie Cohen and The Climate Center Wednesday, February 8, 6:00pm
Library Reading Room or on Zoom
Come hear the latest on climate science, including news from the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, and recent policy successes in California with Ellie Cohen, CEO of The Climate Center. The Climate Center turns bold ideas into action for a climate-safe future and has been a leader in making climate solutions a reality in California since 2001. Can’t join us in person? Click here to join us virtually on Zoom! This is the second presentation of the Library: Environment and Sustainability Speaker Series that will also include a future presentations by: Marin Water.
Keep updated on the Series: here
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Art Talk Tuesday:
Jade: Stone of Heaven
Tuesday, February 14, 12:00 pm noon
Council Chambers or on Zoom
If you thought diamonds were forever, you should consider jade. For millennia this stone has been valued, revered, and imbued with meaning by most Asian societies. Discover the mystic properties of jade, and why it has been prized for thousands of years in this fascinating presentation from the Asian Art Museum. Using exquisite examples of select jade pieces, this presentation delves into some of the reasons jade has been so prized, the physical characteristics of the stone, and its importance and symbolic place in Asian cultures.
Council Chambers will be open at 11:45am to watch in-person.
To enjoy virtually, register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8jNuIbIKSZ6sZLRpP1bHiw
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LIBRARY NEWS:
CHILDREN/FAMILY EVENTS
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New program for children:Sing & Stomp
Fridays at 10:30 am starting February 10Town Hall Plaza
Sing, dance, jump and play with musician Emily Bonn in this drop-in music and movement group. You are welcome to sit, but Emily’s tunes will have you up and on your feet in no time! For kids ages 0-5. Weather permitting.
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Chinese Calligraphy Class
Saturday, February 11, 1:00 pm
Town Council Chambers Join calligraphy artist Jojo Liu in exploring this time-honored tradition. This multi-age program is for teens, adults, and children, ages 7 and older, with their caregiver. In this class you will learn to use a calligraphy brush and make five pictographic characters. This is a beginner’s introductory class, and all supplies will be provided at the program. Space is limited.
Reserve your place at library@townofsananselmo.org or call 415-258-4656.
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Crafternoons for Kids:Salt Dough Making
Wednesday, February 15, 2:30-3:30pm
in the Historical Museum
Use flour, salt and water to make your own dough. It’s fun to play with or bring home your creation and bake it! For ages 5 and up. All materials are provided. Sign up at library@townofsananselmo.org or call 415-258-4656.
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Lana Harper, author of
The Witches of Thistle Grove series
Tune in for a magical afternoon with New York Times bestselling author Lana Harper as she discusses the enchanting third installment of her immensely popular The Witches of Thistle Grove series, Back in a Spell.
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Grace M. Cho, author of
Tastes Like War
Don’t miss this insightful chat with award-winning author Grace M. Cho. Part food memoir, part sociological investigation,Tastes Like War is a hybrid text about a daughter’s search through intimate and global history for the roots of her mother’s schizophrenia.
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Sadeqa Johnson, author of
The House of Eve
Attend an invigorating conversation with highly acclaimed author Sadeqa Johnson as she talks about her brand new novel, The House of Eve, a fast-paced, harrowing story that hinges on what it means to be a woman and a mother, and how much one is willing to sacrifice to achieve her greatest goal.
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Free - Hot Water Heater Assessment & Heat Pump Water Heater Info
Heat pump water heaters are a climate-friendly alternative to gas water heaters. But most gas water heaters are replaced when they fail, with another gas one, locking in years of greenhouse gas emissions. Getting a free assessment is a great first step to be ready to replace your gas water heater. Sign up to get a free assessment of your hot water heater as part of a new San Anselmo and Fairfax pilot program with Ready-Set-Replace.
For more information, please: CLICK HERE.
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Landscape Equipment Ordinance and Leaf Blower Rebate Program
San Anselmo passed an ordinance that will prohibit the use of gas-powered landscape equipment as of June 1, 2023 for residents, and January 1, 2024 for commercial landscapers. The ordinance will help reduce the Town’s greenhouse gas emissions and protect the health and safety of residents and equipment operators by reducing hazardous air pollutants emitted during the use of gas-powered landscape equipment. Further details about the ordinance and upcoming launch of the landscape equipment trade-in and rebate program will be made available on the Town website.
Rebate Program:
In the meantime, if you haven’t already made the switch to an electric leaf blower, now is your chance to get a 50% rebate (up to $150) off the purchase of a new electric leaf blower from Jackson’s Hardware located in San Rafael.
To apply for the rebate, you’ll first need to go to the Landscape Equipment Information page on the Town website to get instructions on dropping off your gas blower, and to download and complete the rebate application that provides further details about the program.
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Ride and Drive CleanNew Year, New Ride and Save Money With An Electric Vehicle (EV) In 2023
Now is a great time to buy or lease a new or used Electric Vehicle (EV). Current incentives can reduce costs by thousands of dollars. Join Ride and Drive Clean for a webinar to learn how you can save when you go electric. Sign up now. There may be a short window for savings until March, when the IRS releases further guidelines which will likely limit EVs that qualify for the Clean Vehicle Credit. You may also follow us on social media and simply share our posts: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok. Together we can help all residents in our communities take significant climate action when they switch to an electric vehicle.
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The Electric Vehicle (EV) Rebate Program, provides qualified residential customers up to $4,000 when purchasing or leasing a pre-owned EV. The program aims to distribute more than $78 million to promote the adoption of EVs and make EV ownership more affordable for all customers. Current PG&E electric customers may qualify to receive a $1,000 or $4,000 rebate, based on household income, when purchasing or leasing an eligible pre-owned all-electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid EV. To take advantage of the offer, interested customers must successfully submit a rebate application within 180 days of the date of purchase or lease. Additional EV Customer Programs and Incentives
PG&E offers a variety of tools, rebates and resources to help educate customers and encourage EV adoption. Customers are invited to check out PG&E’s EV Savings Calculator, an online resource to browse vehicles, discover incentives, locate charging stations and more. PG&E also offers an EV Rate Comparison tool to help customers find the best rate plan for them. PG&E is preparing to launch additional EV programs in the coming months. Here are the programs currently available: - PG&E’s EV Fleet Program helps customers with medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in their fleets to install cost-effective charging infrastructure to save money, reduce tailpipe emissions and simplify maintenance.
- Through its EV Fast Charge Program, PG&E is funding and installing infrastructure at qualifying customer sites to support the expansion of publicly available fast-charging stations for light-duty vehicles.
- PG&E’s EV Charge Schools Program is installing level 2 charging stations at school facilities and educational institutions for staff, parents and students to charge their EVs. PG&E helps fund the costs of purchasing and installing the EV charging equipment and networking fees at participating schools, as well as ongoing maintenance and operations. With at least 40% of the new chargers located in disadvantaged communities, the pilot is bringing EV charging options to customers who might not have had them before.
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Special Announcement from our Partners at Ross Valley School District:
Board Seat Vacancy
The Ross Valley School District is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on its Governing Board. The vacancy, to be filled by board appointment, was caused by the recent resignation of Trustee Marie Henrio. Ms. Henrio has resigned due to the multiple demanding aspects of her current job as Chief Business Official in another Marin County school district. The term for the appointment is February 2023 to November 2024. Applications are available at the District Office, located at 100 Shaw Drive, San Anselmo, CA 94060 and are due back no later than 4:00 pm on Wednesday, February 8, 2023. All applications will become public records upon receipt by the District. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00pm.
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Please Support the Hanging Flower Baskets in
Downtown San Anselmo
This will be our 5th year of enhancing the Avenue with beautiful hanging flower baskets from May - October. The flower basket program is a volunteer effort and relies on donations from the Town, the merchants and the community. Each year these baskets draw such an overwhelmingly positive response that we are committed to keeping them going. We are especially grateful to have Ed Healy (aka "Indy") on our team to water the baskets every day. A special thank you to the Town of San Anselmo and the Chamber of Commerce for their support and donations. And also to the residents and merchants who have supported us for the past four years. We couldn't do it without you!
There are two ways you can contribute: - Donate by visiting the program’s: GO FUND ME PAGE or
- Mail a check payable to:
SA Friends of the Flower Baskets
P.O. Box 2844, San Anselmo, CA 94979
For more information about this project contact: Nancy Altman at nnaltman@me.com
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Marin Master Gardener TipsPlan Your Fire-smart Landscape
February 2023
FEBRUARY: Trees and Shrubs - Consider spacing- Plant spacing, size control and maintenance are more important than type of plant. We cannot eliminate fire but we can alter the fire’s behavior.
- Consider creating separation by increasing spacing between tree canopies while considering flat vs sloped terrain.
- Maintain vertical clearance of at least 3X the shrub’s height between the tops of shrubs and the bottom of the tree canopy. This can be done by pruning the shrub down, or pruning smaller, easily ignitable tree branches up, or both.
- Avoid massing woody shrubs at the base of trees. Consider low-growing, herbaceous plants instead.
- Create islands of plants with non-combustible paths to interrupt spread of fire.
For More Fire-Smart Landscaping Information:
Visit the U.C. MARIN MASTER GARDENER website: www.ucanr.edu/ucmarinmgfiresmart
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