REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Consider a New Council Policy to Ban the Use of Artificial Turf at City Facilities and Open Space
Report
BACKGROUND
At the February 6, 2024 City Council meeting under Non-Agenda Items, the City Council directed staff to create a policy restricting the use of artificial turf fields on City property. This was in response to comments from members of the public regarding the negative environmental impacts of artificial turf.
On February 15, 2024, the City Council approved Study Issue ESD 24-01 - Evaluate the Use of Artificial Turf versus Living Groundcovers. The Study Issue will analyze the benefits and challenges regarding the installation and use of artificial turf on private properties, including residential and commercial landscapes, and public properties, including athletic fields. The Study Issue will also provide recommendations for the City to develop a policy regarding the use of artificial turf.
EXISTING POLICY
N/A
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a "project" with the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that banning artificial turf will have a significant effect on the environment within the meaning of CEQA.
DISCUSSION
Currently, the City has artificial turf at Fair Oaks Park; the playgrounds located at the Magical Bridge All-inclusive Playground and Muwekma Park; a small patch at Orchard Gardens Park; and the cricket pitch at Ortega Park. Additionally, the batting cages at Ortega Park are planned to have artificial turf.
The City started using synthetic turf to replace natural ground covering to reduce field maintenance costs, increase water conservation by reducing consumption, save on water costs, and eliminate the use of chemicals like pesticide, fertilizers, and weed killers. Additionally, the use of synthetic fields allows for year-round ...
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