REPORT TO PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
SUBJECT
Title
Acknowledge the Department of Public Works' Amendments to the Operational Standards for Acceptance of Land for Park Purposes
Report
BACKGROUND
On September 30, 2014, the City Council held a study session to discuss the Department of Public Works' current Parkland Dedication Standards (Attachment 1). As part of that discussion staff explained the purpose of the standards, provided a summary of the requirements, identified some of the key issues, and outlined possible next steps and options (Attachment 2). The current parkland dedication standards describe the requirements for a property to be "clean" and "clear". In general, it was concluded that the current standards are fine in respect to the "clear" requirements but the "clean" requirements are conservative and somewhat restrictive, and that they could be updated and refined to better meet park use requirements.
Staff is recommending that the City Council acknowledge the amendments that will be implemented by the Department of Public Works relative to Standards for Acceptance of Land for Park Purposes, as presented in Attachment 3.
The City Council is scheduled to consider this item on May 5, 2015.
EXISTING POLICY
General Plan, Chapter 3, Land use and Transportation - Open Space
Policy LT-8.14 - In applying the park dedication requirements for new development, place a priority on acquiring land over in-lieu payment, particularly when the development is in areas identified as underserved and/or when the land is of sufficient size or can be combined with other land dedication to form larger mini parks or neighborhood parks.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The endorsement of the standards does not require environmental clearance because it is not a project within the meaning of CEQA. Any future park dedication will be required to complete environmental review prior to acceptance by the City.
DISCUSSION
The existing parkland acquisition stan...
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