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HomeMy WebLinkAbout020521-0.7 REGIONAL, STATE AND FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 2021 LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY In 2021 the State Legislature is expected to continue to intensify their efforts to encourage housing production and affordability by imposing new requirements on local governments. While the business of the Legislative sessions is the same, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the state and will have broad implications on shaping policy in the future. The Town will continue to work with the other Tri-Valley Cities (TVC) to further policy issues and positions that affect our communities. These eff orts include continuing to work with TPA to advocate for and promote TVC interests at both state and federal levels. In the past two years, TPA has assisted the TVC more effectively advocating on behalf of over 365,000 people, making significant inroads on issues where individual City/Town efforts would have been less effective. The number of bills being introduced in the state legislature having the potential to further erode cities’ local control has increased significantly. The Town is continuing to expand advocacy efforts and public outreach to counter these measures through advocacy resources including: • Town of Danville Legislative Framework (attachment A) • Tri-Valley Cities Legislative Framework (attachment B) • Legislative Committee of the Danville Town Council • Legislative Advocacy page on the Towns’ website • Legislative Advocacy updates in the Danville Quarterly Newsletter 2020 LEGISLATIVE SUMMARY The California State Legislature (legislature) opened the 2020 legislative session with approximately 2,200 active bills as of February 21, the last day for bills to be introduced during the session. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the legislative session was suspended on March 16. The Assembly reopened on May 4, followed by the Senate on May 11. 2 During the 7 and 8-week respective closings, the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the legislative schedule and priorities. State, counties, and local agencies had to confront a steep and unprecedented economic crisis including job losses, budget shortfalls and reduced services. As a result of this change, the legislature reduced the number of bills and the most consequential bills in the 2020 session, the Senate Pro Tem Housing bills, failed passage. Danville Town Council Legislative Committee The Danville Town Council Legislative Committee was approved by Town Council in December 2019 to allow for more rapid response to certain legislative actions and allow the Town to advocate in ways that are specific and unique to Danville. During 2020 the Legislative Committee tracked 20 bills and took action on 13 bills related to housing. The Committee also updated the Town of Danville Legislative Framework. Grant Funding In December 2019, the Town Council authorized a contract with Townsend Public Affairs to provide Grant writing assistance and services. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the cascading impact the Federal and State Government, many of the grant programs were delayed. TPA and Danville staff have worked together throughout the year to pursue State and Federal Grant Funding and COVID -19 recovery funding resulting in $1.1 million received. The Town currently has four pending applications totaling $3.6 million from 2020. Town Council approved funding the grant program through the end of the fiscal year and as a result staff is in the process of pursuing grants from the Regional Early Action Funding (REAP), CalRecycle Grants Program and the CalTrans Sustainable Communities Grant Program. Townsend Public Affairs has prepared a detailed 2020 Legislative Summary (attachment C), highlights include: Federal Advocacy - In January 2021, the Tri-Valley Cities’ (TVC) Mayors continued their annual advocacy efforts in conjunction with the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington, D.C. Working with TPA the TVC group engaged in a series of productive meetings and discussions aimed at furthering the TVC legislative platform. State Advocacy & Leadership - At the state level the TVC coalition took the lead in advocating for local control at the Legislature. On February 4, the coalition met with the Chief of Staff for Senator Beall, Senior Policy Advisory Stephanie Park from the Office of the Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins and Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer - Kahan in an effort to build relationships with policy makers in Sacramento. The Town 3 continues to stay engaged with the League of California Cities in policy development and advocacy efforts including Legislative Action Day. 2021 LEGISLATIVE SESSION As anticipated, at the beginning of the 2021 Legislative Session, California Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins introduced several key pieces of legislation including the reintroduction of bills from the Senate Housing Package. The new “Building Opportunities for All” housing package includes six bills designed to offer housing opportunities and solutions to Californians. Building Opportunities for All Housing Package SB 5: Senate Housing Bond (Atkins, Skinner, Weiner) Senate Bill 5, establishes the initial framework that would state the intent of the Legislature to enact legislation that would authorize the issuance of bonds and would require the proceeds from the sale of those bonds to be used to finance housing - related programs that serve the homeless and extremely low income and very low- income Californians. SB 6: (Caballero) The Neighborhood Homes Act Senate Bill 6, the Neighborhood Homes Act, authorizes residential development on existing lots currently zoned for commercial office and retail space, such as strip malls or large “big box” retail spaces, that are not adjacent to industrial use zones. The bill would require the density for a housing development under these provisions to meet or exceed the density deemed appropriate to accommodate housing for lower income households according to the type of local jurisdiction, including a density of at least 20 units per acre for a suburban jurisdiction. Senate Bill 7: (Atkins) The Housing + Jobs Expansion and Extension Act Senate Bill 7, eliminates the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process by extending and expanding provisions of AB 900, which streamlined paperwork and expedited legal challenges to large, multi-benefit housing, energy, and manufacturing projects. SB 7 would extend the 2021 ‘sunset’ of AB 900, through 2025. Senate Bill 8: (Skinner) Density Bonus Law Senate Bill 8, would change the Density Bonus Law and incentivize the construction of housing developments that will contain a specified percentage of units for low and moderate-income households. This bill is currently listed as a spot bill. Senate Bill 9: (Atkins) California Housing Opportunity & More Efficiency (HOME) Act 4 Senate Bill 9, promotes small-scale neighborhood residential development by streamlining the process for a homeowner to create a duplex or subdivide an existing lot in residential areas. SB 9 is identical to SB 1120, a bill that essentially eliminates single family zoning. SB 9 language, at a minimum allows for 4 full size houses where one sits now. Senate Bill 10: (Wiener) SB 10, allows cities to upzone areas close to job centers, transit, and existing urbanized areas to allow up to ten units without having to go through the lengthy CEQA process. State Budget Proposal 2021/22 Governor Newsom presented the 2021-22 State Budget proposal on January 8 including an unexpected $15.5 billion windfall. . Last year the legislature faced an unprecedented challenge to adopt a budget in a time of great uncertainty. Under the Governors’ budget, revenues are close to pre-pandemic levels and State costs have not risen as dramatically as anticipated. The $227 billion fiscal plan calls for includes $165 billion for the General Fund. The Budget blueprint calls for immediate COVID- 19 response and relief efforts while making investments towards a broad-based economic recovery. COVID-19 Relief - $4.4 billion to address vaccines, testing, contact tracing, food banks, Community engagement and State operations of corrections and rehabilitations. Economic Development Package - $4.4 billion to include small business grants, workforce development, deferred maintenance, housing development, zero-emissions vehicles and the California Jobs Initiative Golden State Stimulus - $2.4 billion for $600 direct payments to low-income houses and low-income housing tax credits. Education – $86 billion in Proposition 98 spending, additional $2 billion non- Proposition 98 General Fund investments, address the impacts of the pandemic on student learning, student mental health services, early childhood education and educator development package. Homelessness - The budget contains $1.75 billion in new investments including local government grants to purchase hotels/motels, mental health housing and housing for vulnerable seniors. 5 Housing – The budget includes $500 million for the Infill Infrastructure Grant Program and $500 million for low-income housing tax credits. Climate Change - 1 Billion to support the Forest Management’s Task Force’s Wildlife and Forest Resilience Action Plan, flood management, coastal protection and restoration of natural areas and ecosystems. The next step in the budget process is for the Legislature to begin to consider the Governor’s budget. In the coming weeks, the Senate and Assembly Budget Committee, and various Budget Subcommittees, will conduct hearings to receive more detail about the various items in the Governor’s budget proposal. The committees will also begin the process of determining legislative priorities for inclusion in the budget. Hearings will occur over several months until the Governor releases his May Revise of the budget. The FY 2021-22 budget will need to be approved by June 15th. Federal The Biden Administration was sworn into office on January 20. The first item on the agenda is to curb the spread of COVID-19. President Biden unveiled a $1.9 trillion emergency relief plan designed to deliver direct aid to families, businesses, and communities, as well as focus on coronavirus testing and vaccine production and delivery. Key components of the package include $350 billion to state and local governments, $15 billion for small business grant programs, $160 billion for schools, $25 billion in rental assistance for low and moderate-income households who have lost jobs during the pandemic, a $15-dollar minimum wage, $20 billion for vaccines and $50 billion for testing. CONCLUSION The Town Council is asked to provide further direction or feedback to staff regarding steps being taken to effectively advocate the Town’s positions. Attachments: A - Tri-Valley Cities Legislative Framework B - Town of Danville 2020 Legislative Framework C - Townsend Summary of 2020 Legislative Efforts Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework A 2018-2020 TRI-VALLEY CITIES LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK ATTACHMENT A TVC CITY CONTACT INFORMATION Town of Danville 510 La Gonda Way Danville, CA 94526 (925) 314-3388 dfriedmann@danville.ca.gov City of Dublin 100 Civic Plaza Dublin, CA 94568 (925) 833-6650 dublininfo@dublin.ca.gov City of Livermore 1052 South Livermore Avenue Livermore, CA 94550 (925) 960-4040 info@cityoflivermore.net City of Pleasanton 123 Main Street P. O. Box 520 Pleasanton, CA 94566 (925) 931-5001 bhopkins@cityofplesantonca.gov City of San Ramon 7000 Bollinger Canyon Road San Ramon, CA 94583 (925) 973-2500 citymanager@sanramon.ca.gov Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework 1 INTRODUCTION & STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK OVERVIEW Background The Tri-Valley Cities of Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and the Town of Danville have joined together to work on legislative issues, projects and initiatives at the State and Federal level. Each city and town is represented by the Mayor, City Manager and Staff Liaison. Coordination of the group is rotated annually between each city. Activities include quarterly meetings to discuss legislative matters, and an annual State Legislative visit to Sacramento in the spring, and an annual Federal Legislative visit to Washington, D.C. in the winter. The objective of these trips is to hold meetings with state and federal representatives, promote the Tri-Valley Legislative Agenda, and attend either the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Annual Winter Meeting or the National League of Cities’ Annual Congressional City Conference. The Cities and Town have contracted with a state and federal advocacy firm, Townsend Public Affairs (TPA) and prior to TPA, Jordan & Associates. The Cities and Town, have experienced success in advocacy for legislation and leveraging funding for projects that meet the needs of the region. Previous successful efforts include: • Interstate 580, 680 and State Route 84 improvements; and • East Bay Regional Communication System; and • Tri-Valley Housing Opportunity Center. Overview The Cities and Town have determined that the development of a Strategic Framework would assist the region with a more focused effort and improve strategic advocacy at all levels of government (e.g. federal, state, regional, local). This document sets a clear direction regarding the region’s priorities, including desired objectives, estimated timelines for completion, and potential partnerships with regional agencies (e.g. transportation agencies) for each legislative effort. The goal of the Strategic Framework is to provide focus, drive alignment, promote strategic relationships, and assist in 2018-2020 TRI-VALLEY CITIES LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK 2 Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework promoting a clear and concise narrative to maintain and improve the quality of life for Tri- Valley residents and businesses and enable continued opportunities for public and private investment within the region. TRI-VALLEY CITIES VALUES STATEMENT The Tri-Valley Cities of Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Town of Danville value regional leadership, collaboration, and problem solving to maintain and improve the quality of life for Tri-Valley residents and businesses, and enable continued opportunities for public and private investment within the region. Each City or Town provides a unique perspective on how to best meet the needs of their residents. The Cities and Town agree to respect the individuality of each community while focusing on collaboration towards common efforts and regional solutions. The Cities and Town are committed to open and honest communication with a goal of building consensus and a united approach to advocacy for solutions that will serve the residents and businesses of the Tri-Valley. LEGISLATIVE ACTION FRAMEWORK The current political landscape has required the Cities and Town to develop a different legislative framework in order to create positive outcomes for the region. Historically, the practice has been to advocate at the federal level for funding of local projects by meeting with federal legislators and seeking direct funding through federal “earmarks.” The elimination of federal “earmarks” by the Obama Administration as a funding mechanism for local projects and initiatives has severely limited the region’s legislative advocacy efforts. The new reality is that Federal funding is now primarily distributed by Federal Agencies via grant programs. While these grants are available to cities, in practice local and regional governmental entities apply to respective federal agencies for these funds through a competitive application process. To be successful in this environment, the Cities and Town must be strategically focused and rely on relationship building and other public private partnerships to achieve successful outcomes. The Legislative Action Framework provides a mechanism to better equip the Cities and Town Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework 3 to work together on issues of joint interest. The process includes the following objectives: • Identifying and prioritizing Focus Areas; • Identifying and prioritizing specific projects and/or initiatives within each Focus Area; Developing the Tri-Valley Legislative Platform that highlights project leads, regional partnerships, timelines and specific outcomes; and • Developing a two-year Action Plan Framework which serves to implement the aforementioned objectives. Focus Areas Focus Areas anchor the work of the Cities and Town by providing clearly defined areas of interest. The Cities and Town will prioritize their Focus Areas and determine which of the Focus Areas will be included in the Action Plan. The City Managers and Mayors may evaluate and amend Focus Areas as needed. The seven (7) Focus Areas are as follows (listed in priority order): 1. Public Infrastructure 2. Transportation 3. Housing 4. Local Control 5. Fiscal Sustainability 6. Economic Development 7. Public Safety Projects Projects were identified and prioritized for each Focus Area. Based upon the Focus Areas identified to include in the Action Plan, the Cities and Town will select projects and identify specific outcomes to be included in the Action Plan. An Engagement Plan will be outlined for each project/initiative and a Fact Sheet will be developed. The Engagement process is explained in further detail on page 5. The specific projects within the Focus Area are as follows (listed in priority order): Public Infrastructure 1. Secure funding for local roads and bridges. 2. Expand renewable energy infrastructure (e.g., solar, wind, etc.). 3. Improve water infrastructure (e.g., potable, recycled water, etc.). 4. Secure funding for Storm Water Management Infrastructure/Green Infrastructure. 4 Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework Transportation 1. Implement Tri-Valley Transportation Council (TVTC) Regional Priorities. 2. Implement capacity improvements and regional highway connectivity on State Route 84 and Interstates 580 and 680. 3. Accelerate connection of the Tri-Valley – San Joaquin Valley Regional Rail Authority’s Valley Link project to the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE). 4. Complete the Iron Horse Trail from Danville to Livermore, including improvements over crossings within each jurisdiction. Housing 1. Strengthen local control to address state housing mandates. 2. Monitor and influence regional housing policy (e.g. Plan Bay Area, RHNA cycles, etc.). 3. Secure and protect local funding sources for workforce housing opportunities (e.g. CDBG, etc.). 4. Work to minimize homelessness within the region. Local Control 1. Advocate for CEQA reform. 2. Strengthen local land use control. 3. Support permit streamlining initiatives. Fiscal Sustainability 1. Advocate for fiscal reform to ensure retention of local revenue sources (e.g. sales tax, property tax, gas tax, reform county pool allocations, etc.). 2. Support and secure regional and state grants for eligible capital projects and/or initiatives. 3. Advocate for sustainable statewide CalPERS pension reforms. Economic Development 1. Support regional collaboration around business innovation. 2. Promote private investment. 3. Recruit and retain local employers. Public Safety 1. Protect local COPS Funding. 2. Strengthen law enforcement (e.g. AB109). 3. Reduce repeat offender crimes. Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework 5 Engagement Plan This plan will expand engagement to four (4) levels: Federal, State, Regional, and Local, and will include a strategic focus on relationship-building. For each specific project and initiative, it is important to evaluate and strengthen existing, and cultivate new, relationships. These relationships will be key to preparation of an Engagement Plan which will clearly identify steps and tasks to achieve project success. With established working relationships, the municipalities will be poised to better understand partners and how to leverage support for projects and initiatives. The Engagement Plan will identify partners at each of the four levels, and the project liaisons from each municipality will work on the selected projects or initiatives and outline a communication loop to ensure that information is shared at all levels regarding status, next steps and desired outcomes. The plan will also provide an analysis of how the project or initiative aligns with partner agency priorities, and identify any additional relationships that need to be developed and/or expanded. The municipalities will be responsible to work with the lobbyist/consultant/ contract staff to develop an Engagement Plan that will identify goals and strategies for each selected project or initiative. TVC Federal State Regional Local Iron Horse Trail PARTNERSHIPS Federal DOT FHWA State CalTrans Local Division Regional MTC Local EBRPD AlamedaCTC TVC Federal State Regional Local Iron Horse Trail PARTNERSHIPS Federal DOT FHWA State CalTrans Local Division Regional MTC Local EBRPD AlamedaCTC 6 Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework 2018–2020 FOCUS AREAS AND PROJECTS Areas of Focus: Local Control, Transportation, and Housing Projects: Primary Priority • Strengthen local land use and control. Secondary Priorities • Accelerate connection of the Tri-Valley – San Joaquin Valley Regional Rail Authority’s Valley Link project to the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE). • Complete the Iron Horse Trail from Danville to Livermore, including improved over crossings within each jurisdiction looking for grant funding. • Strengthen local control to address state housing mandates. Tertiary Priorities • Secure and protect local funding sources for workforce housing opportunities (e.g. CDBG, etc.). • Implement capacity improvements and regional highway connectivity on State Route 84 and Interstates 580 and 680. NEXT STEPS Working together with TPA we will focus on developing relationships through Engagement Plans in an effort to progress toward measurable outcomes for each project. The Legislative Framework may be periodically updated to adjust to the changing conditions of the Tri-Valley Area and the policy objectives of the region. 8 Tri-Valley Cities | Legislative FrameworkTri-Valley Cities | Legislative Framework Town of Danville Legislative Framework Town Council Legislative Committee 2 Overview The Town of Danville is actively engaged in legislative advocacy efforts that are aimed at protecting and promoting Danville’s best interests at the local, state and federal levels. These efforts are driven by two primary considerations: 1) continuing to uphold the Town mission of delivering superior municipal services that make people’s lives better; and 2) an increasing level of state involvement and regulation in areas that have previously fallen within local control. The significant increase in bills being introduced in the state legislature that have the potential to further impact cities’ local control has prompted the Town to continue to expand advocacy efforts through various means and channels. Key to these efforts is the development of this Legislative Framework which outlines the Town’s legislative principles, policies, goals and strategies. The Framework will be monitored and driven by a Town Council Legislative Committee. Legislative Goals • Advocate the Town’s legislative interests at the federal, state, regional, and county levels to support our Town’s vision and mission. • Serve as an active participant with other local governments, the League of California Cities, regional agencies, and local professional organizations on legislative issues that are important to the town and our region. • Participate in the Tri-Valley Cities coalition to work together on legislative issues, projects and initiatives at the federal, state, regional and county levels. • Seek grant and funding assistance for Town projects, services, and programs. Legislative Principles To fulfill the goals identified, the Town supports legislation and policies that favor: 1. Outstanding Quality of Life - provide opportunities to protect and enhance our residents’ quality of life through active living, a healthy lifestyle and diverse recreational services. 2. Community Safety - provide access to resources and services for residents, such as quality police, fire, emergency management, emergency medical services, services for vulnerable populations and community benefit efforts. 3. Local Control over Land Use and Preservation - ensures the Town’s continued ability and authority to exercise decisions on land use matters and reasonably regulate new development to ensure consistency with Town design standards. The orderly growth and development of the Town together with the preservation of open-space is a high priority for the Danville community. 4. Foster Economic Vitality and Growth - provide funding for initiatives that promote: economic health and resilience, business development, workforce 3 development, and small business entrepreneurship training and assistance. 5. Public Infrastructure - enable continued improvement and maintenance of the Town’s public infrastructure. 6. Transportation - provide funding for planning and implementation of regional transportation projects. 7. Housing - seek balanced solutions which consider housing, jobs, and transportation together; does not take a one size fits all approach; provides funding and resources for infrastructure and allows the Town to exercise local control in developing locally- appropriate plans that meet State objectives in a manner that is compatible with existing community character. 8. Support Residents Growth and Enrichment - enhance and encourage recreational programming, exercise, use of parks and services, community engagement, social and recreational experiences; and performing and visual arts. 9. Sustainability - enable sustainable development, conserve natural resources, and, provide resources to enable environmental awareness and health in our community. 10. Fiscal Sustainability - protect existing federal, state, and local funding sources that provide revenues to the Town of Danville. Oppose Unfunded Mandates and legislation that seeks to impose any requirement upon the Town that is not fully funded; aid recovery of Town costs stemming from State and/or Federal mandates. Town Council Legislative Committee • The Legislative Committee will consist of two members of the Town Council to be appointed annually by the Mayor, supported by appropriate Town staff. • The committee will meet as frequently as monthly to review and discuss the Town’s legislative platform and pending/possible legislation. • The committee will develop positions on pending or possible legislation and make recommendations for consideration by the Town Council. Recommendations will be based upon a determination of potential legislative impacts upon the Town and its residents. Potential positions to be considered include: o Support: Legislation that the Town should support as drafted o Support if Amended: that the Town should support if the author accepts amendments proposed or supported by the Town o Oppose: Legislation that the Town should oppose as drafted o Oppose unless amended: Legislation the Town should oppose unless amended o Watch: Town will take no formal position but will watch the Legislation and consider taking a position as the legislative process progresses • Once a determination has been made that a legislative proposal may impact the Town, a letter outlining the Town’s position will be drafted for the Mayor’s or Town Manager’s signature. 4 • The committee will make regular reports to the Town Council at duly noticed public meetings. • The committee will work collaboratively with Tri-Valley Cities of Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton and San Ramon to further the Tri-Valley Legislative Framework. Strategic Documents The following documents are available on the Town’s website at www.danville.ca.gov • Town Vision and Mission Statements • Town of Danville General Plan 2030 • Town of Danville Adopted Budget and Capital Improvement Program • Town of Danville Recreation, Arts & Community Services Master Plan • Town of Danville Climate Action Plan The Legislative Framework will be reviewed annually by the Town Council. Day to day oversight of legislative matters is the responsibility of the Town Manager’s Office, consistent with this Legislative Framework and policy set by the Town Council. MEMORANDUM To: Mayor Renee Morgan and Members of the Danville Town Council From: Christopher Townsend, President, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. Niccolo De Luca, Northern California Senior Director Alex Gibbs, Senior Associate Andres Ramirez, Associate Laura Kroeger, Federal Senior Associate Date: February 5, 2021 Subject: 2020 Legislative Summary for the Town of Danville SUMMARY Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (TPA) has prepared this report for the Town of Danville following the end of the 2020 legislative year. This report provides a summary of our efforts to date for the advocacy objectives of Danville. Summary of 2020 State Legislative Efforts and Successes TPA worked with the elected Danville leadership, management, and management staff to develop, advocate, and secure several major initiatives through various means including legislation. This was done working hand in hand with the four other municipalities in the Tri-Valley Cities (TVC) coalition and working directly with our elected leaders in Sacramento. A major success in 2020 included an invitation for Townsend Public Affairs to represent the TVC on Senate Pro Tem Atkins’ Housing Production committee/working group. This engagement ensured the TVC voice was heard and incorporated as a part of developing state-wide housing production legislation. TPA continued to follow up with comment letters and meetings with the Senate Pro Tem’s staff and lead policy advisors. While Danville and the TVC were not able to support all five of the housing production bills, many of our specifically suggested amendments were incorporated into a number of the high-profile bills. Some of the language amendments are highlighted below, under the respective bills. Not only did our submission of thoughtful suggested amendments result in changes to bill language, but they also helped Danville and the TVC coalition continue to make a name as a respected thought partner to various members of the State Legislature. In addition to work on legislation, TPA worked with the Town of Danville and other four Tri-Valley Cities on formulating and sending a request the Governor, Senator Glazer, Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan, and Budget Staff for COVID-19 response funding at the beginning of the pandemic. This was followed up with aggressive advocacy on to ensure the needs and concerns of the coalition, such as staffing shortages, budget deficits, and more, were being fully understood. Our intense and constant advocacy 2 helped drive allocations to individual cities and towns through the Coronavirus Relief Fund from the CARES Act. As part of the Tri-Valley Cities coalition, the Town of Danville took unified formal positions on five major housing production bills, one housing bill focused on impact fees, one homelessness related bill, and one transportation related bill. TPA also closely monitored numerous other pieces of legislation in which a formal position was not taken. The formal positions were on the following pieces of legislation: AB 1484 (Grayson) Mitigation Fee Act: housing developments • This bill would have prohibited a local agency from imposing a housing impact requirement on a housing development project, unless specified requirements are satisfied by the local agency, including that the housing impact requirement be roughly proportional in both nature and extent to the impact created by the housing development project. It would also have required local governments to post fee list and number of other related documents on municipal websites. • TPA expressed the concerns of TVC to the author and his staff, our legislative delegation, housing committee staff, local government committee staff, and others. • Pressures from various advocacy organizations and local governments resulted in the bill being halted for the 2020 legislative session. AB 3269 (Chiu) State and local agencies: homelessness plan • This bill would have established the Housing and Homelessness Inspector General (Inspector General), require the Homeless Coordinating and Financing Council (HCFC) to conduct a specified needs and gaps analysis, require local governments to develop actionable plans to address homelessness, and create a public right of action for the Inspector General to compel compliance with those new plans. • Danville and TVC engaged by submitting a constructive comment letter with suggested changes to the proposed legislation. • TPA helped craft the content of the letter and submitted it directly to the authors office and continued with follow up with the Assemblymember’s lead staff and the Governor’s office. • The bill was ultimately held in the Senate Appropriations Committee and did not advance in 2020. 3 SB 278 (Beall) A Proposal Related to FASTER Bay Area • Proponents of the legislation planned to include substantive language, which if passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor, would have placed a $100 Billion funding measure on the regional ballot, where the nine Bay Area Counties would vote on tax(es) to fund transformative transit projects over the next 40 years. • Danville, as part of TVC, and TPA weighed in with a comment letter to the Author, Senate Transportation Committee staff, our legislative delegation, and others. • TPA has numerous follow up meetings with the committee staff heading the bill on incorporation of the Valley-Link project as a funding earmark. • Due to a reduced bill package and financial concerns as a result of COVID-19, the bill did not continue in 2020. SB 902 (Wiener) Planning and zoning: housing development: density • This bill was introduced as a “more palatable” version of previous zoning bills, but still had limited protections for sensitive communities and residents. As you know we worked closely with Senator Wiener’s staff on the previous bill (SB 827) and were able to recommend legislative ideas that fit more within the context of the Tri-Valley. • Specifically, we pushed to include protections for historic districts, helped refine the definition of “transit-rich” areas, and helped ensure there was an opt-in option where local governments could decide whether or not they would like to zone a parcel for residential development. The language included: o A neighborhood multifamily project may not ‘demolish sound rental housing or housing that has been placed on a national or state historic register.’ o ‘“Transit-rich area” means a parcel within one-half mile of a major transit stop, as defined in Section 21064.3 of the Public Resources Code, or a parcel on a high-quality bus corridor.’ • Additionally, we helped push the removal of the provision which allows a local government to override a local voter-approved initiative that bans rezoning of a particular parcel or area. • Through our work in amending the bill, we were able to move to a “Support with a proposed amendment to go above 10 units” position. • The bill was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee and did not advance in 2020. 4 SB 995 (Atkins) Environmental quality: Jobs and Economic Improvement Through Environmental Leadership Act of 2011: housing projects • This bill would have provided State funds for lead agencies/local governments to develop a Master EIR to facilitate more seamless, but locally controlled housing development in their respective jurisdictions. • TPA stayed in close communication with the Pro Tem’s Office as the bill language was drafted and amended through the legislative process. With the final amendments in place, this was a useful tool for local governments. • Danville and the TVC were able to come to a “Support with clarification ” position. • The bill did not make it to a final vote on the last night of session due to time constraints and other factors. As such, it did not advance in 2020. SB 1085 (Skinner) Density Bonus Law: qualifications for incentives or concessions: student housing for lower income students: moderate-income persons and families: local government constraints • This bill would have expanded the number of incentives available to housing developers to build moderate income units. • TPA engaged the Author’s office, Legislative Leadership, and our Legislative delegation, voicing the Tri-Valley Cities’ concerns. • Specifically, we expressed concerns with the provisions that prohibit the collection of impact fees on affordable units, and the language that fostered the creation of more moderate-income units, but less affordable units. • Danville and the TVC were ultimately unable to support the legislation, despite actively participating in the working group. • This bill was heavily contested by a number of affordable housing advocacy groups and cities across the state. • The bill did not make it to a final vote on the last night of session due to time constraints and other factors. As such, it did not advance in 2020. SB 1120 (Atkins) Subdivisions: tentative maps • This bill was introduced to require a proposed housing development containing two residential units to be considered ministerially, without discretionary review or hearing, in zones where allowable uses are limited to single-family residential development. • Like with SB 902, Danville, TVC, and TPA engaged in discussions with staff and stakeholders about the importance of ensuring this legislation did not infringe in sensitive areas such as historic districts. We also reiterated the 5 importance of maintaining the architectural integrity of a community and having ADU’s that fit within a neighborhood’s context. The language included: o ‘The proposed housing development does not allow the demolition of more than 25 percent of the existing exterior structural walls unless the housing development meets at least one of the following conditions: (A) If a local ordinance so allows. (B) The site has not been occupied by a tenant in the last three years.’ • In all, the bill had been significantly amended from its original housing production idea, and was crafted to support modest, appropriately scaled infill development. • However, Danville and the TVC were unable to support the final bill text. • The bill did not make it to a final vote on the last night of session due to time constraints and other factors. As such, it did not advance in 2020. SB 1385 (Caballero) Local planning: housing: commercial zones • This bill would have allowed a housing development on land zoned as office or retail commercial use so long as no commercial tenants occupied 50% of the property for at least 3 years. • With input from Danville and the Tri-Valley Cities, TPA worked to highlight the negative effects the bill would have on small business owners, community amenities, and ultimately residents. • Danville and TVC were unable to support the bill. • TPA met with the Author’s office, policy committee staff, and others. As a byproduct, the second housing policy committee proposed significant amendments that the author did not accept. • The bill was held in Assembly Local Government Committee and did not advance in 2020. 2020 Sacramento Advocacy Trip On February 4th, 2020, Vice Mayor Lisa Blackwell, Assistant Town Manager Tai Williams, Assistant to the Town Manager Diane Friedmann, and other staff and elected officials from the TVC coalition travelled to Sacramento for a legislative advocacy day of meetings with state elected officials and key policy staff. Discussion topics were centered around housing legislation and briefing Legislators and Staff on the Valley Link Project. Meetings Included: Office of Senator Jim Beall • Met with the Senator’s Chief of Staff, Sunshine Borelli Office of Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins • Met with Stephanie Park, Senior Policy Advisor 6 • This led to an eventual invitation by the Pro Tem to have Townsend represent TVC in a select working group of Senators to craft and give input on major housing production policy • Additionally, TPA set a follow-up meeting with the Pro Tem’s top environmental and housing advisors to discuss CEQA issues, in which the TVC coalition participated Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan • Met with the Assemblymember and her Chief of Staff, Jordan Curley Senate Governance and Finance Committee • Met with Anton Favorini-Csorba and Jonathan Peterson, Senior Committee Consultants Office of Senator Steve Glazer • Met with McKinley Thompson-Morley, Legislative Staff for Housing and Transportation Office of Senator Scott Wiener • Met with Annie Fryman, Lead Staff on Housing Policy Assembly Local Government Committee • Met with Angela Mapp, Chief Committee Consultant Funding Advocacy/Grant Writing TPA has been assisting the Town of Danville with funding advocacy and grant writing since January 2020. TPA continues to work closely with staff to analyze the Town’s CIP list and provide recommendations on grant and funding opportunities the closely meet the Town’s needs. TPA conducts weekly phone calls with Town staff to review current and upcoming opportunities. To date TPA has assisted Town Staff in applying for CARES Act Funding, FEMA reimbursements and securing $514,640 in State Grant Funding. 2020 Washington DC Advocacy Trip On January 21 and 22, 2020, Mayor Karen Stepper along with other Mayors and one Vice-Mayor from the TVC coalition travelled to Washington DC, for the US Conference of Mayors and two days of legislative advocacy meetings with federal elected officials and key policy staff. Discussion topics were centered around briefing attendees on the Valley Link Project, advocating for local control over wireless infrastructure and cable fees, and support for workforce development. Meetings Included: 7 US Department of Transportation • Met with Sean Poole, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs; Michael Russo, Special Assistant for Governmental Affairs; and Mindy Shaw, Special Assistant for Governmental Affairs Office of Congresswoman Anna Eshoo • Met with Asad Ramzanali, Legislative Director Office of Congressman Mark DeSaulnier • Met with Allison Johnson, Legislative Director Office of Congressman Eric Swalwell • Met with Kyle Alagood, Transportation Legislative Advisor Office of Senator Diane Feinstein • Met with Josh Esquivel, Legislative Director; Anant Rout, Counsel; and Rishi Sahgal, Legislative Assistant Office of Congressman Josh Harder • Met with Adela Amador, Deputy Chief of Staff/Legislative Director National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) • Met with Lisa Gordon-Hagerty, Under Secretary of Energy 2021 Federal Outlook for the Town of Danville With Democrats winning the presidency, retaining the House, and now flipping the Senate, there will be a number of significant implications trickling down from the National scale all the way down to the local level. First and foremost, President Biden will face a friendlier Senate than he otherwise would have, which must confirm his Cabinet picks after inauguration. This could mean that his appointees will be confirmed easier and quicker, and the Senate can move on to other major priorities quicker. Nominees need only 50 votes in the Senate, instead of 60 under the filibuster, to be confirmed. A Democratically controlled Senate will also be much friendlier to President Biden’s judicial appointments, and could consider proposals to counter past Republican controlled Senate judicial procedures, like expanding the Supreme Court. Judicial nominees, including Supreme Court nominees, need only 50 votes in the Senate, instead of 60 under the filibuster, to be confirmed. A “Phase 5” coronavirus relief package, including state and local funding vaccine distribution, expanded unemployment benefits, school re-opening, tax credits, rental 8 relief, aid to small businesses, and the balance of the $2,000 stimulus checks , would likely pass quickly. Major legislative pushes, like the Green New Deal and large infrastructure packages, would be likely to move with haste. Legislative packages would likely be more progressive in nature, but will still have to keep the House Democratic Caucus unified enough to stand up against their very narrow majority, and overcome the filibuster if still in place. If House Democrats lose votes within their caucus regularly, they may have to change course and make major legislative packages more Republican - friendly to pick up a few GOP votes. California is also looking to a resurgence of influence at the federal level. With California Senators members of majority party, their priorities will more likely align with Senate priorities. Senator Feinstein would have been in line to Chair the Judiciary Committee, but she recently resigned her leadership position . Senator Alex Padilla has not yet received committee assignments, but may yet have a larger role to play in future legislative discussions. Vice President Harris, a California native, will also have influence over California’s role in the Administration – though at least for the first two years, we will see her impact primarily in Congress. With a 50-50 split in the Senate, Vice President Harris will cast the tie-breaking vote when a tie occurs. If Senators vote along party line frequently, which is expected, Vice President Harris will often be in the Senate to vote, hampering other meetings and travel outside of DC. Procedurally, the Senate can eliminate the filibuster if no Democrats oppose. Eliminating the filibuster would take a vote to proceed from requiring 60 votes to only 51, opening up roads for legislation to move extremely quickly. This would require a simple rule change to be voted on by simple majority. Also, with the House looking poised to bring earmarks back, the last outsta nding question was whether the Senate would get on board. Democratic control of the Senate makes the federal earmark return more likely, opening up wider possibilities for congressionally-directed spending on local projects – which is very likely to favor public agencies. Ongoing Communication TPA stays in frequent communication with Danville’s TVC liaison on weekly TVC conference calls, as well as individual grant and advocacy calls. Since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, TPA has provided daily updates and well as weekly recaps of all policy and regulatory news and decisions on the State and Federal levels related to COVID-19. Additionally, TPA always makes availability for email and phone outreach with staff, management, and elected officials if they wish to speak. DATE: February 5, 2021 TO: Town Council & Commissions FROM: Lianna Adauto, Economic Development Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Danville Quarterly Business Activity Update Below is a snapshot of the business activity in Danville from September 2020 to the present. The following designations have been established to indicate the type of activity for retail and restaurant businesses: (CS) coming soon; (NB) new business; (R) relocated; (RME) remodeled/expanded; (T) temporary and (C) closed. The previous Quarterly Business Activity Update dated August 28, 2020 (Attachment A) is included for comparison purposes. Danville Square Status Business Name Business Type Address C I Love Kickboxing Fitness 7 Railroad Avenue Historic Downtown Status Business Name Business Type Address C Francesca’s Retail 522 Hartz Avenue C L’Arc Method Pilates Studio 222 Railroad Avenue C Subway Sandwich Shop 125 Railroad Avenue C The Coffee Shop Coffee Shop 100 Linda Mesa NB Baba & Cece Convenience Store 442 Hartz Avenue NB Hazy BBQ BBQ Restaurant 200 Hartz Avenue NB Hopstone – Farm & Craft Café 405 Railroad Avenue NB SPENGA Danville Yoga/Fitness Studio 200 Hartz Avenue NB Taco Bell Cantina Restaurant 444 Front Street R Casey Howard Interior Design Interior Design 120 W. Linda Mesa R Cottage Jewel Antique Boutique 391 Hartz Avenue R Power Stitch Embroidery 181 Hartz Avenue R The Peasant and the Pear Restaurant 111 W. Prospect Avenue The Crossroads Status Business Name Business Type Address NB G-Mama's Halal Indian Food Restaurant 480 SRV Blvd. 2 The Livery Status Business Name Business Type Address C Dana’s Restaurant 416 Sycamore Valley W NB Pure Barre Danville Barre Studio 600 Sycamore Valley W NB Space Hair Studio Hair Salon 816 Sycamore Valley W Town & Country Status Business Name Business Type Address C Beautify Permanent Makeup & Lashes Beauty Services 111 Town & Country Drive C Danville Karate Fitness 111 Town & Country Drive C Escalante Esthetics Spa 111 Town & Country Drive Tassajara Crossings Status Business Name Business Type Address C AFC Sushi Sushi in Safeway 3496 Camino Tassajara DATE: August 28, 2020 TO: Town Council & Commissions FROM: Lianna Adauto, Economic Development Program Coordinator SUBJECT: Danville Quarterly Business Activity Update Below is a snapshot of the business activity in Danville from March 2020 to the present. The following designations have been established to indicate the type of activity for retail and restaurant businesses: (CS) coming soon; (NB) new business; (R) relocated; (RME) remodeled/expanded; (T) temporary and (C) closed. Crow Canyon Medical Center Status Business Name Business Type Address NB Endo and Diabetes Center Medical Office 1320 El Capitan Drive NB Medical Anesthesia Consultants Medical Group Medical Office 1320 El Capitan Drive Danville Square Status Business Name Business Type Address C Bishops Haircuts & Hair Color (Sold to Prep) Salon 39 Railroad Avenue Green Valley Shopping Center Status Business Name Business Type Address C G-Mama's Halal Indian Food Restaurant 480 SRV Blvd. Historic Downtown Status Business Name Business Type Address C Burger King Restaurant 444 Front Street C Christina’s Fine Clothing Retail 145 E Prospect Avenue C Christine's A Complete You Salon 374 Hartz Avenue C Dentgnostix Digital Dental Lab 158 W Linda Mesa Avenue C East Bay Counseling Private Practice 301 Hartz Avenue C Fit Mind-N-Body Nutrition Consulting 145 E Prospect Avenue C Forge Pizza Restaurant 345 Railroad Avenue C Gingerlily Gifts & Home Decor 120 W Linda Mesa Avenue ATTACHMENT A 2 C Golden Gate Sotheby's Int'l Real Estate 360 Hartz Avenue Historic Downtown (Cont’d.) C Gotta Eatta Pita Restaurant 110 Hartz Avenue C Health Clinic and Spa Spa/Acupuncture 130 E Prospect Avenue C Identity, A Tribez Salon Salon/Retail Store 822 Hartz Way C Kaufman Chiropractic Corp. Chiropractic 413 Railroad Avenue C North American Title Co. Financial 645 SRV Blvd. C Tootsies Shoe Store/Pedicure 175 E Prospect Avenue C Two Left Feet Dance Center Dance Studio 194 Diablo Road NB Cannon Quality Group LLC Business Services 77 Front Street NB East Bay Tongue Tie Center Dental Health 822 Hartz Way NB MWAC Architectural Corp. 675 Hartz Avenue NB Paradiso, A Salon by JD Salon 822 Hartz Way NB Players Pub & Piano's Pub/Restaurant 148 E Prospect Avenue NB Provence Pizza LLC Restaurant 345 Railroad Avenue NB Pure Organic Nail Salon, Inc Salon 9 Railroad Avenue NB Quantum Escapes Escape Room 391 Diablo Road NB The Good Life Spa Day Spa 158 W Linda Mesa Avenue NB The Shade Store Window Treatments 111 W Prospect Avenue NB TopHap Real Estate 360 Hartz Avenue R Spree Boutique Retail 374 Hartz Avenue Iron Horse Plaza Status Business Name Business Type Address C Koko Fitclub Fitness Club 499 SRV Blvd. Sycamore Square Status Business Name Business Type Address NB YogaSix Exercise Studio 680 SRV Blvd. The Crossroads Status Business Name Business Type Address C Sigs Little Kitchen Filipino Takeout 480 SRV Blvd. C Silk Road Massage Massage Spa 480 SRV Blvd. The Livery Status Business Name Business Type Address C McCaulou's Shoe Boutique Retail 600 Sycamore Valley NB Aozora Japanese Restaurant Sushi and More 820 Sycamore Valley W Town & Country Status Business Name Business Type Address C Beautify Permanent Makeup & Lashes Beauty Services 111 Town & Country Drive C Escalante Esthetics Spa 111 Town & Country Drive The Victorians Status Business Name Business Type Address NB Danville Neuropathy Center Integrative Medicine 919 SRV Blvd. CODE ENFORCMENT ACTIVITY 2020 The chart below summarizes the code enforcement activity for the 2020 calendar year. 2020 Summary: All Code Enforcement Cases (1/1/20 – 12/31/20) Case Type Case Status Subtotal by Type # Initiated by Resident % Initiated by Resident Open Closed Building 10 45 55 53 96% Encroachment 1 28 29 22 100% Fence 3 5 8 8 100% Home Occupation 0 5 5 5 100% Noise 0 17 17 17 100% Other 3 55 58 58 100% Screening 1 11 12 12 100% Sign 0 1 1 1 100% Smoking 0 4 4 4 100% Tree 1 7 8 8 100% Zoning 2 8 10 9 90% Subtotal by Status: 21 186 207 197 97% Total Cases in 1/1/20 – 12/31/20: HERITAGE RESOURCE COMMISSION REPORT AND SUMMARY ➢ Public Outreach Sub-Committee: The Heritage Resource Commission formed a public outreach sub-committee to review ways of enhancing public awareness of the Town’s history and historic preservation program. The committee’s first effort has been to create a program to raise awareness through the installation and promotion of informational bronze plaques. To date, 12 plaques have been installed on Town Heritage Resources. ➢ Historic Survey Sub-Committee – The Heritage Resource Commission formed a sub- committee to review and recommend updates to the Town’s Survey of Historic Properties. The sub-committee’s work has included identifying additional structures that may have historic significance, evaluating properties currently listed on the Town’s Identified Potential Resources survey for possible inclusion on the Town Heritage Resource Survey, and the review of the existing structures on the Town’s Historic Survey for possible designation as a Town Heritage Resource. The Heritage Resource Commission are involved with the following developments which involve heritage resources: ➢ 521 Hartz Avenue - DEV-0008; applicant is William Wood Architects and the Owner is Terrance Doyle ESQ. Project status: Staff Review. ➢ 342 Railroad Avenue – DEV18-0016; Todd Fitch is the owner and Barry& Winn Architects are the applicant. This project approval allowed the construction of a new two-story 2,635 square foot building to the rear of the existing 988 square foot historic building on the site. The project would also include minor restoration improvements to the historic building. Project status: The applicant has submitted for Building Permits. PLANNING COMMISSION AND DESIGN REVIEW BOARD - 2020 File #Type Name Address Description Status PUD19-0001 Residential Misson 14 Lot 2570 Camino Tassajara Planned Unit Development (P- 1) Rezoning and Major Subdivision to subdivide a 19.43-acre site to create 14 single-family residential lots Staff Review SUB19-0003 Residential Tassajara Subdivision 2434 Tassajara Lane Subdivision of an existing 34,175 square foot parcel into two single-family residential lots Staff Review DEV20-0008 Commercial Terence Doyle ESQ 571 Hartz Ave 1,064 square foot two-story addition to the historic Bert Read House Staff Review DEV20-0012 Residential VIAM Danville LLC Loyal Dragon Place Architecural approval for four single family residences associated with a previously approved subdivision Staff Review PR20-0001 Mixed Use Fazloah Poursohi 600 Hartz Avenue 33 residntial units and 3,800 square foot commercial mixed use re-development Pre-Application PUD15-0001 Residential 375 West Elpintado 375 & 359 West El Pintado Planned Unit Development (P- 1) Rezoning and 37 lot multifamily subdivision Approved DEV18-0016 Commercial Fitch Office Building 342 Railroad Ave Renovation of an existing 988 square foot historic building and the construction of a new 2,604 square foot two-story building at the rear of the site Building Permits DEV19-0008 Commercial Silvio Quattro, LLC 200 Hartz Ave Complete renovation and remodel of an existing 14,182 square foot comnercial building Under Construction DEV20-0008 Commercial Scarbroough Management Co.444 Front Steet Exterior remodel related to change of business from Burger King to Taco Bell Cantina Complete DEV18-0020 Commercial Mixed Use Building 198 Diablo Road Construction of an approximately 10,600 square foot two-story mixed-use building Approved PUD10-0004 Residential Magee Preserve South side Diablo & Blackhawk Road Planned Unit Development (P- 1) Rezoning and 69 lot subdivision Approved DEV19-0018 Residential Shannon Residence 46 Smokewood Ct Construction of a 4,621 square foot residense Under Construction SUB18-0001 PUD18-0001 Residential The Collection 2550 Camino Tassajara Developemnt of 18 single family homes on a 5.05 acre site Under Construction SUB19-0001 Residential Shannon Subdivision 46 Smokewood Ct Subdivision of an existing 0.76 parcel into two single family residential parcels Under Construction DEV20-0011 Residential Haven Development 134 El Dorado Development Plan for a five lot subdivision and architectural plans for the five residences Approved SUB20-0001 Residential The Address Company 1485 Lawrence Road Subdivision to divide a 4.4- acre parcel into five lots Approved SUB851-2020 Residential Haven Development 1475 Lawrence Road Subdivision of a 5-acre parcel into four lots Approved DEV19-0024 Residential Chevron Car Wash 400 Diablo Road Construction of a new 798 square foot drive-through car wash, a 372 square foot expansion of an existing convenience store Approved DEV19-0011 Commercial ClockTower Addition & Exterior Remodel 301 Hartz Ave Construction of a 2,677+/- square foot second-story addition, complete building façade remodel, and landscape improvements, and development of a new public plaza. Under Construction SUB18-0002 Residential Kirkcrest Road Minor Subdivision 777 Kirkcrest Rd Minor Subdivision to subdivide a 2.06 acre parcel into two single family residential lots Approved SUB19-0004 Residential Klaus Subdivision and Tree Removal 1610 Lawrence Rd Minor Subdivision to divide an existing 5.21-acre parcel into four parcels Approved DEV19-0015 Commercial First Floor Expansion 156 Diablo Raod 1,759 square foot first floor addition to an existing 24,599 square foot commercial office building Building Permits SUB19-0005 Commercial 321 Hartz Ave 321 Hartz Ave Subdivision of an the existing commercial building for condominium purposes Approved DEV20-0001 Commercial I Can Do Performing Arts Studio 194 Diablo Road Complete exterior remodel of an existing 2,400 square foot building Under Construction