Title
Provide workshop to consider amendments to Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Parks Commission:
a. Receive a report on proposed amendments to Title 14.12 of the Monterey County Code
b. Provide direction to staff .
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The Resource Management Agency (RMA) finds that Chapter 14.12 of the Monterey County Code could be amended to better organize and clarify the Chapter’s authority and scope. Chapter 14.12 covers specific requirements for the operation of County Parks. The Chapter was originally codified in 1970, and many sections have not been updated since 1992. This, along with ad hoc interpretation and enforcement, has led to inconsistent application. In addition, some of the regulations are out-of-date. With input from County Counsel, it was determined that a better approach would be to revise the entire chapter, rather than update each section individually.
RMA Staff has started to develop an ordinance to bring the code up to date and meet current organizational needs. Generally, County Codes (adopted by ordinance) should provide a high level outline of regulations with specific program information and fees adopted by resolution.
Proposed updates would add language to the current code and address authority for Parks permits process, rules and regulations. Some of the updates Staff intends to address include the following:
- Change references to the Parks Director to reflect the integration of Parks into RMA (RMA Director, RMA Deputy Director, Chief of Parks).
- Update the definition of “Alcohol” to limit types of alcohol allowed in the parks.
- Affirm the authority of the RMA Director or Deputy Director(s) to establish park rules and regulations.
- Defer fees and authority for waivers to be adopted by resolution.
- Reorganize the park permit process (Sections 14.12.030 through 14.12.060).
- Incorporate smoking restrictions.
RMA requests that the Parks Commissioners provide comment and recommendations for areas of improvement to Chapter 14.12 County Parks that should be included in the upcoming revision.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
RMA is working with County Counsel throughout the update process. We are contacting similar jurisdictions to assess their ordinances.
FINANCING:
There is no impact to the General Fund by receiving this report.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
RMA is considering updates to the County Code that would address current needs including public safety, operations in the County parks, and rules and regulations.
__Economic Development
X Administration
X Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
X Public Safety
Prepared by: John Snively, Management Analyst (831) 759-6617
Approved by: Shawne Ellerbee, RMA Deputy Director of Administrative Services
Approved by: Carl P. Holm, AICP, RMA Director
Dated: October 23, 2017
Attachments:
Attachment A - Monterey County Code Chapter 14.12
Attachment B - San Luis Obispo County Code Chapter 11.04
Attachment C - Santa Cruz County Code Chapter 10.04