Title
a. Approve the use of Toro Park, Sycamore Picnic Area on August 26, 2018 for a religious function held by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church subject to approval of all required County permits and in compliance with Monterey County Code Section 14.12.130(A)(14); and
b. Find that leasing a picnic area at an existing County park for a one-time event is Categorically Exempt pursuant to Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve the use of Toro Park, Sycamore Picnic Area on August 26, 2018 for a religious function held by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church subject to approval of all required County permits and in compliance with Monterey County Code Section 14.12.130(A)(14); and
b. Find that leasing a picnic area at an existing County park for a one-time event is Categorically Exempt pursuant to Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines.
SUMMARY:
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church has reserved the Toro Park, Sycamore Picnic Area for August 26, 2018 for a church service and picnic. This event is estimated to include 100 people. The picnic area rental agreement includes vehicle entrance for 15 vehicles. Each additional vehicle entrance will be a fee of $8.00 per vehicle, which will be charged upon arrival on each vehicle. Pursuant to Monterey County Code Section 14.12.130(A)(14), all political rallies, religious services, and any fundraising activities must have prior approval from the Board of Supervisors. Portable restrooms and security guards are not required for this event.
Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines identifies existing facilities as a Class 1 Categorical Exemption. Class 1 includes leasing existing public facilities. Religious facilities require a use permit and would be subject to CEQA. However, staff finds that leasing the picnic area at an existing park for a one-time event is allowed under Section 14.12.130 of the Monterey County Code and qualifies for a Class 1 Categorical Exemption.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
Applications for the Event Organizer and Temporary Food Facility (TFF) permits were not provided as this event is privately catered and does not require food permits. Food vendor permits are monitored and enforced by the Environmental Health Bureau (EHB). County Counsel has reviewed as to form.
FINANCING:
The standard day use and reservation fees approved by the Board of Supervisors for all age groups are in effect for this event. The Resource Management Agency will receive $204.00 for use of the Sycamore Picnic Area at Toro Park.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
County Parks provide a public service to all groups to enjoy natural settings. The recommended action implements policies and regulations for religious groups in County Parks.
___ Economic Development
X Administration
___ Health & Human Services
X Infrastructure
___ Public Safety
Prepared by: Shawne Ellerbee, RMA Deputy Director of Administrative Services
Reviewed by: Camerino Sanchez, Management Specialist
Approved by: Carl P. Holm, AICP, RMA Director
Attachments:
Attachment A - Special Event Use Application
(Attachment on file with the Clerk of the Board)