St. Helena public meetings in 2022

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to demolish an existing home at 2484 Spring Mountain Road and build a new single-family home with an attached garage in the Woodlands and Watershed zoning district. The meeting will also include routine approval of past meeting minutes and public forum opportunities.

• Demolition permit and design review for 2484 Spring Mountain Road single-family home rebuild
• Approval of minutes from September 29, October 18, and December 6, 2022 meetings

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will conduct second readings and adopt updates to the 2022 California Building Standards Code, including energy efficiency and wildfire safety provisions. The meeting will also swear in new Mayor Paul Dohring and Council Members Anna Chouteau and Billy Summers, recognize outgoing Mayor Geoff Ellsworth, and approve contracts and resolutions including a $45,000 water rate study amendment.

• Adopt 2022 California Building Standards Code updates to Title 15 (energy efficiency, wildfire safety, and permit enforcement changes)
• Approve $45,000 amendment to Raftelis Financial Consultants water/wastewater rate study contract (total not to exceed $191,310)
• Authorize $41,200 amendment to Regional Government Services HR services contract (total not to exceed $116,200)
• Approve $100,000 funding source for Hall Vineland LLC settlement payment via Water Operations Fund
• Swear in Mayor-Elect Paul Dohring and Council Members-Elect Anna Chouteau and Billy Summers

Water and Wastewater Advisory Committee

The Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee will review and discuss updates to financial plan assumptions, including growth and water demand projections, and a detailed presentation of the proposed Capital Improvement Program for water and wastewater infrastructure. The committee will also revisit Q&A from the previous meeting. No final decisions are scheduled; the items are for review and discussion only.

• Review of Q&A from 11/9/22 meeting on water rates for non-city customers and water agreements
• Financial plan assumptions: 0.5% annual SFR growth, 0.9% MFR growth, 0% for other classes
• Water demand baseline set to FY 2019, discounted 1% per year for conservation
• Proposed water CIP: replace Napa Intertie Transmission Main ($5.715M) and WTP Transmission Main ($7.954M)
• Wastewater CIP: Del Campo Court pipe replacement included in rate structure; annual rehab/replacement budget proposed

City Council

The City Council and Planning Commission hold a joint meeting to receive public input on the third public review of a comprehensive zoning code update. The update aims to streamline permitting, expand permitted uses, and align with state housing laws. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for feedback.

• Comprehensive Zoning Code Update – Public Meeting #3 with 31 public comments listed
• Proposed zoning map changes for LR-1A to LR-1 districts
• Parking standard revisions including EV charging and bicycle parking requirements
• Sign code updates to comply with Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) content-neutrality ruling
• Affordable housing chapter updates including density bonus and inclusionary housing changes

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider approving a demolition permit and design review for a new single-family home with an attached garage at 2484 Spring Mountain Road. The item is recommended for approval under a CEQA Class 3 exemption. The commission will also receive a progress update on a separate project at 2126 Madrona Avenue, which staff recommends continuing to 2023 due to outstanding items and pending plan revisions.

• Public hearing: demolition and new single-family home at 2484 Spring Mountain Road (WW zoning)
• Progress update: demolition and new home with ADU at 2126 Madrona Avenue (Twenty-Acre Agriculture zoning)
• Consent item: approval of minutes from November 1 and November 15, 2022 meetings

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee will decide whether to recommend a 90-day demonstration project installing curb extensions at the Madrona Avenue and Kearney Street intersection to calm traffic between St. Helena Elementary and Middle Schools. Staff will present background on pedestrian safety concerns and seek a recommendation to proceed with spring 2023 installation.

• Designation of two ATSC members to form a subcommittee for the Main Street Crossing Document
• Consideration and recommendation on the Madrona and Kearney Demonstration Project with curb extensions and 90-day pilot timeline
• Future agenda items include Active Transportation Plan Phase II, a potential Reusable Foodware and Waste Reduction Ordinance, and a Napa Countywide Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory Presentation

City Council

The St. Helena City Council and Planning Commission held a joint meeting to discuss the second public review of a comprehensive zoning code update. No formal decisions were made, but staff presented proposed changes to Central Business, Mixed Use, and Service Commercial districts, including new permitted uses and development standards. Public comment was taken on these revisions.

• Central Business District: added live/work units, brewpubs, public markets, and cultural institutions; removed banks and parking facilities from Main Street
• Mixed Use District: new zoning category allowing 12–20 units/acre with FAR max of 1.0, including live/work and single-room occupancy
• Service Commercial District: added brewpubs, mobile food vendors, and amphitheaters; increased max FAR to 0.50 and building size to 15,000 SF
• Short-term rental ordinance refinements: third-party appeals, stricter TOT tax verification, and 14-day protest window for neighbors
• Formula business cap: limited to four formula retail stores in CB, MU, and SC zones; formula restaurants remain prohibited

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two design review requests. The first is a proposal to remodel the storefront and exterior of the historic building at 1381 Main Street, including reconfiguring parking. The second is a proposal to add a second story to a single-family home at 1386 Community Drive. The commission will also take public comments and hear staff reports.

• Design review for storefront remodel at 1381 Main Street (Vasconi's Pharmacy building), including parking reconfiguration with no net loss of spaces
• Design review for second-story addition to single-family residence at 1386 Community Drive
• CEQA exemptions recommended for both projects (Sections 15301 and 15303)
• Public forum for comments on non-agenda items

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission holds a special meeting to hear a presentation on the Walking Routes, Trails, and Publicly Accessible Open Space Draft Plan. The plan, developed over 2.5 years by a subcommittee, outlines a four-year framework to expand pedestrian access, signage, and trails across St. Helena. No formal vote is scheduled; the goal is to gather public input before the plan advances to the Planning Commission in 2023.

• Trails and Open Space Draft Plan presentation and public feedback session
• Adams–Pine Pathway revised recommendation: gate removal deferred until priority items complete
• Estimated implementation budget: $10k for website/map design, $10k for digital print maps, $70k per mile for trail building
• CEQA determination: not a CEQA project
• Next step: Planning Commission review in 2023

Water and Wastewater Advisory Committee

The Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee is reviewing financial plan scenarios and assumptions for the water and wastewater rate study. The committee will discuss rate structure modification options and next steps in the rate study process. The scenarios include potential revenue adjustments ranging from 5% to 60% in FY 2024, with some assuming significant new debt and capital improvement spending.

• Water Scenario 3: 60% revenue adjustment in FY 2024, $30M debt in FY 2024 and $20M in FY 2027
• Water Scenario 2: 6% annual revenue adjustments, $3M debt in FY 2024, $4M in FY 2027, $5M in FY 2030, and $3M general fund loan in FY 2024
• Wastewater Scenario 2: 60% revenue adjustment in FY 2024, 15% in FY 2025, $5.5M proposed debt in FY 2024
• Water CIP spending projected to increase from $1.1M historical to $6.0M annually
• Water demand has decreased 25% from FY 2021 to FY 2022

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet at the St. Helena Public Library to review routine monthly reports, including library statistics, operating expenses, and the California Public Libraries Survey submission. The board will also consider canceling the December 2022 meeting and scheduling a joint meeting with the Friends & Foundation Executive Board.

• Consideration of canceling the December 2022 Library Board meeting
• Approval of a meeting between the Library Board and Friends & Foundation Executive Board
• Review of California Public Libraries Survey FY21/22 submission
• Review of November 2022 Library Newsletter
• Review of October 2022 library operating expense report ($1,001,729 total) and statistics

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the Hunter Subdivision, a proposal to subdivide a 16.9-acre parcel into 51 single-family lots (11 with ADUs), a 25-unit multi-family parcel, and two remnant parcels, totaling 87 units. Staff recommends continuing the item to a date uncertain in 2023. The commission will also consider a sign permit for two banners at 1345 Railroad Avenue and approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Hunter Subdivision: 16.9-acre subdivision, 87 units total, north of Hunt Avenue and east of Adams Street
• Staff recommends continuing item 5.1 to a date uncertain in 2023
• Sign permit for two identification banners at 1345 Railroad Avenue (Central Business district)
• Approval of minutes from September 29 and October 18, 2022 meetings

City Council

The St. Helena City Council and Planning Commission are holding the first public meeting on a comprehensive update to the city's zoning code, which began after the 2019 General Plan adoption. The meeting is for public discussion only, with no action required. Key proposed changes include streamlined review processes, new objective design standards, and updates to residential and commercial zoning districts.

• New Minor Use Permit and Minor Design Review processes to allow staff-level approval for certain projects
• Updated Major Design Review applicability and findings, with separate findings for residential and non-residential projects
• New objective design standards for residential development, including building orientation, transparency, and landscaping
• Consolidation of LR-1A and LR low-density residential districts into one LR district
• Expanded downtown permitted uses, including creative maker spaces, brewpubs, and public markets

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will consider approving the issuance of general obligation bonds up to $6,000,000, adopt the 2022 California Building Standards Code, and approve several contracts and resolutions. The meeting includes a presentation on the FY 22/23 pavement project and a public hearing on building code amendments.

• Resolution authorizing issuance of 2022 Bonds, estimated principal $5,255,000, not-to-exceed $6,000,000
• First reading of ordinance adopting 2022 California Building Standards Code and amending residential gate code
• Professional services agreement with Joe Branum Tree Care Inc. for $35,690 to remove 12 dead trees in St. Helena Flood Project
• Agreement with Baker Tilly US, LLC for $62,900 for long-range financial planning
• Acquisition of two 2023 Ford Police Explorer Hybrids, a 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid, and a 2023 Tesla Model 3 for up to $203,000

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss and potentially adopt its goals and committee assignments for the 2022-23 term, based on prior discussions and City Council goals. The agenda also includes a recap of the 2022 Hometown Harvest Festival and routine reports from staff and commissioners. The consent calendar includes approval of the September 26, 2022 special meeting minutes.

• Adoption of 2022-23 Commission Goals and Committee Assignments
• Recap of 2022 Hometown Harvest Festival
• Approval of September 26, 2022 special meeting minutes
• Park maintenance and recreation services updates
• Public forum for comments on non-agenda items

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by LMR Destinations LLC to amend the Use Permit and Development Agreement for the lodging project at 1000 Mills Lane. The amendments would change storm water drainage improvement requirements and provide additional funding for water conservation. The Commission will consider recommending City Council approval of the amendments.

• Use Permit Amendment and Development Agreement Amendment for LMR Destinations LLC lodging project at 1000 Mills Lane
• Amend storm water drainage improvement requirements, removing need for Mills Lane storm drain improvements
• Provide additional funding for water conservation, including recycled water system development
• CEQA determination: no subsequent or supplemental EIR or MND required
• Approval of minutes from September 6, 2022

City Council

The St. Helena City Council and Planning Commission are holding a special joint meeting to receive public comment on the draft update to the Public Health, Safety, and Noise Element of the General Plan. No formal action is required; the bodies will provide direction to staff on revisions. The update is required by recent state legislation and includes new information on wildfire, flood, evacuation routes, and climate change vulnerability.

• Public review draft of Public Health, Safety, and Noise Element update
• Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (Appendix B) included
• 30-day public comment period runs Sept 9 – Oct 10, 2022
• Contract with Mintier Harnish for $228,024 for Housing and Safety Element updates
• CEQA determination: Exempt

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will consider consent items including a $1,157,192.50 contract for pavement restoration, a two-year lease for four automatic license plate readers from Flock Safety for $26,800, and an employment agreement for a new Public Works Director. Public hearings will address an ordinance amending leaf blower regulations and adopting a police policy on military equipment as required by AB 481. The meeting also includes routine reports on grants, water supply, and a temporary closure of Hunt Avenue for a holiday display.

• Award $1,157,192.50 contract to Argonaut Constructors for R22-79 Pavement Restoration Improvements Project
• Approve two-year lease for four Flock Safety ALPRs at $26,800 with budget increase to COPS grant fund
• Introduce ordinance amending Section 8.24.010 regarding leaf blowers
• Adopt Police Department Policy 707 'Military Equipment' per AB 481
• Approve employment agreement for Joseph Leach as Director of Public Works

Parks & Recreation Commission

The St. Helena Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a special meeting to consider approving a memorial bench at Crane Park in honor of Charles McGrath, discuss commissioner park assignments, and set goals for the 2022-23 term. The agenda also includes a consent calendar for approving the August 29, 2022 minutes and a planning update for the Hometown Harvest Festival. Public comment is limited to four minutes per speaker.

• Memorial bench installation at Crane Park for Charles McGrath, with plaque reading 'Chuck McGrath 1921-2015 Living to play bocce one more season'
• Discussion of 2022-23 commission goals and committee assignments, including carryover items like Baldwin Park Improvements, Pickleball, Trails, Parks Master Plan, and Tennis/Crane Park Lighting
• Approval of August 29, 2022 meeting minutes
• Hometown Harvest Festival planning update

Water and Wastewater Advisory Committee

The Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee will discuss and provide feedback on the rate study, including results of a pricing objectives exercise, reserve policy options, and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The committee will review comparisons of City Council and committee rankings of pricing objectives, consider alternative reserve policies for the water and wastewater enterprises, and evaluate the 10-year CIP. This is a discussion item; no final decisions are scheduled.

• Pricing objectives results: City Council ranked Financial Stability most important; committee ranked Equity most important
• Reserve policy options for water enterprise: existing policy targets $8.8M, alternatives range from $7.8M to $10.4M
• Reserve policy options for wastewater enterprise: existing policy targets $2.4M, alternatives range from $2.6M to $4.0M
• Water CIP: 10-year historical annual spend $1.1M, forward-looking annual spend $5.2M
• Sewer CIP: 10-year historical annual spend $0.9M, forward-looking annual spend $1.1M

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The City of St. Helena Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee did not meet on September 7, 2022; the regular meeting was cancelled. A special meeting is scheduled for September 14, 2022.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The St. Helena Parks and Recreation Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss and set goals for the 2022-23 term, including committee assignments. They will also receive an update on the memorial bench donation process, which currently lacks a formal policy. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and staff reports, but the main focus is on planning for the coming year.

• Discussion of 2022-23 Commission Goals and Committee Assignments
• Update on Memorial Bench Donation Process (one pending request, bench cost ~$1,600)
• Hometown Harvest Festival Planning Update
• Commissioner Park Assignments and Feedback Submission Process
• Introduction of new City Manager Anil Comelo and Recreation Supervisor Ashley Sylvester

Water and Wastewater Advisory Committee

The Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee will receive updates from Raftelis Consultants on the rate study, including modeling efforts, pricing objectives results, reserves policies, and the capital improvement program. The committee will discuss and provide feedback on these items, which will inform future rate structures for water and wastewater services.

• Raftelis Consultants update on modeling efforts and critical analyses
• Pricing objectives results compiled from City Council and committee responses
• Comparison of existing reserves policies with similar agencies
• Presentation of long-term capital improvement program for each utility
• Discussion on upcoming community open house and schedule

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider design review approval for a project at 839 Charter Oak Avenue. The applicant proposes to build a new 3,076-square-foot single-family home, convert the existing 782-square-foot house into a second unit, and convert a garage/studio into an accessory dwelling unit. Staff recommends approval and a CEQA categorical exemption.

• New 3,076 sq ft single-family home with carport at 839 Charter Oak Avenue
• Existing 782 sq ft dwelling to become a second unit
• Existing 480 sq ft garage/studio to be converted to an ADU
• CEQA exemption under Section 15303 recommended
• Approval of July 19, 2022 minutes on consent

Library Board of Trustees

The St. Helena Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to elect officers, discuss the Library of Things, and receive reports from the Friends & Foundation, as well as review newsletters, statistics, and the monthly expense report. The meeting is largely routine, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Election of Library Board of Trustee Officers
• Discussion of Library of Things items (e.g., sewing machine, puzzles, games)
• Report from Friends & Foundation, St. Helena Public Library
• Review of August 2022 Library Newsletters (English and Spanish)
• Review of July 2022 Library Statistics and Monthly Operating Expense Report

City Council

This is a special closed-session meeting of the St. Helena City Council, held to discuss labor negotiations with the St. Helena Employees Association (SHEA) and unrepresented firefighters. No public decisions are expected, as the session is closed. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with public comment limited to closed-session topics. The next regular council meeting follows at 6:00 p.m. the same day.

• Closed session under Government Code Section 54957.6 for labor negotiations
• Negotiations with St. Helena Employees Association (SHEA) and unrepresented firefighters
• City negotiators include City Manager Anil Comelo and Assistant City Manager April Mitts
• Public comment limited to 4 minutes per person

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 9, 2022, with key actions including the first reading of a Safe Firearm Storage Ordinance and approval of amendments to contracts for temporary water and wastewater treatment operators, totaling over $1 million in new funds. The council will also consider a resolution to reimburse infrastructure project expenditures from tax-exempt bond proceeds, likely related to the recently passed Measure H. Other items include designating voting delegates for a League of California Cities conference and recognizing Julie Spencer's contributions to Rianda House.

• First reading of Safe Firearm Storage Ordinance
• Amendment No. 3 to wastewater operator contract: $270,750, total not-to-exceed $730,000
• Amendment No. 4 to water operator contract: $807,250, total not-to-exceed $2,153,355
• Resolution declaring intention to reimburse infrastructure expenditures from tax-exempt obligations
• Designation of voting delegates for League of California Cities conference

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a regular meeting with consent items including approval of minutes, a resolution extending the waiver of sign fees for business recovery, approval of an unrepresented compensation program, certification of the June 7 primary election results for Measures G and H, calling a November general election, a Measure T funding agreement, pavement restoration project plans, a water supply report, and a school resource officer MOU. Under public forum, a resident will present an appeal regarding a short-term rental permit renewal, alleging violations and misrepresentation. The council will also receive an informational presentation on the city's Pavement Management Program.

• Resolution extending waiver of sign fees for business recovery
• Resolution certifying primary election results for Measure G and Measure H
• Resolution calling November 8, 2022 general municipal election
• Approval of Measure T Master Funding Agreement with Napa Valley Transportation Authority
• Resolution approving plans for Pavement Restoration Project R22-79 and authorizing bids

City Council

This is a special closed-session meeting of the St. Helena City Council. The only substantive item is a closed-session conference with the real property negotiator regarding the terms of a contract for properties on Lower Chiles Valley Road (APNs 025-260-025, 027, & 028). No public decisions are scheduled.

• Closed session: Conference with Real Property Negotiator for APN 025-260-025, 027, & 028 on Lower Chiles Valley Road
• Negotiation parties: City Attorney, City Manager, Assistant City Manager
• Under negotiation: Terms of contract
• Public comment limited to 4 minutes per person

City Council

This is a special closed-session meeting of the St. Helena City Council, held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. The only substantive item is a closed-session discussion with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation (one case) under Government Code Section 54956.9(b). No public action is scheduled.

• Closed session: conference with legal counsel on anticipated litigation (one case)
• Meeting conducted via Zoom webinar only; no physical public access
• Public comment limited to 4 minutes per person

City Council

The joint meeting will receive public comment on the draft Housing Element Update and allow the Planning Commission and City Council to provide direction on revisions. No formal action is required at this meeting; staff recommends gathering public input and comments for future revisions.

• Public review draft Housing Element Update presented for comment
• Joint City Council and Planning Commission meeting format

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a teleconference-only meeting to consider two public hearing items: a use permit amendment for an eating and drinking establishment with accessory brewing at 1234 Main Street, and a design review and sign permit for exterior improvements at Orin Swift Cellars (1321/1325 Main Street). The commission will also elect a new chair and vice chair and administer the oath of office to a new commissioner.

• Use permit amendment for Erosion Wine Co. at 1234 Main St. for an 85-seat eating/drinking establishment with 200 gallons/year accessory brewing and expanded hours
• Design review and sign permit for exterior improvements at Orin Swift Cellars, 1321/1325 Main St.
• Nomination and election of Planning Commission Chair and Vice Chair
• Oath of office for new Planning Commissioner Christopher Warner
• Approval of June 30, 2022 minutes

Library Board of Trustees

The St. Helena Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting via Zoom to elect officers, discuss the Library of Things program, and receive reports from the Friends & Foundation and staff. The board will also review the July newsletter, June statistics, and monthly operating expenses. Public comment is limited to four minutes per speaker.

• Election of Library Board of Trustees officers
• Discussion about St. Helena Library's Library of Things
• Report from Friends & Foundation, St. Helena Public Library
• Review of Library Newsletter for July 2022
• Review of Library Statistics and Operating Expense Report for June 2022

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee will receive a presentation on the Napa County Climate Challenge website and consider a draft ordinance banning gas-powered leaf blowers, with a formal recommendation to the City Council. The meeting is held via teleconference due to COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Draft ordinance banning gas-powered leaf blowers, with rebate program for residents/businesses
• State CARB voucher program may cover up to 70% of electric leaf blower costs for small businesses
• Presentation on Napa County Climate Challenge website by Community Climate Solutions
• Public comments on leaf blower ban from Clare Barr, Ellen Kieval, Kellie Carlin, Susan McWilliams
• Approval of June 1, 2022 meeting minutes

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a special teleconference meeting to consider appointments to the Planning Commission, Active Transportation & Sustainability Committee, Library Board of Trustees, and Parks and Recreation Commission. The agenda lists expiring terms and applications received for each body. The meeting is held virtually due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Planning Commission: one term, applicants Chris Warner and Chris Fowler
• Active Transportation & Sustainability Committee: three terms, applicants Glenn Smith, Leslie Stanton, Madelyn Chandler; one alternate term left open
• Library Board of Trustees: four terms, applicants Alexandra Haslip, Patricia Ericson, Suzanne Roomian, Terry Wood, Juliet Valmont
• Parks and Recreation Commission: three terms, applicants Doug Boeschen, Michelle Deasy, Tye Taylor

Water and Wastewater Advisory Committee

The Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss the goals, expectations, and components of the water and wastewater rate study, receive a progress update, and preview a policy objectives exercise. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. The agenda includes approval of the June 14, 2022 minutes and reports from staff.

• Discussion of rate study goals, expectations, and components
• Rate study progress update
• Preview of policy objectives exercise
• Approval of June 14, 2022 meeting minutes

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will review and consider approving a plaque design for a memorial bench honoring Joice Beatty at Crane Park, as well as receive updates on 4th of July activities and ad-hoc subcommittee work. The meeting will be held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Review and consider approval of plaque design for memorial bench at Crane Park (Item 6.1)
• Update on proposed 2022 4th of July activities (Item 6.2)
• Update on ad-hoc subcommittee work (Item 6.3)
• Consent calendar: approval of May 16, 2022 meeting minutes (Item 5.1)

Water Advisory Board

This Water Advisory Board regular meeting is cancelled. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate (call to order, roll call, public forum, reports, consent calendar, old/new business, adjournment) with no substantive items listed. No decisions or discussions will occur.

• Meeting cancelled
• No agenda items listed

Water and Wastewater Advisory Committee

The St. Helena Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee is meeting to receive Brown Act training, appoint a chair and vice chair, and hear a presentation from Raftelis on water and wastewater rate setting, rate structures, and the proposed rate study process and schedule. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Brown Act training for committee members
• Chair and Vice Chair appointments
• Presentation from Raftelis on rate setting and rate structures
• Outline of proposed rate study process and schedule

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will meet remotely to decide on multiple contracts, financial reports, and appointments. Items include IT services, capital improvement plans, and the hiring of a new city manager. No major policy debates are scheduled; most items are routine approvals.

• Approve $26,028 server migration contract with MarinIT
• Approve $257,236 IT services agreement with MarinIT for FY 2022-23
• Adopt Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (2022-23 to 2026-27)
• Approve employment agreement with Dr. April Mitts as Assistant City Manager
• Appoint Anil Comelo as City Manager and approve revised salary schedule

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a closed session to discuss labor negotiations with the Police Officers Association and existing litigation in Water Audit California v. City of St. Helena. The meeting is teleconference-only due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. No public decisions are scheduled; the agenda is limited to closed-session items.

• Closed session: labor negotiations with Police Officers Association (POF)
• Closed session: legal counsel on Water Audit California v. City of St. Helena (Case No. 21CV000859)
• Teleconference-only meeting via Zoom Webinar

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a virtual meeting to consider several items, including a presentation on opinion research for a potential revenue-generating local ballot measure, an update on the Napa Valley Vine Trail alignment study, and first readings of ordinances on caregiver registration and the Parks and Recreation Commission. The council will also vote on consent items such as meeting minutes, a solid waste ordinance, and a resolution to continue virtual meetings under AB 361. A public hearing on the Mills Lane storm drain project has been continued to January 25, 2022.

• Presentation of opinion research on a June or November 2022 revenue-generating local ballot measure
• Update on Napa Valley Vine Trail alignment study through St. Helena with options for additional corridors
• First reading of ordinance transferring caregiver registration/background checks from County to California Department of Social Services
• First reading of ordinance amending Parks and Recreation Commission chapter (2.56)
• Resolution establishing funding guidelines and annual appropriations for Boys and Girls Club, Rianda House, and UpValley Family Centers

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a special closed session to discuss existing litigation with legal counsel. The only substantive item is a conference regarding the case Pacaso Inc. et al. v. City of St. Helena. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Closed session conference with legal counsel on existing litigation (Pacaso Inc. et al. v. City of St. Helena, U.S. District Court, Case No. 4:21-cv-02493-KAW)

Water Advisory Board

The regular Water Advisory Board meeting scheduled for June 3, 2022, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 17, 2022, at 10:00 am.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting: June 17, 2022 at 10:00 am

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is holding a special budget workshop to review the FY 2022-23 budget, including revenue assumptions and expense priorities, and to review the five-year Capital Improvement Program for FY 2022-23 to 2026-27. The meeting is conducted via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. No final decisions are expected; the CIP will be adopted at a later meeting.

• Review of 2023-2032 Long Range Financial Forecast
• Budget workshop for FY 2022-23 budget with revenue and expense options
• Review of Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for FY 2022-23 to 2026-27
• Public comment limited to agenda items, 4 minutes per speaker

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a closed session to discuss public employee appointments and labor negotiations with the Police Officers Association, St. Helena Employees Association, and unrepresented employees. The meeting will be conducted via teleconference due to COVID-19 emergency provisions and will not be physically open to the public.

• Closed session for Public Employee Appointment: City Manager
• Conference with Labor Negotiators: Police Officers Association (POF), St. Helena Employees Association (SHEA), and Unrepresented Employees

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is holding a special teleconference meeting to interview eight applicants for the Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee. The meeting is conducted virtually due to the COVID-19 state of emergency, with public comment limited to agenda items. The council will consider the applicants and may make appointments.

• Interview applicants for Water and Wastewater Rate Study Advisory Committee: Arlene Corsetti, Peter McCrea, Walter Nirenberg, Garry Rose, Kelly Wheaton, Mario Trinchero, Mark Smithers, Sean Maher
• Special meeting held via Zoom teleconference only, not physically open to the public
• Public comment accepted via email to [email protected] by 4:00 PM
• Meeting live-streamed on Comcast Channel 28 and city website

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a virtual meeting to consider consent items, public hearings, and new business. Key actions include adopting a police military equipment policy, discussing potential CDBG projects, and appointing members to a water rate study advisory committee. The meeting is conducted via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Resolution adopting Police Department Policy 707 'Military Equipment'
• Discussion of potential 2022 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects
• Resolution authorizing two-year agreement with Housing Authority of Napa for $114,000
• Resolution approving change orders totaling $54,840 for Emergency Back-up Power Project C20-06
• Resolution establishing appropriation limits for FY 2022-23

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a special closed session to discuss the appointment of a City Manager. This is a personnel matter, and no public decisions are expected. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with public comment limited to closed session items.

• Closed session discussion on City Manager appointment (Sec. 54957)
• Public comment limited to 4 minutes per person
• Next regular meeting scheduled for June 14, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.

Water Advisory Board

The St. Helena Water Advisory Board’s regular meeting scheduled for May 20, 2022, at 10:00 AM was cancelled. No decisions or discussions took place. The next meeting is scheduled for June 3, 2022.

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a policy on formula businesses, a resolution on flag displays, and a discussion on returning to in-person meetings. The agenda also includes consent items such as contract amendments, a housing element progress report, and a proclamation for Monarch & Pollinator Month. The meeting is held virtually due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Discussion and direction on Formula Business Zoning Policy
• Resolution rescinding 2019-66 and amending flag display policy
• Resolution authorizing $42,140 amendment to Oscar Larson contract for CIP projects (total not-to-exceed $239,830)
• Resolution authorizing Progress Pride and Transgender flags on ceremonial pole in June 2022
• Discussion on criteria for Mayor selection if Measure G passes

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a special closed session to discuss labor negotiations with employee organizations, including the Police Officers Association, St. Helena Employees Association, and unrepresented employees. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. No public decisions are expected, as the session is closed.

• Closed session under Government Code Section 54957.6 for labor negotiations
• Employee organizations: Police Officers Association (POF), St. Helena Employees Association (SHEA), Unrepresented Employees
• Agency representatives: City Manager Jim McCann, Administrative Services Director April Mitts, Assistant Administrative Services Mandy Kellogg, HR Manager Angela Cotton
• Meeting held via Zoom webinar only, not physically open to the public

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a use permit for an art gallery at 1331 Main Street. The meeting is conducted virtually via Zoom due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. The commission will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Public hearing: use permit for art gallery at 1331 Main Street (Central Business district)
• CEQA exemption determination under Section 15301
• Approval of minutes from March 15, 2022 meeting

Parks & Recreation Commission

The April 18, 2022 regular meeting of the St. Helena Parks and Recreation Commission was cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 16, 2022 at 4:30 pm.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for May 16, 2022 at 4:30 pm

Water Advisory Board

The St. Helena Water Advisory Board will consider approving a penalty adjustment appeal for Glenn Gehan, waiving all penalties incurred in June, July, and August. The board will also approve minutes from three prior meetings. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency.

• Consideration of penalty adjustment for Glenn Gehan, waiving penalties from June, July, and August
• Approval of meeting minutes from January 21, February 4, and March 18, 2022

Library Board of Trustees

The St. Helena Library Board of Trustees will meet virtually to discuss and possibly recommend a Napa Valley Vine Trail segment through the city, and to recommend City Council approval of a mural by Shannon Geis at the library. The board will also hear reports from the Friends & Foundation and review library statistics, newsletter, and operating expenses for March 2022.

• Discussion and possible recommendation on Napa Valley Vine Trail segment through St. Helena
• Discussion and possible recommendation that City Council approve a mural by Shannon Geis at the St. Helena Public Library
• Report from Friends & Foundation, St. Helena Public Library
• Review of Library Statistics for March 2022
• Review of Monthly Library Operating Expense Report for March 2022

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting via teleconference to discuss and act on several items, including a preferred alignment for the Napa Valley Vine Trail, potential parking policy changes, and a resolution declaring a climate emergency. The agenda also includes consent items such as a contract for invasive species removal and approval of an employment agreement for a new Parks & Recreation Director. A public hearing on the Mills Lane Storm Drain Improvements Project has been continued to April 26, 2022.

• Resolution to declare a climate emergency
• Professional services agreement with Artemis Habitat for $54,000 for invasive species removal at Upper York Creek
• Employment agreement for Parks & Recreation Director David Jahns with annual salary of $126,426
• Resolution approving Napa Valley Community Housing as property manager for affordable housing at 963 Pope Street and 723 Hunt Avenue
• Discussion of preferred alignment for Napa Valley Vine Trail through St. Helena

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee will receive a presentation from Schools for Climate Action and review a draft Climate Emergency Resolution, potentially making a recommendation. They will also get an update on the Vine Trail alignment through St. Helena and consider approving minutes from prior meetings.

• Receive presentation from Schools for Climate Action
• Review and provide recommendation on draft Climate Emergency Resolution
• Update on Vine Trail alignment through the City of St. Helena
• Approve minutes from Feb 1, 2022 and Mar 2, 2022 meetings

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will consider approving a professional services agreement with Raftelis Financial Consultants for a Water and Wastewater Rate Study, with a total not-to-exceed amount of $146,310, funded by water and wastewater enterprise fund balances. The council will also provide preliminary direction on the rate study approach. Additionally, the council will discuss a request to fly the Ukrainian flag on the ceremonial flag pole and provide direction on the duration.

• Resolution approving Professional Services Agreement with Raftelis Financial Consultants for Water and Wastewater Rate Study, total not to exceed $146,310
• Budget increase of $73,155 to water enterprise fund (561-43-00-21-45) and $73,155 to wastewater enterprise fund (571-43-00-21-45)
• Preliminary direction on rate study approach
• Resolution authorizing Ukrainian flag to be flown on ceremonial flag pole, with direction on duration

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a virtual meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a proposed ordinance regulating timeshares, a preferred alignment for the Napa Valley Vine Trail through the city, and a water and wastewater rate study contract. The meeting also includes consent items such as approving meeting minutes and a resolution to continue virtual meetings under AB 361.

• Ordinance adding Chapter 17.138 'Time Share Uses' to the zoning code, amending Central Business and Service Commercial sections
• Discussion of preferred alignment for the Napa Valley Vine Trail corridor through St. Helena
• Resolution approving a $146,310 professional services agreement with Raftelis Financial Consultants for a water and wastewater rate study
• Resolution making findings under AB 361 to continue virtual meetings
• Second reading of ordinance for electronic and paperless filing of campaign disclosure statements

Water Advisory Board

The St. Helena Water Advisory Board will meet virtually to discuss and potentially waive water penalty fees for several local customers. The board will also review a summary of past penalty appeals and provide feedback to staff. No major decisions on water infrastructure or policy are scheduled.

• Consideration of Penalty Adjustment for Kenneth Novack
• Water Appeal Summary and Feedback for Staff
• Review of past penalty waivers for Ana Scofield, Claudia Schmidt, Depot Associates, Howard Smith, Joseph Gatens, and Tami Glenn

Planning Commission

The St. Helena Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a use permit for Trek Retail Corporation to operate St. Helena Cyclery as a formula business at 1156 Main St. The meeting is held virtually via Zoom due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. The agenda also includes approval of the March 1, 2022 minutes and public comment opportunities.

• Use permit for Trek Retail Corporation to operate as a formula business at 1156 Main St.
• CEQA exemption determination under Section 15301 for existing facility
• Approval of minutes from March 1, 2022 meeting
• Public comment via email by 3:00 PM or live via Zoom

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will hold a special teleconference meeting to discuss and direct the ballot argument for Measure G, which proposes eliminating the directly elected mayor position. The council will provide direction on the 300-word argument due by March 18, 2022, under Elections Code requirements. No other substantive items are listed for decision.

• Discussion and direction for City Council ballot argument for Measure G (eliminating directly elected mayor)
• Ballot argument due by March 18, 2022, limited to 300 words per Elections Code

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet virtually to review February 2022 library statistics, operating expenses, and a draft newsletter. Trustees will also discuss whether future meetings should be held in-person, virtually, or both, and how the library can better serve community segments.

• Review of February 2022 library statistics and operating expense report
• Discussion on format of future Library Board meetings (virtual vs. in-person)
• Review of draft March 2022 library newsletter
• Report from Friends & Foundation on fundraising and new website (shplfoundation.org)
• Discussion on improving library services for underserved community segments

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting virtually to consider consent items including a $48,000 contract for invasive species management and a $94,740 agreement for pavement restoration, plus a first reading of an ordinance on electronic filing of campaign disclosures. The agenda also includes a continued public hearing on the Mills Lane Storm Drain Improvements Project, which is being postponed again to March 22, and a discussion on the Capital Improvement Program. The meeting is procedural with no major policy decisions expected beyond the listed approvals.

• Professional Services Agreement with Artemis Habitat for $48,000 for invasive species management at Upper York Creek
• Professional Services Agreement with Green Valley Consulting Engineers for $94,740 for R19-79 Pavement Restoration Project
• First reading of ordinance for electronic and paperless filing of campaign disclosure statements
• Public hearing on Mills Lane Storm Drain Improvements Project continued to March 22, 2022
• Resolution to continue virtual meetings under AB 361

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee and Parks and Recreation Commission will jointly discuss and consider a formal recommendation on the alignment of the Napa Valley Vine Trail through St. Helena. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for its March 22, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes a presentation, public comment, and a request for a joint motion on the preferred route.

• Discussion and recommendation on Vine Trail alignment through St. Helena
• Consideration of route options including Oak Avenue, Church Street, and Mills Lane
• Review of outreach results: 420 survey responses and multiple public meetings
• Parking study conducted by Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition
• Public comment period with 51 submitted comments

City Council

This is a special joint City Council and Planning Commission meeting held via teleconference to continue discussion on the Housing Element Update, focusing on the draft housing opportunity sites inventory. Staff seeks feedback from both bodies on proposed sites, including whether to add or remove any sites, and to confirm the inventory to proceed with the update. No formal action is required; the meeting is for discussion and input.

• Discussion of draft housing opportunity sites inventory for Housing Element Update
• Request for feedback on proposed sites, additions, and removals
• Public comments from Nancy Dervin, Pat Friday, and Rick Crebs
• Meeting held via Zoom teleconference due to COVID-19 state of emergency

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a special closed session to consider the appointment of a City Manager. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. Public comment is limited to items on the closed session agenda.

• Closed session discussion on City Manager appointment (Sec. 54957)
• Teleconference-only meeting under AB 361 due to COVID-19
• Public comment limited to 4 minutes per person

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will consider placing a general obligation bond measure and a measure to change the mayor's office from elected to appointed on the June 7, 2022 ballot. They will also appoint an interim city manager and approve several contracts and policy updates. The meeting is held virtually due to COVID-19.

• Resolution to call special election on June 7, 2022 to change mayor from elected to appointed
• Initiate proceedings for a General Obligation Bond measure on June 7, 2022 ballot
• Approve $250,000 permanent loan to Our Town St. Helena for 963 Pope Street development
• Approve contract amendments: $3,000 to 4Leaf, Inc. (total $62,890) and $10,000 to Accent on Language (total $41,000)
• Appoint James C. McCann as Interim City Manager

Parks & Recreation Commission

The St. Helena Parks and Recreation Commission is holding a special meeting focused on governance and training. The agenda includes an annual Brown Act review by the City Clerk, recognition of an ordinance amending the commission's scope, a team-building exercise, and a review of council and commission rules and procedures. No substantive action items are scheduled; the meeting is largely informational and procedural.

• Annual Brown Act review by City Clerk Cindy Tzafopoulos (informational only)
• Recognition of adoption of ordinance amending Parks & Recreation Commission's scope (Chapter 2.56 of Municipal Code)
• Annual governance review of Council and Commission rules and procedures (not an action item)
• Review of Institute for Local Government 'Attributes of Exceptional Boards' document
• Commission team building exercise

Water Advisory Board

The St. Helena Water Advisory Board will consider two requests to waive water penalty fees incurred during Phase II water restrictions. The board will review each case and decide whether to grant a reduction, following the city's leak adjustment policy. One agenda item was pulled and will not be heard.

• Penalty waiver request for Faith Wheeler, 2200 Spring Mtn Rd, totaling $9,153.86
• Penalty waiver request for Mary Moutinho (owner Robert Vanhellemon), totaling $9,848.43
• Item 7.3 (Woodbridge Village Apartments penalty waiver) will not be heard
• Meeting held via Zoom due to COVID-19 state of emergency

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee will hold a teleconference meeting to discuss several administrative and governance items, including designating a member to the Blue Zones Built Environment Committee, an annual Brown Act review, team building, and governance rules. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Designation of an ATSC member to sit on the Blue Zones Built Environment Committee
• Annual Brown Act Review by City Clerk (informational only)
• Team Building Discussion
• Annual Governance Review of Council and Commission Rules and Procedures (not an action item)
• Review of Institute for Local Government 'Attributes of Exceptional Boards' document

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a special closed session to discuss the appointment of an Interim City Manager. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. Public comment is limited to four minutes per person.

• Closed session: Public Employee Appointment (Sec. 54957) for Interim City Manager
• Teleconference-only meeting under Brown Act (AB 361)
• Public comment limited to 4 minutes

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting virtually to discuss and provide direction on a potential ballot measure to eliminate a directly elected mayor, review the FY 2022-23 budget calendar, and set the 2022 meeting schedule. Consent items include contract amendments for temporary water and wastewater treatment operators totaling over $448,000, and a resolution for employee relations training at no cost. A public hearing on the Mills Lane Storm Drain Improvements Project was continued to February 8, 2022.

• Discussion on potential ballot measure to eliminate directly elected mayor
• Contract amendment for temporary wastewater operators: $100,293 (total not-to-exceed $200,913)
• Contract amendment for temporary water operators: $348,561 (total not-to-exceed $783,491)
• Resolution for Vine Trail Route Study additional $11,000 (total not-to-exceed $792,600)
• Mills Lane Storm Drain Improvements Project continued to February 8, 2022

City Council

The St. Helena City Council is meeting in a special closed session to discuss two items: existing litigation with Pacaso Inc. over fractional home ownership, and labor negotiations with police and employee associations. The meeting is held via teleconference due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. Public comments submitted before the meeting urge the city to ban Pacaso and address housing concerns.

• Closed session on Pacaso Inc. v. City of St. Helena (U.S. District Court, Case No. 4:21-cv-02493-KAW)
• Closed session on labor negotiations with Police Officers Association, St. Helena Employees Association, and unrepresented employees
• Public comments submitted regarding Pacaso and timeshare regulations
• Meeting held via Zoom webinar only, no physical public access

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will discuss funding options for $53.94 million in near-term water, sewer, and storm drain infrastructure projects, including the possibility of placing a $54 million general obligation bond on the June 2022 ballot. The workshop will review project lists, compare GO bonds versus rate-based revenue bonds, and take public comment. No final decision is expected; the council will provide direction.

• Consideration of $54 million general obligation bond for June 2022 ballot
• Storm drain projects totaling $10.53 million (no existing funding source)
• Water projects totaling $38.48 million, including Bell Canyon intake tower replacement and new water treatment plant
• Sewer projects totaling $4.93 million, including WWTP recycling pipeline and lift station upgrades
• Sample ballot question: $54M bond, ~$41 per $100,000 assessed value, ~$3.5M annual levy

Water Advisory Board

The St. Helena Water Advisory Board will discuss and provide direction on David Knobel's request for a water allocation exception at 1700 Howell Mountain Road, seeking an additional 103,500 gallons per day for outdoor landscaping. The board will also consider three water penalty adjustment requests from Kee, Del Dotto, and Gehan. The meeting is held via teleconference due to COVID-19.

• Water allocation exception request by David Knobel for 1700 Howell Mountain Rd, seeking 103,500 gallons/day additional outdoor landscape allocation
• Penalty adjustment request by C. Kee (continued item)
• Penalty adjustment request by David & Yolanda Del Dotto
• Penalty adjustment request by Glenn Gehan

City Council

The St. Helena City Council will meet in a special closed session on January 18, 2022, via teleconference. The sole agenda item is the public employee appointment of an Interim City Manager. The meeting is closed to the public physically, but public comment is permitted via Zoom or telephone.

• Public employee appointment for Interim City Manager (Government Code Section 54957)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission regular meeting scheduled for January 17, 2022, is cancelled. The next meeting will be a special meeting held on February 7th at 5:30 pm.

• January 17, 2022 regular meeting cancelled
• Next meeting: special meeting on February 7th at 5:30 pm

Library Board of Trustees

The St. Helena Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular teleconference meeting on January 12, 2022. They will review library statistics for November and December 2021, the December operating expense report, and discuss community outreach gaps. The board will also hear a report from the Friends & Foundation and consider approving the November 10, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Approve minutes of November 10, 2021 meeting
• Report from Friends & Foundation, St. Helena Public Library
• Discussion on community areas the library may not be reaching
• Review of Library Statistics for November 2021 (digital circulation 2,257)
• Review of Library Statistics for December 2021 (digital circulation 2,062)

Water Advisory Board

This meeting of the St. Helena Water Advisory Board, scheduled for January 7, 2022, has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee

The January 5, 2022 regular meeting of the Active Transportation and Sustainability Committee is cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 2, 2022 at 5:00 pm, at a location to be determined.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for February 2, 2022 at 5:00 pm