DATE: February 28, 2006
TO: Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT: SANTA MARIA CREEK GREENWAY
SUMMARY:
Overview
The recommended action directs the Chief Administrative Officer to prepare
an action plan and approximate timeline for the development of the Santa
Maria Creek Greenway. The Santa Maria Creek Greenway is located in the
North County Multiple Species Conservation Program Plan Study Area and
traverses the Ramona Grasslands Preserve.
Recommendations
SUPERVISOR JACOB:
- Find that the proposed project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15262.
- Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to prepare an action plan and approximate timeline for the development of a Greenway at Santa Maria Creek beginning at Wellfield Park and ending at the North Western edge of the Ramona Valley and also identify a trail corridor within the Greenway.
- Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to identify potential sources of funding for the acquisition of land and/or easements from willing sellers, and management, monitoring and maintenance needs of the Greenway.
- Authorize the Chief Administrative Officer or his designee to apply for and accept funding for projects that support the establishment and implementation of the Santa Maria Creek Greenway.
- Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to bring the action plan, approximate timeline, and trail corridor identification back to the Board for its review and approval within 120 days.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact related to this proposal.
BACKGROUND:
In 1997, the County of San Diego Board of Supervisors adopted the Multiple
Species Conservation Program (MSCP) Sub-Area Plan for South County which
preserves habitat for endangered plant and animal species while ensuring
continued economic development. Currently, the County is drafting the
North County MSCP Plan.
In 2001, the County Board of Supervisors voted to direct staff to work
with interested parties to identify and obtain funding to acquire land
along the Santa Maria Creek for the establishment of a river park. Today’s
action will build upon that direction by establishing the Santa Maria
Creek Greenway.
The Santa Maria Creek Greenway is located in the proposed County of San
Diego North County MSCP Plan and portions are also included in the Ramona
Grasslands Preserve. The Santa Maria Creek Greenway would enhance the
quality of life in the unincorporated area by providing a new passive
park for recreation for San Diego County residents. This action directs
County staff to prepare an action plan and approximate timeline for the
development of a greenway at Santa Maria Creek and to determine its boundaries
beginning at Wellfield Park and ending at the North Western edge of the
Ramona Valley. Staff is also being directed to identify potential sources
of funding for the acquisition of land and/or easements from willing sellers,
and management, monitoring and maintenance needs of the Greenway.
The Santa Maria Creek Greenway would be a valuable asset to the community
and the entire San Diego region by: 1) establishing a passive park that
preserves the area’s rural character; 2) establishing a trail corridor;
3) creating a natural buffer between commercial and residential uses;
4) increasing flood protection and natural filtering of runoff water flowing
into the creek; and 5) protecting species and habitats that represent
the unique biodiversity of San Diego County.
With this action, the Board of Supervisors promotes San Diego’s
natural beauty and supports the importance of the region’s natural
and cultural resources. By taking these steps, this Board will be continuing
its commitment to protecting San Diego’s natural resources -- ensuring
that they exist for the enjoyment of not only this generation but also
future generations.
I urge your support.
Respectfully submitted,
DIANNE JACOB
Supervisor, Second District
