The plan, which builds on a five-year guideline that was set in 2006, includes yearly budget estimates for long-term projects through the fiscal year 2021-22. Among the departments covered in the plan are Parks and Recreation, facilities, streets, drainage, traffic mitigation, transit, sewer and water.
Matt van der Linden, Solvang Public Works director, presented the plan to the council, noting that many of the capital improvements are for upgrades and preventative projects that would offset potentially more expensive replacements down the line.
The annual budgets average around $2 million, though fiscal years 2013-14 and 2014-15 are listed at $4.99 million and $3.69 million, respectively, due to the cost of the New River Wells and Water Treatment Plant project. Taking that venture into account was a key issue brought up by councilman Ken Palmer, who is heavily involved in water issues but will be retiring from the council this year.
“The water master plan is still under consideration and events are still occurring,” Palmer told his fellow council members, “so I would ask the council to be aware that I will be standing in the pit in front of you when this object comes up for discussion.”
Mayor Jim Richardson said he’d welcome Palmer’s input.
“I’m actually looking forward to that, and I encourage you to come and help us with this plan,” he said.
Also at Monday’s meeting, the council unanimously approved a transit plan update, which builds on the 2008 plan. The update was spurred by changes in economic conditions and includes a rider survey, community intercept study and evaluations of fixed-route service through ride checks. Funds for the transit system do not come from the city’s general fund, but instead from allocated money from the federal, state or local level for specific transit use.
The next council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 24. willis@syvjournal.com