(a) Strategic Plan. By December 1, 2000, with input from the Committee, the Department shall prepare, for Commission consideration and approval, a five-year Strategic Plan, to be updated annually, that establishes or reaffirms the mission, vision, goals and objectives for the Department. The Department shall consider using an independent planning consultant to assist with preparation of the Strategic Plan.
(b) Capital Plan. By December 1, 2000, with input from the Committee, the Department shall prepare, for Commission consideration and approval, a five-year Capital Plan, to be updated annually, for the development, renovation, replacement and maintenance of capital assets, and the acquisition of real property. In its Capital Plan the Department shall propose specific properties to be acquired for open space, recreation facilities, significant natural areas, and other recreational purposes and shall prioritize capital and maintenance improvements and provide budgets associated with such improvements. In identifying properties for acquisition under the Capital Plan the Department shall consider, among other things, the following criteria, in this order:
(1) Acquisition of open space, facilities and other real property in neighborhoods designated as "high need areas" in the "Recreation and Open Space Element" of the City's General Plan;
(2) Acquisition of open space, facilities and other real property in neighborhoods that are experiencing a significant increase in residential population and that have few open space or recreational resources; and
(3) Acquisition of significant natural areas that are not otherwise protected from degradation or development. Commencing on July 1, 2000, the Department shall make a monthly report to the Commission on the status of all capital projects.
(c) Operational Plan. By December 1, 2001, with input from the Committee, the Department shall prepare, for Commission consideration and approval, a five-year Operational Plan, to be updated annually, detailing proposed improvements to the Department's services and responsiveness to customer needs. The annual Operational Plan will serve as a tool for improving the operational efficiency of the Department and will include measurable performance standards for the Department. In developing its performance standards the Department shall consider, among other matters, the following issues:
(1) Public safety, which shall include the reduction of environmental and other hazards, safe equipment operations and safe pesticide use;
(2) Detailed maintenance work plans for each facility, including preventative maintenance;
(3) Arboreal maintenance and reforestation of all parks;
(4) Facility and landscape cleanliness, including timely graffiti removal;
(5) Availability and cleanliness of restrooms; and
(6) Maintenance of park and facility signage, furniture and amenities.
(d) Environmental and Design Guidelines. The Commission shall adopt written environmental and design guidelines for new facilities, parks, and open spaces and the renovation or rehabilitation of existing facilities, parks, and open spaces. In developing its guidelines, the Commission shall consider measures that will accomplish the following goals, among others:
(1) Maximizing the visual appeal and natural values of the landscape as appropriate;
(2) Utilizing low-maintenance, long-lived, water-conserving plant materials where possible without compromising the aesthetic values of sound landscape design and public preferences;
(3) Encouraging the use of ecologically-appropriate landscape materials to expand and enhance habitat for wildlife;
(4) Providing consistent, attractive and durable furniture, signage, and park amenities; and
(5) Incorporating environmentally-efficient building design materials, operation, and maintenance for all new construction and buildings renovation.
(Added by Ord. 118-00, File No. 000478, App. 6/2/2000)