REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
DATE: 07/03/2024
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: City Manager’s Office
SUBJECT:
Title
RESOLUTION DECLARING THE CITY COUNCIL’S INTENT TO PRESERVE THE SKYLINE TRAIL AREA
End
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
In 2020, the City purchased 292 acres near the Skyline Trail Area to prevent its development and maintain its value as a natural habitat and recreational resource. Resolution No. 2024-076 seeks to reaffirm the City Council’s original intent to preserve this area in its natural state while allowing for minor amenities that enhance public enjoyment and accessibility with minimal environmental impact. Adopting this resolution will ensure the long-term preservation of the Skyline Trail Area for current and future generations.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Recommended action
That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2024-076, affirming its intent to preserve the 292 acres of the Skyline Trail Area in its natural state.
Body
BACKGROUND & HISTORY:
The City of Corona has a longstanding commitment to preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the City's open spaces. In 2020, the City purchased 292 acres near the Skyline Trail Area, located generally south of Burrero Way, identified by Assessor Parcel Numbers (APN) 275-090-013 and 275-070-010. This purchase was made to prevent future development and to recognize the area's value as a natural habitat and recreational asset for the community.
The City Council intended to maintain this Skyline Trail Area in its natural state for the benefit of current and future generations, with allowances for minor amenities to enhance public enjoyment and accessibility. These minor amenities may include but are not limited to, pedestrian bridges, seating, shade structures, trail markers, and signage, all designed to have minimal impact on the natural environment.
Preserving the Skyline Trail Area aligns with the City's fifth Strategic Goal: Sense of Place, by furthering its commitment toward environmental stewardship, promoting outdoor recreation, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
ANALYSIS:
Resolution No. 2024-076 emphasizes the following key points:
1. Affirmation of Preservation Commitment: Preserve the Skyline Trail Area in its natural state.
2. Permitted Amenities: Only minor amenities shall be permitted within the Skyline Trail Area, and these amenities will be designed and implemented to minimize environmental impact.
3. Environmental Stewardship: The City will continue to prioritize environmental stewardship in all activities related to the Skyline Trail Area, guaranteeing that any improvements and maintenance efforts respect the natural landscape.
4. Future Generations: The resolution provides that the Skyline Trail Area's natural beauty and ecological integrity are preserved for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations.
The resolution's adoption will reinforce the City's dedication to environmental preservation and enhance the community's quality of life by maintaining this significant natural asset.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The adoption of this resolution has no immediate financial impact. Any future costs associated with implementing minor amenities or maintaining the Skyline Trail Area will be subject to the City’s budgetary and approval processes.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS:
This action is exempt from environmental review under the under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. This section, known as the commonsense exemption, stipulates that CEQA applies only to projects with the potential for significant environmental effects. When it is evident that an activity will not significantly impact the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. This resolution seeks the Council's approval to preserve the Skyline Trail area, ensuring its protection for future generations.
PREPARED BY: PATRICK MANN, CITY MANAGEMENT FELLOW
REVIEWED BY: JUSTIN TUCKER, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER
Attachments:
1. Exhibit 1 - Resolution No. 2024-076
2. Exhibit 2 - Future Agenda Item Request