HomeMy WebLinkAbout101420 Planning Commission PacketSaratoga Planning Commission Agenda – Page 1 of 3
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 14, 2020
7:00 P.M. - PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
Teleconference/Public Participation Information to Mitigate the Spread of COVID‐19
This meeting will be entirely by teleconference. All Commission members and staff will only
participate via the Zoom platform using the process described below. The meeting is being
conducted in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain
teleconference rules required by the Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide
the safest environment for the public, elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued
operation of the government and public participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
The public will not be able to participate in the meeting in person. Members of the public view
and participate in the meeting by:
1. Using the Zoom website https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89488448911 App (Webinar ID 894
8844 8911) and using the tool to raise their hand in the Zoom platform when directed by
the Chair to speak on an agenda item; OR
2. Calling 1.669.900.6833 or 1.408.638.0968 and pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on
an agenda item when directed by the Chair; OR
3. Viewing the meeting on Saratoga Community Access Television Channel 15 (Comcast
Channel 15, AT&T UVerse Channel 99) and calling 1.669.900.6833 or 1.408.638.0968
and pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on an agenda item when directed by the
Chair; OR
4. Viewing online at http://saratoga.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=2 and
calling 1.669.900.6833 or 1.408.638.0968 and pressing *9 to raise their hand to speak on
an agenda item when directed by the Chair.
During the meeting the Chair will explain the process for members of the public to be recognized
to offer public comment.
As always, members of the public can send written comments to the Commission prior to the
meeting by commenting online at www.saratoga.ca.us/pc prior to the start of the meeting. These
emails will be provided to the members of the Commission and will become part of the official
record of the meeting.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if
you need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk
at debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as possible before the meeting. The
City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much
accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety.
Saratoga Planning Commission Agenda – Page 2 of 3
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Action Minutes from the Planning Commission Meeting of September 9, 2020.
Recommended Action:
Approve Minutes of September 9, 2020 Planning Commission Meeting.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
Any member of the public will be allowed to address the Planning Commission for up to three
(3) minutes on matters not on this agenda. This law generally prohibits the Planning
Commission from discussing or taking action on such items. However, the Planning Commission
may instruct staff accordingly regarding Oral Communications.
REPORT ON APPEAL RIGHTS
If you wish to appeal any decision on this Agenda, you may file an Appeal Application with the
City Clerk within fifteen (15) calendar days of the date of the decision.
1. NEW BUSINESS
1.1 Saratoga Climate Action Plan
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution 20-017 finding the Climate Action Plan (CAP) conforms to the Saratoga
General Plan.
2. PUBLIC HEARING
Applicants and/or their representatives have a total of ten (10) minutes maximum for
opening statements. All interested persons may appear and be heard during this meeting
regarding the items on this agenda. If items on this agenda are challenged in court,
members of the public may be limited to raising only issues raised at the Public Hearing or
in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to the close of
the Public Hearing. Members of the public may comment on any item for up to three (3)
minutes. Applicants and/or their representatives have a total of five (5) minutes maximum
for closing statements.
2.1 Application PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031; Wildcat Road (517-22-108); Samir &
Alfa Savla (Owner) / D&Z Design Associates (Applicant) – The applicant requests Design
Review approval to construct a new 6,184 square foot two story single family residence with
a 1,871 square foot basement on a 2.61 acre vacant site with a maximum overall building
height of 26 feet. The project will include a driveway with access to Piedmont Road and a
vehicle bridge to span Wildcat Creek. Thirty-eight (38) protected trees are proposed for
removal. The site is R-1-40,000 with a General Plan Designation of RVLD (Residential Very
Low Density). Staff Contact: Christopher Riordan (408) 868-1235 or
criordan@saratoga.ca.us.
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 20-016 approving the project subject to conditions of approval included
in Attachment 1.
Saratoga Planning Commission Agenda – Page 3 of 3
3. DIRECTOR ITEMS
4. COMMISSION ITEMS
5. ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF THE AGENDA
PACKET, COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
I, Frances Reed, Administrative Assistant for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing
agenda for the meeting of the Planning Commission was posted and available for review on
October 9, 2020 at the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California and on the
City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us. Signed this 9th day of October 2020 at Saratoga, California.
Frances Reed, Administrative Technician.
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials
provided to the Planning Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda, copies of
materials distributed to the Planning Commission concurrently with the posting of the agenda,
and materials distributed to the Planning Commission by staff after the posting of the agenda are
available on the City Website at www.saratoga.ca.us. Following removal of State and local shelter
in place orders these materials will be available for review in the office of the City Clerk at 13777
Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California.
In Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in
this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as
soon as possible before the meeting. The City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable
accommodations to provide as much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety.
[28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA title II]
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 1 of 3
DRAFT MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2020
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
Chair Mohiuddin called the virtual Regular Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. via teleconferencing
through Zoom. Prior to Roll Call, the Chair and Community Development Director explained that
the Planning Commission meeting was conducted pursuant to provisions of the Brown Act and a
recent Executive Order issued by the Governor to facilitate teleconferencing to reduce the risk of
COVID-19 transmission at public meetings. Ordinarily the Brown Act sets strict rules for
teleconferencing. The Governor’s Executive Order has suspended those rules. The Executive
Order does require that public agencies continue to notice meetings in advance and provide
members of the public an opportunity to observe the meeting and offer public comment. The
Planning Commission met all the applicable notice requirements and the public is welcome to
participate in this meeting. Information on how the public can observe the meeting and provide
public comment was also shared. Additionally, the Chair explained that votes would be taken
through roll call.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT:Chair Razi Mohiuddin, Vice Chair Anjali Kausar, Commissioners Sunil
Ahuja, Clinton Brownley, Kookie Fitzsimmons, Tina Walia and Herman
Zheng
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT:Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Christopher Riordan, Senior Planner
Nicole Johnson, Senior Planner
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Action Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission Meeting of August 12, 2020.
Recommended Action:
Approve Minutes of Regular Planning Commission Meeting of August 12, 2020.
WALIA/KAUSAR MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 12, 2020
MEETING. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, BROWNLEY, FITZSIMMONS, KAUSAR,
MOHIUDDIN, WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
REPORT ON APPEAL RIGHTS
NEW BUSINESS
PUBLIC HEARING
2.1 Application CUP15-0002/PDR15-0019/ARB15-0053/ENV16-0001; Saratoga
Creek Drive (389-06-0020 & 389-06-021); Golden Age Prop Saratoga LLC/Palm Villas
Saratoga – The applicant is proposing a Conditional Use Permit and Design Review approval
4
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 2 of 3
for a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE). The RCFE would consist of two
buildings on two adjacent lots that have been designed to function as a single complex. One
building would be for individuals with mild stage Alzheimer’s/Dementia and the second for
individuals with advanced stage Alzheimer’s/Dementia. Five protected trees are requested for
removal. The site is zoned Professional and Administrative Office District (PA) with a
General Plan Designation of PA (Professional Administrative). An Environmental Impact
Report has been prepared. Staff contact: Nicole Johnson: (408) 868-1209 or
njohnson@saratoga.ca.us.
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 20-013 certifying the EIR and adopting the Mitigation Monitoring
and Reporting Program included in Attachment 1; and
2. Adopt Resolution No. 20-014 approving the proposed RCFE subject to conditions of
approval included in Attachment 2.
Planning Commission received Public Comment.
Manny Cappello spoke about the proposed project.
Daryl Abrams spoke about the proposed project.
Cheriel Jensen spoke about the proposed project.
Tyler Taylor spoke about the proposed project.
Rick Waltonsmith spoke about the proposed project.
Todd Amspoker spoke about the proposed project.
Emily Lo spoke about the proposed project.
Andrey Tovchigrechko spoke about the proposed project.
Bruce Friesen spoke about the proposed project.
Ketan Jashapara spoke about the proposed project.
Phil Young spoke about the proposed project.
Lisa Oakley spoke about the proposed project.
Bob Shepard spoke about the proposed project.
Tamara Abrams spoke about the proposed project.
Justin Lue spoke about the proposed project.
Doug Robertson spoke about the proposed project.
Coleen spoke about the proposed project.
Markus Breitbach spoke about the proposed project.
Patti Workman spoke about the proposed project.
Chuck Page spoke about the proposed project.
Brent Fairbanks spoke about the proposed project.
Glenn Bray spoke about the proposed project.
Ken Czworniak spoke about the proposed project.
Renee Paquier spoke about the proposed project.
Katherine Tseng spoke about the proposed project.
Peter Marra spoke about the proposed project.
WALIA/AHUJA MOVED TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 20-013 CERTIFYING THE
EIR AND ADOPTING THE MMRP. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, BROWNLEY,
FITZSIMMONS, KAUSAR, MOHIUDDIN, WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE. ABSENT:
NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE.
5
Saratoga Planning Commission Draft Minutes – Page 3 of 3
WALIA/FITZSIMMONS MOVED TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 20-014, APPROVING
ALTERNATIVE NO. 3 IDENTIFIED IN THE FINAL EIR FOR CUP15-0002/PDR15-
0019/ARB15-0053. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, BROWNLEY, FITZSIMMONS,
KAUSAR, MOHIUDDIN, WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN:
NONE.
2.2 Application ZOA20-0002 – City Code Amendments (City Wide): Amendments to
Saratoga City Code Article 15-56 (Accessory Dwelling units) pursuant to State Legislation.
These amendments include reducing onsite parking requirements for accessory dwelling units;
allowing detached accessory dwelling units to be located within side and rear setback areas of
parcels located in residential zoning districts subject to height and floor area limitations; the
elimination of minimum parcel size requirements; allowing both a Junior Accessory Dwelling
Unit and a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit to be located on a single-family zoned parcel;
allowing a lot with a multifamily dwelling to have two detached accessory dwelling units
subject to setback, height, and floor area limitations; the conversion of existing non-livable
space within a multifamily dwelling to accessory dwelling units; restricting the use of
accessory dwelling units as short-term rentals; removing the owner-occupancy restrictions on
parcels which contain an accessory dwelling unit; and reducing the time period that the City
must act on an accessory dwelling unit application from 120 days to 60 days. Staff contact:
Christopher Riordan: (408) 868-1235 or criordan@saratoga.ca.us.
Recommended Action:
Adopt Resolution No. 20-015 recommending the City Council adopt an ordinance amending
Article 15-56 of the Saratoga City Code (Accessory Dwelling Units).
WALIA/KAUSAR MOVED TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 20-015 RECOMMENDING
CITY COUNCIL ADOPTION OF AMENDMENTS TO CITY CODE ARTICLE 15-
56. MOTION PASSED. AYES: AHUJA, BROWNLEY, FITZSIMMONS, KAUSAR,
MOHIUDDIN, WALIA, ZHENG. NOES: NONE. ABSENT: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE.
DIRECTOR ITEMS
3.1 Next Steps on General Plan Update
3.2 November Planning Commission Meeting Date
Planning Commission decided to hold November meetings on November 9th (site visits) and
November 10th (regular meeting).
COMMISSION ITEMS - NONE
ADJOURNMENT -Meeting was adjourned at 10:18 PM
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Frances Reed, Administrative Technician
City of Saratoga
6
REPORT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
Meeting Date:October 14, 2020
Application:Climate Action Plan 2030
Location / APN:Citywide
Owner / Applicant:City of Saratoga
From:Mainini Cabute, Environmental Programs Manager
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution 20-017 finding the Climate Action Plan (CAP) conforms to the Saratoga General
Plan.
BACKGROUND
In August 2019, the City Council directed staff to develop a Climate Action Plan (CAP) that
incorporates both municipal and community wide impacts. Adopting a CAP demonstrates a
municipality’s commitment to reducing GHG emissions on the local level. Senate Bill (SB) 32,
passed in 2016, establishes a statewide mandate to reduce emissions 40 percent below 1990 levels
by 2030.
In December 2019, the City Council authorized an agreement with Christine O’Rourke and
Associates to develop a CAP for the City. In April 2020, the Planning Commission received an
update on the progress of the report and requested to see the CAP once it was complete. In August
2020, a draft plan was developed which intends to accomplish the following:
Summarizes various climate-related regulations at the international, federal, and state levels.
Incorporates the City’s 2017 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, which identifies sources
of greenhouse gas emissions generated by the community.
Estimates how these emissions might change over time under a business-as-usual forecast
that utilizes General Plan build-out estimates and regional forecasts.
Establishes greenhouse gas reduction targets that reflect statewide goals.
Provides energy use, transportation, waste, water, and natural system strategies and specific
actions that substantial evidence demonstrates, if fully implemented, will collectively achieve
the targeted emissions level for the year 2030.
Incorporates strategies to adapt to climate change.
Includes an implementation schedule and performance measures to enable the City to annually
track its progress and set priorities.
7
Report to the Planning Commission
Climate Action Plan 2030
October 14, 2020
Page | 2
The City of Saratoga’s General Plan contains policies and programs that promote community
sustainability, the proposed strategies and actions in the CAP follow the General Plan policies and a
conformity finding can be supported.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution
2. Draft Climate Action Plan 2030
8
RESOLUTION NO: 20-017
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
DETERMINING THAT THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN GOALS AND
STRATEGIES CONFORM TO THE GENERAL PLAN
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the City of Saratoga Climate
Action Plan 2030, which includes a description of the goals and strategies; and
NOW THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga does
hereby find that the City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 2030 conforms to the Goals and
Policies of the City of Saratoga General Plan Elements.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission on this 14th
day of October 2020 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Razi Mohiuddin
Chair, Planning Commission
9
Draft October 6, 2020
Prepared for
City of Saratoga
Prepared by
CITY OF SARATOGA
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN 2030
10
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan i
Credits and Acknowledgments
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
Howard Miller, Mayor
Mary-Lynne Bernald, Vice Mayor
Rishi Kumar, Council Member
Yan Zhao, Council Member
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
Razi Mohiuddin, Chair
Anjali Kausar, Vice-Chair
Sunil Ahujal, Planning Commissioner
Clinton Brownley, Planning Commissioner
Kookie Fitzsimmons, Planning Commissioner
Tina Walia, Planning Commissioner
Herman Zheng, Planning Commissioner
SARATOGA CITY STAFF
James Lindsay, City Manager
John Cherbone, Director of Public Works
Mainini Cabute, Environmental Programs Administrator
O’ROURKE & ASSOCIATES
Christine O’Rourke, Principal
11
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I NTRODUCTION 1
P URPOSE OF THE CLIMATE A CTION P LAN 1
RELATIONSHIP TO THE GENERAL P LAN 1
C LIMATE C HANGE B ACKGROUND 2
T HE E COLOGICAL F OOTPRINT 3
C LIMATE C HANGE IMPACTS IN CALIFORNIA, THE B AY A REA, AND S ARATOGA 4
R EGULATION OF C LIMATE C HANGE – INTERNATIONAL, F EDERAL, AND S TATE
L EVELS 6
ACTIONS TAKEN BY SARATOGA TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS
EMISSIONS 8
S ARATOGA’S G REENHOUSE G AS E MISSIONS 1 0
SARATOGA P ROFILE 10
C OMMUNITY E MISSIONS I NVENTORY 1 1
C ONSUMPTION-B ASED I NVENTORY 1 3
C OMMUNITY E MISSION F ORECAST 1 4
C OMMUNITY E MISSIONS R EDUCTION T ARGETS 15
A CTIONS TO R EDUCE G REENHOUSE G AS EMISSIONS AND
A DAPT TO CLIMATE C HANGE 1 7
I NTRODUCTION 1 7
STATE ACTIONS 1 8
SUMMARY OF L OCAL G REENHOUSE GAS R EDUCTION STRATEGIES 20
L OW CARBON T RANSPORTATION 2 1
12
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan iii
R ENEWABLE E NERGY 2 4
E NERGY E FFICIENCY 2 6
W ASTE R EDUCTION 2 8
W ATER CONSERVATION 30
C ARBON S EQUESTRATION 3 2
A DAPTATION 3 3
C OMMUNITY E NGAGEMENT 3 4
I MPLEMENTATION AND M ONITORING 3 6
R EFERENCES 3 7
A PPENDICES
A: IMPLEMENTATION T ABLE A -1
B: GHG R EDUCTION C ALCULATIONS B -1
C: GHG E MISSIONS R EDUCTION T ARGETS C -1
13
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 1
INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE OF THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
The City of Saratoga understands that climate change is already impacting California and the world and will continue
to affect Saratoga’s residents and businesses for the foreseeable future, as well as other communities around the
world. The City also recognizes that local governments play a strong role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in their
municipal operations and communities and mitigating the future impacts of climate change.
The purpose of this Climate Action Plan (CAP) is to compile existing and potential actions that the City’s government
and the community can take to address climate change. It provides a brief background on what climate change is and
its potential impacts, but focuses on the efforts Saratoga can make to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and
mitigate, to the extent feasible at the local level, the impacts of climate change.
Through the actions outlined in this plan, such as increasing energy efficiency in buildings, electrifying buildings and
appliances, accelerating zero emission vehicle adoption, and using clean, renewable energy sources, the Saratoga
community can experience lower fuel and energy bills, improved air quality, reduced emissions, and an enhanced
quality of life. The City’s preparation of greenhouse gas emissions inventories and this Climate Action Plan are part of
an ongoing planning process that includes assessing, planning, mitigating, and adapting to climate change.
Specifically, this plan does the following:
• Summarizes various climate-related regulations at the international, federal, and state levels.
• Incorporates the City’s 2017 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, which identifies sources of greenhouse
gas emissions generated by the community.
• Estimates how these emissions may change over time under a business-as-usual forecast that utilizes
General Plan build-out estimates and regional forecasts.
• Establishes greenhouse gas reduction targets that reflect statewide goals.
• Provides energy use, transportation, waste, water, and natural system strategies and specific actions that
substantial evidence demonstrates, if fully implemented, will collectively achieve the targeted emissions level
for the year 2030.
• Incorporates strategies to adapt to climate change.
• Includes an implementation schedule and performance measures to enable the City to annually track its
progress and set priorities.
RELATIONSHIP TO THE GENERAL PLAN
The City of Saratoga’s General Plan contains policies and programs that promote community sustainability and
effective management of renewable and non-renewable natural resources through energy conservation and
renewable energy generation (LU 6.5), solid waste management and recycling (LU 6.3 and 6.b), water conservation
(OSC 10.1, 10.a and 10.b), preservation and replacement of trees (OSC 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 and 12.4 and LU 6.4 and 6.c),
reduction of vehicle trips (OSC.15.b and LU 15.2), and improvement of the bicycle and pedestrian network (multiple
policies and programs in the Circulation Element).
14
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 2
CLIMATE CHANGE BACKGROUND
A balance of naturally occurring gases dispersed in the atmosphere determines the Earth’s climate by trapping
infrared radiation (heat), a phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect (Figure 1). Overwhelming evidence
documents that human activities are increasing the concentration of these gases (known as “greenhouse gases” or
GHGs) in the atmosphere, causing a rise in global average surface temperature and consequent global climate
change. The greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and hydrofluorocarbons (Table 1)1.
Each one has a different degree of impact on climate change. To facilitate comparison across different emission
sources with mixed and varied compositions of several GHGs, the term “carbon dioxide equivalent” or CO2e is used.
One metric ton of CO2e may consist of any combination of GHGs and has the equivalent Global Warming Potential
(GWP) as one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO2). According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2019
“Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2018,” the majority of GHG emissions comes from
fossil fuel combustion, which in turn is used for electricity, transportation, industry, heating, etc.
Collectively, these gases intensify the natural greenhouse effect, causing global average surface temperatures to
rise, which affects local and global climate patterns. These changes in climate are forecasted to manifest themselves
in ways that will impact Saratoga and California.
FIGURE 1: THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT
Source: California Waterboard/Marion Koshland Science Museum of The National Academy Of Sciences
1 Water vapor is the most dominant greenhouse gas, but it is not measured as a part of a greenhouse gas inventory
and for that reason is not included in this discussion.
15
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 3
TABLE 1: GREENHOUSE GASES
Gas Chemical
Formula Emission Source Global Warming
Potential
Carbon Dioxide CO2 Combustion of natural gas, gasoline,
diesel, and other fuels 1
Methane
CH4
Combustion, anaerobic decomposition
of organic waste in landfills, wastewater,
and livestock
28
Nitrous Oxide N2O Combustion, wastewater treatment 265
Hydrofluorocarbons Various Leaked refrigerants, fire suppressants 12 to 11,700
Source: IPCC Fifth Assessment Report, 100-year values, 2014
THE ECOL OGICAL FOOTPRINT
Americans consume resources at a far greater rate than most industrialized nations, and the worldwide use of
resources is exceeding the earth’s capacity to renew them. One way to measure the use of natural resources against
the planet’s actual biocapacity and ability to renew those resources is the “ecological footprint.” It can be calculated
for individuals, regions, countries, or the entire earth and is expressed as the number of global acres (acres with
world average biological productivity) that it takes to support one person. As Figure 2 shows, the average American
uses 20 global acres per capita. Other western democracies, such as France, Germany, and Italy, have footprints of
approximately 11 to 12 global acres per person.
FIGURE 2: ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT COMPARISON
Source: Global Footprint Network National Footprint Accounts, 2019 Edition.
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Global Acres Per Person16
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 4
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN CALIFORNIA, THE BAY AREA, AND SARATOGA
The Earth’s climate is warming, mostly due to human activities such as changes in land cover and emissions of certain
pollutants. Greenhouse gases are the major human-induced drivers of climate change. These gases warm the Earth’s
surface by trapping heat in the atmosphere.
The evidence that the climate is warming is unequivocal. In 2019,
global surface temperatures were 0.98 °C (1.8 °F) higher relative to
the 1951-1980 average temperatures, and temperatures are now
about 2°F higher than pre-industrial times. The past five years have
been the warmest of the last 140 years, and every decade since the
1960s has been warmer than the last.2 Consistent with global
observations, the average annual temperature in most areas in
California is already 1°F higher than historical levels, and some areas
have seen average increases exceeding 2°F.3
California is already experiencing climate change impacts. Sea levels
along the coast of southern and central California have risen about 6
inches over the past century and even moderate tides and storms
are now producing extremely high sea levels.4 Since 1950, the area
burned by wildfire each year has been increasing, as warming
temperatures extend the fire season and low precipitation and
snowpack create conditions for extreme, high severity wildfires to
spread rapidly. Five of the state’s largest fires have occurred since
2006. The largest recorded wildfire was the winter 2017 Thomas Fire
– until the Mendocino Complex Fire surpassed it in 2018.5
As temperatures continue to rise, California faces serious climate
impacts, including:
• More intense and frequent heat waves
• More intense and frequent drought
• More severe and frequent wildfires
• More severe storms and extreme weather events
• Greater riverine flows
• Shrinking snowpack and less overall precipitation
• Accelerating sea level rise
• Ocean acidification, hypoxia, and warming
• Increase in vector-borne diseases and heat-related deaths and illnesses
2 National Aeronautics and Space Administration, “NASA, NOAA Analyses Reveal 2019 Second Warmest Year on
Record,” January 15, 2020.
3 Louise Bedsworth, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher, Sonya Ziaja, “Statewide Summary Report,” in
California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, publication number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013, 2018, p. 22.
4 Bedsworth et al, p. 31.
5 California Air Resources Board, “Wildfire & Climate Change,” https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/wildfires-climate-change,
accessed 7-9-20.
R EPRESENTATIVE CONCENTRATION
P ATHWAYS (RCPS )
Emissions scenarios used in the
Climate Action Plan are the same as
those used by the Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change’s Fifth
Assessment Report and are called
Representative Concentration
Pathways, or RCPs. There are four
RCPs: 2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5. Each
represents a set of possible underlying
socioeconomic conditions, policy
options, and technological con-
siderations, spanning from a low-end
scenario that requires significant
emissions reductions resulting in zero
global emissions by 2080 (RCP 2.6) to a
high-end, “business-as-usual,” fossil-
fuel-intensive emissions scenario (RCP
8.5). The low-end scenario is most
closely aligned with California’s
ambitious greenhouse gas reduction
targets and the aspirational goals of
the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change 2015
Paris Agreement. Thus far, global
emissions continue to follow the
business-as-usual trajectory.
17
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 5
• Increase in harmful impacts to vegetation and wildlife, including algal blooms in marine and freshwater
environments, spread of disease-causing pathogens and insects in forests, and invasive agricultural pests.
California communities can understand how climate change will raise temperatures and exacerbate extreme heat
events, drought, wildfire, and coastal flooding in their area with resources provided by Cal-Adapt.org. The Cal-Adapt
tool shows projections for two possible climate futures, one in which greenhouse gas emissions peak around 2040
and then decline (RCP 4.5) and another in which emissions continue to rise strongly through 2050 and plateau around
2100 (RCP 8.5). Both futures are considered possible depending on how successful the world is at reducing emissions
and atmospheric carbon dioxide.
A VERAGE M AXIMUM T EMPERATURES
Overall temperatures are projected to rise substantially throughout this century. The historical (1951-1980) annual
maximum mean temperature for Saratoga is 69.1oF. Under the low emissions (RCP 4.5) scenario, the maximum mean
temperature in Saratoga is expected to rise about 4°F by 2100. Under the high emissions (RCP 8.5) scenario, the
maximum mean temperature is projected to rise 8°F to about 77°F by 2100.
E XTREME HEAT D AYS
As the climate changes, some of the more serious threats to public health will stem from more frequent and intense
extreme heat days and longer heat waves. Extreme heat events are likely to increase the risk of mortality and
morbidity due to heat-related illness, such as heat stroke and dehydration, and exacerbation of existing chronic
health conditions.
An extreme heat day is defined as a day in April through October where the maximum temperature exceeds the 98th
historical percentile of maximum temperatures based on daily temperature data between 1961-1990. In Saratoga,
the extreme heat threshold is 93.5°F.
Cal-Adapt projects a significant increase in the number of extreme heat days for Saratoga. Between 1990-2005, there
was an average of 6 days above 93.5°F. That average is projected to increase to 11 days by 2050 under the low
emissions scenario (RCP 4.5). By the end of the century, the average number of extreme heat days is expected to
increase to 13 days and could be as many as 32 days under the high emissions scenario (RCP 8.5).
18
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 6
REGULATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE – INTERNATIONAL, FEDERAL, AND STATE LEVELS
I NTERNATIONAL C LIMATE P OLICY
In 2015, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change adopted the Paris Agreement, the world’s
first global pact aimed at reducing GHG emissions. The agreement’s goals are to limit global temperature rise this
century to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit temperature
increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement has been signed by nearly every country in the world, 197
nations in all. The accord includes commitments from all major emitting countries to reduce their GHG emissions,
although national plans vary in scope and reduction target. Nonetheless, the emission reduction pledges are not
enough to meet the Agreement’s stated goals.
Under the accord, the United States had pledged to cut its GHG emissions 26 to 28% below 2005 levels by 2025 and
commit up to $3 billion in aid for poorer countries by 2020. U.S. initiatives to meet this goal included the Clean Power
Plan and tightening of automotive fuel efficiency standards. In 2017, the President announced that the United States
would withdraw from the Paris climate accord. Under the terms of the agreement, the United States cannot exit
until November 4, 2020.
FEDERAL CLIMATE P OLICY
Currently, there is no federal legislation mandating comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions reporting or reduction
in the United States. The U.S. Senate considered, but failed to pass, various cap-and-trade bills in 2009 and 2010.
Therefore, the U.S. has used its rulemaking authority under the Clean Air Act to begin to regulate greenhouse gas
emissions. In 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made an "endangerment finding" that GHGs
threaten the public health and welfare of the American people..
6 This finding provided the statutory prerequisite
for EPA regulation of GHG emissions from motor vehicles and led to several GHG regulations for stationary sources.
In May 2010, the EPA issued a “tailoring” rule that enables the agency to control GHG emissions from the nation’s
largest GHG sources, including power plants, refineries, cement production facilities, industrial manufacturers, and
solid waste landfills, when these facilities are newly constructed or substantially modified. The EPA reported that its
GHG permitting requirements would address 70% of the national GHG emissions from stationary sources 7. In 2013,
the EPA announced proposed Clean Air Act standards to cut carbon dioxide emissions from power plants.
In 2012, new rules mandated an average fuel economy of 54.5 miles per gallon for cars and light-duty trucks by the
2025 model year, up from the existing standard of 35.5 MPG in 2016. 8 The new standards were designed to apply
pressure on auto manufacturers to increase development of electric vehicles as well as improve the mileage of
conventional passenger cars by producing more efficient engines and lighter car bodies.
In 2013, a federal Climate Action Plan was released, which outlined steps the administration could take to reduce
GHG emissions. Actions included: reducing emissions from power plants; accelerating renewable energy production
on public lands; expanding and modernizing the electric grid; raising fuel economy standards for passenger vehicles;
and accelerating energy efficiency initiatives.
6 Final Rule, EPA, Endangerment and Cause or Contribute Findings for Greenhouse Gases Under the Clean Air Act, 74 Fed. Reg.
66495, December 7, 2009.
7 Final Rule: Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Title V Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule Fact Sheet, EPA.
8 “Obama Administration Finalizes Historic 54.5 MPG Fuel Efficiency Standards,” Office of the Press Secretary, the White House,
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/08/28/obama-administration-finalizes-historic-545-mpg-fuel-efficiency-
standard..
19
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 7
Since 2016, the 2012 rule that required automakers’ fleet to average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025 to about 40 miles
per gallon and California’s right to set its own more aggressive standards were both revoked. In recent years, the
federal government replaced the Clean Power Plan, which would have set strict limits on carbon emissions from coal
and natural gas power plants, with a new version that lets states set their own rules. In addition, federal agencies no
longer include GHG emission analysis in environmental reviews. Many of these federal actions are subject to ongoing
legal challenges.
STATE CLIMATE P OLICY
Since 2005, the State of California has responded to growing concerns over the effects of climate change by adopting
a comprehensive approach to addressing greenhouse gas emissions in the public and private sectors. In 2005,
Executive Order S-3-05 established long-term targets to reduce GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and 80% below
1990 levels by 2050. The 2020 GHG reduction target was subsequently codified with the passage of the Global
Warming Solutions Act of 2006, more commonly known as Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32). Senate Bill 32 (SB 32), passed in
2016, established a longer-term target to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. In 2015, Executive Order
B-30-15 reaffirmed California’s goal to reduce emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050, and 2018’s Executive Order
B-55-18 committed California to achieve carbon neutrality – the point at which the removal of carbon from the
atmosphere meets or exceeds emissions – by 2045.
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is responsible for monitoring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions set
forth in AB 32 and SB 32, and is, therefore, coordinating statewide efforts. CARB adopted its first Scoping Plan in
2008 which outlined the actions required for California to reach its 2020 emission target. CARB’s California’s 2017
Climate Change Scoping Plan lays out a strategy to achieve the 2030 target. The Scoping Plan encourages local
governments to adopt a reduction goal for municipal operations emissions and move toward establishing similar
goals for community emissions that parallel the State commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The State
encourages local governments to track GHG emissions and adopt a Climate Action Plan that identifies how the local
community will meet the reduction target. Saratoga has tracked community operations GHG emissions since 2005.
The State of California established the Six Pillars framework in 2015. These include (1) reducing today’s petroleum
use in cars and trucks by up to 50%; (2) increasing from one-third to 50% our electricity derived from renewable
sources; (3) doubling the energy efficiency savings achieved at existing buildings and making heating fuels cleaner;
(4) reducing the release of methane, black carbon, and other short-lived climate pollutants; (5) managing farm and
rangelands, forests, and wetlands so they can store carbon; and (6) periodically updating the State's climate
adaptation strategy, Safeguarding California. The actions contained in this Climate Action Plan are designed to
support and implement the Six Pillars and the goals of the 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan on a local level.
SB 375, passed by the State Assembly and Senate in August 2008, is another significant component of California’s
commitment to GHG reduction. The goal of SB 375 is to reduce emissions from cars and light trucks by promoting
compact mixed-use, commercial, and residential development. The first step outlined in SB 375 called for the State’s
18 metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) and the California Air Quality Board to establish a region’s GHG
reduction target for passenger vehicle and light duty truck emissions. Then, the MPO was required to develop a
sustainable communities strategy that demonstrates how the region will meet its GHG reduction target. Here in the
Bay Area, four regional government agencies – the Association of Bay Area Governments, the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District, the Bay Conservation and Development Commission, and the Metropolitan Transportation
Commission, worked together to create Plan Bay Area, the region’s sustainable communities strategy. Most recently
updated in 2017, the plan is projected to reduce regional per capita greenhouse gas emissions from passenger
vehicles and light duty trucks 16% by 2035.
20
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 8
In 2010, the California State Office of Planning and Research adopted revised CEQA Guidelines that allow
streamlining of project-level analysis of greenhouse gas emissions through compliance with a greenhouse gas
reduction plan contained in a general plan, long range development plan, or separate climate action plan. Plans must
meet the criteria set forth in section 15183.5 of the CEQA Guidelines, which include requirements for quantifying
existing and projected greenhouse gases; identifying a level of cumulative greenhouse gas emissions that would not
be considered significant; specifying measures and standards that would ensure achievement of this level; and
continued monitoring to track progress. This Climate Action Plan meets those criteria. If this Plan is incorporated in
the updated General Plan and evaluated in the General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report, then it may be
used in the cumulative impacts analysis of later projects. An environmental document that relies on a greenhouse
gas reduction plan for a cumulative impacts analysis must identify those requirements specified in the plan that
apply to the project, and, if those requirements are not otherwise binding and enforceable, incorporate those
requirements as mitigation measures applicable to the project.
ACTIONS TAKEN BY SARATOGA TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Although this is the City’s first Climate Action Plan, the City of Saratoga has already implemented a wide range of
measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
In 2016, the City joined eleven Santa Clara County communities to form Silicon Valley Clean Energy
(SVCE), a new Community Choice Energy agency. As a public agency, SVCE is chartered to source clean,
competitively priced electricity on behalf of residents and businesses in participating jurisdictions.
In 2017, the City began purchasing 100% renewable electricity from SVCE for all municipal facilities.
In 2012, the City installed 78 solar panels at the Corporation Yard that provide approximately 25 kilowatts
of electricity. The solar energy system fully powers the Corporation Yard and the remaining electricity is
directed to the Community Center. Also that year, the City installed a solar PV system at the Library that
produces over 91,00 kWh of electricity annually.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The City has replaced fluorescent lighting with light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures in its buildings.
The City has converted all its traffic signals and approximately 45% of its streetlights to LED fixtures. LED
lighting uses about half of the electricity of conventional lighting.
In 2014, the City installed a cool roof at the Joan Pisani Community Center, which reflects the sun’s energy
back to the sky instead of allowing it to enter the building as heat. The cool roof reduced the cost of air
conditioning by 20% to 30%. The City has also installed cool roofs on the theater and City Hall buildings.
In 2019, the City adopted a green building reach code that requires all new buildings to use electric heat
pump technology for their space and water heating. Natural gas is permitted as a fuel source for clothes
drying, food cooking, and fireplaces, but these appliance connections must be “electric-ready.” The City
also requires new commercial buildings to exceed Title 24 energy efficiency requirements by 15%.
LOW CARBON TRANSPORTATION
Completed pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and safety improvements to encourage residents,
employees, and visitors to walk or bike rather than drive to their destinations.
21
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 9
Installed electric vehicle changing stations at City Hall, downtown, and the library.
Adopted an ordinance that requires new one and two-family homes and townhouses with attached garages
to install two EV charger outlets, with one outlet located on the exterior of the building.
WASTE REDUCTION
Implemented green purchasing policies for government operations, including preferences for
environmentally friendly janitorial supplies, products made from recycled materials, and durable or
reusable products. The City also has an extensive recycling program.
Executed a Solid Waste Hauling Franchise Agreement with provisions for recycling and green waste
programs.
WATER CONSERVATION
Replaced turf areas in Saratoga parks with native, drought tolerant plants to save on water and
maintenance costs.
Installed smart irrigation controls at City parks and medians to control watering levels based on weather
and moisture content in the air.
CARBON SEQUESTRATION
In 2016, the City challenged residents to plant 2,020 trees by the year 2020 after Saratoga lost a significant
number of trees due to the drought. To reach this goal, the City partnered with Our City Forest to offer
residents discounted trees. The City and community exceeded this goal by May 2019.
CLIMATE ACTION
The City is a member of Joint Venture Silicon Valley-Public Sector Climate Action Task Force. Under its action
plan, the task force seeks to conduct inventories of greenhouse gas emissions; develop a vision for the
region and set goals; identify and analyze specific opportunities to reduce emissions; form procurement
pools to obtain the best prices on new technologies; identify and evaluate financing options; pilot solutions
and share experiences; and measure progress toward its goals.
22
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 10
SARATOGA’S GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
SARATOGA PROFILE
Located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the City of Saratoga runs along the western edge of Santa Clara
County. Saratoga has a land area of approximately 12.8 square miles. The City enjoys a temperate climate, with cool,
wet, and almost frostless winters and dry, sunny summers. According to California Department of Finance estimates,
the population of Saratoga in 2017 was 31,364 and there were 11,226 housing units. The housing stock is relatively
older, with approximately 80% of homes built before 1980, providing excellent opportunities to upgrade homes to
include more energy-efficient features (American Community Survey, 2018). The local climate means that electricity
consumption spikes during the summer to cool buildings, while natural gas consumption rises in the winter months
and fluctuates according to average low temperatures during the rainy season. Water use rises during the summer,
and outdoor water use is largely dependent upon local rainfall patterns and weather conditions.
Saratoga is a local employment center providing about 8,720 jobs in 2017 (Plan Bay Area Projections 2040). Most
people who work in Saratoga commute from other Santa Clara cities and towns (65%), while about 12% come from
other counties (Census Transportation Planning Products, 2012-2016).
The City has public and private schools for grades K-12, a community college, a post office, a library, two fire stations,
and a City Hall. The commercial sector of the built environment, which includes retail and office buildings as well as
public and government facilities, uses about 31% of all electricity and 12% of natural gas consumed in Saratoga. As
such, the commercial sector has a significant role to play in reducing GHG emissions in the community.
Saratoga is served by transit service provided by Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. In 2017, five local bus
routes connected Saratoga residents, workers, and students to the Santa Clara Caltrain station and transit centers
in Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and Eastridge. An estimated 1% of Saratoga residents commute to work by public
transportation. Prior to the novel coronavirus pandemic, about 79% of employed residents drive to work alone and
8% carpool (American Community Survey, 2018).
The City’s climate, compact size, and mostly flat topography are conducive to walking and bicycling, and the City’s
network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities and amenities provides safe and convenient routes. Nonetheless, while
approximately 13% of employed Saratoga residents work in the City and not in their homes, only 2% walk or bike to
work. Encouraging more residents to walk and bike to destinations within the City will help to reduce transportation
emissions.
Finally, Saratoga residents are both wealthier and more educated than residents in most California communities.
With a median household income more than double that of the average California household ($176,641 vs. $71,228)
and a great majority of well-educated residents (78% have a bachelor’s degree or higher), Saratoga residents are
well positioned to lead the way in adopting new technologies. Public information campaigns, incentives, and
regulatory mechanisms to accelerate solar and battery storage installation, electric vehicle adoption, and
electrification of buildings and appliances are strategies that can be used to reduce GHG emissions in the community.
23
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 11
COMMUNITY EMISSIONS INVENTORY
The first step toward developing a climate action plan is to identify sources of emissions and establish baseline levels.
In 2020, the City prepared a Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory for community operations emissions for the years
2005 through 2017. The inventory quantifies greenhouse gas emissions from a wide variety of sources, from the
energy used to power, heat, and cool buildings, to the fuel used to move vehicles and power off-road equipment, to
the decomposition of solid waste and treatment of wastewater. Emissions are quantified according to
methodologies established by the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas
Emissions (v. 1.2). The report provides a detailed understanding of where the highest emissions are coming from,
and, therefore, where the greatest opportunities for emissions reductions lie. The inventory also establishes a
baseline emission inventory against which to measure future progress.
Community emissions are quantified according to these seven sectors:
• The Residential sector represents emissions generated from the use of electricity, natural gas, and propane
in Saratoga homes.
• The Commercial sector represents emissions generated from the use of electricity and natural gas in
commercial, industrial, and governmental buildings and facilities.
• The Transportation sector includes tailpipe emissions from passenger vehicle trips originating and/or
ending in Saratoga, a share of tailpipe emissions generated by medium and heavy-duty vehicles travelling
on Santa Clara County roads, and emissions from transit vehicles operating within the city limits. Electricity
used to power electric vehicles is embedded in electricity consumption reported in the Residential and
Commercial sectors.
• The Waste sector represents fugitive methane emissions that are generated over time as organic material
decomposes in the landfill. Although most methane is captured or flared off at the landfill, approximately
25% escapes into the atmosphere.
• The Off-Road sector represents emissions from the combustion of gasoline, diesel, and other fuels from
the operation of off-road vehicles and equipment used for light commercial, construction, recreation, and
landscape maintenance.
• The Water sector represents emissions from energy used to pump, convey, treat, and distribute potable
water from the water source to Saratoga.
• The Wastewater sector represents stationary, process, and fugitive greenhouse gases that are created
during the treatment of wastewater generated by the community and emissions created from energy used
to process wastewater. It also includes fugitive emissions from septic systems present within Saratoga’s city
limits.
Community greenhouse gas emissions totaled 179,893 metric tons in 2008 and 119,974 metric tons in 2017, falling
33%, or 59,919 metric tons CO2e in that period.9 As shown in Table 2, reductions occurred in all inventoried sectors
except the Waste sector. The largest decline occurred in the Residential sector, due to a reduction in electricity and
natural gas consumption and an improvement in the carbon intensity of electricity. Emissions declined 45% in the
Residential sector and 35,000 metric tons between 2008 and 2017.
9 Although the City’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory quantifies emission levels back to 2005, the CAP uses a 2008 baseline from
which to establish reduction targets as recommended in the California Air Resources Board’s Climate Change Scoping Plan
(2008 and 2017). See page 15 of this plan for more information.
24
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 12
TABLE 2: COMMUNITY EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2008 TO 2017
Year Residential Commercial Transportation Waste Off-Road Water Wastewater Total
%
Change
from
2008
2008 78,162 22,512 66,612 5,669 4,607 1,474 856 179,893
2009 74,757 21,425 66,342 4,841 4,031 1,265 841 173,501 -4%
2010 67,196 18,633 64,352 4,484 4,486 916 794 160,861 -11%
2011 66,084 16,825 63,226 4,492 4,381 818 779 156,605 -13%
2012 64,033 17,382 61,600 4,574 4,458 945 797 153,790 -15%
2013 64,538 17,240 61,042 4,520 4,631 950 793 153,713 -15%
2014 53,687 15,747 60,756 4,514 4,658 851 795 141,008 -22%
2015 53,493 15,248 58,591 4,381 4,977 633 785 138,108 -23%
2016 48,435 13,240 57,530 4,363 4,907 440 744 129,660 -28%
2017 43,162 9,597 56,847 4,287 5,018 338 724 119,974 -33%
Change from 2008 -35,000 -12,915 -9,764 -1,382 410 -1,136 -132 -59,919
% Change from 2008 -45% -57% -15% -24% 9% -77% -15% -33%
Figure 3 compares sector emissions between 2008 and 2017. Emissions from the Transportation sector have always
been responsible for the greatest percentage of greenhouse gas emissions, but that share has grown over the years
as energy use has declined and electricity has become cleaner. PG&E has been steadily increasing the amount of
renewable energy in its electricity mix, which was 67% less carbon intensive in 2017 than it was in 2008. Silicon Valley
Clean Energy, which began providing electricity to Saratoga customers in April 2017, provides its customers with
electricity that is generated from 100% greenhouse-free sources. In 2017, about 60% of the electricity consumed in
Saratoga was sourced by Silicon Valley Clean Energy.
25
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 13
FIGURE 3: EMISSIONS BY SECTOR, 2008 AND 2017
CONSUMPTION-BASED INVENTORY
In 2016, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) and U.C. Berkeley developed consumption-based
inventories for Bay Area communities to better understand how purchasing habits contribute to global climate
change. A consumption-based inventory includes emission sources that don’t get counted in the typical “activity-
based” GHG inventory, as well as other items that are difficult to quantify like airplane travel and upstream emissions
from the production, transport, and distribution of food and household goods. Figure 4 shows the results of the
consumption-based inventory for Saratoga households. According to this inventory, the average Saratoga household
generates 66.2 MTCO2e per year. As a comparison, the City’s community-wide emissions of 119,974 MTCO2e works
out to about 11.1 MTCO2e per household. For more information on the consumption-based inventories, visit
https://coolclimate.org/inventory.
Although the consumption-based inventory is informative, it is not updated regularly and therefore does not provide
a useful way to track changes in emissions levels over time. Saratoga’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory instead focuses
on emission sources that the City has some control over and that can be reliably quantified using established
protocols and tracked annually in order to inform decision-making and measure progress.
Residential
36%
Transportation
48%
Waste
4%
Water &
Wastewater
<1%
Off-Road
4%
Commercial
8%
Residential
43%
Transportation
37%
Waste
3%
Water &
Wastewater
<1%
Off-Road
3%
Commercial
13%
2008 2017
26
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 14
FIGURE 4: AVERAGE SARATOGA HOUSEHOLD CARBON FOOTPRINT
Source: CoolClimate Network
COMMUNITY EMISSIONS FORECAST
The Climate Action Plan includes a business-as-usual (BAU) forecast in which emissions are projected in the absence
of policies or actions that would occur beyond the base year (2017) to reduce emissions. The forecasts are derived
by “growing” 2017 emissions by forecasted changes in population, number of households, and jobs. Transportation
emissions are projected utilizing data provided by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), which
incorporate the vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reductions expected from the implementation of Plan Bay Area 2040
and the Regional Transportation Plan adopted in 2017. As shown in Table 3, emissions are expected to rise about
6.6% by 2030 and 8.7% by 2040, assuming full build-out. Although the MTC has not made official VMT projections
for 2050, continuing the trendline suggests community emissions would reach approximately 130,860 MTCO2e by
2050 under the BAU forecast, an increase of 9.1% over 2017 levels.
TABLE 3: SARATOGA COMMUNITY EMISSIONS FORECAST
2008
Emissions
2017
Emissions
2030 BAU
Emissions
2040 BAU
Emissions
2050 BAU
Emissions
179,893 119,974 127,885 130,462 130,860
Values are expressed in MTCO2e
27
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 15
COMMUNITY EMISSIONS REDUCTION TARGETS
The State of California has adopted goals to reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions. Passed in 2006, the
California Global Warming Solutions Act (Assembly Bill 32) established the State’s first target to reduce statewide
emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Because activity data is generally not available to determine 1990 emissions levels
for local governments, the California Air Resources Board recommended local governments pursue a target,
comparable to the statewide target, to reduce emissions 15% below “current” emissions in its Climate Change
Scoping Plan, which was published in 2008. The State subsequently established additional goals for future
reductions. Senate Bill 32, passed in 2016, establishes a target to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.
Executive Order B-30-15 reaffirmed California’s goal to reduce emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.
The California Air Resources Board’s 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan lays out a strategy to achieve the 2030 target
and recommends statewide targets of no more than 6 MTCO2e per capita by 2030 and no more than 2 MTCO2e per
capita by 2050. 10 However, the statewide target is based on emissions from all inventory sectors and should be
adjusted to reflect local emissions sectors. When adjusted to include only those sectors and emission sources that
are included in Saratoga’s GHG community inventory, the adjusted local target is no more than 4.1 MTCO2e per
person by 2030 and approximately 1.4 MTCO2e per person by 2050. Appendix C details how the adjusted local target
was derived.
This Climate Action Plan establishes targets similar to the State’s goals to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 levels
by 2030 and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. In Saratoga, that means emissions would need to drop to 91,745
MTCO2e by 2030 and 30,582 MTCO2e by 2050. The community emissions trend, forecast, and reduction targets are
shown in Figure 5. The Plan lays out measures that will exceed the 2030 target and put the City on a trajectory to
meet the 2050 goal. The trajectory line in Figure 5 assumes the following strategies are implemented by 2050:
• GHG-free electricity
• Electrification of all passenger vehicles
• Electrification of all transit buses
• Continued fuel efficiency improvements in the commercial vehicle fleet and some electrification of medium
and heavy-duty trucks
• Elimination of all organic waste from the landfill
• Continued reductions in natural gas consumption in residential and commercial buildings
• Electrification of all lawn and garden equipment
In September 2018, Governor Brown issued Executive Order (EO) B-55-18, which established a new statewide goal
to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. The Executive Order defines carbon neutrality as “the point at which the
removal of carbon pollution from the atmosphere meets or exceed emissions” and states that carbon neutrality will
require both GHG reductions consistent with existing statewide targets and carbon sequestration in forests, soils,
and other natural landscapes. EO B-55-18 directs the California Air Resources Board to update future Scoping Plans
to identify sequestration targets and recommend measures to achieve the new goal.
10 California Air Resources Board, “2017 Scoping Plan,” p. 99.
28
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 16
FIGURE 5: COMMUNITY EMISSIONS TREND, FORECAST, AND TARGETS
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
160,000
180,000
200,000
Annual GHG Emissions (MTCO2e)Year
ACTUAL EMISSIONS
BUSINESS-AS-USUAL SCENARIO
2030 Target
40% below 1990 levels 2050 Target
80% below 1990 levels
TRAJECTORY LINE
29
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 17
ACTIONS TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND
ADAPT TO CLIMATE CHANGE
INTRODUCTION
The Climate Action Plan includes a variety of regulatory, incentive-based, and market-based strategies that are
expected to reduce emissions from both existing and new development in Saratoga. Several of the strategies build
on existing programs while others provide new opportunities to address climate change. State actions will have a
substantial impact on future emissions. Local strategies will supplement these State actions and achieve additional
GHG emissions reductions. Successful implementation will rely on the combined participation of City staff and
Saratoga residents, businesses, and community leaders.
The following sections identify the State and local strategies included in the Climate Action Plan to reduce community
emissions. Emissions reductions are estimated for individual actions when quantifiable. Combined, these indicate
the City will reduce emissions 42% below 1990 emissions in 2030, which exceeds the State’s 2030 goal. As shown in
Figure 6, State and local actions each represent about 50% of the reduction expected through implementation of
the Climate Action Plan.
FIGURE 6: CUMULATIVE IMPACT OF REDUCTION STRATEGIES
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
2017 2020 2025 2030MTCO2eBUSINESS-AS-USUAL SCENARIO
2030 GOAL
State
Actions
Local
Actions
30
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 18
STATE ACTIONS
The Climate Action Plan incorporates State reduction strategies that have been approved, programmed, and/or
adopted and will reduce local community emissions from 2017 levels. These programs require no additional local
actions, although local actions may work to support these programs, as in the case of the State Action “Organic
Waste Reduction”. State actions are quantified first and deducted from projected community emissions to provide
a better picture of what still needs to be reduced at the local level to get to the overall reduction target. State actions
and emissions reductions are shown in Table 4 and detailed in Appendix B.
L IGHT AND HEAVY-D UTY FLEET R EGULATIONS
Assembly Bill 1493, signed into law in 2002, requires carmakers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new
passenger cars and light trucks beginning in 2009 through increased fuel efficiency standards. The California Air
Resources Board (CARB) adopted regulations in September 2009 that reduce greenhouse gas emissions in new
passenger cars, pickup trucks, and sport utility vehicles for model years 2012-2016. The Advanced Clean Cars rule
was expected to further reduce GHG emissions from automobiles and light-duty trucks for 2017-2025 vehicle models
years. CARB Tractor-Trailer Greenhouse Gas Regulations accelerated the use of low rolling resistance tires and
aerodynamic fairing to reduce GHG emissions in the heavy-duty truck fleet. Finally, the Heavy Duty GHG Emissions
Standards (Phase One) established GHG and fuel efficiency standards for medium-duty and heavy-duty engines and
vehicles for 2014-2018 model years. These regulations have been incorporated into the California Air Resources
Board’s (CARB) emissions model, EMFAC2017, which is used to calculate emissions from on-road sources for
California counties.
In June 2020, CARB issued off-model adjustments to EMFAC2017 emission factors to account for the SAFE Vehicles
Rules and actions adopted by the U.S. EPA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in late
2019 and early 2020.11 In September 2019, the U.S. EPA and the NHTSA issued the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient
(SAFE) Vehicles Rule Part One: One National Program (SAFE Part One) that revoked California’s authority to set its
own greenhouse gas emissions standards and zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates in California. In April 2020, the
federal agencies issued the SAFE Vehicles Rule for Model Years 2021-2026 Passenger Cars and Light Trucks (Final
SAFE Rule) that relaxed federal GHG emissions and fuel economy standards. CARB staff adjusted projected emissions
factors by lowering the improvement in fuel economy expected for passenger cars and light trucks for the 2021 to
2026 model years. CARB also froze new ZEV sales at model year 2020 levels. Transportation emissions quantified in
this CAP reflect the off-model adjustment.
R ENEWABLE P ORTFOLIO S TANDARD (RPS)
Established in 2002 in Senate Bill 1078, the Renewable Portfolio Standard program requires electricity providers to
increase the portion of energy that comes from eligible renewable sources, including solar, wind, small hydroelectric,
geothermal, biomass, and biowaste, to 20% by 2010 and to 33% by 2020. Senate Bill 350, passed in 2015, increased
the renewable requirement to 50% by the end of 2030. Senate Bill 100, passed in September 2018, accelerated the
RPS standard to 60% by 2030 and zero-carbon by 2045. In 2019, PG&E’s electric power generation mix contained
29% eligible renewable energy and was 100% GHG-free. Silicon Valley Clean Energy’s “GreenStart” electricity
11 California Air Resources Board, “EMFAC Off-Model Adjustment Factors for Carbon Dioxide Emissions to Account
for the SAFE Vehicles Rule Part One and the Final Safe Rule,” June 26, 2020,
https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/msei/emfac_off_model_co2_adjustment_factors_06262020-
final.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
31
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 19
contained 50% eligible renewable energy and was 100% GHG-free. SVCE’s “GreenPrime” electricity contained 100%
eligible renewable energy and was GHG-free.
T ITLE 24
The California Energy Commission (CEC) promotes energy efficiency and conservation by setting the State’s building
energy efficiency standards. Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations covers the structural, electrical,
mechanical, and plumbing system of every building constructed or altered after 1978. The building energy efficiency
standards are updated on an approximate three-year cycle, and each cycle imposes increasingly higher demands on
energy efficiency and conservation. Emissions reductions are based on lower energy budgets mandated by existing
Title 24 energy efficiency standards, as well as mandatory solar installation for residential buildings beginning with
the 2019 code.
L IGHTING E FFICIENCY AND T OXIC R EDUCTION A CT
AB 1109, the Lighting Efficiency and Toxic Reduction Act, tasked the California Energy Commission (CEC) with
reducing lighting energy usage in indoor residences by no less than 50% from 2007 levels by 2018, as well as required
a 25% reduction in indoor and outdoor commercial buildings by the same date. To achieve these efficiency levels,
the CEC applied its existing appliance efficiency standards to include lighting products, as well as required minimum
lumen/watt standards for different categories of lighting products. The bill also expanded incentives for energy
efficient lighting.
O RGANIC W ASTE R EDUCTION
Passed in 2016, SB 1383 establishes targets to achieve a 50% reduction in statewide organic waste disposal from
the 2014 level by 2020 and a 75% reduction by 2025. The law grants CalRecycle regulatory authority to achieve the
organic waste disposal reduction targets and establishes an additional target that not less than 20% of currently
disposed edible food is recovered for human consumption by 2025. In 2022, CalRecycle may begin to issue penalties
for non-compliance. On January 1, 2024, the regulations may require local jurisdictions to impose penalties for non-
compliance on regulated entities subject to their authority.
The State has enacted additional laws to reduce organic waste disposal and increase recycling. AB 1826, passed in
2014, requires businesses to recycle their organic waste, depending on the amount of waste they generate per week.
In this context, organic waste means food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood
waste, and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste. The law phases in mandatory recycling of
commercial organics over time. As of January 2019, businesses that generate 4 or more cubic yards of commercial
solid waste per week are required to arrange for organic waste recycling services. The State law is intended to reduce
statewide disposal of organic waste 50% from 2014 levels by 2020. If that target is not met, the law will be extended
to cover businesses that generate 2 cubic yards or more of commercial solid waste.
In addition, the State's Green Building Code (CALGreen) requires residential and non-residential development
projects to recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65% of the nonhazardous construction and demolition
waste.
Table 4 shows the total emissions reductions in Saratoga projected by 2030 through implementation of State actions.
32
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 20
TABLE 4: EMISSIONS REDUCTIONS FROM STATE ACTIONS
State Action 2030 Emissions
Reductions
MTCO2e
Light and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Regulations 13,639
Renewable Portfolio Standard 1,529
Title 24 340
Lighting Efficiency 73
Organic Waste Reduction 3,853
Total 19,433
SUMMARY OF LOCAL GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REDUCTION STRATEGIES
The local mitigation strategies presented in the following sections, and as summarized in Table 5 below, achieve
greenhouse gas emissions reductions in the community of approximately 19,400 MTCO2e in 2030.
TABLE 5: LOCAL EMISSIONS REDUCTION STRATEGIES
Strategy
GHG Reductions by 2030
(MTCO2e) Percent of Reductions
Low Carbon Transportation 8,129 42%
Renewable Energy 5,196 27%
Energy Efficiency 5,784 30%
Waste Reduction n/a -
Water Conservation 44 <1%
Carbon Sequestration 248 1%
Adaptation n/a -
Community Engagement n/a -
Implementation and Monitoring n/a -
Total 19,401 100%
These local strategies are detailed with specific actions in the following sections. Some actions are not associated
with greenhouse gas reductions because they are in support of other local and/or State actions, or because
information was not available to quantify the potential GHG reduction. Together, the projected reductions from
State and local actions total 38,834 MTCO2e by 2030. Community emissions are therefore projected to be 89,051
MTCO2e in 2030 with the full implementation of the CAP. This is 42% below 1990 levels and exceeds the statewide
reduction target by 2%.
33
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 21
LOW CARBON TRANSPORTATION
Almost half of Saratoga’s community emissions comes from transportation, and up until the recent commercial
success of electric vehicles, it has been hard to see how transportation emissions can be reduced. Sure,
improvements in fuel efficiency have driven emissions down – the passenger vehicle fleet in Santa Clara County is
about 15% more fuel efficient than it was ten years ago – but vehicle miles traveled by passenger cars have only
gone down about 2% over the same period. Surveys show that alternative transportation rates have hardly budged
over the years, despite improvements in the bicycle and pedestrian network
and public information campaigns to get people to carpool, bicycle, walk, and
take transit.
All of that is now changing with the viability of zero emission vehicles (ZEVs),
especially here in Saratoga where electricity is quite clean and expected to
get cleaner. ZEVs include all-battery as well as plug-in hybrid vehicles. Santa
Clara County is a leader in ZEV adoption rates, and ZEVs already comprise
about 3% of registered passenger vehicles in Santa Clara County. The City’s
plan is to increase that rate to 25% by 2030 by building out the EV charging
infrastructure and encouraging ZEV ownership through incentives, public
education, and development requirements. This is an aggressive target, but
one that complements the State’s goal to put 5 million ZEVs on the road by
2030. Improvements in battery and charging technology, expected cost
reductions, and automakers’ commitments to significantly expand ZEV
offerings point to an all-electric future. New cars are typically out of the reach
of lower-income household budgets, but programs that incentivize used EV
car purchases and installation of EV chargers in multi-family buildings can help
ensure the benefits of EV ownership are shared by all.
That said, Saratoga cannot rely on ZEVs alone to meet its transportation
emissions reduction goals; reducing congestion, enabling better biking and
walking opportunities, and incentivizing public transit all carry co-benefits and
can be enjoyed by all.
The City will take the following actions to reduce emissions from transportation sources.
TABLE 6: LOW CARBON TRANSPORTATION ACTIONS
ID Measure GHG Reduction by 2030
(MTCO2e)
Share of
Reductions
LCT-1 Zero Emission Vehicles 7,264 89%
LCT-2 Bicycling 328 4%
LCT-3 Walking 16 <1%
LCT-4 Employee Trip Reduction 36 <1%
LCT-5 Public Transit 245 3%
LCT-6 Safe Routes to School 188 2%
LCT-7 Traffic System Management and Vehicle Idling1 n/a -
What You Can Do
#1 Drive an all-electric or
plug-in hybrid vehicle.
#2 Bike, walk, or take transit
whenever possible.
#3 Reduce the number of
miles you drive by working
from home when possible
and consolidating vehicle
trips.
#3 Shut your car off when
waiting in line at the ATM or
school pick up/drop off lane.
#4 Better yet, encourage
your child to walk or bike to
school.
34
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 22
LCT-8 Zero and Low Emission City Vehicles 43 1%
LCT-9 Low Carbon Fuels 5 <1%
LCT-10 City Employee Commute 2 <1%
TOTAL 8,129 100%
1 Emissions reductions could not be calculated due to lack of data.
LOW CARBON TRANSPORTATION ACTIONS
LCT-1 Zero Emission Vehicles. Develop a Zero Emission Vehicle Plan that will result in 25% of passenger vehicles in
Saratoga to be zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), including plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric
vehicles, by 2030. Consider incorporating the following actions in the plan:
1. Work with SVCE to implement and update the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Joint Action Plan.
2. Adopt reach codes that require EV-ready infrastructure and charging station installation above State
baseline building requirements for new and remodeled residential, multi-family, and commercial projects.
3. Adopt permit streamlining practices to expedite the approval process for new EV infrastructure and
charging station installation.
4. Work with SVCE to identify multi-family sites and corridors appropriate for EV fast chargers.
5. Work with SVCE to promote available rebates and technical support for multi-family and workplace sites.
6. Provide free or low-cost charging for ZEVs at City parking lots.
7. Provide wayfinding signage to public EV chargers.
8. Require new and remodeled gas stations to provide EV fast chargers and hydrogen fueling stations.
9. Participate in programs to promote EV adoption, including "Drive an EV" events and other media and
outreach campaigns.
10. Encourage or require, as practicable, ride hailing and delivery service companies to utilize zero emission
vehicles.
11. Promote use of electric bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles.
LCT-2 Bicycling. Encourage bicycling as an alternative to vehicular travel. Establish and maintain a system of bicycle
facilities that are consistent with the City's General Plan and Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
LCT-3 Walking. Encourage walking as an alternative to vehicular travel. Establish and maintain a system of pedestrian
facilities that are consistent with the City's General Plan and Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
LCT-4 Employee Trip Reduction. Reduce vehicle miles traveled commuting to work through the following actions:
1. Work with Santa Clara VTA and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to promote
transportation demand programs to local employers, such as rideshare matching programs, vanpool
incentive programs, emergency ride home programs, telecommuting, transit use discounts and subsidies,
showers and changing facilities, bicycle racks and lockers, and other incentives to use transportation other
than single occupant vehicles.
2. Embark on an outreach and educational campaign to encourage employees to reduce vehicle trips.
LCT-5 Public Transit. Support and promote public transit by taking the following actions:
1. Work with Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to maximize ridership through expansion
and/or improvement of transit routes, schedules, and stops.
35
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 23
2. Encourage VTA to use renewable diesel as a transition fuel and to purchase electric buses whenever
replacing existing buses.
LCT-6 Safe Routes to School. Support Safe Routes to School and strive to increase bicycling, walking, carpooling, and
taking public transit to school.
1. Promote school and student participation by encouraging schools to implement and/or expand Safe Routes
to School programs.
2. Identify issues associated with unsafe bicycle and pedestrian facilities between neighborhoods and schools,
apply for Safe Routes to School grants, and execute plans to improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
LCT-7 Traffic System Management and Vehicle Idling.
1. Implement signal synchronization to minimize wait times at traffic lights and to reduce congestion through
increased traffic flow.
2. Utilize intelligent traffic management systems to improve traffic flow.
3. Encourage drivers and autonomous vehicles to limit vehicle idling, particularly at schools during drop off
and pick up.
LCT-8 Zero and Low Emission City Vehicles.
1. Purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles for the City fleet whenever feasible, and when not, the most fuel-
efficient models available.
2. Promote City adoption and procurement of zero-emission vehicles and charging infrastructure to the public.
LCT-9 Low Carbon Fuels. Use low-carbon fuel such as renewable diesel as a transition fuel in the City's fleet and
encourage the City's service providers to do the same.
LCT-10 City Employee Commute. Provide City employees with incentives to use alternatives to single occupant auto
commuting, such as free electric vehicle charging, transit subsidies, bicycle facilities, ridesharing services, flexible
schedules, and telecommuting when practical.
36
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 24
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Energy that comes from renewable sources, including solar, wind, geothermal, and small hydroelectric, are the
cleanest and most-environmentally friendly energy sources. Here in Saratoga where there is an abundance of sunny
days, solar energy is a particularly good energy source. According to Project Sunroof, 94% of Saratoga buildings have
roofs that are solar-viable. These 10,300 roofs could generate over 327 million kWh per year, which is more than
double the total electricity usage in Saratoga in 2017. Solar system costs keep
falling, too, which make them an attractive option for home and commercial
building owners. The Climate Action Plan projects that Saratoga can get about
27% of our electricity from locally produced solar energy systems by 2030, up
from about 11% currently, just by maintaining the current growth rate.
When solar is not an option, due perhaps to a shady roof or a reluctant
landlord, residents and business owners can purchase 100% renewable
electricity from Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE) and PG&E. SVCE and PG&E
electricity have a high percentage of renewable content, which means it’s
some of the cleanest electricity in the country. SVCE’s GreenStart electricity
is 100% greenhouse gas free, while SVCE’s GreenPrime is also 100% GHG-free
and comes from 100% renewable sources, primarily solar and wind farms in
California and on the western grid. The City has been purchasing GreenPrime
electricity for governmental operations since it first became available in
Saratoga in April 2017.
Since Saratoga’s electricity is so clean, it is a great idea to swap out appliances
and heating and cooling systems that use natural gas for ones that use
electricity. The City’s green building ordinance requires installation of electric
heat pump technology for space and water heating in new homes and
commercial buildings and requires natural gas appliances like stoves, clothes
dryers, and fireplaces, if installed, to be electric-ready. Eventually, the
community will need to replace the majority of natural gas appliance and
equipment in existing buildings if it is going to achieve its long-term goals.
Battery prices are falling and will soon be a cost-effective option, too. Solar energy combined with battery storage
is a great option for people concerned about losing electric service during a Public Safety Power Shutoff event or
storms and is certainly a cleaner choice than generators running on natural gas or fuel. Fortunately, ongoing research
and development of energy storage systems are creating new business opportunities and making an all-electric,
100% renewable future possible.
The City will take the following actions to reduce emissions from energy use.
What You Can Do
#1 Switch to SVCE
GreenPrime or PG&E Solar
Choice 100% renewable
electricity.
#2 Install a solar energy
system on your home or
business and consider
battery storage.
#3 Replace appliances that
use natural gas for ones that
use electricity.
#4 Investigate electric hot
water heaters and heat
pumps so you can swap out
heaters and furnaces that
use natural gas when it’s
time to replace them.
37
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 25
TABLE 7: RENEWABLE ENERGY ACTIONS
ID Measure GHG Reduction by 2030
(MTCO2e)
Share of
Reductions
RE-1 GHG-Free Electricity 3,651 70%
RE-2 Renewable Energy Generation 1,528 29%
RE-3 Building and Appliance Electrification1 n/a -
RE-4 Innovative Technologies2 n/a -
RE-5 Municipal 100% Renewable Electricity 17 <1%
TOTAL 5,196 100%
1 See Action EE-1 in the Energy Efficiency section for estimated emissions reduction from the City’s green building
ordinance.
2 This is a supportive action and therefore no additional GHG reduction is taken.
R ENEWABLE E NERGY ACTIONS
RE-1 GHG-Free Electricity. Support Silicon Valley Clean Energy in the continued delivery of 100% greenhouse gas
free electricity and its 100% renewable electricity option (which is also 100% GHG-free).
RE-2 Renewable Energy Generation and Storage. Accelerate installation of solar and other renewable energy
installations and energy storage systems at residential and commercial buildings and sites and community facilities
through the following provisions:
1. Provide solar permit streamlining and reduce or eliminate fees, as feasible.
2. Amend building codes, development codes, design guidelines, and zoning ordinances, as
necessary, to facilitate small (up to 10 kW DC), medium (10 to 250 kW DC), and large-scale (over
250 kW DC) solar power installations.
3. Encourage installation of solar panels on rooftops and over parking areas on commercial projects,
schools, and residential developments.
4. Identify and promote incentives and financing and loan programs for residential and non-
residential solar projects.
5. Encourage installation of battery storage in conjunction with renewable energy generation
projects.
RE-3 Building and Appliance Electrification. Promote electrification of building systems and appliances that
currently use natural gas, including heating systems, hot water heaters, stoves, and clothes dryers. See also Action
EE-1 in the Energy Efficiency section.
RE-4 Innovative Technologies. Investigate and pursue or adopt policies to allow the commercial and residential
sectors to pursue innovative technologies such as microgrids (a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy
resources that can disconnect from the grid and operate independently in “island mode”), battery storage, and
demand-response programs that will improve the electric grid’s resiliency and help to balance demand and
renewable energy production.
RE-5 Municipal 100% Renewable Electricity. Continue to purchase Silicon Valley Clean Energy 100% GHG-free and
renewable energy for all facilities.
38
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 26
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Increasing the efficiency of buildings is often the most cost-effective approach for reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. Energy efficiency upgrades, such as adding insulation and sealing leaks in heating ducts, have
demonstrated energy savings of up to 20%, while more aggressive “whole house” retrofits can result in even
greater energy savings. Many “low-hanging fruit” improvements can be made inexpensively and without
remodeling yet can be extremely cost-efficient, such as swapping out incandescent bulbs to LED bulbs, sealing
air leaks, and installing a programmable thermostat. Energy Star-certified appliances and office equipment, high-
efficiency heating and air conditioning systems, and high-efficiency
windows not only save energy but reduce operating costs in the long run.
Rebates, financing, and tax incentives are often available for residents and
businesses to help defray the cost of upgrades.
The Saratoga community has been doing a good job reducing energy use.
Since 2005, electricity consumption has declined an average of 0.8% per
year and natural gas consumption has declined about 1.1% each year. The
City will work with the utilities and other partners to promote energy
efficiency and electrification programs to reduce energy use by at least
0.5% each year.
New construction techniques and building materials, known collectively as
“green building,” can significantly reduce the use of resources and energy
in homes and commercial buildings. Green construction methods can be
integrated into buildings at any stage, from design and construction to
renovation and deconstruction. The State of California requires green building
and energy-efficiency through the Title 24 building codes. The State updates
these codes approximately every three years, with increasing energy
efficiency requirements since 2001. The State’s energy efficiency goals are to
have all new residential construction to be zero net electricity by 2020 and all
new residential and commercial construction to be zero net energy by 2030.
Local governments can accelerate this target by adopting energy efficiency
standards for new construction and remodels that exceed existing State
mandates, or by providing incentives, technical assistance, and streamlined
permit processes to enable quicker adoption.
The City of Saratoga adopted a reach code in December 2019 that requires all new residential and non-residential
buildings to use electric heat pump technology for their space and water heating. Natural gas is permitted as a fuel
source for clothes drying, food cooking, and fireplaces. However, buildings using natural gas appliances must also be
“electric-ready,” meaning that the location of a natural gas appliance can support an electric appliance in the future.
The City also requires new commercial buildings to exceed Title 24 energy efficiency requirements by 15%.
The City has taken several actions to reduce energy consumption in governmental operations, including converting
streetlights to LED, upgrading inefficient lighting in buildings, and installing cool roofs on the Community Center,
What You Can Do
#1 Replace indoor and
outdoor lights with LED bulbs
and turn them off when not
in use.
#2 Have an energy
assessment done for your
home or business.
#3 Upgrade insulation, seal
leaks, and install a
programmable thermostat.
#4 Purchase Energy Star
appliances and equipment.
#5 Unplug electronic
appliances when not in use
and set the thermostat to
use less heat and air
conditioning.
39
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 27
theater, and City Hall buildings. The City will continue to reduce energy use through an upgrade of remaining heating
and cooling systems, continued upgrade to LED lights and streetlights, installation of energy management systems,
and, the installation of a solar hot water heaters and/or heat pump systems where feasible.
The City will take the following actions to reduce emissions through energy efficiency.
TABLE 8: ENERGY EFFICIENCY ACTIONS
ID Measure GHG Reduction by 2030
(MTCO2e)
Share of
Reductions
EE-1 Green Building Reach Code 2,350 41%
EE-2 Energy Efficiency Programs 3,411 59%
EE-3 Public Lighting 8 <1%
EE-4 Municipal Energy Efficiency Audit and Retrofits 16 <1%
TOTAL 5,784 100%
E NERGY E FFICIENCY ACTIONS
EE-1 Green Building Reach Code. Implement the City's green building ordinance that requires all new residential and
non-residential buildings to use electric heat pump technology for their space and water heating and requires natural
gas appliances, if installed, to be electric-ready.
EE-2 Energy Efficiency. Promote and expand participation in residential and commercial energy efficiency and
electrification programs.
1. Work with organizations and agencies such as Silicon Valley Clean Energy and PG&E to implement energy
efficiency and electrification programs and actions.
2. Identify and promote utility, state, and federal rebate, incentive, financing, and loan programs.
EE-3 Public Lighting. Replace energy-inefficient street, parking lot, and other municipal outdoor lights with LED
lights.
EE-4 Municipal Energy Efficiency Audit and Retrofits. Identify and implement energy efficiency projects in municipal
buildings and facilities and electrification of existing building systems and equipment that use natural gas.
40
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 28
WASTE REDUCTION
The things we buy, consume, and throw away generate a lot of greenhouse gas emissions during manufacturing,
transport, distribution, and disposal. The best way to reduce emissions is to purchase and consume less in the first
place, and then find someone who can reuse whatever is no longer need before considering recycling or disposal.
Due to the way the City accounts for community emissions, the Climate Action Plan does not take credit for reducing
upstream emissions. Instead, our greenhouse gas accounting is directly concerned with emissions that are created
from the anaerobic decomposition of organic waste in the landfill. The
decomposition process creates methane, which is 28 times more potent as a
greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Although landfills capture most of the
methane, and some use that methane to create biogas or electricity, about one-
quarter of it escapes into the atmosphere.
The good news is that it is relatively easy to divert organic material from the
landfill. Paper and cardboard can be recycled. Food scraps, some paper (like
napkins and paper towels), and yard waste can be composted, either at home
or at the compost facility. Surplus food can be donated to non-profits that
distribute it to the needy. About half of the organic material that is put into the
landfill is “recoverable.” California has established targets to reduce organic
waste disposal by 50% by 2020 and 75% by 2030 and has passed several laws to
meet those goals. If achieved, emissions in Saratoga’s waste sector will be
reduced by approximately 3,850 MTCO2e (see the section on State Actions). The
measures below are local actions that the City will take to assist in implementing
statewide programs and achieve our mutual waste reduction goals. To avoid
double counting, no emissions reductions are taken for these local actions.
The City will take the following actions to reduce emissions from waste.
W ASTE R EDUCTION ACTIONS
WR-1 Commercial Organic Waste. Work with the City's waste hauler and other organizations to divert commercial
organic waste from the landfill through waste reduction, recycling, composting, and participation in food recovery
programs.
1. Require the City’s waste hauler to conduct outreach and education to businesses subject to State organic
waste recycling mandates (AB 1826 and SB 1383) and ensure compliance with the law.
2. Require the City’s waste hauler to educate commercial and multi-family property owners on the proper
use of on-site recycling and composting facilities. Outreach and education activities may include, but are
not limited to, site visits, waste audits, “how-to” demonstrations and presentations, marketing
campaigns, and provision of receptacles and signage.
3. Require development projects to provide adequate waste and recycling facilities and access as feasible.
What You Can Do
#1 Buy only as much as you
need.
#2 Buy locally grown food
and eat less meat.
#3 Put your food scraps in
the green can and/or
compost them at home.
#4 Donate extra food and
used clothing and
housewares to charities.
#5 Don’t be a “wishful”
recycler. Be scrupulous
about how you sort your
recyclables.
41
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 29
WR-2 Residential Organic Waste. Work with the City's waste hauler to expand acceptable items for food waste
collection and to educate and motivate residents to utilize curbside collection services and home composting for
food waste. Outreach and education activities may include, but are not limited to, waste audits, “how-to”
demonstrations and presentations, marketing campaigns, and provision of receptacles and signage.
WR-3 Construction & Demolition Debris. Require all loads of construction and demolition debris to be processed
for recovery of materials as required by law and to the maximum amount feasible.
WR-4 Waste Diversion Targets. Review and revise the City's franchise agreement with the City's waste hauler to
ensure waste reduction and diversion targets are met. Require regular residential and commercial waste audits and
waste characterization studies to identify opportunities for increased diversion and to track progress in meeting
targets.
WR-5 Extended Producer Responsibility. Encourage the State to regulate the production and packaging of consumer
goods and take-back programs. Encourage on-demand delivery services to reduce packaging waste and investigate
requirements and incentives for same.
WR-6 Waste Reduction. Utilize the City and waste hauler’s websites, how-to guides, newsletters, handouts,
presentations, events, and other forms of public outreach to promote reuse, repair, and recycling of products and
encourage reduced use of packaging and single use items.
WR-7 Waste from Public Facilities. Increase opportunities for recycling, reuse, and composting at City facilities.
1. Embark on an educational and social marketing-based campaign to increase recycling, composting, reuse,
and waste reduction within municipal operations.
2. Conduct periodic waste audits of City facilities to understand where opportunities for increased diversion
lie and to track progress.
42
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 30
WATER CONSERVATION
Saratoga is no stranger to periodic droughts and the need to conserve water, and the community has responded by
reducing per capita water use by about 31%, from 143 gallons per person per day (gpcd) in 2005 to 98 gpcd in 2017.
In addition to installing low-flow fixtures (showerheads, faucets, and toilets) and water-efficient appliances (clothes
washers and dishwashers), residents and businesses are planting native, drought-tolerant species and even replacing
lawns with attractive, low-water use gardens. Good thing, because as temperatures continue to rise, we will
experience more droughts and more intense heat waves than before.
Saratoga’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory counts emissions that are
generated from the energy used to pump, treat, and convey water from the
water source to Saratoga water users. Far more emissions are created from
the energy that is used to heat water, but those emissions are counted in the
residential and commercial sectors. Therefore, the water sector comprises a
much smaller share of community emissions than one might expect.
The water agencies that supply Saratoga’s water are committed to
sustainable business practices. San Jose Water Company switched to Santa
Clara Valley Clean Energy in 2017, and Santa Clara Valley Water District
(which provides water to San Jose Water Company) has a goal to be carbon
neutral in 2020. As a result, emissions from the water sector are relatively
small. While the community has reduced water consumption about 1.9% each
year since 2005, this plan conservatively assumes water consumption will
continue to decline an average of 1% each year through 2030.
The City will take the following actions to reduce emissions from water use.
TABLE 8: WATER CONSERVATION ACTIONS
ID Measure GHG Reduction by 2030
(MTCO2e)
Share of
Reductions
WC-1 Water Conservation 44 100%
WC-2 Municipal Water Use Included in above -
W ATER CONSERVATION A CTIONS
WC-1 Water Conservation. Reduce indoor and outdoor water use in residential and commercial buildings and
landscaping.
1.Work with San Jose Water Company (SJWC), Valley Water, and other organizations to promote water
conservation programs and incentives.
What You Can Do
#1 Replace your lawn with a
drought-tolerant garden.
#2 Install a drip irrigation
system and check it regularly
for leaks.
#3 Install low water flow
faucets, showerheads, and
toilets.
#4 Buy water-efficient
dishwashers and clothes
washers when it’s time to
replace them.
43
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 31
2.Educate residents and businesses about local and State laws requiring retrofit of non-compliant plumbing
fixtures during remodeling and at resale.
3.Ensure all projects requiring building permits, plan check, or design review comply with State and SJWC
regulations.
4.Encourage the installation of greywater and rainwater collection systems and the use of recycled water
where available.
WC-2 Municipal Water Use. Reduce indoor and outdoor water use in municipal facilities and operations.
1.Replace high water use plants and inefficient irrigation systems with water-efficient landscaping.
2.Replace turf with water-efficient plantings as appropriate.
3. Replace inefficient plumbing fixtures with high-efficiency fixtures.
44
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 32
CARBON SEQUESTRATION
The natural environment has been extensively altered by human civilization,
often with little consideration for how natural systems function, depriving us
of the important benefits they offer. Clearing and draining of wetlands,
forestlands, grasslands, and other open space for agricultural production or
urban development decreases or eliminates the capacity of those natural
systems to store carbon. The carbon dioxide stored in soil, trees, and other
vegetation is released into the atmosphere when forestland and open space
is converted to other uses. Restoration of these natural areas, and
establishment of new ones, has the potential to tie up or sequester
greenhouse gas emissions in the form of soil and wood carbon. One way
Saratoga can sequester emissions is by encouraging tree planting in the
community.
TABLE 9: CARBON SEQUESTRATION ACTIONS
ID Measure GHG Reduction by 2030
(MTCO2e)
Share of
Reductions
CS-1 City Forest 248 100%
C ARBON S EQUESTRATION ACTIONS
CS-1 City Forest. Increase carbon sequestration and improve air quality and natural cooling by increasing tree cover
in Saratoga.
1. Plant additional trees on City-owned land, including public parks, open space, medians, and rights of way,
where feasible.
2. Review and amend, as appropriate, parking lot landscape standards to maximize tree cover, shade, size,
growth, and sequestration potential.
3. Regulate and minimize removal of large trees and require planting of replacement trees.
4. Require that the site planning, construction, and maintenance of new development preserve existing
healthy trees and native vegetation on site to the maximum extent feasible. Replace trees and vegetation
not able to be saved where applicable.
5. Encourage community members to plant trees on private land by providing reduced-cost trees to the public
through a bulk purchasing program.
6. Provide information to the public, including landscape companies, gardeners, and nurseries, on carbon
sequestration rates, drought tolerance, and fire resistance of different tree species.
What You Can Do
#1 Plant trees appropriate to
your situation.
#2 Add compost to your soil.
#3 Purchase carbon offsets
for airplane flights and other
emissions that are difficult to
mitigate.
45
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 33
ADAPTATION
California is already experiencing the effects of climate change. Every year, it seems like the news gets grimmer:
more wildfires, more heat waves, longer droughts, more intense storms, less snowpack, and less fresh water. Annual
average air temperatures have already increased by about 1.8 °F in California, and that number will likely double
even if the world can reduce emissions 80% by 2050. Saratoga needs to be prepared for the likely impacts of climate
change, including flooding from more intense storms, health impacts from heat exposure and poor air quality, and
safety risks from the increased likelihood of wildfires and landslides.
Many of the recommended actions incorporated in this Climate Action Plan will help the community prepare for the
effects of climate change. Reducing water use will ease competition for limited water supplies expected from higher
temperatures and reduced snowmelt, while reducing electricity use will help ease demand for diminishing
hydroelectric power. Other expected effects from climate change – such as higher frequency of large damaging fires
and pest and insect epidemics – must be anticipated through adequate public safety, emergency, and public health
responses.
The City will take the following actions to adapt to climate change.
A DAPTATION ACTIONS
AD-1 Climate Change Adaptation. Prepare for and respond to the expected impacts of climate change.
1. Continue to incorporate the likelihood of increased risk of wildfire and extreme heat and storm events in
the City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
2. Incorporate the likelihood of climate change impacts into City emergency planning and training.
3. Provide cooling centers during extreme heat events and facilities to recharge batteries and connect to
power during power outages such as Public Safety Power Shut off events. Provide public safety notifications
to community members, especially vulnerable populations.
4. Consider climate change implications when approving new projects and planning for growth, facilities, and
infrastructure in areas potentially affected by climate change.
5. Coordinate with water districts, wildlife agencies, flood control and fire districts, Santa Clara County, and
other relevant organizations to address climate change impacts and develop adaptation strategies. Address
human health and the health and adaptability of natural systems, including the following:
a. Water resources, including expanded rainwater harvesting, water storage and conservation techniques,
water reuse, water-use and irrigation efficiency, and reduction of impervious surfaces.
b. Biological resources.
c. Public health, including heat-related health plans, vector control, air quality, safe water, and improved
sanitation.
d. Environmental hazard defenses, including flood control and fire prevention and suppression.
46
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 34
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The Climate Action Plan contains actions that the City will undertake to reduce
community emissions. While the City can compel some action by adopting
ordinances and building regulations, much of the success of our plan will depend
on informing community members and encouraging them to take action on their
own. This section details the ways in which the City will seek public engagement
and work with local businesses and community groups to achieve the emissions
reductions identified for actions in other sections of the Plan.
The City will take the following actions to engage the community to reduce
emissions.
TABLE 10: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ACTIONS
ID Measure
CE-1 Community Education
CE-2 Community Outreach
CE-3 Advocacy
CE-4 Green Businesses
C OMMUNITY E NGAGEMENT A CTIONS
CE-1 Community Education. Work with community-based outreach organizations to educate and motivate
community members on ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in their homes, businesses, transportation
modes, and other activities.
CE-2 Community Outreach. Implement a community-wide public outreach and behavior change campaign to engage
residents, businesses, and consumers around the impacts of climate change and the ways individuals and
organizations can reduce their GHG emissions and create a more sustainable, resilient, and healthier community.
1. Conduct outreach to a wide variety of neighborhood, business, educational, faith, service, and social
organizations.
2. Inform the public about the benefits of installing energy and water efficient appliances and fixtures,
electrifying homes and commercial buildings, installing solar energy systems, and purchasing 100% carbon-
free and renewable electricity.
3. Inform the public about the benefits of using carbon-free and low-carbon transportation modes, such as
driving electric vehicles, walking, bicycling, taking public transportation, and ridesharing.
4. Inform the public about the environmental benefits of eating less meat and dairy products, growing food
at home, and purchasing locally produced food.
What You Can Do
#1 Commit to reducing your
carbon footprint by taking
the actions identified in this
Plan.
#2 Get your business
certified as a Green Business
with the Santa Clara County
Green Business Program.
47
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 35
5. Partner with SVCE, Valley Water, PG&E, San Jose Water Company, West Valley Collection & Recycling, Santa
Clara Valley Transportation Authority, and other entities to promote available financing, audits, rebates,
incentives, and services to the Saratoga community.
6. Utilize the City's website, newsletters, social media, bill inserts, public service announcements and
advertisements, recognition programs, handouts, presentations, events, and other forms of public
outreach.
CE-3 Advocacy. Advocate at the state and federal levels for policies and actions that support the rapid transition to
GHG-free energy sources, electrification of buildings and the transportation fleet, and other impactful measures to
sharply reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
CE-4 Green Businesses. Encourage local businesses to participate in the Santa Clara County Green Business Program.
48
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 36
IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING
Plans are only effective if they’re implemented and results are carefully evaluated. The City will prepare an annual
assessment of its progress implementing the actions contained in this Climate Action Plan and will continue to
quantify community and greenhouse gas emissions to determine if it is on track to meet its reduction targets.
The City will take the following actions to implement and monitor the Climate Action Plan.
TABLE 11: IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING ACTIONS
ID Measure
IM-1 Annual Monitoring
IM-2 Update GHG Emissions Inventories
IM-3 Funding Sources
IM-4 Update the Climate Action Plan
IM-1 Annual Monitoring. Monitor and report on the City's progress annually. Create an annual priorities list for
implementation.
IM-2 Update GHG Emissions Inventory. Update the greenhouse gas emissions inventory for community emissions
annually.
IM-3 Funding Sources.
1. Identify funding sources for recommended actions and pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants as
appropriate.
2. Investigate creation of a local carbon fund or other permanent source of revenue to implement the
Climate Action Plan.
IM-4 Update the Climate Action Plan. Update the Climate Action Plan regularly to incorporate new long-term
reduction targets and strategies to meet those targets.
49
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 37
REFERENCES
Association of Bay Area Governments and Metropolitan Transportation Commission. (April 2013.) Draft Plan Bay
Area Draft Environmental Impact Report.
Association of Bay Area Governments and Metropolitan Transportation Commission. (2018.) Plan Bay Area
Projections 2040. Retrieved from http://projections.planbayarea.org/.
Bedsworth, Louise, Dan Cayan, Guido Franco, Leah Fisher and Sonya Ziaja. (California Governor’s Office of Planning
and Research, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California Energy Commission and California Public Utilities
Commission). Statewide Summary Report. California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment. (2018). Publication
number: SUMCCCA4-2018-013. https://www.energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/Statewide_Reports-SUM-
CCCA4-2018-013_Statewide_Summary_Report_ADA.pdf.
Cal-Adapt. https://cal-adapt.org/
California Air Resources Board. (2017). California’s 2017 Climate Change Scoping Plan. Retrieved from
https://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/scopingplan/scoping_plan_2017.pdf.
California Air Resources Board. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/wildfires-climate-change.
California Air Resources Board. (June 26, 2020) “EMFAC Off-Model Adjustment Factors for Carbon Dioxide
Emissions to Account for the SAFE Vehicles Rule Part One and the Final Safe Rule.” Retrieved from
https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/msei/emfac_off_model_co2_adjustment_factors_06262020-
final.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.
California Department of Finance, Report E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties and the State,
January 1, 2011-2019, with 2010 Benchmark.
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. California Adaptation Planning Guide. Final Public Review Draft.
(March 2020). https://www.caloes.ca.gov/HazardMitigationSite/Documents/APG2-FINAL-PR-DRAFTAccessible.pdf
City of Saratoga. (May 2020). 2017 Greenhouse Gas Inventory for Community Emissions and Emissions Forecast
through 2050.
City of Saratoga. (2010). General Plan Circulation and Scenic Highway Element.
City of Saratoga. (2007). General Plan Land Use Element.
City of Saratoga. (2007). General Plan Open Space and Conservation Element.
Cool Climate Network. Consumption-Based Greenhouse Gas Inventories. Retrieved from
https://coolclimate.org/inventory.
Global Footprint Network. National Footprint and Biocapacity Accounts 2019 Public Data Package. Retrieved from
https://www.footprintnetwork.org/
50
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan 38
Jones, Christopher and Daniel Kammen. (December 15, 2015). A Consumption-Based Greenhouse Gas Inventory of
San Francisco Bay Area Neighborhoods, Cities and Counties: Prioritizing Climate Action for Different Locations.
ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA. (July 2019). U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and
Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Version 1.2.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. (2014). Fifth Assessment Report.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration. (January 15, 2020). “NASA, NOAA Analyses Reveal 2019 Second
Warmest Year on Record.” Retrieved from https://www.giss.nasa.gov/research/news/20200115/.
Office of the Press Secretary, the White House. “Obama Administration Finalizes Historic 54.5 MPG Fuel Efficiency
Standards.” Office of the Press Secretary, The White House. August 28, 2012. http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-
office/2012/08/28/obama-administration-finalizes-historic-545-mpg-fuel-efficiency-standard
U.S. Census Bureau. https://data.census.gov/cedsci/
U.S Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks. EPA 430-R-
20-002.
U.S Environmental Protection Agency. (December 7, 2009.) Final Rule, EPA, Endangerment and Cause or Contribute
Findings for Greenhouse Gases Under the Clean Air Act. 74 Fed. Reg. 66495.
U.S Environmental Protection Agency. Final Rule: Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Title V Greenhouse Gas
Tailoring Rule Fact Sheet.
51
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-1
APPENDIX A: IMPLEMENTATION TABLE
The work plan in Table A-1 contains information to support staff and community implementation of the
measures to effectively integrate them into budgets, the capital improvement program, and other programs
and projects. The headings included in Table A-1 are defined as follows:
Code: The abbreviation that is used to refer to the strategy in the CAP.
Strategy/Action: The strategy language used to guide actions and the specific actions that will be used to implement
the strategy.
Time Frame: The year by which a measure should be effective by year’s end. For a measure to be effective, the
necessary programs and efforts should be active, and any infrastructure or other capital improvements should be in
place. Once effective, many measures will continue through 2030, so they do not have end dates. Time frames for
effectively setting up the measures are described as follows:
• Ongoing (continuation of an action that has been implemented since 2018)
• Near-Term (by 2023)
• Mid-Term (by 2025)
• Long-Term (by 2030)
City Staff Time: The estimated cost to the City (in staff hours) to complete implementation of the measure,
identified as follows:
• Low (less than 80 hours)
• Medium (80–500 hours)
• High (more than 500 hours)
GHG Reductions (MTCO2e): Amount of GHG emissions reduced by 2030. If no amount is identified, either additional
information is needed to quantify a reduction amount or the action is supportive of another action, as described in
the CAP.
Key Metrics: Targets and datapoints that the City will use to track progress and measure success.
52
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-2
TABLE A-1: IMPLEMENTATION TABLE
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
LOW CARBON TRANSPORTATION
LCT-1 Zero Emission Vehicles. Develop a Zero Emission Vehicle
Plan that will result in 25% of passenger vehicles in
Saratoga to be zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), including
plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric
vehicles, by 2030. Consider incorporating the following
actions in the plan:
7,264 Rate of ZEV adoption in Saratoga
and Santa Clara County. Target is
25%.
1. Work with SVCE to implement and update the Electric
Vehicle Infrastructure Joint Action Plan.
Mid-Term Medium
2. Adopt reach codes that require EV-ready infrastructure
and charging station installation above State baseline
building requirements for new and remodeled
residential, multi-family, and commercial projects.
Mid-Term Medium
3. Adopt permit streamlining practices to expedite the
approval process for new EV infrastructure and
charging station installation.
Near-Term Low
4. Work with SVCE to identify multi-family sites and
corridors appropriate for EV fast chargers.
Near-Term Low
5. Work with SVCE to promote available rebates and
technical support for multi-family and workplace sites.
Near-Term Low
6. Provide free or low-cost charging for ZEVs at City
parking lots.
Near-Term Low
7. Provide wayfinding signage to public EV chargers. Mid-Term Medium
8. Require new and remodeled gas stations to provide EV
fast chargers and hydrogen fueling stations.
Near-Term Medium
53
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-3
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
9. Participate in programs to promote EV adoption,
including "Drive an EV" events and other media and
outreach campaigns.
Near-Term Low
10. Encourage or require, as practicable, ride hailing and
delivery service companies to utilize zero emission
vehicles.
Mid-Term Medium
11. Promote use of electric bicycles, scooters, and
motorcycles.
Near-Term Low
LCT-2 Bicycling. Encourage bicycling as an alternative to vehicular
travel. Establish and maintain a system of bicycle facilities
that are consistent with the City's General Plan and Bicycle
and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Long-Term High 328 Complete projects identified in
the City’s General Plan and
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master
Plan.
LCT-3 Walking. Encourage walking as an alternative to vehicular
travel. Establish and maintain a system of pedestrian
facilities that are consistent with the City's General Plan
and Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Long-Term High 16 Complete projects identified in
the City’s General Plan and
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master
Plan.
LCT-4 Employee Trip Reduction. Reduce vehicle miles traveled
commuting to work through the following actions:
36 Number and % of employers
subject to requirement that are
providing transportation demand
programs to employees. Target is
100%.
1. Work with Santa Clara VTA and the Bay Area Air
Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to promote
transportation demand programs to local employers,
such as rideshare matching programs, vanpool
incentive programs, emergency ride home programs,
telecommuting, transit use discounts and subsidies,
showers and changing facilities, bicycle racks and
lockers, and other incentives to use transportation
other than single occupant vehicles.
Near-Term Medium
2. Embark on an outreach and educational campaign to
encourage employees to reduce vehicle trips.
Near-Term Low
LCT-5 Public Transit. Support and promote public transit by
taking the following actions:
245 % of VTA buses serving Saratoga
that use renewable diesel and
54
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-4
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
1. Work with Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority
(VTA) to maximize ridership through expansion and/or
improvement of transit routes, schedules, and stops.
Mid-Term Medium are electric. Target is 50% use
renewable diesel and 50% are
electric.
2. Encourage VTA to use renewable diesel as a transition
fuel and to purchase electric buses whenever replacing
existing buses.
Near-Term Low
LCT-6 Safe Routes to School. Support Safe Routes to School and
strive to increase bicycling, walking, carpooling, and taking
public transit to school.
188 Projects implemented. Target is a
29% decrease in the number of
children arriving to school by car.
1. Promote school and student participation by
encouraging schools to implement and/or expand Safe
Routes to School programs.
Near-Term Low
2. Identify issues associated with unsafe bicycle and
pedestrian facilities between neighborhoods and
schools, apply for Safe Routes to School grants, and
execute plans to improve pedestrian and bicycle
facilities.
Long-Term High
LCT-C7 Traffic System Management and Vehicle Idling. - Projects implemented.
1. Implement signal synchronization to minimize wait
times at traffic lights and to reduce congestion through
increased traffic flow.
Long-Term High
2. Utilize intelligent traffic management systems to
improve traffic flow.
Long-Term High
3. Encourage drivers and autonomous vehicles to limit
vehicle idling, particularly at schools during drop off
and pick up.
Short-Term Low
LCT-C8 Zero and Low Emission City Vehicles. 43 Decrease in amount of gasoline
consumption. Target is 50%
decrease.
1. Purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles for the City
fleet whenever feasible, and when not, the most fuel-
efficient models available.
Long-Term Medium
55
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-5
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
2. Promote City adoption and procurement of zero-
emission vehicles and charging infrastructure to the
public.
Near-Term Low
LCT-C9 Low Carbon Fuels. Use low-carbon fuel such as renewable
diesel as a transition fuel in the City's fleet and encourage
the City's service providers to do the same.
Near-Term Medium 5 Amount of diesel that is replaced
by renewable diesel. Target is
100%
LCT-10 City Employee Commute. Provide City employees with
incentives to use alternatives to single occupant auto
commuting, such as free electric vehicle charging, transit
subsidies, bicycle facilities, ridesharing services, flexible
schedules, and telecommuting when practical.
Near-Term Medium 2 Increase in number and percent
of City employees who take
alternative transportation to
work. Target is at least 5.4%.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
RE-1 GHG-Free Electricity. Support Silicon Valley Clean Energy in
the continued delivery of 100% greenhouse gas free
electricity and its 100% renewable electricity option (which
is also 100% GHG-free).
Ongoing Low 3,651 SVCE continues to provide 100%
GHG-free electricity
RE-2 Renewable Energy Generation 1,528 1,452 KW DC distributed solar
capacity added each year on
average.
1. Provide solar permit streamlining and reduce or
eliminate fees, as feasible.
Near-Term Medium
2. Amend building codes, development codes, design
guidelines, and zoning ordinances, as necessary, to
facilitate small (up to 10 kW DC), medium (10 to 250
kW DC), and large-scale (over 250 kW DC) solar power
installations.
Near-Term Medium
3. Encourage installation of solar panels on rooftops and
over parking areas on commercial projects, schools,
and residential developments.
Long-Term Medium
4. Identify and promote incentives and financing and loan
programs for residential and non-residential solar
projects.
Near-Term Low
56
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-6
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
5. Encourage installation of battery storage in
conjunction with renewable energy generation
projects.
Near-Term Low
RE-3 Building and Appliance Electrification. Promote
electrification of building systems and appliances that
currently use natural gas, including heating systems, hot
water heaters, stoves, and clothes dryers. See also Action
EE-1 in the Energy Efficiency section.
Near-Term Low - Actions implemented.
RE-4 Innovative Technologies. Investigate and pursue or adopt
policies to allow the commercial and residential sectors to
pursue innovative technologies such as microgrids (a group
of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources
that can disconnect from the grid and operate
independently in “island mode”), battery storage, and
demand-response programs that will improve the electric
grid’s resiliency and help to balance demand and
renewable energy production.
Near-Term Medium - Actions implemented.
RE-5 Municipal 100% Renewable Electricity. Continue to
purchase Silicon Valley Clean Energy 100% GHG-free and
renewable energy for all facilities.
Ongoing Low 17 City continues to purchase 100%
renewable energy each year.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
EE-1 Green Building Reach Code. Implement the City's green
building ordinance that requires all new residential and
non-residential buildings to use electric heat pump
technology for their space and water heating and requires
natural gas appliances, if installed, to be electric-ready.
Ongoing Low 2,350 Number of new buildings subject
to ordinance each year.
EE-2 Energy Efficiency Programs. Promote and expand
participation in residential and commercial energy
efficiency and electrification programs.
3,411 Monitor PG&E reports. Target is
for community-wide electricity
and natural gas consumption
declines an average of 0.5% each
year.
1. Work with organizations and agencies such as Silicon
Valley Clean Energy and PG&E to implement energy
efficiency and electrification programs and actions.
Near-Term Medium
57
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-7
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
2. Identify and promote utility, state, and federal rebate,
incentive, financing, and loan programs.
Near-Term Low
EE-3 Public Lighting. Replace energy-inefficient street, parking
lot, and other municipal outdoor lights with LED lights.
Long-Term High 8 Convert all streetlights to LED.
EE-4 Municipal Energy Efficiency Audits and Retrofits. Identify
and implement energy efficiency projects in municipal
buildings and facilities and electrification of existing
building systems and equipment that use natural gas.
Long-Term High 16 Implement projects. Target is to
reduce energy use 20%.
WASTE REDUCTION
WR-1 Commercial Organic Waste. Work with the City's waste
hauler and other organizations to divert commercial
organic waste from the landfill through waste reduction,
recycling, composting, and participation in food recovery
programs.
1. Require the City’s waste hauler to conduct outreach
and education to businesses subject to State organic
waste recycling mandates (AB 1826 and SB 1383) and
ensure compliance with the law.
2. Require the City’s waste hauler to educate commercial
and multi-family property owners on the proper use of
on-site recycling and composting facilities. Outreach
and education activities may include, but are not
limited to, site visits, waste audits, “how-to”
demonstrations and presentations, marketing
campaigns, and provision of receptacles and signage.
3. Require development projects to provide adequate
waste and recycling facilities and access as feasible.
Near-Term Medium -
Monitor CalRecycle reports for
tons of waste landfilled and
composition of alternative daily,
and statewide characterization of
waste reports. Target is for
organic waste disposal to decline
75% from 2014 level.
WR-2 Residential Organic Waste. Work with the City's waste
hauler to expand acceptable items for food waste
collection and to educate and motivate residents to utilize
curbside collection services and home composting for food
waste. Outreach and education activities may include, but
are not limited to, waste audits, “how-to” demonstrations
Near-Term Medium -
58
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-8
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
and presentations, marketing campaigns, and provision of
receptacles and signage.
WR-3 Construction & Demolition Debris. Require all loads of
construction and demolition debris to be processed for
recovery of materials as required by law and to the
maximum amount feasible.
Ongoing Low -
WR-4 Waste Diversion Targets. Review and revise the City's
franchise agreement with the City's waste hauler to ensure
waste reduction and diversion targets are met. Require
regular residential and commercial waste audits and waste
characterization studies to identify opportunities for
increased diversion and to track progress in meeting
targets.
Near-Term Medium -
WR-5 Extended Producer Responsibility. Encourage the State to
regulate the production and packaging of consumer goods
and take-back programs. Encourage on-demand delivery
services to reduce packaging waste and investigate
requirements and incentives for same.
Near-Term Low - Actions implemented.
WR-6 Waste Reduction. Utilize the City and waste hauler’s
websites, how-to guides, newsletters, handouts,
presentations, events, and other forms of public outreach
to promote reuse, repair, and recycling of products and
encourage reduced use of packaging and single use items.
Near-Term Medium - Actions implemented.
WR-7 Waste from Public Facilities. Increase opportunities for
recycling, reuse, and composting at City facilities.
1. Embark on an educational and social marketing-based
campaign to increase recycling, composting, reuse, and
waste reduction within municipal operations.
2. Conduct periodic waste audits of City facilities to
understand where opportunities for increased
diversion lie and to track progress.
Near-Term Medium - Organic waste disposal declines
75% from 2014 level.
WATER CONSERVATION
WC-1 Water Conservation. 44
59
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-9
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
1. Work with San Jose Water Company (SJWC), Valley
Water, and other organizations to promote water
conservation programs and incentives.
Near-Term Low Monitor community-wide water
consumption (gpcd) as reported
by San Jose Water Company.
Target is for water consumption
to decline an average of 1% each
year.
2. Educate residents and businesses about local and State
laws requiring retrofit of non-compliant plumbing
fixtures during remodeling and at resale.
Near-Term Medium
3. Ensure all projects requiring building permits, plan
check, or design review comply with State and SJWC
regulations.
Near-Term Medium
4. Encourage the installation of greywater and rainwater
collection systems and the use of recycled water
where available.
Near-Term Medium
WC-2 Municipal Water Use. Reduce indoor and outdoor water
use in municipal facilities and operations.
Included in above Monitor City’s water
consumption. Target is for water
consumption to decline an
average of 1% each year.
1. Replace high water use plants and inefficient irrigation
systems with water-efficient landscaping.
Long-Term
2. Replace turf with water-efficient plantings as
appropriate.
Long-Term
3. Replace inefficient plumbing fixtures with high-
efficiency fixtures.
Long-Term Medium
CARBON SEQUESTRATION
CS-1 City Forest. 248 Target is for 700 new trees to be
planted each year. 1. Plant additional trees on City-owned land, including
public parks, open space, medians, and rights of way,
where feasible.
Long-Term High
60
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-10
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
2. Review and amend, as appropriate, parking lot
landscape standards to maximize tree cover, shade,
size, growth, and sequestration potential.
Near-Term Medium
3. Regulate and minimize removal of large trees and
require planting of replacement trees.
Ongoing Medium
4. Require that the site planning, construction, and
maintenance of new development preserve existing
healthy trees and native vegetation on site to the
maximum extent feasible. Replace trees and
vegetation not able to be saved where applicable.
Ongoing Medium
5. Encourage community members to plant trees on
private land by providing reduced-cost trees to the
public through a bulk purchasing program.
Long-Term High
6. Provide information to the public, including landscape
companies, gardeners, and nurseries, on carbon
sequestration rates, drought tolerance, and fire
resistance of different tree species.
Mid-Term Medium
ADAPTATION
AD-1 Climate Change Adaptation. - Actions implemented.
1. Continue to incorporate the likelihood of increased risk
of wildfire and extreme heat and storm events in the
City's Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Mid-Term Medium
2. Incorporate the likelihood of climate change impacts
into City emergency planning and training.
Mid-Term Medium
3. Provide cooling centers during extreme heat events
and facilities to recharge batteries and connect to
power during power outages such as Public Safety
Power Shut off events. Provide public safety
Near-Term Medium
61
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-11
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
notifications to community members, especially
vulnerable populations.
4. Consider climate change implications when approving
new projects and planning for growth, facilities, and
infrastructure in areas potentially affected by climate
change.
Long-Term High
5. Coordinate with water districts, wildlife agencies, flood
control and fire districts, Santa Clara County, and other
relevant organizations to address climate change
impacts and develop adaptation strategies. Address
human health and the health and adaptability of
natural systems, including the following:
a. Water resources, including expanded rainwater
harvesting, water storage and conservation
techniques, water reuse, water-use and irrigation
efficiency, and reduction of impervious surfaces.
b. Biological resources.
c. Public health, including heat-related health plans,
vector control, air quality, safe water, and improved
sanitation.
d. Environmental hazard defenses, including flood
control and fire prevention and suppression.
Long-Term High
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
CE-1 Community Education. Work with community-based
outreach organizations to educate and motivate
community members on ways to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions in their homes, businesses, transportation
modes, and other activities.
Near-Term Medium - Actions implemented.
CE-2 Community Outreach. Implement a community-wide
public outreach and behavior change campaign to engage
residents, businesses, and consumers around the impacts
of climate change and the ways individuals and
Long-Term High - Actions implemented.
62
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-12
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
organizations can reduce their GHG emissions and create a
more sustainable, resilient, and healthier community.
1. Conduct outreach to a wide variety of neighborhood,
business, educational, faith, service, and social
organizations.
2. Inform the public about the benefits of installing
energy and water efficient appliances and fixtures,
electrifying homes and commercial buildings, installing
solar energy systems, and purchasing 100% carbon-
free and renewable electricity.
3. Inform the public about the benefits of using carbon-
free and low-carbon transportation modes, such as
driving electric vehicles, walking, bicycling, taking
public transportation, and ridesharing.
4. Inform the public about the environmental benefits of
eating less meat and dairy products, growing food at
home, and purchasing locally produced food.
5. Partner with SVCE, Valley Water, PG&E, San Jose
Water Company, West Valley Collection & Recycling,
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, and other
entities to promote available financing, audits, rebates,
incentives, and services to the Saratoga community.
6. Utilize the City's website, newsletters, social media, bill
inserts, public service announcements and
advertisements, recognition programs, handouts,
presentations, events, and other forms of public
outreach.
CE-3 Advocacy. Advocate at the state and federal levels for
policies and actions that support the rapid transition to
GHG-free energy sources, electrification of buildings and
the transportation fleet, and other impactful measures to
sharply reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Long-Term Medium - Actions implemented.
63
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan A-13
CODE STRATEGY/ACTION TIME
FRAME
CITY STAFF
TIME
GHG REDUCTION
(MTCO2e) KEY METRICS
CE-4 Green Businesses. Encourage local businesses to
participate in the Santa Clara County Green Business
Program.
Ongoing Low - Number of green businesses
enrolled each year.
IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING
IM-1 Annual Monitoring. Monitor and report on the City's
progress annually. Create an annual priorities list for
implementation.
Near-Term Medium - Actions implemented.
IM-2 Update GHG Emissions Inventory. Update the greenhouse
gas emissions inventory for community emissions annually.
Near-Term Medium - Action implemented. Target is for
emissions to continue to decline
an average of 2,380 MTCO2e
each year.
IM-3 Funding Sources. - Adequate funding for CAP
actions. Number and amount of
grants received annually.
1. Identify funding sources for recommended actions and
pursue local, regional, state, and federal grants as
appropriate.
Long-Term High
2. Investigate creation of a local carbon fund or other
permanent source of revenue to implement the
Climate Action Plan.
Mid-Term Medium
IM-4 Update the Climate Action Plan. Update the Climate
Action Plan regularly to incorporate new long-term
reduction targets and strategies to meet those targets.
Long High - Action implemented.
64
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-1
APPENDIX B: GHG REDUCTION CALCULATIONS
GHG Emissions
Reductions
(MTCO 2 e/yr) by 2030
LCT-1 Zero Emission Vehicles -7,264
LCT-2 Bicycling -328
LCT-3 Walking -16
LCT-4 Employee Trip Reduction -36
LCT-5 Public Transit -245
LCT-6 Safe Routes to School -188
LCT-8 Zero and Low Emission City Vehicles -43
LCT-9 Low Carbon Fuels -5
LCT-10 City Employee Commute -2
RE-1 GHG-Free Electricity -3,651
RE-2 Renewable Energy -1,528
RE-5 Municipal 100% Renewable Electricity -17
EE-1 Green Building Reach Code -2,350
EE-2 Energy Efficiency -3,411
EE-3 Public Lighting -8
EE-4 Municipal Energy Efficiency Audit and Retrofits -16
WC-1 Water Conservation -44
CS-1 City Forest -248
-19,401
-13,639
RPS -1,529
TITLE 24 -340
-73
-3,853
-19,433
EMISSIONS REDUCTION SUMMARY
Saratoga Climate Action Plan 2030
Organic Waste Reduction
Measure
Local Actions
State Actions
Light and Heavy-Duty Fleet Regulations
TOTAL - STATE ACTIONS
TOTAL - LOCAL ACTIONS
Lighting Efficiency (AB 1109)
65
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-2
127,885
-38,834
89,051
152,909
91,745
-42%
2.7
2.1
GHG Target to Meet State Goals (40% below 1990 levels)
% Below 1990 Levels
Emissions per Service Population
Projected Emissions
Projected BAU Community-Wide GHG Emissions
Community-Wide Emissions with Local and State Actions Implemented
Emissions Reductions from Local and State Actions
Estimate GHG Emissions in 1990 (15% below 2008 levels)
Emissions per Capita
66
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-3
Jurisdiction 2015 2017 2020 2030 2040 2017-2030
Population 31,202 31,364 31,622 32,792 33,922 1,428
Person Per Household 2.87 2.88 2.88 2.81 2.88
Households 10,799 10,834 10,980 11,670 11,778 836
Jobs 8,750 8,720 8,675 10,413 12,150 1,693
Additional Commercial Sq. Ft.629,618 1,259,236 629,618
Service Population
(population + jobs)39,952 40,084 40,297 43,205 46,072 3,121
2015-2017 household, population, and persons per household data from Cal. Department of Finance E-5 Report (2019)
VMT Forecasts
Passenger Commercial Bus Total
2017 156,589,136 2,179,762 138,149 158,907,047
2020 159,654,813 2,125,032 138,149 161,917,994
2030 163,190,068 2,338,366 138,149 165,666,583
2040 163,242,792 2,598,713 138,149 165,979,654
Passenger vehicle data from http://capvmt.us-west-2.elasticbeanstalk.com/data
PeMS derived from Caltrans PeMS 17.1 http://pems.dot.ca.gov
Commercial VMT data from MTC utilizing 2017 Regional Transportation Plan forecasts
LEHD share from https://onthemap.ces.census.gov/
Projected Emission Factors
PG&E electricity 0.0000964 MTCO2e/kWh 0.0000922 MTCO2e/kWh
SVCE electricity1 0.0000000 MTCO2e/kWh 0.0000000 MTCO2e/kWh
DA electricity 0.0001962 MTCO2e/kWh 0.0001294 MTCO2e/kWh
Electricity, weighted average2 0.0000639 MTCO2e/kWh 0.0000556 MTCO2e/kWh
Residential electricity, weighted average3 0.0000536 MTCO2e/kWh 0.0000513 MTCO2e/kWh
Commercial electricity, weighted average4 0.0000395 MTCO2e/kWh 0.0000378 MTCO2e/kWh
Natural Gas 0.0053187 MTCO2e/therm 0.0053187 MTCO2e/therm
Gasoline/off-road 0.0088523 MTCO2/gallon 0.0088523 MTCO2/gallon
Diesel/off-road 0.0102951 MTCO2/gallon 0.0102951 MTCO2/gallon
0.0003288 MTCO2e/mile 0.0002620 MTCO2e/mile
Passenger vehicle coefficient 0.0003148 MTCO2e/mile 0.0002494 MTCO2e/mile
Passenger vehicle coefficient w/o EVs 0.0002609 MTCO2e/mile
Commercial vehicle coefficient 0.0012533 MTCO2e/mile 0.0010247 MTCO2e/mile
Bus coefficient 0.0022605 MTCO2e/mile 0.0022605 MTCO2e/mile
PG&E 47.17%
SVCE 43.44%
Other Direct Access 9.38%
PG&E 55.61%
SVCE 44.39%
PG&E 40.99%
SVCE 59.01%
Other Direct Access 0.00%
Transportation coefficient
Population data provided by M-Group
FORECAST
2030 and 2040 household data derived from M-Group population projections and ABAG Person Per Household projections from
ABAG-MTC's Plan Bay Area Projections 2040 (November 2018): http://mtcmedia.s3.amazonaws.com/files/Projections_2040-ABAG-
MTC-web.pdf. 2017 data is interpolated from 2015 and 2020 values.
2020 2030
Bus VMT within Saratoga City limits, calculated from Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority schedules and route maps for
routes 26, 37, 53, 57 and 58. 2018 data used as a proxy for all other years.
2015 and 2020 jobs data from ABAG's Plan Bay Area Projections 2040 (November 2018). 2030 and 2040 projections data provided
by M-Group.
4 Commercial weighted average is based on 2017 load distribution without DA as follows:
2Weighted average is based on 2017 electricity load distribution as follows:
3 Residential weighted average is based on 2017 load distribution as follows:
67
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-4
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-7,263.6 2030
Methodology
ZERO EMISSION VEHICLES
LCT-1
Develop a Zero Emission Vehicle Plan that will result in 25% of passenger vehicles
in Saratoga to be zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), including plug-in electric vehicles
(EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, by 2030. Consider incorporating the
following actions in the plan:
25% of VMT from Saratoga residents and workers is driven by ZEVs by 2030.
6. Provide free or low-cost charging for ZEVs at City parking lots.
7. Provide wayfinding signage to public EV chargers.
8. Require new and remodeled gas stations to provide EV fast chargers and
hydrogen fueling stations.
9. Participate in programs to promote EV adoption, including "Drive an EV" events
and other media and outreach campaigns.
10. Encourage or require, as practicable, ride hailing and delivery service
companies to utilize zero emission vehicles.
11. Promote adoption of electric bicycles, scooters and motorcycles.
1. Work with SVCE to implement and update the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Joint
Action Plan.
2. Adopt reach codes that require EV-ready infrastructure and charging station
installation above State baseline building requirements for new and remodeled
residential, multi-family and commercial projects.
3. Adopt permit streamlining practices to expedite the approval process for new EV
infrastructure and charging station installation.
4. Work with SVCE to identify multi-family sites and corridors appropriate for EV
fast chargers.
5. Work with SVCE to promote available rebates and technical support for multi-
family and workplace sites.
Santa Clara County has approximately 13% of all ZEVs in California (DMV, 1-1-19),
or 61,344 ZEVs in Santa Clara County out of a total 478,542 ZEVs in California. ZEVs
include battery electric cars (BEVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) and fuel cell
vehicles. CARB's proposed strategy is to put 4.2 million ZEVs on the road by 2030,
which is approximately 14% of light duty vehicles in California in 2030. In January
2018, Governor Jerry Brown issued Executive Order B-48-18 set a new goal of
having a total of 5 million ZEVs in California in 2030.
In January 2019, DMV reports there were 37,789 battery EVs, 22,748 plug-in hybrid
EVs, and 807 fuel cell vehicles, for a total of 61,344 ZEVs in Santa Clara County. We
conservatively assume the same percentage of EVs in Saratoga in 2030: 62% battery
EVs and 38% plug-in hybrids. There were 1,417,534 registered automobiles in Santa
Clara County in 2019. ZEVS represent an estimated 4.3% of registered automobiles
in Santa Clara County in 2019.
68
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-5
Sources
According to the Department of Energy, towns (population 2,500 to 50,000) need 54
public EV plugs per 1,000 PEVs. The City has installed 10 EV charging stations at
City Hall, downtown and the library (10 Level II ports and 10 Level I ports) and is
installing two Level II EV chargers (four ports total) at the Senior Center.
California Air Resources Board, 2017 Scoping Plan.
Smart, J., Bradley, T., and Salisbury, S., "Actual Versus Estimated Utility Factor of a
Large Set of Privately Owned Chevrolet Volts," SAE Int. J. Alt. Power. 3(1):2014,
doi:10.4271/2014-01-1803.
U.S, Department of Energy, Alternative Fuels Data Center,
https://www.afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric_emissions_sources.html. Sales
weighted average of 2016 model year vehicles with sales in 2015: 2015 sales from
"U.S. Plug-in Electric Vehicle Sales by Model"
(https://www.afdc.energy.gov/data/vehicles.html); MPGs from 2016 Fuel Economy
Guide (https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/)
The International Council on Clean Transportation, "California's continued electric
vehicle market development," May 2018,
https://www.theicct.org/sites/default/files/publications/CA-cityEV-Briefing-
20180507.pdf.
Silicon Valley Clean Energy is projecting a seven-fold increase in EVs registered in
its territory between the end of 2018 (approximately 26,000 EVs) and 2025 (190,000
EVs) under a business-as-usual scenario. We are conservatively projecting a six-
fold increase in the number of EVs between 2018 and 2030.
In January 2019, DMV reports there were 1,979 BEVs, 773 PHEVs, and 59 fuel cell
vehicles registered to Saratoga residents (zip codes 95070 and 95071), for a total of
2,811 ZEVs. This represents 0.59% of all ZEVS in California in 2019.
74% of the distance PHEVs drive is electric (Smart et al, 2014).
EV kWh/mile is 0.32 (US Dept of Energy).
Assuming the same share of ZEV ownership in Santa Clara County in 2030 as in
2019 (12.82%) means there would be approximately 538,440 ZEVs registered in
Santa Clara County by 2030, or approximately 38% of existing automobile
registrations. We conservatively assume 25% of the projected number of registered
automobiles will be ZEVs in Santa Clara County by 2030. This would require an
average annual growth rate of 18%. Electric vehicle sales in California grew by 20%
in 2016, followed by 29% growth in 2017 (ICCT, 2018). The number of ZEVs grew 35%
in Santa Clara County between 2018 and 2019. This data suggests that an annual
growth rate of 18% is reasonable, especially as the number of models expands and
battery technology and charging capacity improves.
69
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-6
45,373
1,477,289
25%
369,322
323,949
21.9%
Saratoga passenger VMT (Live In/Work In Area only)112,553,206 miles
24,681,378 miles
22,692,059 miles
Emissions without EV program 8,460 MTCO 2e
7,778 MTCO 2e
7,261,459 kWh
515 MTCO 2e
7,264 MTCO 2e
Electricity used by ZEVs
Electricity emissions from ZEVs
Emissions reduction
Additional ZEVs as a percent of Santa Clara vehicles
VMT from additional ZEVs
VMT driven with electricity
Percent of ZEVs in Santa Clara County in 2030
Projected number of ZEVs in Santa Clara County in 2030
Increase in ZEVs
Tailpipe emissions reduction with EV program
Projected number of registered passenger vehicles in Santa Clara County in 2030
Calculation
US Department of Energy, "National Plug-In Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Analysis,"
September 2017. https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy17osti/69031.pdf
Bay Area Air Quality Management District, Vehicle Miles Dataportal,
http://capvmt.us-west-2.elasticbeanstalk.com/, accessed 11/13/19.
California Department of Motor Vehicles, Estimated Vehicles Registered by County
for the Period January 1 through December 31, 2019," "Fuel Type by County as of
1/1/2019," and "Fuel Type by Zip Code as of 1/1/2019."
2030
Number of registered Santa Clara ZEVs in January 2018
Silicon Valley Clean Energy, "Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Joint Action Plan,"
September 2019.
70
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-7
Action
Target
GP Related Policies
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-328.5
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources Bay Area Air Quality Management District Vehicle Miles Traveled Dataportal,
http://capvmt.us-west-2.elasticbeanstalk.com/data.
BICYCLING
LCT - 2
Encourage bicycling as an alternative to vehicular travel. Establish and
maintain a system of bicycle facilities that are consistent with the City's
General Plan, Bicycle and Master Pedestrian Plan, and Complete Streets
policies.
2030
Studies cited by CAPCOA show each additional mile of bike lanes per square
mile increases the share of workers commuting by bicycle by 1% (CAPCOA SDT-
5). We have applied this to the following population segments:
• Live in/work in area
• Live in/work out of area
• Live in area/non-worker
• Live out of area/work in area
7.06 miles of Class I bike paths and 3.82 miles of Class II bike lanes
constructed by 2030.
Policy CI 5.1: Develop and maintain a Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan,
which will outline policies and improvements to streets, trails and pathways to
create a safe way for people of all ages to bike and walk on a daily basis.
Policy CI 5.2: Integrate the City’s bikeway and walkway system with those of
adjacent communities, where economically feasible.
Policy CI 5.3: Pursue the expansion and continuation of the multi-use path
along the Union Pacific Railroad alignment (Joe’s trail) east of Saratoga Avenue
and west of Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road that will link the Stevens Creek
Recreational Trail in Cupertino with the Los Gatos Creek Trail in Los Gatos.
Policy CI 5.4: Pursue other potential rights-of-way such as Santa Clara Valley
Water District and utility easements for bicycle, pedestrian, and/or equestrian
trail development.
Policy CI 5.5: Promote safer and more direct connections between pedestrian
and bicycle generators (i.e. schools, library, trails, parks, the Village, and other
non-residential uses).
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying Greenhouse
Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission
Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures," August, 2010.
Personal communication with Franziska Church, Senior Associate, Fehr and
Peers, April 15, 2020.
71
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-8
112,553,206 miles
7.06 miles
3.82 miles
10.88 miles
0.85
958,199 miles
328.5 MTCO 2 eEmissions reductions
Miles of new Class I bike lanes
New bike lanes per square mile
Calculation
Miles of new Class II bike lanes
Total miles new bike lanes
VMT generated by targeted population segments
Reduction in local VMT
2030
72
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-9
Action
Target
Related GP Policies
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-16 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
4,782,902 miles
1.0%
47,829 miles
GHG emissions reductions 16 MTCO 2 e
WALKING
LCT-3
1% reduction in VMT for vehicle trips that start and end in Saratoga by 2030.
Policy CI 5.1: Develop and maintain a Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan,
which will outline policies and improvements to streets, trails and pathways
to create a safe way for people of all ages to bike and walk on a daily basis.
Policy CI 5.2: Integrate the City’s bikeway and walkway system with those of
adjacent communities, where economically feasible.
Policy CI 5.3: Pursue the expansion and continuation of the multi-use path
along the Union Pacific Railroad alignment (Joe’s trail) east of Saratoga
Avenue and west of Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road that will link the Stevens Creek
Recreational Trail in Cupertino with the Los Gatos Creek Trail in Los Gatos.
Policy CI 5.4: Pursue other potential rights-of-way such as Santa Clara Valley
Water District and utility easements for bicycle, pedestrian, and/or
equestrian trail development.
Policy CI 5.5: Promote safer and more direct connections between pedestrian
and bicycle generators (i.e. schools, library, trails, parks, the Village, and
other non-residential uses).
Passenger vehicle trips starting and ending in Saratoga
% decrease in VMT due to pedestrian improvements
Annual decrease in VMT
Encourage walking as an alternative to vehicular travel. Establish and
maintain a system of pedestrian facilities that are consistent with the City's
General Plan, Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, and Complete Streets
policies.
Studies cited by CAPCOA show pedestrian network improvements can reduce
VMT 1-2% (CAPCOA SDT-1). We apply this to passenger vehicle trips that start
and end in Saratoga and assume a 1% reduction 2030.
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying
Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to
Assess Emission Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures,"
August, 2010.
Bay Area Air Quality Management District Vehicle Miles Traveled Data Portal,
http://capvmt.us-west-2.elasticbeanstalk.com/data
Calculation
2030
73
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-10
Program Description
Target
GP Related Policies
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-36.4 2030
Sources
Personal communication with Corey Dodge, Program Coordinator, Bay Area
Metro, April 2, 2020.
EMPLOYEE TRIP REDUCTION
LCT-4
SB 1339 requires employers with 50 or more employees within the Bay Area
Air Quality Management District’s geographic boundaries to offer their
employees specific alternative commute incentives, including the option to
pay for their transit or vanpooling with pre-tax dollars, a subsidy to reduce
or cover the employee’s transit or vanpool costs, or free or low-cost bus,
shuttle or vanpool service operated by or for the employer.
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying
Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to
Assess Emission Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures,"
August, 2010.
Reduce vehicle miles traveled commuting to work through the following
actions:
1. Work with Santa Clara VTA and the Bay Area Air Quality Management
District (BAAQMD) to promote transportation demand programs to local
employers, such as rideshare matching programs, vanpool incentive
programs, emergency ride home programs, telecommuting, transit use
discounts and subsidies, showers and changing facilities, bicycle racks
and lockers, and other incentives to use transportation other than single
occupant vehicles.
2. Embark on an outreach and educational campaign to encourage
employees to reduce vehicle trips.
Methodology
CAPCOA Measure TRT-1. Assuming a suburban center and 100% of
employees are eligible for incentives, VMT reduction is 5.4%. Measure
assumes the employer support program will include carpooling, ride-
matching, preferential carpool parking, flexible work schedules for
carpools, vanpool assistance, bicycle parking, showers, and locker
100% of covered employers provide an employee trip reduction program.
MTC identifies 35 businesses with 50 or more employees in Saratoga. 13 of
these businesses were unregistered as of April 2020. There were 592
estimated employees associated with 8 of the 13 non-registered employers.
We conservatively assume the other 5 employees have the minimum of 50
employees. We assume all of these employers participate in the program by
2030. We assume 240 work days per year.
Policy CI 5.7: Develop a set of practical and realistic transportation
demand management (TDM) measures that can be used by employers in the
City to reduce the number of single-occupant vehicle trips. These measures
would encourage ride-sharing and transit alternatives.
74
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-11
Action
Target
Related GP Policies
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-244.9 2030
Methodology
Sources
138,149 miles
312 MTCO 2e
50%
50%
67 MTCO 2e
245 MTCO 2e
CARB adopted the Innovative Clean Transit (ICT) Rule in December 2018.
This rule outlines a transition of California transit agencies to a zero
emission fleet by 2040. 100% of transit agencies' bus purchases must be
zero emission beginning in 2029. VTA's Vehicle Replacement Plan identifies
purchases that will achieve the ICT zero emission fleet mandate in 2040.
We assume 50% of VTA's vehicle fleet will be electric by 2030.
Transit miles, BAU
Emissions BAU
Calculation
2030
Percentage of renewable Diesel VMT
Percentage of electric bus VMT
Tailpipe emissions
GHG emissions reductions
PUBLIC TRANSIT
LCT-5
Support and promote public transit by taking the following actions:
1.W ork with Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to
maximize ridership through expansion and/or improvement of transit
routes, schedule, and stops.
2.Encourage VTA to use renewable diesel as a transition fuel and to
purchase electric buses whenever replacing existing buses serving
Saratoga.
VTA lines 26, 37, 53, 57 and 58 travel approximately 138,149 miles each
year within Saratoga's jurisdictional boundary.
Policy CI 4.1: Coordinate with the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to
improve transit infrastructure, transit stop amenities, service range and
frequency and access in the City.
Policy CI 4.2: Install transit improvements (such as shelters, benches, and
schedules) to improve service, increase safety, and maintain traffic flow
on streets serving as transit routes.
50% of buses serving Saratoga are electric and the remaining buses use
renewable diesel by 2030.
75
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-12
Action
Target
Related GP Policies
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-188.3 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
Transportation Authority of Marin
Average one way school trip lengths in Marin County are 1.7 miles for
elementary and middle schools and 2.3 miles for high schools. We assume
s imilar transportation mode rates and trip lengths for Saratoga schools.
Policy CI 4.3: Encourage public school districts, private schools, recreation
groups and other operators to develop a local bus system and to expand ride-
sharing activities that will help to reduce school-generated vehicle traffic in
neighborhoods and on City streets. Bussing should be one of the first measures
considered, along with walking and biking, to reduce school generated traffic
before substantial roadway capacity enhancements are implemented.
Policy CI 5.6: Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to all public and private
schools to enhance safety.
Policy CI.8.1: Promote Safe Routes to Schools programs for all public and
private schools serving the City.
Policy CI.8.2: Prioritize bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements in street
modification projects that affect school travel routes to enhance safe school
access.
Policy CI.8.3: Support education programs that promote safe walking and
bicycling to schools.
greatschools.org
To demonstrate the benefits of providing Safe Routes to Schools, the Marin
County Bicycle Coalition recruited nine pilot schools in four different
geographic locations. Initial surveys reported that 62% of the students were
arriving by car, with only 14% walking, 7% biking to school, 11% carpool, and
6% arriving by bus. Every school in the pilot program held periodic Walk and
Bike to School Days and participated in the Frequent Rider Miles contest, which
rewarded children who came to school walking, biking, by carpool or bus.
At the end of the pilot program, the participating schools experienced a 57%
increase in the number of children walking and biking and a 29% decrease in
the number of children arriving alone in a car.
SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL
LCT-6
Support Safe Routes to School and strive to increase bicycling, walking,
carpooling, and taking public transit to school.
1. Promote school and student participation by encouraging schools to
implement and/or expand Safe Routes to school programs.
2. Identify issues associated with unsafe bicycle and pedestrian facilities
between neighborhoods and schools, apply for Safe Routes to School grants,
and execute plans to improve pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
29% decrease in number of children arriving to school by car.
Safe Routes to School Marin County,
http://www.saferoutestoschools.org/history.html#success
76
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-13
2,377
761
1,371
1.7 miles
1.7 miles
2.3 miles
62%
29%
549,405 miles
Emissions reductions 188.3 MTCO 2 e
Number of students in Saratoga elementary schools
Number of students in Saratoga middle school
Number of students in Saratoga high school
Average trip length elementary school student
Calculation
2030
Average trip length high school student
Percent of student estimated to drive to school
VMT avoided
Average trip length middle school student
Potential percent decrease in students driving to school
77
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-14
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-43.3 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
9,780 gallons
87 MTCO 2
50%
43.3 MTCO 2e
City vehicle fleet gasoline consumption
City fleet tailpipe emissions
Emissions reductions
Fuel reduction
ZERO AND LOW EMMISION CITY VEHICLES
LCT-8
Purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles for the City fleet whenever
feasible, and when not, the most fuel-efficient models available. Promote
City adoption and procurement of zero-emission vehicles and charging
infrastructure to the public.
2030
Calculation
50% decrease in gasoline consumption for City vehicles by 2030.
As vehicles are replaced, there will be opportunities to purchase/lease
electric vehicles or improve vehicle fuel efficiency with similar models.
For City electric vehicles, we assume EVs are powered with SVCE electricity
and therefore produce no emissions.
City of Saratoga
78
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-15
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-5 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
830 gallons
100%
9 MTCO 2e
3 MTCO 2e
5 MTCO 2e
Use low-carbon fuel such as renewable diesel as a transition fuel in the City's
fleet and encourage the City's service providers to do the same.
100% of diesel use is replaced with renewable diesel by 2030.
City fleet diesel consumption
Renewable diesel percentage
Emissions from diesel fuel
Emissions from renewable diesel fuel
Emissions reductions
City of Saratoga
http://www.nexgenfuel.com/fleets-commercial-use/
Calculation
2030
LOW CARBON FUELS
LCT-9
Emission factor for renewable diesel derived from data from Nexgen Fuel.
79
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-16
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-2.3 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
56
9.7 miles
130,953 miles
5.2%
6,810 miles
2.3 MTCO 2e
We assume City of Saratoga commute VMT is similar to average daily VMT of
Saratoga employees. We also assume an average of 240 work days for a City
employee.
Estimated daily VMT per employee
Reduction in VMT
The City of Saratoga implemented one of the required four commuter benefit
options in 2014, specifically the Alternative Commuter Benefit option, which
consists of one required primary measure, plus two required secondary
measures from a pre–approved list. The City of Saratoga qualifies for the
primary measure with its 9/80 compressed workweek schedule and the two
secondary measures: secure, on-site bicycle parking; and showers and lockers
for employees.
Staff are encouraged to take public transportation or bicycle ride to work. The
City provides bicycle racks near the Warner Hutton House and the Recreation
Department. Showers and lockers are also available for employees at City Hall
and the Corporation Yard.
CITY EMPLOYEE COMMUTE
LCT-10
Provide City employees with incentives to use alternatives to single occupant
auto commuting, such as free electric vehicle charging, transit subsidies,
bicycle facilities, ridesharing services, flexible schedules, and telecommuting
when practical.
Estimated annual VMT for City employees
This measure assumes the City will augment its commuter benefits to include
actions such as: providing free charging for EV s at the Civic Center; providing
transit subsidies; and encouraging telecommuting.
CAPCOA Measure TRT-1. Assuming a suburban center and 100% of employees
are eligible for incentives, VMT reduction is 5.4%.
5% reduction in city employee commute VMT.
VMT avoided
Emissions reduction (MTCO2e)
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying Greenhouse
Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission
Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures," August, 2010.
Calculation
Number of City employees
2030
80
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-17
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-3,651.2
Methodology
Sources
68,890,936 kWh
73,392,598 kWh
142,283,534 kWh
33,558,163 kWh
105,246,159 kWh
3,479,212 kWh
36,355,222 kWh
GHG emissions reductions 3,651.2 MTCO 2e
100% GHG-free electricity from SVCE through 2030.
Electricity saved from other measures
GHG-FREE ELECTRICITY
RE-1
Support SVCE in the continued delivery of 100% GHG-free electricity.
2030
2030
As of October 2018, the territory-wide opt-out rate for Silicon Valley
Clean Energy was 3.2 percent. This opt-out rate is assumed for Saratoga
customers and is applied to the overall PG&E load.
https://www.svcleanenergy.org/
Calculation
Additional SVCE electricity use
SVCE provides 100% GHG-free electricity to its customers. SVCE began
serving Saratoga customers in April 2017.
Future SVCE electricity use
SVCE electricity use, BAU
Total SVCE and PG&E electricity use, BAU
Future PG&E electricity use
PG&E electricity use, BAU
81
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-18
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-1,528.1 2030
Methodology
Sources
2,903 KW DC
1,452 KW DC
15,968 KW DC
27,364,074 kWh
GHG emissions reductions 1,528.1 MTCO 2e
RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
RE-2
Accelerate installation of solar and other renewable energy installations and
energy storage systems at residential and commercial buildings and sites, and at
community facilities.
1. Provide solar permit streamlining and reduce or eliminate fees, as feasible.
2. Amend building codes, development codes, design guidelines, and zoning
ordinances, as necessary, to facilitate small, medium, and large-scale solar
installations.
3. Encourage installation of solar panels on rooftops and over parking areas on
commercial projects, schools, and residential developments.
4. Identify and promote financing and loan programs for residential and non-
residential solar projects.
5. Encourage installation of battery storage in conjunction with renewable
energy generation projects.
According to Project Sunroof, 94% of Saratoga buildings have roofs that are solar-
viable. These 10,300 roofs have the capacity for 228 MW DC and could generate
327,000,000 kWh per year, which is more than the 139,488,000 kWh consumed in
Saratoga in 2017. Project Sunroof estimates there are 1,400 existing solar
installations in Saratoga. As of the end of 2017, there were 1,382 installed
residential PV systems in Saratoga according to California Solar Statistics.
1,452 KW DC distributed solar capacity added each year on average.
An average of 1,223 KW DC has been installed in Saratoga each year since 2012,
excluding industrial installations. We assume new distributed solar capacity will
be added at the same rate as 2018-2019 through 2030, or 1,452 KW DC each year.
California Distributed Generation Statistics, "NEM Currently Interconnected Data
Set," https://www.californiadgstats.ca.gov/downloads/, as of January 31, 2020.
Project Sunroof, https://www.google.com/get/sunroof/data-
explorer/place/ChIJRf47R3CahYARV2ndbPAFwMk/, accessed March 12, 2020.
Calculation
Additional electricity produced by distributed PV
2030
Solar capacity added 2018-2019
Average solar added annually
Additional solar 2020-2030
82
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-19
Action
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-16.6 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
660,104 kWh
165,123 kWh
494,981 kWh
16.6 MTCO 2 e
Remaining electricity to be purchased from SVCE
Reduction in GHG emissions
City of Saratoga PG&E Bills
Calculation
Government operations electricity consumption in 2017
Electricity emissions reduced through other measures
2030
Purchase remaining electricity from SVCE.
MUNICIPAL 100% GHG-FREE ELECTRICITY
RE-5
Continue to purchase SVCE 100% GHG-free energy for all facilities.
83
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-20
Action
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-2,350.4
Sources
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying Greenhouse
Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission
Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures," August, 2010.
CAPCOA Measure BE-1 used for estimating non-residential building electricity
savings subject to Municipal Code Section 16-47.040.
The City adopted a reach code in December 2019 that requires all new
residential and non-residential buildings to use electric heat pump technology
for their space and water heating. Natural gas is permitted as a fuel source for
clothes drying, food cooking, and fireplaces. However, buildings using natural
gas appliances must also be “electric-ready,” meaning that the location of a
natural gas appliance is capable of supporting an electric appliance in the
future.
Methodology and
Assumptions
Replacing residential space and water systems in Climate Zone 4 that use
natural gas with systems that use heat pumps and electricity reduces emissions
by approximately 95% (derived from CRASS, Tables 2-9 and 2-25). We assume
the same emissions reduction for electrifying non-residential space heating
systems.
An estimated 88% of new homes use natural gas for ranges and ovens and 58%
use natural gas for dryers (CRASS, Table 2-22). We assume the ordinance will
reduce these numbers by half.
An estimated 97% of homes in climate zone 4 use natural gas for primary space
heating and 91% use natural gas for water heating (CRASS, Table 2-25). We
assume the ordinance reduces these numbers by 100%. Electricity used to
power these systems is regulated under Title 24, which requires solar energy to
supply energy requirements.
2009 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study (CRASS), Volume 2,
Tables 2-6, 2-9, 2-22 and 2-25.
http://www.energy.ca.gov/2010publications/CEC-200-2010-004/CEC-200-2010-
004-V2.PDF
California Energy Commission, California Commercial End-Use Survey (March
2006), https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/2006publications/CEC-400-2006-005/CEC-
400-2006-005.PDF
GREEN BUILDING REACH CODE
EE-1
Implement the City's green building ordinance that requires all new residential
and non-residential buildings to use electric heat pump technology for their
space and water heating and requires natural gas appliances, if installed, to be
electric-ready. Implement Municipal Code Section 16-47.040 which requires
new commercial buildings to exceed Title 24 energy efficiency requirements by
2030
84
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-21
Residential
787 units
50%
160 therms
195 therms
35 therms
27 therms
279,989 therms
268 kWh
549 kWh
218,032 kWh
1,477.0 MTCO 2e
Commercial
172,776 therms
95%
873.0 MTCO2e
15 %
New construction electricity use, BAU 6,464,910 kWh
New construction electricity use, after Title 24 4,045,094 kWh
Additional reduction in electricity use 10,922 kWh
GHG emissions reductions from reduced electricity use 0.4 MTCO2e
GHG emissions reductions 873.4 MTCO2e
Estimated natural gas use for space heating, per housing unit
Estimated electricity use for cooktop and range
Estimated natural gas use for water heating, per housing unit
GHG emissions reductions
New construction natural gas use 2020-2030, BAU, for heating, cooling, and
water heating
Total electricity used for electrified appliances
Estimated natural gas use for clothes dryer
Total natural gas reduced for appliances and heating systems
GHG emissions reductions from reduced natural gas use
Estimated electricity use for clothes dryer
Calculation
2030
Estimated reduction in emissions after adjusting for additional electricity use
2030
Reduction in appliances that use natural gas
Estimated annual natural gas use for cooktop and range
New housing units, 2020-2030
Percent over Title 24 Energy Requirements
85
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-22
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-3,410.8 2030
Methodology
Electricity consumption declined 9% between 2005 and 2017 (including electricity
generated by distributed PV), or an average of 0.8% per year in Saratoga. Natural
gas consumption declined 14% between 2005 and 2017 in Saratoga, or an average
of 1.1% per year.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
EE-2
We are forecasting an annual electricity savings of 0.5% and an annual natural gas
savings of 0.5% based on the following:
Promote and expand participation in residential and commercial energy efficiency
and electrification programs.
1. Work with organizations and agencies such as Silicon Valley Clean Energy and
PG&E to promote and implement energy efficiency and electrification programs and
actions.
2. Promote utility, state, and federal rebate, incentive, financing, and loan programs.
In order to avoid double counting, we exclude energy consumed by commercial
buildings that are expected to be redeveloped under General Plan full build-out.
This includes 311,870 sq. ft. of existing commercial buildings and 51,205 sq. ft. of
existing office use. We assume 400 sq. ft. per employee for commercial use and 250
sq. ft. per employee for office use. We assume one-half of this redevelopment will
occur by 2030.
The National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency states among its key findings
"consistently funded, well-designed programs are cutting annual savings for a given
program year of 0.15 to 1 percent of energy sales."
Silicon Valley Clean Energy's Implementation Plan states "With regard to SVCEA’s
anticipated energy efficiency savings, a reasonable baseline assumption (for
efficiency savings related to the demand-side portion of the SVCE resource plan)
appears to be steady growth towards 0.5 percent of SVCEA’s projected energy sales
by 2024. These savings would be in addition to the savings achieved by PG&E
administered programs. "
Electricity and natural gas consumption is reduced an average of 0.5% per year
between 2017 and 2030.
The American Council for an Energy-Efficiency Economy (ACEE) reports for states
already operating substantial energy efficiency programs, energy efficiency goals of
one percent, as a percentage of energy sales, is a reasonable level to target.
86
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-23
Sources
139,487,797 kWh
1,630,724 kWh
660,104 kWh
1,025,191 kWh
0.5%
8,851,166 kWh
8,099,811 therms
36,717 therms
11,882 therms
0.5%
523,329 therms
GHG emissions reductions 3,410.8 MTCO 2e
Less electricity used in government operations
Less electricity savings from Lighting Efficiency Act
Less natural gas used in government operations
Less estimated natural gas used in redeveloped commercial sites
National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency, July 2006, Section 6: Energy Efficiency
Program Best Practices (pages 5-6).
Energy Efficiency Resource Standards: Experience and Recommendations, Steve
Nadel, March 2006 ACEEE Report E063 (pages 28-30).
Silicon Valley Clean Energy Community Choice Aggregation Implementation Plan and
Statement of Intent, July 2016.
Personal communication with Heather Bradley, M-Group, 5/13/20.
Calculation
Natural gas savings less government use
Residential and commercial electricity use, 2017
Residential and commercial natural gas use, 2017
2030
Annual reduction in electricity consumption
Annual reduction in natural gas consumption
Electricity savings
Less estimated electricity used in redeveloped commercial sites
87
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-24
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-7.6 2030
Methodology
198
Annual electricity consumption 150,468 kWh
Electricity reduction 50%
Electricity savings 75,234 kWh
7.6 MTCO 2 eReduction in electricity emissions
As of March 2020, there were 111 high pressure sodium and 11 mercury
vapor streetlights left to be converted to LED.
City of Saratoga PG&E Bills
Calculation
2030
Number of streetlights to be converted to LED
PG&E Electric Schedule LS-1, Cal. P.U.C. Sheet No. 45482-E
PG&E Electric Schedule LS-2, Cal. P.U.C. Sheet No. 33883-E
Sources
Replace energy-inefficient street, parking lot and other municipal outdoor
lights with LED lights.
Replace all streetlights with LED lamps.
The City has converted its 13 traffic signals and 95 streetlights in Saratoga
Village to LED. As of December 2017, 155 of PG&E and City-owned streetlights
had been converted to LED, leaving 180 high pressure sodium and 18
mercury vapor streetlights. An analysis of PG&E bills and tariff schedule
shows these 198 streetlights annually use 150,468 kWh. Converting to LED
can reduce electricity consumption by 50% or more.
PUBLIC LIGHTING
EE-3
88
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-25
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-15.6
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
449,443 kWh
11,882 therms
20 %
89,889 kWh
Annual natural gas savings 2,376 therms
GHG emissions reductions 15.6 MTCO 2e
Annual electricity savings
We assume the City can reduce energy use 20% through upgrade of
remaining HVAC systems, continued upgrade to LED lights, installation of
energy management systems, and potential installation of solar hot water
heater and/or heat pump system.
2030
In 2014, the City installed a cool roof at the Joan Pisani Community Center,
which reflects the sun’s energy back to the sky instead of allowing it to
enter the building as heat. The cool roof was expected to cool the
building’s roof by an average of 20 to 30 degrees, reducing the need for
costly air conditioning use. Benefits from reduced electricity use are
reflected in the baseline inventory for 2017. The City has also installed
cool roofs on the theater and City Hall buildings.
By 2009, the City had upgraded all lights in City buildings to more efficient
T8 lights. As these burn out, the City is replacing them with LED lights.
2030
Annual electricity use in buildings
Annual natural gas use in buildings
Energy savings
MUNICIPAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY AUDIT AND RETROFITS
Identify and implement energy efficiency projects in municipal buildings
and facilities and electrification of existing building systems and
equipment that use natural gas.
Calculation
EE-4
Complete remaining viable energy efficiency projects identified in the 2009
Siemens Clean Energy Project Preliminary Study, including: upgrade of
existing interior fluorescent lighting to LED lighting and installation of
occupancy room sensors; upgrade existing HVAC systems and other
equipment to more efficient units; installation of solar thermal heating
systems; installation of energy management systems to monitor and
optimize heating and cooling levels; and installation of PC power
management system.
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc., "Clean Energy Project Preliminary
Study," September 23, 2009.
Reduce energy use in municipal buildings and facilities 20% by 2030.
89
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-26
Action
Target
GP Related Policies
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-44.0 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
338 MTCO 2 e
1.0%
Annual decrease in water emissions 3.4 MTCO 2 e
GHG emissions reduction 44.0 MTCO 2 e
WATER CONSERVATION
WC-1
Reduce indoor and outdoor water use in residential and commercial
buildings and landscaping.
1. Work with San Jose Water Company (SJWC), Valley Water, and other
organizations to promote water conservation programs and incentives.
2. Educate residents and businesses about local and State laws
requiring retrofit of non-compliant plumbing fixtures during
remodeling and at resale.
3. Ensure all projects requiring building permits, plan check, or design
review comply with State and SJWC regulations.
4. Encourage the installation of greywater and rainwater collection
systems and the use of recycled water where available.
Saratoga water consumption declined from 1,547 million gallons (MG)
per year in 2005 to 1,128 MG, a decrease of 27%, or approximately
1.9% per year. We conservatively assume a 1% annual reduction in
water consumption for years 2018-2030.
Personal Communication with Colby Sneed, Director of Operations, San
Jose Water Company.
Policy OSC-11.1: Implement water conservation provisions of the San
Jose Water Company’s Urban Water Management Plan.
Reduce water consumption 1% each year.
Calculation
Water emissions, 2017
Annual decrease in water consumption
2030
90
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-27
Action
Target
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-247.8 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
0.0354 MTCO 2
700
10
7,000
GHG emissions reduction from sequestration 247.8 MTCO 2 e
CITY FOREST
CS-1
Increase carbon sequestration and improve air quality and natural cooling
through increasing tree cover in Saratoga.
1. Plant additional trees on City-owned land, including public parks, open space,
medians, and rights of way, where feasible.
2. Review parking lot landscape standards to maximize tree cover, shade, size,
growth, and sequestration potential.
3. Regulate and minimize removal of large trees and require planting of
replacement trees.
4. Require that the site planning, construction and maintenance of new
development preserve existing healthy trees and native vegetation on site to the
maximum extent feasible. Replace trees and vegetation not able to be saved
where apllicable.
5. Encourage community members to plant trees on private land. Provide
reduced-cost trees to the public through a bulk purchasing program.
6. Provide information to the public, including landscape companies, gardeners
and nurseries, on carbon sequestration rates, drought tolerance, and fire
resistance of different tree species.
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying Greenhouse
Gas Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission
Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures," August, 2010.
Sequestration: CAPCOA Measure V-1. Assumed default annual sequestration rate
of .0354 MTCO2 accumulation per tree per year and an active growing period of
20 years. Thereafter, the accumulation of carbon in biomass slows with age, and
will be completely offset by losses from clipping, pruning, and occasional death.
In 2016, the City challenged residents to plant 2,020 trees by the year 2020 after
Saratoga lost a significant number of trees due to the drought. To reach this goal,
the City partnered with Our City Forest to offer residents discounted trees. By
May 2019, the City and community planted more than 2,100 trees, or
approximately 700 trees per year. We assume the City can maintain this rate by
continuing the program through 2030.
Plant 700 net new trees each year between 2020 and 2030.
Calculation
Annual sequestration rate per tree
Number of net new trees planted each year
Number of years
2030
Number of trees planted over period in active growing stage in inventory year
91
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-28
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-13,638.6 2030
Program Description
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
Passenger VMT, BAU 163,190,068 VMT
138,836,253 VMT
Commercial VMT, BAU 2,338,366 VMT
Emissions, BAU 50,658 MTCO 2 e
Emissions with regulations 37,019 MTCO 2 e
Reduction in emissions 13,639 MTCO 2 e
LIGHT AND HEAVY-DUTY FLEET REGULATIONS
State Action
Current federal and State regulations and standards will reduce transportation
emissions from the light and heavy duty fleet. These include:
2. Advanced Clean Cars Program which will reduce greenhouse gas and smog
emissions for light-duty vehicles sold between 2017 and 2025. New automobiles
will emit 34 percent fewer GHG emissions and 75 percent fewer smog-forming
emissions.
California Air Resources Board, EMFAC2017 v.1.0.2.
1. Pavley Standards which increase fuel economy standards for light-duty vehicles
for 2009-2016 model years.
3. ARB Tractor -Trailer Greenhouse Gas Regulations which accelerate the use of low
rolling resistance tires and aerodynamic fairing to reduce GHG emissions in the
heavy-duty truck fleet.
4. Heavy Duty GHG Emissions Standards (Phase One) which establish GHG and fuel
efficiency standards for medium duty and heavy duty engines and vehicles for 2014-
2018 model years.
Passenger VMT, net reductions from other measures
2030
Transportation emissions estimated using EMFAC 2017. Emission factors
have been adjusted to account for the SAFE Vehicle Rule Part One and the
Final SAFE Rule.
Calculation
California Air Resources Board, EMFAC2014 Volume III - Technical Documentation,
v1.0.7, May 12, 2015
California Air Resources Board, "EMFAC Off-Model Adjustment Factors for Carbon
Dioxide (CO2 ) Emissions to Account for the SAFE Vehicle Rule Part One and the Final
SAFE Rule," June 26, 2020,
https://ww3.arb.ca.gov/msei/emfac_off_model_co2_adjustment_factors_06262020-
final.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
92
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-29
Program Description
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-1,528.6
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
155,371,327 kWh
2,226,555 kWh
28,911,793 kWh
3,479,212 kWh
13,087,793 kWh
3,628 MTCO2e
2,100 MTCO2e
1,528.6 MTCO2e
California Public Utilities Code Section 454.52 requires each load-serving entity
to procure at least 50 percent eligible renewable energy resources by 2030 and
to meet the economywide reductions of 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.
Electricity saved through local actions
Net electricity use (PG&E)
RENEWABLE PORTFOLIO STANDARD
The CPUC calculator version 3c provides projected emission factors for 2020.
That number is higher than PG&E's 2017 emission factor. We therefore assume
the same 2017 PG&E emission factor for 2020. For 2030, the CPUC has set
electric sector GHG reductions at a level that represents a 50% reduction from
2015 levels. We therefore apply a 50% reduction to PG&E and DA 2015 emission
factors to forecast 2030 emission factors.
2030
2030
Electricity use, BAU
This State Action assumes PG&E and Direct Access entities will meet the
Renewable Portfolio Standard requirements and that these entities will carry the
same share of the community's electricity load as in 2016. GHG reductions
related to MCE's GHG reduction policies are quantified separately as a local
action.
GHG Calculator, version 3c_Oct2010.
Calculation
Established in 2002 in Senate Bill 1078, the Renewable Portfolio Standard
program requires electricity providers to increase the portion of energy that
comes from eligible renewable sources, including solar, wind, small
hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass and biowaste, to 20 percent by 2010 and to
33 percent by 2020. Senate Bill 350, passed in September of 2015, increases the
renewable requirement to 50 percent by the end of 2030. Senate Bill 100, passed
in September 2018, accelerated the RPS standard to 60 percent by 2030 and zero-
carbon by 2045.
State Action
PG&E, "Greenhouse Gas Emission Factors: Guidance for PG&E Customers,"
November 2015,
https://www.pge.com/includes/docs/pdfs/shared/environment/calculator/pge_
ghg_emission_factor_info_sheet.pdf
California Public Utilities Commission "CPUC Adopts Groundbreaking Path to
Reduce Greenhouse Gases in Electric Sector," Press Release Docket #: R.16-02-
007, Feb. 8, 2018.
GHG emission reductions
Net electricity use (DA)
Electricity saved through other State actions
Electricity emissions, BAU
Electricity emissions w/RPS
93
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-30
Program Description
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-339.7
Methodology and
Assumptions
TITLE 24
Estimated commercial energy use is based on annual electricity and natural gas
intensities for all commercial buildings in the PG&E service area as reported in the
California Commercial End-Use Survey. Only end uses covered by Title 24 (heating,
cooling, ventilation, water heating and, after 2019, lighting) are included in the
analysis.
State Action
2030
The California Energy Commission (CEC) promotes energy efficiency and conservation
by setting the State’s building efficiency standards. Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations consists of regulations that cover the structural, electrical, mechanical,
and plumbing system of every building constructed or altered after 1978. The
building energy efficiency standards are updated on an approximate three-year cycle,
and each cycle imposes increasingly higher demands on energy efficiency and
conservation. The California Energy Commission's 2007 Integrated Policy Report
established the goal that new building standards achieve "net zero energy" levels by
2020 for residences and by 2030 for commercial buildings.
Estimated energy reductions for the 2016 and 2019 building codes based on
information provided by the California Energy Commission. CAPCOA Measure BE-1
used for estimating building energy savings. We assume all residential electricity use
subject to Title 24 is offset by mandatory solar installation beginning with the 2019
building code.
Estimated residential energy use assumes 97% of homes use natural gas for primary
space heating and 91% for water heating prior to 2020. Beginning in 2020, we
a ssume 100% of homes use electricity for water heating and primary space heating
due to the City's reach code ordinance adopted in December 2019 that requires all
new residential buildings to use electric heat pump technology for their space and
water heating. We assume all new homes install central air conditioning and outdoor
lighting. Only end uses covered by Title 24 are included in the analysis.
No natural gas consumption subject to Title 24 is assumed after 2020 due to City's
reach code ordinance adopted in December 2019 that requires all new non-
residential buildings to use electric heat pump technology for their space and water
heating.
94
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-31
Sources
California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, "Quantifying Greenhouse Gas
Mitigation Measures: A Resource for Local Government to Assess Emission
Reductions from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures," August, 2010.
California Energy Commission,
https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/title24/2019standards/documents/2018_Title_24_2019_B
uilding_Standards_FAQ.pdf
2009 California Residential Appliance Saturation Study (CRASS), Volume 2.
http://www.energy.ca.gov/2010publications/CEC-200-2010-004/CEC-200-2010-004-
V2.PDF
California Energy Commission, 2016 Energy Standards Overview (June 15, 2016),
https://www.lgc.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/2016-Energy-
Standards-Overview-California-Energy-Commission.pdf
City of Saratoga, Annual Housing Element Progress Report for 2019.
California Energy Commission, California Commercial End-Use Survey (March 2006),
https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/2006publications/CEC-400-2006-005/CEC-400-2006-
005.PDF
95
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-33
Reductions from Title 24 Upgrades Energy Savings
Electricity
Savings
Natural Gas
Savings
Electricity
Savings
Natural Gas
Savings
Residential New Construction 28%100%7%100%50%
Non-residential New Construction 5%30%30%50%50%
Projected Residential Development with Title 24 Energy Reductions
2018-2019 2020-2022 2023-2030
TOTAL through
2020
GHG
Reductions
through 2020
TOTAL through
2030
GHG Reductions
through 2030
New Residential (units)49 236 551 49 836
Electricity Use BAU, subject to Title 24 30,123 360,118 840,275 30,123 1,230,516
Electricity Use Savings 971 360,118 840,275 971 0 1,201,364 67.1
Natural Gas Use BAU 16,300 16,300 16,300
Natural Gas Use Savings 4,039 4,039 21 4,039 21.5
Projected Non-Residential Development with Title 24 Energy Reductions
2018-2019 2020-2022 2023-2030
TOTAL through
2020
GHG
Reductions
through 2020
TOTAL through
2030
GHG Reductions
through 2030
0 1,939,473 4,525,437 0 6,464,910
Electricity Use Savings 0 157,097 2,262,718 0 0 2,419,816 251.1
Electricity Use BAU, including redeveloped
commercial buildings, subject to Title 24
2016
Reductions
from 2013
Standards
(assumed for
development
after 2017)
Calculation
Projected average reduction
2023-2030 from 2017
baseline
Energy Savings for 2019 Code
(assumed for development 2020-
2023)
96
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-33
Reductions (MTCO2e)
-72.7
Methodology and
Assumptions
Sources
14,539,228 kWh
Commercial electricity use, 2017 43,753,568 kWh
12,644,781 kWh
2,275,186 kWh
Reduction in residential electricity use 781,484 kWh
189,672 kWh
54,036 kWh
72.7 MTCO 2eGHG emission reductions
Program Description AB 1109, the Lighting Efficiency and Toxic Reduction Act, tasks the
California Energy Commission (CEC) with reducing lighting energy usage in
indoor residences by no less than 50% from 2007 levels by 2018, as well
as requires a 25% reduction in indoor and outdoor commercial buildings
by the same date. To achieve these efficiency levels, the CEC applies its
existing appliance efficiency standards to include lighting products, as
well as requires minimum lumen/watt standards for different categories of
lighting products. The bill also expands existing incentives for energy
efficient lighting.
28.9% of nonresidential electricity is used for indoor lighting (California
Energy Commission 2006)
2030
Residences use 1,342 kWh for indoor lighting on average (U.S. Department
of Energy 2012)
Itron, Inc., "California Commercial End-Use Survey," California Energy
Commission, March 2006, Publication Number: CEC-400-2006-005, p. 186.
Accessed March 26, 2015.
Calculation
5.2% of nonresidential electricity is used for outdoor lighting (California
Energy Commission 2006)
Navigant Consulting, Inc., "2010 U.S. Lighting Market Characterization,"
U.S. Department of Energy, January 2012, p. 42. Accessed March 26, 2015.
<http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/publications/pdfs/ssl/2010-lmc-
final-jan-2012.pdf>
Commercial indoor lighting use, 2017
The CEC reports that between 2008 and 2010, interior residential lighting
electricity dropped 7%, commercial interior lighting electricity dropped
13%, and commercial outdoor lighting dropped 6 percent. We assume 1/8
of the remaining goal will be achieved between 2017 and 2018.
Commercial outdoor lighting use, 2017
LIGHTING EFFICIENCY AND TOXIC REDUCTION ACT
State Action
2030
Residential electricity indoor lighting use, 2017
Reduction in commercial outdoor lighting use
Reduction in commercial indoor lighting use
97
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan B-34
Reductions (MTCO2 e)
-3,853.1 2030
Methodology and
Assumptions
4,658.0 MTCO 2e
75%
1,164.5 MTCO 2e
5,017.6 MTCO 2e
GHG emissions reduction 3,853.1 MTCO 2e
Passed in 2016, SB 1383 establishes targets to achieve a 50% reduction in the level
of the statewide disposal of organic waste from the 2014 level by 2020 and a 75%
reduction by 2025. The law grants CalRecycle the regulatory authority required to
achieve the organic waste disposal reduction targets and establishes an additional
target that not less than 20% of currently disposed edible food is recovered for
human consumption by 2025. In 2022, CalRecycle may begin to issue penalties for
non-compliance. On January 1, 2024, the regulations may require local
jurisdictions to impose penalties for noncompliance on regulated entities subject
to their authority.
We assume a 75% reduction in organic waste from 2014 levels by 2030.
The State's Green Building Code (CALGreen) requires residential and non-residential
development projects to recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65% of the
nonhazardous construction and demolition waste. The City of Saratoga contracts
with Green Halo, a third party web-based data collection system, to document
construction waste diversion as required by the California Green Building Code.
ORGANIC WASTE REDUCTION
State Action
Program Description Passed in 2014, AB 1826 requires businesses to recycle their organic waste,
depending on the amount of waste they generate per week. Organic waste means
food waste, green waste, landscape and pruning waste, nonhazardous wood waste,
and food-soiled paper waste that is mixed in with food waste. The law phases in
mandatory recycling of commercial organics over time. In 2017, businesses that
generate 4 cubic yards of organic waste per week were required to arrange for
organic waste recycling services and divert all organic waste they produce. In 2019,
the law extended to businesses that generate 4 cubic yards or more of commercial
solid waste. The State law is intended to reduce statewide disposal of organic waste
by 50% by 2020. If that target is not met, the law will be extended to cover
businesses that generate 2 cubic yards or more of commercial solid waste.
2030
Calculation
Waste emissions, 2014
Reduction in waste emissions
Targeted GHG emissions
Waste emissions, 2017
98
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan C-1
APPENDIX C: GHG EMISSIONS REDUCTION TARGETS
The GHG emissions reduction targets established in this CAP align with the Statewide reduction goal to reduce
emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. In addition to this goal, the California Air Resources Board’s 2017 Scoping
Plan provides guidance to local governments on how to address State goals in local plans with per capita emissions
targets. As stated in the Scoping Plan (pages 99-100):
“CARB recommends statewide targets of no more than six metric tons CO2e per capita by 2030 and no more
than two metric tons CO2e per capita by 2050. The statewide per capita targets account for all emissions
sectors in the State, statewide population forecasts, and the statewide reductions necessary to achieve the
2030 statewide target under SB 32 and the longer term State emissions reduction goal of 80 percent below
1990 levels by 2050. The statewide per capita targets are also consistent with Executive Order S-3-05, B-30-
15, and the Under 2 MOU that California originated with Baden-Württemberg and has now been signed or
endorsed by 188 jurisdictions representing 39 countries and six continents… Since the statewide per capita
targets are based on the statewide GHG emissions inventory that includes all emissions sectors in the State,
it is appropriate for local jurisdictions to derive evidence-based local per capita goals based on local
emissions sectors and population projections that are consistent with the framework used to develop the
statewide per capita targets.”
Table C-1 shows the information provided in the Scoping Plan regarding statewide baseline (1990) and projected
(2030) emissions by sector.
TABLE C-1: ESTIMATED CHANGE IN STATEWIDE GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR (MMTCO2e)
Sector 1990 Emissions
(MMTCO2e)
2030 Projected Emissions
under 2017 Scoping Plan
(low end)
(MMTCO2e)
% Change
Transportation 152 103 -32%
Residential and Commercial 44 38 -14%
Industrial 98 83 -15%
Electric Power 3 8 267%
Recycling and Waste 7 8 14%
Agriculture 26 24 -8%
High GWP 108 30 -72%
Source: CARB, 2017 Scoping Plan, Table 3 , p. 31
In order to derive an appropriate local per capita target based on local emissions sectors, the project team estimated
1990 emissions for subcategories based on year 2000 emissions as reported in CARB’s California Greenhouse Gas
Inventory for 2000-2017. Table C-2 identifies the subcategories and emissions that are included in the Saratoga’s
Community-wide GHG Emissions Inventory to determine the local per capita target.
99
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan C-2
TABLE C-2: ESTIMATED GHG EMISSIONS BY SECTOR AND SUBCATEGORY (MMTCO2e)
Sector and Subcategory
Column A Column B Column C Column D
CA 1990
Emissions1
Applicable
Categories
for Saratoga
CAP
Change from
1990 Level to
Meet 2030
Target2
2030 Target
for Applicable
Categories for
Saratoga CAP3
Transportation 152 -32%
On-Road 139.11 139.11 94.59
Passenger Vehicles 105.74
Heavy Duty Vehicles 33.36
Ships & Commercial Boats 4.10
Aviation (Intrastate) 3.55
Rail 1.59
Off-Road 2.22 1.144 0.77
Unspecified 1.67
Commercial & Residential 44 -14%
Residential Fuel Use 30.19
Natural Gas 28.01 28.01 24.08
Other Fuels 1.41 1.41 1.21
Fugitive Emissions 0.78
Commercial Fuel Use 11.48
Natural Gas 10.06 10.06 8.65
Other Fuels 1.42
Commercial Cogeneration Heat Output 1.09
Other Commercial and Residential 1.24
Industrial 98 -15%
Refineries and Hydrogen Production 28.69
General Fuel Use 20.37
Natural Gas 16.92 16.92 14.38
Other Fuels 3.45
Oil & Gas Production & Processing 19.51
Fuel Use 17.64
Fugitive Emissions 1.88
Cement Plants 9.56
Clinker Production 5.55
Fuel Use 4.00
Cogeneration Heat Output 11.76
Other Fugitive and Process Emissions 8.10
Natural Gas Transmission & Distribution 3.54
Manufacturing 0.32
Wastewater Treatment 1.87 1.87 1.59
100
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan C-3
Sector and Subcategory
Column A Column B Column C Column D
CA 1990
Emissions1
Applicable
Categories
for Saratoga
CAP
Change from
1990 Level to
Meet 2030
Target2
2030 Target
for Applicable
Categories for
Saratoga CAP3
Other 2.36
Electric Power 108 -72%
Electricity Generation - In State 60.72 60.72 17.00
Natural Gas 52.45
Other Fuels 7.05
Fugitive and Process Emissions 1.21
Electricity Generation - Imports 47.28 47.28 13.24
Unspecified Imports 14.70
Specified Imports 32.59
Recycling & Waste 7 14%
Landfills 6.88 6.88 7.84
Composting 0.12
Agriculture 26 -8%
Livestock 16.05
Enteric Fermentation (Digestive Process) 8.28
Manure Management 7.77
Crop Growing & Harvesting 6.75
Fertilizers 5.25
Soil Preparation and Disturbances 1.44
Crop Residue Burning 0.07
General Fuel Use 3.20
Diesel 2.12
Natural Gas 0.82
Gasoline 0.26
Other Fuels 0.01
High-GWP 3 267%
Depleting Substance (ODS) Substitutes 2.66
Electricity Grid SF6 Losses 0.24
Semiconductor Manufacturing 0.10
TOTAL 438 339 -46% 183
1 Subcategory emissions are estimated by applying the proportionate share of year 2000 emissions as reported by CARB in the
California Greenhouse Gas Inventory for 2000-2017 – by Category as Defined in the 2008 Scoping Plan to 1990 emissions as
reported by sector in the 2017 Scoping Plan.
2 From Table C-1.
3 Derived by multiplying Column C by the applicable sector reduction in Column B.
4 Local emissions for the Off-Road category are adjusted to reflect only the categories that are included in the communitywide
GHG inventory.
101
City of Saratoga Climate Action Plan C-4
The projected statewide population that was used for the Scoping Plan is inferred by dividing total projected
emissions for 2030 (260 MMTCO2e) by the statewide per capita target (6 MTCO2e) for a population of 43,333,333.
The local per capita goal is calculated by dividing total projected emissions for the applicable Saratoga CAP categories
(183 MMTCO2e) by the statewide population. The local target for 2030 would therefore be 4.2 MTCO2e. However,
the California statewide population is expected to grow approximately 6.8% between 2017 and 2030, while the
Saratoga population is forecasted to increase 4.6%.12 Adjusting for the difference in population growth yields an
adjusted local per capita target for 2030 of 4.1 MTCO2e.
CARB recommends a statewide per capita target of 2 MTCO2e for 2050, which is one-third of the 2030 target. The
corresponding local target is therefore one-third of 4.1 MTCO2e, or 1.4 MTCO2e per capita in 2050.
CARB further recommends expressing GHG emissions reduction goals in mass emissions, per capita emissions, and
service population emissions. These are shown in Table C-3.
TABLE C-3: LOCAL EMISSION REDUCTION TARGETS PER 2017 SCOPING PLAN GUIDANCE
2030 2050
A Projected Population for Saratoga 32,792 33,922
B Projected Jobs for Saratoga 10,413 12,150
C Projected Service Population for Unincorporated Marin (A + B) 43,205 46,072
D Per Capita Target (MTCO2e) 4.1 1.4
E Mass Emissions Target (MTCO2e) (A x D) 134,447 47,491
F Per Service Population Target (MTCO2e) (E / C) 3.1 1.0
The emissions reductions in 2030 expected to be achieved through the implementation of this CAP exceed these
targets as follows:
Mass Emissions in 2030: 89,051 MTCO2e
Per Capita Emissions in 2030: 2.7 MTCO2e
Per Service Population Emissions in 2030: 2.1 MTCO2e
12 Statewide population growth is derived from CA Department of Finance, Table P-1: State Population Projections
(2010-2060), baseline 2019.
102
REPORT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION
Wildcat Road
Meeting Date:October 14, 2020
Application:PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
Address/APN:Wildcat Road / 517-22-108
Applicant / Property Owner:Samir and Alfa Savla
From:Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director
Report Prepared By:Christopher Riordan, Senior Planner
103
Report to the Planning Commission
Wildcat Road – Application # PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
October14, 2020
Page | 2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The applicant requests Design Review approval for a new 6,184 square foot two story single-
family residence with an 1,871 square foot basement on a 2.61-acre vacant site with a maximum
overall building height of 26 feet. The project will include a driveway with access to Piedmont
Road and a vehicle bridge to span Wildcat Creek. Thirty-eight (38) protected trees are proposed
for removal.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolution No. 20-016 approving the project subject to conditions of approval included in
Attachment 1.
Pursuant to City Code Sections 15-45.060(a)(3) and 15-45.060(a)(6), Design Review Approval by
the Planning Commission is required because the project includes a new structure over eighteen feet
in height with a cumulative floor area total in excess of 6,000 square feet.
PROJECT DATA
Gross/Net Site Area: 2.61 acres gross / 2.20 acres net (95,832 sq. ft)
Average Site Slope: 25.65 %
General Plan Designation: RVLD (Residential Very Low Density)
Zoning:R-1-40,000
Proposed Allowed/Required
Proposed Building Site Coverage
Residence/ Garage / Covered Porches
Driveway / Bridge
Walkways
Pool / Pool Decking
Total Site Coverage
4,150 sq. ft.
12,180 sq. ft.
690 sq. ft.
2,350 sq. ft.
19,370 sq. ft. (20.2%)
33,541 sq. ft. (35%)
Floor Area
Entry Level
Upper Level
Attached Garage
Basement (exempt)
Total Floor Area
3,131 sq. ft.
2,386 sq. ft.
667 sq. ft.
(1,871) sq. ft.
6,184 sq. ft.
6,200 sq. ft.
Height 26’26’
Setbacks
Front:
Left
Right
Rear
1st Floor 2nd Floor
349’- 0” 357’-0”
51’- 4.0” 67’-11”
74’-3.0” 77’-11”
148’-7.0” 164’-2.0”
1st Floor 2nd Floor
30’30’
20’25’
20’25’
50’ 60’
Grading Cut
2,240 CY
Fill
260 CY
Export
1,980 CY
No grading limit in the
R-1-40,000 zoning district
104
Report to the Planning Commission
Wildcat Road – Application # PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
October14, 2020
Page | 3
SITE CHARACTERISTICS AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Project History
On September 28, 2011, the Planning Commission approved a project for the subject vacant site
that was similar to the proposed project. That project included a two-story 6,018 square feet
“French Country” style single-family home with a 1,956 square foot basement and a new driveway
to Piedmont Road along the existing undeveloped Wildcat Road right-of-way. The project also
included a bridge across Wildcat Creek to provide vehicular access from the Wildcat Road right-of-
way to the site. A total of 26 protected trees were approved for removal. The previous owner did not
move forward with developing the site and the Design Review approval from the Planning
Commission expired.
Site Description
The project is located on a vacant 2.6-acre site located northwest of the intersection of Piedmont
Road and Wildcat Road (undeveloped) in the R-1-40,000 zoning district. The site is an
irregularly shaped flag lot bordered by single-family uses. Access is provided by a 40-foot wide
Wildcat Road right-of-way which forms the southern border of the site. A segment of Wildcat
Creek runs in an east/west direction along the sites southern border. Riparian and mixed
woodland with tree species associated with Wildcat Creek dominate the site. Trees include Coast
live oak, Valley oak, Sycamore, California bay laurel, and Coast redwood. The average slope is
25.6%. Existing vegetation screen views of neighboring properties.
Project Description
Site Access
Access to the project would be from Piedmont Road and would include the construction of a 15’
wide driveway within the Wildcat Road right-of-way. This driveway would lead to a proposed
bridge that would span Wildcat Creek to provide access to the project site. The “prefabricated
bridge” would be recycled from a railroad flatcar. Bridge plans and photo of a similar bridge are
included as Attachments 5 & 6.
Architecture/Design
The proposed residence would be located in the central portion of the site. Best described as “New-
Mediterranean” architectural style, the 26’ tall two-story residence would include a 3,131 square
foot first story and a 2,386 square foot second story. The project would also include a 667 square
foot three car garage and an 1,871 square foot basement that is not included in the sites allowable
floor area.
Exterior materials would include a clay “mission style” tile roof with exposed rafter tails, a cement
plaster exterior with a smooth trowel finish, pre-cast concrete window trim and sills, and thin cut
real stone “ledgestone” veneer at the entrance element and along the base of the front elevation.
The applicant has provided a color and materials board, which will be available for review at the
site visit. Below is a list of the proposed exterior materials.
105
Report to the Planning Commission
Wildcat Road – Application # PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
October14, 2020
Page | 4
Detail Colors and Materials
Exterior Tan Colored Integral Color Smooth Finish Cement Plaster
Windows Dark Brown Aluminum Clad Wood Windows
Trim Brown Colored Wood Stain Trim and Tan Colored Pre-Cast Concrete
Roof Clay Tile Roof – Monarch Madera Blend
Trees
The project arborist inventoried a total of 127 protected trees on site. It was determined by the
City Arborist that 38 protected trees including nine Coast live oaks, one Sycamore, seven
Eucalyptus, and one Coast Redwood in conflict with the project are recommended for removal.
All remaining protected trees would be fenced and preserved prior to building permit issuance
and throughout the duration of the project. Tree protection fencing is required to be installed
prior to the issuance of building permits. Details of the arborist’s findings and descriptions of the
trees to be removed and preserved are included in the Arborist Report (Attachment 2).
Landscaping
Formal landscaping will be concentrated in the vicinity of the proposed residence and will include
primarily drought tolerant shrubs, vines, flowering groundcovers, and grasses. New trees will
include Sycamore, Western rosebud, and Coast live oak. Paving for the entry way and patios will
include travertine tiles. The driveway will be made of asphalt with the exception of the area of the
drivewayat the firetruck turnaround and near the entrance to the garage being composed of concrete
pavers. The area of the site beyond the formal landscaping will remain in a natural state.
FINDINGS
The findings required for issuance of a Design Review Approval pursuant to City Code Section
Article 15-45.080 are set forth below and the Applicant has met the burden of proof to support
making all of those required findings:
a.Site development follows the natural contours of the site, minimizes grading, and is
appropriate given the property’s natural constraints.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the location of the residence would be in
an area of the site which is the most level with the least amount of slope and the driveway
has been designed to follow the natural contours of the site to minimize grading and steep
slopes. The majority (44%) of the proposed grading would be for the construction of the
driveway and bridge from Piedmont Road to the garage and to comply with Santa Clara
County Fire Department access requirements which include a firetruck turnaround and a
driveway with minimal slope. A total of 870 cubic yards (35%) of grading would be
required to construct the basement. The remaining grading of 530 cubic yards (21%) would
be construct the building pad and to level the area around the site for patios and walkway.
The proposed grading is appropriate given the property’s natural constraints and other than
the grading for the access drivewayand to level an area for construction of the residence, the
remaining area of the site will remain unchanged.
106
Report to the Planning Commission
Wildcat Road – Application # PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
October14, 2020
Page | 5
b.All protected trees shall be preserved, as provided in Article 15-50 (Tree Regulations). If
constraints exist on the property, the number of protected trees, heritage trees, and native
trees approved for removal shall be reduced to an absolute minimum. Removal of any
smaller oak trees deemed to be in good health by the City Arborist shall be minimized
using the criteria set forth in Section 15-50.080.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the project arborist inventoried 127
protected trees in the vicinity of the project which includes the driveway within the Wildcat
Road right-of-way. A total of 38 protected trees are recommended for removal by the City
Arborist and this number has been reduced to the minimum as their location conflicts with
the proposed driveway and residence. All remaining protected trees outside the area of
construction will be preserved. All remaining protected trees near the project would be
protected prior to building permit issuance and throughout the duration of the project. Tree
protection fencing is required to be installed prior to the issuance of building permits and
shall remain in place for the duration of the project.
c.The height of the structure, its location on the site, and its architectural elements are
designed to avoid unreasonable impacts to the privacy of adjoining properties and to
community viewsheds.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the project is a two-story residence
located at a low point on an existing vacant site within an area of dense trees with a rural
setting. The project area is surrounded by native, mature vegetation and would physically
not be visible from the majority of adjacent property owners. The location of the residence
would maximize privacy and preserve views of neighboring properties. The elevation of the
project site will be physically lower than neighboring residences thereby minimizing
unreasonable impact to the privacy of adjoining properties. There are no identified
community viewsheds in the vicinity of the project.
d.The overall mass and height of the structure, and its architectural elements are in scale
with the structure itself and with the neighborhood.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in the project is a two-story residence in a
neighborhood with both one and two-story structures, the project concentrates the massing
toward the center of the site with the height concentrated toward the middle of the building
footprint. The project includes architectural elements consistent with the ‘Neo-
Mediterranean style which are in scale with the structure and the neighborhood. The
proposed residence would not be visible from Piedmont Road and would be significantly
screened by mature trees and landscaping from property owners on Winn Road.
107
Report to the Planning Commission
Wildcat Road – Application # PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
October14, 2020
Page | 6
e.The landscape design minimizes hardscape in the front setback area and contains
elements that are complementary to the neighborhood streetscape.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the site is not visible from Piedmont
Road and thereby the landscape design would have no impact on the existing neighborhood
streetscape. The front yard landscaping will be dominated by existing vegetation and new
hardscape in the front setback area will be limited to driveway access to the site. No formal
landscaping is proposed for the front setback area.
f.Development of the site does not unreasonably impair the ability of adjoining properties
to utilize solar energy.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the development will not unreasonably
impair the ability of adjoining properties to utilize solar energy as the development is
located in the central portion of the site with tall trees and slopes rising up and away from
the project site to the adjacent neighbors. The proposed residence is 26’ tall and due to
building setbacks, which exceed requirements, existing topography, and surrounding trees
the project will not cast shadows on adjoining properties.
g.The design of the structure and the site development plan is consistent with the
Residential Design Handbook, pursuant to Section 15-45.055.
This finding can be made in the affirmative in that the proposed project incorporates
applicable design policies and techniques from the Residential Design Handbook. The
overall mass and height of the structure are in scale with the neighborhood; the structure is
set back in proportion to the size and shape of the lot; site development follows contours and
is appropriate given the property’s natural constraints. In addition, the proposed materials,
colors, and details enhance the architecture in a well-composed, understated manner.
h.On hillside lots, the location and the design of the structure avoid unreasonable impacts
to ridgelines, significant hillside features, community viewsheds, and is in compliance
with Section 15-13.100.
This finding is applicable to the project because the project site has an average slope greater
than 10% and is classified as a “Hillside Lot”. This finding can be made in the affirmative in
that the location of the project is not located on a ridgeline nor would significantly affect
hillside features. There are no designated community viewsheds in the vicinity of the site
and because the height of the project would be no taller than 26’, the project would be
compliance with Section 15-13.100 (Height of Structures in the HR zoning district).
Neighbor Notification and Correspondence
The applicant submitted four (4) completed neighborhood notification forms. These forms include
concerns related to construction hours and noise and impacts on trees. The Community
Development Department also received and email from a property owner at 15164 Montalvo Road
with privacy and construction impact concerns. Public comments are included as Attachment #3.
108
Report to the Planning Commission
Wildcat Road – Application # PDR18-0022/ARB18-0031
October14, 2020
Page | 7
The Community Development Department mailed public notices to property owners within 500 feet
of the site. In addition, the public hearing notice and description of the project was published in the
Saratoga News
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
The project is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant Section
15303, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class 3 (a) of the Public Resources
Code (CEQA). This exemption allows for the construction of three single-family residences in a
residential area. The project, as proposed, is for the construction of a new residence in a suburban,
residential area.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution No. 20-016
2. Arborist Approval Memo dated June 17, 2020
3. Neighbor Notification Forms and Comments
4. Story Pole Certification
5. Bridge Plans
6. Photo Railroad Car Bridge
7. Project Plans
109
RESOLUTION NO: 20-016
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
APPROVING DESIGN REVIEW PDR18-0022 AND ARBORIST REPORT ARB18-0031
WILDCAT ROAD (APN 517-22-018)
WHEREAS, on May 31, 2018 an application was submitted by Samir and Alfa Savla on
requesting Design Review and Arborist Report approval to construct a new 6,184 square foot two
story residence on a vacant 2.2-acre net parcel. Thirty-eight protected trees are proposed for
removal. The site is located within the R-1-40,000zoning district.
WHEREAS, the Community Development Department completed an environmental
assessment for the project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
and recommends that the Planning Commission determine this project Categorically Exempt.
WHEREAS, on October 14, 2020 the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public
hearing on the subject application, and considered evidence presented by City Staff, the applicant,
and other interested parties.
NOW THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga hereby finds,
determines and resolves as follows:
Section 1: The recitals set forth above are true and correct and incorporated herein by
reference.
Section 2: The project is Categorically Exempt from the Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) pursuant Section 15303, “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class
3(a) of the Public Resources Code (CEQA). This exemption allows for the construction of a single-
family residence and small structures in a residential area.
Section 3: The proposed residence is consistent with the following Saratoga General Plan
Policies: Land Use Goal 13 which provides that the City shall use the Design Review process to
assure that the new construction and major additions thereto are compatible with the site and the
adjacent surroundings; Safety Element Site and Drainage Policy 3 which provides that the City shall
require that landscaping and site drainage plans be submitted and approved during Design Review
for a residence prior to issuance of permits; and Conservation Element Policy 6.0 which provides
that the City shall protect the existing rural atmosphere of Saratoga by carefully considering the
visual impact of new development.
Section 4: The proposed residence is consistent with the Saratoga City Code in that the
design and improvements are consistent with the design review findings. The overall mass and
height of the structure are in scale with the neighborhood; the structure is set back in proportion to
the size and shape of the lot; site development follows contours and is appropriate given the
property’s natural constraints; the porch and entry are in scale with other structures in the
neighborhood. In addition, the proposed materials, colors, and details enhance the architecture in a
well-composed, understated manner.
110
Attachment 1
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 2
Section 5: The City of Saratoga Planning Commission hereby approves PDR18-0022 and
ARB18-0031, located at Wildcat Road (APN 517-22-018), subject to the Findings, and Conditions
of Approval attached hereto as Exhibit 1.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission on this 14
th day of
October 2020 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
____________________________
Razi Mohiuddin
Chair, Planning Commission
111
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 3
Exhibit 1
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
WILDAT ROAD
(APN 517-22-108)
GENERAL
1. All conditions below which are identified as permanent or for which an alternative period of
time for applicability is specified shall run with the land and apply to the landowner’s
successors in interest for such time period. No zoning clearance, or demolition, grading for this
project shall be issued until proof is filed with the city that a certificate of approval documenting
all applicable permanent or other term-specified conditions has been recorded by the applicant
with the Santa Clara County Recorder’s office in form and content to the Community
Development Director. If a condition is not “Permanent” or does not have a term specified, it
shall remain in effect until the issuance by the City of Saratoga of a Certificate of Occupancy or
its equivalent.
2. The Owner and Applicant will be mailed a statement after the time the Resolution granting this
approval is duly executed, containing a statement of all amounts due to the City in connection
with this application, including all consultant fees (collectively “processing fees”). This
approval or permit shall expire sixty (60) days after the date said notice is mailed if all
processing fees contained in the notice have not been paid in full. No Zoning Clearance or
Demolition, Grading, or Building Permit may be issued until the City certifies that all
processing fees have been paid in full (and, for deposit accounts, a surplus balance of $500 is
maintained).
3. The Project shall maintain compliance with all applicable regulations of the State, County, City
and/or other governmental agencies having jurisdiction including, without limitation, the
requirements of the Saratoga City Code incorporated herein by this reference.
4. As a condition of this Approval, Owner and Applicant hereby agree to defend, indemnify and
hold the City and its officers, officials, boards, commissions, employees, agents and volunteers
harmless from and against:
a. any and all claims, actions or proceedings to attack, set aside, void or annul any action
on the subject application, or any of the proceedings, acts or determinations taken, done
or made prior to said action; and
b. any and all claims, demands, actions, expenses or liabilities arising from or in any
manner relating to the performance of such construction, installation, alteration or
grading work by the Owner and/or Applicant, their successors, or by any person acting
on their behalf.
112
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 4
In addition, prior to any Zoning Clearance, Owner and Applicant shall execute a separate
agreement containing the details of this required Agreement to Indemnify, Hold Harmless and
Defend, which shall be subject to prior approval as to form and content by the City Attorney.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
5. The owner/applicant shall comply with all City requirements regarding drainage, including but
not limited to complying with the cityapproved Stormwater management plan. The project shall
retain and/or detain any increase in design flow from the site, that is created by the proposed
construction and grading project, such that adjacent down slope properties will not be negatively
impacted by any increase in flow. Design must follow the current Santa Clara County Drainage
Manual method criteria, as required by the building department. Retention/detention element
design must follow the Drainage Manual guidelines, as required by the building department.
6. The development shall be located and constructed to include those features, and only those
features, as shown on the Approved Plans received September 30, 2020. All proposed changes
to the approved plans must be submitted in writing with plans showing the changes, including a
clouded set of plans highlighting the changes. Such changes shall be subject to approval in
accordance with City Code.
7. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall submit for staff approval, a Lighting
Plan for the home’s exterior and landscaped areas. Proposed exterior lighting shall be limited to
full-cut off & shielded fixtures with downward directed illumination so as not to shine on
adjacent properties or public right-of-way. All proposed exterior lighting shall be designed to
limit illumination to the site and avoid creating glare impacts to surrounding properties.
8. In order to comply with standards that minimize impacts to the neighborhood during site
preparation and construction, the applicant shall comply with City Code Sections 7-30.060 and
16-75.050, with respect to noise, construction hours, maintenance of the construction site and
other requirements stated in these sections.
9. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall prepare for review and approval by
City staff a Construction Management Plan for the project which includes but is not limited to
the following:
a. Proposed construction worker parking area.
b. Proposed construction hours that are consistent with City Code.
c. Proposed construction/delivery vehicle staging or parking areas.
d. Proposed traffic control plan with traffic control measures, any street closure, hours for
delivery/earth moving or hauling, etc. To the extent possible, any deliveries, earth moving or
hauling activities will be scheduled to avoid peak commute hours.
e. Proposed construction material staging/storage areas.
f. Location of project construction sign outlining permitted construction work hours, name of
project contractor and the contact information for both homeowner and contractor.
113
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 5
10. All fences, walls and hedges shall conform to height requirements provided in City Code
Section 15-29.
11. The final landscaping and irrigation plan submitted for Building Permit approval shall
demonstrate how the project complies with the State Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance and
shall consider the following:
a. To the extent feasible, landscaping shall be designed and operated to treat storm water
runoff by incorporating elements that collect, detain and infiltrate runoff. In areas that
provide detention of water, plants that are tolerant of saturated soil conditions and prolong
exposure to water shall be specified.
b. To the extent feasible, pest resistant landscaping plants shall be used throughout the
landscaped area, especially along any hardscape area.
c. Plant materials selected shall be appropriate to site specific characteristics such as soil type,
topography, climate, amount and timing of sunlight, prevailing winds, rainfall, air
movement, patterns of land use, ecological consistency and plant interactions to ensure
successful establishment.
d. Pest resistant landscaping plants shall be considered for use throughout the landscaped area,
especially along any hardscape area.
e. Any proposed or required under grounding of utilities shall take into account potential
damage to roots of protected trees.
12. Front yard landscaping per the landscape plan dated June 12, 2020 shall be installed prior to
final inspection or a bond satisfactory to the Community Development Department valued at
150% of the estimated cost of the installation of such landscaping shall be provided to the City.
13. A locking mailbox approved for use by the U.S. Postal service shall be installed and in
compliance with Saratoga Municipal Code section 6-25.030. The mailbox shall be installed
prior to final inspection.
14. A Building Permit must be issued, and construction commenced within 36 months from the date
of adoption of this Resolution or the Design Review Approval will expire unless extended in
accordance with the City Code.
15.Permanent Condition of Approval -The property owner is responsible for all maintenance
of the access road, starting from Piedmont Road until the start of the bridge that spans over
Wildcat Creek.
16. The property owner is responsible for all damages to Piedmont Road, which is a private
street, as a result of project construction and construction vehicles. The Public Works
Director will determine if any repair is required prior to building permit final. The initial
condition of Piedmont Road will be recorded prior to the commencement of construction.
114
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 6
FIRE DEPARTMENT
17. The owner/applicant shall comply with all Fire Department requirements for the project
contained in the Santa Clara County Fire Department Approval Memo dated 08/19/20,
incorporated by this reference.
ARBORIST
18. All requirements in the City Arborist Approval Memo dated June 17, 2020 incorporated by this
reference. are hereby adopted as conditions of approval and shall be implemented as part of the
approved plans.
ENGINEERING/PUBLIC WORKS
19. The owner/applicant shall comply with all City requirements regarding drainage, including but
not limited to complying with the city approved Stormwater management plan. The project shall
retain and/or detain any increase in design flow from the site, that is created by the proposed
construction and grading project, such that adjacent down slope properties will not be negatively
impacted by any increase in flow. Design must follow the current Santa Clara County Drainage
Manual method criteria, as required by the building department. Retention/detention element
design must follow the Drainage Manual guidelines, as required by the building department.
20. Applicant / Owner shall obtain an encroachment permit for any and all improvements in any
City right-of-way or City easement including all new utilities prior to commencement of the
work to implement this Design Review.
21. Per Design Review PDR18-0022, no improvements in the public right-of-way are required.
22. Damages to driveway approach, curb and gutter, public streets, or other public improvements
during construction shall be repaired prior to final inspection.
23. All new/upgraded utilities shall be installed underground.
24. Applicant / Owner shall maintain the streets, sidewalks and other right of way as well as
adjacent properties, both public and private, in a clean, safe and usable condition. All spills of
soil, rock or construction debris shall be removed immediately.
25. The Owner/Applicant shall incorporate adequate source control measures to limit pollutant
generation, discharge, and runoff (e.g. landscaping that minimizes irrigation and runoff,
promotes surface infiltration where possible, minimizes the use of pesticides and fertilizers, and
incorporates appropriate sustainable landscaping practices and programs, such as Bay-Friendly
Landscaping).
26. All building and construction related activities shall adhere to New Development and
Construction – Best Management Practices as adopted by the City for the purpose of preventing
storm water pollution:
115
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 7
• Owner shall implement construction site inspection and control to prevent construction site
discharges of pollutants into the storm drains per approved Erosion Control Plan.
• The City requires the construction sites to maintain year-round effective erosion control,
run-on and run-off control, sediment control, good site management, and non-storm water
management through all phases of construction (including, but not limited to, site grading,
building, and finishing of lots) until the site is fully stabilized by landscaping or the
installation of permanent erosion control measures.
• City will conduct inspections to determine compliance and determine the effectiveness of
the BMPs in preventing the discharge of construction pollutants into the storm drain. Owner
shall be required to timely correct all actual and potential discharges observed.
27. Prior to the commencement of any earthwork/grading activities, the permittee shall arrange a
pre-construction meeting. The meeting shall include the City of Saratoga Grading Inspector
(408-868-1201), the grading contractor, and the project Soils Engineer. The permittee or
representative shall arrange the pre-construction meeting at least 48 hours prior to the start of
any earthwork activities.
28. Prior to foundation inspection by the City, the LLS of record shall provide a written certification
that all building setbacks are per the approved plans.
29. Prior to the Building final, all Public Works conditions shall be completed per approved plans.
30. Upon the completion of this project the elevation of the lowest floor including basement shall be
certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor and verified by the City's building
inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the
City’s Floodplain Administrator.
31. Upon completion of the rough grading work and at the final completion of the project the final
grading reports are to be submitted to the City per section 16-17.150 of the City Municipal
Code.
32. Prior to issuance of building permit provide copies of encroachment permits from the California
Department of Fish and Wildlife and Santa Clara Valley Water District for construction of new
bridge.
CITY GEOLOGIST
31. The applicant's Geotechnical Consultant shall review and approve all geotechnical aspects of the
project building and grading plans (i.e., site preparation and grading, site drainage
improvements and design parameters for retaining walls, bridge and residence foundations) to
ensure that their recommendations have been properly incorporated. The results of the
geotechnical plan review should be summarized by the Geotechnical Consultant in a letter and
submitted to the City for review and approval by appropriate City staff prior to issuance of
building permits.
32. The Geotechnical Consultant shall inspect, test (as needed), and approve all geotechnical aspects
of the project construction. The inspections should include, but not necessarily be limited to:
116
Wildcat Road (APN517-22-018)
Application # PDR18-0022 / ARB18-0031
Resolution #20-016
Page | 8
site preparation and grading, removal and replacement of undocumented fill or loose native
soils, site surface and subsurface drainage improvements, and excavations for retaining wall,
bridge and residence foundations prior to the placement of steel and concrete. The results of
these inspections and the as-built conditions of the project should be described by the
geotechnical consultant in a letter and submitted to the City for review prior to final (granting of
occupancy) project approval.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT SUBMITTAL
33. Four (4) sets of complete construction plans shall be submitted to the Building Division. These
plans shall be subject to review and approval by the City prior to issuance of Zoning Clearance.
The construction plans shall, at a minimum include the following:
a. Architectural drawings and other plan sheets consistent with those identified as Exhibit “A”
on file with the Community Development Department.
b. Arborist Report dated June 17, 2020printed onto aseparate plan page; and
c. All additional drawings, plans, maps, reports, notes, and/or materials required by the
Building Division.
d. This signed and dated Resolution printed onto separate construction plan pages.
e. The site plan shall contain a note with the following language: “Prior to foundation
inspection by the City, the Licensed Land Surveyor of record shall provide a written
certification that all building setbacks comply with the Approved Plans,” which note shall
represent a condition which must be satisfied to remain in compliance with this Design
Review Approval.
f. A final Landscape and Irrigation Plan which provides documentation showing how the
project complies with applicable Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (WELO)
requirements including the payment of deposit fees for the review submitted plans and water
budget/usage calculations.
117
Community Development Department
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
www.saratoga.ca.us/171/trees
408.868.1276
CITY OF SARATOGA ARBORIST APPROVAL
Conditions of Approval and Tree Protection Plan
Prepared by Kate Bear, City Arborist Application No. ARB18-0031
Phone: (408) 868-1276 Address: 0 Wildcat Road
Email: kbear@saratoga.ca.us Owner: Samir and Alfa Savla
APN: 517-22-105
Date: June 17, 2020
PROJECT SCOPE:
The applicant has submitted plans to construct a new two story home with a basement and attached
three car garage on a vacant lot. The project includes the construction of a bridge and retaining walls.
One hundred twenty seven (127) protected trees were inventoried for this project. Thirty eight (38)
protected trees (1 – 4, 15, 23, 25, 26, 31, 31A, 31B, 32, 37A, 39A, 41, 46 – 49, 50, 50A, 50B, 50C, 54 –
56, 58, 60, 62, 63, 66, 67, 70, 71, 78, 79A, 80 and 80A) are requested for removal to construct the
project.
PROJECT DATA IN BRIEF:
Tree security deposit – Required - $109,365
Tree protection – Required – See Conditions of Approval and attached map.
Tree removals – Trees listed above are approved for removal once building
permits have been issued.
Replacement trees – Required = $77,850
Project Arborist – Busara Firestone, Ian Geddes and Associates
ATTACHMENTS:
1 – Findings
2 – Tree Removal Criteria
3 – Tree Information
4 – Conditions of Approval
5 – Map Showing Tree Protection
1 118
Attachment 2
0 Wildcat Road
FINDINGS:
Tree Removals
According to Section 15-50.080 of the City Code, whenever a tree is requested for removal as
part of a project, certain findings must be made and specific tree removal criteria met. Thirty
eight (38) trees protected by City Code (1 – 4, 15, 23, 25, 26, 31, 31A, 31B, 32, 37A, 39A, 41,
46 – 49, 50, 50A, 50B, 50C, 54 – 56, 58, 60, 62, 63, 66, 67, 70, 71, 78, 79A, 80 and 80A) are
requested for removal to construct the project. They meet the City’s criteria allowing them to
be removed and replaced as part of the project, once building division permits have been
obtained. Attachment 2 contains the tree removal criteria for reference.
Table 1: Summary of Tree Removal Criteria that are met
Species Tree No. Criteria met Total
Coast live oak 1, 3, 4, 32, 41, 46, 47, 48, 80A 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 9
Valley oak 2 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 1
Sycamore 60 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 1
Red gum eucalyptus 15, 23, 25, 26, 31, 31A, 31B 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 7
Aacacia 37A, 39A, 67, 78, 79A, 80 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 6
Black walnut 49 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 1
California bay 50, 50A, 50C, 58, 62, 63, 70, 71 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 8
Cottonwood 50B, 54, 55 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 3
Coast redwood 56 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 1
Elderberry 66 1, 4, 6, 7, 9 1
New Construction
Based on the information provided, and as conditioned, this project complies with the
requirements for the setback of new construction from existing trees under Section 15 -
50.120 of the City Code.
Tree Preservation Plan
Section 15-50.140 of the City Code requires a Tree Preservation Plan for this project. To
satisfy this requirement the following shall be copied onto a plan sheet and included in the
final sets of plans:
1)The recommendations from the original arborist report dated May 14, 2018, and
addenda letters dated August 5, September 11, and December 4, 2019 and January 21,
2020;
2)The tree information from the addendum letter January 21, 2020;
3)The Project Data in Brief, the Conditions of Approval, and the map showing tree
protection from this report dated June 18, 2020.
2 119
0 Wildcat Road
TREE REMOVAL CRITERIA
Criteria that permit the removal of a protected tree are listed below. This information is from
Article 15-50.080 of the City Code and is applied to any tree requested for removal as part of the
project. If findings are made that meet the criteria listed below, the tree(s) may be approved for
removal and replacement during construction.
(1)The condition of the tree with respect to disease, imminent danger of falling, proximity to existing or
proposed structures and interference with utility services, and whether the tree is a Dead tree or a
Fallen tree.
(2)The necessity to remove the tree because of physical damage or threatened damage to
improvements or impervious surfaces on the property.
(3)The topography of the land and the effect of the tree remo val upon erosion, soil retention and the
diversion or increased flow of surface waters, particularly on steep slopes.
(4)The number, species, size and location of existing trees in the area and the effect the removal would
have upon shade, privacy impact, scenic beauty, property values, erosion control, and the general
welfare of residents in the area.
(5)The age and number of healthy trees the property is able to support according to good forestry
practices.
(6)Whether or not there are any alternatives that would allow for retaining or not encroaching on the
protected tree.
(7)Whether the approval of the request would be contrary to or in conflict with the general purpose
and intent of this Article.
(8)Any other information relevant to the public health, safety, or general welfare and the purposes of
this ordinance as set forth in Section 15-50.010
(9)The necessity to remove the tree for economic or other enjoyment of the property when there is no
other feasible alternative to the removal.
(10)The necessity to remove the tree for installation and efficient operation of solar panels, subject to
the requirements that the tree(s) to be removed, shall not be removed until solar panels have been
installed and replacement trees planted in conformance with the City Arborist's recommendation.
3 120
0 Wildcat Road
TREE INFORMATION:
Table 2: Tree information from arborist report dated January 21, 2020.
4 121
0 Wildcat Road
Table 2 continued: Tree information from arborist report dated January 21, 2020.
5 122
0 Wildcat Road
Table 2 continued: Tree information from arborist report dated January 21, 2020.
6 123
0 Wildcat Road
Table 2 continued: Tree information from arborist report dated January 21, 2020.
7 124
0 Wildcat Road
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
1.Owner, Architect, Contractor: It is the responsibility of the owner, architect and contractor
to be familiar with the information in this report and implement the required conditions.
2.Permit:
a.Receipt of a Planning or Building permit does not relieve applicant of his responsibilities
for protecting trees per City Code Article 15-50 on all construction work.
b.No protected tree authorized for removal or encroachment pursuant to this project may
be removed or encroached upon until the issuance of the applicable permit from the
building division for the approved project.
3.Final Plan Sets:
a.Shall include the tree information and protection recommendations from the arborist
reports by Busara Firestone dated May 14, 2018, August, 5, September 11, and
December 4, 2019, and January 21, 2020 copied onto a plan sheet.
b.Shall include the Project Data in Brief, the Conditions of Approval, and the map showing
tree protection sections of the City Arborist report dated June 18, 2020.
4.Tree Protection Security Deposit:
a.Is required per City Ordinance 15-50.080.
b.Shall be $109,365 for tree(s) 0 – 84.
c.Shall be obtained by the owner and filed with the Community Development Department
before obtaining Building Division permits.
d.May be in the form of cash, check, credit card payment or a bond.
e.Shall remain in place for the duration of construction of the project.
f.May be released once the project has been completed, inspected and approved by the
City Arborist.
5.Tree Protection Fencing:
a.Shall be installed as shown on the attached map and shall be shown on the Site Plan.
b.Shall be established prior to the arrival of construction equipment or materials on site.
c.Shall be comprised of six-foot high chain link fencing mounted on 2-inch diameter
galvanized posts, driven into the ground and spaced no more than 10 feet apart.
d.Shall be posted with signs saying “TREE PROTECTION FENCE - DO NOT MOVE OR
REMOVE WITHOUT APPROVAL FROM CITY ARBORIST, KATE BEAR (408) 868-1276”.
e.Wherever protection is needed outside of fences, unprocessed wood chips, or approved
equivalent, shall be placed to the edge of the tree’s canopy and to a depth of 6 inches.
f.Call City Arborist, Kate Bear at (408) 868-1276 for an inspection of tree protection
fencing once it has been installed. This is required prior to obtaining building division
permits.
g.Tree protection fencing shall remain undisturbed throughout the constru ction until final
inspection.
8 125
0 Wildcat Road
6.Construction: All construction activities shall be conducted outside tree protection fencing
unless permitted as conditioned below. These activities include, but are not necessarily
limited to, the following: demolition, grading, trenching for utility installation, equipment
cleaning, stockpiling and dumping materials (including soil fill), and equipment/vehicle
operation and parking.
7.Work inside fenced areas:
a.Requires approval from City Arborist before performing work.
b.Requires a field meeting with the Project Arborist and on-site monitoring work.
8.Project Arborist:
a.Shall be Busara Firestone unless otherwise approved by the City Arborist.
b.Shall visit the site every two weeks during grading, trenching or digging activities and
every six weeks thereafter. A letter/email shall be provided to the City after each
inspection which documents the work performed around trees, includes photos of the
work in progress, and provides information on tree condition during construction.
c.Shall supervise any permitted pruning or root pruning of trees on site. Roots of
protected trees measuring two inches in diameter or more shall not be cut without prior
approval of the Project Arborist.
9.Project Arborist monitoring: on-site monitoring required for all work listed below:
a.All work within 10 feet of trees 5, 7 and 38
b.All work within 15 feet of trees 33, 51, 64 and 69
c.All work within 20 feet of trees 13, 16, 24, 37 and 53
d.Installation of the bridge
e.Installation of the new sewer line
10.Tree removal: Trees 1 – 4, 15, 23, 25, 26, 31, 31A, 31B, 32, 37A, 39A, 41, 46 – 49, 50, 50A,
50B, 50C, 54 – 56, 58, 60, 62, 63, 66, 67, 70, 71, 78, 79A, 80 and 80A meet the criteria for
removal and may be removed once building division permits have been ob tained.
11.New trees:
a.New trees equal to $77,850 shall be planted as part of the project before final inspection
and occupancy of the new home. Replacement values for new trees are listed below.
15 gallon = $350 24 inch box = $500 36 inch box = $1,500
48 inch box = $5,000 60 inch box = 7,000 72 inch box = $15,000
b.Trees shall be replaced on or off site according to good forestry practices, and shall
provide equivalent value in terms of aesthetic and environmental quality, size, height,
location, appearance and other significant beneficial characteristics of the remo ved
trees.
c.New trees may be of any species and planted anywhere on the property as long as they do not
encroach on retained trees.
d.Only drought tolerant plants that are compatible with oaks are permitted under the outer half
of the canopy of oak trees on site.
9 126
0 Wildcat Road
12.Damage to protected trees that will be retained:
a.Should any protected tree be damaged beyond repair, new trees shall be required to
replace the tree. If there is insufficient room to plant the necessary number of new
trees, some of the value for trees may be paid into the City’s Tree Fund. Replacement
values for new trees are listed above under New Trees.
b.Water loving plants and lawns are not permitted under oak tree canopies.
13.Final inspection:
At the end of the project, when the contractor wants to remove tree protection fencing and
have the tree protection security deposit released by the City, call City Arborist for a final
inspection. Before scheduling a final inspection from the City Arborist, have the project
arborist do an inspection, prepare a letter with their findings and provide that letter to the
City for the project file.
10 127
0 Wildcat Road Legend Tree Protection Fencing 11 128
0 Wildcat Road Legend Tree Protection Fencing Legend Tree Protection Fencing 12 129
130
Attachment 3
131
132
133
134
From:Catherine Fulde
To:Christopher Riordan
Subject:PDR 18-0022/ARB18-0031 Wildcat Rd.
Date:Sunday, October 4, 2020 4:26:59 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when
opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders.
Dear Chris:
Thank you so much for your response to my email regarding inquiring the Wildcat Road (517-
22-108) Application.
We strongly object to the removal of the 38 protected trees and the 26 foot height of the
building which will impact the view from our home at 15164 Montalvo Road. In addition,
density and WUI are changing in Saratoga and fire is a real threat so we are concerned about
the project. There are no exit roads in the area, and on your map Wildcat Road is actually
Wildcat Creek. There is literally no way out should a fire occur.
Please see that these objections be included in the agenda of the Public Hearing October 12th.
We appreciate your kind help.
Sincerely,
Catherine Fulde and Family
135
136
Attachment 4
E:\Land Projects 2004\Savla Bridge\Bridge.dwg, 1-Title Sheet, 9/13/2018 3:11:05 PM, Scott, PDF.pc3, 24x36, 1:1137
Attachment 5
E:\Land Projects 2004\Savla Bridge\Bridge.dwg, 2-BridgePlan-Sections, 9/13/2018 3:10:56 PM, Scott, PDF.pc3, 24x36, 1:1138
E:\Land Projects 2004\Savla Bridge\Bridge.dwg, 3-Details, 9/13/2018 3:11:01 PM, Scott, PDF.pc3, 24x36, 1:1139
E:\Land Projects 2004\Savla Bridge\Bridge.dwg, 4-Details, 9/13/2018 3:11:03 PM, Scott, PDF.pc3, 24x36, 1:1140
141
Attachment 6
142Attachment 7
143
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
7
9
1011
11B
12
14
13
15
16
16A
16B17
17A
18
19
19B
19A
19C
20
21
22
23
24 24A
25
26
27
29
28
34C
73
144
22
23
24 24A
25
26
27
29
30
28
31
31A
31B32
33
34
34A
34B
34C
35
36
37
37A
37B
38
38A 38B
39
39A
39B
39C
39D
39E
4041
42
43
43A
44
45
46
47
48
49
49A
49B5050A
50B
50C
51
52
53
53A
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
60A
60B
60C 60D
60E
61
62
63
66
64
65
65A
67
68
69
69A
70 71
57A
72
73
74
75
76
77
77A
78
79
79A
80
80A
81
82
83
84
85
145
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
7
9
1011
11B
12
14 13
15
16
16A
16B17
17A
18
19
19B
19A
19C
20
21
22
23
24 24A
25
26
27
29
28
34C
73
146
22
23
24 24A
25
26
27
29
30
28
31
31A
31B32
33
34
34A
34B
34C
35
36
37
37A
37B
38
38A 38B
39
39A
39B
39C
39D
39E
4041
42
43
43A
44
45
46
47
48
49
49A
49B5050A
50B50C
51
52
53
53A
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
60A
60B
60C 60D
60E
61
62
63
66
64
65
65A
67
68
69
69A
70 71
57A
72
73
74
75
76
77
77A
78
79
79A
80
80A
81
82
83
84
85
147
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
7
9
1011
11B
12
14 13
15
16
16A
16B17
17A
18
19
19B
19A
19C
20
21
22
23
24 24A
25
26
27
28
73
148
22
23
24 24A
25
26
27
29
30
28
31
31A
31B32
33
34
34A
34B
34C
35
36
37
37A
37B
38
38A 38B
39
39A
39B
39C
39D
39E
4041
42
43
43A
44
45
46
47
48
49
49A
49B5050A
50B
50C
51
52
53
53A
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
60A
60B
60C 60D
60E
61
62
63
66
64
65
65A
67
68
69
69A
70 71
57A
72
73
74
75
76
77
77A
78
79
79A
80
80A
81
82
83
84
85
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
15 gal (1)Eastern Redbud24" (3)Coast Live Oak24" (4)Coast Live Oak24"box (1)Arbutus Standard24"box (3)Big Leaf MapleLawnPatioat 114.75KitchenLightwellGreatRoomGuestRoom3 Car GarageF.F. 125.5TrashEnclosureLibraryEntryPorchLivingRoomDiningRoomResidenceF.F. 126.0TravertinePatioat 126'Drivewayof PaversFire TruckTurn-aroundof Paver(see note below) Steps140150130150140130Stream BedTop of BankTop of Bank120Lawnat 125'(1) 15 galEastern Redbud(3) 24"Coast Live Oak(2) 24"Coast Live Oak(2) 24"boxBig Leaf Maple(3) 24"Coast Live Oak(2) 24"Coast Live OakLawnArea #3Area #4Area #5Area #1Area #2New AsphaltDrivewayFire PitT.W. 128B.W. 125.5 Ret. WallGravelSeating AreaBench18" HighCounter& GrillT.W.128.0B.W 125.5T.W.124.5B.W 124.0T.W.128.5B.W 125.5(E) 8" Diam.Oak2 (E) 6" Diam.Bay(E) 20" Diam.RWD(E) 18.5" Diam.Oak2 (E) 30" Diam.Oak(E) 11" Diam.Bay(E) 34" Diam.Oak(E) 13" Diam.Oak(E) 16" Diam.RWD2 (E) 10" Diam.Bay(E) 28" Diam.Oak(E) 42" Diam.Oak3 (E) 8" Diam.Bay(E) OakTrees(E) 12" Diam.Oak(E) 8" Diam.Oak(E) 10" Diam.Oak(E) 40" Diam.Oak(E) 17" Diam.Oak(E) OakTrees(E) 20" Diam.Wallnut(E) 8" Diam.Acacia2 (E) 10'' Diam.Trees(E) OakTreesT.W.130.0B.W 125.5TravertinePatioat 125.4'22'-00"Future S.C.V.W.DEasement2
2
'
-
0
" Hedge of Lavender, Rosemary & RockroseFuture S.C.V.W.D.EasementWildcat Rd. Saratoga, CA.
SAVLA RESIDENCE
L-1SCALEDRAWNJOBDATE1"=10'-0"SAVLAAD & IN06-12-20LANDSCAPE PLAN Calif. Reg. #2239 (408) 842-0245
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
AITKEN ASSOCIATES
karen@kaa.design
8262 Rancho Real Gilroy, CA 95020*NOTES (E)= ExistingNORTHA minimum three inch (3") layer ofmulch shall be applied on all exposedsoil surfaces of planting areas.SCALE1"=10'-0"051020NOTE: Fire apparatus accesssurface shall be capable ofsupporting 75K pounds.164
16'-0"VehicleParkingBridgeNew AsphaltDrivewayNew AsphaltDrivewayKey Pad w/ KnoxKey SwitchLight FixturePre-cast Stone Cap24"x24"PillarStoneVeneerPre-cast StonePedestal BaseGrade Beam w/(4)#5 Re-Bar3" Gap betweenFinish Grade & Gate8" CMUBlock(4) #4 Re-BarHingeIron PicketsSquareFooting(8) #5 Re-BarConcreteFootingperManualGate OperatorWater MeterT.W.114.0B.W 110.0T.W.113.5B.W 108.51'-4"2'-0"1'-0"2'-6"2'-6"7'-6"
7'-0"2'-0"4'-0"2'-0"8'-0"2'-0"2'-4"2'-6"
6"16'-0"Wildcat Rd. Saratoga, CA.
SAVLA RESIDENCE
L-2SCALEDRAWNJOBDATE1"=10'-0"SAVLAAD & IN06-21-20DRIVEWAY PLAN Calif. Reg. #2239 (408) 842-0245
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
AITKEN ASSOCIATES
karen@kaa.design
8262 Rancho Real Gilroy, CA 95020*NOTES (E)= ExistingNORTHSCALE1"=10'-0"051020GATE DETAILwith 24" x 24" Stone PillarsScale: 14"=1'-0"Keypad with Knox-Key-Switch165
Patioat 114.75KitchenLightwellGuestRoom3 Car GarageF.F. 125.5TrashEnclosureLibraryEntryPorchLivingRoomDiningRoomResidenceF.F. 126.0140150130150140130Stream BedTop of BankTop of Bank120Lawnat 125'New AsphaltDrivewayFire PitT.W. 128B.W. 125.5GravelSeating AreaCounter& GrillT.W.128.0B.W 125.5LawnTravertinePatioat 126'Drivewayof Pavers Steps150140130120LawnLow WaterDrip 1,120 Sq.Ft.Low WaterDrip 770 Sq.Ft.Med. WaterDrip 336 Sq.Ft.Low WaterDrip 1,000 Sq.Ft.High WaterSpray 705 Sq.Ft.High WaterSpray 632 Sq.Ft.Med. WaterDrip 140 Sq.Ft.Low WaterDrip 613 Sq.Ft.Low WaterDrip 782 Sq.Ft.High WaterSpray 370 Sq.Ft.Med. WaterDrip 140 Sq.Ft.Low WaterDrip 765 Sq.Ft.123456789101112EntryPorch(E) 8" Diam.Oak2 (E) 6" Diam.Bay(E) 20" Diam.RWD(E) 18.5" Diam.Oak2 (E) 30" Diam.Oak(E) 11" Diam.Bay(E) 34" Diam.Oak(E) 13" Diam.Oak(E) 16" Diam.RWD2 (E) 10" Diam.Bay(E) 28" Diam.Oak(E) 42" Diam.Oak3 (E) 8" Diam.Bay(E) OakTrees(E) 12" Diam.Oak(E) 8" Diam.Oak(E) 10" Diam.Oak(E) 40" Diam.Oak(E) 17" Diam.Oak(E) OakTrees(E) 20" Diam.Wallnut(E) 8" Diam.Acacia2 (E) 10'' Diam.Trees(E) OakTreesT.W.130.0B.W 125.522'-00"Future S.C.V.W.D.EasementTravertinePatioat 125.4'Fire TruckTurn-aroundof Paver(see note below)SYMBOLMANUFACTURER/MODEL/DESCRIPTIONQTYRain Bird 1804-SAM-PRS 15 Series MPR 17Turf Spray 4.0" Pop-Up Sprinkler with Co-Molded Wiper Seal.1/2" NPT Female Threaded Inlet. With Seal-A-Matic Check Valve.Pressure Regulating.SYMBOLMANUFACTURER/MODELQTYTree Ring Irrigation25Area to Receive DriplineRain Bird XFS-06-12SYMBOLMANUFACTURER/MODELQTYRain Bird DVF12Rain Bird PEB3Febco 825Y 1"1Rain Bird ESP4-SMTE with (3) ESP-SM6 1POC 1Shutoff Valve 1Irrigation Lateral Line: PVC Schedule 40 Irrigation Mainline: PVC Schedule 40BFCCPOCSVIRRIGATION_LEGENDWildcat Rd. Saratoga, CA.
SAVLA RESIDENCE
L-3SCALEDRAWNJOBDATE1"=10'-0"SAVLAAD & IN06-12-20IRRIGATION PLAN Calif. Reg. #2239 (408) 842-0245
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
AITKEN ASSOCIATES
karen@kaa.design
8262 Rancho Real Gilroy, CA 95020*NOTES (E)= ExistingNORTHRefer to L-4 for Water CalculationsSCALE1"=10'-0"051020166
Wildcat Rd. Saratoga, CA.
SAVLA RESIDENCE
L-4SCALEDRAWNJOBDATE1"=10'-0"SAVLAAD & IN06-12-20WATER CALCULATIONS Calif. Reg. #2239 (408) 842-0245
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
AITKEN ASSOCIATES
8262 Rancho Real Gilroy, CA 95020
karen@kaa.design
167