HomeMy WebLinkAbout FY 2025-26 Adopted Operating and Capital Budget Book
City of Saratoga, California
Operating and Capital Budget
Fiscal Year 2025-26
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 2
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CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
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FISCAL YEAR 2025-26
CITY COUNCIL ADOPTED BUDGET
CITY COUNCIL
Belal Aftab, Mayor
Chuck Page, Vice Mayor
Kookie Fitzsimmons
Tina Walia
Yan Zhao
APPOINTED OFFICIALS
Matt Morley, City Manager
Richard Taylor, City Attorney
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Bryan Swanson, Community Development Director
John Cherbone, Public Works Director
Leslie Arroyo, Assistant City Manager
Ryan Hinchman, Administrative Services Director
BUDGET PREPARATION TEAM
Andres Murillo, Administrative Analyst
Frances Reed, Administrative Analyst
Shaheen Sarwari, Administrative Analyst
CONTACT INFORMATION
City of Saratoga - Administrative Services Director
13777 Fruitvale Avenue - Saratoga, California 95070 www.saratoga.ca.us
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
2025-26 Adopted Budget
INTRODUCTORY PAGE
City Manager’s Budget Message
Transmittal letter 7
2024-25 Major Accomplishments 10
2025-26 Major Initiatives 11
Adopted Budget Summary 12
Organization Chart 13
CITY OVERVIEW
Mission Statement 18
Location 19
History 20
Demographics 23
Resident Services 24
Governance 27
Strategic Goals & Objectives 29
Fiscal Stewardship 31
Annual Budget Process 36
BUDGET DISCUSSION
General Fund Overview 40
General Fund Revenues 41
General Fund Expenditures 45
Table of Contents
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
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OPERATING PROGRAMS PAGE
City Council Programs 50
City Manager’s Department Programs 56
Administrative Services Programs 69
Community Development Programs 97
Public Works Programs 117
Community Services Programs 140
Public Safety Programs 155
Non-Departmental Programs 164
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Introduction 176
Streets Capital Program 178
Parks & Trails Capital Program 209
Facilities Capital Program 230
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program 240
American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Relief Fund (ARPA SLFRF) 255
SUPPLEMENTAL SECTION
Accounting and Budgetary Structure 263
Financial Planning 273
Employee Compensation 280
Glossary 289
For additional financial resources including reports, policies, and schedules, please visit the
City’s website: City Finance Documents
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
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City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
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June 18, 2025
Honorable Mayor and City Council Members,
It is my privilege to present the City of Saratoga’s budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1,
2025. This year’s budget reflects a balanced and strategic spending plan that sustains essential
service levels while proactively addressing ongoing challenges. These challenges include
significant anticipated increases in contracts for landscaping and maintenance, rising public safety
expenditures, and ongoing insurance premium escalations. Notwithstanding these challenges,
the budget balances competing priorities by maintaining essential services, investing in city
infrastructure, and increasing funding for disaster preparedness to ensure the long-term well-
being and resilience of our community.
The budget process began at the City Council’s January retreat, where the multi-year financial
forecast revealed that expenses are projected to grow faster than revenues, indicating a structural
deficit in the coming years. The five-year forecast highlights the critical need for ongoing, strategic
financial management, as both operating and capital costs are expected to outpace revenue
growth. This forecast served as a foundational guide, shaping our budget planning and decision-
making throughout the budget process.
The City has implemented several strategies to maintain fiscal balance, including moderately
conservative revenue projections, ongoing review of expenditures, and prioritization of critical
infrastructure and safety projects.
The 2025-26 budget assumes moderate continued building activity which generates cost recovery
in Charges for Services. $1 million of excess Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund (ERAF)
is included in the property tax budget, although county estimates are $1.2 million. Excess ERAF
continues to be at risk as the State Controller’s Office is engaged in ongoing litigation with Santa
Clara county to potentially claw back the funds.
Budget requests were reviewed under the lens of the projected structural deficit, and City staff
worked to refine cost estimates to achieve a balanced budget. Capital projects were analyzed for
potential outside funding sources, and adjusted to increase grant and outside funding
opportunities where appropriate. City staff will continue to work to identify potential funding
opportunities through federal, state, and local grants on key projects.
The City’s capital improvement program (CIP) for 2025-26 totals $12.1 million, with $3.7 million
allocated from the General Fund and $8.4 million from dedicated revenues and grants. The CIP
funding increased compared to prior years, with $3.9 million of funding from grants for traffic and
pedestrian crossing projects. City Council created a new priority project for Park and Trail Fire
mitigation, and increased funding from $100,000 to $349,100. The project will receive priority
funding of $200,000 annually in future years. Other notable projects include significant
investments in traffic safety and electric vehicle infrastructure. The Council has also increased
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 8
funding for hillside stabilization from $250,000 to $500,000, reflecting the community’s
commitment to resilience and public safety.
Our dedication to the City’s long-term financial stability and investment in critical infrastructure
continues beyond the adoption of the 2025-26 budget. At the direction of City Council, staff are
analyzing potential long-term financial strategies to strengthen the City’s fiscal outlook. This
analysis includes a thorough review of protective services, landscaping and maintenance
contracts, insurance costs, and various support programs, as well as an examination of historical
financial data to guide decision-making.
To address the projected structural deficit, we are working closely with the Santa Clara County
Sheriff’s Office, the City of Cupertino, and the Town of Los Altos Hills to explore ways to manage
and stabilize our law enforcement contract, which is the City’s second-largest expense. With the
current contract set to expire on June 30, 2026, our focus over the next year will be on developing
a sustainable, long-term solution that ensures the Sheriff’s Office can continue delivering reliable,
responsive, and high-quality public safety services to our community.
I want to express my appreciation to the City Council and City staff for their outstanding
partnership in developing this budget. The Council continues to advance long-term financial
strategies to reduce structural expenditures while strategically investing in key capital projects.
Throughout the budget process, City staff identified opportunities for cost reductions. While our
work continues, I am confident we will navigate these challenges and build a financially
sustainable future for Saratoga.
Respectfully submitted,
Matt Morley
Matt Morley
City Manager
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 9
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City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 10
2024-25 Major Accomplishments
ARPA Capital Improvement Plan Projects
Public Works continues to make progress on
CIP projects funded by the American Rescue
Plan Act’s (ARPA) $7.2 million allocation to
Saratoga; project descriptions and details
begin on page 243. With $5.2 million of
funding unspent, the Saratoga Village Water
Quality Improvement project is the largest of
these projects, and makes significant
stormwater management improvements to
runoff from the Village parking districts into
Saratoga Creek and advances Clean Water
initiatives. Other smaller projects will also
serve to improve stormwater runoff and fulfill
state mandates. ARPA projects are a key
area of focus, as the projects need to have
funds fully committed by December 2024,
and expended by December 2026.
Pavement Management Program
City Council expanded funding for the
Pavement Management Program CIP
allocating $1.0 million from the General
Fund’s Capital Reserve to ensure Saratoga
roadways are resurfaced and maintained as
needed.
Online Applications & Permit Processing
Saratoga continues to refine and promote
online services. In 2025-26 CDD will
upgrade the TRAKiT online portal which will
provide a cloud-based Planning and Building
Division application, review and permitting
system. This upgraded version of eTRAKiT
is designed to improve customer service and
staff efficiency. Furthermore, the Building
Division will be implementing Symbium, an
online solar permitting platform that
ultimately helps customers to obtain self-
issued, photovoltaic (PV) permits.
Tree Inventory
In 2025-26 the City will work to develop a
Tree Inventory that would include a
comprehensive catalogue of street and
public property trees, implementing a web-
based tree management software system for
efficient data management, and formulating
a multi-year integrated urban forest
maintenance plan. This would help the City
be more efficient in its approach to tree
maintenance and mitigation of potential risks
from trees. It will also allow for better budget
planning across multiple years to address
the mitigation and maintenance work
identified in the inventory.
Business System Improvements
The City’s business systems continue to
evolve where services are provided with
greater reliance on paperless and electronic
systems. Improvements include
implementation of a budgeting and
forecasting database, increased use of
DocuSign to streamline electronic
signatures, and the continued movement to
cloud-based applications for increased
functionality and accessibility.
Speed Survey
The City Traffic Engineer, Fehr and Peers,
will conduct a new Speed Survey. The data
collected from a speed survey is used to
engineer the safe and efficient flow of traffic
across the City.
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 11
2025-26 Major Initiatives
ARPA Capital Improvement Plan Projects
Public Works continues to make progress on
CIP projects funded by the American Rescue
Plan Act’s (ARPA) $7.2 million allocation to
Saratoga; project descriptions and details
begin on page 255. With about $4 million of
funding unspent, the Saratoga Village Water
Quality Improvement project is the largest of
these projects, and makes significant
stormwater management improvements to
runoff from the Village parking districts into
Saratoga Creek and advances Clean Water
initiatives. The Village project is a key area of
focus, and all funds need to be expended by
December 2026.
Park and Trail Fire Mitigation
In response to the devastating losses from
the recent Los Angeles wildfire, the City
Council established a new priority capital
project focused on Park and Trail Fire
Mitigation. Funding for this project will be
used to remove brush and dead trees,
creating defensible space between City-
owned land and private properties to reduce
wildfire risk and improve community safety.
For the 2025-26 fiscal year, the budget
allocates $349,100 to this initiative, with a
recommendation to provide $200,000 in
priority funding for each subsequent year.
These actions align with the City’s broader
efforts to enhance wildfire resilience and
address the urgent need to protect both
public and private lands from future fire
threats.
Tree Maintenance Implementation
Building on the development of the Tree
Inventory, the City will implement a proactive
tree maintenance program in 2025-26. Using
the new tree management software, City
staff will schedule and track regular
inspections, pruning, and necessary
removals to ensure the health and safety of
street and public property trees. This data-
driven approach will enable timely responses
to potential hazards, support long-term urban
forest health, and improve resource
allocation.
Business System Improvements
Key improvements in business systems for
2025-26 include DocuSign integration with
Laserfiche for contract management, and
integration of eFinance and eTRAKiT for
financial reporting.
Online Applications & Permit Processing
Saratoga continues to refine and promote
online services. In 2025-26 CDD will
upgrade the TRAKiT online portal which will
provide a cloud-based Planning and Building
Division application, review and permitting
system. This upgraded version of eTRAKiT
is designed to improve customer service and
staff efficiency, and make some permits and
business licenses available to the public
online thru the new eTRAKiT system.
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 12
ADOPTED BUDGET SUMMARY
Fund
July 1, 2025
Est.
Beginning
Balances Revenues (Expenditures)
Transfers
In / (Out)
June 30,
2026 Est.
Ending
Balances
General Fund $19,223,465 $32,555,809 ($32,487,340)($3,600,000)$15,691,934
Special Revenue Funds
L&L ALPR Districts 2,941 106,817 (106,419)3,340
Landscape & Lighting Districts (L&L 167,314 244,362 (317,014)94,662
Landscape Districts 617,925 363,770 (584,705)396,989
Lighting Districts 26,458 7,698 (10,789)23,367
Storm Drain Districts 129,803 7,605 (26,320)111,087
Special Revenue Funds Total 944,441 730,253 (1,045,247)629,446
Debt Service Funds
Community Facility District Bonds (1,333,641)108,000 (117,530)(1,343,171)
General Obligation Bonds 719,459 800,000 (842,273)677,186
Debt Service Funds Total (614,182)908,000 (959,803)(665,985)
Capital Improvement Funds
et bo Streets Capital 7,732,597 3,125,000 (5,910,000)2,785,000 7,732,597
Parks Capital 2,831,899 3,605,000 (4,259,100)654,100 2,831,899
Facilities Capital 130,763 224,100 (275,000)50,900 130,763
Admin & Technology Capital 478,444 1,875,000 (1,985,000)110,000 478,444
ARPA/ SLFRF Capital 1,919,958 0
Capital Improvement Funds Total 13,093,661 8,829,100 (12,429,100)3,600,000 11,173,703
Internal Service Funds
Buildings & Facilities 1,933,016 1,440,000 (1,519,807)1,853,210
Information Technology 942,966 846,000 (1,369,086)419,880
Liability & Workers' Comp 1,043,389 2,408,000 (2,038,185)1,413,204
Vehicles & Equipment 1,350,617 550,000 (854,141)1,046,476
Internal Service Funds Total 5,269,988 5,244,000 (5,781,220)4,732,769
All Funds Total $37,917,373 $48,267,162 ($52,702,710)$0 $31,561,867
2025-26 Budget Funds Summary
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 13
Administrative
Services Department
Programs
Administrative Services
Finance
Human Resources
Information Technology
IT Equipment/
Replacement
Office Support
Non-Departmental
Risk Management
Workers Compensation
City Manager &
Community Services
Departments
Programs
City Manager’s Office
City Clerk’s Office
Public Information Office
Public Safety/
Emergency
Preparedness
Recreation
Facility Rentals
Community Engagement
City Funded Events
Community Events
Grants
Community Support
Services
Community
Development
Department
Programs
Development Services
Advanced Planning
Code Compliance
Building Inspection
Facility Maintenance
Furniture, Fixtures, &
Equipment
Public Works
Department
Programs
General Engineering
Development
Engineering
Environmental Services
Streets & Storm Drains
Parks & Landscape
Maintenance
Vehicle & Equipment
Maintenance
Lighting & Landscape
Districts
Capital Improvement
Program
CITY OF SARATOGA ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
Residents of Saratoga
Population 29,607
2023 Census Estimated
City Council
Belal Aftab, Mayor
Chuck Page, Vice Mayor
Tina Walia
Kookie Fitzsimmons
Yan Zhao
City Council
Appointed
Commissions &
Committees City Manager
Matt Morley
City-wide Totals
$39.3 million Operating Budget
$12.4 million Capital Budget
56.6 FTEs*
City Attorney
Richard Taylor
Shute, Mihaley &
Weinberger LLP
The City's organizational structure serves as the foundation for translating its mission and strategic goals into actionable plans and tangible results. By providing a clear framework for operations, decision-making, and resource allocation, the structure enables the City to effectively pursue its mission and serve its residents.
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 14
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL
Department / Program 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26
City Manager's Department
City Manager's Office 2.30 2.30 2.35 2.35 2.35
City Clerk 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10
Public Information Office 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10
Total 4.50 4.50 4.55 4.55 4.55
Administrative Services
Administrative Services 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.00 1.00
Finance 5.25 5.25 5.25 5.50 5.50
Human Resources 1.65 1.65 1.65 1.45 1.50
Information Technology 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.15 2.15
Risk Management 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.45 0.45
Workers' Compensation 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Total 10.75 10.75 10.75 10.75 10.80
Community Development
Development Services 4.65 4.65 4.65 4.65 4.85
Advanced Planning 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.95
Code Compliance 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.10
Building Inspection 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.10
Facilities Maintenance 2.50 2.50 3.25 3.00 3.00
Total 15.50 15.50 16.25 16.00 16.00
Public Works
General Engineering 4.75 5.00 5.00 5.10 5.75
Development Engineering 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40
Environmental Services 1.70 1.70 1.70 1.85 1.25
Streets 7.55 7.30 7.30 7.30 7.30
Parks 8.35 8.35 8.35 8.35 8.35
Vehicle & Equipment Maint 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75
Total 23.50 23.50 23.50 23.75 23.80
Community Services
Recreation 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05
Facility Rentals 1.55 1.55 0.00 0.00 0.00
Community Engagement 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15
Total 2.75 2.75 1.20 1.20 1.20
Public Safety
Emergency Preparedness 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Total 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
All Programs Total 57.25 57.25 56.50 56.50 56.60
Authorized Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Personnel
In the 2025-26 budget, the FTE allocation for the Administrative Analyst in Public Works and the Human Resource Analyst will each increase from 0.75 to 0.8.
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 15
Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) presented a
Distinguished Budget Presentation Award to the City of Saratoga, California, for its Annual Budget
for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024. In order to receive this award, a governmental unit must
publish a budget document that meets program criteria as a policy document, as a financial plan,
as an operations guide, and as a communications device.
This award is valid for a period of fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024 only. We believe our current
budget continues to conform to program requirements, and we are submitting it to GFOA
to determine its eligibility for another award.
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 16
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City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 17
ENABLING RESOLUTIONS
Presented in the order of budgetary impact
Resolution No. 25-034 Budget Adoption
Resolution No. 25-035 Library Series 2011 General Obligation Bonds Debt Service 2025-26 Tax Levy
Resolution No. 25-033 Arrowhead Community Facility District Bond Debt Service 2025-26 Tax Levy
Resolution No. 25-032 2025-26 Appropriations Limit
City Manager’s Budget Message
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 18
STATEMENT OF VALUES
The City of Saratoga strives to maintain a
high quality of life for its residents through
careful planning and infrastructure
maintenance, through activities to build
community, and by providing opportunities
for extensive citizen participation in
community issues. Succinctly, the statement
of values for our City is that:
Saratoga is a Community….
Where the common good prevails;
Where diversity and inclusivity are
celebrated;
Where the community values, respects,
and actively supports the well-being of
seniors, families, and people of all abilities;
Where neighbors and community
members work together for the common
good;
Where the natural beauty of the City and
its hillsides is preserved;
Where historic assets are preserved and
promoted;
Where value is placed on an attractive,
well maintained, and well-planned
community, with a small town, residential
atmosphere;
Where homes and neighborhoods are
safe and peaceful;
Where local businesses provide a vibrant
presence in the Village and the other
commercial areas;
Where desirable recreational and leisure
opportunities are provided;
Where quality education is provided and
valued;
Where the arts and cultural activities
which serve the community and the region
are promoted;
Where government provides high quality,
basic services in a cost-effective manner;
Where government values community
involvement;
Where leadership reflects community
goals; and
Where, because of the forgoing, the
citizens and the families of Saratoga can
genuinely enjoy being a part of and proud
of this special community.
MISSION STATEMENT
Provide essential services which protect health, safety, and welfare, and satisfy
the community’s desires to maintain its quality of while practicing fiscal
responsibility.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 19
City Overview
Located in the foothills of the Santa Cruz
Mountains, approximately 26 miles east of
the Pacific Coast, 10 miles southwest of San
Jose, and 50 miles south of San Francisco,
the City of Saratoga runs along the western
edge of Santa Clara County. Saratoga is an
attractive, residential community with a
small-town feel in the midst of the world-
famous Silicon Valley. It is the gateway to
several distinctive destinations.
The Village, Saratoga’s historic downtown
district, features restaurants, shopping,
galleries, a history museum, and landmarks.
www.facebook.com/SVDC.Saratoga
Hakone Estate and Gardens is a City of
Saratoga park. The oldest Japanese-style
residential gardens in the Western
Hemisphere, Hakone Gardens is also a
center for culture and art. www.hakone.com
Villa Montalvo, is host to an art gallery, an
artist-in-residence program, concerts, plays,
public and private events, and 175 acres of
park grounds and hiking trails.
www.montalvoarts.org
The Mountain Winery, a landmark winery
and event venue, hosts special events, wine
tastings, and world-class concerts.
www.mountainwinery.com
LOCATION
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 20
It began with a sawmill
Although the incorporated City of Saratoga
dates back only to 1956, the town had its
beginning more than a century earlier when
William Campbell began building a sawmill
operation here in 1847 about two and one-
half miles above the present downtown
village, along what is now State Highway 9.
Having spent the winter of 1846/47 in the
abandoned adobe buildings of Mission Santa
Clara, Campbell correctly surmised that the
settlers who were beginning to come to the
Santa Clara Valley would want to build sturdy
wood houses, reminiscent of the homes they
had left in the East. William Campbell saw
opportunity in the Santa Cruz Mountain
timber, and the settlement that would later
become Saratoga owes its start and early
development to that vision.
William Campbell’s sawmill operation was
delayed however after another millwright
constructing a sawmill at the western base of
the Sierra mountains, a hundred and fifty
miles northeast, found gold flakes in the
American River, touching off the 1849
California Gold Rush. In 1850, a young
Irishman named Martin McCarty leased the
sawmill Campbell had started and set about
to improve its access by building a road to
the site. To recoup his investment, McCarty
erected a tollgate near the present
intersection of Third Street and Big Basin
Way and charged a fee for the use of the
road.
It was common practice in those early days
for roads to be built on a private-enterprise
basis, then after a period of time, counties
would take them over and maintain them as
public thoroughfares. In McCarty's case,
although the tollgate was only used for about
a year, it was sufficient for the settlement to
be known as Tollgate for some years
afterward.
Due to the natural resources in the area, the
town had a brief industrial era. With the
settlement situated on a stream and an
abundance of lumber products, a furniture
factory, a tannery where harness and leather
goods were manufactured, and paper mills
were all built along the stream. And, with
Santa Clara Valley’s growing wheat
production, several flour mills were also built.
Due to the collection of mills, the settlement
was known for a short time as Bank Mills.
HISTORY
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 21
City Overview
During the 1850’s local mineral springs with
a chemical content similar to that of
Congress Spring at Saratoga Springs, New
York was discovered below where the
sawmill was located, in a small canyon off
what is now known as Saratoga Creek. The
property was owned by a group of financiers
headed by Darius Ogden Mills, and
eventually a resort was built in the grand
manner of the famous eastern spa.
The elaborate resort hotel Pacific Congress
Springs flourished for almost forty years until
it was destroyed by fire in 1903. The
mountain setting and mild climate had made
Saratoga a popular resort area, and the
resort image lingered through succeeding
years, even as agriculture became the
dominant industry in Saratoga and the Santa
Clara Valley. And while Campbell’s Gap,
Tollgate, McCartysville, and Bank Mills were
at various times used as settlement names,
the community eventually settled on
‘Saratoga’ in 1865.
In the latter part of the 1800’s, the area's
fertile soil and available land developed into
another industry - agriculture. Apricots,
cherries, and French prunes were
particularly well-suited to Saratoga's soil and
climate. Starting in the late 1860’s, the
planting of deciduous fruit trees increased
until it became the chief means of livelihood
for the whole region.
During the late 1880’s, the hillsides were
found to be amenable to viticulture and many
wineries were established. In 1890,
Saratoga became the home of the world-
renowned Paul Masson Winery. Convinced
that the rich California soil could produce
grapes for champagnes comparable to those
of France, the French immigrant Masson
brought grape cuttings from his native land to
plant on the hillsides.
Over time, Saratoga had developed into a
pleasant village and became the trading
center for the surrounding vineyards and
fruit-growing farms. During the early 1900's,
Saratoga had an enviable reputation as a
highly desirable place to live. The Interurban
Rapid Transit of the day began service which
connected Saratoga with the rest of the
Santa Clara Valley and beyond. Saratoga
soon became a haven for wealthy San
Franciscans who came to build elegant
hillside homes overlooking the lush valley.
One of these was the palatial Mediterranean-
style home of the United States Senator
James Phelan. His Villa Montalvo is now a
center for the cultural arts.
After World War II, the valley’s rapid
urbanization changed the character of
Saratoga from agricultural to suburban. As
space technology and the defense and
electronics industries were established in
nearby communities, Saratoga's open land
soon became more valuable for homes for
the rapidly growing population, than it was for
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 22
vineyards and fruit orchards, although some
vineyards and a few scattered orchards do
remain as a reminder of the bygone era. The
City of Saratoga strives to maintain these
elements of its natural beauty and colorful
past through careful zoning policies and
historic preservation.
Public interest was stirred to new heights in
the mid-1950s when, with orchards giving
way to subdivisions, the annexation designs
of the City of San Jose became obvious. As
a result of this concern, Saratogans voted to
incorporate in 1956 and to establish their
own city government.
Saratoga Today
The City of Saratoga, as it exists today, is an
attractive residential community of 30,546
(January 1, 2021) known for its excellent
schools and prestigious neighborhoods. The
community’s historic downtown district,
known as "The Village", has distinctive
dining, unique shops, and numerous
buildings dating back to the late 1800’s and
early 1900’s. Saratoga residents place an
emphasis on historical preservation, and on
retaining the quality of the city’s semi-rural
ambiance.
The City also is home to Villa Montalvo, the
beautiful and palatial former home of Senator
James Duval Phelan which now hosts an art
gallery, an artist in residence program,
concert performances, park trails and
grounds. It serves as a desirable wedding
venue, and reservations must be made a
year in advance.
Another local gem adjacent to City limits is
the former Paul Masson homestead and
winery in the Saratoga foothills, now known
as the “Mountain Winery.” This high-end
event venue features world-class concerts
each spring and summer and is known for
its stunning open-air backdrop and both
hillside and valley views. Hakone Gardens,
the oldest Japanese-style residential
garden in the Western Hemisphere, is
another beautiful park and desirable
wedding venue. The garden lies just
outside of the Village and is maintained and
run by the Hakone Foundation. The
Foundation offers classes, festivals,
Japanese culture, and peaceful,
contemplative walks as one strolls through
the finely manicured gardens.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 23
City Overview
DEMOGRAPHICS
11,124 Households 1
• $241,348 median household income
• $2,000,000+ median value of owner-
occupied house units
• 2.80 persons per household
30,486 Residents1
• 2.1% persons under 5 years of age
• 19.2% persons under 18 years of age
• 25.9% persons 65 years of age and over
• 51.0% female persons
• 81.2% bachelor’s degree or higher
Race 1
• 59.5% Asian
• 34.2% White non-Hispanic or Latino
• 4.6% Two or more races
• 2.5% Hispanic or Latino
• 0.2% American Indian and Alaska Native
• 0.1% Black or African American
Source: 1 US Census Estimate
2 City of Saratoga ACFR as of June 30, 2024
14,700 Total City Employment 2
Top 5 employers:
• West Valley Community College
• Saratoga Retirement Community
• Saratoga Union School District
• The Villas at Saratoga
• Saratoga High School (Los Gatos-
Saratoga UHSD)
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 24
The City of Saratoga’s budget includes
appropriations for a limited portfolio of public
services as detailed below. In addition,
community members are served by several
other governmental and for-profit companies
including fire, utilities, and schools.
CITY SERVICES
Learn about the many City services available
to Saratoga residents and businesses on the
“How Do I” webpage.
Community Development
Community Development guides the
physical growth of the City and preserves the
community’s quality of life by administering
zoning regulations, providing building
inspections, code enforcement, arborist
services, and ongoing advanced planning
activities to maintain the City’s General Plan.
The department also supports the City’s
business community. Learn more on the
Community Development Department
webpage.
Public Works
Public Works oversees engineering and
capital project functions; reviews the public’s
development plans for engineering and
geological oversight; maintains the City’s
parks, trails, medians, right-of-way, grounds,
bridges, and landscape districts; repairs and
maintains the roadways system including
streets, traffic and pedestrian signals,
lighting, and storm drains; provides vehicle
maintenance oversight and minor
maintenance; and ensures the City’s
environmental responsibilities are fulfilled,
including externally-driven responsibilities
under the Clean Water Act and solid waste
mandates. Learn more on the
Public Works Department webpage.
Information about city infrastructure is on
the Current Projects webpage.
Public Safety
The City of Saratoga contracts for law
enforcement services with the Santa Clara
County Sheriff’s Office. Services include
traffic, patrol, and general law enforcement,
as well as ancillary programs to educate the
community on crime prevention, traffic
safety, and emergency response. Animal
control services, including licensing, animal
control, and field and shelter services, are
provided on contract by the City of San Jose
Animal Care and Services Division (SJACS).
Sheriff’s Office:
Information about Santa Clara County
Sheriff’s Office services and activities in are
on the Sheriff’s Office webpage on the City
website.
Animal Control Services (San Jose
Animal Care and Services (SJACS):
www.sanjoseca.gov
The City’s Emergency Preparedness
Program is coordinated by City staff to
support both City and community emergency
response efforts in the event of a significant
earthquake, fire, or other natural or man-
made disasters, and coordinates with
various emergency services agencies and
utilities to prepare residents for self-
sufficiency and proper response to
emergency events. More information is on
the Emergency Preparedness webpage.
RESIDENT SERVICES
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 25
City Overview
General Administration
The City Manager’s Department supports the
Council’s legislative and policy interests,
provides management and leadership, and
direction for the City organization. The City
Manager’s Department also supports
Commissions, interacts with community
groups, fosters community relationships, and
provides public awareness of municipal
programs, services, and goals through
effective community outreach, using
avenues including the City website, media
relations, social media, and various
publications.
https://www.saratoga.ca.us/234/City-
Managers-Department
Administrative Services provides internal
support including finance, human resources,
and information technology services to all
City departments and operations.
https://www.saratoga.ca.us/180/Administrati
ve-Services
OTHER RESIDENT SERVICES
Saratoga residents are served by several
other public agencies and organizations to
complete the portfolio of resident services.
Fire
The Saratoga Fire Protection District and
Santa Clara County Fire District (SCCFD)
provide fire services to the Saratoga
community. Both Districts are operated by
the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
The SCCFD serves Santa Clara County and
the communities of Campbell, Cupertino, Los
Altos, Los Altos Hills, Los Gatos, Monte
Sereno and Saratoga.
https://www.sccfd.org/
Library
The Santa Clara County Library District
serves the cities of Campbell, Cupertino,
Gilroy, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Milpitas,
Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, Saratoga, and
the unincorporated areas of the County.
www.sccld.org/locations/saratoga
Recreation Programs, Facility & Field
Rentals
Saratoga contracts with Los Gatos Saratoga
Recreation (LGS Recreation) for recreation
services. www.lgsrecreation.org
Schools
Saratoga students are served by six school
districts in and around the City of Saratoga.
Depending on where you live in the city, the
public school your children attend may be
located nearby, but outside the City limits.
Saratoga Union School District
www.saratogausd.org
Los Gatos-Saratoga High School District
www.lgsuhsd.org
Cupertino Union School District
www.cusdk8.org
Campbell Union High School District
www.cuhsd.org
Fremont Union High School District
www.fuhsd.org
Campbell Union School District
www.campbellusd.org
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 26
UTILITIES
Electricity and Natural Gas
Pacific Gas and Electricity (PG&E) provides
electric and natural gas to the Saratoga
community. On February 2, 2016, the
Saratoga City Council approved joining a
countywide Community Choice Energy
partnership, Silicon Valley Clean Energy
(SVCE), which provides an option for
residents to purchase 100 percent clean
energy.
PG&E www.pge.com
SVCEwww.svcleanenergy.org
Garbage and Recycling
West Valley Collection & Recycling is the
exclusive recycling, green waste and
garbage hauler for Campbell, Los Gatos,
Monte Sereno, and Saratoga.
www.westvalleyrecycles.com
Sewer
West Valley Sanitation District provides
wastewater collection and disposal services
for the cities of Campbell, Monte Sereno, Los
Gatos, much of Saratoga, and some
unincorporated areas of the county within the
district boundary. Cupertino Sanitary District
provides sewer service to customers within
the communities of Cupertino, portions of
Saratoga, Sunnyvale, Los Altos, and
unincorporated areas within Santa Clara
County.
www.westvalleysan.org
Water
Founded in 1866, San Jose Water is an
investor-owned utility, and is one of the
largest and most technically sophisticated
urban water systems in the United States.
www.sjwater.com
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 27
City Overview
CITY COUNCIL
The City of Saratoga was incorporated in
1956 and operates under a Council/Manager
form of government. City Councilmembers
are elected to staggered four-year terms and
annually select a member of City Council to
serve as mayor and vice-mayor. City Council
appoints two City officials: City Manager and
City Attorney. City Council also appoints
members to the Planning Commission and
several advisory bodies. More information is
on the City Council webpage.
City Council Bodies
Finance Advisory Committee – The
Finance Advisory Committee (previous
formats included the Finance Committee and
the Finance Commission) was originally
formed in 1981 to advise the City Council on
financial matters pertaining to the governing
of the City, as well as on the use of fiscal
resources and the development of
technology for the City. In 2007, the Council
reconstituted the Finance Commission as a
Finance Committee to review financial
matters with the City's Administrative
Services Director in preparation for the City
Council meetings. In 2016-17, the Council
restructured the Committee as a “Committee
of the Whole” to allow all Council Members
to attend Finance Committee meetings and
comment if they so desire, although only the
two appointed members may vote on
recommendations. The two appointed
Council members each serve one-year terms
of office; meetings are held monthly or on an
as-needed basis. In 2024, the committee
name was changed to Finance Advisory
Committee, to clarify its advisory status.
More information is on the Finance Advisory
Committee webpage.
Disaster Council – The Disaster Council is
comprised of the Mayor, City Manager,
Assistant Director of Emergency Services,
and City department heads. The primary
responsibility of the Disaster Council is to
develop the City’s Emergency Operations
Plan and recommend changes to the Plan for
City Council consideration as needed. More
information is on the Disaster Council
webpage.
City Council Appointed Commissions
and Committees
Planning Commission – The seven (7)
member Planning Commission advises
Council on land use matters such as the
General Plan and specific plans, zoning, and
subdivisions. The Commission plans for the
future orderly physical development of the
City and informs and educates the public on
current land use and urban planning issues.
In many areas, the Planning Commission
also acts as a legislative body in making
determinations within the framework of
applicable State laws and City ordinances.
Ultimate decisions on land use reside with
the City Council. Members are required by
State law to file an annual statement of
economic interests. More information is
available on the Planning Commission
webpage.
Heritage Preservation Commission – The
Heritage Preservation Commission,
comprised of seven (7) members, functions
as a liaison working in conjunction with the
Council, the Planning Commission, and the
agencies and departments of the City to
implement the City's Heritage Preservation
Ordinance. The Commission's scope
includes property surveys within the
boundaries of the City of Saratoga for the
purpose of establishing an official inventory
of heritage resources and recommending to
the City Council specific proposals for
designation as a historic landmark, heritage
lane or historic district. One member is
nominated by the Saratoga Historical
Foundation and two members must be
trained and experienced in the field of
construction and structural rehabilitation,
such as a licensed architect, engineer,
contractor, or urban planner. More
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 28
information is on the Heritage Preservation
Commission webpage.
Library and Public Art Commission – The
seven (7) member Library & Public Art
Commission serves as an advisory body on
library and art policies, budgets, plans and
procedures to the City Council, City staff, the
Santa Clara County Library staff, and
Friends of the Saratoga Library. The
Commission also provides counsel and
recommendations to the City Council on
public art, including supporting cultural and
artistic programs in the community, and
fostering a stronger, more inclusive
community. The Commission has no
administrative authority over the library’s
operations but does participate in the general
planning for library operation and library-
related programs and policies. Info: Library
and Public Art Commission
Parks and Recreation Commission – The
Parks and Recreation Commission,
consisting of five (5) members, advises the
Council on matters that relate to parks and
recreation. Principally, the commission
serves as a conduit between the public and
the Council, assesses public input, collects
information, and makes recommendations to
the Saratoga City Council. More information
is on the Parks and Recreation Commission
webpage.
Pedestrian, Equestrian, and Bicycle Trails
Advisory Committee – It is the mission of
the Pedestrian, Equestrian, and Bicycle
Trails Advisory Committee to advise the city
regarding the planning, acquisition, and
development of trails and sidewalks and to
maintain the trails network to enhance the
quality of life in Saratoga. The number of
committee members vary over time,
depending on interest. More information is
on the Trails Advisory Committee webpage.
Traffic Safety Commission – The Traffic
Safety Commission investigates, reviews,
and analyzes traffic safety issues raised by
the Community members and Public Safety
Agencies. The five (5) members meet on a
bi-monthly basis to provide a venue for the
public to express concerns regarding traffic
safety matters. The Commission makes
recommendations to the City regarding traffic
safety. More information is on the Traffic
Safety Commission webpage.
Youth Commission – The Youth
Commission is comprised of eleven (11)
middle and high school students appointed
by the City Council for two-year terms. The
rotating appointments ensure both first- and
second-year members are on the
commission. Commissioners participate in
community activities and serve as a liaison
between the teen community and the City
Council. More information is on the Youth
Commission webpage.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 29
City Overview
On January 24, 2025, the Saratoga City Council convened for its annual retreat to review and
refine the city's strategic goals and objectives. This retreat provided an opportunity for council
members to reflect on past accomplishments, address current challenges, and set priorities for
the coming year in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Strategic Goals and
Objectives support the City’s vision, and mission, and represent the foundation on which City
Council makes decisions. The below list of goals and objectives are considered overall long-term
guidance upon which shorter-term departmental objectives and general direction is developed
and implemented within the City’s budget workplan.
STRATEGIC GOALS & OBJECTIVES
Ensure fiscal responsibility
and transparency, proactively
seeking opportunities for
improvements:
•Strengthen the City’s
fiscal health and stability
•Preserve essential
services
•Effectively manage
revenue streams
•Expend and use fiscal
resources responsibly
•Maintain fund balance
reserves
•Nurture an environment
which attracts, retains,
and expands economic
opportunities
•Support externally funded
community infrastructure
improvements
II. Fiscal Stewardship
Provide a proactive,
responsible, inclusive,
respectful, transparent, and
trustworthy government
dedicated to delivering
effective high-quality
leadership for the community:
•Responsive and
accountable to the
community
•Effective City leadership
•Organization
performance
management
•Transparent government
•Civic engagement
•Community partnerships
I. City Leadership
Provide for a safe and secure
community:
•Preservation of life and
property
•Crime prevention
•Wildfire prevention
•Emergency preparedness
III. Public Safety
Maintain the City's facilities
and public infrastructure in a
safe and sustainable manner
to address the functional
needs of our residents in a
cost-effective manner:
•Excellent street system
•Safe, well-functioning,
and beautiful roadway
Infrastructure
•Well-maintained, safe
parks
•Useful and safe trails and
open space
•Clean, safe, and pleasant
City facilities
•Well-maintained vehicles
and equipment
IV. Facilities &
Infrastructure
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 30
Honor Saratoga's heritage by
preserving significant historic
assets:
•Enhance policies to
maintain the City's
historic heritage
•Enhance standards to
maintain architectural
attractiveness
•Protect Saratoga's natural
beauty
V. Community Heritage
Proactively support
environmental sustainability
efforts:
•Protect and optimize the
City's natural resources
and environment through
sustainable practices
•Establish and implement
comprehensive, long-
range environmental
sustainability goals and
policies
•Embrace environmentally
friendly practices
•Educate the community
on environmental issues
•Reduce the City’s carbon
footprint
VII. Environmental
Sustainability
Foster a culturally enriched and
diverse culture and engaged
community:
•Enhance community
vibrancy and engagement
•Enhance and promote
quality of life in the
community
•Promote health as a
community value
•Cultivate organizational
and leadership potential in
the community
•Foster a business-friendly
environment
•Strengthen Saratoga as an
age friendly city
VI. Community
Enrichment
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 31
City Overview
The City of Saratoga strives to achieve fiscal sustainability and has adopted several policies
included in the Reference Section of this document. The following narrative summarizes the City
Council adopted fiscal stewardship policies. The full policy is available online at
www.saratoga.ca.us/FinancialDocuments.
MAJOR RESERVES
The following summarizes the City Council’s adopted fiscal sustainability policies that support the
City’s approach to balancing the need for quality services to today’s community members while
planning for anticipated and unanticipated financial needs that may impair the City’s ability to
continue service to the community.
Reserve Purpose and Funding Policy
Annual
Funding
Goal
Est. Balance 7/1/25
Hillside
Stability
Reserve
To provide funding for emergency or
extraordinary costs related to hillside
degradation inclusive of slide
prevention and mitigation, slide
repair, and associated drainage and
roadwork that must commence
before the end of the fiscal year.
$100,000, if
balance falls
below $1
million.
$1.00 million
Road &
Facility
Replacement
Reserve
To accrue funding for the major
rehabilitation or replacement of City-
owned roads, buildings, and
structures.
$500,000
$3.70 million
Future Capital
Improvement
Program
Reserve
To accrue funding for future Capital
Improvement Program (CIP)
projects using General Fund
operating surplus remaining after
other funding goals.
n/a
$3.60 million
Fiscal
Stabilization
Reserve
To accrue funds for temporary
budget stabilization caused by fiscal
downturns, natural disasters,
legislative action, claim loss.
$100,000, if
operating
surplus is
more than $1
million.
$3.15 million
FISCAL STEWARDSHIP
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 32
OPERATIONAL RESERVES
Operational reserves are distinguished from Major Reserves in that the reserves are intended to
fulfill commitments arising out of City operations. City Council establishes a threshold level based
on operation.
FINANCIAL POLICIES
The City Council of Saratoga has established
detailed financial policies to guide daily
operations and future planning. Here are
summaries of several significant policies:
ASSETS
Cash and Investments – The City follows a
Council-approved Investment Policy that
aims for fiscal security and sets investment
risk levels within the City's defined security
restrictions and investment objectives. The
Investment Policy is reviewed and adopted
by the Council annually, aligning with the
State's California Debt and Investment
Advisory Commission (CDIAC) guidelines.
Fund reserves and excess operational
funding requirements are deposited in the
California State Treasurers’ Local Agency
Investment Fund (LAIF) or CalTRUST, a
Joint Powers Authority local government
investment pool, unless explicitly approved
by the City Council to invest in other vehicles
as allowed by the Investment Policy.
Administrative Services oversees Treasury
functions and provides monthly Treasurer's
Reports on City funds, investments, and
interest earnings.
Fixed Assets & Infrastructure – Tangible
assets with a cost equal to or greater than
$10,000 and a useful life of more than one
Reserve Purpose and Funding
Policy
Annual
Funding Goal
Est. Balance 7/1/24
Carryforward
Reserve
To provide funding for year-
end purchases that will record
as a transaction in the next
fiscal year and cannot be
accrued to the prior year.
As necessary
at year end.
$0.10 million
Working Capital
Reserve
To accrue sufficient funds to
meet General Fund
obligations for sixty (60) days
and avoid use of short-term
borrowing for cashflow
management.
As necessary
to maintain a
$1 million
balance at
year-end.
$1.00 million
Compensated
Absences
Reserve
To accrue funds to smooth
expenditure fluctuations
resulting from the payout of
accrued leave to employees
at their separation from city
employment.
One-third (1/3)
of the liability
as calculated
each June 30.
$0.33 million
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 33
City Overview
year are considered fixed assets and
included in the capitalization schedules.
Repairs and maintenance of infrastructure
assets are typically not capitalized unless
they extend the asset's useful life. The City
maintains a long-term fiscal perspective
through a five-year Capital Improvement
Program, which focuses on maintaining the
quality of City infrastructure. Internal Service
Fund programs are also utilized to maintain
and replace operational infrastructure, such
as City buildings, fixtures, equipment,
vehicles, public works equipment, and
technology-related equipment. Asset
information is retained to facilitate the
preparation of financial statements in
accordance with Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles (GAAP) and
compliance with Governmental Accounting
Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 34
requirements.
LIABILITIES
Pension Liabilities – In pursuit of prudent
fiscal practices and long-term financial
sustainability, the City employs various
strategies to mitigate the overall cost of
pension benefits and prior-year liabilities.
These strategies include offering lower-tier
pension benefits for new employees, making
lump sum prepayments, and accelerating
unfunded pension liability payments.
Long-Term Debt – Saratoga's debt policy
adheres to State regulations and accounting
standards. The City does not typically incur
debt for operational or capital improvements.
In exceptional circumstances, the City may
seek voter approval for bonded debt, either
city-wide or through Community Facility
Districts.
FUND BALANCE
The City reserves a portion of its funds for
future use to maintain fiscal stability, ensure
orderly government operations, provide
services to residents, and mitigate current
and future risks. The City Council determines
when and whether to appropriate available
funds to and from a reserve account based
on specific directions in the annual budget or
separate City Council actions, unless
otherwise specified by policy. Adequate
reserves are maintained for all known
liabilities and established City Council and
community-directed initiatives, reflecting
responsible fiscal stewardship.
REVENUES
Cost Recovery (User Fees) – Saratoga's
Fee Schedule catalogs fees charged for
services to the community, with varying
levels of general taxpayer support. Planning
and building services provided by the
Community Development department aim for
full cost recovery for certain land uses and
improvements that primarily benefit the
property owner. However, other services
provided by Community Development offer
greater community-wide benefits, and the
City Council policy sets a lower cost recovery
for those services, such as code compliance
and event permits. The most recent
comprehensive review of user fees and the
cost of services was completed in 2022. The
fee schedule establishes fees in Community
Development to achieve an overall cost
recovery for planning and building services
of up to 90%. Annual escalators may be
considered by the City Council to ensure that
fees remain reasonably current with
underlying personnel costs.
Grants and Donations - The City
recognizes the value of grants and donations
in extending existing services, introducing
new initiatives, enhancing artistic and
cultural infrastructure, implementing
technological advances, and subsidizing
programmatic staffing for various purposes
such as public safety, recreational activities,
development support, social services,
homeland security, and economic efforts.
Saratoga actively pursues federal, state,
local, foundation, business, and private
grants that align with the City's priorities and
provide a benefit, considering grant
requirements.
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 34
EXPENDITURES
Expenditure Budget Management -
Expenditures must adhere to the City's
purchasing policy, travel policy, credit card
policy, contract policy, public contract code,
state or federal law, and other applicable
guidelines or regulations. Expenditure
management occurs at the program level.
The City Manager has the authority to
transfer appropriations within a fund in the
adopted budget, while the City Council
retains authority for appropriation increases
and decreases, transfers between funds,
and scope and funding changes to Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) projects.
Capital Improvement Program - The City
maintains five Capital Improvement Program
(CIP) project areas that are comprised of
multiple discrete projects. Unspent project
funds carryover automatically from year to
year, restricted to the project receiving the
original appropriations unless directed
otherwise by City Council through a formal
budget amendment. In the case of some
projects, the City may appropriate funds over
serval years sufficient to accumulate the
necessary amount to complete a project.
The City Council has established a policy
that allocates all revenue received in the
budget year with a roadway nexus to fund the
Pavement Management Program. For the
2025-26 fiscal year, the total revenue from
various sources with a roadway nexus
amounts to $3.1 million. This includes
revenue generated from State Gas Taxes
and the Roadway Rehabilitation Fund (SB1),
the City's Refuse Vehicle Impact Fee, and
Santa Clara County Measure B Sales
Taxes.
In addition to funding the Annual Pavement
Management Program, the City Council has
set a funding goal of $1.5 million for nine
priority projects within the Capital
Improvement Program. These priority
projects receive special attention and
resources to address their specific needs
and importance to the City.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 35
City Overview
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FUNDING PRIORITIES
Project Name Annual Funding
Goal
2025-26
Funded Level
Project
Description
Page
Annual Pavement Management
Program
100% dedicated
PMP revenues:
Gas Taxes,
Roadway
Rehabilitation
Fund (SB1),
Refuse Vehicle
Impact Fee, Santa
Clara County
Measure B Sales
Taxes
100%
dedicated
revenues
181
Annual Sidewalk, Storm Drains,
Curb & Gutter, and Bridge
Infrastructure
$250,000 100% 190
Hillside Stabilization Infrastructure $250,000 200% 207
Annual Parks, Trails, Grounds and
Medians Infrastructure $250,000 100% 212
Annual Retaining Wall Infrastructure $200,000 100% 205
Park and Trail Fire Mitigation $200,000 175% 228
Annual Roadway Safety and Traffic
Calming Infrastructure $150,000 100% 183
ADA Transition Plan Implementation $100,000 100% 248
*Annual Public Art Infrastructure $25,000 0% 249
Annual Hakone Gardens
Infrastructure $25,000 100% 216
*In 2025-26, a one-time change was made to reduce Public Art funding by $25K, increase
Hillside Infrastructure to $500K, and Park & Trail Fire Mitigation to $349K.
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 36
PURPOSE
The budget serves multiple purposes and
functions as a comprehensive financial plan
for each fiscal year beginning July 1st. It is
not only a document outlining the City's
financial activities for a specific fiscal year,
but also serves as a policy document, a tool
for communication, and a guide to City
operations.
The budget focus is on long-term financial
stewardship, sustainability, service delivery,
and program management. It plays a crucial
role in articulating the City's annual strategic
plan by connecting the overall goals and
objectives to the specific services and
projects that the City intends to accomplish.
It also highlights the resources allocated for
these endeavors.
To facilitate this linkage, the program-based
budget presents programs organized under
a main department. The program budgets
identify the purpose of each program,
outlines key projects, and sets workplan
goals in relation to revenue and expenditure
appropriations. Programs evolve year-over-
year and can move between department
umbrellas as operations change. This
ensures transparency and accountability in
the allocation and utilization of funds.
The City adopts an annual budget that
includes appropriations for both operating
and capital improvement program
expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year.
The budget is presented as a summary level
budget document that reflects the City's
financial statements and follows industry
standards and best practices.
BASIS OF BUDGETING AND
ACCOUNTING
The budget is developed on a program basis
with fund level authority, representing the
services and functions provided by the City
in alignment with the allocated resources for
the fiscal year. The Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) is funded and defined by its
approved projects, and any ongoing or
incomplete projects are re-appropriated into
the following fiscal year.
The Basis of Accounting and Budget refers
to the timing factor concept in recognizing
transactions. This basis plays a crucial role
in the overall financial system as the budget
determines the accounting system used. For
example, if the budget anticipates revenues
on a cash basis, only cash revenues are
recorded as receipts in the accounting
system. Similarly, if the budget uses an
accrual basis, the accounting system follows
suit. This consistency is also reflected in the
City's Annual Comprehensive Financial
Report (ACFR), the State Controller's Annual
Cities Transactions Report, and all other
report documents.
Government budgets and accounting employ
a mix of accounting methods. A hybrid cash
and accrual accounting system known as
"Modified Accrual Basis" is used, which
recognizes revenues when measurable and
available.
Saratoga adopts the modified accrual basis,
and the basis of budgeting is identical to the
basis of accounting. The City considers all
revenues reported in the governmental funds
to be available if they are collected within 45
days after the fiscal year-end. Revenues
such as licenses, property taxes, and
taxpayer-assessed tax revenues (e.g.,
franchise taxes, sales taxes, and transient
occupancy tax) are considered susceptible
to accrual and recognized as revenues in the
ANNUAL BUDGET PROCESS
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 37
City Overview
period earned/collected. Revenues from
grants and donations are recognized in the
fiscal year when all eligibility requirements
have been satisfied. Expenditures are
recorded when the liability is incurred.
Claims, judgments, compensated absences,
and principal and interest on general long-
term debt are recognized as expenditures to
the extent that they have matured.
The Modified Accrual Basis is used for
governmental funds, while the full accrual
basis accounting method is used for
proprietary funds. Governmental Funds
consist of the General Fund, Special
Revenue Funds, Debt Service Funds, and
Capital Project Funds. Under this basis,
revenues are estimated for the period if they
are susceptible to accrual, meaning that the
amounts can be determined and will be
collected within the current period. Principal
and interest on general long-term debt are
budgeted as expenditures when due, while
other expenditures are budgeted for liabilities
expected to be incurred during the current
period.
Proprietary fund budgets are adopted using
the full accrual basis of accounting. Revenue
budget projections are developed by
recognizing revenues expected to be earned
during the period, and expenditures are
developed for expenses anticipated to be
incurred in the fiscal year. The City maintains
one type of proprietary fund: Internal Service
Funds.
While not currently heavily utilized in
Saratoga, Fiduciary Funds are also
budgeted using the modified accrual basis.
This includes Trust Funds, which are subject
to trust agreement guidelines, and Agency
Funds, which are held in a custodial capacity
involving only the receipt, temporary
investment, and remittance of resources.
BUDGET PROCESS
The City conducts a team-based budgeting
approach, where the City Manager and
Administrative Services Director guide the
process, but program budgets and
workplans are developed under the oversight
and expertise of each department's director
or program manager. This approach allows
for hands-on planning and ensures a clear
understanding of program goals and
functions to be accomplished in the next
budget year. Saratoga's City Code, Section
2-20.050(i), mandates the City Manager to
prepare and submit an annual budget to the
City Council.
The general budget development calendar
follows the outlined timeline, but it may vary
based on operational and policy needs:
January - The budget development process
begins with the City Manager working with
the City Council to develop and refine
initiatives and directives for the upcoming
budget year. Concurrently, a multi-year
financial forecast is developed and
presented for Council review during the
annual Council Retreat. This forecast
provides an overview of service level
operations and helps guide the discussion on
upcoming budget direction. The Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) is also reviewed
to determine funding capabilities, project
priorities, and refine project workplans. CIP
projects have a significant impact on the
City's ongoing operations and are therefore
a crucial part of financial planning.
February – The budget preparation process
kicks off in earnest. Budget assumptions,
directives, and initiatives are provided to
establish the City's overall objectives and
goals. Over the next few months, staff
identifies and analyzes program revenue and
expenditure projections. CIP projects
undergo assessment and refinement, and
CIP funding and appropriation requirements
are finalized. The community has an
opportunity to attend Finance Advisory
Committee, Planning Commission, and City
Council meetings to provide input on the
budget process.
City Overview
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 38
March through May - Staff assembles the
proposed budgets through rounds of
briefings and revisions. Financial summary
information is finalized, and the proposed
budget document is prepared for City
Council review. In accordance with Section
65401 of the State Government Code, the
City's Planning Commission reviews the
proposed Capital Improvement Program and
reports back to the City Council regarding its
conformity with the City's Adopted General
Plan.
May through June – The City Council
considers final budget adoption through a
two-step process. First, a public hearing is
conducted, with notice of the hearing
published in a local newspaper at least ten
days prior to the hearing date. The public is
invited to participate, and copies of the
proposed budgets are made available for
review on the City's website, in the City
Manager's Office, and at the budget hearing.
Final revisions directed by the Council are
incorporated into the proposed budget, and
the budget documents are resubmitted for
adoption in a publicly announced meeting
before the start of the fiscal year.
BUDGET AMENDMENT AUTHORITY
During the fiscal year, it is possible for
economic factors, changes in workplans, or
unforeseen needs to arise, requiring
adjustments to the adopted budgets. In such
cases, the City Manager is authorized to
make transfers of appropriations between
categories, departments, projects, and
programs within a fund, as outlined in the
adopted budget.
However, the City Council retains discretion
over fund-level and Capital Improvement
Program project appropriation changes, as
well as transfers between funds. This
ensures that significant changes to City
operations are reviewed and approved by
the governing body. By granting the City
Manager the authority for intra-fund budget
transfers and reserving certain decisions for
the City Council, the budgeting process
maintains a balance between operational
flexibility and the need for oversight and
accountability in managing public funds.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 39
City Overview
2025-26 BUDGET TIMELINE
1/24/2025
City Council Retreat
Mid-year update and financial forecast of operating budget and Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) Preview
2/11/2025
Finance Advisory Committee
Financial Policies - Comprehensive review & update of City Council adopted
financial policies and general financial operating policies
2/19/2025 City Council
CIP Prioritization Meeting
3/10/2025
Finance Advisory Committee
Financial Policies Proposed Draft
Proposed Fee Changes
4/7/2025
Finance Advisory Committee
Long-Term Financial Strategies
Proposed Fee Changes
Final Financial Policies Review
4/16/2025 City Council
Fee Schedule Public Hearing
5/12/2025
Finance Advisory Committee
2025-26 draft Proposed Operating Budget
Review enabling 2025-26 Resolutions: Gann Limit, General Obligation (GO)
Bond Rate, and Arrowhead Assessment review Proposed Summer recess
June through August)
5/21/2025 City Council
2026 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget Public Hearing
6/18/2025 City Council
2026 Operating and Capital Budget Adoption Enabling Resolutions adopted
7/1/2025 Start of fiscal 2025-26
Overview
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
40
FY21
Actuals
FY22
Actuals
FY23
Actuals
FY24
Actuals
FY25
Estimated
FY26
Budget
Revenues 26,405,189 26,873,597 29,213,545 32,615,292 33,031,684 32,555,809
Expenditures 23,238,768 23,724,585 25,572,201 26,991,735 29,933,464 32,487,340
Operating Balance 3,166,421 3,149,012 3,641,345 5,623,557 3,098,219 68,469
$0
$5
$10
$15
$20
$25
$30
$35
Mi
l
l
i
o
n
s
OVERVIEW
This budget is balanced while addressing financial challenges such as rising pension costs,
implementing the new maintenance plan for the City's trees, and the rising contract costs for
landscaping and maintenance. Although the 2025-26 budget is balanced, it relies on $2.3 million
from interest earnings and excess Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund (ERAF), both of
which are subject to fluctuations in the future. The ongoing trend of expenditures outpacing
revenues will continue to present challenges for maintaining a balanced budget, as illustrated in
the chart below.
This section provides a summary of the most impactful drivers of the General Fund’s finances.
General Fund Revenue & Expenditures
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
41
GENERAL FUND REVENUES
General Fund Revenues
Five revenue sources make up 90 percent of Saratoga’s resources available for General Fund
operations: 1) Property Tax, 2) Sales Tax, 3) Charge for Services, and 4) Interest Earnings. Other
revenue categories, such as rental income, transient occupancy tax, and construction tax, are
also important to the overall revenue picture, but fluctuations in these revenues do not individually
impact the City’s fiscal sustainability.
Property Taxes
The property taxes in Saratoga play a crucial
role in funding essential services such as law
enforcement, public works, and general
administration. The property tax system in
California underwent significant changes
with the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978.
At that time, Saratoga was a no/low property
tax city, meaning it had relatively low
property tax rates compared to other cities.
In Saratoga, a resident's property taxes
allocated to support city services are limited
to a minimum amount required by law, which
ranges from $0.055 to $0.075 per $1 of base
property taxes, depending on tax rate area.
For example, assuming the City received
$0.07 per $1 of base property tax and a
property has a Prop 13 assessed value of
$2.0 million, the base property tax bill would
be $20,000 per year. Out of that amount, the
city would receive $1,400 to fund essential
services. The remaining portion of property
taxes goes to other districts such as schools,
fire departments, community colleges, and
the County of Santa Clara to support
services provided by those entities.
Changes in Saratoga's base property tax
revenue stem from three factors. Prop 13
allows for a maximum 2.0 percent increase
in assessed values based on the California
411 -Property
Taxes 20,582,155
63%
413 -Other Taxes
2,440,920 7%
416 -Franchises
& Surcharges
1,203,965 4%420 -
Intergovernmental
592,300 2%440 -Charges for
services
6,179,389 19%
450 -Fines &
penalties 46,000
0%
460 -Use of money &
property 1,511,080 5%
2025-26 General Fund Revenues by Type
$32.6 million
Overview
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
42
Consumer Price Index. Additionally, when a
property undergoes a change in ownership,
its Prop 13 assessed value adjusts to 100
percent of its market valuation, which can
lead to significant increases compared to
previous assessments. Finally, Prop 13
assessed values can increase by 100
percent of building improvements, such as
new construction, major remodeling, or
additions.
Property tax revenues in California are
further complicated by state actions that
redirected funds away from cities to fulfill
obligations to schools and reduce motor
vehicle license fees. The Educational
Revenue Augmentation Fund (ERAF)
transfers property taxes that were previously
allocated directly to local agencies, including
cities and fire districts, to meet the state's
education funding requirements statewide. In
Santa Clara County and several other
counties in California, the amount of ERAF
withheld from cities exceeds the amount
required by state funding formulas. As a
result, cities receive a refund of the excess
ERAF, which amounts to approximately $1
million in 2025-26. The calculation and
distribution of excess ERAF are monitored
by the Santa Clara County Controller's
Office, as any changes in laws or legal cases
could impact this amount.
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
43
Future distributions of excess ERAF are
currently uncertain. The state and Santa
Clara County are currently reviewing the
distribution of the funds, with the state
potentially attempting to claw back funds
from the county. This poses a significant
risk to future funding available for the City.
Another component of the city's property
taxes is known as "property tax in-lieu of
vehicle license fees." This component
compensates cities for the loss of vehicle
license fees due to changes in state tax
policies in the early 2000s.
The 2025-26 budget assumes a 5.5 percent
increase in base property tax revenues and
projects an additional $100,000 in Excess
ERAF growth. However, no increase is
expected in transfer tax revenues, as these
have declined in recent years due to a limited
supply of properties for sale.
Overview
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
44
Franchises & Surcharges:
Franchise and encroachment fees in
California are charges imposed on utilities
such as electricity, gas, telecommunications,
and solid waste services. These fees help
local agencies offset the costs of maintaining
the infrastructure necessary for these utilities
to operate within a city. The largest franchise
fee in Saratoga is related to solid waste
services provided by the West Valley Solid
Waste Management Authority (WVSWMA),
amounting to approximately $1.5 million in
2025-26.
In 2023-24, the Zolly v. City of Oakland case
raised questions about the legality of
Oakland’s solid waste franchise fee,
prompting cities and solid waste providers
statewide to reassess these fees. A recent
study, however, found that the fee could be
justified as an encroachment fee. As a result,
the WVSWMA expects the fee to continue.
Beginning in 2024-25, this revenue is
classified as encroachment revenue and
reported under Charges for Services instead
of Franchise Fees.
Charges for Services
The category includes fees, licenses,
permits, and revenue generated from
development activity. The 2025-26 budget
includes revenue estimates that reflect fees
as a result of City Council policy direction to
achieve overall cost recovery in Community
Development’s planning services of up to
90% overall cost recovery in the
department’s building services.
To arrive at revenue estimates, City staff
review current and past activity. Historical
activity has shown that in general, during
times of economic prosperity, property
values grow and both new home buyers and
long-term homeowners undertake
remodeling projects. During economic
downturns, property values decline or
become stagnant, and remodeling activity
also decreases.
Construction activity varies significantly from
year to year and responds quickly to
economic changes, making it difficult to
predict using trend lines. Therefore, the
2025-26 budget for charges for services is
moderately conservative, as this revenue
often signals early signs of an economic
downturn or recession.
Other Taxes
Both sales and transient occupancy taxes
have fully recovered from the devastating
impacts of the pandemic. For 2025-26, the
budget assumes relatively flat growth from
the prior year estimated actual revenue
based on estimates provided by the City’s
sales tax consultant showing slowed
spending in fuel and food services.
Use of Money & Property
This category includes revenue generated
from the City’s investments and the
management of its assets. The primary
sources are interest earnings from the City’s
funds invested in the Local Agency
Investment Fund (LAIF) a state-run
investment pool managed by the California
State Treasurer and CalTRUST, an
independent joint powers authority
investment pool designed specifically for
California public agencies. These investment
vehicles provide the City with professional
portfolio management, liquidity, and
diversification.
Additionally, smaller sources of revenue in
this category include lease payments, facility
fees, and rental income from City-owned
properties.
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
45
GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES
The 2025-26 General Fund budgeted expenditures show a $2.6 million increase compared to the
estimated actual expenditures for 2024-25 with the majority of the increases coming from contract
services and salaries and benefits. Salaries and benefits constitute 32 percent of the budgeted
expenditures in the 2025-26 budget. However, when including the UAL payments, this category
accounts for 38 percent of the total budget.
Public Safety contract services represents
the next largest portion of the budget,
comprising 28 percent. Internal Service Fund
charges make up 15 percent of the budget
and serve as the City's reimbursement for
insurance premiums, support services, and
fixed asset and infrastructure replacement
costs.
For year-over-year comparison, it is
important to note that the budget is typically
based on maintaining the same level of
service as the prior year, with adjustments
made for expected growth or decline in costs.
Certain areas, such as Sheriff Services or
staff salary and benefit costs, have
contractual obligations in place. Reducing
these areas would necessitate personnel
reductions and could impact the City's ability
to provide services or maintain public safety
levels.
500 -Salaries &
Benefits
10,527,698 32%
529 -UAL Payoff
1,533,492 5%
610 -Operating
Expenses
1,869,756 6%640 -Contract Services
3,363,530 10%
648 -Public
Safety Contract
Services
9,246,105 28%
650 -
Professional
Services
1,150,600 4%
790 -Internal
Services
4,796,159 15%
2025-26 General Fund Expenditures by Type
$32.5 million
Overview
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
46
Salaries and Benefits
The General Fund's personnel budget, which
comprises salaries and benefits, assumes
full staffing throughout the year, meaning
that there are no salary savings resulting
from vacancies. In the past, the City has filled
vacancies using contract staff, and no
budget amendment is processed unless the
backfill requires a net increase to the overall
General Fund budget.
The estimated actual expenditures for 2024-
25 include salary savings from various
vacant positions that occurred during the
year. The year-over-year salary increases
observed in these departments, therefore, do
not reflect an increase in full-time equivalent
personnel but rather reflect the City's
practice of assuming no vacancies during the
budgeting process.
The 2025-26 personnel budget reflects
higher costs from rising CalPERS
contributions, and partial-year increases in
health and welfare benefits. It also includes
a modest increase in staffing, with a 0.05
full-time equivalent personnel (FTE)
increase each for the Public Works
Administrative Analyst and Human
Resources Analyst positions. Together,
these changes add $16,000 to personnel
costs compared to the previous year.
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
47
Unfunded Pension Liability Payment
As of June 30, 2023, the City of Saratoga’s
Miscellaneous pension plan had a funded
ratio of 79.1%, according to the most recent
CalPERS actuarial valuation. This means
that the plan’s assets cover 79.1% of its
projected pension obligations, with the
remaining 20.9% representing the unfunded
accrued liability (UAL). The UAL as of this
valuation date is a key metric for the City’s
long-term financial planning. The funded
status reflects a CalPERS net investment
return of 5.8% for the 2022-23 fiscal year,
which was below the actuarial discount rate
of 6.8%.
As a result, the funded ratio decreased
compared to the prior year. For the 2025-26
fiscal year, the City’s required employer
contribution rates are set by CalPERS and
are expected to increase moderately to
address the unfunded liability and ensure the
plan’s long-term sustainability. Future
contribution requirements may fluctuate
based on investment returns, changes in
actuarial assumptions, and demographic
experience.
Contract Services
The City has made a strategic decision to
rely heavily on contract services rather than
grow employee headcount to trim trees,
parks, landscape and median maintenance,
and supplemental staff in cost recovery
programs such as Community Development.
The 2025-26 budget preserves the service
levels needed to achieve an 8 out of 10 rating
for the City’s parks and facilities. For
landscaping and maintenance contracts, the
budget includes a placeholder amount to
account for ongoing price increases and the
uncertainty of the upcoming bidding process.
Final contract costs will be determined after
the budget public hearing, and any
necessary budget adjustments will be made
during the new fiscal year.
Public Safety Contract Services
Public safety remains a top priority for
Saratoga City Council members and
residents. Since the city's incorporation in
1956, the City has contracted with the Santa
Clara County Sheriff's Office for public safety
services, which has proven to be a beneficial
partnership in various ways. As a small city,
Saratoga saves millions of dollars annually
by contracting public safety services instead
of maintaining an in-house police
department, which would be more costly.
The City also contracts with the City of San
Jose for animal control services.
The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office is a
large organization with 1,300 sworn officers
and the ability to allocate resources to
contract cities as needed. This provides
flexibility for times when additional resources
are required, while keeping services at a
minimum during most periods. The Sheriff's
Office offers all the services that an internal
police department would provide, including
patrol, traffic enforcement, investigations,
crime analysts, technology services, public
outreach, canines, and other valuable law
enforcement services. The Sheriff's Office
contract provides 20,060 general law
enforcement service hours, 4,195 traffic
enforcement hours, 2,400 investigative
hours, 68 reserve activity hours, and a full-
time School Resource Officer.
In the 2025-26 budget, the Public Safety
contract services accounts for 28 percent of
the City's General Fund budget. This is
favorable compared to other Santa Clara
County municipalities that allocate upwards
of 40 percent or more of their General Fund
budgets for in-house police services.
Saratoga's cost for Sheriff Services per
resident is one of the lowest, or very near the
lowest, among all Santa Clara County cities
each year.
In addition to cost savings, the City benefits
from low crime rates due to its partnership
with the Santa Clara County Office of the
Sheriff. Being part of a larger law
Overview Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 48
enforcement organization allows deputies to
be aware of criminal activity throughout the
county, not just within Saratoga. This
broader communication reach enables
deputies and crime analysts to identify
targeted areas, criminal patterns, crime
activity connections, and suspects. Year
after year, Saratoga is recognized for its low
crime rate at both state and national levels
by various public safety organizations.
Fixed Assets
When there are new fixed assets needed,
funding is sourced from the department's
operating budget. Once purchased, funding
for replacing these fixed assets is allocated
to the "owners" over the asset's projected
lifetime, with the aim of building up
accumulated funding in the relevant
replacement fund. The applicable
replacement funds are the IT Replacement
Fund, the Vehicle & Equipment Replacement
Fund, and the Furniture, Fixtures &
Equipment Replacement Fund.
Internal Service Funds
The City employs Internal Service Funds
(ISF) to establish centralized cost centers for
shared expenses and services, allowing for
efficient cost tracking and resource
management. Costs are allocated back to
operational programs based on usage,
ensuring that program expenditure reflects
the fully burdened cost of service. These
charges are treated as expenses in the
General Fund programs and revenues in the
ISFs.
There are nine ISFs: two Insurance funds
(Risk Management and Workers
Compensation), four Service/Support funds
(Office Support, IT Services, Vehicle &
Equipment Maintenance, and Facility
Maintenance Funds), and the three Asset
Budget Discussion
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
49
Replacement funds mentioned in the Fixed
Assets section above. With the exception of
the Office Support Fund, which serves as a
centralized cost center for copy and mail
machines as well as centralized purchases
of paper and related supplies, the service-
based ISF funds have dedicated staff
assigned to the programs. Ongoing
increases in salary and benefits, along with
other operational costs, contribute to rising
expenditure in these funds each year.
*A Net Expenditure means General Fund Reserves are used to fund capital projects. The 2025-
26 budget includes a $3.6 million transfer from the Future Capital Project Reserve to support
capital programs. Full funding details for the Capital Program begin on page 176.
Revenue & Expenditures
Category 2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Estimate
2025-2026
Budget
Revenue
411 - Property Taxes $19,305,458 $19,810,367 $20,582,155
413 - Other Taxes 2,575,000 2,382,487 2,440,920
416 - Franchises & Surcharges 1,246,296 1,282,942 1,203,965
420 - Intergovernmental 533,000 588,655 592,300
440 - Charges for services 5,501,121 6,893,301 6,179,389
450 - Fines & penalties 46,500 46,131 46,000
460 - Use of money & property 1,429,695 2,027,801 1,511,080
Revenue Total $30,637,070 $33,031,684 $32,555,809
Expense
500 - Salaries & Benefits $10,188,700 $9,922,854 $10,527,698
529 - UAL Payoff 1,350,000 1,350,000 1,533,492
610 - Operating Expenses 2,045,885 1,908,762 1,869,756
640 - Contract Services 2,780,950 2,544,443 3,363,530
648 - Public Safety Contract Services 8,792,685 8,793,685 9,246,105
650 - Professional Services 1,108,615 1,097,803 1,150,600
790 - Internal Services 4,315,918 4,315,918 4,796,159
Expense Total $30,582,753 $29,933,464 $32,487,340
900 - Transfer to Capital Program 3,214,625 3,214,625 3,600,000
Net Revenue / (Expenditures) ($3,160,308) ($116,406) ($3,531,531)
City Council Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budge 50
Department Overview
The City Council and Commissions Department budget captures the revenue and expenditures of the
governing body, City Council, and the City Council’s appointed Commissioners and advisory bodies. The
City Council establishes City policy and serves as the decision-making body. The City Council acts upon
recommendations from advisory bodies and City staff and then provides direction to the City Manager for
implementation. Both the City Council and City Commissions play a key role in the implementation of
the Council’s Strategic Goals. Current commissions include the Heritage Preservation Commission,
Library and Public Art Commission, Planning Commission, Traffic Safety Commission and the Youth
Commission.
City Council & Commissions Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
City Council &
Commissions
City Council -161,502 -162,532 -232,845 -273,538 -272,695 -287,086
Commissions -55,451 -39,306 -48,012 -63,243 -63,243 -61,092
City Council &
Commissions Total (216,953) (201,838)(280,856) (336,781)(335,938)(348,178)
City Council Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 51
PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
City Council Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budge 52
City Council
Program Net Revenue / (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
City Council
Revenue 0 1,230 1,400 700 1,543 0
440 - Charges for services 0 1,230 1,400 700 1,514 0
460 - Use of money & property 0 0 29 0
Expense 161,502 163,762 234,245 274,238 220,588 287,086
500 - Salaries & Benefits 16,338 16,423 16,576 16,000 16,750 16,500
610 - Operating Expenses 44,917 52,891 92,826 123,700 77,300 124,700
650 - Professional
Services 8,700 3,944 7,700 8,000 0 8,000
790 - Internal Services 91,548 90,504 117,143 126,538 126,538 137,886
City Council Total (161,502) (162,532) (232,845) (273,538) (219,045) (287,086)
The City Council establishes City policy and
serves as the decision-making body. The City
Council acts upon recommendations from
advisory bodies and City staff and then provides
directions to the City Manager for
implementation. Both the City Council and City
Commissions play a key role in the
implementation of the Council’s Strategic Goals.
Key services include:
•Represent the residents and community of
Saratoga.
•Provide community leadership as the
legislative and policy-making body.
•Represent the City of Saratoga in
coordination with other local, county, state,
and federal agencies.
•Oversee the City’s Commissions and provide
support to community organizations on
emergent issues.
•Work with the community to identify needs
and issues in the City.
•Manage City finances in a fiscally
conservative and forward-thinking manner.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
•No notable budget changes this fiscal year.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
•Fiscal Responsibility – Continue to closely
monitor economic conditions to ensure that
City finances can be adjusted as needed and
essential services remain operational and
enable the City to proactively seek
opportunities to improve the strength of the
City’s finances.
•Community Engagement – Continue to
strengthen the sense of community, increase
inclusiveness, and celebrate Saratoga’s
diversity.
•Local Economy – Encourage the
improvement and stability of the local
economy and enhance business
development by creating an environment
that supports the City’s business community.
•Sustainability – Continue to monitor water
consumption, energy use, and carbon
emissions to identify and realize
opportunities to make Saratoga a more
sustainable community.
•City Ordinance Updates – Initiate the City’s
planning process to revise and update key
City ordinances to ensure the City Code
reflects Saratoga’s regulatory needs and can
be easily enforced.
•Long Term Planning – Continue long term
planning efforts to maintain Saratoga’s
excellent quality of life and guide the City’s
future development.
City Council Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 53
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City Council Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budge 54
Commissions and Committees
Commissions & Committees Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Commissions & Committees
Expense 55,451 39,306 48,012 63,243 50,873 61,092
500 - Salaries & Benefits 12,595 13,564 13,564 12,600 13,230 12,600
610 - Operating Expenses 32,751 15,647 19,316 30,100 17,100 26,000
790 - Internal Services 10,104 10,095 15,131 20,543 20,543 22,492
Commissions & Committees
Total (55,451) (39,306) (48,012) (63,243) (50,873) (61,092)
Commissions and City Committees are
designated bodies that provide specialized
advice or other assistance to the City Council
and City staff. Commissioners apply for and are
appointed by the City Council to serve four-year
terms. Youth Commissioners are appointed to
two-year terms. At least one City staff member
is assigned to each Commission to provide
general support and ensure that agenda
preparation, posting, minutes, and other meeting
elements are fulfilled as required under the
Brown Act. Currently, there are six active
Commissions and two Committees to advise the
City Council on specific issues: Heritage
Preservation Commission, Library & Public Art
Commission, Parks & Recreation Commission,
Planning Commission, Traffic Safety
Commission, Youth Commission, Council
Finance Committee, and Disaster Council. Key
services include:
•Provide specialized advice and assistance to
Council.
•Broaden policy and decision making by
providing additional forums for the public to
provide input and testify at public hearings.
•Work with City staff in researching issues,
collecting information, and providing
recommendations to the Council.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
•Community Engagement –
Commissions support the efforts of the City
Council to create an inclusive community by
seeking input and involvement of residents in
City matters and building a greater sense of
connection between the City and its
residents.
•City Council Support – Commissions serve
the City Council in an advisory capacity on
designated subject matters.
City Council Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
55
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City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
56
Department Overview
The City Manager’s Department comprises the City
Manager’s Office, the City Clerk’s Office, and the
Communications and Public Affairs Office. The City
Manager’s Department supports the Council’s legislative,
and policy interests, provides management and
leadership, and direction for the City organization. The City
Manager’s Department also supports Commissions,
interacts with community groups, fosters community
relationships, and provides public awareness of municipal
programs, services, and goals through effective
community outreach, utilizing various avenues, including
the City website, media relations, social media, and
publications. In addition, the City Manager’s Department
liaises with other local agencies that provide services to
the City of Saratoga through contract or other means, such
as public safety, parks and recreation, facility rentals, senior services, and emergency preparedness.
Administrative Services Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
City Manager's Department
City Clerk -389,103 -465,941 -420,958 -502,489 -518,087 -438,681
City Manager's Office -668,273 -831,769 -855,955 -837,230 -837,230 -859,208
Public Information Office -304,649 -313,581 -275,588 -373,484 -373,484 -422,803
City Manager's Department (1,362,025) (1,611,291) (1,552,501) (1,713,203) (1,728,801) (1,720,691)
City Manager City Manager's OfficeCouncil support, organizational management and leadership
City Clerk's Office
Meets legal requirements related to City records and conducting City business
Communications Office
Responsible for community outreach
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
57
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City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
58
City Manager’s Office
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
City Manager's Office
Expense 668,273 831,769 855,955 837,230 853,716 859,208
500 - Salaries & Benefits 579,943 627,636 686,544 707,380 720,116 717,219
610 - Operating Expenses 15,375 17,943 20,422 25,950 29,700 33,200
650 - Professional Services 114,511 60,105 20,000 20,000 20,000
790 - Internal Services 72,954 71,679 88,884 83,900 83,900 88,789
City Manager's Office (668,273) (831,769) (855,955) (837,230) (853,716) (859,208)
The City Manager’s Office provides leadership,
oversight, and direction for City functions,
supports the City Council and appointed
advisory bodies, nurtures community and
intergovernmental relations, and cultivates
public awareness of City services, programs,
and activities. The Office also oversees the
Clerk, Community Events staff, and
Communications and Public Affairs Office, and
coordinates with external agencies that provide
Recreation/Facilities, Public Safety, and
Emergency Preparedness services to the City.
Key services include:
• Provide comprehensive information, policy
analysis, and support to the City Council.
• Provide oversight, leadership, and direction
to City functions.
• Monitor state and federal legislation and
effectively communicate the City’s position
on legislative proposals affecting Saratoga.
• Facilitate strong community and
intergovernmental relations.
• Cultivate public awareness of municipal
services, programs, and activities.
• Present a balanced budget to the City
Council each fiscal year that accurately
reflects the most current revenue estimates
and economic conditions.
• Ensure that City services are performed in
accordance with City Council priorities and
within the capabilities of the City’s resources.
• Inform the City Council in a timely manner of
the City’s financial condition and future
needs on an ongoing basis.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Funding for emergency preparedness has
increased to update the required 2025
Emergency Operations Plan for the State.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Annual Budget – The City Manager’s Office
oversees the City’s annual budget for the
City Council and the community, ensuring
City finances, services, and projects are
properly presented and budgeted.
• Management and Council Retreats –
Organize and facilitate an annual retreat to
address organizational development and to
prepare for the annual City Council retreat.
Organize an annual City Council retreat to
encourage the development of policies and
address key issues, resulting in the
generation of the City’s annual work plan
and, subsequently, the development of
operating and capital budgets.
• Emergency Preparedness & Disaster
Response – Recognizing the importance of
preparedness, the City allocates funding to:
• Community Emergency Response
Team (CERT): Training residents to be
self-sufficient during disasters.
• Emergency Operations Center (EOC):
Enhancing infrastructure and resources
for coordinated emergency response.
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
59
• Public Awareness Campaigns:
Conducting drills and educational
programs on wildfire prevention,
earthquake preparedness, and
evacuation planning.
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
60
City Manager's Office
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Meet with each member of the Council biweekly prior to City
Council Meetings:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Prepare a weekly newsletter for City Council:94%94%94%94%94%
c.Provide Mayor and Council Members with presentation
materials and talking points for special events, media inquiries,
and presentations:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a.Hold meetings following City Council meetings with the City's
Management team to discuss upcoming agenda items and share
information:
95%95%95%95%95%
b.Make professional development and leadership training
opportunities available to Directors and City staff:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Professional Association Memberships:14 14 14 14 14
3.
a.West Valley Mayor's and Managers Meetings:10 10 10 10 10
b.Informational or Professional Association Meetings on Topics
of interest to Cities in California, the Bay Area, and Santa Clara
County:
30 30 30 30 30
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.32 29 37 30 23
Represent the City interests and stay apprised of local and regional
issues.
Number of City Council Meetings Per Year:
Ensure the City Council is fully informed about City matters and
provide support to City’s elected leadership.
Promote effectiveness of City operations through collaboration,
open communications, efficient coordination, creative thinking, and
professional development.
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
61
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City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
62
City Clerk’s Office
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
City Clerk
Revenue 0 21,830 21 15,675 77 0
440 - Charges for services 0 21,830 21 15,675 77 0
Expense 389,103 487,771 420,979 518,164 415,224 438,681
500 - Salaries & Benefits 248,260 216,828 243,905 252,710 256,369 272,383
610 - Operating Expenses 11,366 142,881 29,919 127,375 22,308 23,050
640 - Contract Services 29,943 28,786 30,470 35,350 33,818 46,500
790 - Internal Services 99,535 99,276 116,686 102,729 102,729 96,748
City Clerk (389,103) (465,941) (420,958) (502,489) (415,147) (438,681)
The City Clerk is responsible for meeting the
legal requirements related to maintaining City
records and conducting City business, as set
forth in the State of California Government Code
and City Municipal Code. The City Clerk
prepares City Council agendas and minutes,
ensures the timely indexing of resolutions,
ordinances, and agreements, and maintains an
accurate record of all Council proceedings. The
City Clerk also works with the Santa Clara
County Registrar of Voters to conduct local
elections in a fair and impartial manner; and
receives petitions and subpoenas on behalf of
the City. Key services include:
• Meet legal requirements as set forth in the
State of California Government Code and
City Municipal Code.
• Maintain City records.
• Prepare City Council agendas and minutes.
• Maintain an accurate record of Council
proceedings.
• Maintain custody of the City Seal.
• Administer Oaths and Affirmations.
• Prepare and publish legal notices.
• Maintain the Saratoga Municipal Code.
• Ensure Fair Political Practices Commission
filings are made on a timely basis.
• Ensure all elected officials, appointed
officials, and required staff meet mandatory
AB 1234 biennial training requirements.
• Administer recruitment process for City of
Saratoga Commissions.
• Respond to requests for public records
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
• The City holds a General Municipal Election
every two years for positions on the City
Council. The most recent election occurred
in November 2024 and the next election will
be held in November 2026. As a result, the
expenditure costs associated with the
election are not included in the 2025-26
budget.
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
63
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Records Management –With the adoption
of the City’s Records Retention Schedule,
the electronic records repository can be
updated to reflect the new schedule. The City
Clerk’s office will continue to manage the
City’s records, including converting paper
documents into electronic format, adding
electronic documents to the City’s document
management system, identifying records for
final disposition, and preparing documents to
be archived. Pursue the use of workflow for
document retention in the document
management system.
• Open Government – Continue
implementing open government efforts,
including the Brown Act, Political Reform Act,
Public Records Act, and other laws or
policies that promote transparent
governance. Broaden the number of public
records accessible online to the public
through the Laserfiche Weblink Repository.
• City Contracts – Continue use of contract
routing and electronic signature software.
• Agenda Workflow and Video Streaming –
Identify opportunities to improve the agenda
workflow program that allows for review and
approval of staff reports for City Council and
Planning Commission meetings. Provide
continued staff training on the agenda
workflow program. Continue video streaming
of City Council and Planning Commission
meetings and archiving videos in high
definition.
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
64
City Clerk's Office
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percentage of time in compliance with Brown Act requirements
for noticing City Council meetings:
100%100%100%100%100%
b.City Clerk or designee in attendance and recording actions at
Regular City Council meetings:
100%100%100%100%100%
c.Percentage of Regular City Council Meeting Minutes prepared
and submitted to City Manager in time to be scheduled for
approval on next Council agenda:
98%100%100%100%100%
2.
a.Documents scanned into electronic repository:41,550 2,500 16,500 6,845 2,000
b.Provide efficient and effective Records Management by
annually reviewing documents for retention and preparation for
destruction:
100%100%100%100%100%
3.
a.Percentage of Form 700 filed on time:90%85%90%90%90%
b.Percentage of Public Record Requests responded to within 10
days:
100%100%100%100%100%
4.
a.14 15 19 14 16
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.29 29 21 25 25
2.58 30 24 60 25
3.63 85 76 58 60
4.11 7 4 10 6
Number of Commission recruitments and appointments
processed:
Number of City Council minutes prepared per year:
Promote transparency of City operations with scheduled noticing,
recording, and prompt reporting of City Council meetings and
actions.
Maintain City documents and records to promote open government
efforts, and in accordance with State law and City ordinances.
Voluntarily comply with Public Records and Brown Act
requirements.
Number of boxes of City records processed for disposal:
Number of resolutions:
Number of ordinances:
Promote resident participation in leadership roles by overseeing
recruitment for positions on City Commissions and Committees.
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
65
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City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
66
Communications and Public Affairs Office
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Communications and Public Affairs
Office
Expense 304,649 313,581 275,588 373,484 384,794 422,803
500 - Salaries & Benefits 205,618 217,674 164,357 229,750 255,735 255,838
610 - Operating Expenses 2,499 4,134 8,243 9,000 5,925 12,075
640 - Contract Services 68,519 63,519 68,143 100,000 88,400 119,750
650 - Professional Services 0 384 300 0 0 0
790 - Internal Services 28,013 27,870 34,545 34,734 34,734 35,140
Communications and
Public Affairs Office
(304,649)
(313,581)
(275,588)
(373,484)
(384,794)
(422,803)
The Communications and Public Affairs Office
is responsible for community outreach,
ensuring that residents have access to timely,
useful, and important information. The
Communications and Public Affairs Office
oversees and maintains various lines of
communication with residents, including the
City’s website, Median Banner Program, social
media accounts, monthly e-newsletter, email
services, videos, surveys, event tabling, flyers,
and press releases. The Communications and
Public Affairs Office also serves as a liaison
between city departments and the community.
Key services include:
• Serve as the communications link between
the City and residents.
• Ensure that the community has easy
access to important information through
various forms of media, including print,
online, and video.
• Foster community pride and a positive
sense of identity with the City among
residents.
• Increase interest and participation in City
services, projects, and activities.
• Promote City Council and departmental
goals, initiatives, programs, and services.
• Assist in creating better internal and
external communication.
• Enhance the City’s relationship with the
news media.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Funding levels for printing services remain
strong in anticipation of outreach to
residents regarding Emergency
Preparedness.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Community Outreach – The
Communications and Public Affairs Office
will continue the City’s efforts to enhance
communication through the use of social
media (Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor,
Twitter), online services (email
newsletters), as well as through the City’s
website and participation in events. This
outreach will enhance the City’s
engagement with the community by
informing the public about important City-
related matters, including meetings,
events, and significant infrastructure
projects.
• Website ADA Accessibility – Website
ADA accessibility ensures digital content is
usable by people with disabilities, meeting
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
67
legal standards for inclusivity and
compliance.
• Crisis Communication Plan – The City
will update its Crisis Communications plan
and focus on additional outreach to reach
more residents in the event of an
emergency and obtain more email
subscribers to the Saratoga Source.
Communications and Public Affairs Office
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Produce weekly Saratoga Source; monthly Saratoga Spotlight
and Saratoga News, and quarterly Outlook:
49 49 97 97 76
b.Continually, provide information about City news and activities
on the City website, Facebook page, X, and Nextdoor site:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Send e-mail notifications for Council agendas, Commission
meeting agenda/minutes, weekly Sheriff's Office updates and
community events updates:
100%100%100%100%100%
d.Produce outreach materials, such as postcards like Budget in
Brief, Emergency Alert Information that provide an overview
on City operations and safety:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.2600 2722 2807 2969 3110
2.43 30 32 25 25
3.271 165 141 96 100
4 10 10 12 11 11
Inform residents through proactive communications efforts,
including media relations, social media, and other methods of
communication.
City of Saratoga Facebook Followers:
Number of Median Banner Program reservations:
Number of banners displayed through Median Banner Program:
Events hosted by City:
City Manager’s Department Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
68
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 69
Department Overview
The Administrative Services Department
oversees the City’s administrative, financial,
human resources, technology and insurance
programs. These programs are centralized, and
general functions providing administrative,
financial, and legally required comprehensive
support of citywide operations are included
within the General Fund. The Information
Technology program offers centralized and
user-specific technology support at varying
service levels as requested or required by City
departments. As an Internal Service Fund
program, it allows for better tracking of program
costs. The Information Technology Equipment
Replacement and Office Support funds provide
technology-related support and hardware for
departmental and citywide purposes.
Risk Management and Workers Compensation
programs act as a cost center for citywide
insurance costs for claims and coverage.
Administrative Services Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Administrative Services
Administrative Services -356,708 -265,593 -312,771 -285,304 -285,304 -274,946
Finance -984,434 -1,027,904 -1,006,936 -1,256,318 -1,253,549 -1,210,344
Human Resources -443,961 -508,420 -427,245 -477,853 -477,853 -482,763
Administrative Services
Total (1,785,103) (1,801,917) (1,746,952) (2,019,475) (2,016,706) (1,968,053)
*Information Technology, Office Support, Risk Management, and Workers’ Compensation Internal Service Funds
are self-supporting and excluded from the General Fund presentation.
Administrative Services Administrative ServicesBudget, investments, policy development, business systems improvements
FinanceFinancial reporting, accounts payable, payroll, accounts receivable
Human Resources
Labor & employee relations, benefits
administration, recruitment, and retention
Information Technology Internal Service
Cybersecurity, network, hardware, software,
audio visual management and support
Office Support Internal Service
Office equipment leases, copy supplies,
postage and centralized records
management
Risk Management Internal Service
Insurance for general, auto and property
risk management services
Workers Compensation Internal Service
Insurance related coverage or work-related
illnesses and/or injuries
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 70
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
71
Administrative Services
Administrative Services Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Administrative Services
Expense 356,708 265,593 312,771 285,304 297,189 274,946
500 - Salaries & Benefits 307,772 230,610 267,571 233,540 262,820 233,223
610 - Operating Expenses 3,472 3,698 2,766 6,110 3,310 6,400
640 - Contract Services 18,074 4,056 9,675 15,000 405 5,000
790 - Internal Services 27,391 27,229 32,759 30,654 30,654 30,323
Administrative Services
Total 356,708 265,593 312,771 285,304 297,189 274,946
The Administrative Services program focuses on
policy and procedural development, long-range
forecasting and financial communication,
strategic and financial planning, coordination
and development of the City’s annual budgets,
records management and documentation,
development and implementation of
administration management tools and
technology related process improvements, and
professional and technical assistance and
support to other departments relative to financial
and administrative matters.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Business System Improvements – The
City’s business systems continue to evolve
where services are provided with greater
reliance on paperless and electronic
systems. The program continues to manage
immediate and long-term business system
improvements through a combination of
administrative policy updates, optimization of
existing technologies, and training on new
systems. Improvements include
implementation of a budget and forecast
database and integrating applications for
streamline reporting.
• Cloud-Based Applications – Continue to
expand the use of cloud-based software for
all documents. This transition offers
increased functionality, system integration,
and will allow access to all documentation,
both historical and current, and ensure that
staff can fully work from remote locations, if
needed, especially in the event of a disaster.
• Financial Forecasting – The City routinely
reviews forecasted revenue and
expenditures to proactively identify potential
risks and opportunities. With future
expenditures forecast to grow faster than
revenue, careful planning for future projects
and services will help control costs.
• Disaster Recovery Planning – In the event
of a disaster and cost recovery process, the
City’s administrative and financial policies
would be subject to a highly critical and
restrictive review. These policies are the
foundation upon which cost recovery
decisions are made. Workload priorities
include the development and revision of high
priority policies to prepare for this rigorous
process should it occur. As cost recovery
planning and preparations are extensive, this
activity will continue to be a high priority
function for many years.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 72
Department Administration
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Annually provide Council and City Management with long-
range fiscal planning tools in preparation of annual budget
preparation and review processes:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Keep abreast of fiscal and administrative impacts to the City
and communicate pertinent information to City management:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Protect the City's assets by updating policies and practices that
regulate expenditures, review fiscal activities, and secure
facilities, vehicles & equipment, and information systems:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a.Percent of time actual expenditures do not exceed a fund's
approved budget appropriations:
90%100%100%97%100%
b.Governmental Finance Officer Association (GFOA) 'Certificate
of Achievement of Excellence in Budgeting' awarded to the City:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.N/A Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.N/A Yes Yes Yes Yes
3.Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
4.4 4 12 12 12
5.4 6 6 5 5Number of Public Budget Review Meetings Held
Deliver fiscal and administrative support to assist Council with
understanding and keeping current on the City's financial and
operational health in the effort to preserve essential services,
maintain City infrastructure, and achieve Council goals.
Prepare accurate budget workplans in compliance with standard
budgeting practices.
Present Mid-year Budget Review at annual Council Retreat:
Present Multi-Year forecast at annual Council Retreat:
Update financial policies for Council adoption:
Budget Performance Reporting Frequency
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
73
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 74
Finance
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Finance
Revenue 54,477 68,376 67,537 65,330 68,099 66,900
440 - Charges for
services 50,523 66,128 65,942 63,330 66,293 64,900
450 - Fines & penalties 3,954 2,248 1,595 2,000 1,806 2,000
Expense 1,038,911 1,096,280 1,074,473 1,321,648 1,049,402 1,277,244
500 - Salaries & Benefits 801,496 818,293 814,381 1,023,970 794,834 990,434
610 - Operating
Expenses 27,686 32,056 31,929 43,500 29,750 43,820
640 - Contract Services 16,866 54,161 10,555 31,900 10,540 23,700
650 - Professional
Services 43,000 43,200 36,750 52,000 44,000 47,200
790 - Internal Services 149,863 148,570 180,857 170,278 170,278 172,090
Finance (984,434) (1,027,904) (1,006,936) (1,256,318) (981,303) (1,210,344)
The Finance program functions to assure both
legal and fiscal accountability to the public
through responsible, sustainable, and
enforceable fiscal policies and practices. Key
services include:
• Monitor the City’s revenue and expenditures
to ensure compliance with the annual
operating and capital budget appropriations
in accordance with the best practices and
standards.
• Coordinate the annual audit of the City’s
financial statements and prepare the Annual
Comprehensive Financial Report.
• Maintain the City’s financial information
system for record-keeping and reporting of
all financial transactions.
• Provide Accounts Payable and Payroll
disbursement and reporting services;
Accounts Receivable invoicing, revenue
collection, and cash reconciliation; and
Business License Tax processing and
auditing services.
• Provide accounting, arbitrage reporting, and
claim reimbursement services for bond
issues.
• Provide oversight of procurement functions
including purchase order processing,
financial tracking of contracts, vendor
resolution issues, and proper accounting
allocations.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
• Budgeted salary and benefit expenditure
growth reflects cost of living, and step
increases.
• Financial Software Enhancements–
Finance completed its software upgrade to
the latest version of the City’s Enterprise
Resource Planning system, eFinancePlus at
the end of FY 2023-24. A focus in 2025-26
will include integration with CentralSquare’s
land management software TRAK-iT which
the City currently uses and has potential to
improve efficiencies if fully integrated with
eFinancePlus.
• Comprehensive Fee Schedule Update City
staff will implement the rates from the
comprehensive and extensive cost of
services study, and new fees will be effective
July 1, 2025.
• Financial Records Management –
Continue to scan items to Laserfiche as
required by the City’s Record Retention
Policy.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
75
Finance
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Annual Financial Statements receive an 'Unmodified Opinion'
from the City's independent auditor:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.City's Comprehensive Annual Finance Report meets the
Governmental Finance Officer Association (GFOA) 'Certificate
of Achievement of Excellence in Financial Reporting' program
standards and receives award:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a.Ratio of State and County regulatory and financial reports
completed and filed by deadlines:
20 of 20 20 of 20 20 of 20 20 of 20 20 of 20
b.Percent of time department revenue and expenditure reports are
completed within 30 days of month-end:
100%100%100%100%100%
3.
a.State Controller's annual financial reports completed and filed
by deadline:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Publish the monthly treasurer report within 45 days after
month-end:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Percentage of Accounts Payable invoices processed accurately
and on-time:
100%100%100%100%100%
d Percent of time bank statements are reconciled to general ledger
within 45 days of month-end:
100%100%100%100%100%
4.
a.Uphold (Moody's) highest bond credit rating of Aaa:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Amount contributed to pay down CalPERS pension costs: $ 1,013,932 $ 1,631,015 $ 605,938 $ 1,350,000 $ 1,533,502
c.Investment revenues earned $ 124,568 $ 855,210 $ 1,623,342 $ 1,908,971 $ 1,766,156
d.Unrestricted fund balance as a percentage of total general fund
expenditures:
30%24%35%43%40%
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1 843 586 538 523 516
2 1,894 2,130 2,015 1,905 1,920
3 6,404 6,842 6,734 7,220 6,800
4 39 38 45 43 42
5 3 1 1 3 1
6 15 35 21 18 20
7 1,899 1,840 1,835 1,793 1,870
Assure legal and fiscal accountability to the public, in compliance
with established accounting standards.
Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting within specified
deadlines.
Provide financial oversight and administer accounting functions for
City funds and accounts.
Proactively manage the City's finances to maintain excellent fiscal
status.
Number of payroll checks, paycheck vouchers, and stipends issued
annually:
Number of Cash Receipt batches processed annually:
Number of Business Licenses issued annually:
Number of invoices entered into Accounts Payable system:
Average number of Accounts Payable checks issued weekly:
Number of voided checks - due to processing errors:
Number of voided checks - due to lost/destroyed checks, printer
error, or incorrect invoice information:
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 76
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 77
Human Resources
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Human Resources
Expense 443,961 508,420 427,245 477,853 511,953 482,763
500 - Salaries & Benefits 373,282 390,692 341,334 352,030 396,746 348,518
610 - Operating Expenses 12,183 13,612 16,653 28,865 16,664 25,715
640 - Contract Services 9,358 11,032 11,241 19,200 16,930 25,150
650 - Professional Services 4,195 48,490 4,245 26,500 30,355 30,900
790 - Internal Services 44,943 44,594 53,773 51,258 51,258 52,480
Human Resources (443,961) (508,420) (427,245) (477,853) (511,953) (482,763)
The Human Resources Division works as a
strategic partner with all City of Saratoga
departments, fostering and supporting the
organizational goals and values. It provides
comprehensive, professional, technical, and
support services and programs to full-time and
part-time employees of the City. It also oversees
various City programs, including Employee
Recognition, Volunteering, Risk Management,
Worker’s Compensation, Safety and Wellness,
Custodian of Records Department of Justice,
and the Department of Motor Vehicles’
Employee Pull Notice (EPN) program. Other key
services include:
•Implementing strategic recruitment and
hiring processes that attract, retain, and
develop a skilled workforce delivering
exceptional customer service.
•Executing comprehensive retention
strategies including flexible scheduling,
competitive compensation, professional
development, recognition programs, and
community-building events.
•Promoting workplace safety through training
and best practices.
•Negotiating and bargaining Memorandums
of Understanding (MOUs) with represented
groups. ·
•Ensuring compliance with employment laws,
including establishing and monitoring
personnel policies. ·
•Administering employee benefits programs
including health insurance and retirement
plans. ·
•Implementing performance management
systems.
•Managing employee relations through
conflict resolution and promoting positive
workplace culture.
•Conducting regular classification and
compensation analysis to maintain
competitive and equitable pay structures
aligned with market standards.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 78
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
•Budgeted salary and benefit expenditure
growth reflects cost of living increases.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
•Recruitment and Selection – Efficiently
execute recruitment and selection
procedures, adhering to predetermined
target dates for diverse positions, including
regular benefited positions, at-will benefited
positions, and temporary at-will non
benefited positions.
•Staff Training – Efficiently organize and
coordinate mandatory training, along with
management and supervision workshops, in
partnership with LCW consortium.
Furthermore, provide a diverse array of
professional development training programs
to support the continued growth and
development of the City’s workforce.
•Labor Relations – Proficiently manage and
monitor the current employee
memorandums of understanding (MOUs),
ensuring full compliance with all applicable
requirements.
•Benefits Communication Enhancement –
Implement improved communication
strategies to increase employee
understanding and utilization of available
benefits.
•Employee Recruitment & Retention
Strategies – Attract and retain top talent by
enhancing workplace satisfaction through
targeted initiatives that build upon our
comprehensive framework of flexible
scheduling, competitive compensation,
professional development, recognition
programs, and community-building events.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 79
Human Resources
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percent of time the Human Resources Division provides reports
to outside agencies on or before the deadline:
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
2.
a.Manage contracts to ensure compliance with current laws,
memoranda of understanding, and City policies and procedures:
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
b.Regularly review contracts to ensure cost-effective insurances
and benefits that meet the needs of the organization are
provided:
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
3.
a.Percent of time personnel policies are available on the City's
website:
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
b.City personnel policies are updated regularly:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.7 9 10 7 6
2.122 245 211 559 250
3.68 66 69 71 72
4.220 177 250 265 250
5.$65,300 $64,400 $70,000 $71,000 $72,500
6.200 520 150 400 200
7.56 56 56 56 56
Support transparency in government activities through providing
timely reporting and/or responses to outside agencies.
Provide effective and efficient employee benefit contract
administration.
Provide fair and proper administrative and personnel decisions
that foster a proactive, responsible, and transparent government.
Number of training hours offered to employees:
Number of recruitments conducted for regular, benefited positions:
Number of employment applications received and processed:
Total number of employees (benefited, non-benefited, and
temporary, part-time and full-time):
Number of participants in Volunteer Saratoga program:
Value of volunteer hours:
Number of meet and confer process hours:
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 80
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 81
Information Technology Services
Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
IT Services
Revenue 960,866 952,848 1,046,873 850,000 866,000 820,000
460 - Use of money &
property
960,866 952,848 1,046,873 850,000 866,000 820,000
Expense 828,500 793,088 816,788 1,210,306 989,399 1,294,604
500 - Salaries & Benefits 412,081 431,942 436,867 473,110 454,407 507,800
610 - Operating Expenses 125,324 76,428 63,339 366,200 240,040 384,600
640 - Contract Services 212,497 206,568 230,322 321,220 245,176 366,380
770 - Fixed Assets 0 0 0 0 0 0
790 - Internal Services 78,598 78,150 86,259 49,776 49,776 35,824
IT Services 132,366 159,760 230,086 (360,306) (123,399) (474,604)
The Information Technology Services Program
supports the delivery of technology-based
services throughout the City’s operations. Core
services include the maintenance and support
for the City’s information systems, including all
aspects associated with computers, network
maintenance and support, infrastructure, and
system implementation and upgrade
support. Other core duties include maintaining
the City’s various communication systems,
including support for the streaming video
technology system, internet, landline, and
wireless communication systems, including
voicemail, email, and the archiving of
communication records. Key program services
include:
•Maintain and support the City’s information
software systems, including the financial
system, development permitting system,
Laserfiche document management system,
agenda management system, video
streaming, traffic light systems, digital plan
checking, EV charging stations, cloud-
hosted City systems, and other specialty
systems.
•Maintain, support, repair, and upgrade
servers.
•Maintain and support video streaming,
internet, voicemail, wireless and
telecommunication systems, and AM radio
station.
•Maintain, support, repair, upgrade, assist,
and educate staff on system usage, desktop
computers, laptops, mobile devices, printers,
and technology accessories.
•Maintain and support cloud-based
applications.
•Provide ongoing network maintenance,
security, and support.
•Ensure business continuity and
sustainability.
•Oversee technology upgrades as well as
lead new information technology initiatives.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The budget includes funding for network
equipment upgrades which will enhance network
data connectivity and improve network security
throughout the City’s data network infrastructure.
Additional funding will be allocated toward cloud-
based licensing and applications to provide
scalable solutions that will benefit city services.
The phone system will be replaced due to aging
existing hardware. The City’s fiber optic
infrastructure will also be upgraded to
accommodate overall network traffic stability.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 82
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
•Network Security Assessment –Network
security assessments are conducted on a
quarterly basis to ensure the security of the
City’s data systems, and to conform to the
Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security
Standards (DSS), National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST), and pass
compliance audits. The identification of
potential security vulnerabilities on City’s
data network are addressed on an ongoing
basis.
•Streamline Services – IT is enhancing
online services to include increased
capabilities for processing permit
applications, scheduling inspections, and
making payments.
•Staff Cyber Security Training – Continue
providing training videos and quizzes that
increase security awareness and allow staff
to be more knowledgeable in identifying
potential cybersecurity incidents.
•Technology & Equipment Management –
IT continues to keep abreast of emerging
technology information to ensure the City is
addressing concerns, issues, and
opportunities, and maintaining equipment at
appropriate levels to ensure infrastructure is
up-to-date, cost-effective, and secure from
cyber threats.
•Data Network Upgrade – IT staff to enhance
and improve the City’s network and data
infrastructure from increased network traffic,
integration of cloud-based solutions, security
standards, and provide additional bandwidth
and significant reliability for business
continuity. The City’s fiber optic cabling will
be replaced as part of the data network
upgrade.
•Phone system Upgrade – IT staff to
upgrade existing upcoming end-of-life phone
system. The new phone system will provide
enhanced functionality and reliability for the
City’s communications services.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 83
IT Services
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percent of time online services are available to the public
through the City's website and resource links:
99% 99% 99% 99% 99%
b.Percent of time network remains available during normal
business hours:
99% 99% 99% 99% 99%
c.Percent of time IT responds/resolves support requests within
one working day:
99% 99% 99% 99% 99%
d.Percent of time IT responds to technology system emergency
events:
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
2.
a.Number of system upgrades or modifications for which IT staff
provided project management support:
9 11 9 15 18
b.Number of new technology systems or equipment for which
oversight and support was provided by IT staff:
11 8 9 9 11
3.
a.Staff has current knowledge of cybersecurity compliance, alerts
and product vulnerabilities:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Number of times per year network assessment conducted:2 2 2 2 2
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.77 75 66 66 66
2.66 65 65 66 79
3.32 33 31 29 28
4.106 105 89 84 89
6.29 27 27 28 27
7.67 63 61 61 59
8.24 20 21 21 22Number of cell phones serviced and maintained:
Number of IT software applications monitored and maintained:
Number of network servers maintained:
Number of computer systems maintained:
Number of network copiers, printers, plotters, scanners, fax
machines, and postage machines maintained:
Number of landlines serviced and maintained:
Number of system users supported:
Support the delivery of technology services to citizens, residents,
businesses, other governmental agencies, and internal City
departments.
Provide technology solution oversight and project management
support to improve citywide functions.
Protect the City's technology assets from unauthorized use.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 84
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 85
IT Equipment Replacement
Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
IT Equipment Replacement
Revenue 150,000 149,053 150,120 50,000 50,000 10,000
460 - Use of money &
property 150,000 149,053 150,120 50,000 50,000 10,000
Expense 87,362 38,825 39,813 313,000 178,190 320,750
610 - Operating Expenses 87,362 38,825 39,813 313,000 178,190 320,750
770 - Fixed Assets 0 0 0 0 0 0
Grand Total 237,362 187,878 189,933 363,000 228,190 330,750
IT Equipment Replacement 62,638 110,228 110,307 (263,000) (128,190) (310,750)
The Information Technology Equipment
Replacement Fund Program provides for a
consistent level of funding, based on a City IT
replacement schedule, for the replacement of
desktop computers and monitors, servers,
laptops, printers, and various other technology
equipment on an ongoing basis. The schedule is
used to calculate the annual funding contribution
requirement to smooth operating expenses over
the years, as well as provide a more accurate
cost of operations on an ongoing basis. Key
services include:
•Accumulate and provide annual funding for
technology asset replacement.
•Continually assess IT equipment for proper
replacement timing.
•Identify and procure best solution
equipment.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Per Council’s direction, the IT Replacement
Fund incorporates all technology systems into
the replacement program along with all IT
infrastructure and fixed assets. This
comprehensive accounting provides a level of
detail to more accurately account for all IT
operational costs and accumulates replacement
funding during the lifetime of the asset while also
creating a master IT replacement plan.
The service chargeback is allocated to each
program based on calculations that track
citywide equipment costs and lifespan, and a
weighted average cost determines how much is
to be set aside each year to have funding
available for replacements at the time the
equipment’s lifespan is over.
Planned replacements for the 2025-26 budget
year total $320,750 and are listed in the following
IT Equipment Replacement Schedule.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 86
2025-26 Equipment Replacement Schedule
IT EQUIPMENT 2025-26 Scheduled
Laptop Computers 22,500
Desktop Computers 3,000
Network Servers 75,750
Computer Monitors 5,000
Specialty Printers /Equip 7,500
UPS Battery/Desktop 2,000
UPS Battery/Servers 5,000
Network Equipment 200,000
TOTAL IT EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT BUDGET 320,750
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 87
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 88
Office Support
Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/(Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Office Support Services
Revenue 44,150 46,559 71,230 50,000 58,000 26,000
440 - Charges for services 9,150 12,674 10,110 0 8,000 6,000
460 - Use of money &
property
35,000 33,885 61,120 50,000 50,000 20,000
Expense 32,873 39,790 66,262 64,600 49,026 74,482
610 - Operating Expenses 31,999 38,545 41,493 52,100 47,626 49,713
640 - Contract Services 874 1,245 2,269 2,500 1,400 2,269
650 - Professional
Services
0 22,500 10,000 0 22,500
Office Support Services 11,277 6,769 4,968 (14,600) 8,974 (48,482)
The Office Support Program accounts for
various multi-function equipment leases,
postage machine lease, copy supplies, city
letterhead, forms and cards, and postage and
related fees on a centralized basis. Usage
expenses are allocated back to the appropriate
department for services and supplies utilized on
a quarterly basis. As this program functions
primarily as a centralized funding mechanism,
personnel are not assigned to this program. Key
services include:
•Provide postage and photocopy equipment,
as well as other small office equipment,
supplies, and services for citywide use.
•Monitor service levels and performance of
copier and postage machines, maintaining
and replacing equipment as needed.
•Centralized record management system and
services.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
The City’s Multi-Functional Devices (MFD),
consisting of photocopying, scanning, and
printing functions, are typically leased rather
than purchased by the City based on the cost
effectiveness of service contracts versus the
cost of purchasing equipment. Although leasing
does include built-in financing costs, the heavy
usage MFDs sustain daily coupled with rapidly
advancing technology improvements and cost
and value reductions in these types of machines,
leasing provides the City with cost efficiency and
better ongoing quality over the long
term. Additionally, the potential for repeated
breakdowns, the cost-of-service contracts and
quality issues with older machines makes “lease
and replace” a better option than “purchase and
retain.”
With the expiration of the current copier lease
agreement in 2024, the City entered a new lease
effective August 2024. As expected, the new
copiers are more advanced: they provide higher
quality prints, have increased functionality and
reliability, and are faster – while lease and
service costs decreased.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 89
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 90
Risk Management
Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/(Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Liability/Risk Management
Revenue 763,902 869,792 1,229,005 1,811,500 1,850,000 2,100,000
420 - Intergovernmental 1,956 3,478 3,694 11,500 50,000 50,000
460 - Use of money &
property 761,946 866,315 1,225,311 1,800,000 1,800,000 2,050,000
Expense 809,485 867,988 1,151,002 1,532,733 1,459,183 1,637,758
500 - Salaries & Benefits 80,126 76,304 92,654 118,000 98,740 117,844
610 - Operating Expenses 721,215 783,545 1,048,367 1,379,340 1,350,050 1,509,550
640 - Contract Services 0 0 0 25,000 0 0
790 - Internal Services 8,144 8,140 9,981 10,393 10,393 10,364
Liability/Risk Management (45,583) 1,804 78,003 278,767 390,817 462,242
The City of Saratoga is insured through a Joint
Powers Authority (JPA). PLAN JPA, which
consists of Bay Area cities, began operations
July 1, 2018, as a pooled city entity to provide
insurance coverage to its 28 members agencies.
PLAN JPA contracts with a risk management
consultant to procure and manage general
liability, auto, and property insurance as directed
by the JPA Board of Directors which is
comprised of one representative of each
member agency. The risk management
consultant provides PLAN JPA members with
policy guidance to effectively identify, analyze,
and minimize risks, training to promote best
practices, and grant incentives for safety
programs. The City of Saratoga’s substantial
annual premium reflects a low self-coverage
retention level (deductible) of $25,000 per
occurrence. The City submits claim information
to the third-party administrator (TPA),
Sedgwick. Sedgwick’s staff follows up with other
parties and insurance firms, acting as the City’s
insurance agent. Key services include:
•Facilitate implementation of risk
management best practices to increase
public and staff’s safety and reduce the City’s
liabilities.
•Facilitate claim processing and
reimbursements for the City, in coordination
with the staff, the City Manager, and the City
Attorney.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Insurance premiums continue to climb as
coverage becomes more and more expensive,
particularly due to the deteriorating market for
public entity insurance. Premiums are also
dependent on, and reactive to, both the City’s
and the entire JPA’s claim loss activity and, with
the City’s recent claim loss history, the City is
assessed an increase of 17% from $933,302 to
$1,095,700, for Fiscal year 2025-26. The Plan
JPA has removed the capping of premiums
effective Fiscal Year 2025-26.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
•Risk Management – Convene annual
meetings with the Risk Management
Committee to facilitate a collaborative effort
in identifying and mitigating hazards through
the City. These meetings will also include
conducting a comprehensive claims review
to effectively minimize potential losses.
Additionally, conduct quarterly Safety
Meetings to proactively identify and address
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 91
safety concerns, thereby promoting a culture
of heightened safety awareness.
•PLAN JPA Grant Management – Utilize
PLAN JPA program grants to reimburse the
City for risk prevention projects pre-approved
by Sedgwick, coordinate risk management
training for staff, and attend risk
management training to implement best
practice.
Risk Management / Liability
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Contracts reviewed for compliance with Liability Insurance
requirements within 48 hours of receipt:
100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
b.Liability Claims processed within 48 hours of receipt:100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.4 4 5 21 2
2.0 1 4 15 2
3.Number of liability claims open:1 7 1 21 2
Number of liability claims received:
Number of liability claims resolved:
Provide timely, comprehensive Risk Management services to the
City to reduce liability and claims costs.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 92
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Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
93
Worker’s Compensation
Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/(Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Worker's Compensation
Revenue 259,072 255,769 335,085 410,000 406,000 308,000
420 - Intergovernmental 9,072 7,348 9,893 10,000 6,000 8,000
460 - Use of money &
property 250,000 248,421 325,192 400,000 400,000 300,000
Expense 254,610 263,729 317,826 358,303 357,923 400,427
500 - Salaries & Benefits 41,007 43,492 45,580 46,860 47,780 45,741
610 - Operating Expenses 204,097 212,836 263,418 301,775 301,475 345,263
640 - Contract Services 2,101 0 0 1,000 0 1,000
790 - Internal Services 7,406 7,401 8,827 8,668 8,668 8,423
Worker's Compensation 4,462 (7,960) 17,260 51,697 48,077 (92,427)
The City is a member of the Shared Risk Pool
(SHARP) Joint Powers Association, a self-
funded public agency insurance pool providing
workers compensation coverage for four public
entities that are too small to self-insure
independently. SHARP is liable for City of
Saratoga claims up to a per occurrence self-
insurance retention (SIR) of $250,000. SHARP
members jointly purchase excess insurance to
cover claims exceeding the SIR through the
Local Agency Workers’ Compensation Excess
(LAWCX) Joint Powers Authority.
The Human Resources program manages the
workers compensation processes according to
the California State Department of Industrial
Relations (DIR) regulations, serves as the liaison
between the City and SHARP’s third-party
administrator (TPA) Sedgwick Insurance
Services Group, monitoring performance, and
providing guidance and direction on behalf of the
City, to the TPA. Human Resources staff works
with the injured worker in developing a return-to-
work plan thereby holding down the workers’
compensation costs.
There are three major categories of workers
compensation claims: 1) Medical only claims are
claims that involve little or no time lost from work
(3 days or less) and no disability payments; 2)
Indemnity claims, which tend to be more serious
injuries, and thus provide payments for lost
wages for three or more days lost from work until
full recovery after an injury; and 3) Indemnity
claims which involve permanent disabilities.
Permanent disability benefits (either permanent
total disability or permanent partial disability) are
paid to workers who never recover their full
functions after an injury. The TPA investigates,
accepts, or denies claims. Claims are paid
based on the payment criteria for the claim. TPA
issued payments are funded through SHARP.
Key services include:
• Minimize the City’s exposure to losses
through employee work safety, wellness, and
ergonomic training programs.
• Manage the workers compensation
processes according to the California State
DIR regulations.
• Serve on the SHARP Board and provide
oversight of the TPA.
• Provide mandatory reporting of injury and
illness records (OSHA log 300) and
recordkeeping.
• Review injury and illness trends.
• Communicate workplace safety and health
practices and ensure workplace incidences
(injuries, exposures, or illnesses) are
reported, investigated, and that corrective
actions are taken promptly.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 94
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The annual revenue appropriation for this fund is
comprised of internal service chargeback fees
and SHARP grants. SHARP grants promote and
enhance worker health and safety. In 2025-26,
a $10,000 Wellness and Safety Grant will
continue to be used for wellness promotion and
training, and for safety training specifically
related to the Illness and Injury Prevention
Program (IIPP), such as the development of
safety standards and compliance audit
programs.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Wellness Program Initiative - Continue
Wellness Program Initiative (funded by
SHARP Grant) to successfully minimize the
exposure to incidents which may cause loss
to the City or injury to its employees and
promote employee wellness.
• Return to Work, Modified Duty Program –
To the extent possible and as needed, HR,
department directors, managers, and line
supervisors will actively identify appropriate
light-duty assignments for injured
employees, considering any anticipated
restrictions recommended by employee’s
physician.
• Injury and Illness Prevention Program
(IIPP) –Implement updated Injury and Illness
Prevention Program (IIPP) and coordinate
employee training sessions.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
95
Workers Comp
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget Budget
1.
a.Managing workers compensation claims process and reporting
requirements to ensure compliance with current workers
compensation laws and City policies and procedures:
100%100%100%100%100%
b.Regularly inspect injury claim files to insure they are up to date
and all applicable information is in the file:
100%100%100%100%100%
c.Keep procedures up to date and ensure employees have been
trained and are well-versed in the claims process:
100%100%100%100%100%
2.
a.Manage contract with third party administrator to ensure
compliance with current laws, memoranda of understanding, and
City policies and procedures:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
3.
a.Provide and promote a safety and wellness program to
encourage employees to maintain safe and healthy habits:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b. Annually provide safety training as required by the City's
Injury and Illness Prevention Program, including at least six
general sessions on rotating topics:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c. Annually provide one safety training as required by the City's
Workplace Violence Prevention Policy:
N/A N/A N/A Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget Budget
1.4 5 1 1 1
2.3 5 1 1 1
3.Number of open claims to date (since FY 1998/99):267 272 273 274 278
4.Number of closed claims to date (since FY 1998/99):262 272 273 274 278
5.Lost time in full work days:0 0 15 0 0
New claims (based on date of claim):
Closed claims (based on date closed):
Provide effective, efficient, and timely claims administration,
working closely with supervisors, injured workers and workers
compensation insurance carrier.
Establish and uphold effective internal controls with Workers Comp
third party administrators contracts.
Provide safety training and internal controls to promote a safe
working environment.
Administrative Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 96
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Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 97
Department Overview
The Community Development Department guides
the physical development of the City and preserves
the community’s quality of life by administrating
zoning regulations, providing building and inspection
services, code enforcement, arborist services, and
ongoing advanced planning activities that implement
the City’s General Plan. The Department also
supports the City’s business environment through
participation and funding of economic development
activities and supports community engagement
through various forms of communication, community
meetings, and public hearings with the City’s
Commissions and City Council.
The Facilities Maintenance Services Program and
the Furniture, Fixture and Equipment (FFE)
Replacement programs together, are another
division within the Community Development
Department. Both programs are separate Internal
Service Funds. The Facilities Maintenance Division
provides city-wide facility custodial and maintenance
services to ensure City facilities are safe, clean, and
usable for employees and general public use. The
FFE Replacement program supports Facilities
Maintenance activities through the funding
replacements of building assets as needed.
Community Development Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Community Development
Advanced Planning -39,221 -295,017 -230,362 -372,065 -372,065 -422,821
Building Inspection 872 610,097 743,440 139,572 714,380 224,483
Code Compliance -278,717 -362,033 -309,770 -359,517 -350,056 -289,747
Development Review -443,905 -513,558 -322,115 -638,628 -359,630 -607,511
Facility Maintenance 0 0 -199 0 0 0
Community Development
Total (760,972) (560,510) (119,007) (1,230,638) (367,371) (1,095,597)
*Facilities Maintenance and Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment Internal Service Funds are self-supporting and
excluded from the General Fund presentation.
Community Development Development Services
Guides the physical growth of the
City and preserves the community's
quality of life
Advanced Planning
Guides physical development of the
City and developes and updates the
City's General Plan
Code Compliance
Promotes community health, safety,
and welfare through zoning, licensing
& other regulations as reflected in the
City's Municipal Code
Building Inspection
A regulatory function that protects
the community's safety, health, and
property rights by ensuring minimum
building and zoning standards are
met
Facilities Maintenance
Ensures City facilities are clean, safe
and functional for the general public
and employee use
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
98
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Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 99
Development Services
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Development Review
Revenue 564,312 549,680 857,329 657,334 936,332 824,898
440 - Charges for services 562,601 549,662 857,026 657,034 936,322 824,898
460 - Use of money &
property
1,711 17 303 300 11 0
Expense 1,008,217 1,063,237 1,179,444 1,295,962 1,246,711 1,432,409
500 - Salaries & Benefits 741,204 801,507 880,931 943,930 905,329 1,066,600
610 - Operating Expenses 26,532 18,288 24,578 39,767 26,517 31,411
640 - Contract Services 10,894 13,880 31,645 26,200 28,800 35,000
650 - Professional Services 33,310 34,840 5,326 50,000 50,000 50,000
790 - Internal Services 196,276 194,722 236,964 236,065 236,065 249,398
Development Review Total (443,905) (513,558) (322,115) (638,628) (310,379) (607,511)
Applicants for building and other development
permits are required to comply with City codes,
plans, and policies, in order to obtain the
Planning Division’s approval of their projects. To
help facilitate development projects, planning
staff, the City Arborist, and land development
engineering staff (collectively Development
Services) assist applicants by reviewing,
analyzing, and processing their
applications. The process involves an
assessment of a project’s consistency and
compliance with the City’s Municipal Code,
General Plan, and regulations, followed by plan
checks and inspections. Depending on the
project, more extensive historical, arboricultural,
environmental, fire prevention, or geological
reviews and assessments may also be
required. Key services include:
Planning Services
• Provide on-demand services at the front
counter, via telephone, and through email
requests.
• Provide support to the Planning Commission,
Heritage Preservation Commission, and City
Council.
• Provide staff support to the Public Works
Department for City construction projects
and CIP environmental assessments.
• Assist the public with private land
development questions and information.
Review and process the following types of
applications:
• General Plan and Code Amendments
• Architecture and Site, Residential
Development, and Subdivisions
• Environmental, Variances, Rezoning, and
Planned Developments
• Certificates of Use and Occupancy
• Sign, Banner, and Conditional Use Permits
Arborist Services
• Assist planners with review of project site
planning with respect to trees.
• Provide specifications to residents and
contractors so that trees are protected during
construction.
• Inspect projects prior to, during, and
following construction to ensure adequate
protection of trees.
• Provide information to the public at the front
counter and through phone and email for
general information on tree pruning,
selection, care, protection, and tree removal
criteria.
• Tree removal and “After the Fact” tree
removal permits
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
100
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Contract Planning Services funding will continue
to be utilized to coordinate complex projects.
Specialty software will be implemented for online
project application and permit processing.
Except for the SB330 applications received
during the 2024/2025 fiscal year, development
activity is expected to remain constant from
previous years.
Nearly all the development processes in
Community Development are now completed
online. Increased overall cost for specialty
software and credit card processing fees have
been incorporated into the departmental
operating budget.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• SB 330 projects – Work continues on the
review and processing (including
environmental analysis) of SB330 “Builder’s
Remedy” projects. Unless otherwise
exempted by State law, these projects will
require review by the Planning Commission
and approval from the City Council.
Updated Standard Conditions of Approval
In collaboration with the City Attorney’s
Office, City staff are preparing standard
conditions of approval to help ensure that
planning entitlements include minimum
requirements. The standard conditions will
be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to
determine applicability to a particular project.
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 101
Development Services
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Review planning applications and provide written comments deeming
them complete or incomplete, within 30 days:
100%100%100%100%100%
b.Review all zone clearances from the Building Division within 2 weeks:100%100%100%100%100%
c.Work with City Attorney's office to update the zoning ordinance and land
use policies in accordance with Council priorities, annually
N/A N/A N/A Yes Yes
d.Work with City Attorney's office to update the zoning ordinance and land
use policies in accordance with new state laws, within 3-months of their
effective date
N/A N/A N/A 100%75%
2.
a.1%1%1%1%1%
b.100%100%100%100%100%
c.N/A N/A N/A N/A 60-90 days
3.
a.Percent of notices sent within 10 days of Planning Commission: meetings:100%100%100%100%100%
b.Utilize three or more communication methods for all Community
Development public outreach efforts (social media, postcards, etc.)
N/A N/A N/A N/A 3
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.582 597 634*779 700
2.465 549 470 366 350
3.103 119 100 126 125
4.12 11 12 10 10
5.5 2 3 1 2
6.16 10 2 11 4
7.8 4 9 16 10
8.Development applications requiring geological review:43 39 44 43 44
9.Number of building permits finaled by planning (zone clearances) reviewed:N/A N/A N/A 94 100
10.Number of Business License Zone Checks processed annually:N/A N/A N/A 72 75
Number of complex projects (rezonings, planned developments, environmental
review):
Number of planning projects processed:
Number of tree removal permits processed:
Number of Arborist plan reviews:
Number of Planning Commission Hearings:
Number of Planning Commission Study Sessions:
Number of public input meetings for citywide programs:
Facilitate the development of land and structure consistent with City codes,
plans, and policies.
Analyze and process development applications efficiently and effectively.
Percentage of applications continued at the request of the Planning
Commission:
Percentage of appealed applications upheld by the City Council:
Enhance community awareness of land use projects.
Average time between "application deemed completed" or completion of
CEQA review, and project decision (includes Planning Commission/City
Council):
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
102
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Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 103
Advanced Planning
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Advanced Planning
Revenue 151,452 150,502 0 0 0 0
440 - Charges for services 151,452 150,502 0 0 0 0
Expense 190,673 445,519 230,362 372,065 372,234 422,821
500 - Salaries & Benefits 164,621 169,146 183,829 187,950 188,219 271,858
610 - Operating Expenses 490 1,015 2,185 2,000 1,900 2,200
640 - Contract Services 0 0 0 0 0 0
650 - Professional Services 0 12,658 150,000 150,000 115,500
790 - Internal Services 25,562 25,358 31,690 32,115 32,115 33,263
900 - Transfer to Capital Program 250,000 0 0 0 0
Advanced Planning Total (39,221) (295,017) (230,362) (372,065) (372,234) (422,821)
Advanced Planning Services focus on guiding
the physical development of the City by
developing and updating the City’s standards,
regulations, Specific Plans, and General
Plan. The City’s General Plan is an adopted
statement of policy for the physical development
of the community. As such, it includes the
following elements: Land Use, Housing,
Circulation, Safety, Noise, Open Space, and
Conservation. The City also establishes specific
plans to provide additional guidance for future
land use development in the plan area, with
aspects such as detailed land use, design
guidelines, and implementation strategies. Key
services include:
• Coordinate preparation of General Plan
Element Updates, as needed.
• Implement the 2023-2031 Housing Element
Update.
• Apply General Plan and Specific Plan
policies to development projects and
processes.
• Develop administrative policies, plans, and
ordinances in coordination with Advanced
Planning updates.
• Track development activity and
implementation of the City’s Housing
Element and General Plan for the
Department of Housing and Community
Development annual progress report.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Changes
Staff workplan activities in 2025-26 will focus on
implementing the 2040 General Plan and 2023-
2031 Housing Element, including the following:
• Saratoga Village Objective Design
Standards
• Code Amendments to Implement State Law
• Amendment to Article 15-50 Tree
Regulations
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
104
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Annual Code Updates – Each year, staff
identifies sections of the City Code that need
updating, including removing
inconsistencies, revising code which is
difficult to interpret (e.g., ambiguous or
subjective language), or amending code to
reflect changes in state law (e.g. accessory
dwelling units)
• Saratoga Village Objective Design
Standards – The 2023-2031 Housing
Element includes a program to create
objective design standards for the Saratoga
Village. Public engagement efforts will
include community input received through
stakeholder interviews, a community
questionnaire, and a community workshop.
The City will also hold an in-person Joint
Study Session with the Planning
Commission and City Council that is open to
the public. The input gathered at the joint
Study Session will be reflected in a Public
Review Draft for review and feedback at two
study sessions, which may consist of a
Planning Commission Study Session, a City
Council Study Session, and/or Joint Study
Session(s) with the Planning Commission
and City Council. The feedback will be
incorporated into a final draft of the Village
Design Standards for review at Public
Hearings before the Planning Commission
and City Council.
• Amend Article 15-50 Tree Regulations
• Given concerns regarding wildfires, the
Planning Commission will review the City’s
tree regulations with regard to tree species in
the City’s hillsides, wildland urban interface
areas, and fire hazard severity zones. The
Planning Commission will also review
defensible space requirements and tree
removal allowances in accordance with
home insurance requirements
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 105
Advanced Planning
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Support the construction of at least 50 ADUs annually,
including 15 very low and 15 low income ADUs.
N/A N/A N/A N/A Yes
b.Meet with 1-2 developers and non-profits annually to promote
affordable housing opportunities.
N/A N/A N/A N/A Yes
2.
a.Five of seven General Plan were updated within last eight years:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Annual review of Housing Element submitted to State by
deadline:
Yes Yes No Yes Yes
3.
a.Submit Annual Progress Report to State by April 1st deadline N/A N/A N/A N/A Yes
b.Review state law annually and update the Municipal Code
within 6 months of review, as needed.
N/A N/A N/A N/A Yes
a.Housing Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Land Use Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Circulation and Transportation Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
d.Conservation Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
e.Open Space Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
f.Noise Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
g.Safety Element:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.3 0 2 7 2
2.0 0 10 0 0
3.0 0 6 0 1
4.N/A N/A N/A N/A 2
Achieve quantitative objectives of the 2023-2031 Housing
Element
Number of General Plan amendments requested:
General Plan complies with State of California requirements.
General Plan elements are updated within the last eight years in
order to administer and enforce development policies, and thereby
maintain a high quality of life for the community.
Number of ordinances completed (multiple section updates):
General Plan Elements updated:
Number of new or updated policies requiring Commission or
Council approval
Complete annual objectives of the 2023-2031 Housing Element
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
106
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Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 107
Code Compliance
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Code Compliance
Revenue 9,257 9,097 11,517 9,100 18,561 12,600
440 - Charges for services 10,325 9,090 11,517 9,100 18,561 12,600
450 - Fines & penalties -1,068 7 0 0 0 0
Expense 287,974 371,130 321,287 368,617 342,333 302,347
500 - Salaries & Benefits 243,205 325,853 238,040 265,530 239,636 214,328
610 - Operating Expenses 1,624 2,345 1,958 3,400 2,500 3,300
650 - Professional Services 0 0 26,201 37,000 37,510 17,000
790 - Internal Services 43,145 42,932 55,088 62,687 62,687 67,719
Code Compliance Total (278,717) (362,033) (309,770) (359,517) (323,772) (289,747)
The City’s Code Compliance Program supports
community health, safety, and welfare through
zoning, planning, business licensing, and other
regulations as reflected in the City’s Municipal
Code. Compliance is achieved through
education, voluntary compliance, or direct
enforcement of laws and municipal codes. The
Code Compliance Officer investigates reported
violations, conducts field inspections, gathers
supporting evidence, maintains case files and,
as necessary, prepares reports regarding
violations.
For code compliance cases which are not
resolved through staff efforts or mediation, and a
fine or enforcement action is issued, the City may
need to utilize the services of a Hearing Officer,
a contract attorney compensated for hours of
service who will conduct a hearing if an appeal is
requested for a code enforcement action issued
by the City. The attorney is an impartial judge
and does not have any other connection or
working relationship with the City. Other key
services in this division include:
• Issue Special Event and Noise Exception
Permits.
• Administer masseuse and solicitor permit
programs.
• Enforce the City Municipal Code and
continue with outreach and education efforts
to increase the awareness of residents,
businesses, and property owners about the
City’s Municipal Code regulations.
• Receive and maintain status on all violation
complaints. Respond to, investigate, and
abate legitimate complaints.
• Resolve complex code and zoning violations
and administer citation appeals.
• Administer the Weed and Brush Abatement
Program.
• Assist the Building Division with un-permitted
construction in progress and other Building
Code violations.
• Assist all other City Departments, the County
Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Office.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
• No significant budget changes.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Abatement Priorities –Efforts to prioritize
responses to code compliance cases will be
based on the Council’s adopted priorities and
procedures.
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
108
• Program Priorities – Development of new
code compliance procedures to streamline
work processes and improve workflow
between Building, Planning and Code
Compliance divisions.
• Weed and Brush Abatement Program –
The Code Compliance Officer manages
these Programs, issues notices, inspects
properties for compliance, and follows up
with enforcement to abate overgrown
vegetation, and assess costs and penalties
against non-compliant property owners.
Code Compliance
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a. Percentage of complaints receiving a response within 48 hours
of receipt:
90%90%90%90%90%
b. Average number of days to initiate investigation.N/A N/A N/A N/A 2
b. Average open to close cycle time for formal complaints:4 weeks 4 weeks 4 weeks 4 weeks 4 weeks
c.Percent of violations resolved through voluntary compliance:90%90%85%85%90
2.
a.Percentage of residents on the weed abatement list who
voluntarily comply:
N/A N/A N/A N/A 100
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.218 141 151 286 200
2.0 0 0 0 0
3.1 0 1 3 1
4.186 109 87 254 200
5.0 1 1 3 1
6.47 35 43 34 40
7.N/A N/A N/A N/A 5
Cases requiring City Attorney review:
Ensure code compliance staff is responsive and accountable to the
community.
Ensure compliance with City regulations for permitted activities.
Annual number of new code enforcement cases:
Total number of Administrative Citations:
Annual number of Code Enforcement cases investigated or
mitigated/closed:
Annual number of Solicitor Permits issued:
Annual number of Noise Exemption permits issued:
Annual number of Special Permits issued:
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 109
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Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
110
Building and Inspection
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Building Inspection
Revenue 1,402,759 2,047,152 2,291,332 2,579,543 3,154,351 2,777,400
420 - Intergovernmental 0 0 0 0 0 0
440 - Charges for services 1,402,759 2,047,152 2,291,332 2,579,543 3,154,351 2,777,400
Expense 1,401,887 1,437,055 1,547,893 2,439,971 2,328,905 2,552,917
500 - Salaries & Benefits 1,000,026 978,069 1,039,287 1,141,870 1,059,104 1,205,558
610 - Operating Expenses 65,746 86,483 81,898 100,800 96,000 22,800
640 - Contract Services 88,649 126,733 91,852 783,500 760,000 865,000
790 - Internal Services 247,467 245,770 334,855 413,801 413,801 459,559
Building Inspection Total 872 610,097 743,440 139,572 825,446 224,483
The Building & Inspection Services Division is a
regulatory function that protects the community’s
safety, health, and property rights by ensuring
minimum building and zoning standards are
met. The City’s development ordinances and
standards regulate the design, construction,
quality of materials, use and occupancy of
buildings, as well as the location and
maintenance of all buildings within the City of
Saratoga. Staff assist applicants with
information concerning building regulations,
disability access regulations, and other state and
local ordinances, and provide plan check
services in compliance with California Building
Codes.
Staff also maintain permit tracking and plan
check systems, inspect commercial and
residential buildings under construction, and
reviews grading plans and perform grading
inspections for construction projects with
significant earthwork activity. The ability to
expedite plans, check response time and issue
over-the-counter permits improve customer
service; therefore, the Division has implemented
improvements that focus on utilizing
technologies, standardizing processes, training
staff, and attaining certifications. Key services
include:
Counter Services
• Provide construction and zoning code
information to developers, contractors,
architects, engineers, homeowners, and the
general public.
• Maintain permit tracking and building permit
system information.
• Provide business license information and
process new licenses and existing license
renewals.
Plan Check Services
• Perform residential and commercial building,
structural, and site plan reviews under
California Building Code guidelines, State
regulations, and City ordinances.
• Provide building code information to
applicants.
Inspection Services
• Perform on-site inspections of buildings and
structures under construction.
• Investigate housing code violations.
• Coordinate building permit applications with
other departments and agencies.
Online Services
• Provide step-by-step processes for obtaining
the majority of City permits.
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 111
• Allow residents and contractors the ability to
apply for and pay for permits online.
• Provide a means for uploading applications,
plans, and supporting documents.
• Provide construction and zoning code
information to developers, contractors,
architects, engineers, homeowners, and the
general public.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The Building Division is expecting revenue
activity to remain constant with the previous
year.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Electronic Plan and Permit Processing –
Refine and promote online services using the
eTRAKiT portal which will provide web-
based planning and building division
submittals.
Express Permits – implement new online
program to automatically review and issue
simple permits, such as re-roofs, water heaters,
upgraded electrical panels and residential EV
chargers.
Building & Inspection
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percentage of inspection requests scheduled within 2 business
days of request:
99%99%99%99%99%
b.Percentage of initial plan checks completed within 15 days of
receipt:
99%99%99%99%99%
c.Percentage of permits isued that are withdrawn:N/A N/A N/A 0.50%0.50%
d.Ratio of Minor Permits to Major Permits issued N/A N/A N/A 4:1 4:1
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1 2,320 1,937 1,900 1,900 2,000
2.450 450 450 450 450
3.7,156 8,029 8,271 8,000 8,000
4.498 988 700 700 800
5.$113 $191 $185 $185 $190
6.N/A N/A N/A N/A 50
7.N/A N/A N/A N/A 500
9.N/A N/A N/A N/A 65Number of ADU permits issued annually:
Number of online permits submitted:
Number of building plan checks completed:
Number of business license facility inspections:
Number of inspections completed:
Dollar value of construction permitted (in $Millions):
Maintain staff's responsiveness and accountability to the
community.
Number of Building Division permits issued:
Number of Over-the-Counter Plan Checks for Remodels:
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
112
Facility Maintenance
Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Facility Maintenance
Revenue 1,151,959 1,117,999 1,397,512 1,200,000 1,200,000 1,440,000
460 - Use of money & property 1,151,959 1,117,999 1,397,512 1,200,000 1,200,000 1,440,000
Expense 932,450 1,139,349 1,257,571 1,563,847 1,617,317 1,519,807
500 - Salaries & Benefits 415,182 460,269 596,753 577,770 618,787 594,685
610 - Operating Expenses 164,986 208,573 269,996 253,425 276,690 284,275
640 - Contract Services 139,960 170,517 159,935 233,500 222,688 218,000
650 - Professional Services 0 370 0 0 0 0
770 - Fixed Assets 60,463 148,186 47,999 316,170 316,170 248,647
790 - Internal Services 151,858 151,435 182,888 182,982 182,982 174,200
Facility Maintenance Total 219,509 (21,350) 139,941 (363,847) (417,317) (79,807)
The Facility Maintenance Division is a citywide
support function for custodial, maintenance,
repair services, and building improvements for
all facilities at the Civic Center, Prospect Center,
and Museum Park, and supports the needs of
the tenants of City leased buildings as defined in
lease agreements (e.g., Senior Center) and
LGS.
The Facility Maintenance staff ensures the City’s
facilities are clean, safe, and in a usable
condition at all times for employees and the
general public. Regular preventative
maintenance services are on a schedule, which
include items such as painting, roof
maintenance, pest control, emergency generator
testing and upkeep, HVAC, and alarm
servicing. Other maintenance repair services
such as electrical and plumbing repairs are
contractually provided on an as-needed
basis. The Facility Maintenance program also
funds citywide facility expenses such as water,
sewer, electricity and natural gas utilities,
maintenance, and janitorial supplies and
manages all city owned building security and
access (keys and access cards).
Facility Maintenance is accounted for as an
Internal Service Fund program, with cost
allocations based on service/support
levels. Internal service charges represent costs
associated for custodial and building
maintenance. Internal Service Funds recognize
costs on an ongoing basis through stabilized
annual charges based on long-term operational
and asset replacement costs. This averaging of
costs helps to maintain fiscal sustainability.
Due to building size and public use factors, the
majority of the Facility Program’s service/support
costs and functions focus on non-staff buildings
such as the Civic Theater, Community and
Senior Centers, Saratoga Prospect Center, and
Museum Park buildings. The Facility
Maintenance’s program cost to support janitorial,
repair, and maintenance functions is allocated to
operational programs based primarily on square
footage percentages the program uses, with the
public common area usage charged to the Non-
Departmental Section’s General Administration
Program. Key services include:
• Provide facilities that are clean, safe, and
usable for the public and City employees.
• Follow environmentally friendly purchasing
policies, sustainability, and green building
practices.
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 113
• Maintain facilities on a regular schedule to
provide efficient and cost-effective
maintenance.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
LED lights will continue to be installed
throughout the City buildings when lighting
replacement is needed. This project will be
ongoing until all lights are updated with LED
technology.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Facility and Infrastructure Project
Management – Facility staff will oversee
planned facility improvement projects to
ensure City facilities are clean, safe, and
maintained according to best practices.
• Environmental Sustainability - Staff will
continue ongoing environmentally friendly
and energy-saving projects such as installing
energy-saving HVAC units in City buildings
and maintaining EV charging stations at the
City Civic Center.
Facility Maintenance
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Annual Fire Alarm and Emergency Lights System Testing N/A N/A N/A 100%100%
b.Semi-Annual Emergency Generator Testing N/A N/A N/A 100%100%
c.Semi-Annual Kitchen Suppression Systems Testing N/A N/A N/A 100%100%
d.Monthly Fire Extinguisher Testing N/A N/A N/A 100%100%
2.
a.Quarterly preventative maintenance of all City HVAC systems:100%100%100%100%100%
b.Six-days per week cleaning of all City facilities including emptying trash,
vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning windows, etc.:
100%100%100%100%100%
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500 3,500
2.11 11 11 11 11
3.4 4 4 2 2
4.7 20 36 33 36
5. Number of Event setups N/A N/A N/A 8 10
6.Percentage of work orders completed within three working days N/A N/A N/A 90%90%
7.Number of FFE (funiture, fixtures and equipment) projects N/A N/A N/A N/A 7
Refinish wood floors annually:
Setup and takedown of Council Chamber dias:
Maintain AED units on a monthly basis:
Provide safe, functional, and attractive City buildings for the enjoyment of the
public and to house the provision of City services.
Provide safe and functional, City buildings using environmentally sensitive and
cost-effective practices.
Number of work orders completed:
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
114
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment
Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Furniture, Fixtures &
Equipment
Revenue 200,000 198,737 200,000 100,000 100,000 40,000
460 - Use of money &
property 200,000 198,737 200,000 100,000 100,000 40,000
Expense 60,463 148,186 47,999 316,170 316,170 248,647
770 - Fixed Assets 60,463 148,186 47,999 316,170 316,170 248,647
Furniture, Fixtures &
Equipment Total 139,537 50,551 152,001 (216,170) (216,170) (208,647)
The Facility FFE Replacement Internal Service
Fund (ISF) Program was added in recognition
that the replacement of facility components is
ongoing and should be treated similarly to how
the City plans for technology equipment and
vehicle replacements. The use of a steady
annual charge helps to improve the irregular cost
and timing of large facility equipment purchases
over the years, as well as provide a more
accurate cost of operations on an ongoing
basis.
The two direct General Fund allocations are in
recognition of the program’s functions – Facility
Rental charges are related to rent producing
assets, and non-departmental charges are for
general city-wide use that is not specific to City
services. The ISF Facility Maintenance program
receives an allocation that is subsequently
reallocated out to the General Fund operational
programs through the Building Maintenance
allocation.
Initially, furniture, fixtures, and equipment are
purchased through a requesting department’s
budget, or as part of a capital project for general
citywide assets. If facility assets are replaced on
an ongoing basis, the new equipment will be
added to the department’s replacement
schedule list. The addition of the FFE
replacement program stabilizes funding
requirements by accumulating funds annually
over an asset’s lifespan to both ensure funding
is available when needed, and to appropriately
recognize overhead costs. This practice allows
the City to replace facility FFEs on a scheduled
basis, with built-in flexibility for unexpected
timeframes or costs. Key services include:
• Identify and track facility furniture, fixtures,
and equipment.
• Accumulate and provide annual funding for
asset replacements.
• Assess the condition of furniture, fixtures,
and equipment for proper replacement
timing.
• Identify and procure best solution
equipment.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget
Changes
The annual funding chargebacks are set at with
the expectation that this level of funding will
provide adequate resources to purchase and
replace identified facility assets for many
years. The long-term replacement plan is
reassessed each year to include reassessed
replacement cost values, delays or expedited
replacements, newly identified assets, or the
addition of new assets. Planned replacements
for the 2025-26 budget year total $248,647 and
are listed in the following FFE Equipment
Replacement Schedule.
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 115
LOCATION/CATEGORY ASSET LIFESPAN EST. COST
City Hall
Citywide Tables and Chairs 10 10,000
City Hall Portable Sound Podium 10 5,000
City Hall - CDD/PW Windows 40 52,193
Civic Theater/Council Chambers
Theater/Council Chambers Auditorium - HD Projector (Seating Area)60 22,001
Community Center
Community Center-Main Building MPR Sound System 10 20,000
Prospect Center
Friendship Hall MPR Sound System 10 20,000
Grace Building Lighting 17 11,570
Corporation Yard
Corporation Yard HVAC Replacement #2 15 30,477
Warner Hutton House
Warner Hutton House Furniture 20 14,449
Senior Center
Senior Center Portable Sound Podium 10 5,000
Portables
Senior Portable Flooring 25 22,401
Senior Portable HVAC Unit # 1 23 17,778
Senior Portable HVAC Unit #2 23 17,778
TOTAL FFE REPLACEMENT FUNDING: 248,647$
FURNITURE, FIXTURES & EQUIPMENT
2025-26 REPLACEMENT SCHEDULE
Community Development Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
116
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Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
117
Department Overview
The Public Works Department oversees engineering
and capital project functions; reviews the public’s
development plans for impacts to roadways and
public right of ways; maintains the City’s parks, trails,
medians, rights-of-way, grounds, bridges, and
landscape districts; repairs and maintains the
roadway systems, including streets, traffic and
pedestrian signals, lighting, and storm drains;
provides vehicle maintenance oversight and minor
maintenance; and ensures the City’s environmental
responsibilities are fulfilled, including externally-
driven responsibilities under the Clean Water and
Solid Waste programs. The Public Works
Department also supports the Traffic Safety
Commission, the Pedestrian, Equestrian, Bicycle
and Trails Advisory Committee, and facilitates
community volunteer efforts such as the Village
Gardeners and various Scout projects.
Public Works consists of five main operational
programs that provide information and outreach to
the City’s residents, businesses, and the public
regarding the department’s activities and
infrastructure projects that may affect them and
provides resources that are available to the
community. Additionally, the department oversees
two internal support programs: Equipment
Maintenance and Equipment Replacement; and 32
separately funded Landscape and Lighting
Assessment Zones.
Public Works General Engineering
Provides oversight for the City's
engineering activities not related to
private development
Development Engineering
Provides services for private
development projects to ensure
accordance with City Standards
Environmental Services
Oversees City's Clean Water and
Solid Waste programs and promotes
environmental services
Streets & Stormdrains
Provides ongoing maintenance to
City's public infrastructure including
roadways
Parks & Landscape Maintenance
Provides well maintained landscape,
turf to City Parks, and open spaces
Equipment Maintenance
Ensures all vehicles and equipment
are safe, function well, and are
maintained.
Landscape & Lighting Districts
32 districts
Capital Improvement Progam
City prioritized workplan for capital
projects
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
118
Public Works Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Public Works
Engineering
Development
-76,818 -159,065 -139,582 -176,046 -186,046 -128,179
Environmental
Services
-695,312 -752,300 -1,006,263 -870,764 -721,066 -681,645
General Engineering -339,510 -519,036 18,431 -982,264 -426,910 -936,191
Parks & Landscape
Services
-2,761,665 -2,710,125 -3,261,801 -3,706,722 -3,705,352 -4,198,078
Streets & Storm drains -1,727,532 -1,852,374 -2,010,361 -2,166,067 -2,162,150 -2,354,030
Public Works Total (5,600,837) (5,992,901) (6,399,577) (7,901,863) (7,201,524) (8,298,124)
* Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance and Vehicle & Equipment Replacement Internal Service Funds and Lighting
and Landscape Districts are self-supporting and excluded from the General Fund presentation.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
119
General Engineering
General Engineering Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
General Engineering
Revenue 807,996 734,846 1,538,599 600,250 1,155,604 750,250
440 - Charges for services 807,996 734,846 1,538,599 600,250 1,150,879 750,250
460 - Use of money & property 0 0 4,725 0
Expense 1,147,506 1,253,882 1,520,169 1,582,514 1,572,709 1,686,441
500 - Salaries & Benefits 888,346 966,680 1,184,603 1,178,770 1,189,470 1,265,762
610 - Operating Expenses 36,909 35,063 39,701 42,410 39,655 45,100
640 - Contract Services 8,776 11,596 32,241 35,950 21,700 37,000
650 - Professional Services 95,436 124,210 114,607 169,000 165,500 169,000
790 - Internal Services 118,040 116,334 149,016 156,384 156,384 169,579
General Engineering Total (339,510) (519,036) 18,431 (982,264) (417,105) (936,191)
The General Engineering Program provides
oversight for the City’s engineering activities not
related to private development. This includes
the design, management, and administration of
the Capital Improvement Plan to improve the
City’s public infrastructure (e.g. streets, storm
drains, sidewalks, signalized intersections,
parks, and medians) with an emphasis on
delivering capital projects within planned
schedules and budgets and department staff
applying for annual grant opportunities. General
Engineering operations also include traffic
management, the development of Geographic
Information System (GIS) data to manage the
City’s infrastructure, and processing annexation
requests, right-of-way, and property boundary
issues. Key services include:
• Provide assistance and information to the
public regarding engineering services.
• Provide administrative and engineering
support services for capital improvement
projects including preparing bids and
contracts.
• Perform traffic engineering analyses and
manage traffic concerns.
• Maintain current statistics on traffic
accidents, traffic volumes, speeds, and street
mileage, and prepare annual reports to state
and local agencies, as required.
• Review requests and issue encroachment
permits to residents and utility companies.
• Review and issue oversize load permits.
• Process document imaging of department
documents.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The revenue stream in 2025-26 is expected to
remain at prior year levels. The expenditure
budget has been increased for City Traffic
Engineering Services to include a Citywide
Speed Survey.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Capital Improvement Program Oversight
Provide plans, specifications, estimates and
right-of-way documents, coordinate
consultants, and administer contracts. Fiscal
Year 2025-26 CIP Project oversight includes
Quito Road Bridges replacement, Bellgrove
Park Playground Replacement, Pedestrian
Streetlights Installations, Pierce Road
Culvert Repairs, ARPA Funded Projects, and
the Annual Pavement Management
Program.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
120
• Traffic Management – Receive resident
traffic safety concerns and investigate by
means of the city’s Traffic Engineer and
Traffic Safety Commission as needed. With
approximately 1,800 deputy hours focused
on traffic control services, the Sheriff works
with the City’s schools and the Traffic Safety
Committee to improve traffic management
around school activity. Future traffic
management projects for the upcoming year
will include roadway markings for traffic
calming on various streets by direction of the
Commission. Larger projects include the
installation of bike lanes on Saratoga Avenue
and Allendale Avenue.
• Laserfiche Document Management
Project – Staff will continue to prepare the
backlog of Public Works documents for
scanning services, and when returned, will
assess the quality of the files to ensure they
are legible, complete, and correctly scanned
and indexed.
General Engineering
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Respond to traffic safety concerns from residents:100%100%100%100%100%
b. Utilize traffic engineer experts to identify solutions to potential
roadway hazards:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a.Issue encroachment permits for residential projects within 3
weeks of receipt of application:
100%100%100%100%100%
b.Maintain average pavement condition index at a rating of 70 or
above:
No No No No No
c. Establish best practices roadway maintenance plans, such as for
resurfacing, pothole repairs, tree pruning, and weed control:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
d.Respond to road hazard complaints within 48 hours of
notification:
100%100%100%Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.30 35 16 25 25
2.468 513 579 586 500
3.7 5 4 5 4
4.110 145 200 200 150
Number of bids issued:
Number of contracts executed:
Increase roadway safety through effective traffic management
practices.
Maintain safe, well-functioning roadway infrastructure.
Number of traffic concerns investigated and reviewed by Traffic
Safety Committee:
Number of encroachment permits issued:
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
121
Development Engineering
Engineering Development Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Engineering Development
Revenue 78,450 -585 43,538 10,000 0 67,551
440 - Charges for services 78,450 -585 43,538 10,000 0 67,551
Expense 155,268 158,480 183,120 186,046 187,877 195,730
500 - Salaries & Benefits 86,833 91,065 98,146 99,390 102,971 102,305
610 - Operating Expenses 304 1,068 655 750 750 750
640 - Contract Services 289 228 0 250 0 250
650 - Professional
Services
2,670 1,820 2,735 4,000 2,500 4,000
790 - Internal Services 65,171 64,300 81,583 81,656 81,656 88,425
Engineering Development
Total (76,818) (159,065) (139,582) (176,046) (187,877) (128,179)
The Development Engineering Program, in
coordination with the City’s Community
Development Department, provides services for
private development projects to ensure they are
constructed in accordance with City
standards. Development Engineering Services
includes reviewing engineering plans and
specifications, subdivision maps, and lot line
adjustments; and controlling encroachments in
the public right-of-way connected to private
developments ensuring compliance with the
City’s NPDES permit. This program seeks to
fully recover the costs associated with
development services. Key services include:
• Review and comment on Design Reviews
and Tentative Map applications.
• Review initial improvement plan submittals.
• Issue encroachment permits for single family
developments.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Fiscal Year 2025-26 revenues are based on the
number of development projects received.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 budgeted expenditures
continue to reflect a shift of staff time from
development oversight to general engineering
program work. With Community Development
staff providing more of the development
services, engineering staff are now freed up to
focus on City infrastructure projects. The
remainder of program expenditures reflect
minimal operational costs other than staff salary
and internal service charges. Operational
expenses include a small amount of office
supplies and external civil engineering services.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Development Review – Review
applications for compliance with City, State
and Federal laws for public improvements in
the city’s right-of-way. Process subdivision
development plans, reviewing for traffic
impacts.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
122
Development Engineering
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percentage of development applications reviewed within 30
days:
100%100%100%100%100%
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.72 46 45 50 50
2.N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
3.3 2 1 23 1
Maintain a high quality of life through development review by
adhering to City standards.
Number of development applications processed:
Development applications requiring geological review:
Number of subdivision plan check reviews processed:
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
123
Environmental Services
Environmental Services Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Environmental Services
Revenue 277,344 231,442 428,683 59,296 208,994 213,965
413 - Other Taxes 100,000 100,000 99,999 0 0 0
416 - Franchises &
Surcharges
149,086 105,408 302,272 46,296 192,942 213,965
420 - Intergovernmental 28,257 26,033 26,413 13,000 16,052 0
Expense 972,656 983,742 1,434,946 930,060 765,135 895,610
500 - Salaries & Benefits 311,347 326,075 320,288 377,370 327,509 275,517
610 - Operating Expenses 389,409 360,387 557,014 346,743 310,083 349,243
640 - Contract Services 239,825 260,639 512,279 159,000 80,000 220,000
650 - Professional Services 0 4,991 4,991 5,000 5,596 6,000
790 - Internal Services 32,076 31,650 40,374 41,947 41,947 44,850
Environmental Services Total (695,312) (752,300) (1,006,263) (870,764) (556,141) (681,645)
The City of Saratoga’s Environmental Services
Program supports an Environmental Program in
the Public Works Department that oversees the
following three areas relating to sustainability:
solid waste management; clean water
compliance; and clean energy. The level of
service delivery to community members and
agency compliance for these three areas are
mostly guided by state laws and regional
requirements. Key services include:
• Provide street sweeping services for the
City’s streets and parking lots.
• Provide storm drain cleaning.
• Manage the City’s Clean Water Program to
fulfill the City’s requirements of the NPDES
permit.
• Manage the City’s agreements with the West
Valley solid waste Joint Powers Authority
and the hauler to ensure that community
members are receiving quality integrated
waste management collection services and
paying reasonable service rates.
• Monitor sustainability programs that are
offered in other cities to ensure that the same
programs are offered to Saratoga community
members.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Saratoga’s share of the Solid Waste JPA
assessment will increase due to additional
general services costs for implementation of the
City’s Mandatory Organic Waste Disposal
Reduction Ordinance mandated by SB 1383,
Collection Contract Implementation, Franchise
Fee Study, C&D Program Development, Street
Sweeping Program, Development, and Grant
Administration.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
124
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Clean Water Program –Continue to work
with the West Valley Storm Water Authority
(WVSA) – formerly the West Valley Clean
Water Program Authority (WVCWPA) - staff
to meet regulations resulting from the
National Pollution Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) and their Municipal
Regional Permit (MRP). The MRP regulates
regional stormwater regulations for activities
related to construction sites, industrial sites,
illegal discharges and illicit connections, new
development, and municipal operations.
Cities must renew their MRP every 5 years
and during that period of time, the state has
the ability to tighten regulation regional
requirements. Changes in state
requirements most directly impact the City’s
General Fund.
• Hazardous Household Waste – Continue
efforts to inform Saratoga residents of the
HHW program and the proper disposal of
hazardous substances. The goal is to
increase participation levels.
• Solid Waste Management – Continue to
work with the West Valley Solid Waste
Management Authority and residents to
provide quality solid waste and recycling
services to Saratoga community members
and remain in compliance with state
mandated programs. Most recently, the state
passed Senate Bill 1383 (SB1383) in 2016 to
reduce organic waste disposal by 75% and
increase edible food recovery by 20% by
2025. Under this law, jurisdictions must
provide organics recycling services to nearly
all residents and businesses. Jurisdictions
must also develop or expand existing organic
collection systems in all sectors and plan for
adequate organic processing. The City
adopted its Mandatory Organic Waste
Disposal Reduction Ordinance in November
2021 to comply with the SB 1383
requirements. Additionally, jurisdictions
must implement other requirements, such as
contamination monitoring, record keeping,
and reporting and enforcement. The City will
experience an increase in spending to
comply with SB 1383 and the expenses will
be paid by the City’s operating budget.
• Clean Energy Program – Continue to meet
the goals of the Saratoga Climate Action
Plan 2030 and work with local and regional
agencies to support sustainable best
practices. Over the past few years, the City
has been increasing energy efficiency in
buildings, electrifying buildings and
appliances, accelerating zero emission
vehicle adoption, and using clean, renewable
energy sources. The City works in
partnership with Silicon Valley Clean Energy
(SCVE) since 2016 to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions within the Saratoga
community. In 2017, the City began
purchasing 100% renewable electricity from
SVCE for all municipal facilities. In 2019, the
City adopted a green building reach code
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.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
125
Environmental Services
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Tons of solid waste collected in Saratoga:22,000 9,743 9,500 8,675 9,000
b.Tons of solid waste diverted from landfills:12,000 14,269 14,000 14,275 14,000
c.Meet State requirements for garbage diversion:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a.Percentage of regional meetings attended:100%100%100%100%100%
b. Percentage of required reports completed and submitted by
deadline:
100%100%100%100%100%
3
a.Percentage of regional meetings attended:100%100%100%100%100%
b. Respond to reports of illicit and illegal discharges:100%100%100%100%100%
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.1182 836 2000 984 800
2.Miles of streets swept per month:550 550 550 550 550
3.1 1 1 1 1
Number of Saratoga residents participating in Countywide
Household Hazardous Waste Program:
Number of bags of garbage collected at creek clean-up events:
Provide effective oversight of waste collection and recycling
programs.
Meet requirements of the Non-Point Source Pollution Prevention
Permit specified for City staff:
Protect Saratoga's natural environment through participation in the
West Valley Clean Water Program.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
126
Streets and Storm Drains
The Streets and Storm Drains Program provides
for ongoing maintenance and minor repairs to
the City’s roadways, storm drains, asphalt
pathways, bridges, curbs, gutters, and concrete
sidewalks to ensure the City’s public
infrastructure is maintained in a safe,
sustainable, and cost-effective manner.
Program activities include small street repair
projects, filling of potholes, maintenance of
roadway signs, traffic markings (paint), signals,
streetlights, and debris removal. Streets
program staff coordinate program work with the
General Engineering Program for traffic and
roadway projects, and with the Parks Program
for weed control and storm drain work. Auxiliary
duties include storm preparation and cleanup,
risk management/damage prevention activities,
responding to public requests, and emergency
preparedness functions. Other key services
include:
• Maintain roadway infrastructure with minor
repairs, provide roadside weed control, and
conduct litter pickup and bicycle lane
sweeping along arterial streets and school
sites.
• Remove illegal signage from public rights-of-
way.
• Resolve sight distance, obstruction, and
encroachment complaints.
• Respond to graffiti removal requests.
• Inspect open channel drainage facilities to
ensure blockages do not impede drainage
flows.
• Respond to emergencies impacting
roadways, drainage, and other City facilities.
• Assist with community events, such as the
Chamber of Commerce’s Village events, the
Blossom Festival, the 4th of July event, and
the Annual Village Tree Lighting.
• Report PG&E owned streetlight outages to
PG&E.
• Repair City owned streetlights.
2025-26 Notable Changes
The City expects approximately $200,000 per
year from a voter approved $10 Vehicle
Registration Fee surcharge which is used to help
support this program’s maintenance activities.
While roadway resurfacing contracts and related
expenses are funded in the Capital Improvement
Plan, staffing costs for contract oversight and
roadway maintenance services are provided
Streets & Storm Drains Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Streets & Storm Drains
Revenue 188,243 191,908 228,397 200,000 203,917 200,000
420 - Intergovernmental 186,722 176,838 226,501 200,000 200,000 200,000
440 - Charges for
services 1,521 15,070 1,896 0 2,627 0
460 - Use of money & property 0 0 1,290 0
Expense 1,915,775 2,044,283 2,238,757 2,366,067 2,397,107 2,554,030
500 - Salaries & Benefits 1,080,951 1,137,591 1,164,619 1,177,930 1,219,970 1,240,548
610 - Operating
Expenses 103,980 107,556 121,626 131,540 150,540 144,247
640 - Contract Services 248,052 318,446 341,462 304,500 274,500 315,000
790 - Internal Services 482,792 480,690 611,050 752,097 752,097 854,235
Streets & Storm Drains
Total (1,727,532) (1,852,374) (2,010,361) (2,166,067) (2,193,190) (2,354,030)
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
127
through this General Fund Street and Storm
Drain Maintenance Operating Budget program,
through both staff and contract service
efforts. Other expenditures in this budget
include funding for traffic light repair services,
street tree maintenance, minor tools, supplies,
equipment, and training for staff to carry out this
work, as well as internal service charges to
support the program.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Pavement Management – Street Program
staff will manage various street capital
projects and all maintenance work on City
roadways (145 miles), storm drains (45
miles), sidewalks (15 miles), bridges (20), as
well as maintain approximately 15,000 signs
and street restriping as needed. Council
Policy, effective 2016-17, set a goal of $2
million of funding be designated for Street
Resurfacing in the Capital Budget. Funding
from the VTA Measure B program, Gas Tax,
General Fund allocations, and various grants
provides the remainder of CIP Street project
funding while Street staff time and regular
maintenance work is budgeted in the
Operating Budget. In 2025-26 the budget will
be $3.1 million, which represents additional
revenue from PMP dedicated revenues and
Gas Tax.
• Infrastructure Maintenance & Repairs –
Projects administered under the Roadway
Infrastructure Maintenance & Repairs capital
project are supported by Streets and Storm
Drain program staff, with supplies or contract
services funded by the CIP.
• Retaining Wall Maintenance – Projects
administered under the CIP for Retaining Wall
repair projects are funded through the CIP but
supported by Streets and Storm Drain
program staff in the operating budget. Minor
retaining wall maintenance expenses will
continue to be funded through the operating
budget.
Streets & Storm Drains
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Maintain Pavement Condition Index average above 70 (out of
100 total points):
65 68 67 65 69
b.Percentage of potholes repaired within 24 hours of notification:100%100%100%100%100%
2.
a.Storm drains cleaned and maintained to function properly and
avert damage from major storm events:
1,050 1,050 1,050 1,050 1,050
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.1,200 172 1,500 15 25
2.$0 $0 $0 $0 $0
To provide safe and functional roadway systems throughout the
City.
Maintain safe, well-functioning infrastructure.
Number of signs installed and replaced:
Amount of grant funding the City received for street resurfacing:
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
128
Parks & Landscape Maintenance
Parks & Landscape Services Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Parks & Landscape Services
Revenue 143,075 135,067 148,408 156,989 158,359 174,071
440 - Charges for services 128,787 130,167 146,632 151,489 147,068 167,291
460 - Use of money &
property
14,288 4,900 1,776 5,500 11,291 6,780
Expense 2,904,740 2,845,192 3,410,209 3,863,711 3,946,676 4,372,149
500 - Salaries & Benefits 1,157,457 1,141,283 1,314,336 1,359,080 1,372,596 1,395,862
610 - Operating Expenses 485,241 478,541 604,140 596,225 701,924 583,475
640 - Contract Services 820,487 773,389 928,257 1,235,100 1,198,850 1,636,180
770 - Fixed Assets 0 12,526 0 0 0 0
790 - Internal Services 441,555 439,453 563,477 673,306 673,306 756,632
Parks & Landscape Services
Total (2,761,665) (2,710,125) (3,261,801) (3,706,722) (3,788,317) (4,198,078)
The focus of the Parks & Landscape
Maintenance Program is to provide attractive,
well maintained, water efficient landscaping and
turf through the management and maintenance
of the City’s parks, trails, open spaces, and
facility grounds, as well as the landscaped
medians and islands in the roadways.
Facilities within the City’s parks, trails, and open
spaces such as bathrooms, pedestrian lighting,
walkways, playground, and other recreation
facilities are safe, clean, and well-maintained for
residents and visitors. The Parks & Landscape
Maintenance Program is responsible for
maintaining 87 acres of parkland in 14 parks, and
250 acres of trails and open space areas
throughout the City. The City-owned Hakone
Gardens Park Japanese Garden areas are
tended by a separate non-profit foundation;
however, the City continues to maintain the
facility’s infrastructure. Key services include:
• Maintain all parks, trails, and open space
areas in a safe, usable, and attractive
condition.
• Foster community awareness and support of
the City’s parks and open space resources.
• Coordinate and assist sport groups with use
and care of recreational facilities.
• Aid with community events, such as the
Chamber of Commerce’s Art & Wine
Festival, the Blossom Festival, the 4th of July
event, the Annual Village Tree Lighting,
Arbor Day, Movie Night, and the Heritage
Orchard Community Harvest.
• Provide attractive, well maintained
landscaped areas with plant maintenance
and functioning irrigation systems.
• Maintain trash receptacles throughout the
City.
• Provide management and oversight of the
City’s Landscape & Lighting District contract
maintenance work.
• Conduct monthly playground inspections to
maintain safety standards.
• Maintain pedestrian lighting fixtures
throughout City parks, properties, and
Landscaping and Lighting Districts.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Contract services for tree work and maintenance
will continue to increase. Additional funding has
been added for the Citywide Tree Inventory
project. The Park & Landscape Maintenance
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
129
expenditure budget includes funding for
landscaping materials, supplies, equipment, and
services. Annual funding is included to replenish
playground Fibar at the various parks and
additional tree work. The cost of water continues
to play an important role in Parks & Landscape
operations, making drought tolerant planting a
focus. The remainder of the expenditure budget
is for staffing and internal service charges.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Water Efficiency – The Parks and
Landscape Maintenance Program will
continue to monitor the City’s irrigation
system to reduce water use through plant
selection, soil management, and irrigation
methods. Turf areas will continue to be
investigated as potential conversion sites
into native landscape, hardscape or mulched
areas to reduce water usage.
• Playground Safety Improvements – Staff
continues to oversee the safety and
structural integrity of playground equipment
at all parks. Improvements include
converting sand surfaces to engineered
wood fiber material as mandated by the “Fall
Zone/Impact Attenuation Guidelines.” In
2025-26, Bellgrove Park will be improved
with updated designs of playground
equipment and all rubber surfacing.
• Playground Monitoring – Monitor
playgrounds on an on-going basis in
accordance with a 15 to 25-year replacement
schedule. Replacement criteria are based
on major equipment wear and tear and
changes in safety regulations on outdated
structures.
• Parks, Trails, Grounds & Medians (PTGM)
Fixed Asset Oversight – Staff will manage
PTGM fixed asset replacements in
accordance with funding availability in the
PTGM capital project, assessing and revising
replacements schedules as necessary.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
130
Parks & Landscape Maintenance
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percentage of parks with playground equipment inspected
monthly:
100%100%100%100%100%
2.
a.Percentage of reports of needed park maintenance receiving
response within 48 hours:
100%100%100%100%100%
b.Percentage of reports of needed trail maintenance receiving
response within 48 hours:
100%100%100%100%100%
3.
a.Staff Maintenance workers maintaining pesticide licenses:100%100%100%100%100%
b.Improved irrigation controllers installed to increase water
efficiency:
3 1 32 3 5
c.Turf removed and converted to landscape or hardscape for
water conservation (in square feet):15,088 0 0 0 0
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals
1.191 191 191 191 191
2.10 7 8 3 5
3.6 5 6 6 6Parks and Recreation Commission Meetings:
Maintain safety standards in parks and playgrounds.
Protect Saratoga's natural beauty by maintaining parks and open
space.
Protect the environment through sustainable practices.
Total acres of City parks maintained:
Total number of new trees planted in City parks:
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
131
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Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
132
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/
(Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance
Revenue 275,000 273,263 274,770 350,000 350,000 400,000
460 - Use of money & property 275,000 273,263 274,770 350,000 350,000 400,000
Expense 298,688 283,193 362,735 375,083 355,683 450,607
500 - Salaries & Benefits 114,295 102,993 128,649 134,720 133,888 140,370
610 - Operating Expenses 77,982 73,031 69,608 68,100 74,532 85,200
640 - Contract Services 46,617 49,275 86,552 90,000 65,000 130,000
790 - Internal Services 59,794 57,894 77,926 82,263 82,263 95,037
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance
Total 160,705 170,270 146,121 215,280 216,112 259,630
The Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance Fund
Program is operated as an Internal Service Fund
and ensures that all vehicles and equipment are
safe and function well. Staff maintain the repair,
ownership, warranty, and maintenance records
of vehicle and equipment inventory and perform
monthly operational tests of emergency
generators. Mechanical and body work repairs
are provided through auto and equipment shops
and services. Key services include:
• Provide preventative maintenance and
repairs for all City owned vehicles and
equipment.
• Comply with State and County air quality
requirements.
• Maintain the City’s fueling system and
equipment.
• Perform routine safety inspections to ensure
safe operation of fleet.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Revenues from this program reflect allocated
charges to departments with assigned vehicles
for the cost of providing maintenance and repair
services and fueling vehicles and
equipment. The Internal Service Fund
chargeback increased to $350,000 in
anticipation of increased maintenance costs.
Increases in the cost of fuel are offset in part by
the transition to more electric vehicles in the
fleet.
The Vehicle & Maintenance program
chargeback is set approximately equal to
operating expenditure. At year-end, any net
operations savings help to increase fund balance
reserves in line with Council policy. Overall, this
budget supports the Council’s objective to
maintain vehicles and equipment in a safe,
secure, sustainable, and cost-effective manner.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Fleet Maintenance – The Vehicle &
Equipment Maintenance program tracks
vehicle and equipment repair and
maintenance history. Staff will continue to
refine maintenance schedules and
recordkeeping activities to ensure all City
vehicles & equipment are included in
replacement schedules.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
133
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percentage of fleet vehicles receiving annual safety inspections:100%100%100%100%100%
b.Percentage of fleet vehicles receiving annual preventative
maintenance:
100%100%100%100%100%
2.
a.Percentage of City vehicle fleet using alternate fuels (including
hybrid vehicles):
25%20%20%20%20%
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.25 30 29 27 27
2.52 27 58 29 29
3.6 1 8 13 10Number of required smog checks performed per year:
Provide safe and functional vehicles and equipment for City use.
Protect natural resources through sustainable practices.
Number of vehicles maintained:
Number of oil changes performed per year:
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
134
Vehicle & Equipment Replacement
Vehicle & Equipment Replacement Internal Service Fund Net Revenue/
(Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Vehicle & Equipment Replacement
Revenue 150,000 149,053 150,050 50,000 50,000 150,000
460 - Use of money & property 150,000 149,053 150,050 50,000 50,000 150,000
Expense 146,474 118,436 88,539 187,676 187,676 403,534
615 - Operating Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 0
770 - Fixed Assets 146,474 118,436 88,539 187,676 187,676 403,534
Vehicle & Equipment
Replacement Total 3,526 30,617 61,511 (137,676) (137,676) (253,534)
The Equipment Replacement Fund Program
provides a consistent level of funding for the
replacement of vehicle and equipment assets at
the end of their life span. With the high level of
care and maintenance staff put into the City’s
vehicles, the replacement schedules reflect a
longer than average life span than other
agencies use. The City uses ten years for most
vehicles and trucks, whereas other cities use
five-seven years for general purpose vehicles. A
vehicle or equipment’s life span could be shorter
or longer than expected, but with a replacement
fund, adjustments can be made without
significantly impacting the ongoing operating
budget. Key services include:
• Accumulate and provide annual funding for
asset replacement.
• Assess vehicles and equipment for proper
replacement timing.
• Prepare cost effectiveness study for asset
replacement program.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Several pieces of equipment are scheduled
for replacement in 2025-26. At present, the
annual $150,000 per year chargeback amount is
expected to maintain asset replacement for the
next several years. Operating expenditure for
this program is limited to replacement costs
only. New assets must first be purchased
through the owning department’s Operating
Budget per approval by the Council. Once
purchased, the assets are added to the
replacement fund list, and then the cost to
replace the asset is charged over the life of the
asset, so that the funds are there when
needed. Scheduled replacements are assessed
and may be delayed on a year-by-year basis to
ensure adequate funding levels are in place.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Streets Equipment Replacement –
Purchase replacement paint sprayer, trailer,
and pressure washer in accordance with the
2025-26 replacement schedule.
• Parks Replacement Equipment –
Purchase replacement parks equipment in
accordance with the 2025-26 replacement
schedule.
The full list of replacements assets scheduled for
2025-26 are identified in the following Equipment
Replacement Schedule.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
135
2025-26 VEHICLE & EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT SCHEDULE
Current Yr Current Asset Replacement Replacement
Type/Program Asset # Purch Vehicle/ Equipment Life Purpose Cost
Vehicles
PW Parks 129 2016 Chevy 3500 Dump 10 Parks 2 man crew 95,000
PW Streets 130 2016 Chevy 3500 Dump/crane 10 Streets 2 man crew 110,000
PW Streets 131 2016 Chevy 3500 Dump/crane 10 Streets 2 man crew 110,000
Special Use Vehicles
Equipment
PW Streets E001 1996 Paint Sprayer Graco 3500 21 Graffiti abatement 3,500
PW Streets E018 2002 Jacobsen Trailer 21 Trailer for Graco Line Lazzar 13,000
PW Streets E059 1985 Top Gun Pressure Washer 15 Pressure Washer 3,500
PW Parks E048 2010 Fertilizer Spreader 15 Fertilizer Spreader 22,207
PW Parks E054 2014 John Deere Gator 10 Gator Utility Vehicle 44,237
PW Parks E064 2016 Roadclipper Trailer 72" 10 Trailer for Toro Mower 3,371
PW Parks E080 2014 Gravely Utility Vehicle 9 Utility Vehicle 18,719
TOTAL REPLACEMENT FUNDING $ 423,534
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
136
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Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
137
Lighting and Landscape Districts
The City’s Landscape and Lighting District
comprises 24 landscape and/or lighting zones,
as well as two storm drain maintenance zones
located throughout the City. These zones are
created when a majority of property owners
residing along or within the boundaries of the
zones choose to establish a legal entity that
authorizes the City to collect a parcel
assessment and maintain the zone on their
behalf. Funding for these zones is obtained
through property tax assessments or benefit
assessments approved by the property owners.
Benefit assessment-based zones are exempt
from the requirements of Proposition 218, which
mandates a 2/3 majority approval, unless there
is a request to increase the approved
assessment rates. According to Section 5 of
Proposition 218, assessments existing as of
November 1996 are not subject to the measure
if they were initially imposed based on a petition
signed by all the parcel owners subject to the
assessment at that time. Consequently, the City
is not obligated to conduct an election among the
property owners unless there is a proposal to
raise the annual assessment beyond the limits
defined in the existing agreement.
Since the passage of Proposition 218, the City
has ensured that annual increases are
incorporated into the assessment agreements to
allow for up to 5% assessment increases. As
operational costs continue to rise each year,
these built-in annual escalation allowances
enable the City to maintain the same level of
services consistently. Only two of the zones
established prior to the enactment of Proposition
218 currently lack this provision for annual
increases in their agreements.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Each year there are moderate increase in
assessments due to increases in electricity,
water, landscaping services and contract
maintenance services.
There is also a pro-rated administrative fee for
staffing administration and oversight, legal fees,
and engineering services. The Landscape &
Lighting District administrative service fee
expense is, in turn, a revenue to the Parks &
Landscape Maintenance program.
In compliance with Regional Water Control
Board permit requirements, the City creates
Clean Water Assessment Zones for private
developments that meet the threshold of
mitigation. Currently, there are two zones of this
kind for the City. Five new zones, which will
provide funding for automatic license plate
readers are anticipated for fiscal year 2025-26.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• District Zone Assessments – Staff will
continue to closely monitor all Landscape &
Lighting Assessment District Zones for
appropriate service and funding levels and to
assess whether assessment increases are
needed for several of the districts with low
fund balances.
• Clean Water Assessment Zones – The
Regional Water Control Board conditions
development projects of a certain size to
contain storm water infrastructure to protect
water ways. These conditions require the
City to ensure that inspections, maintenance,
and capital expenditures are conducted into
the future. To fund these expenditures, the
City creates assessment zones to manage
property tax assessments and
expenditures. Staff oversees these storm
water activities and will continue to create
and maintain additional storm water
assessment zones as required.
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
138
Number of Parcel Total Total Total
Zone Fund Assessment Zones Parcels Assessment Assessment Property Tax Admin Fee
Lighting Zones
6 233 Sarahills Lighting 64 113 7,248 - 2,918
Landscape Zones
11 241 Arroyo de Saratoga Landscape 250 74 18,518 - 13,022
15 242 Bonnet Way Landscape 41 120 4,906 - 2,150
33 243 Carnelian Glen Landscape 20 276 5,522 - 1,436
27 244 Cunningham/Glasgow Landscape 31 402 12,452 - 1,810
2 245 Fredericksburg Landscape 85 181 15,360 1,600 4,400
3 246 Greenbriar Landscape 176 140 24,591 10,000 10,506
28 247 Kerwin Ranch Landscape 16 1,047 16,744 - 1,300
12 248 Leutar Court Landscape 9 535 4,811 - 1,062
1 249 Manor Drive Landscape 29 105 3,040 6,500 1,742
9 251 McCartysville Landscape 48 524 25,157 - 2,388
22 252 Prides Crossing Landscape 863 148 127,896 - 34,617
25 253 Saratoga Legends Landscape 15 1,033 15,500 - 1,266
17 254 Sunland Park Landscape 200 145 29,054 - 11,322
10 255 Tricia Woods Landscape 9 232 2,088 - 1,062
36 256 Allendale Landscape 43 141 6,052 - 1,487
Landscape & Lighting Zones
37 257 Covina Landscape & Lighting 192 119 22,910 - 11,050
16 271 Beauchamps Landscape & Lighting 55 240 13,211 - 4,590
26 272 Bellgrove Landscape & Lighting 94 1,497 140,680 - 6,774
32 273 Gateway Landscape & Lighting 34 - 13,305 - 2,660
31 274 Horseshoe Landscape & Lighting 53 322 17,091 - 4,478
29 276 Tollgate Landscape & Lighting 61 238 14,517 - 4,926
34 278 Westbrook Landscape & Lighting 92 72 6,604 - 3,074
39 279 Brookview Landscape & Lighting 326 111 36,179 - 15,606
Landscape & Lighting Zones (ALPR)
41 280 Saratoga Woods L&L 376 51 19,109 - 3,587
42 281 Gardiner Park L&L 109 84 9,179 - 1,680
43 282 Lower Pierce L&L 46 115 5,295 - 932
44 283 Golden Triangle L&L 909 37 33,488 - 6,896
45 284 Burgundy L&L 76 81 6,129 - 1,129
46 285 Austin Bainter L&L 48 126 6,054 - 1,055
47 286 Padero 19 75 3,758 - 608
48 287 Glen Una L&L 132 116 15,181 - 2,581
40 288 Quito Oaks L&L 10 854 8,544 - 1,281
Storm Drain Zones
35 291 Hill Ave Storm Water 5 536 2,679 - 916
38 292 Paramount Court Storm Drain 7 418 2,926 - 980
35 4,543 695,779$ 18,100$ 167,291
Annual Zone Assessments
FY 2025-26
Public Works Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
139
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CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
140
Community Services Program Budgets
Department Overview
The primary goal of the Community Services
Department is to strengthen the City’s relationships
with residents through City events, such as Summer
Movie Nights, facilitating Community Event grants,
work with our Orchard Ambassadors and the harvest
season, volunteer programs, engages with our youth
through the Youth Commission and Youth in
Government, and builds community through
outreach and engagement.
Community Services Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Community Services
City Events -22,270 -50,793 -22,253 -29,000 -29,000 -25,000
Community Engagement -213,328 -166,509 -198,299 -240,790 -240,540 -268,574
Community Event Grants -19,443 -37,656 -58,476 -73,900 -73,900 -91,000
Community Support Service -179,820 -165,758 -188,260 -186,100 -186,100 -186,995
Facility Rentals -233,834 -138,869 -81,229 -180,730 -147,515 -221,057
Recreation -81,059 -87,264 -52,345 -59,709 -59,709 -59,666
Community Services Total (749,755) (646,850) (600,863) (770,229) (713,233) (852,292)
Community Services Serving Youth
Manages the Youth Commission and
annual Youth in Government
program
Orchard Harvest
Manages the City's annaul orchard
harvest program
Community Engagement
Strengthens relationships between
the City and its residents
City Events
Hosts City events that bring the
community together
Community Event Grants
Allows event organizers to seek
funding in support of Community
funding
Community Support Services
Grants provide grant support to
outside agencies
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
141
Recreation
Recreation Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Recreation
Revenue 14,500 0 65,285 52,000 52,000 75,000
440 - Charges for services 0 0 0 0 0 0
460 - Use of money &
property
14,500 0 65,285 52,000 52,000 75,000
Expense 95,559 87,264 117,630 111,709 111,955 134,666
500 - Salaries & Benefits 14,429 9,698 16,247 17,170 17,416 18,467
610 - Operating Expenses 39 7 39 0 0 0
640 - Contract Services 0 0 0 0
790 - Internal Services 81,092 77,559 101,344 94,539 94,539 116,199
Recreation Total (81,059) (87,264) (52,345) (59,709) (59,955) (59,666)
In April 2019, the City Council authorized a two-
year agreement with the Los Gatos-Saratoga
Community Education and Recreation (LGS) to
provide recreation services in the City of
Saratoga. Per the agreement, LGS Recreation
offers a variety of classes and activities at the
Joan Pisani Community Center and Saratoga
Prospect Center. Recreation services provide
health, wellness, arts, and enrichment programs
for all ages. The lease has been extended
through June 30, 2025 and will be reviewed by
Council.
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
142
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Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
143
Facility Rentals
Facility Rentals Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Facility Rentals
Revenue 265,422 354,618 170,711 32,000 65,215 35,000
440 - Charges for services 0 0 0 0 0 0
460 - Use of money &
property
265,422 354,618 170,711 32,000 65,215 35,000
Expense 499,256 493,487 251,939 212,730 220,635 256,057
500 - Salaries & Benefits 240,368 245,133 5,103 0 4,905 0
610 - Operating Expenses 9,654 5,403 4,284 0 3,000 3,000
640 - Contract Services 5,897 7,874 0 0 0 0
790 - Internal Services 243,337 235,077 242,553 212,730 212,730 253,057
Facility Rentals Total (233,834) (138,869) (81,229) (180,730) (155,420) (221,057)
In October 2023, City staff transitioned facility
rentals to Los Gatos-Saratoga Community
Education and Recreation (LGS) to continue the
City’s tradition of providing high quality, safe,
affordable, clean, and enjoyable facilities that are
convenient to residents for meetings, parties,
receptions, and gatherings in a safe,
sustainable, and cost-effective manner. This
includes rental programs for private individuals,
non-profit, or for-profit-based groups to use for
receptions, parties, events, meetings,
memorials, workshops, or other community
activities. Rental facilities include rooms of
various sizes and uses in the Community Center
and auxiliary buildings, the Warner Hutton
House, the Saratoga Prospect Center complex,
the Civic Theater, and numerous City Park
facilities. The lease has been extended through
June 30, 2025 and will be reviewed by Council.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The service delivery model will save the Facility
Rental Program approximately $140,000 on an
annual basis.
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
144
Facility Rentals
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.According to facility rental survey, the percentage of visitors
who felt their visit to the facility was clean, comfortable, and
safe:
100%100%N/A N/A N/A
b.Percentage of customers which agreed facilities met or exceeded
expectations:
100%100%N/A N/A N/A
2.
a.Percentage of surveyed visitors which agreed the facility was
clean, comfortable, and safe:
100%100%N/A N/A N/A
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.250 500 N/A N/A N/A
2.2,000 2,000 N/A N/A N/A
3.$250 $450 N/A N/A N/A
*
Provide safe, functional, and attractive City buildings for
community use and enjoyment of the public.
Provide safe, functional, and attractive City buildings for the
provision of City services.
The City entered into a strategic partnership with Los Gatos-
to assume management and administration of City facility and park
Number of facility rental applications processed:
Number of fee-based and no-charge (for City meetings, events, etc.)
facility rental hours for public use:
Average dollars per receipt:
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
145
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Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
146
Community Engagement
Community Engagement Services Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Community Engagement Services
Revenue 1,607 1,694 1,202 1,000 1,250 1,500
440 - Charges for services 1,515 1,675 1,202 1,000 1,250 1,500
460 - Use of money & property 92 19 0 0 0 0
Expense 214,935 168,204 199,501 241,790 218,709 270,074
500 - Salaries & Benefits 183,431 138,448 163,730 205,030 176,324 227,818
610 - Operating Expenses 6,973 5,384 4,303 3,550 9,175 9,175
640 - Contract Services 0 0 0 0 0 0
790 - Internal Services 24,532 24,372 31,468 33,210 33,210 33,081
Community Engagement
Services Total (213,328) (166,509) (198,299) (240,790) (217,459) (268,574)
The Community Engagement Program aims to
foster stronger relationships between the City
and its residents, cultivate community and civic
pride, and create a more inclusive and
welcoming environment for all segments of the
community. This program encompasses youth
and school engagement efforts, the inclusion of
individuals with disabilities, and initiatives to
engage older adults, as well as support for Age-
Friendly Community efforts. Key services
include:
• Foster a sense of community and civic pride.
• Increase partnerships and opportunities for
collaboration with local organizations that
serve Saratoga residents.
• Engage all segments of the Saratoga
community, including those at the greatest
risk for isolation.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Division revenues are limited and consist
primarily of donations and nominal participation
fees for programs such as Youth in Government.
Expenditures, other than staff costs, are for
materials and supplies to support these
programs. No notable budget changes this fiscal
year.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• School Partnerships – Continue and
strengthen partnerships with Saratoga-area
schools.
• Community Partners – Increase
connections with various community
organizations that serve Saratoga residents
to create greater awareness of available
services in the City and leverage resources
where appropriate.
• Farmers’ Market – Continue to support the
Mayor during local office hours at the West
Valley Farmers’ Market.
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
147
Community Engagement
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Percentage of time Community Services staff member attends
Youth Commission meetings:
100%100%100%100%100%
b. Annually provide a teen internship program in local
government:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a.Provide community activities to build stronger community
relationships:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
3.Develop and broaden services for underserved populations.
a.Develop and provide services and events for individuals with
Special Needs:
Yes No Yes Yes Yes
b.Provide opportunities annually for individuals with Special
Needs to engage with the City:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Strengthen relationships annually with community-based
organizations that serve target populations, such as older adults
and at-risk groups:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
4.Enhance culture and community through Public Art:
a.Provide opportunities for community engagement in public art: Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.600 800 800 1260 1260
2.21 25 25 125 125
3.0 0 0 1 0
4.8 15 15 15 15
Partner with the community to improve the quality of life for teens.
Promote healthy lifestyles and personal growth through organized
recreation activities.
Number of teen-age volunteer service hours offered:
Number of teen-age volunteers:
Number of utility boxes painted through Paint the City:
Number of Community Event Grant Programs funded:
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
148
City Funded Events
City Events Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
City Events
Expense 22,270 50,793 22,253 29,000 24,500 25,000
500 - Salaries & Benefits 0 0 73 0 0 0
610 - Operating Expenses 22,270 50,793 22,180 29,000 24,500 25,000
City Events Total (22,270) (50,793) (22,253) (29,000) (24,500) (25,000)
The City of Saratoga recognizes the value of
community events and their role in bringing
residents together, fostering community, and
establishing a sense of identity for the City. The
City Funded Events program covers a variety of
City-hosted events. These include
groundbreakings and grand openings, as well as
annual events, such as the Tree Lighting
Ceremony, Arbor Day, and the summer outdoor
movie series, among others. Key services
include:
• Foster a sense of community and civic pride.
• Increase partnerships and opportunities for
collaboration with local organizations that
serve Saratoga residents.
2025-26: No notable budget changes are
expected this fiscal year.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Community Partners – The City’s
engagement efforts also include
strengthening partnerships with community
organizations through the sharing of
resources and collaboration on various
community events.
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
149
City Sponsored Events Schedule
2022
Actuals
2023
Actuals
2024
Actual
2025
Budget
2025
Estimated
2026
Proposed
City Celebrations
State of the City Event 4,565 6,769
5,478 6,000 6,000 6,000
Village Celebrations
Village Tree Lighting
Event 2,058 475 - 2,000 2,000 2,000
Celebration of Light 2,119 547
93 2,500 - -
Community Events
Outdoor Movie Nights 8,116 10,482
8,001 7,500 8,250 8,500
Arbor Day Celebration 574 535 - 500 500 500
Public Safety Events - 5,283 - 5,000 5,000 5,000
Color Dash 4,188 382
2,885 3,500 - -
Community Harvest - 1,454
829 2,000 2,000 2,000
Total Annual Sponsored
Events 22,270 50,793
22,180 29,000 23,750 24,000
Total Community Event
Funding 22,270 50,793
22,180 29,000 23,750 24,000
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
150
Community Events Grants
Community Event Grants Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Community Event Grants
Expense 19,443 37,656 58,476 73,900 70,900 91,000
610 - Operating
Expenses 19,443 37,656 58,476 73,900 70,900 91,000
Community Event Grants
Total
(19,443) (37,656) (58,476) (73,900) (70,900) (91,000)
Community events help bring people together,
foster a sense of pride, and can define the
identity of a city. In recognition of the value of
events and the City’s limited ability to host
events, the City Council established a
Community Event Grant Program to allow event
organizers to seek funding to support community
events in Saratoga.
In recent years, the event grant program has
evolved to include secured and competitive
funding allocations. The City Council has
identified several cornerstone events that now
receive secured grant funding. The organizers of
these events do not have to go through a formal
application process to receive grant funding.
Those seeking competitive grant funding may
apply during the annual application process. All
event grants, including secured and unsecured
grants, must meet the following criteria:
• Must be a volunteer-led event held in
Saratoga
• Event is free and open to everyone
• Event concentrates on Saratoga’s character,
diversity, or history
• Event celebrates the community as a whole
and is not limited to a small group, such as
reunions
Additionally, allocations of unsecured grant
funds are now capped at $2,000, secured grant
recipients may not participate in the annual
application process, and event organizers must
obtain a minimum $1 million in liability coverage
for the event.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The event grants awarded by the City Council
help community groups pay for expenses
associated with coordinating events, including
City-related fees (i.e., permits, park attendants,
renting parks or facilities), security,
entertainment, signage, event materials and
food. A total of $13,000 has been allocated for
2025-26 competitive funding community event
grants.
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
151
2022 2023 2024 2025 2025 2026
Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget Estimated Proposed
Chamber of Commerce Events
Misc Chamber Festivals 10,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 25,000 25,000
Community Celebrations
Community Events - General - - - 7,400 8,000 8,000
Month of the Child Celebration 2,000 -
Blossom Festival 5,083 5,424 5,184 5,000 5,000 5,000
Saratoga My Home - - - 1,400
Community Mitzvah Day - - - 2,000
Saratoga Community Band 795 634 968 1,250 1,250 1,000
Sister City Celebration - 2,000 2,170 -
Cultural Celebrations
Hakone Matsuri - 6,900 7,000 5,000 5,000 5,200
Serbian Food Festival - - - 2,000
Dragon Boat Festival - - - 2,000
Holiday Celebrations
MLK Jr. Day Celebration - 850 850 2,500 2,500 5,000
Memorial Day Event 339 794 851 1,000 1,000 1,000
Fourth of July Event 2,500 2,500 2,500 4,500 4,500 4,500
Healthy City Events
SASCC Health Fair - - - 5,000 5,000 5,000
Saratoga Village Events
Saratoga Village Dev Council Events 725 1,554 1,953 2,000 2,000 2,500
Classic Car Show - - 22,000 25,250 25,250 30,000
Total Community Event Grants 19,443 37,656 58,476 73,900 91,900 92,200
Total Community Event Funding 19,443 37,656 58,476 73,900 91,900 92,200
COMMUNITY EVENT GRANTS SCHEDULE
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
152
Community Support Services
Community Support Service Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Community Support Service
Expense 179,820 165,758 188,260 186,100 185,000 186,995
500 - Salaries & Benefits 0 0 0 2,000 0 0
610 - Operating Expenses 179,820 165,758 188,260 184,100 185,000 186,995
Community Support Service
Total
(179,820) (165,758) (188,260) (186,100) (185,000) (186,995)
The Community Grants program consolidates
the City’s grant support to outside agencies into
one program, thereby retaining historical funding
information. The City allocates grant funding to
local organizations to support the services these
groups provide to the Saratoga community,
including: the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce
for business support; West Valley Community
Services for housing and food services; Catholic
Charities Ombudsmen to support the poor and
vulnerable; and the Saratoga Area Senior
Coordinating Council (SASCC) for operational
support of the Senior Center.
The City also contributes in-kind services, such
as building space and utilities to the Saratoga
Area Senior program as the Senior Center is
located in the City’s Community Center
facilities. This non-profit organization provides a
variety of health services – such as blood
pressure checks, flu shots, vision screening,
hearing tests, and senior nutrition programs, as
well as social and support services – such as tax
return assistance and Fifty-Five Alive driving
program. Recreational games and classes,
including ping-pong, card games, and karaoke
are popular, and the curriculum continues to
expand to other non-cost-recovery services the
senior population finds valuable.
Grant amounts listed reflect City funding
provided to service groups and non-profit
organizations. Non-monetary support, such as
staff assistance, rental and permit waivers, law
enforcement services, and street sweeping
provided to various community groups is
considered part of normal City operations and
therefore not accounted for in the budget. Key
services include:
• Build community and sense of civic pride.
• Provide critical services to vulnerable
Saratoga populations.
• Create a vibrant and thriving business
community.
• Prevent and prepare for wildfire risk.
• Encourage volunteerism.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
No notable budget changes this fiscal year.
Community Services Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
153
2022 2023 2024 2025 2025 2026
Actuals Acutals Actuals Budget Estimated Proposed
Community Services Support
SASCC Senior Services 44,892 46,015 23,008 46,100 48,000 49,495
Adult Care Support 24,282 24,891 24,891 25,000 25,000 25,000
Chamber of Commerce 12,487 4,162 25,979 18,000 20,500 21,000
West Valley Community Services 28,000 28,000 - - 28,000 28,000
United Way 211 Funding 2,000 2,000 - 2,000 2,000 2,000
Catholic Charities Ombudsmen Funding 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000
SCC FireSafe Council - Fuel Reduction Serv 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000
Neighborhood Watch Grant 11,870 5,232 6,037 7,500 6,500 6,500
Total Community Support Services Grants 179,820 165,757 134,914 153,600 185,000 186,995
COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES GRANTS SCHEDULE
Community Services
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
154
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Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
155
Department Overview
The Public Safety Department is comprised of
two safety-oriented programs: the Public Safety
Services Program, which provides day-to-day
law enforcement services; and the Emergency
Preparedness Program which prepares the City
for infrequent large-scale disaster and
emergency occurrences. The assorted Public
Safety functions are delivered through several
external agencies and joint efforts.
The City of Saratoga contracts for law
enforcement services with the Santa Clara
County Sheriff’s Office. Services include traffic,
patrol, and general law enforcement, as well as
ancillary programs to educate the community on
crime prevention, traffic safety, and emergency
response. Animal control services, including
licensing, animal control, and field and shelter
services, are provided on contract by the City of
San Jose Animal Care and Services Division
(SJACS). Fire protection services are provided
to Saratoga residents by Santa Clara County
Fire District (SCCFD) as a separate tax-funded
district. As part of the SCCFD’s emergency
oversight function, they also provide the cities
with staff support for coordinating city-based
emergency response services.
Saratoga is a member of the Silicon Valley
Regional Interoperability Authority
(SVRIA). This local agency coalition task force
has undertaken the mission to design and
implement a comprehensive public safety radio
communications system to improve countywide
communication. In past years, the funding
formula billed the cities directly.
The Emergency Preparedness Program
supports the preparation of both City and
community emergency response efforts in the
event of a significant earthquake, fire, or other
natural or man-made disasters, and coordinates
with various emergency services agencies and
utilities to prepare residents for self-sufficiency
and proper response to emergency events. The
City plans and trains for various situations in the
effort to employ best practices; determine
outstanding needs; create awareness; and
educate City staff about their emergency
response duties. The Emergency Preparedness
Program receives additional support from SCC
Fire and SCC Office of Emergency Services unit
through grants, staff oversight assistance, and
Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) training courses. The CERT programs
train the Saratoga community in Emergency
Preparedness through the planning and
supervision of drills and exercises.
Public Safety Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Public Safety
Emergency Preparedness -128,638 -118,892 -143,788 -263,884 -256,734 -190,931
Public Safety -6,333,993 -7,185,354 -7,415,913 -8,325,585 -7,971,955 -8,837,005
Public Safety Total (6,462,630) (7,304,247) (7,559,702) (8,589,469) (8,228,689) (9,027,936)
Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
156
Public Safety
Public Safety Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Public Safety
Revenue 734,418 420,429 648,292 352,500 706,130 374,500
420 - Intergovernmental 333,912 339,166 337,082 295,000 285,000 317,500
440 - Charges for services 20,116 21,275 16,562 13,000 14,085 13,000
450 - Fines & penalties 92,536 59,988 49,387 44,500 44,000 44,000
460 - Use of money &
property
287,854 0 245,261 0 363,045 0
Expense 7,068,410 7,605,783 8,064,206 8,678,085 8,679,085 9,211,505
610 - Operating Expenses 5,108 4,035 3,299 4,400 5,400 5,400
648 - Public Safety
Contract Services
7,063,303 7,601,748 8,060,907 8,673,685 8,673,685 9,206,105
Public Safety Total (6,333,993) (7,185,354) (7,415,913) (8,325,585) (7,972,955) (8,837,005)
Since the City’s incorporation in 1956, the City
has contracted public safety services with the
Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office rather than
employing in-house police services. The City
has found this option very satisfactory as the
Sheriff provides a full range of services and
competencies associated with a large police
department without the full large City
expense. This is evidenced by the City being
lauded in numerous “safest cities” lists every
year.
• Law enforcement services include traffic
management, patrol and code enforcement,
and response to calls for service and traffic
incidents.
• Public education and participation in
community, school, and neighborhood
groups.
• Crime prevention, deputy response,
investigation, resolution of criminal cases,
and subsequent participation in the
prosecution of offenders.
• Records management functions include
processing deputy reports and citations,
criminal and traffic warrants, and
fingerprinting services.
• School resource officer
• Coordination of Emergency Response
activities with SCC Fire District and City
staff.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The 2025-26 Sheriff Office services contract
increased by $525,200 from the prior year due to
personnel cost and PERS increases. General
Fund revenue is the primary funding source for
Public Safety, but the City also receives external
funding support from public safety related
operational activities and state funding.
The law enforcement contract calls for annual
increases based on the percentage increase in
total compensation provided to patrol deputies or
an average January to December consumer
price index for urban wage earners (CPI/W) plus
2%, whichever is less. The increase over the life
of the agreement will not exceed the annual
cumulative average of CPI/W plus 2%.
Additional budget appropriations in the Public
Safety Program support animal-related services
through a contract with the City of San Jose. A
new contract was executed in June 2024. The
initial terms of the new agreement will go through
June 30, 2027, with the option to extend in two
(2) additional three-year increments through
Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
157
June 30, 2033. Under the new contract, the City
of Saratoga will pay $186,100 for the period of
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Crime Prevention/Neighborhood Watch -
The Sheriff’s burglary suppression efforts
include identifying crime hot spots and
engaging in saturation patrols in high
frequency areas. The crime analyst’s crime
mapping and predictive policing techniques,
and the detective’s investigations and follow-
up efforts have resulted in identifying and
arresting suspects committing burglaries and
preventing further burglaries. Community
outreach and relationship building, along
with public safety presentations to educate
the community on safety awareness and
crime prevention will also continue. The
Sheriff’s Office supports the facilitation of
Neighborhood Watch groups, with the goal of
encouraging citizens to report any suspicious
activity immediately, ultimately improving the
quality of life for all residents.
• Patrol Division – The Sheriff’s Office
West Valley Patrol Division added a bicycle
unit to patrol operations. Deputies assigned
to bicycle patrol focus their enforcement
efforts primarily in the business districts.
Goals include maintaining a visible presence
in busy shopping areas as well as building a
stronger working relationship with City
business partners.
• School Resource Officer – School
Resource Officers are active at the schools,
acting as mentors to students, and
conducting numerous presentations and
drills with students, faculty and parents on
topics including active shooter protocol,
stranger danger, internet and digital media
safety, bullying and suicide awareness,
among others.
• Community Academies – The annual teen
academy provides high school students with
a new perspective of law enforcement,
raising their awareness of issues that may
impact them currently and in their future.
• Automatic License Plate Reader (APLRs)
In 2022, the City implemented a one-year
Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR)
pilot program. In the fall of 2023, the City
decided to implement this program on a
permanent basis. The ALPR system
captures images of vehicle license plates,
then compares license plate numbers
against law enforcement databases which
track vehicles of interest to law enforcement.
Examples may include a stolen vehicle, an
Amber or Silver Alert, etc. If a plate matches
a listing on a database, the system alerts the
Sheriff’s Office so a deputy can be deployed
to investigate. Funding for the ALPR is
included in the 2025-26 operating budget.
Several lighting and landscape districts have
also chosen to take part in this safety
program beginning in fiscal year 2023 with
the cost of those installations paid by the
requested Lighting and Landscaping funds.
Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
158
Public SafetyPerformance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Priority I calls (serious emergency and public hazard):42 59 34 21 34
b.Priority II calls ( immediate response, but non-emergency):2,468 2,865 2,867 2,784 2,558
c.Priority III calls (non-emergency):1,480 1,482 1,321 1,295 1,486
2.
a.Average response to Priority I calls for service:4.91 min 5.26 min 7.66 min 4.45 min 5.53 mins
b.Average response to Priority II calls for service:7.22 min 8.32 min 6.89 min 6.58 mins 7.15 mins
c.Average response to Priority III calls for service:11.46 min 13.11 min 7.54 min 6.30 mins 9.89 mins
3.
a.Prepare and provide city staff with weekly reports of crime
activity in the city:
100%100%100%100%100%
b.Provide community with crime prevention tips and weekly reports
on city website:
100%100%100%100%100%
c. Educate residents through participation in community events and
Neighborhood Watch meetings:
28 39 33 31 30
4.
a.Processing of criminal reports:3 days 3 days 3 days 3 days 3 days
b.Processing of collision reports for involved parties:7 days 7 days 7 days 7 days 7 days
c.Processing of collision reports for insurance companies:7 days 7 days 7 days 7 days 7 days
5.
a. Number of Emergency Operation Plan trainings, drills, or activities
to enhance Emergency Preparedness skills:
62 72 17 27 37
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.12,115 11,615 11,904 11,128 11,673
2.680 710 626 570 646
3.152 187 175 148 158
4.832 897 801 718 804
For effective protection of life and property, ensure a safe and secure
community through diligent enforcement of regulations, codes and law.
Provide Public Safety service response in a timely, professional
manner. Meet or exceed service goals.
Promote Crime Prevention awareness and educate community in the
protection of their neighborhood and property.
Total number of collision reports taken:
Total number of cases assigned to Detectives:
Ensure Sheriff's Office responsiveness to community needs by
documenting and providing response turnaround time to responsible
parties.
Develop Sheriff's Office Emergency Preparedness to provide public
safety leadership in the event of emergency situations.
Radio calls for service received in the city:
Total number of crime reports taken:
Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
159
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Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
160
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency Preparedness Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Emergency Preparedness
Revenue 0 0 7,150 0
420 - Intergovernmental 0 0 6,500 0
460 - Use of money & property 0 0 650 0
Expense 128,638 118,892 143,788 263,884 275,374 190,931
500 - Salaries & Benefits 72,139 48,491 81,238 85,700 87,029 92,360
610 - Operating Expenses 10,943 10,852 15,421 17,200 26,361 16,700
640 - Contract Services 34,965 29,764 0 30,000 30,000 30,000
648 - Public Safety Contract
Services 0 19,250 34,427 119,000 120,000 40,000
790 - Internal Services 10,591 10,536 12,703 11,984 11,984 11,871
Emergency Preparedness Total (128,638) (118,892) (143,788) (263,884) (268,224) (190,931)
The City of Saratoga is responsible for
coordinating emergency response and recovery
efforts in the event of a significant earthquake,
fire, or other natural or man-made disaster. To
prepare for this responsibility, City staff work in
conjunction with the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Clara
County Fire Department (SCCFD), and the
Santa Clara Office of Emergency Management
(OEM) to plan and prepare for emergency
situations.
The City of Saratoga has a robust Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) and is
fortunate to have a dedicated crew of Ham radio
operators organized under the Saratoga
Amateur Radio Association (SARA) that can
step in to assist with emergency
communications. These two organizations meet
regularly to hone skills, orient members, and
conduct exercises so that they can assist in
disaster response efforts if needed. The
members of these organizations also learn about
preparing themselves and their households for
emergencies. Key services include:
• Prepare and update Emergency Operations
Plan Annexes.
• Train City staff and community members on
emergency preparedness.
• Maintain EOC, equipment, and technology to
ensure Saratoga is in compliance with
Federal, State, and County standards and
requirements.
• Plan and supervise emergency drills and
exercises.
• Maintain an emergency shed at Argonaut
Elementary School to serve as a Division
Field Incident Command Post and Rally
Point location.
• Oversee Emergency Management grants as
available.
• Oversee Community Emergency Response
Team.
• Develop and implement disaster event
preparation practices for proper cost
recovery documentation purposes.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
Funding for an emergency preparedness
consultant has been included in the budget to
update the Emergency Operations Plan required
by the State and other emergency preparedness
planning documents.
2025-26 Work Plan and Priorities
• Fuel Reduction – Funding for fuel reduction
is included again in the budget. Evacuation
Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
161
routes in the City’s Wildland Urban Interface
area, which is the part of the City considered
at the greatest risk for wildfire, will be the
priority for fuel reduction efforts. Clearing dry
and dead weeds, brush, and low hanging
limbs along these critical roads helps prevent
spread of fire and can help keep flames
further away from vehicles using evacuation
routes during a disaster.
• Emergency Preparedness Consultant –
The Emergency Operations Plan is
comprised of general procedures for disaster
and emergency response, and individual
topic specific plan annexes. This Plan was
updated in 2018-19. Hazard specific and
function specific annexes to the plan are
under development, such as a Wildfire
Annex and Crisis Communication
Plan. Funding is also included in the budget
to allow for the development of other
emergency planning documents.
Public Safety Program Budgets
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
162
Emergency Operations
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.CERT Training Courses available to community members:No Yes Yes Yes Yes
b. Coordinate community outreach to heighten awareness of
emergency preparedness programs and needs:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
c.Prepare emergency preparedness and public education materials:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
d.Annually coordinate training of City Staff in personal
preparedness and EOC functions:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
2.
a. EOC radios, emergency telephones, and computers available and
quarterly tested to ensure emergency communication needs:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Bi-annually prepare, test, and revise emergency response and
recovery policies, plans, and procedures:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
3.
a.Participates in and/or maintains communication with local, state, or
national emergency preparedness organizations:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b. Remain current on technology and emergency management trends:Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
4.
a.Inter-agency technology and emergency equipment tested and
maintained monthly:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
b.Staff attends annual emergency management meetings and training
programs:
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.1 1 1 1 1
2.1 1 2 2 2
3.1 5 4 4 4
Develop emergency readiness of City staff and community members
through disaster training and exercise programs.
Maintain the City's Emergency Operations Center in a state of
readiness.
Maintain effective liaisons with local, state, and national emergency
management organizations.
Ensure inter-agency/multi-agency coordination and communication for
disaster planning and responses.
Number of annual community disaster training exercises:
Number of annual disaster training exercises for City staff:
Number of CERT training courses offered per year:
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
163
Public Safety Program Budgets
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CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
164
Non-Departmental Department Budget
Non-Departmental
The General Administration program represents
revenues and expenditures that are generated
as a result of being a governmental entity rather
than from departmental operations. Tax
Revenues, Intergovernmental Revenues,
Interest, and Rental Income are the primary
nonservice-based revenue sources for the City,
and account for approximately 80% of the City’s
Total General Fund Operating Revenues each
year. General Administration expenditures are
minimal in comparison, consisting primarily of
the UAL pension payoff, and transfers to Capital
Programs from the general fund.
Non-Departmental Department Programs Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
General Fund Programs
Program 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25 Est.
Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Non-Departmental 17,127,156 17,871,899 20,375,139 19,401,350 19,875,594 19,779,340
Federal Grants -45,186 0 0 0 0 0
Grants 0 0 8,500 0 8,500 8,500
Legal Services -257,490 -399,672 -641,512 -587,115 -587,115 -683,000
Non-Departmental 17,429,832 18,271,570 21,008,150 19,988,465 20,428,714 20,453,840
Facility Rentals -233,834 -138,869 -81,229 -180,730 -147,515 -221,057
Recreation -81,059 -87,264 -52,345 -59,709 -59,709 -59,666
Non-Departmental
Total 17,127,156 17,871,899 20,375,139 19,401,350 19,875,594 19,779,340
Non-Departmental Program Budgets
CITY OFSARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
165
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Non-Departmental Department Budget
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
166
Legal Services
Legal Services Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Legal Services 257,490 399,672 641,512 587,115 592,342 683,000
Revenue 0 0 0 0 0 0
440 - Charges for services 0 0 0 0 0 0
Expense 257,490 399,672 641,512 587,115 592,342 683,000
610 - Operating Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 0
650 - Professional
Services 257,490 399,672 641,512 587,115 592,342 683,000
Legal Services Total (257,490) (399,672) (641,512) (587,115) (592,342) (683,000)
The City of Saratoga contracts with the firm
Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger LLP (Shute Mihaly)
to provide City Attorney services, advice, and
representation on legal matters to ensure City
actions and activities are legally sound. Shute
Mihaly in turn, utilizes Wittwer & Parkins, LLP for
land use/development attorney services on an
as-needed basis. The City Attorney also
oversees the City’s use of Mouser Law Firm
legal services for employment law, and
occasionally other legal firms for specialized
services.
The City Attorney manages the City’s pursuit or
defense in litigation matters as directed by the
City Council, supervises litigation costs, and
provides the City with a monthly status report of
all outstanding litigation, case updates, and
potential lawsuits. In addition, the City Attorney:
reviews all proposed ordinances and resolutions
requiring City Council action to ensure proper
format and content; reviews staff reports for
reasoned and sound commentary; identifies
policy options and alternatives; and provides
direction, recommendations, and appropriate
summaries consistent with Council
requirements. Additional city attorney services
include review and recommendations on
legislative issues, recommendations on
environmental review requirements and
preparation of environmental review documents,
review of bid requests, vendor contract
documents, purchase and sale agreements,
code enforcement matters, and the preparation
and/or review of contractual agreements with
other agencies. Employment Law services
include policy development, human resources
oversight, and negotiation services as
needed. The City Attorney attends the bi-
monthly City Council meetings, and special City
Council sessions as needed.
Overall, Legal Services provides support to the
City Council’s Strategic Goals for a transparent
and ethical City government, in conformance
with and abiding by the rule of law. Key
services include:
• Provides sound legal advice for the City and
represents the City regarding litigation
matters.
• Attends City Council meetings to provide
legal guidance.
• Drafts and/or reviews staff reports,
resolutions, and proposed ordinances.
• Prepares and/or reviews contractual
agreements with other agencies.
• Reviews and make recommendations on
legislative issues.
• Reviews bid requests, vendor contract
documents, and purchase and sale
agreements.
• Provides legal advice on code enforcement
matters.
Non-Departmental Program Budgets
CITY OFSARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
167
• Provides legal advice on employment law
matters.
• Makes recommendations on environmental
review requirements and preparation of
environmental review documents.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
The legal program does not typically include
budgeted revenues; however, services
reimbursements may occur during the course of
the year if the City provides legal representation,
such as in development lawsuits.
2025-26 Work Plan Priorities
• Risk Management – Work with staff to
improve and implement Best Practices to
mitigate risk in City operations and provide
guidance in the administration of claims as
needed.
• City Codes and Ordinances – Research
and prepare ordinances as necessary to
implement City Council priorities. Work with
staff on the annual code update to reflect
changes in State law and lessons learned in
ordinance implementation.
• Community Development – Work with
Community Development Department staff
on reviews of complex projects.
• General Plan & Housing Element
Implementation – Provide a legal review of
General Plan Update and implementation
efforts to ensure language and changes are
compliant with legal requirements.
• Public Works – Work with Public Works
department staff on environmental review,
regulatory compliance, contracts, and real
property matters for major public works
projects such as Quito Road Bridges and the
Saratoga-to-the-Sea Trail.
• Code Enforcement – Work with Code
Enforcement staff to develop systems and
procedures to minimize the need for City
Attorney involvement in day-to-day code
enforcement proceedings. Advise the City in
connection with complex code enforcement
matters and continue to manage prosecution
of citations issued by the Sheriff’s office for
violations of the City Code.
Legal
Performance Objectives and Measures
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.
a.Number of staff reports and resolutions drafted or reviewed:38 66 50 51 60
b.Number of ordinances drafted or reviewed:13 6 5 7 8
2.
a.Number of agreements/contracts using standard forms reviewed:161 116 140 130 130
b.Number of agreements/contracts using non-standard forms
prepared or reviewed:
11 8 12 6 8
Activity and Workload Highlights
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26
Actuals Actuals Actuals Actuals Budget
1.27 24 23 24 24
2.4 4 10 3 5
Review staff reports, resolutions, and proposed ordinances to ensure
City is in compliance with legal requirements and applicable laws, and
performing in a transparent and ethical manner.
Ensure legal documents protect the City's interests and are in
compliance with Federal, State, and City requirements.
Number of City Council meetings or study sessions attended:
Number of multi-agency agreements prepared:
Non-Departmental Department Budget
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
168
Disaster Recovery
Federal Grants Program Net Revenue/ (Expenditure)
Category 2021-22
Actuals
2022-23
Actuals
2023-24
Actuals
2024-25
Budget
2024-25
Est. Act.
2025-26
Proposed
Federal Grants
Revenue -776 0 0 0 0
420 - Intergovernmental -776 0 0 0 0
Expense 44,410 0 0 0 0 0
500 - Salaries & Benefits 17,775 0 0 0 0 0
610 - Operating
Expenses
4,234 0 0 0 0
640 - Contract Services 22,401 0 0 0 0
Federal Grants Total 43,634 0 0 0 0 0
The City of Saratoga’s operating budget plans
for normal operations, using conservative
estimates for revenues, and expenditure
budgets that allow for minor
contingencies. When unusual weather patterns
or natural disasters occur that cause resources
to be expended at unexpected levels in
response, and those expenditures fall outside of
normal operating budget resources, staff will
bring the related expenditures to the Council
both for their awareness, and to approve budget
funding adjustment requests to address the
unexpected needs. These unplanned
expenditures are accounted for in the Disaster
Recovery program.
Under extraordinary circumstances, Federal,
State, and local governments may declare a
State of Emergency. When these emergency
declarations occur, Federal and State funding is
made available to assist impacted agencies with
the unexpected expenditures. The City may
then submit claims to request reimbursement,
per Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) or California’s Office of Emergency
Services (CalOES) guidelines. For
transparency, both the emergency claim
expenditures and emergency operations
reimbursement claim revenues will be
accounted for in this program.
In past years, this budget accounted for
emergency relief to public agencies for the
impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic proclaimed
disaster.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
None. City staff are working with FEMA and
CalOES to ascertain eligibility for reimbursement
from the 2023 Storm Emergencies. Once
eligibility and reimbursement are confirmed, City
staff will request an amendment to the 2025-26
budget.
Non-Departmental Program Budgets
CITY OFSARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
169
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Non-Departmental Department Budget
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
170
General Obligation Bond Debt Service Fund
2001 Saratoga Community Library General
Obligation Bond
More than two-thirds of the electors of the City
voting at a general municipal election held on
March 7, 2000, approved the issuance of $15
million of General Obligation Bonds to improve,
renovate, and expand the Saratoga Community
Library. The Series 2001 General Obligation
Bonds were subsequently issued by the City of
Saratoga pursuant to Chapter 4 of Division 4 of
Title 4 of the California Government Code, and a
resolution of the Saratoga City Council
authorizing the issuance of the Bonds.
Bonds constitute general obligations of the City,
and the vote to approve the bond authorized the
establishment of a property tax levy to fund debt
service payments. The property tax levy is
added to Saratoga property owner’s annual
property tax bill, collected by the County
Assessor, and subsequently remitted to the
City. The 2001 GO Bond’s principal and interest
on the bonds was established to be payable on
February 1 and August 1 of each year,
commencing February 1, 2002, and ending
August 1, 2031. With interest rates falling to
historic lows in the fall of 2010, Council
requested the 2001 GO Bonds be refunded.
2011 Saratoga Community Library General
Obligation Bond
The refunding was completed with the refunding
effective date held until the ten-year anniversary
date, August 1, 2011 to eliminate the premium
penalty. As with the 2001 GO Bonds, principal
and interest for the new 2011 GO Bonds are
payable on February 1 and August 1 of each
year, commencing February 1, 2012, and ending
August 1, 2031. The refund will save Saratoga
taxpayers approximately $2.7 million over twenty
years.
In 2011, as part of the refunding process, the
City obtained an updated credit rating. The City
of Saratoga was awarded AAA issuer credit
rating by Standard and Poor’s, one of the
nation’s top-ranked independent credit rating
agencies. Saratoga’s solid tax base and low
debt burden, high property values and personal
income levels, and the expectation of continued
strong financial operations by the City supported
this high rating and resulted in lower debt costs
and savings to the Saratoga
community. Subsequent reviews have
continued to award the City an AAA rating.
2025-26 Notable Budget Changes
None. The Bank of New York Mellon acts as
Saratoga’s fiscal agent to administer the debt
servicing of the bonds. To ensure compliance
with the IRS Code and US Treasury Obligations,
NBS Government Services provides services
related to arbitrage rebate calculations and
consulting services. NBS will also assist in
compliance with the annual disclosure
regulations of the SEC continuing disclosure
Rule 15c.2-12.
Non-Departmental Program Budgets
CITY OFSARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
171
August August February Fiscal Year Bond
Fiscal Interest Annual Interest Interest Annual Debt Principal
Year Rate Principal Payment Payment Interest Service Balance @ YE
- - $11,995,000
2011/12 2.00% - - 228,211 228,211 228,211 11,995,000
2012/13 2.00%455,000 208,518 203,968 412,485 867,485 11,540,000
2013/14 2.00%485,000 203,968 199,118 403,085 888,085 11,055,000
2014/15 2.00%495,000 199,118 194,168 393,285 888,285 10,560,000
2015/16 2.00%500,000 194,168 189,168 383,335 883,335 10,060,000
2016/17 3.00%475,000 189,168 182,043 371,210 846,210 9,585,000
2017/18 3.00%485,000 182,043 174,768 356,810 841,810 9,100,000
2018/19 4.00%500,000 174,768 164,768 339,535 839,535 8,600,000
2019/20 4.00%525,000 164,768 154,268 319,035 844,035 8,075,000
2020/21 4.00%545,000 154,268 143,368 297,635 842,635 7,530,000
2021/22 3.00%565,000 143,368 134,893 278,260 843,260 6,965,000
2022/23 4.00%580,000 134,893 123,293 258,185 838,185 6,385,000
2023/24 4.00%610,000 123,293 111,093 234,385 844,385 5,775,000
2024/25 4.00%630,000 111,093 98,493 209,585 839,585 5,145,000
2025/26 3.50%655,000 98,493 87,030 185,523 840,523 4,490,000
2026/27 3.50%685,000 87,030 75,043 162,073 847,073 3,805,000
2027/28 3.70%705,000 75,043 62,000 137,043 842,043 3,100,000
2028/29 4.00%730,000 62,000 47,400 109,400 839,400 2,370,000
2029/30 4.00%760,000 47,400 32,200 79,600 839,600 1,610,000
2030/31 4.00%790,000 32,200 16,400 48,600 838,600 820,000
2031/32 4.00%820,000 16,400 - 16,400 836,400 -
TOTALS 11,995,000 2,601,993 2,621,686 5,223,678 17,218,678
Total Bond Principal $11,995,000
Total Bond Interest 5,223,678
Total Cost of Bond $17,218,678
City of Saratoga
2011 Series General Obligation Bonds
Debt Schedule
Bond Refunding Date - August 1, 2011
Non-Departmental Department Budget
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
172
Arrowhead CFD Bond Debt Service
Arrowhead Cooperative Company, Inc. (ACCI) is
a private water company that was formed in
1951 to serve six homes in a neighborhood
located between Rolling Hills Road and Blue
Hills Lane along Prospect Road. Over the years,
the Arrowhead Water Cooperative grew to serve
a total of 39 homes, but the infrastructure
became outdated, making the water supply
tenuous and fire safety an ominous concern.
The homeowners sought to transition over to
San Jose Water Company to ensure a reliable
water supply, however before San Jose Water
Company would accept the 39 homes into their
system, they required ACCI to improve the
existing water infrastructure.
As the cost for the improvements grew to nearly
$4 million, the neighborhood petitioned the City
of Saratoga to help them issue a bond to finance
the improvements. The issuance of such a bond
required ACCI property owners to form a
Community Facility District (CFD) upon which a
special assessment would be levied to collect
the necessary funds to pay the Bond’s debt
service payments.
Subsequently, on December 21, 2016, the City
Council approved the formation of the
Arrowhead Community Facility District
(CFD). On May 2, 2017, the CFD’s 39
residential parcel owners unanimously approved
Measure L, which allowed for the assessment of
a special tax levy to finance a
bond. Concurrently, City staff began working
with a bond financing team to issue the CFD’s
Special Tax Assessment Bond, but construction
delays put the bond issuance on hold. When
construction was rescheduled for late 2018, the
bond issuance process began again, and was
finally issued on December 10, 2018, as a
private sale bond.
Fifteen of the 39 ACCI property owners chose to
pre-pay their share of the construction costs; the
remaining 24 property owners chose to
participate in the bond issuance. The Bond
Issuance totaled $2,498,848, which was
combined with the $1,500,000 contributed to the
funding account by the pre-paid property owners
for the total funded cost of the project. As of
7/1/24, a total of 18 property owners participated
in the bond issuance.
Bond terms are 30 years at 6.05% interest. This
interest rate was slightly higher than a negotiated
bond sale was expected to be but had the
advantage of locking in the interest rate during a
volatile rate timeframe, and the total bond
amount was reduced due to a lower reserve
requirement under the private sale. The bond’s
debt service payment schedule is at the end of
this section. These payment amounts may
change over time if bond holders choose to pay
off their share of the debt instead of following the
bond’s payment schedule.
This Debt Service program reflects the
accounting for the Bond’s Debt Service
functions, including tax assessment receipts, the
bond’s debt interest and principal payments,
earned interest, and bond administration service
fees. The full amount of the project funds from
both the bond sale and the contributed funds are
accounted for in the Arrowhead CFD Project
Agency Fund.
Non-Departmental Program Budgets
CITY OFSARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
173
September September March Fiscal Year Bond
Fiscal Interest Annual Interest Interest Annual Debt Principal
Year Rate Principal Payment Payment Interest Service Balance @ YE
Bond Issue Date: December 1, 2018 - -
2018/19 6.050%- - 33,176 33,176 33,176 - 2,498,848
2019/20 6.050%89,531 75,590 69,845 145,435 234,966 100,388 2,308,929
2020/21 6.050%31,090 69,845 53,332 123,177 154,267 514,797 1,763,042
2021/22 6.050%25,520 53,332 45,393 98,725 124,245 236,934 1,500,588
2022/23 6.050%23,374 45,393 44,686 90,079 113,453 1,477,214
2023/24 6.050%24,787 44,686 41,624 88,622 111,096 76,443 1,375,984
2024/25 6.050%26,287 41,624 40,828 82,452 108,739 - 1,349,697
2025/26 6.050%26,383 40,828 40,030 80,859 107,242 - 1,323,314
2026/27 6.050%27,979 40,030 39,184 79,214 107,193 - 1,295,335
2027/28 6.050%29,672 39,184 38,286 77,470 107,142 - 1,265,663
2028/29 6.050%31,468 38,286 37,334 75,621 107,089 - 1,234,195
2029/30 6.050%33,371 37,334 36,325 73,659 107,030 - 1,200,824
2030/31 6.050%35,390 36,325 35,254 71,579 106,969 - 1,165,434
2031/32 6.050%37,531 35,254 34,119 69,373 106,904 - 1,127,903
2032/33 6.050%39,802 34,119 32,915 67,034 106,836 - 1,088,101
2033/34 6.050%42,210 32,915 31,638 64,553 106,763 - 1,045,891
2034/35 6.050%44,763 31,638 30,284 61,922 106,685 - 1,001,128
2035/36 6.050%47,472 30,284 28,848 59,132 106,604 - 953,656
2036/37 6.050%50,344 28,848 27,325 56,173 106,517 - 903,312
2037/38 6.050%53,389 27,325 25,710 53,035 106,424 - 849,923
2038/39 6.050%56,620 25,710 23,997 49,708 106,328 - 793,303
2039/40 6.050%60,045 23,997 22,181 46,178 106,223 - 733,258
2040/41 6.050%63,678 22,181 20,255 42,436 106,114 - 669,580
2041/42 6.050%67,531 20,255 18,212 38,467 105,998 - 602,049
2042/43 6.050%71,616 18,212 16,046 34,258 105,874 - 530,433
2043/44 6.050%75,948 16,046 13,748 29,794 105,742 - 454,485
2044/45 6.050%80,543 13,748 11,312 25,060 105,603 - 373,942
2045/46 6.050%85,416 11,312 8,728 20,040 105,456 - 288,526
2046/47 6.050%90,584 8,728 5,988 14,716 105,300 - 197,942
2047/48 6.050%96,064 5,988 3,082 9,070 105,134 - 101,878
2048/49 6.050%101,878 3,082 - 3,082 104,960 - -
TOTALS 1,570,286 952,100 909,685 1,864,098 3,432,071 928,562
Total Bond Principal 2,498,848$
Total Bond Interest 1,864,098
Total Cost of Bond 4,362,946$
2,498,848$
City of Saratoga
2018 Arrowhead Community Facility District Bond
Debt Schedule
Less
Approx
Bond Debt
Non-Departmental Department Budget
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
174
Legal Debt Margin
City of Saratoga Legal Debt Margin
The California Government Code Section 43605
states:
A city shall not incur an indebtedness for
public improvements which exceeds in the
aggregate 15 percent of the assessed value of
all real and personal property of the city. Within
the meaning of this section, "indebtedness"
means bonded indebtedness of the city payable
from the proceeds of taxes levied upon taxable
property in the city.
This schedule calculates the City of Saratoga's
legal debt margin by determining the 15% debt
limit and comparing this limit to the City's
outstanding debt at the end of the fiscal year so
as to determine the difference between the two.
Only certain types of debt are subject to the legal
debt limit, most prominently General Obligation
Bond debt. Therefore, while this schedule
recognizes all types of long-term debt, the total
debt is reduced by that debt not subject to the
legal debt limit, as well as amounts held in
sinking funds for debt repayment.
The City's debt is comprised of one General
Obligation Bond and one Community Facilities
District Special Assessment Bond.
City of Saratoga
Legal Debt Margin Information
(in thousands)
2023-24 Assessed value $19,871,183
Add back: Exempt Real Property 313,706
Total Assessed Value 20,184,889
Debt Limit: 15% of Total Assessed Value 3,027,733
Amount of Debt Applicable to Limit
General obligation bonds 5,775
Net original issue premium 175
Less: Amount Available in debt service fund (1,013)
Total net debt applicable to limit 4,937
Legal debt margin $3,022,796
Source: 2023-24 City of Saratoga Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
Non-Departmental Program Budgets
CITY OFSARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
175
PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Capital Improvement Program Introduction
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
176
Introduction
The Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
endeavours to identify all funded capital
improvements planned for completion within the
next five years, with cost estimates based on
current year dollars. Project estimates are
updated each year based upon current design
specifications and bid prices. Equipment,
operation, and maintenance costs incurred as
an outcome of CIP projects are to be identified
and included in the operating budget. As a city
is comprised of diverse infrastructure, CIP
projects are categorized by infrastructure type:
streets; parks and trails, and facilities. The CIP
policy is available here.
The City of Saratoga’s fiscal year 2025-26 CIP
represents an ongoing process through which
the City identifies, prioritizes, and develops a
multi-year workplan for major capital
expenditures and their associated funding
sources, in the effort to improve and maintain the
City of Saratoga’s roadways, parks, facilities,
and other infrastructure.
Program Areas
The CIP is divided into five discrete program
areas as described below. Each program area’s
classifications are then grouped by sub-
classifications of projects the City is undertaking,
and the tracking of resources expended for these
purposes. The five programs are structured as
follows:
Streets
Projects which develop and maintain the City’s
roadway system to provide safe and efficient
traffic flows while minimizing traffic movement
and noise through residential neighborhoods;
street lighting for traffic safety at intersections
and throughout public streets; infrastructure
development and maintenance of street
surfaces, storm drain systems, curbs, gutters
and sidewalks; bridges and retaining walls; and
roadway landscaping to maintain the quality
streetscapes of the Saratoga community.
Gas Tax revenues, Road Maintenance and
Rehabilitation Account funds (SB1), Refuse
Impact Fees, and Santa Clara County Measure
B are dedicated funding sources for the Streets
Program, with total revenues of approximately
$3 million per year. Funding for projects may
also come from prior year General Fund savings,
from development projects requiring mitigation
of impacts, from partnerships with other
jurisdictions, or from federal, state, and local
grants as either part of statewide initiatives or
through grant applications based on specific City
projects.
Parks & Trails
Projects to develop and improve parks and sport
fields, park structures, trails, the city plaza park,
and various citywide tree planting and
maintenance. Dedicated funding for the Parks
Program includes a Park Development Fee
collected when a development project
subdivides property, and from Tree Fines
collected from un-permitted tree removals.
Funding may also come from prior year General
Fund savings, from grants and park bond funds,
and from donations. Park projects may, on
occasion, include community volunteer services
for minor construction and clean-up projects.
American Rescue Plan Act’s State and Local
Fiscal Recovery Fund (ARPA SLFRF)
In March 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act of
2021 (ARPA) was signed into law with $350
billion made available through the State and
Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) to assist
state and local governments with pandemic
related response and recovery efforts.
Saratoga’s ARPA/SLFRF funding allocation is
approximately $7.2 million, released directly to
Saratoga in June/July of 2021 and 2022. Funds
must be spent in accordance with the US
Department of Treasury guidance with
commitment of funds by December 31, 2024,
and expenditures by December 31, 2026.
Capital Improvement Program Introduction
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
177
Facilities
Projects for purchasing, constructing, or making
capital repairs to City buildings, structures, and
equipment. City buildings include the Civic
Center and Chamber/Theater Building, the
Senior/Community Center and auxiliary
structures, the Corporation Yard and structures,
the North Campus, the Historical Buildings
including the Saratoga Museum, the McWilliams
House, and the Book-Go-Round. Funding is not
specifically designated for this capital program;
allocations generally come from General Fund
prior year savings or grant funds applied to
qualified improvements such as Community
Development Block Grant funds for ADA
improvements.
Administrative & Technology Improvements
Projects which provide operational efficiencies
and improvements in the administration of City
services. Administrative & Technology
Improvement Projects typically include major
expenditures for new systems or system
upgrades, new technology equipment or
services, and one-time and/or multi-year
administrative projects such as converting a
decades-long accumulation of microfiches,
building plans, and legal documents; the
development of business and community
incentives; the implementation of risk
management programs, and for non-recurring
operational improvement projects. Revenue
for administrative projects may come from the
City’s Internal Service Replacement Funds, from
grants, or from prior year General Fund savings.
Capital Planning Guidelines and Process
The standard definition of a CIP project is for
construction, acquisition, rehabilitation, or non-
routine maintenance work that generally costs
$25,000 or more with a minimum useful life of 5
years at a fixed location. The City also includes
projects under $25,000 in the CIP if they qualify
as staged or ongoing improvement projects, or if
they are significant multi-year projects.
Additionally, non-infrastructure projects may be
included in the CIP under the Administrative &
Technology programs if they are one-time,
operational efficiency, technology, or multi-
faceted administrative projects.
Under direction from the City Manager, Public
Works takes the lead in the preparation of most
street and parks CIP projects and Facilities takes
the lead in most facility-related CIP projects.
Administrative & Technology CIP projects are
typically recommended by the City Manager,
Administrative Services, or Community
Development departments as they represent
non-infrastructure projects. The CIP Procedure
Process Policy establishes the guidelines to
move proposed projects through the proposal
preparation and capital project review process.
This includes a review by the Planning
Commission to ensure projects are consistent
with the City’s General Plan prior to Council’s
final budget review.
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
178
Streets Capital Improvement Program
STREET REPAIR AND RESURFACING PROJECTS PAGE
9111-003 Pavement Management Program (PMP) 181
ROADWAY SAFETY PROJECTS
9121-001 Annual Roadway Safety & Traffic Calming 183
9121-008 Safe Routes to School Implementation 184
9121-009 Citywide Bikeways and Sidewalk Masterplan 185
9121-010 Pedestrian Street Lights 186
9122-006 Prospect Road Improvements 187
9122-011 Saratoga Avenue at Herriman Traffic Signal Installation 189
SIDEWALK, CURBS & STORM DRAIN PROJECTS
9141-005
Annual Sidewalks, Curbs & Gutters, Storm Drains, Bridges Maintenance
and Repair 190
9141-009 Annual Corrugated Pipe Rehabilitation 192
9142-005 Saratoga Avenue Sidewalks 193
9142-019 Saratoga Village Crosswalk & Sidewalk 195
9142-020 Quito Road Sidewalk Improvement Design 196
9142-021 Saratoga/Sunnyvale Road Sidewalks 198
9142-035 Pierce Road Culverts 199
RIDGE AND RETAINING WALLS
9152-001 Fourth Street Bridge Widening 200
9152-002 Quito Road Bridges – Preliminary Engineering, ROW Engineering 202
9152-005 Bridge Rehabilitation Project Phase 1 204
9153-003 Annual Retaining Wall Maintenance & Repairs 205
9153-005 Mt. Eden Erosion Repair 206
9153-008 Hillside Stabilization 207
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
179
Program Area Descriptions
The Capital Improvement Program’s Street Improvements Program provides for a safe and functional
roadway and pedestrian street system. Projects within the Street Program are classified by their primary
scope of work into five project categories:
• Street Resurfacing, Repair & Maintenance Projects
• Roadway Safety Improvements
• Street Landscape & Beautification Improvements
• Sidewalks, Curbs & Storm Drain Improvements
• Bridge & Hillside Support Projects
Street Resurfacing, Repair & Maintenance Projects consist of projects that primarily repave and
improve roadway surfaces. Projects include resurfacing the neighborhood(s), collector, and arterial
streets on a priority basis. Funding is added to the ongoing street resurfacing project each year as
available. Individual Street Repair & Resurfacing projects may be established when grants are provided
for specifically identified sections of roadway.
Roadway Safety Improvements consist of projects that improve roadway safety factors. Roadway
safety improvement projects include small site-specific improvement items that include signs, striping,
and curbs as directed by the Traffic Safety Commission; ADA projects for accessibility enhancements,
such as curb ramps and audible signals; refuge lanes for traffic merging; railroad crossing improvements;
radar feedback signs; and larger safety projects, such as the bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements
made to Highway 9.
Street Landscape & Beautification Improvements consist of projects that improve the visual
component of streets. This includes median landscape improvements, city entrance signs, tree lighting,
sidewalk furniture, and accessories such as trash receptacles and news rack stands.
Sidewalk, Curbs, Gutters & Storm Drains consist of sidewalk improvement and repair projects; curb,
gutter, and storm drain improvements; and pedestrian safety improvement projects. These projects are
both general and specific, depending on funding sources.
Bridge & Hillside Support Projects consist of projects that repair, replace, or rehabilitate deficient
bridge structures or provide support for hillside roadways. Bridge structures fall under the guidance of
federal and state regulations, and are often funded by these regulatory agencies, such as Caltrans or the
Federal Highway Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program (HBBR). Hillside Support projects are
generally funded through transfers from the General Fund.
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
180
Funding Summary by Project
Project Category & Project Name
Budget
Est. Full
Year
Actual
Carryover
Approved
Additions Total Budget
Street Repair and Resurfacing Projects
9111-003 - Pavement Management Program (PMP)6,648,879 4,362,879 2,286,000 3,100,000 5,386,000
Streets Capital Improvement Program Total 6,648,879 4,362,879 2,286,000 3,100,000 5,386,000
Roadway Safety Projects
9121-001 - Annual Roadway Safety & Traffic Calming 150,850 122,000 28,850 150,000 178,850
9121-007 - Traffic Signal Controller Upgrades 17,504 17,504 - CLOSED -
9121-008 - Safe Routes to School Implementation1 295,055 215,500 79,555 760,000 839,555
9121-009 - Citywide Bikeways and Sidewalk 57,395 - 57,395 - 57,395
9121-010 - Pedestrian Street Lights 200,000 10,000 190,000 - 190,000
9122-006 - Prospect Road Improvements 1,404,499 3,254 1,401,245 - 1,401,245
9xxx-xxx - Saratoga Avenue At Herriman Traffic - - - 850,000 850,000
Roadway Safety Projects Total 2,125,303 368,258 1,757,045 1,760,000 3,517,045
Street Landscape & Beautification Projects
9132-006 - Village Clock/Saratoga Village
Beautification 2,560 2,560 - CLOSED -
Street Landscape & Beautification Projects Total 2,560 2,560 - - -
Sidewalk, Curbs & Storm Drain Projects
9141-005 - Annual Sidewalks, Curbs & Gutters,
Storm Drains, Bridge Maintenance and Repair 304,247 200,000 104,247 250,000 354,247
9141-009 - Annual Corrugated Pipe Rehabilitation 165,005 - 165,005 - 165,005
9142-005 - Saratoga Avenue Sidewalks 67,177 10,800 56,377 25,000 81,377
9142-019 - Saratoga Village Crosswalk & Sidewalk 360,472 - 360,472 - 360,472
9142-020,023, 030 - Quito Road Sidewalk Imp Design 525,979 - 525,979 - 525,979
9142-021 - Saratoga/Sunnyvale Road Sidewalks 92,158 - 92,158 - 92,158
9142-035 - Pierce Road Culvert Repair 255,200 - 255,200 500,000 755,200
Sidewalk, Curbs & Storm Drain Projects Total 1,770,238 210,800 1,559,438 775,000 2,334,438
Bridge and Retaining Walls
9152-001 - Fourth Street Bridge Widening 547,846 - 547,846 - 547,846
9152-002, 004 - Quito Road Bridges - Preliminary
Engineering, ROW Engineering 166,230 1,139 165,091 - 165,091
9152-005 - Bridge Rehabilitation Project Phase 1 700,000 - 700,000 - 700,000
9153-003 - Annual Retaining Wall Maintenance & 499,401 50,000 449,401 200,000 649,401
9153-005 - Mt. Eden Erosion Repair 32,776 15,000 17,776 75,000 92,776
9153-008 - Hillside Stabilization 250,000 - 250,000 500,000 750,000
Sidewalk, Curbs & Storm Drain Projects Total 2,196,253 66,139 2,130,114 775,000 2,905,114
Total 12,743,233 5,010,636 7,732,597 6,410,000 14,142,597
1 Includes Fund 411 & 434
2024-25 2025-26
Expenditures
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
181
Pavement Management Program (PMP)
Project No. 9111-003
Project Manager – Emma Burkhalter, Associate Civil Engineer
The City has a comprehensive annual Pavement
Management Program (PMP) that includes road
resurfacing and maintenance to keep the City's
single largest piece of infrastructure in good
condition. The PMP combines regular maintenance
of roadways to prevent road conditions from rapidly
deteriorating and significant repairs for streets with
the highest need. Resurfacing City streets regularly
extends the lifetime of the roadways and minimizes
the need for larger and more costly projects in the
future. Keeping streets in good condition also
reduces liability risks and staff time required for
minor repair work.
An engineering consultant assesses City roads
using the Paving Condition Index (PCI) every three
years. PCI measures average road conditions on a scale of 0
to 100, which, when combined, then provides an overall score
of City roads. A zero (0) PCI indicates that a road has failed,
and a PCI of 100 indicates that a road is in excellent condition.
The following PCI brackets communicate the relative
significance of a PCI score in ranges:
In the most recent assessment in 2022, the City’s overall PCI was calculated to be 69.
The annual PMP project scope identifies streets based on several factors, including PCI, maintenance
recommendations, and budgetary constraints. This information, combined with the City Engineer's
observations and residents' input, determines which streets to include in the annual PMP.
According to the City’s 2022-23 assessment, an annual PMP project of $4.4 million would maintain the
measured PCI of 69, and a project of $8 million increases the PCI by 5 points over 5 years. Saratoga
does not have a structural funding source to fill the gap of $2.6 to $4.4 million necessary to maintain or
improve the current PCI.
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2016-17
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Excellent Very good Good Poor Very Poor
90 to 100 70 to 89 50 to 69 25 to 49 0 to 24
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
182
Pavement Management Program (PMP) (continued)
Project No. 9111-003
Each year, approximately $200,000 is used for improvements such as signage installations, engineering
studies, roadway stripping, materials purchases, and other miscellaneous repairs within the City rights-
of-way.
In addition, up to 20% of the resurfacing cost of a street can be for curb and gutter repairs which are
necessary to improve drainage and longevity of the road surface.
Funding Source: 2025-26 revenue dedicated to the PMP totals an estimated $3.1 million, with 55
percent from the State and 30 percent from the County. Only 15 percent of the structural revenue for the
PMP originates from a City source, the refuse impact fee.
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget
Est. Total
Budget
411 CIP Street 3,438,580 3,438,580 0 1,400,000 1,400,000
481 Gas Tax 3,210,299 3,210,299 0 1,700,000 1,700,000
Total 6,648,879 6,648,879 0 3,100,000 3,100,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement X
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
183
Annual Roadway Safety & Traffic Calming
Project No. 9121-001
Project Manager – Emma Burkhalter, Associate Civil Engineer
In conjunction with the Traffic Safety Commission (TSC),
this project funds safety and traffic calming improvements.
The Traffic Safety Commission (TSC) and staff meet on a
bi-monthly basis to review and assess traffic safety matters
throughout the City. As part of this review, the TSC
periodically recommends improvements to enhance safety
and/or calm traffic.
Most improvements are small and fall within the scope of
the operating budget. Occasionally, more costly
remediation is warranted, and Roadway Safety and Traffic
Calming funds are used. Examples include speed humps,
radar signs, medians, bulb-outs, and enhanced crosswalks.
Additionally, the TSC reviews the Unfunded CIP traffic
projects each year and prioritizes according to safety
and proximity to schools.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget:
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 150,850 122,000 28,850 150,000 178,850
Total 150,850 122,000 28,850 150,000 178,850
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State Mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2008
Approved/funded 2020-21
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
184
Safe Routes to School Implementation
Project No. 9121-008
Project Manager - Mainini Cabute, Environmental Programs Manager
This project implements the Safe Routes to School
(SRTS) Masterplan and the SRTS Need
Assessment CIP. Improves pedestrian and
student safety around schools.
In July 2023, the City received a Community
Project Funding Grant from Congress member
Anna Eshoo’s office of $500,000 towards this
project. The grant award requires matching funds
in the amount of $125,000. The cost of developing
design plans for phase 0 and phase 1 totals
$173,000. In FY2025-26 Staff will prioritize improvements at key intersections near schools including
installations of Flashing Beacons and high visibility crosswalks.
Visit https://www.saratoga.ca.us/509/Safe-Routes-to-School for more information on the SRTS
Masterplan.
Funding Source: General Fund and Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 136,300 56,745 79,555 260,000 339,555
414 CIP Admin & Tech 158,755 158,755 0 0 0
434 Street CIP Grant 500,000 500,000
Total 295,055 215,500 79,555 760,000 839,555
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety x Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate x
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2022-23
Design/Construction 2022-23
Completion 2026-27
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
185
Citywide Bikeways and Sidewalk Masterplan
Project No.431/411.9121-009
Project Manager – Mainini Cabute,
Environmental Programs Manager
This project will identify and prioritize locations
for new bikeways and sidewalks and
opportunities for gap closures Citywide.
Funding Source: OBAG grant $443,000 and
required Local Match of $57,000
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 57,395 0 57,395 0 57,395
431 Street CIP Grant 443,000 0 443,000 0 443,000
Total 500,395 0 500,395 0 500,395
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety × Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure ×
Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source ×
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability × Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed July 2022
Approved/funded July 2023
Design/Construction 2023-24
Completion 2025-26
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
186
Pedestrian Streetlights
Project No. 9121-010
Project Manager – Emma Burkhalter,
Associate Civil Engineer
This project would fund the installation of
streetlights at crosswalks identified by the
Traffic Safety Commission. The crosswalk
locations include: Saratoga Avenue at
Crestbrook Drive, Fruitvale Avenue at
Douglass Lane, Fruitvale Avenue at Farwell
Avenue, Fruitvale Avenue at Three Oaks
Way, Cox Avenue at Glen Brae Drive, Cox
Avenue at Sea Gull Way, and Cox Avenue at
Cumberland Drive and Cox Avenue at
DeHavilland Drive.
Funding Source: General fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 200,000 10,000 190,000 0 190,000
Total 200,000 10,000 190,000 0 190,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2024
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2025-26
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
187
Prospect Road Improvements
Project No. 9122-006
Project Manager - Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
This project will improve the Prospect Avenue
corridor through the addition of roadway medians
and a variety of pedestrian and bicycle
improvements. Project work will occur along a 1.9-
mile section of Prospect Road between Saratoga-
Sunnyvale Road and Lawrence Expressway.
Phase 1: This phase was completed in July 2019,
which installed roadway medians, sidewalks,
bicycle loops, and accessible ramps to improve
the safety of Prospect Road in Saratoga. This
phase physically reduced the width of the road,
channeling vehicles into defined turn lanes,
reducing the threat of vehicles crossing the center
lane, and creating safer pedestrian
crossings. Improvements to existing pedestrian,
bicycle and VTA bus stop facilities, will enhance
pedestrian accessibility and provide a safe and
convenient walking and bicycling experience.
Phase 2: This phase consists of improvements such
as new irrigation and landscaping to 3 existing medians on Prospect Rd. between Titus Ave. and English
Dr. that had not been worked on during the Phase 1 contract. On Saratoga Ave. & Cox Ave. signalized
intersection improvements will improve safety and the Level of Service. This will include installing new
traffic signal light poles, adding a second westbound left turn lane from Cox Ave. to southbound Saratoga
Ave. which will require modification to the existing eastbound Cox Ave. number one lane from a combo
through and left turn lane to an only left turn lane. The improvements will remove the pedestrian island
on the south/west corner and install a bulb-out extension concrete corner. Also, at all the corners, the
improvements will include new ADA ramps.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 306,254 3,254 303,000 0 303,000
431 Street CIP Grant 1,049,967 0 1,049,967 0 1,049,967
481 Gas Tax 48,278 0 48,278 0 48,278
Total 1,404,499 3,254 1,401,245 0 1,401,245
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2013-14
Construction 2023-24
Completion 2026-27
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
188
Prospect Road Improvements (continued)
Project No. 9122-006
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
189
SARATOGA AVENUE AT HERRIMAN TRAFFIC SIGNAL INSTALLATION
Project Name Saratoga Avenue at Herriman Traffic
Signal Installation
Project Number
Department Public Works Project Manager John Cherbone
Description This project would install a three-way traffic signal at the intersection of Saratoga and Herriman
Avenues.
Location The project is located at the intersection of Saratoga Avenue and Herriman Avenue.
Priority Factors This project applies to the Health and Safety Issues and Business or Community Support Priority
Factors.
Project
Background
The Traffic Safety Commission (TSC) recommended installation of a traffic light at the intersection
of Saratoga Avenue and Herriman Avenue. The TSC made their recommendation on the basis that
a traffic signal at this location would allow vehicles a smoother transition onto Saratoga Avenue
while alleviating traffic congestion on Herriman Avenue, especially during Saratoga High School’s
peak morning and afternoon commuting periods.
Traffic queues on westbound Herriman, due to vehicles attempting a left turn onto Saratoga Avenue,
consistently spill back to the bridge and beyond. Because of this backup, drivers seek alternative
routes through surrounding neighborhood streets to bypass this intersection. Data showed vehicles
traveling from Herriman Avenue to Beaumont, then to Glen Brae heading either to Cox Avenue or
Scotland Drive to access Saratoga Avenue via the signal at that intersection. Installing a traffic signal
at Saratoga Avenue and Herriman Avenue would allow for better traffic flow at this intersection and
reduce the impact of through traffic on the surrounding residential streets.
This project was added to the Unfunded Capital Improvement Projects list as part of the Fiscal Year
2017/18 budget.
Estimated Cost $850,000
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
190
Annual Sidewalks, Curbs & Gutters, Storm drains,
Bridges Maintenance and Repair
Project No. 9141-005
Project Manager - Rick Torres, Public Works Manager
This project is one of the capital projects that the City council
has designated as a priority for capital funding, as it helps
preserve and maintain critical City infrastructure on an
ongoing basis.
Sidewalks: There are approximately 17 linear miles of
sidewalk in Saratoga. Sidewalk repairs ensure that the City’s
sidewalks are maintained in good condition, minimizing
tripping hazards, reducing liability risk, and preventing larger
and more costly improvement projects in the future.
Approximately 35,000 square feet of sidewalk is repaired each year.
Curbs and Gutters: Ongoing repairs to curbs and gutters prevent flooding through improved water
runoff. Additionally, well maintained curbs and gutters improve
pedestrian and bicycle safety by reducing tripping hazards.
Damage to curbs and gutters is most frequently caused by tree
roots or impact from a heavy vehicle.
Storm drains: Storm drains are inspected to identify failures, or
potential failures. Sections of storm drains that have failed, which often result in flooding, are either
replaced or repaired.
Bridges: Each year Caltrans inspects all bridges in the state, including locally owned bridges, provides
repair recommendations, determines the safe load capacity of all bridges, and assists in specifications
and estimates for bridge maintenance projects.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 304,247 200,000 104,247 250,000 354,247
Total 304,247 200,000 104,247 250,000 354,247
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2016-17
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
191
Annual Sidewalks, Curbs & Gutters, Storm drains,
Bridges Maintenance and Repair (continued)
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
192
Corrugated Metal Pipe Rehabilitation
Project No. 9141-009
Project Manager - Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
This Project will fund the ongoing rehabilitation of existing
deteriorating corrugated metal pipe (CMP) that is used for the
storm drain system throughout the City. The aging CMP, once
it is deteriorated and compromised, will cause an underground
cavity which can collapse and cause underground soil erosion
that results in sinkhole incidents.
In FY 2023-24, CMP rehabiliations will include the culvert at
Pirece Road and Pike Road that failed in the January 2023
Storms and the culvert at the intersection of Pierce Road and
Palomino Way.
The rehabilitation of the culvert at Pierce Road and Pike Road
is currently pending review for FEMA funding. If it gets
approved, then the City funding will be available for
additional CMP rehabilitation projects as prioritized by City
Staff.
The City Storm Drain Master Plan, which is currently under
development by Sandis Engineering, calls out future repair
work to CMPs. This will require expenditures in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 165,005 0 165,005 0 165,005
Total 165,005 0 165,005 0 165,005
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement X
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2023-24
Approved/funded 2023-24
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
193
Saratoga Avenue Sidewalks
Project No. 9142-005
Project Manager – Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
Since 1992, the City has been adding new sections of
sidewalk along Saratoga Avenue, using Transit Development
Act (TDA) funds to create a continuous sidewalk between the
Village and Quito Road. The City generally allows these
funds to accumulate over several years and identifies the
pathway sections to be completed along Saratoga Avenue.
Sidewalks provide a safe path for pedestrians away from the
roadway. The sidewalk also allows residents in wheelchairs
or other wheeled devices to travel in the City. Furthermore,
extension of the City’s sidewalk system increases the City’s
walkability and adds to the recreational opportunities
available to residents.
This project has been Ongoing since 1992 and will continue
until all sidewalk gaps are closed. To date, this CIP has
completed Pedestrian Safety Improvements along Saratoga
Ave at the following locations:
• Reconstruction of deteriorating existing asphalt
concrete pathway between Shadow Oaks and Heritage Oak
• Crestbrook Drive bulb-out ramp/crosswalk improvement
• Herriman Avenue bulb-out ramp/crosswalk improvement
• La Paloma Avenue intersections bulb-out ramp/crosswalk improvement
• Bus Stop locations near the intersection of Highway 9
• Sidewalk and ADA ramps at the frontage of the Old Post Office to Park Place
• Handicap ramp between Juniper Lane and Douglass Ln (just south of Douglass Ln on the
southbound direction)
• Upgrade deteriorating handicap ramps along Saratoga Ave between Lutheria Way to Scotland
Dr.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
431 Street CIP Grant 67,177 10,800 56,377 25,000 81,377
Total 67,177 10,800 56,377 25,000 81,377
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 1992
Approved/funded 2008-09
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
194
Saratoga Avenue Sidewalks (continued)
Project No. 9142-005
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
195
Saratoga Village Crosswalk & Sidewalk
Rehabilitation
Project No. 9142-019
Project Manager - Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
This project is located on Big Basin Way between 5th
Street and 6th Street. The Village, Saratoga’s historical
downtown, offers shops, restaurants, salons, and office
space. The City has been making a series of
improvements to the Village to make it a more walkable
destination, including installation of pedestrian bulb-
outs and enhanced crosswalks to make pedestrians
more visible, as well as installation of benches, bike
racks, aesthetic improvements, and a renovation of
Blaney Plaza to make the Village a more desirable place
to gather.
This project will improve the crosswalks at Big Basin
Way and 5th Street, as well as the crosswalk in front of
Rose’s Market. These improvements will include
installation bulb-outs, enhanced crosswalks, decorative
landscaping, and benches. This project has been delayed
due to Caltrans scheduling.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 26,932 0 26,932 0 26,932
431 Street CIP Grant 333,540 0 333,540 0 333,540
Total 360,472 0 360,472 0 360,472
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2020-21
Construction 2024-25
Completion 2025-26
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
196
Quito Road Sidewalk Improvements
Project No. 9142-020
Project Manager - Macedonio Nunez, Engineering
Services Manager
Quito Road travels from Lawrence Expressway to
Highway 9. The road serves as a connection to
several local schools in Saratoga and nearby cities.
Currently, there are some sections of sidewalk along
the east side of Quito. However, the street lacks a
continuous stretch of sidewalk. The Traffic Safety
Commission (TSC) received numerous complaints
from residents who felt unsafe walking along Quito
Road. Subsequently, the TSC assessed Quito
Road and recommended filling sidewalk gaps.
The project includes the design and construction of new segments of sidewalk on Quito Road and
reconstruction of existing facilities to improve pedestrian safety
and access in the area. This encompasses costs associated
with initial planning, topographical survey and construction for
each section being improved.
The design work for the stretch of Quito Road from State Route
85 to Allendale Avenue is complete. In addition, the design and
construction of upgrades to existing walkways and fill-in gaps
on the Southbound side of Quito Road, from Allendale Avenue to Marshall Lane has been completed
Future scope includes;
• The sidewalk gap closure and handicap ramp installation along the northbound side from Pollard
Road to Allendale Avenue
• Sidewalk improvements along both northbound and southbound sides of the road from Allendale
Avenue to Highway 85. The design and construction of sidewalk gap closure and handicap ramp
installation on the southbound direction between (City limits at the north) Paseo Cerro to Cox Ave.
Funding Source: General Fund
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2021-22
Design 2022-24 &
Construction 2025-26
Completion 2027-28
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
197
Quito Road Sidewalk Improvements (continued)
Project Nos. 9142-020, 9142-023, 9142-030,
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget
Est. Total
Budget
411 CIP Street 525,979 0 525,979 0 525,979
Total 525,979 0 525,979 0 525,979
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Md-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
198
Saratoga - Sunnyvale Road Sidewalks
Project No. 9142-021
Project Manager - Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
In April 2017, the City Council voted to allow a homeowner
to purchase a 19-foot wide portion of Saratoga-Sunnyvale
Road that lies along the property’s boundary, which the City
was not using for roadway purposes, for $92,183. The
proceeds from the sale were assigned to be used for
pedestrian improvements along Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road.
As part of the 2020-21 Capital Improvement Program, the
City Council adopted the staff recommendation that the
funds be used to design a walkway on Saratoga-Sunnyvale
Road from Reid Lane to Big Basin Way.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 92,158 0 92,158 0 92,158
Total 92,158 0 92,158 0 92,158
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2017
Approved/funded 2019-20
Design/Construction 2023-24
Completion 2026-27
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
199
Pierce Road Culvert Repairs
Project No. 9142-035
Project Manager – Macedonio Nunez, Engineer Services Manager
This project will replace a culvert at Pirce Road that failed
during the January 2023 storms. The failed culvert caused
severe erosion to the roadway embankment. Emergency
roadway repairs prevented complete failure of the
roadway at the time.
Funding Source: General fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 255,200 0 255,200 500,000 755,200
Total 255,200 0 255,200 500,000 755,200
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability X Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2024
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2025-26
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
200
Fourth Street Bridge Widening
Project No. 9152-001
Project Manager – Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
The 4th Street Bridge was constructed in 1939 and crosses
Saratoga Creek near the entrance to Wildwood Park. This
project will widen the bridge to accommodate a sidewalk
for pedestrian traffic, as well as make structural
improvements to bring the bridge in compliance with
current standards. A California Department of
Transportation review of Saratoga bridges in 2004 listed
the 4th Street Bridge as being in “generally good condition.”
There are 20 bridges located in the City with 9 of these
bridges passing over Saratoga Creek. This project will be
completed in three phases;
• Phase 1: Preliminary engineering and
environmental, right-of-way acquisition, and
construction with a total estimated cost of $1.41
million. The Preliminary Engineering and
Environmental phase will include survey work,
constraint analysis, environmental review and
design with an estimated cost of $455,000.
• Phase 2: The Right-of-way acquisition phase will
include the acquisition or obtaining rights to access
property needed to widen the bridge, with an
estimated cost of $10,000.
• Phase 3: The construction phase will include work on widening the bridge with an estimated cost
of $945,000.
The project has sufficient funding for the preliminary engineering, environmental, and right-of-way
acquisition. Additional funding will be needed to complete the construction phase of this project.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 134,331 0 134,331 0 134,331
431 Street CIP Grant 413,515 0 413,515 0 413,515
Total 547,846 0 547,846 0 547,846
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2008-09
Design/Construction 2023- to 2025
Completion 2026-27
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
201
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
Fourth Street Bridge Widening (continued)
Project No. 9152-001
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement X
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
202
Quito Road Bridges
Project Nos. 9152-002, 9152-004
Project Manager - Macedonio Nunez, Engineering Services Manager
Periodically, the California Department of Transportation
(Caltrans) conducts assessments of bridges in Saratoga.
Caltrans rated the two bridges on Quito Road between
Sobey Road and Vessing Road as needing replacement.
Additionally, the bridges are not wide enough to meet
current CalTrans standards for roadway size. This project
will rebuild the bridges, bringing the width of the Quito
Road bridges in compliance with State roadway
standards, which will ultimately increase safety for people
using Quito Road.
Both bridges pass over San Tomas Creek, which flows
through Saratoga, Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno,
San Jose, and Santa Clara. As these two bridges fall along the
city limit lines of Saratoga and Los Gatos and along the San
Tomas Creek, Los Gatos, Saratoga, and the Santa Clara Valley
Water District all share in the boundaries and responsibilities.
As Saratoga holds the primary share of allocated responsibility,
the City agreed to manage this bridge replacement project. A
cooperative agreement between the three agencies has been
executed with Saratoga named as the lead agency.
• Preliminary Engineering Phase (Project No. 9152-002): Preliminary design work for the bridge
replacement was completed as part of this phase. Staff anticipates updates to the design will be
required prior to start of construction in order to bring the designs up to current Caltrans standards.
• Right of Way Acquisition, Environmental Review and Construction Phase (Project no. 9152-004):
Replacement and widening of the two bridges requires the acquisition of 4,532 square feet of
easements from three privately owned parcels adjoining the existing right of way. This Phase
funds the right-of-way acquisition needed to build the bridges, Envornmental Review and
reconstruction of the 2 bridges.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant Funds
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2008-09
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2027-28
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
203
Quito Road Bridges (continued)
Project Nos. 9152-002, 9152-004
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 131,139 1,139 130,000 0 130,000
431 Street CIP Grant 28,006 0 28,006 0 28,006
481 Gas Tax 7,085 0 7,085 0 7,085
Total 166,230 1,139 165,091 0 165,091
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
204
Bridge Rehabilitation Project
Project Nos. 9152-005
Project Manager - Poh Yee, Civil Engineer
Caltrans issues annual bridge inspection reports to the City
for bridges within the City’s jurisdiction, Recent reports have
identified deficiencies in 6 City bridges the require repair
work. This project will address those deficiencies by repairing
bridge abutments, scouring, deck rehabilitation and railings.
If not completed, bridges will continue to deteriorate and the
costs to make the repairs will increase substantially. The
project requires review and permits from Santa Clara Valley
Water District, Regional Water Control Board, Fish & Wildlife,
and Army Corps of Engineers.
• Phase 1: This phase mitigates deficiencies at 3 of 6
bridge locations called out in the Caltrans inspection
reports.
• Phase 2: This phase mitigates deficiencies at the remaining
3 of 6 bridge locations called out in the Caltrans inspection
reports which were not addressed in Phase 1.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 700,000 0 700,000 0 700,000
Total 700,000 0 700,000 0 700,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2023-24
Approved/funded 2023-24
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2026-27
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
205
Annual Retaining Wall Maintenance & Repairs
Project No. 9153-003
The City is responsible for retaining walls throughout the City.
These retaining walls help prevent soil erosion, provide
stability for hillsides, and prevent surface runoff from
obstructing roadways. Winter storms caused damage to
retaining walls in various locations in the City. Rather than
funding projects individually, the City Council created the
Annual Retaining Wall Maintenance & Repairs capital project
to maintain existing retaining walls, monitoring them for signs
of failure, and make repairs as needed. This project is one of
several capital projects identified as a priority by the City
Council and receives $200,000 each year, depending on
funding availability.
Retaining walls with active failures on Pierce Road, Mount
Eden Road, Palomino Way, Continental Circle, Bohlman and
Prospect Road and Saratoga Heights will be monitored
and prioritized.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Full Year
Actual Carryover Proposed
Budget Total Budget
411 CIP Street 499,401 50,000 449,401 200,000 649,401
Total 499,401 50,000 449,401 200,000 649,401
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2016-17
Approved/funded 2017-18
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
206
Mt. Eden Erosion Repair
Project No. 9153-005
Project Manager - Poh Yee, Civil Engineer
This project stabilized the portion of the Mt. Eden Rd
shoulder where it had been eroded by Calabazas Creek.
An external consultant evaluated the erosion and prepared
a design to stabilize the roadway. The construction
required the City to obtain State permits, as it takes place
along the edge of the creek. Construction began in 2021
and was completed in 2021-22. State permit requirements
for 5-year follow-up monitoring will keep the project open
through 2028-29.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 32,776 15,000 17,776 75,000 92,776
Total 32,776 15,000 17,776 75,000 92,776
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability X Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2019-20
Design/Construction 2020-21 &
2021-22
Completion 2028-29
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
207
Hillside Stabilization Project
Project No. 9153-008
Project Manager – John Cherbone, Public Works Manager
Several areas of potential landslides in the City have been
identified and are being monitored by City Staff and the City
Geologist. These areas include sections of Bohlman Road,
Diamond Oaks Way, Old Oak Way, Palomino Way, Sarahills
Drive, Chiquita Way, and multiple sections on Pierce Road
and Mt. Eden Road.
The cost to repair and stabilize the locations is estimated to
be over $1 million for each site.
This project will provide annual funding that will be rolled
over to accumulate sufficient budgets to complete the repair
and stabilization of one section at a time as prioritized by
Staff.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget:
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
411 CIP Street 250,000 0 250,000 500,000 750,000
Total 250,000 0 250,000 500,000 750,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2024
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Streets Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Proposed Budget
208
PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
209
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITYWIDE PROJECTS PAGE
9211-001 Annual Parks, Trails, Grounds, & Medians Infrastructure 212
9211-002 Citywide Tree Replanting Program 213
9211-011 Annual Mechanical Weed Abatement 214
9211-012 Residential Tree Planting Program 215
PARK PROJECTS
9222-004 Hakone Gardens Infrastructure Improvements 216
9222-008 Hakone Gardens Pond Renovation – Phase I 217
9233-001 Bellgrove Park Playground Replacement 218
9251-001 Congress Springs Park Concrete Repairs 219
9252-004 El Quito Park Community Garden 220
9224-002 Historical Museum Landscaping 221
9226-006 Quarry Park Parking Expansion 222
TRAILS & OPEN SPACE PROJECTS
9226-005 Quarry Park Mtc Building Utility Project 223
9274-002 Blue Hills Elementary Pedestrian Crossing at Union Pacific Railroad
(UPRR)
224
9277-004 Saratoga Village to Quarry Park Walkway 226
9281-005 Park and Trail Fire Mitigation 228
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
210
Program Area Descriptions
The Parks & Trails Program provides for capital improvements to the City of Saratoga’s
neighborhood and city parks and plaza, sports fields, bike and pedestrian trails, and open space
areas throughout the city. Projects within the Parks & Trails Program are classified as
General/Citywide Park Improvements, City Park Projects, Neighborhood Park Projects, Sport
Park Projects, or Trail and Open Space Projects. Within the project classification, the projects
are sub-classified by site. This structure allows for the tracking of resources by individual park,
trail, or open space area, and by specific project work completed.
General Repairs & Maintenance
General and citywide park and trail repair projects provide minor repairs that are not specified
bodies of work to an individual site, and for citywide projects that apply to multiple sites. Projects
could include fence repairs or improvements, tree removals, park furniture and equipment, lighting
or irrigation enhancements, structure repairs, or various minor projects that arise to improve the
infrastructure. This category also includes the Citywide Tree Replanting project which is primarily
funded through tree fines and used for tree planting and irrigation throughout the City. A third
subcategory is funding projects for open space contributions.
City Parks
Projects which improve the larger parks which draw the entire community. These include Quarry
Park, Wildwood Park, Hakone Gardens, Heritage Orchard Park, Blaney Plaza, and the Village
Historical Park. City Parks generally have features and attractions in addition to playground
equipment, picnic areas, and ball courts.
Neighborhood Parks
Projects for the City’s smaller parks located within neighborhoods. These include Azule Park,
Beauchamps Park, Bellgrove Park, Brookglen Park, Foothill Park, Gardiner Park, Kevin Moran
Park, and Ravenswood Park.
Sport Parks & Facilities Projects
Improvement projects at the City’s sport field type parks. These sites include Congress Springs
Park, El Quito Park, and West Valley Soccer Fields.
Trails & Open Space Projects
Joe’s Trail at Saratoga De Anza, Saratoga Village to Quarry Park Walkway and Saratoga-to-the-
Sea Trail.
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
211
Funding Summary by Project
Project Category & Project Name
Budget
Est. Full
Year
Actual
Carryover Approved
Additions Total Budget
Citywide Park & Trail Projects
9211-001 - Annual Parks, Trails, Grounds, & Medians 374,829 200,829 174,000 250,000 424,000
9211-002 - Citywide Tree Replanting Program 7,030 - 7,030 - 7,030
9211-011 - Annual Mechanical Weed Abatement 125,000 25,000 100,000 - 100,000
9211-012 - Residential Tree Planting Program 55,000 55,000 - 55,000 55,000
Citywide Park &Trail Projects Total 561,859 280,829 281,030 305,000 586,030
Park Projects
9222-004 - Hakone Gardens Infrastructure 85,228 65,500 19,728 25,000 44,728
9222-008 - Hakone Gardens Pond Renovation-Phase 300,000 - 300,000 - 300,000
9233-001 - Bellgrove Park Playground Replacement 150,000 - 150,000 50,000 200,000
9251-001 - Congress Springs Park Concrete Repairs 85,000 55,820 29,180 35,000 64,180
9252-003 - El Quito Park Pickleball Courts 110,387 110,387 - CLOSED -
9252-004 - El Quito Park Community Garden 332,000 100,000 232,000 - 232,000
9xxx-xxx - Historical Museum Landscaping 100,000
9xxx-xxx - Quarry Park Parking Expansion 75,000
Park Projects Total 1,062,615 331,707 730,908 285,000 840,908
Trail & Open Space Projects
9226-005 - Quarry Park Mtc Building Utility Project 11,150 5,000 6,150 - 6,150
9274-002 - Blue Hills Elementary Ped Crossing at
Union 1,515,273 155,273 1,360,000 1,800,000 3,160,000
9274-003 & 4 - Joe's Trail Phase 2 & Phase 3 394,755 394,755 - CLOSED -
9277-004 - Saratoga Village to Quarry Park Walkway1 453,811 - 453,811 1,520,000 1,973,811
9277-005 - Village Oaks Birdge Reconstruction & 30,000 30,000 - CLOSED -
9277-006 - Hakone Gardens to Quarry Prk Trail Gap 50,000 50,000 - CLOSED -
9281-005 - Park and Trail Fire Mitigation 109,344 109,344 - 349,100 349,100
Trail & Open Space Projects Total 2,564,333 744,372 1,819,961 3,669,100 5,489,061
Total Park & Trail CIP 4,188,807 1,356,908 2,831,899 4,259,100 6,915,999
2024-25 2025-26
Expenditures
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
212
Annual Parks, Trails, Grounds, & Medians
Infrastructure
Project No. 9211-001
Project Manager – Shawn Gardner, Public Works Manager
This project annually funds infrastructure maintenance and
replacement related to parks, trails, grounds, and medians to
keep them beautiful and functioning properly for the enjoyment
of Saratoga residents. This project is one of the priority projects
identified by the City Council and receives an annual transfer of
$250,000 from the General Fund, as funding permits. In 2021-
22, the City Council increased the priority project funding goal
from $125,000 to $250,000.
• Parks: Infrastructure at parks includes, but is not limited to, playground equipment,
restroom and concessions buildings, fencing, tennis and basketball courts, playfields,
drinking fountains, pathways, and
parking lots.
• Trails: Trail infrastructure includes
pathways, signage, irrigation systems,
ramps & parking lots.
• Grounds: Grounds infrastructure is
located at properties including the
Civic Center, Saratoga-Prospect
Center, Library, and Blaney Plaza.
• Medians: Median infrastructure includes irrigation systems located at medians throughout
the City.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 374,829 200,829 174,000 250,000 424,000
Total 374,829 200,829 174,000 250,000 424,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship X Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement X
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2011-12
Approved/funded 2011-12
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
213
Citywide Tree Replanting Program
Project No. 9211-002
Project Manager - Shawn Gardner, Public Works Manager
This ongoing project provides for the upkeep of the City’s
urban forest through the planting of City trees and
shrubbery, installation of irrigation for new plantings, tree
maintenance, and removal of damaged trees on City
property. To mitigate the loss of the urban forest, the City
assesses fines for unpermitted tree removal and related
violations, and then uses these funds to reforest the City.
Fines provide the funding for the cost to plant new trees
and shrubbery and if needed, to install irrigation to
sustain the new plantings on public property. Staff
sometimes complete citywide tree replanting work;
however, larger-scale projects may be contracted out to
tree and landscape contractors.
The Citywide Tree Replanting Program offsets tree
planting and related maintenance expenses that are
funded through the City’s operating budget.
Additionally, maintaining the City’s urban tree canopy
adds to Saratoga’s attractiveness and increases its
desirability. To some degree, this helps to generate higher property values and consequently
higher property tax revenues received by the City.
Funding Source: Tree Fine Revenue
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
421 Tree Fine 7,030 0 7,030 0 7,030
Total 7,030 0 7,030 0 7,030
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of
replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability x Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2008-09
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
214
Mechanical Weed Abatement
Project No. 9211-011
Project Managers – Bridget Cash/Martin
Barajas
The City of Saratoga’s Integrated Pest
management Policy and Standard Operating
Procedures Stipulate the City aims to reduce
or eliminate the use of chemicals to the
maximum extent. Mechanical weed
abatement on City Trails will reduce on-going
dependence on chemical herbicides. Staff will
run an initial full year cycle of mechanical
abatement at the Parker Ranch Trail in FY24-
25 and 25-26
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 50,000 25,000 25,000 0 25,000
432 Park & Trails CIP Grant 75,000 0 75,000 0 75,000
Total 125,000 25,000 100,000 0 100,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement X
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability X Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2024
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
215
Residential Tree Planting Program
Project No. 9211-012
Project Manager – Mainini Cabute,
Environmental Program Manager
The City of Saratoga’s Climate Action Plan (CAP)
2030, adopted by the City Council in December
2020, recommends that the City continue to
proactively increase carbon sequestration efforts
to improve air quality and natural cooling through
increasing tree cover in Saratoga. This Residential
Tree Planting Program would be similar to the
2020 Trees by 2020 program that the City funded
in 2016. This Program will require partnership with
a tree supplier that will allow the City to subsidize
trees purchased by private property owners in
Saratoga for the purpose of planting in their front
yards. If successful, this program will continue until 2030.
Funding Source: General fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 55,000 55,000 0 55,000 55,000
Total 55,000 55,000 0 55,000 55,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship X Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability X Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2024
Approved/funded 2025-26
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
216
Annual Hakone Gardens Infrastructure
Improvements
Project No. 9222-004
Project Manager - Poh Yee, Civil Engineer
Hakone Gardens, a city-owned eighteen-acre park nestled
in the foothills just outside of Saratoga Village, is
maintained and operated by the Hakone Foundation, a
non-profit organization that seeks to promote a deeper
understanding of Japanese and general Asian culture
through the preservation of the oldest Japanese-style
residential garden in the Western Hemisphere.
In May 2016, the City Council approved the Hakone
Gardens Master Plan. During the development of the Plan a number of deferred maintenance
projects that required more than simple maintenance or repairs were identified. Project examples
include well pump replacement, wood damage mitigation, pest control, and garden, electrical, and
lighting improvements.
Initial funding for this project came from a
$125,000 allocation from the CIP reserve.
These funds have been used for the
replacement of railings, lighting and fixtures,
painting or public restrooms, and other repairs. Past improvements included the replacement of
the Cultural Center deck railings. Planned improvements include the reconstruction of the Upper
Wisteria Pavilion and maintenance projects identified in the master plan.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 59,390 40,000 19,390 0 19,390
422 Park-in-Lieu 25,838 25,500 338 25,000 25,338
Total 85,228 65,500 19,728 25,000 44,728
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage X Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2008-09
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
217
Hakone Gardens Pond Renovation – Phase I
Project No. 9222-008
Project Manager - John Cherbone, Public Works Director
This project would fund renovation of the Hakone Gardens Koi Pond.
Hakone Gardens, a city-owned eighteen-acre park nestled in the
foothills just outside of Saratoga Village, is maintained and operated
by the Hakone Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to
promote a deeper understanding of Japanese and general Asian
culture through the preservation of the oldest Japanese-style
residential garden in the Western Hemisphere.
The project would include site clearing and demolition, excavating
and grading, shotcrete preparation work, shotcrete with fibers,
sealing, boulder work, accent stone materials, ADA
accessibility, plumbing, drainage, irrigation, planting,
wood structures, survey staking, and geotechnical
inspections. The total cost for the Koi Pond is estimated
to be $5 million. Phase 1 is estimated to cost $ 3.7
million. The City will pursue grant funding from
intergovernmental and private sources.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 300,000 0 300,000 0 300,000
Total 300,000 0 300,000 0 300,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety x Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage x Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2022-23
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
218
Bellgrove Park Playground Replacement
Project No. 9233-001
Project Manager – Shawn Gardner
Remove and replace the playground structure at
Bellgrove Park to upgrade to one that is more
compliant to the current standards. The existing play
structure was installed in the 1990s.
Funding Source: LLA Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
422 Park-in-Lieu 150,000 0 150,000 50,000 200,000
Total 150,000 0 150,000 50,000 200,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2023
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction 2025-26
Completion 2025-26
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
219
Congress Springs Park
Concrete Repairs
Project No. 9251-001
Project Manager – Shawn Gardner
Remove and replace concrete square, slabs in turf
area and paver lips at Congress Springs Park to
mitigate tripping hazards.
Funding Source: Park Development Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
422 Park-in-Lieu 85,000 55,820 29,180 35,000 64,180
Total 85,000 55,820 29,180 35,000 64,180
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2023
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2025-26
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
220
El Quito Park Community Garden Improvement
Project No. 9252-004
Project Manager – Shawn Gardner
This project will overhaul the dated Community
Garden at El Quito Park. City staff will collaborate
with the Parks and Recreation Commission to
develop a new garden layout design. Remove
and replace fencing, irrigation, and standardized
raised planters for each plot. Create communal
landscape toolshed, compost area, and updated
signage.
Funding Source: Park Development Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget
Est. Total
Budget
422 Park-in-Lieu 332,000 100,000 232,000 0 232,000
Total 332,000 100,000 232,000 0 232,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): None
Mid-year budget adjustment $ amount and explanation: None
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system X
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of
replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2024
Approved/funded 2024-25
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2025-26
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
221
2024-25 Preliminary Proposed Budget
Capital Improvement Program Budget Request
Project Name Historical Museum Landscaping
CIP Category Parks and Trails
Project No. 422.9224-002
Des
c
r
i
p
t
i
o
n
Landscape and irrigation improvements at the Historical Park to be done after the ongoing ADA improvements are
completed. The design plans have been completed as part of the ADA improvements design.
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
f
i
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
s
Describe Revenue/Expenditure
(Prelim Eng, Design, Construction,
etc.)
Revenues
Expenditure
s
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
S
o
u
r
c
e
s
Sources Amount
Labor and materials 100,000 Transfers from Park Development
Funds 100,000
Preliminary 2024-25 budget request 100,000 5-year projected requirements,
unfunded
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Additional Resource Requirements Project Milestones/Timeline
Project
Manager
Shawn Gardener Project identified and proposed 2023-24
Project
Team
Shawn Gardner, Martin Barajas City Council approved and funded
Operatin
g budget
impacts
Design 2023-24
Construction 2025-26
Completion 2025-26
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
222
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
2025-26 Preliminary Proposed Budget
NEW - Capital Improvement Program Budget Request
Project Name: Quarry Park Parking Expansion
CIP Category Parks
Project No. 422.9226-006
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
f
i
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
s
Describe Revenue/Expenditure
(Prelim Eng, Design, Construction,
etc.)
Revenues Expenditures
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
S
o
u
r
c
e
s
Sources Amount
Design and Construction 75,000 Park Development Fee 75,000
Preliminary 2025-26 budget request 75,000 5-year projected
requirements, unfunded
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Additional Resource Requirements Project Milestones/Timeline
Project
Manager Shawn Gardener, Parks Manager Project identified and proposed FY2025-26
Project Team City Council approved and funded
Operating
budget impacts
Design FY2025-26
Construction FY2025-26
Completion FY2025-26
De
s
c
r
i
p
t
i
o
n
Describe Project: Expand existing parking area at Quarry Park to gain approximately 10 additional parking spaces.
Costs: $75,000
Funding Sources: Park Development Fee
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
223
Quarry Park Maintenance
Building Utility Project
Project No. 9226-005
Project Manager - Shawn Gardner, Public Works Manager
This project will fund the installation of electricity and water
to the Quarry Park maintenance building. Provides for
additional operational services as well as lighting for security
and worker safety.
Funding Source: Park In-Lieu
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
422 Park-in-Lieu 11,150 5,000 6,150 0 6,150
Total 11,150 5,000 6,150 0 6,150
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2022-23
Approved/funded 2022-23
Design/Construction 2024-25
Completion 2024-25
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
224
Blue Hills Elementary Pedestrian Crossing at Union
Pacific Railroad
Project No. 9274-002
Project Manager - Mainini Cabute, Environmental Programs Manager
The Blue Hills Pedestrian Crossing at UPRR
project (formally named Guava/Fredericksburg
Entrance & Railroad Crossing) will construct an
at-grade pedestrian crossing connecting
Fredericksburg Drive and Guava Court, which will
enhance pedestrian connectivity to Blue Hills
Elementary School. As part of the process of
reopening a crossing, UPRR requires that cities
close three existing railroad crossings. Due to the
City’s inability to close three crossings, UPRR
instead requires the City to upgrade pedestrian
and bicycle facilities at the following four railroad crossings
citywide: Glen Brae Drive, Cox Avenue, Saratoga-Sunnyvale
Road, and Arroyo de Arguello. The specific upgrades at these
four locations have been identified by the California Public
Utilities Commission and focus on improving pedestrian and
bicycle access and safety. The proposed pedestrian crossing
and the four railroad crossing upgrades are all part of this
project.
The scope of this original contract, which began in 2016, focused mostly on the pedestrian crossing at
Fredericksburg Drive and Guava Court and the four railroad crossing upgrades. Subsequently, the design
work for the contract was amended to include drainage repairs and bioswales along the southside of
Guava Court. However, in 2021, the City received funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
and the stormwater improvements at Guava Court was an eligible project for funding and was therefore
removed from the Blue Hills Pedestrian Crossing project.
To date, the City has paid approximately $383,000 for this project, which includes design work with BKF
Engineering and consulting with UPRR.
To pay for the upcoming costs, such as final design work for the project and construction, the City will
use two grants it recently received totaling $3 million. On June 23, 2021, the MTC Board approved the
Blue Hills project to receive $1.8 million in Safe and Seamless Mobility Quick Strike Program funding.
The grant requires a local match in the amount of $234,000. The grant approved projects that emphasized
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2013-14
Design/Construction 2023-24 &
2025-26
Completion 2025-26
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
225
Blue Hills Elementary Pedestrian Crossing at Union
Pacific Railroad (continued)
Project No. 9274-002
bicycle and pedestrian safety and mobility, connections to transit and projects that advance equitable
mobility. The Blue Hills Pedestrian Crossing at UPRR project will connect two neighborhoods in Saratoga
and allow community members, especially the Greenbrier neighborhood, to easily access Joe’s trail and
various destinations by bike and on foot. A resolution receiving this grant was approved by the City
Council in November 2021.
In early 2023, Caltrans notified Saratoga public works staff that Saratoga had a $1.2 million allocation
from the state’s Priority Legislative Budget Projects (PLBP) process. The $1.2 million funding is
earmarked for pedestrian safety improvements at railroad crossings. City staff worked with Caltrans to
develop a Fund Transfer Agreement and resolution, which City Council approved at its July 5, 2023
Council meeting. Staff submitted an invoice to Caltrans at the end of October 2023 and the City received
the funds on November 15, 2023.
Total available funding of $3,160,000 million will allow Saratoga to construct many, if not all, of the
pedestrian safety improvements required by both the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and
UPRR. City staff is waiting on cost estimates from UPRR with hopes that this total funding will be
sufficient to construct all of the improvements and complete the project.
Funding Source: General Fund and Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 330,163 30,163 300,000 0 300,000
432 Park & Trails CIP Grant
(PLBP) 1,185,110 125,110 1,060,000 0 1,060,000
432 Park & Trails CIP Grant
(MTC) 1,800,000 1,800,000
Total 1,515,273 155,273 1,360,000 1,800,000 3,160,000
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship X Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate X
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
226
Saratoga Village to Quarry Park Walkway
Project No. 9277-004
Project Manager - John Cherbone, Public Works Director
This project will fund the design, environmental review and
construction of a walkway from Saratoga Village to Hakone
Gardens and Quarry Park. When complete, this project will result
in construction of a walkway from Saratoga Village, past Hakone
Gardens, to Quarry Park. The project will be implemented over
several phases. Phase I of the project will begin with a pathway
between the Village and Hakone Gardens, phase II will extend
the walkway to the Quarry Park East Entrance, and the third and
final stage will continue the trail to the Quarry Park Main
Entrance. Currently, only the design of phase 1 is funded.
Developing a pedestrian connection from the Village to Hakone Gardens and Quarry Park will enhance
and enliven Saratoga Village, as the project would help to bring foot traffic to the Village, Hakone Gardens
and Quarry Park. Additionally, the project will provide a safer path
of travel for pedestrians who are currently walking along the
highway when the parking lot at Hakone Gardens is full.
The path will also serve as a critical starting point for the Saratoga-
to-Sea Trail that is part of the Santa Clara County Trail Master
Plan. The Saratoga-to-Sea Trail will begin in Saratoga Village,
travel up to Hakone Gardens and Quarry Park, through the
existing Sanborn-Skyline and Skyline-to-the-Sea trail systems to the Pacific Ocean.
In 2016-17, $50,000 was allocated from the CIP reserve and 2017-18 Council authorized an additional
allocation of $100,000 from Park Development fees to fund the design of phase I of this project.
Construction costs for phase I are estimated at $1.9 million. The City Council allocated $175,000 in 2019-
20, $25,000 in 2020-21, and $150,000 in 2022-23, from the CIP reserve towards construction to serve
as the City’s 20 percent local match should grant funding become available. Recent Federal legislation
awarded $1.52 million to support this project.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant Funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 230,000 0 230,000 0 230,000
422 Park-in-Lieu 223,811 0 223,811 0 223,811
432 Grant 0 0 0 1,520,000 1,520,000
Total 453,811 0 453,811 1,520,000 1,973,811
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2017-18
Design/Construction 2025-26
Completion 2027-28
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
227
Saratoga Village to Quarry Park Walkway
Project No. 9277-004 (continued)
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
228
Park and Trail Fire Mitigation
Project No. 9281-005
Project Manager - Shawn Gardner, Public Works Manager
Drought conditions have created high fire danger within the City
Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) area.
The project removes brush and dead trees to create defensible
space between City land and private property. Creating this
defensible space will improve safety. If not completed residential
areas adjacent to City properties will be subject to increased fire
danger.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
412 CIP Park & Trails 109,344 109,344 0 349,100 349,100
422 Park-in-Lieu 35,905 35,905 0 0 0
Total 145,249 145,249 0 349,100 349,100
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship X Health and safety issue
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability X Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2022-23
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Park & Trail Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
229
PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
230
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
CIVIC CENTER IMPROVEMENT PAGE
9322-001 Annual Civic Theater Annual Improvements 233
9322-013 PEG Projects 235
9xxx-xxx Corporation Yard Charging Station 236
LIBRARY BUILDING
9372-001 Saratoga Library Building Exterior Maintenance 237
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
231
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
Program Area Descriptions
The Capital Improvement Program’s Facility Improvement Program provides for capital maintenance and
improvements of the City of Saratoga’s buildings and structures. Projects in the Facility Program are
classified by site to capture both funding resources and site improvement information. There are further
sub-classifications by building within these sites. In summary, the Facility Improvement Program
categories are:
• Citywide Projects
• Civic Center
• Community Center
• Corporation Yard
• Saratoga-Prospect Center
• Village Historical Buildings
• Library Building
Civic Center – located at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, this site classification includes the Administration and
Community Development/ Engineering buildings, Theater/ Chamber Building, and the Warner Hutton
House.
Community Center – located at 19655 Allendale Avenue, this site includes the Senior Center, the Adult
Care Center, the Recreation Center, and the associated portables.
Corporation Yard – located at 19700 Allendale Avenue, The Corporation Yard Offices, associated open
bays, and the entire fenced-in parking lot complex comprise this site.
Saratoga Prospect Center – located at 19848 Prospect Avenue, this site is comprised of the Grace
Building, Friendship Hall, and the parking lot and grounds surrounding the buildings.
Village Historical Park – located at 20450 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road, this Historical Park represents a
collection of older City owned buildings in the village. This includes the Saratoga Historical Museum, the
Book-Go-Round, and the McWilliams House. All three buildings are occupied under long-term leases by
community-based organizations; however, the City bears some external building maintenance
responsibilities.
Library Building – located at 13650 Saratoga Avenue, near the corner of Saratoga Avenue and Fruitvale
Avenue, and adjacent to the Heritage Orchard Park. The building is leased to the Santa Clara County
Library Joint Powers Authority on a 30-year lease (effective July 2003) for use as a branch library. The
City retains responsibility for the parking lot. Exterior maintenance of the building is funded through an
annual allocation of $5,000 from Santa Clara County.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
232
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
Funding Summary by Project
Project Category & Project Name
Budget
Est. Full
Year
Actual
Carryover
Approved
Additions
Total
Budget
Civic Center Projects
9321-017 - Open Work Space/Office 102,400 102,400 - CLOSED -
9322-001 - Civic Theater Annual 99,323 10,000 89,323 35,000 124,323
9322-013 - PEG Projects 267,453 225,203 42,250 80,000 122,250
9xxx-xxx - Corporation Yard Charging Station - - - 150,000 150,000
Civic Center Projects Total 469,176 337,603 131,573 265,000 396,573
Library Projects
9372-001 - Saratoga Library Building Exterior
Mtc 13,070 13,880 (810) 10,000 9,190
Library Projects Total 13,070 13,880 (810) 10,000 9,190
Total Facilities CIP 482,246 351,483 130,763 275,000 405,763
Expenditures
2024-25 2025-26
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
233
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
Annual Civic Theater Improvements
Project No. 9322-001
Project Manager – Thomas Scott, Facilities Manager
The Theater groups and other local groups lease the Civic
Theater for rehearsals and performances. The main two
Theater groups both have three productions per year that
have shows lasting approximately six weeks each. The usage
by other groups are for various amounts of days.
To keep the Theater in optimal operating condition and offset
maintenance expenses resulting from the usage of the
Theater for performances, a $2.55 per ticket surcharge is
collected on each ticket sold and is then subsequently
remitted to the City to fund improvements. The surcharge
totals approximately $30,000 to $40,000 per year. Each
year, the two groups that primarily use the Civic Theater
work with staff to identify improvement priorities.
Improvements are made on an Ongoing basis and in the
past have included the installation of new LED lights throughout the Theater, a new lighting control
system, fully accessible seating, new acoustic treatments, Lobby upgrades, and stage flooring
replacement.
Regular improvements to the Civic Theater ensure that it remains an attractive venue for audiences and
Theater groups. The productions of the Theater groups draw visitors to Saratoga, which helps to support
the local economy, as audience members often visit Saratoga restaurants and shops before or after
attending shows. Most Theater improvements are performed by contractors and supervised by staff.
Funding Source: Fee revenue
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
413 CIP Facility 99,323 10,000 89,323 35,000 124,323
Total 99,323 10,000 89,323 35,000 124,323
Operating Budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2008-09
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
234
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
Civic Theater Annual Improvements (continued)
Project No. 9322-001
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
235
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
PEG Projects
Project No. 9322-013
Project Manager – Leslie Arroyo, Assistant City Manager
Pursuant to Section 611 of the Communications Act, The City
of Saratoga requires cable operators to set aside channels for
public, educational, or governmental ("PEG") use and provide
funds for equipment for local studios for these channels and
operating funds to cover the expenses of operating the
studios.
The City receives approximately $80,000 each year in PEG
funds from various cable operators. As of the end of FY
2018/19, the balance of PEG fees is estimated to be
$260,800. The City has partnered with the local Saratoga
Community Access Television station (KSAR) to use the
funds for improvement of the local television equipment.
However, the funds have accumulated to a position which
may allow the City to move forward on a major project that
will augment the City’s local broadcasting abilities. This
project will account for the PEG funds and subsequent use
if the Council identifies and approves an appropriate
project at a future time.
Funding Source: Fee revenue from cable operators
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
413 CIP Facility $267,453 $225,203 $42,250 $80,000 $122,250
Total $267,453 $225,203 $42,250 $80,000 $122,250
Operating budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of
replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement X Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed (1) Control Booth
Revision
(2) Office Expansion
Approved/funded 2024/25
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
236
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
2025-26 Preliminary Proposed Budget
NEW - Capital Improvement Program Budget Request
Project Name: Corporation Yard Charging Stations
CIP Category Facilities
Project No. 413.9341-003
Des
c
r
i
p
t
i
o
n
Describe Project: Upgrade to electrical panel and installation of electric vehicle charging
facilities at the Corporation Yard for City vehicle fleet.
Costs: $150,000
Funding Sources: General Fund
Pr
o
j
e
c
t
f
i
n
a
n
c
i
a
l
s
Describe Revenue/Expenditure
(Prelim Eng, Design, Construction,
etc.)
Revenues Expenditures
Fu
n
d
i
n
g
S
o
u
r
c
e
s
Sources Amount
Design and Construction 150,000 General Fund 150,000
Preliminary 2025-26 budget request 150,000 5-year projected requirements,
unfunded
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate x
Environmental Sustainability x Other:
Additional Resource Requirements Project Milestones/Timeline
Project
Manager
Rick Torres, Streets Manager Project identified and proposed FY2025-26
Project
Team
City Council approved and funded
Operating
budget
impacts
Design FY2025-26
Construction FY2025-26
Completion FY2025-26
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
237
Saratoga Library Building Exterior Maintenance
Project No. 9372-001
Project Manager - Thomas Scott, Facilities Manager
This project funds improvements to the exterior of the
Saratoga Library. The Saratoga Library is a City owned
property leased by the Santa Clara County Library Joint
Powers Authority. Under the current 30-year lease
(effective 2003), the County is responsible for maintaining
the interior of the building. However, the County agreed to
pay the City $5,000 on an annual basis to oversee and
perform certain maintenance work to ensure the building’s
exterior is maintained in accordance with City standards.
Every year these funds are used to repair and re-paint the
exterior walls of the Library building under the direction of
the Facilities Department. The unexpended funds are capped
at $25,000.
The exterior maintenance work is primarily performed by
contractors and managed by staff. Performing on-going
maintenance to the exterior of the Saratoga Library keeps the
building in good operating condition and prevents higher
costs associated with deferred maintenance. Exterior maintenance projects range from siding repairs
and re-painting. In 2010-11, the southern exposure of the library was re-painted, and in 2012-13, the
entire exterior was re-painted. In 2017-18, repairs and re-painting of the north and east facing walls were
completed. In 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, the exterior walls will be repaired and repainted.
Funding Source: Outside agency
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
413 CIP Facility 13,070 13,880 -810 10,000 9,190
Total 13,070 13,880 -810 10,000 9,190
Operating Budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
238
Saratoga Library Building Exterior Maintenance
(continued)
Project No. 9372-001
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure X Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source X
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Facilities Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
239
PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
240
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement
Program
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS PAGE
9415-004 Software Technology Management 243
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECTS
9442-001 Landscape & Lighting District Initiation Match Program 245
9442-002 Horseshoe Landscape & Lighting 247
9443-002 ADA Transition Plan Implementation 248
9443-003 Annual Public Art Infrastructure 249
9443-004 Safe Routes to School Needs Assessment 250
9443-005 El Quito Neighborhood Improvements 251
DEVELOPMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
9451-002 General Plan and Advanced Planning Update 252
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 241
Program Area Descriptions
The Capital Improvement Program’s Administrative & Technology Improvements Program provides for
major capital expenditures to improve or enhance administrative, technological, and operational systems,
processes, or functions. At this point, with few projects active at one time, the Administrative &
Technology Improvement Program is limited to four categories:
• Information Technology Projects
• Community Enhancement Programs
• City Development Projects & Programs
• Administrative Projects
In the future, Administrative & Technology Improvements projects may also include projects for
operational assessments, community surveys, or emergency operations projects. Currently, all projects
and programs fall within the following category descriptions:
Information Technology Projects – are comprised of projects that increase operational efficiencies
through software or hardware improvements. Currently, projects in this category include the Financial
System Upgrade and several document imaging projects.
Communication System Projects – include projects which acquire or upgrade communication
infrastructure. No projects are currently planned.
Community Enhancement Programs – consist of projects that fund infrastructure or policy updates that
have long-term impacts. This category includes the Secondhand Smoke Prevention Program.
City Development Projects & Programs – include projects and programs which provide funding for
quality-of-life enhancements, business incentives, and beautification efforts.
Administrative Projects & Programs – include projects and programs which improve administrative
operations or act as a funding placeholder and are not appropriately placed in a different category.
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
242
Funding Summary by Project
Project Category & Project Name
Budget
Est. Full
Year
Actual
Carryover Approved
Additions Total Budget
Information Technology Projects
9415-004 - Software Technology Management 208,086 108,090 99,997 350,000 449,997
Information Technology Projects Total 208,086 108,090 99,997 350,000 449,997
Community Enhancement Projects
9442-001 - Landscape & Lighting District Initiation 9,331 3,331 6,000 10,000 16,000
9442-002 - Horseshoe Landscape & Lighting 5,751 3,000 2,751 - 2,751
9443-002 - ADA Transition Implementation Plan 167,234 127,770 39,465 100,000 139,465
9443-003 - Annual Public Art Infrastructure 103,669 - 103,669 - 103,669
9443-004 - Safe Routes to School Needs 81,816 24,884 56,932 25,000 81,932
9443-005 - El Quito Neighborhood Improvements 134,507 - 134,507 - 134,507
9443-008 - ADA Self-assessment & Transition - - - Closed -
Community Enhancement Projects Total 502,308 158,985 343,324 135,000 478,324
Development Improvement Projects
9451-002 - General Plan & Advanced Planning 351,124 316,000 35,124 1,000,000 1,035,124
Development Improvement Projects Total 351,124 316,000 35,124 1,000,000 1,035,124
Total Administrative & Technology CIP 1,061,518 583,075 478,444 1,485,000 1,963,444
Expenditures
2024-25 2025-26
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 243
Community Development Software Technology
Management
Project No. 9415-004
Project Manager – Bryan Swanson,
Community Development Director
This project accounts for technology fee
revenues and expenditures in support of
community development software
technology. The current fee and
expenditure structure shifted from the
operating budget to the capital budget to
isolate the functions, clarify the nexus,
and track dedicated revenues for multi-
year operational expenses. In 2020-21,
a separate technology fee was
implemented and accounted for in the
Software Technology Management
project.
The previous Community Development
Document Management CIP project has been closed and the 2023/24 Fee Schedule updated. This CIP
project funds the Community Development Department’s
permit system (CentralSquare’s TRAKiT) as well as document
digitization projects. Although many documents now come into
Community Development in electronic form, there are still
previous documents that need to be converted into a digitized
format.
Funding Source: Fee revenue
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget
Est. Total
Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 208,086 108,090 99,996 350,000 449,996
Total 208,086 108,090 99,996 350,000 449,996
Operating Budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2008
Approved/funded 2020-21
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
244
Community Development Software Technology
Management (continued)
Project No. 9415-004
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of
replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source ×
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability × Other:
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 245
Landscape & Lighting District Initiation Match
Program
Project No. 9442-001
Project Manager - John Cherbone, Public Works Director
The LLD Initiation Match Program is available for new districts
formed within the City of Saratoga. This project provides
matching funds for initial landscaping improvements to
encourage neighborhood associations to enter into a Landscape
and Lighting District arrangement with the City. It also funds the
initial assessment engineering and public noticing costs incurred
in the formation of new LLDs. Improvements are typically made
along City arterials leading into a neighborhood, thereby
providing a beautiful gateway entrance. New LLDs have also
been formed to fund the installation of automatic license
plate readers (ALPR) in the public right of way. District
assessments will fund the subsequent upkeep of the
improvements, including water, lighting, and landscape
maintenance costs as well as the ALPRs.
This project represents a contribution of City funds to be
provided to new Landscape and Lighting Districts (LLD) on a 50 percent match basis, up to $25,000,
toward initial improvements to be completed at the onset of the new LLD. The program is intended to
encourage residents to form a neighborhood assessment district by matching the district’s initial
assessment with funds from the City, thereby enabling the quick implementation of landscape and/or
lighting improvements within a newly formed district.
To date, the program has supported the development of the following new districts; Allendale, Covina,
and Brookglen, with improvements including entryway beautification, landscaping, signage, lighting, and
irrigation. It has also supported the initiation of several new LLDs formed for the purpose of funding
installation and annual costs of ALPRs in neighborhoods including Saratoga Wood, Gardiner Park, Lower
Pierce, Burgundy, Golden Triangle and Austin-Bainter.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 9,331 3,331 6,000 10,000 16,000
Total 9,331 3,331 6,000 10,000 16,000
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2016-17
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
246
Landscape & Lighting District Initiation Match
Program (continued)
Project No. 9442-001
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure × Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost of
replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 247
Horseshoe Landscape & Lighting District
Beautification Project
Project No. 9442-002
Project Manager - John Cherbone, Public Works
Director
This project funds minor beautification projects within the
Horseshoe Lighting and Landscaping District. During
Fiscal Year 2014/15, the City received payment from a
cellular service provider as a result of the installation of
a cell phone tower within the Horseshoe Landscaping
and Lighting District. The provider made initial
improvements, including planting trees to screen the
cellular site equipment, and agreed to pay the City for
landscape maintenance. This project is funded by a
contribution from a cellular service provider in the
amount of $25,000.
When the available funds are exhausted, the continued maintenance costs will be budgeted in the Parks
Operating Budget. This will include water usage bills to SJWC for the irrigation.
Funding Source: One-time private funds
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
414 CIP Admin &
Tech 5,751 3,000 2,751 0 2,751
Total 5,751 3,000 2,751 0 2,751
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source x
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2015-16
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
248
ADA Transition Plan Implementation
Project No. 9443-002
Project Manager - John Cherbone, Public Works Director
There are a number of regulations that help ensure people with
disabilities can access buildings, parks, parking, and other
facilities. For example, there are specifications establishing
minimum ratios of accessible parking spaces in parking lots
and requirements for minimum width for parking spaces and
access aisles to provide individuals in wheelchairs or with
mobility limitations with sufficient room to exit or enter vehicles.
This project (formally named Citywide Accessibility Needs
Assessment) includes assessment of the City’s compliance
with accessibility requirements at City parking lots, (including
those owned or leased by the City) and traffic signals and
subsequent implementation of modifications as needed to
bring an identified areas into compliance.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 167,234 127,770 39,464 100,000 139,464
Total 167,234 127,770 39,464 100,000 139,464
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety x Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2018-19
Design/Construction 2022-23 &
2023-24
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 249
Annual Public Art Infrastructure
Project No. 9443-003
Project Manager – Leslie Arroyo, Assistant City Manager
This priority capital project would fund various public art
projects in the City. In 2016, the City Council established a
public art committee to make recommendations related to the
City’s public art efforts. Since then, the Committee was
suspended and the Public Art Commission was formed to
advise the City Council on public art policies, budgets, plans,
procedures, and projects, including major efforts that could be
funded through the Annual Public Art Infrastructure project. In
December 2023, the City Council voted to disband the Public
Art Commission and merge it with the Library and Community
Engagement Commission to now be called the Library and
Public Art Commission.
This capital project will fund a variety of public art initiatives and any public art proposals that may arise.
The project receives an annual allocation of $25,000 as a priority project.
Funding Source: General Fund
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 103,669 0 103,669 0 103,669
Total 103,669 0 103,669 0 103,669
Operating Budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2019
Approved/funded 2019-20
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
250
Safe Routes to School Needs Outreach
Project No. 9443-004
Project Manager - Mainini Cabute, Environmental
Programs Manager
This project will fund a traffic engineering plan which would
include several elements aimed to promote bicycling and
walking as the preferred travel modes to school.
Project elements for this design plan include:
• Conceptual plan drawings of traffic safety
improvements near schools, prioritize based on
safety, to promote pedestrian and bike travel.
• School maps, developed for each school, to show
the distribution of students around the community,
identifying corridors that should be improved.
• An enforcement evaluation that reviews and improves signage and/or markings to allow for
effective enforcement.
In addition, the project includes efforts in outreach and
education aimed to inform residents of safe pedestrian and
bicycle rider practices and routes. The City receives a
community outreach grant from the VTA for education and
encouragement of bicycle and pedestrian activities and
projects. The grant allocation varies from year to year. To date, the City has expended $33,436 of the
allocations received.
Funding Source: General Fund & Grant
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget
Est. Total
Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 14,932 0 14,932 0 14,932
434 Admin & Tech CIP Grant 66,884 24,884 42,000 25,000 67,000
Total 81,816 24,884 56,932 25,000 81,932
Operating Budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety x Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2021-22
Approved/funded 2021-22
Design 2022-23
Education and Outreach 2023-24
Completion 2025-26
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 251
El Quito Neighborhood Improvements
Project No. 9443-005
Project Manager - John Cherbone, Public Works Director
This project will fund future projects within
the El Quito Neighborhood in the City of
Saratoga. In 2019-20, the City dissolved the
El Quito Landscape & Lightning District and
incorporated the neighborhood’s
maintenance within the City’s normal
operations. A portion of the funds in the
district is set aside in this project for future
projects within this area.
Funding Source: One-time funds from the
El Quito Landscape & Lighting District
dissolution
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 134,507 0 134,507 0 134,507
Total 134,507 0 134,507 0 134,507
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship x Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure x Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement x Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2019-20
Approved/funded 2019-20
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
252
General Plan & Advance Planning Update
Project No. 9451-002
Project Manager – Bryan Swanson, Community Development
Director
Although the General Plan 2040, which includes the Housing
Element, the Circulation Element, Open Space Element, Land
Use Element, and Safety Element will be completed by June 30,
2024, fees are still being collected for the next General Plan
Update.
The General Plan and Advanced Planning policy document
contains approved long-range policies of acceptable land uses for
the city. Each city adopts and periodically updates its General Plan and Advanced Planning policy
documents to guide the long-term growth and land development of the community. The General Plan and
Advanced Planning policy documents are the foundation for establishing goals, purpose, zoning, and
activities to ensure compatibility and continuity throughout the city.
As the legislature requires a city’s zoning and subdivision
approvals be consistent with their adopted General Plan,
updates to the General Plan must be made in conjunction with
development related code changes. Development fees are
collected to provide the funding needed to meet this
requirement as a result of changing land uses in the community.
Government code dictates that the General Plan contain seven mandatory elements: land use,
circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, and safety. As each of these elements require
technical expertise, consultants and attorneys are retained to assist with the updates. Additionally, the
State Planning Law also allows for specific plans to serve as “mini-General Plans” for predesignated and
defined planning areas such as the City’s Hillsides or The Village. Most communities update their Specific
Plans overtime in conjunction with periodic updates of their General Plan and sub-elements.
Funding Source: Fee revenue
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed
Approved/funded 2014-15
Design/Construction
Completion Ongoing
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget 253
General Plan & Advance Planning Update (continued)
Project No. 9451-002
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
414 CIP Admin & Tech 351,124 316,000 35,124 1,000,000 1,035,124
Total 351,124 316,000 35,124 1,000,000 1,035,124
Operating Budget Impact (if any):
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation:
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate x
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Administrative & Technology Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
254
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ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
255
ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
STORMWATER AND STORMDRAIN PROJECTS PAGE
9142-025 Storm Drain Master Plan 258
9142-029 Saratoga Village Water Quality Improvement Plan 259
ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
256
Program Area Descriptions
The Capital Improvement Program’s ARPA/SLFRF Capital Improvement Program provides for
Public Works Projects that are funded by the American Rescue Plan Act’s (ARPA) $7.2 million
allocation to Saratoga.
Eight projects are currently funded through ARPA and are expected to be completed either in
fiscal year 2025-26 or 2025-26. The projects include Park Sewer Lateral Replacement
Upgrades, a Storm Water Master Plan and a Water Quality Improvement Plan all designed to
improve Saratoga’s infrastructure.
A complete set of current projects is below:
• Park Sewer Lateral Replacement Upgrades
• Storm Drain Master Plan
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program Compliance (SWPPP)
• Saratoga Village Water Quality Improvement Plan
• City Hall Sustainable Landscape Beautification & Demonstration Project
• Guava Court Improvements
• Monte Vista Storm Drainage Improvements
• Historical Park Storm Drainage Improvements
ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
257
Funding Summary by Project
Project Category & Project Name
Budget Est. Full
Year
Actual
Carryover Approved
Additions
Total
Budget
ARPA/SLFRF Projects
9142-024 Park Sewer Lateral Replacement 415,470 415,470 - Closed -
9142-025 Storm Drain Master Plan 81,171 40,000 41,171 - 41,171
9142-028 Stormwater Pollution Prevention (SWPPP)87,514 87,514 - Closed -
9142-029 Saratoga Village Water Quality Imp. Plan 4,378,787 2,500,000 1,878,787 - 1,878,787
9142-031 City Hall Sustainable Landscape Project 11,000 11,000 - Closed -
9142-032 Guava Court Improvements 27,019 27,019 - Closed -
9142-033 Monte Vista Storm Storm Drain Imp.6,200 6,200 - Closed -
9142-034 Historical Park Storm Drain Imp.97,432 97,432 - Closed -
ARPA/SLFRF Projects Total 5,104,592 3,184,634 1,919,958 - 1,919,958
Expenditures
2024-25 2025-26
ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
258
Storm Drain Master Plan
Project No. 9142-025
Project Manager - Emma Burkhalter, Associate Engineer
Stormwater infrastructure is located
throughout the City. This project updates the
Stormwater Infrastructure Master Plan by
determining the condition, age, type, and
accurate location of all storm drains, drain
inlets, outfalls, and other storm drain facilities
operated and maintained by the City. Most of
the City’s stormwater infrastructure is
between 50 and 100 years old. The
Stormwater Master Plan provides accurate
information to manage the system’s
operational integrity through a proactive
infrastructure program. Revenue sources include federal
funds advanced by the Department of Treasury under
the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
(SLFRF/ARPA) in 2021-22 and 2022-23 and the General
Fund for City staff project management, as necessary.
The Stormwater Master Plan Project is one of five
phased and integrated stormwater infrastructure projects totaling $7.2 million. Funds may be reallocated
between phases, as necessary, based on project design and bids.
Funding Source: American Rescue Plan Act’s State and Local Fiscal Relief Fund (ARPA/SLFRF)
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
435 ARPA 81,171 40,000 41,171 0 41,171
Total 81,171 40,000 41,171 0 41,171
Operating Budget Impact (if any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue
Public Safety Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure × Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement ×
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source ×
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate
Environmental Sustainability Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2021-22
Approved/funded 2021-22
Design/Construction Ongoing
Completion 2025-26
ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
259
Saratoga Village Water Quality Improvement Plan
Project No. 9142-029
Project Manager - Mainini Cabute, Environmental Programs Manager
This project will repair, resize, remove, and replace storm sewers, and additional types of stormwater
infrastructure improvements to the City’s stormwater collection and treatment systems in the Village to
reduce parking district surface contaminants in stormwater runoff that discharges into Saratoga Creek.
This project will improve water quality in Saratoga and will fulfill State mandates. If not completed, the
City would be out of compliance with State Water permit requirements. Stormwater treatment in the
Village Parking districts also benefit regional water quality for approximately 8 miles across the Santa
Clara Valley, including through the cities of San Jose and Santa Clara, before entering the San Francisco
Bay. Anticipated revenue sources include SLFRF/ARPA and the General Fund for City staff project
management, as necessary. The Saratoga Village Water Quality Improvement Plan is one of five phased
and integrated stormwater infrastructure projects totaling $7.2 million. Funds may be reallocated
between phases, as necessary, based on project design and
bids.
Funding Source: American Rescue Plan Act’s State and
Local Fiscal Relief Fund (ARPA/SLFRF)
Expenditure Budget
2024-25 2025-26
Fund Available
Budget
Est. Full
Year Actual
Est.
Carryover
Proposed
Budget Est. Total Budget
435 ARPA 4,378,787 2,500,000 1,878,787 0 1,878,787
Total 4,378,787 2,500,000 1,878,787 0 1,878,787
Operating Budget Impact (If any): none
Mid-year adjustment $ amount and explanation: none
City Council Adopted Strategic Goals & Priorities CIP Priority Factors
City Leadership & Fiscal Stewardship Health and safety issue x
Public Safety X Imminent failure of structure/system
Facilities & Infrastructure × Short-term cost of repair vs. long-term cost
of replacement
Community Heritage Availability of external funding source x
Community Engagement Federal or State mandate x
Environmental Sustainability x Other:
Project Milestones
Identified/proposed 2021-22
Approved/funded 2021-22
Design/Construction 2023-24
Completion 2025-26
ARPA SLFRF Capital Improvement Program
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
260
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Supplementary Budget Information
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
261
INTRODUCTION
The Supplementary Section of the budget includes information that enhances the usability of the budget
document as a policy document, financial plan, operating guide, and communication tool.
Starting in 2022-23, City staff initiated a budget document refresh to embrace recent trends in budget
documents that serve to improve accessibility and understanding of city finances for those less familiar with
government operations or accounting. We strive for continuous improvement and work to improve this
document so that it is user-friendly and allows readers to easily navigate to various sections and relevant
external documents using hyperlinks. With the understanding that printed documents do not benefit from
hyperlinks, City staff continues to incorporate best practices in budget communication by focusing on
opportunities to effectively communicate the budget with both paper and electronic formats.
The 2025-26 budget builds on the success of past budgets by continuing the use of tables and charts to
allow readers to clearly view financial details and trends. Visuals placed throughout the document help to
showcase the City's services and highlight Saratoga's unique character.
Supplementary Budget Information
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
262
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CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
263
Accounting and Budgetary Structure
ACCOUNTING AND BUDGETARY STRUCTURE
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
264
Accounting and Budgetary Structure
FUND DESCRIPTIONS
The basic accounting and reporting entity for the City of Saratoga is a fund. A fund is a fiscal and accounting
entity used to record all financial transactions related to the specific purpose for which the fund was created.
Funds are established for the purpose of carrying on specific activities or attaining certain objectives in
accordance with special regulations, restrictions, or limitations.
Funds used in government are classified into three broad categories: governmental, proprietary, and
fiduciary. Governmental funds include activities usually associated with a typical state or local government's
operations (public safety, general government activities, etc.). Proprietary funds are used in governments
to account for activities often found in the private sector (such as utilities, stadiums, or golf courses). Trust
and Agency funds are utilized in situations where the government is acting in a fiduciary capacity as a
trustee or agent. The City’s various funds are grouped in fund types and categories as follows:
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS
Includes activities usually associated with governmental entity operations, including public safety, planning
and building services, parks and public works, and general administrative functions.
General Fund
The General Fund serves as the City’s primary operating fund. All general tax revenues and other receipts
not allocated by law or some other contractual agreement to other funds are accounted for in the General
Fund. Expenditures of this fund include the general operating expenses traditionally associated with
governments such as city administration, development services, public works, and public safety.
Special Revenue Funds
Special Revenue Funds are used to account for revenues that are legally restricted to expenditures for
specific purposes. The City of Saratoga has the following type of Special Revenue Funds:
Special Assessment District Funds – Saratoga currently has 32 special assessment districts which voted
to have the City provide oversight and maintenance of trees, landscaping, irrigation systems, and lighting
systems in neighborhood and commercial areas. Separate funds are established to account for each
district.
Debt Service Funds
Debt Service Funds are used to account for the acquisition of resources and the payment of long-term debt
on City obligations. The City has the following Debt Service Funds:
• 2001 Series General Obligation Bond Fund – established to account for the obligation incurred under
the citizen approved 2001 General Obligation Bond debt for the Library remodel.
• 2018 Arrowhead Community Facility District (CFD) Bond Fund – established to account for the
obligation incurred by the Arrowhead CFD to fund water infrastructure improvements for the 39
properties within the District.
Capital Project Funds
Capital Project Funds are used to account for the acquisition, construction, and improvement of capital
infrastructure. The City budgets and accounts for capital projects in:
• Capital Project Funds – established to provide resources for capital projects funded from accumulated
reserves and designated capital revenues.
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
2025-26 Adopted Budget
265
Accounting and Budgetary Structure
• Development Impact Funds – accounts for revenues restricted for specific capital project uses.
• Grant Project Funds – budgets and accounts for projects funded in whole or in part by grant revenues.
• Gas Tax Fund – budgets and accounts for revenues and expenditures pertaining to the maintenance
and construction of City Streets.
PROPRIETARY FUNDS
Proprietary funds are structured to impose fees or charges upon those who use their services. There are
two classifications of proprietary funds: Enterprise Funds, and Internal Service Funds.
• Enterprise Funds – are used to account for activities that are operated in a manner similar to a private
business enterprise, where the costs of the goods are to be financed or recovered primarily through
external user charges. The City of Saratoga does not currently provide services or activities (e.g. golf
course or utility service) which would be accounted for through Enterprise Funds.
• Internal Service Funds – the City utilizes Internal Service Funds to provide centralized cost centers
for shared expenses and services in order to efficiently track costs and manage resources. Costs are
allocated back to operational programs and users based on usage to better reflect the full cost of
operations.
Internal Service Funds
Used to account for services provided to departmental programs by City-wide administered programs and
staff. The City has several of these types of funds:
• Liability/Risk Management Insurance Fund – Accounts for insurance premiums, self-insured portion
of claims, and administrative costs associated with settling claims. Charges are allocated to programs
based upon liability risk and claim occurrence history.
• Worker's Compensation Insurance Fund - Accounts for insurance premiums, self-insured portion of
claims, and administrative costs associated with settling claims. Charges made to operating
departments are based on liability risk and claim occurrence history.
• Office Support Services Fund – Photocopy equipment, postage and bulk mail meter expenses are
controlled at one source point and expended to the departments as goods or services are utilized.
• Information Technology (IT) Services Fund – Information Technology Services supports the delivery
of technology-based services and infrastructure, including desktop support, network systems,
technology upgrades and initiatives, communication systems, and associated IT equipment.
• Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance Fund - Accounts for the cost of operating and maintaining
vehicles and equipment used for service operations in various City departments.
• Facility Maintenance Fund – Accounts for operational costs associated with building maintenance.
Includes custodial supplies and services, maintenance and repair, utilities, and staffing costs.
• Vehicle & Equipment Replacement Fund – Established to accumulate funding for the replacement
of vehicles and equipment. Replacement costs are charged to departments over the asset’s life span,
reflective of usage.
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• IT Equipment Replacement Fund – Established to accumulate funding for the replacement of
information technology equipment. Replacement costs are charged to departments over the asset’s
lifespan, reflective of usage.
• Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FFE) Replacement Fund – Established to accumulate funding
for the replacement of facility furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Replacement costs are charged to
departments over the asset’s lifespan, reflective of usage.
FIDUCIARY FUNDS
Fiduciary Funds are used to account for assets held by the City acting in a fiduciary capacity for other
entities and individuals. Such funds are operated to carry out the specific actions of trust agreements,
ordinances and other governing regulations. There are two categories of fiduciary funds: Trust, and Agency.
Trust Funds
Trust Funds account for assets held by the City in a trustee capacity where the City oversees the use of
resources in accordance with formal trust agreements. The City does not currently administer this fund
type.
Agency Funds
Agency funds account for assets held in the capacity of an agent for individuals, governmental entities, and
non-public organizations. The City does not direct fiscal or operational activities, just receives and disburses
funds per direction from the entity’s management. For this reason, these funds are not included in the City
budget document but may be included in the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report at the direction
of the City’s Auditors.
• West Valley Stormwater Authority – Beginning July 1, 2018, the City began acting as the fiscal agent
for the West Valley Stormwater Authority - formerly West Valley Clean Water Program Authority. This
is an ongoing arrangement to support the joint powers authority (JPA) formed by the Town of Los Gatos
and the Cities of Campbell, Monte Sereno and Saratoga to collectively manage the Clean Water
Program and the Non-Point Pollution Control Program efforts.
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BUDGETARY FUND STRUCTURE
LIST OF PROGRAMS
PROPRIETARY
FUNDS
FIDUCIARY
FUNDS
DEPARTMENTS
General
Fund
Special
Revenue
Capital
Improvement
Debt
Service
Internal
Service Funds Trust / Agency
Council & Commissions
City Manager
Administrative Services
Community Development
Public Works
Community Services
Public Safety
Non-Departmental
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS
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General Fund
(Major Fund )Special Revenue Funds Debt Service
Fund
Capital Funds
(Major Fund)
Primary Operating Fund Landscape & Lighting
District Funds Bond Repayment Fund Capital Improvement
Programs
111 General Fund 311 GO Bond Debt Street Improvements
411 City Funded CIP
431 Grant Funded CIP
481 Gas Tax Funded CIP
Park Improvements
412 City Funded CIP
432 Grant Funded CIP
421 Tree Fine Funded CIP
422 Park In Lieu Fund CIP
Facility Improvements
413 City Funded CIP
433 Grant Funded CIP
Admin & Technology
414 City Funded CIP
434 Grant Funded CIP
ARPA
435 Grant Funded CIP
Internal Service Funds Enterprise
Funds Trust Funds Agency Funds
None None
Insurance Funds
611 Risk Management
612 Workers Comp
Operation & Maintenance
621 Office Support
622 IT Services
623 Vehicle & Equip Mtc
624 Facility Maint
Asset Replacement Funds
631 Veh & Equip Rplcmt
632 IT Equip Rplcmt
633 Facility FFE Rplcmt
Joint Powers Authority
713 West Valley Clean
Water Authority Agency
Fund is not included in
the City budget document
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS
32 Assessment District
Funds
Fiscal Agent Programs
361 Arrowhead Community
Facility District Bond Debt
Operational and Asset
Funding Programs
PROPRIETARY FUNDS FIDUCIARY FUNDS
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LIST OF FUNDS
GENERAL FUND .......................................................................................................................................... 111
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS
LIGHTING DISTRICT
Sarahills Lighting ................................................................................................................................ 233
LANDSCAPE DISTRICTS
Arroyo de Saratoga Landscape .......................................................................................................... 241
Bonnet Way Landscape ..................................................................................................................... 242
Carnelian Glen Landscape ................................................................................................................. 243
Cunningham/Glasgow Landscape...................................................................................................... 244
Fredericksburg Landscape ................................................................................................................. 245
Greenbriar Landscape ........................................................................................................................ 246
Kerwin Ranch Landscape ................................................................................................................... 247
Leutar Court Landscape ..................................................................................................................... 248
Manor Drive Landscape ..................................................................................................................... 249
McCartysville Landscape .................................................................................................................... 251
Prides Crossing Landscape ................................................................................................................ 252
Saratoga Legends Landscape ............................................................................................................ 253
Sunland Park Landscape ................................................................................................................... 254
Tricia Woods Landscape .................................................................................................................... 255
Allendale Landscape .......................................................................................................................... 256
Covina Landscape .............................................................................................................................. 257
LANDSCAPE & LIGHTING DISTRICTS
Beauchamps Landscape & Lighting ................................................................................................... 271
Bellgrove Landscape & Lighting ......................................................................................................... 272
Gateway Landscape & Lighting .......................................................................................................... 273
Horseshoe Landscape & Lighting....................................................................................................... 274
Tollgate Landscape & Lighting ........................................................................................................... 276
Westbrook Landscape & Lighting ....................................................................................................... 278
Brookview Landscape & Lighting ............................................................................................... 279
Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) Districts
Saratoga Woods .................................................................................................................................. 280
Gardiner Park ....................................................................................................................................... 281
Lower Pierce ........................................................................................................................................ 282
Golden Triangle ................................................................................................................................... 283
Burgundy .............................................................................................................................................. 284
Austin Bainter ....................................................................................................................................... 285
Padero.................................................................................................................................................. 286
Glen Una .............................................................................................................................................. 287
Quito Oaks ........................................................................................................................................... 288
STORM WATER MAINTENANCE DISTRICTS
Hill Avenue Storm Water District ........................................................................................................ 291
Paramount Court Storm Water District ............................................................................................... 292
INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS
Risk Management / Liability Fund ...................................................................................................... 611
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Workers Compensation Fund ............................................................................................................. 612
Office Support Services Fund ............................................................................................................. 621
Information Technology Services Fund .............................................................................................. 622
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance Fund ........................................................................................... 623
Facility Maintenance Fund .................................................................................................................. 624
Vehicle & Equipment Replacement Fund ........................................................................................... 631
IT Equipment Replacement Fund ....................................................................................................... 632
Facility Furniture, Fixture, Equipment (FFE) Replacement Fund ....................................................... 633
DEBT SERVICE FUNDS
2011 Series G.O. Bonds Debt Service Fund ...................................................................................... 311
2018 Arrowhead CFD Bond Debt Service Fund ................................................................................ 361
CAPITAL PROJECT FUNDS
Capital Improvement Fund – Streets Projects .................................................................................... 411
Capital Improvement Fund – Park and Trail Projects ......................................................................... 412
Capital Improvement Fund – Facility Improvement Projects .............................................................. 413
Capital Improvement Fund – Administrative & Tech Projects ............................................................ 414
Tree Fund ........................................................................................................................................... 421
Park-in-Lieu Fund ............................................................................................................................... 422
Streets Grant Fund ............................................................................................................................. 431
Park & Trail Grant Fund ...................................................................................................................... 432
Facility Improvements Grant Fund ..................................................................................................... 433
Administrative & Technology Grant Fund ........................................................................................... 434
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA SLFRF) Capital Fund.................................................................. 435
Gas Tax Fund .................................................................................................................................... 481
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Accounting and Budgetary Structure
LIST OF PROGRAMS
GENERAL FUND
Council & Commissions
City Council ....................................................................................................................................... 1101
Commissions .................................................................................................................................... 1201
City Manager’s Department
City Manager’s Office ....................................................................................................................... 2101
City Clerk .......................................................................................................................................... 2201
Public Information Office .................................................................................................................. 2401
Administrative Services Department
Finance ............................................................................................................................................. 3101
Human Resources ............................................................................................................................ 3301
Administrative Services .................................................................................................................... 3401
Community Development Department
Development Services ...................................................................................................................... 4101
Advanced Planning ........................................................................................................................... 4102
Code Compliance ............................................................................................................................. 4103
Building & Inspection Services ......................................................................................................... 4201
Public Works Department
General Engineering ........................................................................................................................ 5101
Development Engineering ................................................................................................................ 5102
Environmental Services .................................................................................................................... 5103
Streets & Storm Drains ..................................................................................................................... 5201
Parks & Landscape Maintenance ..................................................................................................... 5301
Community Services Department
Recreation Services ......................................................................................................................... 6101
Facility Rentals ................................................................................................................................. 6201
Community Engagement .................................................................................................................. 6103
City Events ........................................................................................................................................ 6301
Community Grants ............................................................................................................................ 6302
Community Events............................................................................................................................ 6303
Public Safety
Public Safety Services ...................................................................................................................... 7101
Emergency Preparedness ................................................................................................................ 7102
Non-Departmental
General Administration ..................................................................................................................... 8101
Legal Services .................................................................................................................................. 8202
Emergency Operation Claims ........................................................................................................... 8901
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INTERNAL SERVICE PROGRAMS
Administrative Services Department
Office Support ................................................................................................................................... 3102
Information Technology Services ..................................................................................................... 3201
IT Equipment Replacement .............................................................................................................. 3202
Risk Management / Liability .............................................................................................................. 3501
Workers Compensation .................................................................................................................... 3601
Community Development Department
Facility Maintenance ......................................................................................................................... 4401
Facility (Furniture, Fixture, and Equipment) FFE ............................................................................. 4402
Public Works
Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance................................................................................................... 5202
Vehicle & Equipment Replacement .................................................................................................. 5203
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS
Public Works
Assessment Districts ........................................................................................................................ 5302
DEBT SERVICE FUNDS
Non-Departmental
2011 Series G.O. Bonds Debt Service ............................................................................................. 8601
2018 Arrowhead CFD Bond Debt Service ........................................................................................ 8602
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FINANCIAL PLANNING
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Overview
City staff provide City Council and the community with a multi-year financial forecast as part of the annual
budget kickoff in the third quarter of the fiscal year which can be found here. The following section
summarizes the methodology employed in the annual long-range plan development.
This first section of the forecast process is focused on the General Fund, the City’s primary operating fund.
The forecast sections then move to focus on the other funds separately, which helps to provide clarity to
the individual components and operating basis of the City’s financial structure. These funds include Capital
Improvement Funds, Internal Service Funds, Special Revenue Funds, and Debt Service Funds.
General Fund
The 2025-26 budget process continued a multi-year approach to addressing a narrowing gap between
revenues and expenditures primarily due to slowing property tax growth rates and increases in the cost of
goods and services. To facilitate budget development, City staff provided an updated multi-year forecast
as discussed below.
The multi-year General Fund Forecast looks forward three to five years, typically under static assumptions,
using prior year actuals, trends, known future changes, and the current year’s forecast as the base. The
forecast does not project future operational changes as those are the prerogative of City Council and
management. Instead, it provides revenue and expenditure data based on trend analysis, new data
impacting trends, and relatively conservative forward-looking assumptions. The following graph shows the
General Fund three-year forecast, using 2025-26 budget as the base year:
Developing the five-year forecast for the 2025-26 budget cycle was challenging, as several factors made
historical trends unreliable. The pandemic caused unusual revenue fluctuations, and high inflation has
20.0
25.0
30.0
35.0
40.0
45.0 Operating Expense Op & Capital Expense
Revenues
In
(
$
mi
l
l
i
o
n
s
)
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complicated predictions for both revenues and expenditures. Despite these challenges, the forecast
indicates that annual property tax growth is slowing from pandemic highs of 8% to a more typical rate of
about 5.5%. The 2025-26 budget assumes 5.5% property tax growth, with 5.7% projected for future years
based on the 15-year average.
The purpose of the annual forecast is to act as a guide to identify potential financial challenges requiring
attention in the near future. For instance, a negative net revenue amount in an out-year does not reflect
what will happen, but rather indicates that projected revenue is not keeping pace with projected expenditure
growth, and that considerations for future operational adjustments and prioritization of scarce resources
are required.
The General Fund receives tax revenues, fees and service charges, and receipts not allocated by law or
contractual agreement to other funds. Expenditures of this fund include operating expenses traditionally
associated with governments such as city administration, legal oversight, development services, public
works maintenance, and public safety. Overall, the General Fund accounts for and represents the primary
operational activities of the City and is the focus for long-term planning. Other funds have specific purposes
and are therefore not included in this forecast. To maintain clarity in the City's main operational functions,
a summary-level forecast for these other funds is now included separately, following the General Fund
forecast, in accordance with GFOA requirements.
General Fund Revenue Assumptions
Property Taxes
A number of Property Tax accounts make up the broadly termed ‘Property Tax Revenue’ but only two of
the taxes make up the majority of the revenue. The 1 percent ad valorem tax (Secured Property Tax)
typically accounts for 60-65 percent, while Property Tax In-Lieu-of-VLF accounts for about 25 percent of
the revenue. Property-Tax-In-Lieu-of VLF is budgeted conservatively as payments are estimates based on
prior year information rather than current year growth. If the prior year’s estimates were low, a positive true-
up payment is paid with the following year’s revenues – and a negative true-up if payments were too high.
Therefore, In-Lieu Property Tax Revenue growth trends loosely mirror Secured Property Tax revenue
growth, with variation caused by the true-ups. Property Transfer Tax and Supplemental Tax receipts will
fluctuate with housing sales as Supplemental Tax revenue comes from mid-year assessed valuation
increases, and Transfer Tax revenues from the preparation of document fees. Increases and decreases in
these revenues indicate growth in Secured Property Tax the following year. Santa Clara County provides
the City with updated assessment roll information on a monthly basis, which is used to further refine the
estimate throughout the year.
An ad valorem 1 percent tax based on a property owner’s taxable value – is slow to react to economic
changes. This is due to the time period in which property assessment values are set, to when the tax
payments are made about a year later. It takes a significant downturn trend to occur countywide before a
property’s assessment value is reassessed lower. Hence, the City’s property tax revenue stream is not
impacted until at minimum a year later, and often two. This delay also works in reverse with revenues taking
longer to reflect economic recovery.
At the same time, related property tax revenues such as Transfer Tax and Supplemental Tax are
immediately reactive to economic shifts and can differ significantly year to year. This combination of slow
and fast reactions helps to mitigate Property Tax revenue swings and allows for some lead time to prepare
for revenue decreases.
Though, to be prudent, Property Tax forecast projections are based on broader economic data as Saratoga
data is heavily weighted toward higher-end homes that may not accurately reflect the wider economic view
for the future of property values. That said, the Saratoga housing market is strong as buyers fight for a small
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pool of inventory for recently remodeled homes in the City’s top-rated school districts. While this
phenomenon is expected to slow, the property tax base will increase based on past purchases.
With these recent valuation gains, ownership changes will noticeably increase the taxable value, and any
new construction and remodeling improvements will also increase a home’s value. These will contribute to
property assessment increases during the upcoming years as the economy settles.
Since the end of the recession in 2012, rapid property tax growth resulted in excess educational revenue
augmentation funds (ERAF) distributions to Santa Clara County cities, and in turn, to revenue growth. This
revenue stream has been unpredictable in the past, is dependent on schools and community colleges
receiving more funding than needed to meet their general fund obligations. Recently the state has
attempted to claw back excess ARF funds, and Santa Clara County has filed suit as a result.
Although excess ERAF is included in the budget and future forecast years, it has been called out as a
potential risk that may change in the future. A tentative trial date for the Excess ERAF litigation is set for
September 30, 2025. The State Controller’s Office (SCO) has not yet begun a property tax audit of Santa
Clara County, as it is currently auditing San Francisco; the earliest our county may be audited is late 2025
or early 2026. The financial risk to the City will depend on the results of the Santa Clara County audit, but
based on Marin County’s recent audit findings, the estimated risk is 20%.
Sales Tax
Sales Tax revenue distributions from the State are impacted by economic conditions and more quickly
reflect economic trends. This revenue is distributed in several ways, with estimated payments, true-ups,
and allocation corrections, making revenue projections unreliable. And because the City’s small revenue
base can unexpectedly fluctuate by more than 10 percent year to year, the City depends upon our Sales
Tax Consultants to closely monitor receipts and provide us with reasonable estimates. Sales tax projections
for 2025-26 are down slightly with declines in fuel and food services, reflecting changes in consumer
spending.
Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
Saratoga’s TOT reacts quickly to economic changes, as illustrated in the 2008 economic downturn and the
2021 pandemic, where revenues in this category contracted suddenly and sharply. The pandemic shut
down travel overnight, and all jurisdictions experienced an immediate loss of TOT revenue. As public health
mandates eased, TOT rebounded, with domestic travel and staycations fueling the early recovery. TOT
recovered in 2021-22, and the TOT forecasts assume relatively flat growth based on recent trends.
Business License Tax
Business License Tax revenue comprises two revenue streams: 1) the actual license portion and 2) for
contractors, a supplemental tax that is a percentage of any building permit’s valuation they pull during the
year. The license portion of the Business License Tax can fluctuate by 10 percent year over year with
normal business growth and decline. Still, over the long term, Business License Fee revenue typically holds
steady. The license fee applies to a fixed universe of retail and out-of-town businesses, meaning that any
growth is from home-based businesses. 2025-26 and future year business license forecasts assume
relatively flat growth.
The Supplemental Business License Tax portion has different trends as revenues depend not only on the
building level but also on the type and value of building permits. While valuations continue to increase as
the cost of building increases, projections reflect small increases with the expectation that construction
activity will slow down from the high of 2022-23 as construction cost rose significantly.
Construction Tax
This revenue represents a City enacted tax charged on additional square footage as part of a building
permit fee. At this point, building activity is expected to remain steady in 2025-26.
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Franchise & Encroachment Fees
Franchise Fees are an alternative to Business License Taxes for those businesses exempt from the tax,
including utilities (PG&E and San Jose Water Company), and cable providers. Fees and charges are levied
by the City on a variety of utilities. Gas, electric, and water utility franchise fees are unpredictable yearly as
consumption habits fluctuate. The forecast includes an assumed growth rate equal to 2 percent. The largest
revenue source in this category is from solid waste for the city's various state-mandated environmental
programs. A recent study justified the continuation of solid waste revenue, and $1.5 million is included in
the budget and future years forecast.
Development Revenues
The projected growth rate for Community Development revenues is low, with the unknown impact of return-
to-office impacts on remodels and the impact of inflation and stock market volatility on home investments.
Forecast projections will change as uncertain economic impacts settle out. For now, each of the planning
and building revenues is assessed individually, with most projections ranging from 0 percent to 4 percent
annual growth. Recent trends in building activities have increased planning and building revenue, which
now accounts for about 20 percent of general fund revenues.
The 2022 Comprehensive Cost of Services (User Fee) Study identified approximately $0.8 million in
General Fund subsidy of fee services. In response, the City Council established an updated cost recovery
target for building services at 90 percent and planning at 75 percent in acknowledgment that some fees
require a subsidy to advance the City’s policy objectives for protecting life, property, and environment. Fees
increased effectively on January 1, 2024, and again in July 1, 2024 to incorporate City Council’s updated
direction on cost recovery. The forecast assumes future year increases to offset the City’s personnel cost
and overhead costs increase, including the cost-of-living adjustments and benefit cost increases contained
in negotiated Memoranda of Understanding.
Rental Income
Cell tower lease revenue has been flat with the consolidation of cell phone service providers over the last
five years. Effective October 1, 2023, expanded its existing partnership with Los Gatos Saratoga Recreation
(LGS Rec) for recreation programs to include facility rentals. The agreement provides the City a net cost
savings through the reduction of 1.0 full-time equivalent personnel by attrition. The agreement is in place
for two years at which time the City confirmed the cost benefit of the expanded partnership.
Interest Income
The City invests available funds in the Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) and CalTRUST investment
pools. Annual yields in both investment pools have steadily increased as federal monetary policy boosted
interest rates paid on fixed income securities. The 2025-26 budget includes a $1.3 million in interest income
which substantially offsets impacts of the forecast structural deficit. The forecast continues to rely on
favorable interest rates in the investment portfolio considering their investment return lag the market by
several months. Interest income will decline if interest rates are lowered, and when the City draws down on
the American Rescue Plan Act’s State and Local Government Fiscal Recovery Fund allocation to Saratoga,
$4 million. The funds are appropriated for capital projects and must be fully utilized by December 2026.
GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURE ASSUMPTIONS
Salary
Forecasted salary & benefit expenditures reflect maximum MOU increases for current staff levels,
promotional increases, and a zero-vacancy factor, whereas prior year amounts are actual costs. The impact
of this assumption is that the forecast years are typically much higher than actuals. Another consideration
in salary projections is the anticipated turnover of a large number of long-term staff expected to retire over
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the next five years. Service model changes and tighter restrictions on overtime and temporary help could
potentially help contain salary increases.
Benefits
The majority of employee benefit costs arise from the City’s retirement plan contract with the California
Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS). For 2025-26, the City’s contribution rates range from
8.3 to 13.4 percent of eligible salary, depending on the employee’s benefit plan. The second largest benefit
cost is the City’s contribution to medical premiums which are capped by contract. Miscellaneous benefits
are also provided based on the employee’s group however the costs of those benefits are less material.
Pension Unfunded Accrued Liability
In 2014, CalPERS separated the “Normal Cost” for current year pension costs from the prior year’s liability,
known as the “Unfunded Accrued Liability” (UAL). The Normal Cost is a rate applied on the current payroll
and represents the minimum required cost to provide the CalPERS pension benefit.
Additional payments to the UAL allow agencies to reduce pension liabilities accrued due to CalPERS
investment and assumption changes over a long-term payment plan. Similar to making additional payments
on a home mortgage, this will result in lower overall costs due to the time factor of interest costs. Saratoga’s
City Council established a policy to make additional UAL payments to help reduce the outstanding liability,
reduce the overall cost, and stabilize future annual payments.
The City decision to reduce the UAL resulted in an additional UAL payment of $500,000, above the
minimum required payment of $1 million for 2025-26. Forecast for future years assumes $1M total pension
contributions (combined minimum and additional UAL payments).
Operating Expenditures
General operating expenses include costs for ongoing operations such as dues, utilities, supplies,
materials, and fees. The level of service and available budget determine the amount of materials and
supplies, fees, contract services, and consultants available with operating expenditures held to maintain
services. Much of the spending in this category is subject to inflationary pressures and are forecast to
increase in future years. 2025-26 budget assumes small savings compared to the prior year as there are
no election fees and credit card processing will now be paid by the customer. These two items resulted in
about $180,000 in savings, which is partially offset by increased utility costs.
Public Safety
The largest City contract is the Sherriff’s service contract. Annual increases are either 1) the change in
personnel costs or 2) CPI plus 2 percent, whichever is less. The agreement provides service level flexibility,
allowing for service or hour increases or decreases each year. The standard service level is brought forward
for the forecast with an estimated increase of 6 percent. The current agreement in place is a two-year
extension that ends in June 2026 and is subject to potential changes in the future.
Community Grants
Future year grants grow slightly higher to reflect the Council’s practice of gradually increasing support over
time as costs to provide services increase and additional community grant funding requests are received.
Internal Service Funds (ISF)
ISF functions growth factors vary by fund driven primarily by contract services outside the City's direct
control. These funds have stable funding charges that are adequate to improve resource management
funding, transparency, and management over a 20-year long-term projection. Liability Risk premiums are
escalating quickly over the next few years as the insurance marketplace hardens, with providers exiting the
market making it difficult to obtain competitive pricing. Workers Comp is also increasing but at a slower
pace. Vehicle Maintenance, IT Services, and Building Maintenance ISF programs also grow yearly due to
ongoing labor and service level cost increases. Replacement ISF programs include a Vehicle & Equipment
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replacement program, a Facility Furniture, Fixture, & Equipment (FFE) program, and a more comprehensive
IT Replacement program.
GENERAL FUND FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY
Overall, the City’s General Fund forecast projections illustrate that revenues are not keeping pace with
expenditures. Operational reductions, or possibly structural changes will be needed to align revenue and
expenditure growth in future years.
Further, changes in technology and communication have increased resident expectations, and because of
this, the City’s goal to provide a high-level of services has expanded at a pace over the last decade that is
exceeding funding resources currently available to the City, and under the forecast projections, not
attainable in the future.
Additionally, the bigger picture of maintaining city infrastructure into the future puts another level of funding
needs on the table that cannot be addressed through current revenue sources. Staff has developed and
implemented some infrastructure maintenance funding through the budget process for streets, parks, and
facility infrastructure, but much more needs to be done to create a comprehensive business plan to
adequately address the full breadth of city infrastructure. As time and resources allow, infrastructure
replacement master plans will be developed for categories including streets, parking lots, streetlights, signal
lights, storm drains, and city facilities.
While the development of citywide infrastructure Master Plans and potential funding sources are expected
to take decades, it is on City management’s radar. Current practice has some revenues dedicated to Capital
Improvement Programs, such as pavement management. Additionally, the City uses net revenue to add to
reserves established by City Council for future capital use.
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Employee Compensation
EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION
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Employee Compensation
PERSONNEL COSTS
The City of Saratoga’s total salary and benefit expenditures include labor increases from cost-of-living-
adjustments (COLA), employee step increases, pension cost increases, fringe benefit cost increases, and
additional payments to the City’s unfunded pension liability. While the City is the fiduciary agent for the
West Valley Stormwater Authority – formerly West Valley Clean Water Program - their budget is not
included in the City’s budgetary information as the City only assists them with their financial transactions.
2025-26 NOTABLE CHANGES
The 2025-26 budget includes a modest increase in full-time equivalent personnel (FTEs) compared to the
previous year. Specifically, there is a budgeted 0.05 FTE increase each for the Administrative Analyst
position in Public Works and the Human Resources Analyst position. These adjustments will enable both
analysts to take on expanded responsibilities-such as enhanced contract administration and additional
support for human resources functions-helping to meet the growing needs of their respective departments.
STAFFING STRATEGY
Saratoga’s fiscal health has benefited from a staffing strategy with three components: regular benefited
employees, temporary un-benefited employees, and contract services to provide services responsive to
community needs.
Contract Services
The strategy provides the City with flexibility to meet fluctuating demand for services while ensuring stability
in core public services such as planning and public works. Contract services are typically utilized for
landscape maintenance, janitorial, development and building, and attorney services.
The City also finds that the contract arrangement with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office provides a
cost-effective service with a higher level of police services than could be attained by in-house City-funded
resources. Dedicated Sheriff Deputies and staff are assigned to the City, although personnel and services
can easily adjust as circumstances warrant. This beneficial arrangement provides for expertise in
management, administrative, technical, and operational duties, as well as equipment, and communication
resources integrated into the smaller city service level on a day-to-day basis.
PERSONNEL BUDGETING
Labor cost projections are prepared using known data on current employees, current MOU provisions, and
California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), medical, dental, vision, long-term disability,
and life insurance premiums. In some years, these projections are predictable, and in others there is
fluctuation, such as when MOUs expire, and new MOU provisions have not yet been finalized. The City
does not use a vacancy factor in salary projections as typically there is very little turnover due to successful
retention strategies. When there is turnover or retirements, most positions require temporary backfill or a
quick recruitment process due to the City’s limited staffing model. With strong retention, the City has many
long-term staff that are at the top salary step, but that ratio is expected to change as long-term staff are
beginning to age out of the City’s workforce in growing numbers.
A payroll expense buffer is built into budgeted salary to fund unplanned cost impacts that may occur during
the fiscal year, such as turnover or disability backfill, PTO payouts, excess overtime, and to fund the
Compensated Absences Reserve in compliance with policy, if needed at year-end.
Health and dental insurance benefits are calculated at the employee’s current coverage status under their
chosen health insurance plan to provide accuracy in budgeted benefit costs. The difference in premiums
between Single, Plus One, and Family rate is significant and tracked closely. Other insurance benefit
CITY OF SARATOGA, CALIFORNIA
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coverage costs are stable and not based on coverage status. Because an employee’s insurance coverage
status may change during the course of the year, there is a slight buffer built into budgeted benefit costs.
Adopted salary and benefit schedules are available online at:
https://www.saratoga.ca.us/177/Salary-Benefits
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Government Code Section 3505, commonly referred to as the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act (MMBA) governs
the City’s relationship with all employees. The MMBA authorizes creation of collective bargaining units
(employee unions or associations) and requires the City to “meet-and-confer” over “…wages, hours, and
other terms and conditions of employment.”
Most regular employees are represented by one of two bargaining units: 1) the Saratoga Employees
Association (SEA) with currently 25 benefited full and part-time employees, and 2) the United Brotherhood
of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local Union No 2236 (UNION) for the 13 Public Work’s Corporation
Yard staff. 15 City employees, primarily management, are classified as unrepresented. The City Manager,
while also unrepresented, has a negotiated contract. Hourly (non-benefited, temporary) staff are not
represented and only receive benefits prescribed by law such as the Affordable Care Act and State paid
time off requirements for part-time employees.
Salaries and benefits for regular employees are enumerated in two bargaining unit Memoranda of
Understanding (MOUs). Unrepresented employees receive substantially similar benefits with several
exceptions as outlined in City Council Resolution. Employee salaries are posted to the City’s website
incompliance with State law regarding publicly available pay schedules. Terms of employment, including
the above-mentioned contracts, are available online at: https://www.saratoga.ca.us/178/Employee-Terms-
of-Employment
COMPENSATION
Salaries are adjusted annually as defined by the MOUs or resolution, and typically provide cost-of-living
adjustments (COLA) based on the annual average for the 12-month period running from January 1 to
December 31 of the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, “All Urban Consumers (CPI-U)”
for the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose region. Per State law, the City Manager’s annual cost of living
adjustment increase is capped at the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) rather than the US
Bureau of Labor Statistics.
PENSION BENEFITS
Saratoga’s benefited employees are enrolled in one of three pension benefits, all based on date of hire and
State law. The City pays a variable annual cost as a percentage of payroll for active employees plus a flat
unfunded liability cost. Employees pay a fixed contribution to the pension benefit, based on their tier,
ranging from 7.0 percent to 8.25 percent. City employees enrolled in a CalPERS pension are in what
CalPERS describes as a “full formula” plan and are not covered by Social Security. Medicare participation
is required for all employees hired after March 31, 1986.
• Tier 1 employees were hired before May 12, 2012 and receive the “2.0% @ 55” benefit. The benefit
provides 2 percent of the employee’s highest 12-month eligible compensation for each year of service
to the City of Saratoga when the employee is age 55. The benefit increases annually to a maximum of
2.418 percent for each year of service if the employee retires at 63. The 2% @ 55 benefit schedule is
available at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/docs/forms-publications/benefit-factors-local-misc-2-at-55.pdf
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• Tier 2 employees are those hired on or after May 12, 2012 and were an active employee for another
CalPERS agency before May 12, 2012, receive the “2.0% @ 60” benefit. The benefit provides 2 percent
of the employee’s highest 36-month eligible compensation for each year of service to the City of
Saratoga when the employee is age 60. The benefit increases annually to a maximum of 2.418 percent
for each year of service if the employee retires at 63. The 2% @ 60 benefit schedule is available at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/docs/forms-publications/benefit-factors-local-misc-2-at-60.pdf
• Tier 3 employees receive the “2.0% @ 62” benefit formula and are those hired after January 1, 2013
and otherwise ineligible for Tier 2 benefits. Tier 3 employees are also referred to as “PEPRA” after the
Public Employee’s Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) which mandated the creation of “2.0% @ 62”
benefit for all CalPERS employers. The benefit provides 2 percent of the employee’s highest 36-month
eligible compensation for each year of service to the City of Saratoga when the employee is age 62.
The benefit increases annually to 2.418 percent for each year of service if the employee retires at 67.
Unlike Tier 1 and Tier 2, Tier 3 pension benefit is capped at approximately $162,000. The 2% @ 62
benefit schedule is available at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/docs/forms-publications/benefit-factors-local-misc-2-at-62.pdf
City of Saratoga Council Members have the option to join the City’s CalPERS pension plan, with all five
members currently electing to do so. Public safety services are contracted through Santa Clara County
Sheriff’s Office, meaning all Sheriff Office personnel belong to the County’s pension account and their
benefit costs are paid by the County. The County recovers salary and benefit costs through the contractual
service fees.
Pension Benefit Costs
The City’s CalPERS Contribution payments are comprised of employee and employer contributions. The
Employee Contribution Rates are under the 2% @55, and the 2% @60 benefit plans is constant at 7
percent. Under the PEPRA 2% @62 plan rate, the Employee Contribution Rates are determined each year
through an actuarial valuation, with the employee responsible for approximately 50 percent of the cost. The
following chart shows a history of Saratoga’s contribution rates and the number of active employees
enrolled in the various pension benefit Tiers.
(Rate is Percentage of Eligible Payroll)
Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3
2.0% @ 55 2.0% @ 60 2.0% @ 62
Fiscal Year
UAL
Minimum
Payment
Headcount City
Contrib. Headcount City
Contrib. Headcount City
Contrib.
101,604 41 9.56% 9 7.81% 7 6.93%
2017-18 183,002 38 9.60% 10 7.85% 10 6.91%
2018-19 286,594 37 10.15% 8 8.35% 13 7.27%
2019-20 416,921 36 10.87% 8 8.67% 14 7.07%
2020-21 502,729 35 11.75% 7 9.44% 16 7.87%
2021-22 598,945 32 11.60% 7 9.30% 19 7.73%
2022-23 725,952 29 11.60% 8 9.30% 21 7.70%
2023-24 605,938 27 13.26% 9 10.87% 26 8.00%
2024-25 790,564 24 13.31% 7 10.93% 28 8.18%
2025-26 1,033,492 24 13.38% 5 10.97% 30 8.27%
Note: Vacant headcount reported as Tier 3
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Pension Costs Drivers
Employer rates are based on actuarial studies performed as of June 30th using several assumptions
including but not limited to investment return assumptions, rate smoothing policies, and demographics.
Various agency-based factors such as covered payroll changes including increases and decreases in
employee headcount or wages. A guide to CalPERS funding is available at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/page/about/organization/facts-at-a-glance/pension-buck
CalPERS actuarial assumptions are established based on the concept that the value of its stock, bonds
and other holdings generate income over an employee’s lifetime to fund the majority of the pension costs.
In the early 1990s, with record high interest rates bringing in large returns, the actuarial Investment Rate of
Return (IRR) rate had risen to a high of 8.75 percent. By 2003, CalPERS had adjusted the income growth
rate down to 7.75 percent as the longer-term annualized IRR was only slightly higher. After the economic
downturn began in 2008, returns heavily diminished for many of the following fiscal years and CalPERS
staff repeatedly requested the IRR be adjusted further downward. In 2012, the CalPERS Board agreed to
reduce the IRR to 7.5 percent, to be phased in over two years.
This IRR change impacted Miscellaneous Employer Contribution Rates by increases of around 1 percent,
and up to 2 percent of payroll while most Public Safety Plan’s Employer Contribution Rate increased by 3
percent of payroll. Saratoga’s rate increase was 0.6 percent in 2013-14, and another 0.73 percent in 2014-
15. The increases were lower than most other cities due to having stayed with the original 2% @ 55 benefit
plan, while some agencies increased their benefits to 2.5 or 2.7% at 55 before the Great Recession.
Rate Smoothing Policies
The severity of the economic downturn that began in 2008 severely impacted CalPERS portfolio’s actuarial
value of assets, which in turn prompted actuarial staff to adjust their existing methodology. Initially the
remedy was a widening of the corridor through a smoothing policy that spread investment return impacts
over a rolling 15-year period, and experience gains and losses over a rolling 30-year period. This
methodology led to stabilized rates, but CalPERS staff quickly came to understand this policy would
understate risk due to the slow progress to full funding. The impact from rolling the smoothing and
amortization periods would lead to unknown rate peaks and a lack of transparency.
With Governmental Accounting Standards Board’s issuance of a new accounting standard that required 1)
the reporting of actual pension liability, not just pension funding, and 2) favored closed periods without
smoothing, CalPERS approved a further change in their amortization and smoothing policy in April of 2013.
This new policy had employers paying for annual gains and losses over a fixed 30-year period, with the
increases or decreases in the direct rate spread over a 5-year period – the rates would then plateau for
twenty years, and then ramp back down over the final 5 years.
This methodology was intended to improve the funded status in the long term and significantly reduce the
probability of employer contribution rates increasing by more than 5 percent of payroll in a single year. In
addition, CalPERS separated the pension costs for current year liabilities (called the normal cost) from the
actuarial assumption changes and prior year liabilities, (known as the UAL). This change was to provide
better rate stability, and a payment option for cities.
However, with the severe devaluing of CalPERS investments during the recession, CalPERS actuarial staff
continued to state the IRR decrease was insufficient and asked for a further decrease to 7.25 percent. In
2015-16, the CalPERS Board agreed to lower the rate over a long-term plan that would allow very small
decreases only in positive investment years. In FY 2016/17, CalPERS staff convinced the Board that this
slowly decreasing IRR Rate plan was not enough to ensure CalPERS would remain sustainable.
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Subsequently, the Board agreed to lower the rate applied to new fiscal year UAL bases to 7 percent over a
three-step phase-in (7.375 percent, 7.25 percent, and 7.0 percent), with each step having a five-year phase
in period – meaning the total phase in period would take seven years. The Board understood that the
impact of the IRR change would be both financially substantial and detrimental to CalPERS agencies and
offered this incremental change plan so agencies would have time to adjust to the increases. The downside
to this phase-in policy is that the ramp-up period postpones payment and thereby incurs negative
amortization, resulting in increased cost over the long-term. CalPERS also conceded that the IRR rate
would need to continue to be decreased, down to 6.5 percent in the future. The result was that after the 7
percent phase-in is complete, CalPERS plans to make small, incremental decreases only in positive
investment years to reduce financial impacts. The current discount rate is 6.8 percent. More information
about CalPERS’ smoothing policies are available at https://www.calpers.ca.gov/docs/actuarial-
amortization-policy.pdf
In 2017-18, CalPERS announced another actuarial modification. The Board agreed that going forward, the
annual Experience Study gains and losses would no longer be factored in over 30 years with a five-year
phase-in. Their new plan factored in all new future year gains and losses over 20 years, with a five-year
phase-in period. Together, these actions are expected to bring the pension plans up to a safe and
sustainable funding level within a shorter time frame. CalPERS updated their Experience Study in 2021
and is accessible at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/docs/forms-publications/calpers-experience-study-2021.pdf
Actuarial Assumptions
As part of CalPERS’ ongoing actuarial analysis, the various demographic assumptions are reassessed on
a rotating basis. A review was conducted in 2013 and again in 2016 that revealed mortality, retirement age,
-7.2%-6.1%
3.7%
16.6%
12.3%
11.8%
19.1%
-5.1%
-24.0%
13.3%
21.7%
0.1%
13.2%
18.4%
2.4%
1.6%
11.2%8.6%
6.7%4.7%
21.3%
-6.1%
5.8%
9.3%11.6%
FY
0
1
FY
0
2
FY
0
3
FY
0
4
FY
0
5
FY
0
6
FY
0
7
FY
0
8
FY
0
9
FY
1
0
FY
1
1
FY
1
2
FY
1
3
FY
1
4
FY
1
5
FY
1
6
FY
1
7
FY
1
8
FY
1
9
FY
2
0
FY
2
1
FY
2
2
FY
2
3
FY
2
4
FY
2
5
CalPERS Historical Annual Investment Returns
Annual Investment Return
6.8% Discount Rate
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Employee Compensation
and wage increase factors changed considerably, thereby impacting benefit costs. CalPERS’ standard
practice is to amortize the Assumption Changes over 20 years rather than the 30 years they had used for
investment impacts. As it stands now with the recent modification, all future year impacts will be amortized
over 20 years.
Even though the economic downturn and demographic updates have negatively impacted pension rates,
the “Miscellaneous 2% at 55 Risk Pool” suffered less because the plan design was based on actuarially
sound principles and experience data. Whereas the enhanced plans (2.5% @ 55, 2.7% @ 55 for
miscellaneous, 3% @ 50 or 55 for Public Safety) were based on short-term assumptions that used
estimated – not realized factors. The higher benefit plans ultimately proved to be fiscally unsustainable, and
as a result, will experience much larger PERS rate increases in the coming years. Over time, all CalPERS
defined contribution plans other than the new PEPRA plans will be phased out as “Classic” employees
leave the workforce.
With the new amortization and smoothing policies and ever-changing actuarial assumptions, Saratoga’s
pension costs will continue to increase in the upcoming years. However, because the City took proactive
measures to pay a large portion of the Unfunded Accrued Liability and has continued to pay more than the
annual required contribution UAL payment each year, the City’s susceptibility to rate volatility is significantly
decreased, and the overall cost reduced. This fiscally responsible approach allows the City to better plan
for and endure economic impacts during inevitable future economic downturns and has contributed toward
the City’s efforts to operate under a financially sustainable strategy.
The actuarial valuation reports for all public agencies participating in CalPERS area available online at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/page/employers/actuarial-resources/public-agency-actuarial-valuation-reports
Note: Search “Saratoga City” in the name field and click the plus sign to the left of the Employer ID Number to open the list of available
reports. Reports are issued once per year in the August timeframe and lag approximately 12 full months from the asset and liability
measurement date. For example, the valuation report dated July 2022 uses a measurement date of June 30, 2021. Pension costs
and unfunded pension liabilities resulting from the June 30, 2021 valuation date impact City costs beginning July 1, 2023; 24 months
following the measurement date.
Summary of Cost Containment Measures
• Effective with the 2011 MOUs, employees began paying the full 7 percent CalPERS employee
contribution from their wages.
• Effective May 12, 2012, Tier II was implemented for new employees.
• Effective January 1, 2013, all new CalPERS members were assigned to the PEPRA pension plan.
• Annual savings equals the total difference between what a Tier I pension factor would cost for employees
less the actual cost incurred for Tier II and PEPRA employee pension costs.
• The City makes additional payments to the Unfunded Accrued Liability (UAL) as funds are available.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION EMPLOYER MATCH
Under the MOUs effective July 1, 2023, the City provides employees with a $50 per month contribution to
an IRS Section 457 deferred compensation plan, plus an additional match contribution, up to $100 per
month, for a total employer contribution of $150 to their retirement savings plan, in addition to their pension.
For at-will employees (Directors and City Manager) the City provides a match contribution up to $250 per
month.
CAFETERIA PLAN AND MEDICAL BENEFITS
The City offers employees a Cafeteria Plan allowance to purchase or opt out of purchasing medical
insurance for themselves and their dependents. Saratoga contracts with the CalPERS medical insurance
pool as authorized in the Public Employees’ Medical and Hospital Care Act (PEMHCA), which offers a
variety of different HMO and PPO medical options. As a contract agency through PEMHCA, the City is
required to make a minimum contribution (referred to as the PEMHCA minimum) for active and retired
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employees to purchase medical insurance through PEMHCA. More information about CalPERS medical
insurance plan options is available online at:
https://www.calpers.ca.gov/page/active-members/health-benefits/plans-and-rates
Although CalPERS has substantial negotiating powers, medical insurance premiums typically continue to
increase each year. In 2015, MOU negotiations resulted in a change to the medical insurance benefits from
employer paid coverage to a base contribution of $800 for Single Employees, $1600 for Employee + One
plans, and $2,080 for Employee + Family plans, beginning calendar year 2016. Under the MOU, the City’s
base increases by 50 percent of the average medical premium increase each future year, and employees
pay the remainder of the insurance premium.
Section 22892 of the Public Employees’ Medical and Hospital Care Act (PEMHCA), establishes a minimum
monthly employer premium contribution assessed on participating agencies who do not provide retiree
health insurance but have City retirees that choose to continue their participation in CalPERS health plans.
The employer contribution is adjusted annually by the board to reflect changes in the medical care
component of the CPI-U. The minimum employer annual contribution is $1,896 for calendar year 2025. The
City includes this amount in the operating budget as an ongoing retiree cost, which currently amounts to
approximately $40,000 per year for an estimated 20 to 22 participating retirees next fiscal year. The table
below shows City contributions for unrepresented staff for reference.
Effective
January
1st
Annualized Saratoga Cafeteria Plan Contributions
with Kaiser Permanente Premiums for Reference
Employee Only Employee + 1 Employee +
2/More
City Cap Kaiser City Cap Kaiser City Cap Kaiser
2017 9,684 8,801 19,368 17,601 25,176 22,882
2018 9,792 9,358 19,584 18,717 25,464 24,332
2019 9,792 9,219 19,584 18,438 25,464 23,969
2020 10,044 9,222 20,076 18,444 26,112 23,977
2021 10,428 9,764 20,868 19,527 27,120 25,386
2022 10,644 10,285 21,288 20,569 27,672 26,740
2023 11,013 10,965 22,029 21,930 28,638 28,509
2024 11,625 12,257 23,262 24,514 30,246 31,868
2025 11,908 13,355 23,819 26,710 30,964 34,722
2026 12,265 14,026 24,534 28,053 31,893 36,468
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Summary of Cost Containment Measures
Medical insurance is the second largest benefit cost. The City has implemented various cost containment
measures over the past decade to address the impacts of premium increases. Like many other service
costs, from 2024 to 2025, premium increases for the most popular plan, Kaiser, is 9 percent year-over-year.
Previous year increases have been anywhere from 50 to 75 percent lower.
The City's most recent agreement with the largest employee group and the benefits plan provided to the
unrepresented employees caps the year-over-year increase in the employer's contribution to medical at the
cost-of-living adjustment. Benefit costs beyond 2025 for the largest employee group are subject to future
negotiations.
OTHER WELLNESS BENEFITS
The City contracts for its dental insurance and with Principal for Life and Disability (AD&D) Insurance.
Dental insurance premiums and Life and AD&D premiums are paid 100 percent by the City. Employees
may elect to enhance their AD&D coverage through the group plan, at their own cost.
Currently, the City self-funds short-term disability coverage for 75 percent of wages after an employee’s
paid time-off is exhausted, up until long-term coverage activates at six months. Employees have the option
to enhance their long-term disability and life insurance plans, and to obtain vision care coverage through a
group plan, again at their own cost.
OVERALL EMPLOYEE COMPENSATION SUMMARY
In summary, personnel costs are comprised of salaries for full and part-time personnel, inclusive of holidays
and paid time off and benefits which includes health, life and disability insurances, and retirement
contributions. Annual wage increases and benefit adjustments are negotiated under each bargaining unit’s
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
https://www.saratoga.ca.us/178/Employee-Terms-of-Employment
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GLOSSARY
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Acronyms and Abbreviations
Following is a list of acronyms common to local government terminology:
AB Assembly Bill
ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments
ACFR Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
ADA American Disabilities Act
ARPA American Rescue Plan Act
ARS Automated Reporting System
BMP Below Market Price (Housing)
CalPERS California Public Employee’s Retirement System
CARES Act Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act
CDBG Community Development Block Grant
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CERT Community Emergency Response Team
CFD Community Facility District
CIP Capital Improvement Program
COP Certificates of Participation
CPI Consumer Price Index
CSMFO California Society of Municipal Finance Officers
CY Current Year
DART Disaster Aid Response Team
DOJ Department of Justice
EOC Emergency Operations Center
ERAF Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FFE Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (IS)
FTE Full-Time Equivalent (2080 annual work hours)
FY Fiscal Year
GAAP General Accepted Accounting Principals
GASB Governmental Accounting Standards Board
GFOA Government Finance Officers Association
GIS Geographical Information System
G.O. General Obligation (Bond)
HAZMAT Hazardous Materials
HHW Household Hazardous Waste
HUD Housing & Urban Development
HVAC Heating/Ventilation Air Conditioning
ISF Internal Service Fund
IT Information Technology
JPA Joint Powers Authority
LAIF Local Agency Investment Fund
LLD Landscape and Lighting District
LT Long-Term (as in Long-Term Notes Receivable)
MF Major Fund
MIS Management Information Systems
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
MVLF Motor Vehicle in Lieu Fee (See also VLF)
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
OCJP Office of Criminal Justice Planning
OEM Office of Emergency Manufacturer
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OES Office of Emergency Services
PC Personal Computer
PCI Pavement Condition Index
PERS Public Employees Retirement System
POA Police Officers Association
PW Public Works Department
PY Prior Year
RDA Redevelopment Agency
ROW Right-of-Way
SB Senate Bill
SCC Santa Clara County
SLESF Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Fund Grant
SLFRF State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
TDA Transportation Development Act
TEA Tax Equity Allocation
TFCA Transportation Fund for Clean Air
TOT Transient Occupancy Tax
VLF Motor Vehicles In Lieu Fee (see also MVLF)
VTA Valley Transportation Agency
WVCWP West Valley Clean Water Program
WVSD West Valley Sanitation District
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TERMS
Accounting System - The set of records and procedures that are used to record, classify, and report
information on the financial status and operations of the City.
Accrual Basis Accounting –An accounting method in which transactions are recognized at the time they
are incurred, regardless of the timing of related cash receipt and/or disbursement.
Ad Valorem Taxes - Latin for “in proportion to the value.” This classification refers to real and personal
property taxes levied on the basis of the property’s value. These rates are applied to the secured,
unsecured, supplemental, and other miscellaneous tax rolls. General Obligation (G.O.) Bond assessments
are also included in this classification.
Adoption – A formal determination by the City Council, which approves an action, such as the Budget
Adoption sets the spending limits for the fiscal year. Some adoptions, such as the City's budget, are adopted
by Council resolution.
Agency Fund – A fund used to account for assets held by the City in the capacity of Fiscal Agent for
individuals, organizations, or other governmental entities.
ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) – Federal legislation enacted in 2021 to address the economic and
social impacts of the of 2020 Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Act created the Coronavirus State
and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) which provides state, local, and Tribal governments direct
allocations disbursed in two tranches: July 2021 and July 2022. Use of the funds is overseen by the United
Stated Department of Treasury and requires annual reporting to disclose their uses. Saratoga received
$7.2 million in funding and allocated the funds to the capital improvement program for needed regional
clean water infrastructure improvements in 2021-22.
Amortization - The gradual elimination of an asset or liability, such as a bond premium, over a specified
period of time.
Annual Budget - A budget applicable to a single fiscal year.
Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) - The official financial report of the City. The ACFR
includes an audit opinion as well as basic financial statements and supporting schedules necessary to
demonstrate compliance with finance-related legal and contractual provisions.
Appropriation - An authorization made by the City Council, which permits officials to incur obligations
against and to make expenditures of government resources. Appropriations are typically granted for a one-
year period.
Assessed Valuation - A value established for real property for use as a basis in levying property taxes.
For all agencies in the State of California, the County for the secured and unsecured property tax rolls
establishes assessed value; the utility property tax roll is valued by the State Board of Equalization. Under
Article XIII of the State Constitution (Proposition 13 adopted by the voters on June 6, 1978), properties are
assessed at 100 percent of full value. Proposition 13 also modified the value of real taxable property for
fiscal 1979 by rolling back values to fiscal 1976 levels. From this base of assessment, subsequent annual
increases in valuation are limited to a maximum of 2 percent. However, increases to full value are allowed
for property improvements or upon change of ownership. Personal property is excluded from these
limitations and is subject to annual reappraisal.
Assessment Fund –A fund used to account for special levies made against certain properties to defray
part or all of the costs of a specific improvement or service deemed to primarily benefit those parties.
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Audit - Prepared by an independent Certified Public Accountant (CPA), the primary objective of an audit is
to determine if the City's Financial Statements present fairly the City's financial position and results of
operations in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. In conjunction with their
performance of an audit, it is customary for an independent auditor to issue a Management Letter stating
the adequacy of the City's internal controls as well as recommending improvements to the City's financial
management practices.
Balanced Budget – Refers to a budget funding plan in which total funding sources exceed total funding
uses. Total funding sources would include revenues, transfers in from other funds, use of fund balance,
and other sources such as grants, loans, or bond proceeds. Total funding uses would include expenditures,
transfers out to other funds, and retention of funds to fund balance.
Bi-Annual Budget – A budget plan that is applicable to two fiscal years.
Bonds - A bond is a written promise to pay a specified sum of money (called the face value or principle
amount) at a specified date or dates in the future (called the maturity date) together with period interest at
a specified rate. Bonds are typically used to finance capital facilities.
Budget - As the City's financial operating plan for the fiscal year, the budget displays the estimated
expenditures (costs) for providing services and the estimated sources of revenue (income) to pay for them.
Once the City Council adopts the budget, the total becomes the maximum spending limit. Saratoga’s budget
encompasses fiscal year (July 1 through June 30).
Budget Amendment - The Council has the sole responsibility for adopting the City budget, and may amend
or supplement the budget at any time after adoption. The City Manager has the authority to approve
administrative adjustments to the budget as outlined in the Financial and Administrative Policies set by
Council.
Budgetary Basis – This refers to the basis of accounting used to estimate financing sources and uses in
the budget. This generally takes one of three forms: GAAP, cash, or modified accrual.
Budget Calendar - The schedule of key dates which the City follows in the preparation and adoption of the
budget.
Budget Document - The official financial spending and resource plan submitted by the City Manager and
adopted by the City Council explaining the approved budget to the public and City Council.
Budget Message - Included in the opening section of the budget, the Budget Message provides the Council
and the Public with a general summary of the most important aspects of the budget, comparative data from
previous fiscal years, goals and objectives, and the views and recommendations of the City Manager.
Budget Overview – A department or program section in which the operational focus in the upcoming year
is discussed. Significant fiscal data and impacts of budgetary changes are included in the discussion.
Budget Policies - General and specific guidelines adopted by the Council that govern the financial plan's
preparation and administration.
Building Permit - Fee required for new construction or for any alteration or addition to a residence or
commercial building. The fee is based on square footage and valuation. Electrical or plumbing/mechanical
work will require a similar permit.
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Glossary
Business License Tax – A tax imposed on those conducting business within the City limits. Business
License Tax is a non-regulatory tax implemented for the purpose of raising revenue to support General
Fund activities.
California Public Employee's Retirement System (CalPERS) – A State of California administered
pension plan provided to State and Local Government employees, with contributions paid by both the City
and the employees.
CARES Act –Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act A stimulus bill passed in response to the
economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.
Capital Assets - Assets exceeding $10,000 and having a useful life of several years. Capital assets are
also called ‘Fixed Assets’ and include land, buildings, machinery, and equipment.
Capital Expenditures – Funds spent for the construction, improvement, or rehabilitation of City
infrastructure.
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) - The workplan or collection of schedules for the major construction of
roads, sidewalks, City facilities and/or park improvements and for the purchase of equipment. The first year
of the capital budget appropriations are adopted along with the operating budget, and the overall 5-year
capital workplan.
Capital Projects - Expenditures that have a value of $25,000 or more which result in the acquisition of,
construction of, rehabilitation of, or additions to, infrastructure and fixed assets with a useful life of at least
5 years at a fixed location.
Capital Projects Fund - In governmental accounting, a fund that accounts for financial resources to be
used for the acquisition or construction of capital facilities. The total cost of a capital project is accumulated
in a single expenditure account which accumulates until the project is completed.
Capital Reserve – A fund balance account used to segregate a portion of funds set aside for capital
program expenditures. These funds are subsequently used to fund future capital acquisitions or
infrastructure construction.
Carryforward/Carryover – Funds used during a financial year which are transferred to the budget for the
following year.
Cash Basis Accounting - A basis of accounting under which transactions are recognized only when cash
is received or disbursed.
City Code – The City’s listing of City Council approved ordinances currently in effect. The code defines
City policy with respect to areas such as planning and land use regulations, business regulations, etc.
Contingency - A budgetary reserve set aside for emergencies or unforeseen expenditures not otherwise
budgeted.
Contingent Liabilities - Items which may become liabilities of the City but are undetermined at a given
date, such as pending lawsuits, unsettled disputed claims, unfilled purchase orders and uncompleted
contracts.
Contract Services - Services provided to the City from the private sector or other public agencies.
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Glossary
Debt Service - Payment of the principal and interest on an obligation resulting from the issuance of bonds,
notes, or Certificates of Participation (COPs).
Debt Service Fund - A fund established to account for the accumulation of resources for, and the payment
of, general long-term debt principal and interest.
Deficit - The excess of liabilities over assets.
Department - A major organizational unit of the City, which has been assigned overall management
responsibility for an operation, or a group of related operations within a functional area. In Saratoga,
Department Heads are the chief administrators within a department.
Depreciation – The prorated expense of a fixed asset, less any salvage value, charged as an expenditure
over the estimated service life of the asset.
Encumbrances - Commitments against an approved budget for unperformed (executory) contracts for
goods or services. They cease to be encumbrances when the obligations are paid or otherwise terminated.
Enterprise Funds - Established to account for the financing of self-supporting activities of governmental
units, which render services on a user charge basis to the general public.
Equipment Replacement Fund – This fund is used to account for the replacement of existing fixed assets
as equipment, machinery or building improvements become unserviceable or obsolete.
Expenditure -The outflow of funds paid or to be paid for an asset obtained or goods and services obtained.
Note: An encumbrance is not expenditure; an encumbrance reserves funds to be expended. (See
encumbrances.)
Fiduciary Funds – Used to account for assets held by the City acting in a fiduciary capacity for other
entities and individuals. Such funds are operated to carry out the specific actions of trust agreements,
ordinances and other governing regulations. There are two categories of fiduciary funds: Trust and Agency.
Fiscal Year - A 12-month period to which the annual operating budget applies and at the end of which the
City determines its financial position and results of its operations. The City’s fiscal year runs from July 1st
to June 30th.
Fixed Assets - Non-consumable assets of long-term nature such as land, buildings, machinery, furniture,
and other equipment. The City has defined such assets as those with an expected life in excess of one
year and value in excess of $10,000.
Franchise Fees - Imposed on utility companies for the privilege of doing business in the City. Fees are
usually based upon a percentage of gross revenue derived from business conducted in the City.
Full-time Equivalents (FTE) - The amount of time a position has been budgeted for in terms of the amount
of time a regular, full-time employee normally works in a year. Full-time employees are paid for 2,080 hours
in a year equating 1.0 FTE. Correspondingly, a part-time employee who worked 1,040 hours would equate
to 0.5 FTE.
Fund - An independent fiscal and accounting entity with a self-balancing set of accounts in which cities
record financial transactions relating to revenues, expenditures, assets, and liabilities. Each fund type
typically has a unique funding source and purpose. Establishing funds enables the City to account for the
use of restricted revenue sources that carry specific activities or pursue specific objectives.
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Glossary
Fund Accounting - System used by non-profit organizations, particularly governments. Since there is no
profit motive, accountability is measured instead of profitability. The main purpose is stewardship of financial
resources received and expended in compliance with legal requirements.
Fund Balance - Also known as the net financial position in a governmental fund, fund balance is the excess
of current assets over current liabilities and represents the cumulative effect of revenues and other financing
sources over expenditure and other financing uses.
Fund Equity – represents the net financial position in a non-governmental fund. See Fund Balance
definition above.
GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) - Uniform minimum standards for financial
accounting and reporting. They govern the form and content of the basic financial statements of the City.
Gann Appropriation Limit – This is the common name of Proposition 4, approved by voters on November
6, 1979, which mandated an appropriation limit on the amount of tax revenues that government jurisdictions
may appropriate within a fiscal year. This bill was named after Paul Gann, who was a co-sponsor of the
famous Proposition 13 initiative enacted by the voters of California on June 6, 1978, which resulted in a
cap on property taxes in the state, and a prominent author and advocate of this subsequent spending
limitation bill.
Gas Fund Tax - The Gas Fund Tax is used to account for revenues and expenditures apportioned under
the Streets and Highways Code of the State of California. Expenditures may be made for any street related
purpose in the City’s system of streets.
General Fund - In governmental accounting, this is the primary fund used to account for assets and
liabilities of a non-profit entity, except for those items specifically assigned for other purposes in another
more specialized fund.
General Government – City Council, City Manager, City Clerk, City Attorney, Human Resources, Finance,
Community Development, Public Works, Recreation, and Public Safety.
General Liability Self Insurance Fund - The General Liability Self Insurance Fund is used to provide the
City with liability and property insurance. Coverage is provided through participation in a joint powers
agreement (PLAN JPA) that consists of 28 Bay Area Cities.
General Obligation Bond – A municipal bond backed by the credit and "taxing power" of the issuing
jurisdiction rather than the revenue from a given project. General obligation bonds are issued with the belief
that a municipality will be able to repay its debt obligation through taxation or revenue from projects. No
assets are used as collateral.
Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) – GFOA is the professional association of
state/provincial and local finance officers in the United States and Canada, and has served the public
finance profession. Approximately 16,000 GFOA members are dedicated to the sound management of
government financial resources.
Governmental Funds – the fund used to account for all assets and liabilities of a government agency,
except those particularly assigned for other purposes in another more specialized fund. There are five
different types of governmental funds: the general fund (which is the primary operating fund), special
revenue funds, debt service funds, capital project funds, and permanent funds.
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Grant - External contributions, and/or gifts of cash, or other assets typically from another governmental
entity to be used or expended for a specific purpose, activity, or facility. An example is Community
Development Block grant funding from the Federal Government.
Infrastructure – The basic facilities, services, and installations needed for the functioning of a community
or society, such as streets and roads, sidewalks, bridges, communications systems, water and power lines,
and public institutions including schools, police stations, libraries, and post offices.
Interest Income – The prudent investment of idle funds. The types of investments that can be made are
limited by the Government Code to protect the safety of taxpayers' money.
Intergovernmental Revenue – Revenue received from other governmental agencies and municipalities,
such as grants from the State or Federal government.
Internal Services Fund –The Internal Service Funds are used to finance and account for special activities
and services performed by a designated City department for other departments on a cost reimbursement
basis.
Inter-Fund Transfers – When the City moves money between its various funds, it makes an inter-fund
transfer, referred to as transfers-in and transfers-out. In aggregate, transfers in and out offset each other
for the fiscal year.
Landscape and Lighting Fund – The City forms landscape and lighting zone funds within the City, via
majority consent of the property owners, to manage the landscape, storm water, or lighting services for the
property owners.
Levy – To impose taxes, special assessments, or service charges for the support of governmental activities.
The total amount of taxes, special assessments or service charges imposed by Santa Clara County levying
property taxes.
Licenses and Permits – Revenues earned by the issuance of licenses or permits levied in accordance
with the benefits conferred by the license or permit.
Limited Obligation Bond - A bond sold by a municipality to finance projects which are secured by the
revenue generated by those projects.
Line-Item Budget – A detail level budget that lists individual expenditures (staff time, paid-time-off,
insurance, pension, office supplies, small tools, membership dues, water, electricity, janitorial services, etc.)
Major Fund – A major fund in government accounting is a fund that meets specific criteria based on its
financial significance. Major funds are reported separately in the fund financial statements, providing more
detailed information about the government's most important funds.
Modified Accrual Basis – An accounting method used by governmental agencies that is in part accrual
basis, and in part cash basis. Under modified accrual, revenues are recognized when they become both
measurable and available to finance expenditures of the current period. Expenditures are recognized when
the related fund liability is incurred – with exceptions for prepayments, accumulated employee leave and
long-term debt. Governmental Funds and Expendable Trust Funds are accounted for using the modified
accrual basis of accounting.
Motor Vehicle in Lieu Fee (MVLF) – A State fee charged for the privilege of operating a vehicle on public
streets. A VLF is levied annually against the market value of a motor vehicle and is imposed by the State
“in lieu” of local property taxes.
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Glossary
Net Operations – Term used to define the positive or negative residual between sources (revenues,
transfers-in) and uses (expenditures, transfers out) in an income statement type of schedule.
Non-Departmental – This program has the sole purpose of accounting for all expenditures that the City
cannot specifically designate to any operating department within the General Fund.
Net Revenue – The balance after the expenditures are subtracted from the revenue.
Objective - A statement of specific direction, purpose, or intent based on the needs of the community and
the goals established for a specific program or service level.
Ordinance - A formal legislative enactment by the City Council. It has the full force and effect of law within
City boundaries unless pre-empted by a higher form of law. An Ordinance has a higher legal standing than
a Resolution and is typically codified in a City's municipal code.
Operating Budget - The operating budget is the primary means by which most of the financing of
acquisition, spending and service delivery activities of a government are controlled. The use of annual
operating budgets is required by law.
Other Revenues - Revenues from sources other than those specifically identified that are too immaterial
in amount to justify the creation of new revenue account line items.
Performance Measure - Sets forth a performance objective and a goal for achieving the objective.
Personnel Benefits - Those benefits paid by the City as conditions of employment.
Personnel – In the context of this document, refers to City employees.
Present Value - The amount that a future sum of money is worth today, given a specified rate of return.
Proposition 218 - A statewide initiative passed by the voters of California on November 5, 1996 that
provides California voters with the right to vote on new taxes.
Program - As subdivisions of departments, programs are budgetary or organizational units of government
with limited sets of work responsibilities within their respective departments. Programs also serve to
increase budgetary accountability. Saratoga's budget is compiled on a program basis.
Property Tax - Imposed on real property (land and permanently attached improvements). The tax is based
upon the assessed value of such property. The tax rate may not exceed 1 percent of assessed value.
Proprietary Funds – Funds that focus on the determination of operating income, changes in net assets (or
cost recovery), financial position, and cash flows. There are two different types of proprietary funds:
enterprise funds and internal service funds.
Reserve - An account used to indicate that a portion of fund equity is legally restricted for a specific purpose.
Resolution - A special order of the City Council which has a lower legal standing than an ordinance.
Resources - Total amounts available for appropriation including estimated revenues, inter-fund transfers,
and beginning fund balances.
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Revenue - Sources of income, which the City receives during a fiscal year. Examples of revenue include
taxes, intergovernmental grants, service charges, fees, permits, rental and lease income, interest income,
and other financing sources such as the proceeds derived from the sale of fixed assets.
Sales Tax – The consumer goods tax that includes a designated 1 percent that is returned to the local
agency by the State Board of Equalization on a monthly direct deposit basis.
Special Assessment Bonds - Bonds payable from the proceeds of special assessment.
Special Revenue Fund - In governmental accounting, fund used to account for the proceeds of special
revenue sources (other than special assessments, expandable trusts, or for major capital projects) that are
legally restricted to expenditure for a specified purpose.
Service Charge - Charges for specific services rendered.
Services and Supplies - Expenditures for services and supplies which are directly related to a
department's primary service activities.
SLFRF (State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds) Provision of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to
provide funding to state, local, and Tribal governments with the resources needed to respond to the
pandemic and its economic effects. Saratoga received $7.2 million in funding and allocated the funds to the
capital improvement program for needed regional clean water infrastructure improvements in 2021-22.
Summary Budget – A budget that provides a tabular listing of revenues by source and expenditures by
fund and by department within each fund for the budget year.
Supplies - An expenditure classification for articles and commodities purchased for consumption or resale.
Tax Equity Allocation (TEA) – State of California property tax law requires the auditor of each county with
qualifying cities to make property tax revenue allocations as defined in Section 98 of the Revenue and
Taxation Code. TEA typically refers to the minimum 7 percent allocation established by legislation in
Proposition 13 clean-up bills.
Taxes - Compulsory charges levied by the City, County, and State for the purpose of financing services
performed for the common benefit.
Transient Occupancy Tax - Imposed on hotels, motels, inns or other lodging facilities. The rate in Saratoga
is 10 percent.
Transfers In/Out – Money transferred from one City fund to another. Differs from revenue and expense in
that it is a reallocation from one category to another, such as General Fund money that is transferred for
use in the Capital Improvement program is neither an expense of the General Fund, nor a revenue of a
Capital Project Fund.
VLF – See MVLF.
Working Capital – The difference between current assets and current liabilities in Enterprise Funds (versus
Net Operations in Governmental Funds). Measures the relatively liquid portion of total Enterprise Fund
capital.