Edition 23 | May 1, 2024

Community Input and Engagement Welcomed

As a tween and later I was fortunate to have access to publications rich in public/foreign affairs information. As a result, I marveled at the transformation of China into an economic powerhouse. Their rapid expansion occurred with very little opposition – the messiness of democracy avoided. Factories, housing, rail and roads, and other infrastructure were built without input from local communities and, in some cases, resulted in environmental degradation and displacement of residents. Fortunately, we have accepted that the messiness of democracy, including delays and disagreements, is a worthy price of living in a society that values input in decision making.

When I started working for local government after a stint in the private sector, I was impatient and frustrated with the slow pace of government processes (my current colleagues may allege that I still am). Over time, I have learned that government performs as designed. It is not designed for efficiency. It is designed to be deliberate, fair, ethical, inclusive, and transparent. Thus, if my home needs to undergo a large remodel, the approval process is infuriatingly slow; but if my neighbor has a large remodel project, I want it to slow down or be stopped completely 😊.

This year, residents have several opportunities to provide input and be part of decision-making processes. The following is a list of some of these opportunities:

• Budget: The community will be able to provide input for the budget process by attending the City Council meetings on May 14th and May 28th as well as by coming to City Hall and meeting with staff during the Budget Open House on May 14th from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
• The Parks & Recreation Masterplan is a comprehensive, long-range strategy for the creation, optimization, and maintenance of our community’s assets and programs. It doesn’t just focus on one particular park or program area, but instead offers a broad and interconnected view of a community’s parks and recreation landscape, both for today and beyond.
• The Downtown Specific Plan will create a framework for our downtown including economic development. Once completed, the plan will contain detailed development standards and various implementation measures that will inform both future downtown streetscape changes and new infill development.
• The Streets Masterplan aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and overall quality of the City’s streets. The plan will guide decisions regarding location, form, function, design, and classifications of streets. The plan will include maps and designs – showing the location of current and suggested future streets, as well as potential designs of new or improved roadways and bridges.
• 2024 Elections: It is anticipated that residents will be able to vote on a number of important subjects including the NVTA’s recalibration of Measure T (known as Measure U), Noble House hotel development at Charles Krug, election to three City Council seats (mayor and two council members), and the City’s own real property transfer tax (RPTT) and City Charter proposals.
• Community members can provide input by serving on five Boards, Committees, and Commissions. Applications for the 15 available positions are due on or before June 10 at 5 p.m.
• If the above ways on contributing to the betterment of the community are not enough, you can run for one of the three City Council seats this fall. Despite the challenges, our democracy requires brave souls of good conscience to step up and volunteer to make decisions for the community.

In addition to the above, the community can provide input by attending City Council, board, committee and commission meetings or sending emails in for Public Comment.

Remember, if the City Council makes a decision that is inconsistent with your beliefs, values, or interests, it does not mean that they ignored you or that your input did not matter, it is simply that they had a different perspective or solution. Recently, I testified at the state legislature on bills that are detrimental to the efficient functioning of local government – even though I know my perspective as an experienced manager of public resources will be “ignored.” I also had the privilege of providing input to a congressman on a couple of matters that are deeply important to me. I accept that in our representative democracy, I get to provide input but not necessarily have impact. That said, I know I am right, and the congressman and assembly persons are wrong. 😊

Yours In Service,

Anil Comelo

City Manager

City of St. Helena

*For information on ways to participate in the above items and more please continue to read the City Newsletter and our social media channels for additional information.

$959,752 Check for Water Treatment Facility Upgrades

The City of St. Helena received a check from Congressman Mike Thompson to help upgrade St. Helena's water treatment facility’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, which is the computer system that operators use to monitor and control the plant. When completed, the upgrades, which will include a solar array, will provide facility operators the option to monitor and control the treatment process remotely. This is essential for the plant to remain operational when there are public safety power shutoffs (PSPS), in the event of wildfire damage to the power grid, or if the access road for the facility becomes impassable during wildfire events. This funding is critical in helping the City meet Safe Drinking Water Act standards and ensuring the equipment at the water treatment plant operates efficiently, effectively, and sustainably.

Erika Opp, Administrative Analyst – City Clerk’s Office

Erika Opp was recently selected as the Employee of the Quarter after being nominated by other staff members. This year all nominations focus on employees who are responsive to the community and other staff. In their nominations other staff wrote that Erika is always quick to respond to the community, City Council members, and coworkers, is always extremely helpful, and does everything with a smile and “can do” attitude.

Erika started with the City of St. Helena in December 2022 after working as an administrative assistant at Silverado Resort, working with their managing director and ownership group for 18 years. As an administrative analyst Erika works directly under our City Clerk, responding to public records requests, helping to review and create agendas for City Council meetings, and works to save, organize, and digitize City records on Laserfiche, an online portal that allows the community and staff to search for documents. She also sits on the Employee Engagement Committee, helping to plan staff development activities and trainings throughout the year.

Erika, whose husband grew up in St. Helena, has two kids in college and her stepson lives and works in Napa. When not at work Erika enjoys reading (her 2024 goal is to read 50 books), spending time with her family, going to the ocean (especially Sea Ranch), wine tasting, and playing with their dog, Rocco, a Malshi (Maltese/Shih Tzu).

April 23, 2024

• A proclamation recognizing May as Historic Preservation Month (PDF) was read and presented to Christine French, the executive director for Napa County Landmarks.
• Reports by Staff and City Council, Staff Briefings:
• Public Works Director gave an update on the Kearney and Andrea watermain project and also announced that the City is in the process of bidding the next phase of road work repairs. 
• Community Services Director provided an update about the Crane Park Lighting project that has been completed on the tennis and pickleball courts. The Public Works team has also been getting Lyman Park ready for a series of events including repainting the Gazebo that is being completed by Larson Bros Painting.
• Council Member Anna Chouteau provided an update regarding the Fentanyl Safety Screening and Expert Panel event at Cameo Cinema on April 24. Tacos were provided by Ray Ray’s Tacos.
• Mayor Dohring commented on his attendance at the dedication of the monument to the Chinese workers that helped build the Napa Valley. He thanked the community, community groups including the St. Helena Historical Society, and others involved in making it happen. 
• Consent Items:
• After an RFP process for fire fuel abatement services on 12 City owned and maintained properties, a two-year contract was approved with Land Revision to provide fire mitigation and weed abatement services (PDF). City Manager Comelo, Public Works Director Joe Leach, Fire Chief John Sorensen, Finance Director Mandy Kellogg provided additional information regarding the item.
• Set a Public Hearing for June 11 to consider objections to proposed annexation of 2126 Madrona Avenue into the St. Helena Municipal Sewer District (PDF). 
• Authorize a sign-on bonus and retention bonus for Water Chief Plant Operator and Wastewater Chief Plant Operator classifications (PDF) to attract and retain qualified candidates. Both positions are currently recruiting.
• An agreement with the St. Helena Unified School District to continue using the Vintage Hall Board Room (PDF) through June 30, 2028, for City Council and Planning Commission meetings. 
• The March 2024 review and forecast of City water supply availability (PDF) was provided to the Council. Council Member Eric Hall commented on water usage being up over previous years. Public Works Director Joe Leach encouraged continued water conservation and efficiency efforts throughout the year.
• The approval of a contract amendment with Willdan Financial Services (PDF) as they help with the current User Fee Study that will also include updating planning fees. 
• An administrative budget line-item correction was made relating to the City Hall move in 2023 (PDF). After change orders were included, the project came in at the approved budget with contingency.
• A contract for Fourth of July Fireworks was approved (PDF), however staff is actively seeking sponsorships to help offset the cost of the fireworks and other community activities happening that day including the bike parade, St. Helena Community Band performance, and community festival at Crane Park. Businesses, groups, or individuals interested in learning about donation opportunities can contact Dave Jahns at recreation@cityofsthelena.org. Community Services Director Dave Jahns provided a presentation regarding Fourth of July events and fireworks. Council Member Eric Hall encouraged finding sponsorships and fundraising to help cover the costs of the event. A member of the public and additional council members also spoke regarding the events and potential fundraising efforts. Council members recommended seeking alternative options to fireworks, funding options, and environmental impacts for future celebrations. 
• Public Hearing:
• The first reading of an ordinance approving General Plan Amendments (PDF) to update the General Plan’s Land Use Map and Zoning Map Amendments was conducted that would bring the General Plan into conformance with the City’s 2023 to 2031 Housing Element. The Mayor opened with a statement followed by comments from the City Manager and a presentation by Community Development staff (PDF). This was followed by public comment and a discussion by the City Council. Read more about the decision in the St. Helena Star.
• The introduction and first reading of an ordinance to regulate the maintenance of vacant commercial and industrial buildings and require vacant commercial buildings be actively advertised for sale or lease (PDF). This goal is to reduce the number of unmaintained vacant storefronts and commercial buildings to spur economic development. The City Manager, Community Development Director, and City Attorney all spoke about the ordinance, followed by a discussion with Council Members. The recommendation was made to do additional public outreach regarding the ordinance and to bring it back to the City Council during a future meeting.
• Review the complete meeting agenda and watch the meeting.
• Did you know that you can sign up to have agendas emailed to you in advance of every City Council, Commission, and Board Meeting?

Click the underlined event names for more information.

• St. Helena Calendar: Learn more about our business community’s upcoming community events.

• Sudden Oak Death (SOD) Walk & Talk: Join Napa RCD for a Walk & Talk program with local arborist Bill Pramuk who will lead us in observing and learning about Sudden Oak Death (SOD), a plant pathogen affecting native trees around Napa County. RSVPs appreciated. Napa River Trail north of Lincoln Avenue and River Pointe Cottages (Napa), May 1 at 5:30 p.m.

• Blue Zones Project Community Meal: Blue Zones Project Upper Napa Valley is partnering with Sunshine Foods and Grace Episcopal Church to offer meals for the community on Wednesdays through June 5. Bring a bowl, utensils, and the beverage of your choice. Food available until it’s gone, arrive early. Grace Church, Wednesdays beginning at 6 p.m.

• Art to Save the Sea - Washed Ashore: A friendly seahorse and his jellyfish friends have washed ashore and made their way to the Cameo Cinema for the month of May. Nosh on free popcorn and fountain drinks as you experience these colorful works of art - all made of ocean debris to highlight the importance of sustainability. The art installation is part of the "Water: Essential to Art and Life" event made possible by a grant from the County of Napa's Art and Culture Advisory Committee. Cameo Cinema, May 2 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• A. Cort Sinnes Artist Reception: The artist will be showing his collection "Botanica Noir." The work is inspired by extended periods at home during COVID. With more time came more experimentation, ultimately resulting in finding gouache (opaque watercolors), and its forgiving nature when it comes to mistakes. St. Helena Public Library, May 2 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• St. Helena Farmers’ Market: Providing our community with a beautiful venue for meeting friends, greeting neighbors, cooking demonstrations, and more. Crane Park, Friday mornings from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., May through October.

• St. Helena’s Annual Sidewalk Sale: Head to the Historic Shopping District the first full weekend of May to shop St. Helena’s Annual Sidewalk Sale. Featuring great deals on home goods, last season clothing, accessories, art, and more! Sip, shop, and dine St. Helena! Main Street, May 3 to May 5.

• UpStage Napa Valley Presents “The Sound Inside”: Bella Baird is a Yale professor who prizes her independence and solitude. When she is confronted with an obstacle that she cannot face alone, she asks for the assistance of a brilliant and mysterious student. Actors and the director will hold an open discussion at the end of the performance. Grace Episcopal Church, May 3 to May 19.

• St. Helena Striders Walk: Take advantage of our natural surroundings for fun and fitness. The group meets the first Saturday of each month. Join to meet new people, get exercise and fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. Fir Hill Loop Walk - Meet at Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company, May 4 at 9 a.m.

• Sudden Oak Death (SOD) Blitz: This will be the 14th year in which Napa volunteers participate in the statewide effort to map this devastating disease. The SOD Blitz is educational and a day of service toward conserving our oaks. All are welcome after they watch a training video and sign up in advance. Napa County Ag Commissioner's Office (1710 Soscol Avenue, Napa), May 4 to May 6.



• Inaugural Pickleball Tournament: Although the tournament spots are filled, come cheer on the players and enjoy food trucks and festivities. There are also still spots available for the introductory clinics. Participants will learn new skills such as how to keep score, serve, forehands, backhands, and how to accurately place serves into the correct square. All proceeds benefit UpValley Family Centers. Crane Park on May 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Event may change due to weather, follow St. Helena Parks & Recreation on Facebook for updates.)

• Classic Car Show - Rally 4 Rianda: Join Rianda House for its 10th annual event showcasing classic cars, good company, and fun. Food, music, beer, and wine await – come one, come all! Adams Street (east of Library Lane), May 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• City of St. Helena Budget Workshop: Learn more about the City of St. Helena FY 2024/2025 budget and ask questions. St. Helena City Hall (Main Conference Room) on May 14 at 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

• Wine and Words: Join the St. Helena Public Library Friends & Foundation for an intimate evening with St. Helena winemakers who will share their stories and prized wines in support of the St. Helena Public Library. Carnegie Building, May 16 at 6 p.m.

• Behind the Gates - St. Helena Garden Tour 2024: Spend the afternoon touring the historic gardens of St. Helena. Tickets available now. For those interested in being more involved, learn more about becoming a docent for the garden tour. This is a joint event by the St. Helena Historical Society and Napa County Landmarks. May 18 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• 5th Annual Neighborhood Table: Celebrate the start of the summer season in St. Helena amidst the breathtaking backdrop of majestic mountains and lush vineyards with an unforgettable evening dedicated to supporting the St. Helena Hospital Foundation’s Mobile Health team. Groove to the rhythm of the live music of Apple Z that will set the tone for an evening of celebration and enjoyment. Adams Street at Library Lane, May 18 at 5 p.m.

• Save the Date - Community Soccer Night: After a successful event in 2023, the St. Helena Parks and Recreation team is bringing back Noche Comunitaria de FÚTBOL (Community Soccer Night). You can expect the same great family activities and food as last year, plus Youth Soccer Clinics from Napa Valley 1839 FC and Challenger Sports, and an Adult (16+) 4 vs. 4 Soccer Tournament (pre-registration required for tournament only). St. Helena High School Soccer Fields, May 31 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• Save the Date - Community Forum: Cameo Cinema, June 24 at 6 p.m. Additional details to come.

• Save the Date - Dinner at the Museum: Enjoy a paella dinner among artifacts that document the region’s history dating back 10K years to the area’s native people, the Wappos. Look forward to tapas, Gerard’s Paella, salad, dessert from the CIA, and Napa Valley wines. St. Helena Historical Society and Museum (1255 Oak Avenue), July 20 at 5:30 p.m.

City of St. Helena

1088 College Avenue

St. Helena, CA 94574