Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
OPEN SPACE, CONSERVATION & RECREATION ELEMENT
INTRODUCTION
The requirements for the Open Space Element ( Government Code Sections 65302[ e] and 65560 et seq.) are similar to those issues which are addressed in the Conservation Element ( Government Code Section 65302( d)). Therefore, this element combines these two state- mandated elements, Open Space and Conservation, and adds an optional Recreation component into one comprehensive OCR element.
State law mandates that Open Space Element address four basic areas of concerns: ( 1) Open space for resource management including agricultural and mineral resources; ( 2) Open space for outdoor recreation including parks and recreational facilities; ( 3) Open space for public health and safety including flood prone areas and earthquake fault zones; ( 4) Open space for the preservation of natural resources, including natural plant communities, habitat for fish and wildlife, and water resources. Added to this, the Conservation Element is required to address issues such as waterways, soils, wildlife preservation, natural and riparian habitats and scenic, historical and cultural resource conservation. Recreational topics addressed in this Element include neighborhood and community parks, and pedestrian and bicycle trails. Much of the important aspects of each of these issues are addressed through Goals, Objectives, Policies and Programs elsewhere in the plan. This section however, groups the discussion items providing an " Overview" to the Open Space, Conservation and Recreation programs of the City. This " Overview" discusses the following topics:
 Open Space  Extractive Resources
 Agricultural Lands  Energy Conservation
 Water Resources  Historical/ Cultural Resources
 Biological Resources  Recreation
OPEN SPACE
Open space, as defined by the Government Code, includes any parcel or area of land or waters which is essentially unimproved and designated for the preservation of natural resources, the production of natural resources, recreation, and public health and safety. This broad definition encompasses parks, storm drainage basins, viewshed setbacks and agricultural land.
AGRICULTURAL LANDS
Agricultural land is Madera County's most important resource. The preservation of agricultural resources is important to the economic vitality of the City and the region. Additionally, agriculture and its associated open space are essential to preserving regional heritage and contribute to the quality of life for residents in the County.
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Williamson Land Act
Much of the agricultural land that surrounds the City of Chowchilla is subject to the California Land Conservation Act of 1965, also known as the Williamson Act. Under the provisions of the Williamson Act, the property owner and the County enter into a ten year agreement that renews itself every year for another ten years, to keep the property in agricultural use. In exchange for this guarantee, the property owner receives a property tax reduction. The County is reimbursed for the loss of revenue by the State.
Under the terms of the Act, once an owner has filed a notice of non- renewal of the Contract, the property taxes gradually increase over the subsequent ten years. After ten years, the property can be developed as any other piece of land. If the owner doesn't want to wait for the contract to expire naturally, a series of findings, and a penalty equal to 12.5 percent of the assessed value of the land were it not under the contract, must be paid to the State. The findings are almost impossible for a County to make, but under certain circumstances, can be made by a City.
Williamson Act land has affected the growth pattern of many communities, and can often prevent annexations and/ or the efficient provision of services. This is especially true when adjacent parcels may not be covered by the Act, or have different times left to run on the Contract.
To address the Williamson Act issue, the City will include an agricultural land use designation and zoning classification, to allow for the logical expansion of City boundaries and the expansion of services. The City has already included an open space land use designation and zoning classification for such uses a golf course which may remain in the Williamson Act, yet be annexed into the City. The City has already prepared written guidelines for the cancellation of Williamson Act Contracts, including procedures, time lines, and an explanation of the requisite findings.
WATER RESOURCES
The City of Chowchilla is within the San Joaquin Hydrologic Basin as defined by the State Department of Water Resources, which encompasses the northern third of the San Joaquin Valley. Madera County is further subdivided into three Detailed Analysis Units ( DAUs); one encompasses the western portion of the Valley, another covers the central portion of the Valley, and the third covers the eastern portion of the Valley. All three DAUs have shown a steady decrease in water levels for many years, with some recovery in wetter years. According to information prepared by Madera County, a severe water depression exists east of Chowchilla, between Chowchilla and the City of Madera.
Agricultural wells are a major user of groundwater during dry years or when surface water irrigation supplies are not available. Some agricultural areas in the county, including smaller irrigation districts rely completely on groundwater supplies in dry years. Water supply is one of the most critical issues in Madera County. Farmers pump from the upper unconfined aquifer and the lower confined aquifer.
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Groundwater Recharge
The groundwater basin has not shown significant potential for rapid groundwater recharge in the vicinity of Chowchilla. The most advantageous groundwater recharge area is in the central portion of the Valley. Agricultural irrigation does recharge groundwater in the vicinity of Chowchilla. Water carried in the Chowchilla River, Ash Slough, Berenda Reservoir, and Berenda Slough is seen as the most effective recharge method for the Chowchilla Planning Area. The City may consider purchasing agricultural water from irrigation districts to increase groundwater recharge efforts the City is already making.
Groundwater in the Chowchilla area occurs in several ways. Water from natural precipitation, natural and manmade drainage ways and canals, and agricultural irrigation percolates to aquifers. Water also migrates below the ground surface from areas east of Chowchilla.
Water Quality
Quality of groundwater use for domestic supply in the Chowchilla currently meets state and federal water quality standards. Standards have changed over the past several years and there is an expectation that they will continue to change during the planning period. Minute contaminants can cause the City's water system to fail chemical tests. Many cities, including Chowchilla, have opted to chlorinate the municipal water supply to avoid chemical test failures. The City has embarked on a long- term process to identify potential causes of minute contamination from mechanical well equipment, routine testing programs, and potential cross connections between non- City water supplies, back flow prevention, and other potential causes.
Water Suppliers
State planning law requires that general plan conservation elements address water resources in coordination with all water providers within the jurisdiction for which the general plan is prepared. Therefore, descriptions of agricultural water providers are included. A clear distinction exists between water service provided by the City for domestic use and water provided by local water districts for agricultural use.
Domestic Water
Domestic water in the Chowchilla area is provided by the City of Chowchilla. The City of Chowchilla and surrounding urban areas draw local groundwater to meet all domestic, commercial, and industrial water demands.
Guidelines for the management of the Chowchilla water system are presented in the Chowchilla Municipal Code, Chapter 13.04. This chapter of the Municipal Code establishes specific guidelines for the provision of water services, billing and service charges, and defines unlawful acts regarding the wasting of water.
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Agricultural Irrigation Water
Agricultural irrigation water is provided in the vicinity of Chowchilla by the Chowchilla Water District ( CWD). Opportunities exist for the City and CWD to explore groundwater recharge programs with excess water that may be allocated to CWD that may be carried out through impounding surface water within sinking basins and natural streams.
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Naturally occurring vegetation and wildlife have recreational, educational, and aesthetic values to the entire community. As the City grows, the need for preservation of the valuable diversity of species becomes increasingly important.
Current data, available from the California Department of Fish and Game Diversity Database, provides an insight into the sensitive biological resources that have potential for occurring in the Chowchilla Planning Area. These resources include sensitive plant/ wildlife communities, jurisdictional wetlands, wildlife species and plant species.
Plant & Wildlife Communities
Valley Sacaton Grassland has been reported in the vicinity of Chowchilla. Other sensitive plant/ wildlife communities from Madera County include Valley Sink Scrub and Valley Saltbush Scrub.
Given the soils in the Chowchilla Area, there is a potential for vernal pools. Although no vernal pools have been documented in the State of California Department of Fish and Game California Natural Diversity Data Bank for the Chowchilla Planning Area, vernal pool communities may still exist in isolated places which have not been identified. Historical and ongoing agricultural activities may have disrupted and destroyed beyond recovery vernal pool habitats that may have been located in the Planning Area.
Vernal pools often contain sensitive invertebrate ( wildlife) and plant species. A number of wildlife and plant species that inhabit vernal pools are currently proposed for listing as threatened or endangered.
Other sensitive wetland habitats such as marshes, sloughs, seasonal wetlands, alkali playas, etc., may be present within the Chowchilla Planning Area and subject to Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
Wildlife Species
The California tiger salamander ( Ambystoma tigrinum californiense) may exist within the vicinity of the Chowchilla Planning Area. Other sensitive species known to occur in Madera County at greater distances from Chowchilla include; Tipton Kangaroo Rat ( Dipodomys nitratoides), Tri- colored blackbird ( Agelaius tricolor), Swainson's hawk ( Buteo swainsoni), and the Blunt noised leopard lizard ( Gambelia silus). If suitable
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habitat exists, any of these species could be residents or transient visitors of the Chowchilla Planning Area.
Although not currently reported in the Chowchilla Planning Area, other state or federally listed wildlife species are known to occur in Madera County. Included in this list are the Giant kangaroo rat ( Dipodomys ingens) and San Joaquin antelope squirrel ( Ammospermophilus nelsoni), and are listed as state endangered and state threatened, respectively. Other candidate or non- listed species of concern to California Department of Fish and Game ( DFG), include Burrowing owl ( Athene cunicularia), Prairie falcon ( Falco mexicanus), and the White faced ibis ( Plegadis chihi). If new sightings or other information indicate the potential of any of these species within the Chowchilla Planning Area, DFG would likely require expanded analyses in any environmental documentation for proposed projects within the Chowchilla Planning Area.
Plant Species
The Recurved larkspur ( Delphinium recurvatum) is known to occur in the vicinity of Chowchilla. Although not reported in the Chowchilla Planning Area, other listed species that occur in Madera County include California Jewelflower ( Calulanthus californicus), and San Joaquin wooly- threads ( Lembertia congdonii).
Extractive Resources
Resource extraction involves the removal of natural resources from their place of discovery.
The only significant mineral commodities that might be found within the Chowchilla Planning Area are sand and gravel for road and building construction. At this time the only potentially significant commercially valuable deposits may be found in Ash Slough or Berenda Slough.
ENERGY CONSERVATION
The goal of energy conservation is to reduce the use of depletable or nonrenewable energy resources. Reduced consumption may be achieved either by the more efficient use of these resources, or by replacing them with renewable or non- depletable resources.
Energy is either renewable or non- renewable. Renewable resources are those whose supply is unlimited or can be replenished. This includes solar and wind energy, and, if properly managed, hydroelectric and geothermal power. Nonrenewable resources are those which are limited in supply and which may eventually be depleted. These energy resources include water, oil, and gas. At present, most energy consumed is nonrenewable.
According to The 1992- 1993 California Energy Plan prepared by the California Energy Commission, over 90 percent of the energy consumed in California in 1991 originated
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from fossil fuels. Transportation accounted for approximately 50 percent and industrial uses comprised approximately 30 percent of all energy consumed. Residential use of energy was limited to approximately 12 percent of the total energy consumed. The remaining eight percent is consumed by various sources including agriculture.
Both new and existing buildings can be adapted to the use of renewable energy resources. The City of Chowchilla's climate is ideal for development of active and passive solar heating. Solar energy can be utilized for building and water heating needs. Solar energy can be applied in new buildings, since the structure can be positioned and built to take full advantage of the sun. Building can also be designed to minimize the use of air conditioning by blocking the summer sun and collecting air for natural ventilation.
Vegetation can help with conservation of energy by lowering ambient temperatures of structures and parking lots. Reducing ambient temperatures of buildings could reduce air conditioning requirements. Vegetation can also be used to protect buildings from the cooling effects of winter winds.
There are four general options the City of Chowchilla may utilize to encourage energy consumption. First, the City can influence land use and infrastructure patterns. Second, the City can provide educational material for energy conservation. Third, the City can provide incentives to encourage energy conservation. Finally, the City can adopt regulations requiring energy conservation. Regulations can take a variety of forms and reflect varying degrees of stringency.
HISTORIC & CULTURAL RESOURCES
The City of Chowchilla contains many physical links with its historic past. Historic sites, buildings and objects are reminders of the City's unique heritage and its place in the development of the Central Valley and the State.
Historic Preservation
Historic preservation is the identification and protection of these sites and structures of architectural, historical, archaeological, or cultural significance. Historical sites and landmarks are unique reminders of the social, economic and political history of an area and their preservation includes many benefits. The preservation of cultural resources is the preserving of tangible presence of the past. The economic benefits of historic preservation are many: ( 1) tourism; ( 2) an increase in rental and resale value of property; ( 3) lower replacement costs by recycling older buildings; and ( 4) increased tax revenues. Historic preservation can also be considered as a reinvestment in a neighborhood to stop its decline and reverse its downward spiral. The reuse of vacant or abandoned buildings and the reuse of existing infrastructure have evolved into a viable approach to revitalizing neighborhoods.
In 2003, the City created a Heritage Preservation Commission to oversee the preservation of historic resources in the City. Seven Commissioners were appointed by
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the City Council and the Commission focuses on preserving resources from the 20th Century forward. The City is undertaking a survey of the downtown and older sections of the City to identify potentially significant structures and locations. The Commission will be involved in making recommendations for the preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, conversion, or demolition of older structures in the City. The Commission will take an active role in considering the scope and appropriateness of renovation, rehabilitation, and remodeling of buildings in the downtown as part of the Redevelopment Agency’s effort to revive and perpetuate downtown as a retail and business center of the City.
Historical Landmarks
A historical landmark is located at the intersection of Chowchilla Boulevard and Robertson Boulevard which denotes the site of the original Chowchilla Arch. The City of Chowchilla, Madera County, and Caltrans considers the palm trees along Robertson Boulevard a historical resource. The City is in the process of identifying historic locations in the City and exploring ways that these buildings can be retained in serviceable condition.
Archaeological Sites
Archaeological sites can yield information about the historic activities of man, evidence of earlier cultures that once inhabited the area, and sites having spiritual or cultural significance to living Native Americans. Archaeological sites, unlike other types of historic resources, should not be publicized due to the potential for vandalism. Archaeologists recommend that such sites be left untouched until competent professional research can be done. Site locations should be filed with the appropriate local archaeological society or institution, and locations should be identified only to qualified researchers or when projects may threaten the integrity of a site.
The Southern San Joaquin Valley Information Center at California State University, Bakersfield, reports that a number of small archaeological surveys have been conducted within the Chowchilla Planning Area. There are recorded archaeological sites within the City of Chowchilla and its Planning Area associated with Ash Slough and Berenda Slough. Given these discoveries, there is a possibility that additional archaeological resources may be present in the Slough areas. Because systematic archaeological surveys have not been conducted in the Chowchilla Planning Area, it not possible to predict where sites may be located, or to determine the archaeological sensitivity of any specific property. A typical condition of environmental review or development permit is that if potential archaeological sites are discovered, all work on the project shall be stopped immediately, and a qualified archaeologist retained to evaluate the site and prepare a report. Only after the site has been evaluated, and appropriate agencies have made findings and recommendations, will work be allowed to continue.
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RECREATION
Meeting the recreational needs of the current and projected population of the Chowchilla area is a responsibility of both the public and private sectors. The public sector, City, County, and Schools typically addresses recreational needs through public parks and playgrounds with their various facilities ( e. g., play equipment, ball fields and courts, swimming pools, passive play and picnic areas) and through a variety of organized recreational programs, instructional programs and special events conducted at neighborhood and community centers. The City of Chowchilla Park and Recreation Commission was established to fulfill the planning and oversight role in providing for the recreation needs of the overall community. The City's Parks and Recreation Department has the basic responsibility of carrying out recreation activities in the City. The School District cooperates with the City in carrying out basic recreation activities. The City's Park and Recreation Department is the lead agency in providing park and recreation activities within the City. Madera County does not directly participate in Parks and Recreation activities.
The private sector addresses recreational demand through the development of bowling alleys, roller skating rinks, movie theaters, private recreation and swimming pool associations, arcade centers and a variety of other businesses serving the leisure demand. The demand for major land intensive recreation activities, such as golf courses, could be addressed by either the public or private sector. Development of private golf courses are typically associated with integral housing development projects. These " country club" type projects usually demand higher land and housing development costs to off- set the golf course construction costs. Chowchilla’s first private golf course was installed as part of the Greenhills Golf course development on the northeast side of the City. Few new publicly funded and operated golf courses have been developed in the past 10 years in Madera County, as well as, in surrounding counties. Those that have been developed have relied on bond funds as the primary financial resource. Diminishing fiscal opportunities for most cities has precluded consideration of public financing for golf course development.
This element will limit itself to addressing public recreation needs.
Park Facility Standards
Standards provide a means of measurement for the allocation of recreational space and facilities for people in a given area. Standards can also be used to determine whether an existing developed area has an excess, or a deficiency of, recreational space and/ or facilities. Finally, standards can be used to establish programs to help make improvements and better meet the recreational needs of the community. The following standards define the various park types for the City:
Playlots - 2,500 to 12,500 s. f.
A playlot is a small area intended for children up to six or seven years of age. It is essentially a substitute or adjunct for a residential backyard and thus normally provided
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in medium and high density areas. Playlots range from 2,500 to 12,500 square feet, and typically are improved with play apparatus, paved areas for wheeled toys, benches, sand areas, or a small wading or spray pool, and landscape treatment. Since these playlots serve an important neighborhood function, they should be located near the centers of high density areas and away from major streets to promote the safety of children. Playlot should be developed and maintained by private development. Only rarely will the City consider developing playlots in conjunction with its normal parks and recreation program. The City would consider such facilities on an as needed basis, but does not encourage such facilities because of the high maintenance expense and difficulty in monitoring activities in those facilities.
A playlot is a small area intended for children up to six or seven years of age. It is essentially a substitute for the backyard and thus normally provided only in high density areas. Playlots range from 2,500 square feet to 12,500 square feet and typically are improved with play apparatus, paved areas for wheeled toys, benches, sand areas, or a small wading or spray pool, and landscape treatment. Since these playlots serve an important neighborhood function, they should be located near the centers of high density areas and off of major streets to promote the safety of children.
Mini or Vest Pocket Parks - 9 to 15 acres
Minor Community Parks typically serve a group of neighborhoods which may be separated by major transportation facilities from the balance of the City, or be developed to serve a specific set of recreational needs such as baseball, softball, hard court areas, swimming pools, or community center or special activity centers such as performing arts theaters or childcare. Patrons of these facilities can be expected to drive to the parks which requires adequate parking areas and access from arterial and collector streets. Location of these parks should avoid the need to travel through neighborhoods or adding substantial traffic to local streets. Since special facilities will be developed to allow for more intensive use, these parks may have night lighting, and have recreational activities at night with attendant noise from spectators or public address systems. Care must be taken when siting Minor Community Parks to avoid conflict with nearby residential uses. Minor Community Parks are generally between 9 and 15 acres in size. Minor Community Parks can also be developed as joint- use facilities able to accommodate seasonal storm drainage basins, water wells and noise attenuation measures.
Pocket Park - 0.25 to 2 acres
Pocket parks are most often found in residential neighborhoods and can be a single or several lots that are developed as an amenity to serve the immediate neighborhood. Pocket parks in neighborhoods can include play lots to serve surrounding residential uses. Pocket parks can be linear parks that separate the ends of cul- de- sacs and offer pedestrian walkways to other parts of the neighborhood. In protected locations, pocket parks can be developed as passive or active areas including playlot characteristics. Usually the pocket park is fully landscaped with trees and turf area. Surrounding streetlights ( security lighting may be provided) provides lighting.
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Pocket parks can also be found in the Downtown District through use of vacant commercial lots with access from the commercial street through to the adjacent street or alley. Pocket parks can serve the needs of shoppers or employees as places to rest or eat in the City Center, or provide access to adjacent commercial streets or parking areas, or simply provide open space texture to an otherwise commercial storefront block.
The City would consider such facilities if they were proposed as part of a Planned Development and were considered an integral element of the project's design. Typically, the City would not encourage such facilities because of the high maintenance expense and difficulty in monitoring activities in those facilities. If such facilities were constructed as part of a Planned Development, a legally established maintenance district would be required to provide funds for maintaining the facility.
Mini- parks are most often found in residential neighborhoods and can be a single lot or several lots which are developed as an open space amenity to serve the immediate neighborhood. Often mini- parks are linear parks which separate the ends of cul- de- sacs and offer pedestrian walkways to other parts of the neighborhood. These mini- parks can be developed as passive or active areas including playlot characteristics in some protected locations. Usually the mini- park is fully landscaped with trees and turf area along with sidewalk. Lighting is provided by surrounding street lights.
Vest- pocket parks are more typically found in the commercial or downtown areas of the community. Vest- pocket parks use vacant commercial lots with access from the commercial street through to the adjacent street or alley. Vest- pocket parks may serve the needs of shoppers or employees as places to rest or eat in the downtown areas, or provide access to adjacent commercial streets or parking areas, or simply provide open space texture to an otherwise commercial storefront block.
Both the mini- and vest- pocket parks are relatively expensive to acquire, maintain and manage. They typically receive higher use with less land per capita than in larger park areas.
Neighborhood Park - 1 to 9 acres
Neighborhood Parks, are designed to meet local neighborhood needs, and are intended to be within walking or bicycle distance of one- half ( 1/ 2) mile from the residence served by the park. A Neighborhood Park service area should avoid crossing any major natural or manmade barriers ( i. e., major roadways such as arterials, canals, or commercial or industrial areas) that inhibit access to the park. Based on this one- half ( 1/ 2) mile standard, the service area would potentially contain slightly less than 7,940 people.
Neighborhood Parks usually emphasize child- oriented facilities, providing a variety of play spaces and associated amenities.
It is desirable that neighborhood parks are located adjacent to elementary schools, providing a greater range of activities at one site. The type of facilities incorporated
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within the park site should reflect the needs and characteristics of the current and projected population. The size, shape and design should be tailored to the surrounding neighborhood.
Neighborhood Parks, are designed to meet local neighborhood needs, and are intended to be within walking or bicycling distance of one- half ( 1/ 2) mile from the residence served by the park. A Neighborhood Park service area should avoid crossing any major natural or manmade barriers ( i. e., major roadways such as arterials, canals, or commercial or industrial areas) that inhibit access to the park. Based on this one- half ( 1/ 2) mile standard, the service area would potentially contain slightly less than 7,940 people.
Neighborhood Parks usually emphasize child- oriented facilities, providing a variety of play spaces and associated amenities.
It is desirable that neighborhood parks are located adjacent to elementary schools, providing a greater range of activities at one site. The type of facilities incorporated within the park site should reflect the needs and characteristics of the current and projected population. The size, shape and design should be tailored to the surrounding neighborhood.
Community Park - 9 to 15 acres
Minor Community Parks typically serve a group of neighborhoods which may be separated by major transportation facilities from the balance of the City, or be developed to serve a specific set of recreational needs such as baseball, softball, hard court areas, swimming pools, or community center or special activity centers such as performing arts theaters or childcare. Patrons of these facilities can be expected to drive to the parks’ which requires adequate parking areas and access from arterial and collector streets. Location of these parks should avoid the need to travel through neighborhoods or adding substantial traffic to local streets. Since special facilities will be developed to allow for more intensive use, these parks may have night lighting, and have recreational activities at night with attendant noise from spectators or public address systems. Care must be taken when siting Minor Community Parks to avoid conflict with nearby residential uses. Minor Community Parks are generally between 9 and 15 acres in size. Minor Community Parks can also be developed as joint- use facilities able to accommodate seasonal storm drainage basins, water wells and noise attenuation measures.
Major Community Park - 15 plus acres
Major Community Parks generally serve the City as a whole. Typically, the service area is a two- mile radius. Since patrons typically drive to use community parks, they should be easily accessible from arterial and collector streets and provide safe and adequate parking as well as ingress and egress which does not reduce the level- of- service of the major streets serving the park. Major Community Parks supplement the neighborhood parks by providing for activities that require more space, special facilities, and allow for
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more intensive use. Major Community Parks may also serve as the neighborhood park for the surrounding neighborhood. Major Community Park amenities are oriented to both adults and children, often providing specialized facilities such as tennis courts, community centers, swimming pools, and sports fields such as baseball, softball and soccer. Because of these intensive uses, Major Community Parks may have night lighting, and have recreational activities at night with attendant noise from spectators or public address systems. Care in siting Major Community Parks is necessary to avoid conflict with nearby residential uses. Major Community Parks are generally between 15 and 50 acres. Major Community Parks can also be developed as joint- use facilities able to accommodate seasonal storm drainage basins, water wells and noise attenuation measures.
Regional Park – 50 plus acres
Regional parks or recreational areas are designed to serve an entire community or district and are usually over 50 acres in size. Regional parks may be large natural or preservation areas along waterways, adjacent to waterbodies or scenic areas preserved for the use by the general public. Regional parks fulfill a special need in that they offer a relaxing environment for family and group activities.
A minimum of 50 acres is required with 250 to 500 acres being more desirable. Regional Parks should feature wooded areas, varying topography and water features, picnic areas, boating and swimming, a nature center, hiking and riding trails, day camps and some sports facilities on a less formal basis than provided in a community park.
The large urban ( regional) park usually is designed to serve those within a 30- minute drive, which may be between 50,000 to 100,000 people. The recommended standard for a regional park is 4 acres per 1000 population.
Design of proposed regional park( s) will be developed on a site- specific location. All design standards and criteria will be based on current and projected population needs and characteristics.
Open Space
A public open space area is typically a large undeveloped area intended to serve as a greenbelt, or visual break to development, or to address public health and safety needs ( i. e, noise sensitive areas). Open space can also be used to protect an environmental resource, yet provide those types of recreational uses that do not substantially alter or destroy the natural environment. Low intensity recreational uses such as walking and bicycling are often compatible with open space areas. Open space can often be designed to serve dual purposes such as noise buffers, water recharge and storm drainage. Land designated as Open Space may also be actively farmed on a contract basis.
Private open space such as agricultural and other activities are not included in this definition.
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An open space area is typically a large undeveloped area intended to serve as a greenbelt, or visual break to development, or to address public health and safety needs ( i. e., noise sensitive areas). Open space can also be used to protect an environmental resource, yet provide those types of recreational uses which do not substantially alter or destroy the natural environment. Low intensity recreational uses such as walking and bicycling are often compatible with open space areas. Open space can often be designed to serve dual purposes such as noise buffers, water recharge and storm drainage. Land designated as Open Space may also be actively farmed.
Linear Parks and Trails
Linear parks and in particular trails relate more to transportation and circulation for pedestrians and bicycles than to open space in the City's General Plan. These facilities fill an important role in expanding the opportunities for alternative transportation within the City. These systems often include natural or man- made linear sources such as sloughs, utility right- of- way or service roads. Several existing watercourses and railroad right- of- way traversing the City could provide excellent opportunities for trail systems and expand access for pedestrians and bicycles in the City. Linear trails may be used to buffer noise sources, such as a rail right- of- way, or soften the impact of a wall or other utilitarian feature.
Existing Park & Recreation Facilities
The City operates and maintains two neighborhood parks ( 6.2 acres), the Community Pool ( 0.25 acres) and two community/ regional parks. The City's Community/ Regional Park is a six acre park located adjacent to Berenda Reservoir and a 23.5 acre park. While the Berenda Reservoir is owned by the CWD, the City has worked out a long term joint use agreement where the City maintains a launch ramp, concessions area, restrooms and parking lot. The park also contains picnic areas and a covered barbecue. Table OCR - 1 provides a current inventory of City and School District parks and open space. The other community/ regional park is Sports & Leisure Park ( 18 acres).
Each individual park site contains various types of facilities which are based on the needs of the residents served by the park, park size and geographic characteristics. Picnic areas and playground equipment are usually deemed essential for a park to serve the surrounding neighborhood. All of the City's three neighborhood parks provide playground apparatus and family picnic areas. Specialized recreational facilities ( e. g., ball fields, basketball court) exist at two of the City's facilities. The most common specialized facilities are lighted ball- fields. This improvement tends to serve the entire City and blurs the distinction between neighborhood and community park standards. Given the current population of the City, these more intense neighborhood parks are acceptable. However, as the City grows, more true neighborhood parks will be necessary.
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Table OCR - 1
Existing Parks Inventory
PARK TYPE AND ACRES
Park Name
Neighborhood
Community ( Minor)
Community ( Major)
Joint Facility
Facilities Available
RC Wisner
4.5
Three ball fields, playground, batting cages, concession building.
Veterans Memorial
2.1 acres
Restroom facilities, playground, horse shoe pits, two BBQ shelters.
* Sports & Leisure
18 acres
Community center, two lighted ball fields, soccer fields, playground, BBQ shelter, horse shoe pits, basketball courts, handball courts, concession building and sand volleyball court, restroom facilities.
Dower Aquatic
.25 acre
Pool area, joint agreement with CUHSD, and Madera County Fairgrounds.
Community Sports Center
1.2
Gym, joint facility with CESD, Parks and Recreation Department.
Berenda Reservoir ( Park)
6.0 acres
Restroom facilities, BBQ shelter, scout island ( picnic area), boat launch area, concession building, swimming beach area.
Total Acres of existing Park Inventory totals: 32.05 acres
• Sports & Leisure Park is currently 24 acres
Public School Facilities
School playground equipment, ball fields, play courts and open grass areas meet some community and neighborhood recreational need in nearly all areas of the City. The school facilities most often used for recreation are play fields and various ball courts ( i. e., basketball, tennis, volleyball). Interior facilities such as gymnasiums and multi- purpose rooms are also used, but are typically only available for organized activities. With many schools going to year round education, joint use of school facilities will probably diminish.
The Chowchilla Union High School District ( CUHSD) and Chowchilla Elementary School Districts ( CESD) make considerable contributions to community recreation needs through use of on- site facilities and programs for athletics, and social and cultural activities. The CUHSD campus facilities include a football stadium, playing fields, tennis courts, and gymnasium.
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The CESD provides neighborhood park level recreation facilities to the community. Facilities include paved areas for court games, playground equipment, turf areas for free play, softball diamonds, fenced tot- lots.
Park Acreage Standards
To effectively meet the needs of the community, park standards for both community and neighborhood parks are proposed. In development of these standards three factors were considered:
 The population projections for the development area;
 Siting criteria for new facilities including major roadways and schools;
 Minimum park size to provide efficient maintenance.
As shown in Table OCR - 2, a ratio of two acres of neighborhood park per 1,000 population, and two acres of community park per 1,000 population is established. This standard is consistent with the recommended park standards of the League of California Cities and National Park and Recreation Association. The Chowchilla Municipal Code provides specifics on land dedication or in- lieu park fees. The size and location of the parks will also depend on timing of development and siting of other City and School District facilities.
Table OCR - 2
City of Chowchilla General Plan Park Standards
Park Type
Acres Per 1,000 Persons
Acres Per Park
Service Area
Neighborhood Park
2.0
2.0 to 9.0 acres
1/ 2 mile radius
Minor Community Park
1.0
9.0 plus acres
2 miles radius
Major Community Park
1.0
15 plus acres
2 miles radius
The acreage needs and public park land ratios may be adjusted to account for on- site private recreational facilities, extended landscaping or pedestrian walkways, and other development amenities. Regional parks were not included in the City's parkland ratio since by their nature, they are more likely to be located outside of the City's planning area ( an example is Berenda Reservoir). Given these ratios, Error! Reference source not found. indicates the additional parkland needed to accommodate the projected population growth, using the General Plan Park Standards.
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 15
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 16 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Table OCR - 3
City of Chowchilla General Plan Park Needs
Year
Population
Increase
Neighborhood2
Minor Community3
Major Community4
2005
8,800
800
1.6
.8
.8
2010
13,664
4,864
9.7
4.9
4.9
2015
19,163
5,499
11.0
5.5
5.5
2020
24,457
5,294
10.6
5.3
5.3
Totals
16,457
32.9
16.5
16.5
Notes:
2 Based on 2.0 acres per 1,000 for Neighborhood Parks.
3 Based on 1.0 acres per 1,000 for Minor Community Parks
4 Based on 1.0 acres per 1,000 for Major Community Parks.
Park Location & Service Area
Access and security are the two most important considerations in placement of parkland. Neighborhood parks should be easy to walk to, not require small children to cross Arterials, railroads, major canals or other obstacles. The design of the park should limit backup lots, and encourage new development to face the park. While this may increase development costs of the park through the need of more sidewalk and roadway, this cost is offset by greater security. Public safety officials should be able to see into the park easily from the street.
Community parks are intended for more adult- oriented and organized sport activity. As such, adequate vehicle access and parking should be provided. Often a portion of the community park is developed to allow for its use as a neighborhood park by surrounding residences.
Park and Recreation Master Plan
The City of Chowchilla has adopted a Park and Recreation Master Plan that includes development and improvement standards for public parkland in the City of Chowchilla. The Park and Recreation Master Plan provides the detail planning and design criteria for parkland development in the City. Variations of the Master Plan standards may be allowed when associated with a Specific Plan or Master Development Plan adopted by the City for specific locations. Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 17
GOAL
The general goal of the Open Space, Conservation, and Recreation ( OCR) element is to:
 Designate, conserve and protect open space, peripheral agricultural areas, recreational, and historic/ cultural resources in the Chowchilla Planning Area for current and future residents of the City.
OBJECTIVES POLICIES & PROGRAMS
Open Space
Objective OS 1
Policy OS 1.1
Program OS 1.1. A
Program OS 1.1. B
Program OS 1.1. C
Support preservation of existing agricultural lands at the periphery of the Chowchilla Planning Area.
( AQ)
Create a greenbelt/ open space buffer around the perimeter of the Planning Area that provides a clear sense of identity for the City of Chowchilla.
( AQ)
Very low density residential and industrial land uses will be included in the land use plan to reduce density toward the edge of the Chowchilla Planning Area. The sizing of sewer lines will be reduced as they approach the edge of urban development in the Planning Area to limit growth influences beyond the Planning Area.
( AQ)
The City of Chowchilla will continue to coordinate land use planning efforts with Madera County to ensure that agricultural land uses surrounding the Chowchilla Planning Area are maintained.
( AQ)
In connection with General Plan Circulation policies, landscape design requirements will be developed for new projects along the entryways to the City, in particular Highways 99, 152, and 233. Landscape design within required minimum 20 feet setbacks should promote a sense of transition from the surrounding agricultural area and urban setting. Utilization of trees to screen urban uses along these entryways is encouraged within the setback.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 18 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Objective OS 2
Policy OS 2.1
Policy OS 2.2
Objective OS 3
Policy OS 3.1
Policy OS 3.2
Policy OS 3.3
Policy OS 3.4
Objective OS 4
The City may consider annexing and approving urban development on Williamson Act lands if such annexation is necessary to provide for logical urban development, provide connectivity to other new development, provide for low and moderate income housing, or the provision of municipal services within the Planning Area.
( AQ)
Prior to annexing any Williamson Act lands, the City shall adopt guidelines consistent with state laws that have specific criteria for agricultural conversion.
The City shall work with the County to preserve lands dedicated as “ Agruculture” within and adjacent to the Planning Area.
Maximize public open space that requires minimum public management responsibilities.
Open Space dedications shall provide a plan for funding to ensure that financing for long- term maintenance is provided.
Ownership and management responsibility of public open space shall be assigned to the agency/ organization best suited to meeting this responsibility.
Adequate security of open space shall be provided to ensure that applicable laws and regulations are enforced.
Maintenance of pocket parks shall be born by a Landscaping and Lighting District or other similar mechanism.
Maximize open space through appropriate acquisition mechanisms with willing sellers. Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 19
Policy OS 4.1
Policy OS 4.2
Program OS 4.2. A
Program OS 4.2. B
Objective OS 5
Policy OS 5.1
Program OS 5.1. A
Program OS 5.1. B
All future developments shall include appropriate mechanisms for acquisition, improvement, and maintenance of open space through the formation of special districts or other methods to provide for the cost of maintenance.
An equitable balance shall be sought between development density and open space to be preserved.
The City may require participation, directly or indirectly in the acquisition of land for the disposal of treated wastewater or storm drainage outside of the Chowchilla Planning Area. Such programs may be used as credit for the long- term preservation of agricultural or open space lands.
Require dedication of appropriate open space land as a condition of approval for proposed development projects. Establish a method for permanent maintenance of open space land through maintenance districts.
Generate funds within the community for acquisition, improvement, maintenance and management of open space lands.
The City shall actively pursue and use public and private funding sources that become available for land acquisition, facility construction, program development and maintenance of park and open space areas.
The City shall continue to collect park impact fees as a part of its development approval process.
The City shall consider formation or annexation to existing districts that provide for the long term financing of parks and open space facilities.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 20 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Objective OS 6
Policy OS 6.1
Policy OS 6.2
Objective OS 7
Policy OS 7.1
Program OS 7.1. A
Policy OS 7.2
Program OS 7.2. A
Provide and maintain open space resources for outdoor recreation.
Utilize open space areas to provide neighborhood identity and to the extent feasible, insulate the neighborhood from conflicting land uses and noise generators.
Multifamily residential developments shall be encouraged to provide private open space areas.
Provide for landscaping features to be present in all major street and circulation improvements.
( AQ)
Where feasible, Arterial and Major Collector streets should be constructed to provide landscaping along the edges and in median strips to enhance these street systems as aesthetic open space corridors.
( AQ)
The City shall develop design guidelines and standards for the construction of landscaping and improvement of Arterial and Major Collector streets which are to be landscaped.
Provide for open space and landscaping along freeway and State Highways right- of- way to present an attractive entry to the City of Chowchilla.
Along Highways 99 and 152 buffer areas may be designated as open space or require property owners to landscape buffers along these routes. This land should be either acquired by the City or development conditions attached to the land which requires improvements and maintenance of the open space area.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 21
Program OS 7.2. B
Objective OS 8
Policy OS 8.1
Policy OS 8.2
Policy OS 8.3
Objective OS 9
Interchanges between state highways, and interchanges between state highways and City streets or roads shall be appropriately landscaped to standards established by the City.
( AQ)
Protect agricultural lands and other open spaces used for the managed production of resources from premature urban development by guiding urban development toward vacant or under- used land within the urbanized area and direct new growth toward land adjacent to the urbanized area.
( AQ)
Existing agricultural areas in the Planning Area shall be retained in agricultural use until the time that such areas are needed for logical urban expansion.
( AQ)
Encourage the use of landscaped open space as a buffer between potentially non- compatible land uses.
( AQ)
Land designated Agricultural in the Planning Area may be converted to urban uses if the following findings are made:
A. Conversion to urban use will not be detrimental to the long term agricultural use of neighboring properties.
B. No other land within the Planning Area is readily available for urban development of the quality and intensity proposed by a development proposal.
C. The extension of major infrastructure through the land is necessary for the efficient cost effective implementation of the City’s General Plan.
D. That the proposal is consistent with Land Use policies regarding conversion of Agricultural lands.
Vegetation & Wildlife
( AQ)
Encourage the provision of open space areas throughout the Planning Area through the preservation and enhancement of natural features or the joint use of other public facilities and/ or rights- of- ways. Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 22 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Policy OS 9.1
Program OS 9.1. A
Policy OS 9.2
Policy OS 9.3
Program OS 9.3. A
Program OS 9.3. B
Policy OS 9.4
Policy OS 9.5
( AQ)
To the extent feasible, maintain sloughs and water courses within the Chowchilla Planning Area as components of a possible recreational trail system. Public access within sensitive habitat areas of the sloughs or waterways shall be considered individually to ensure protection of the habitat resource.
The City shall pursue the development of a recreation trail system along Ash Slough and Berenda Slough that connects the urban area and Berenda Reservoir ( See City of Chowchilla Land Use Map located in pocket at end of document).
( AQ)
Utility easement corridors shall be designated for recreational open space unless an acceptable trail alternative is included in a development plan.
Where appropriate and feasible, establish permanent mechanisms to protect wetlands and riparian corridors.
The City shall preserve natural water courses, wetlands and riparian corridors through requirements of land dedication and open space improvement imposed during the land development process.
Establish programs in connection with environmental review processes to protect endangered wildlife and their habitats. Programs established to protect wildlife and their habitats may provide for the permanent protection or relocation of wildlife habitat areas.
Vernal pools which may be located in the Chowchilla General Planning Area shall be identified and protected.
Avoid the potential adverse impacts of increased human activity on sensitive habitat areas when establishing new recreational facilities or programs.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 23
Policy OS 9.6
Program OS 9.6. A
Objective OS 10
Policy OS 10.1
Program OS 10.1. A
Program OS 10.1. B
Policy OS 10.2
Promote the preservation of existing mature trees and encourage the planting of appropriate shade trees in new developments.
Develop and adopt standards that provide for the planting of shade trees in new residential and commercial developments.
Water Resources
Promote the conservation of water within the Chowchilla community.
Maintain ordinances as necessary within the Chowchilla Municipal Code which promote water conservation.
Maintain permanent water conservation measures such as:
1. Continue enforcement of water waste ordinances
2. Continue penalties for water waste offenders
3. Enforce guidelines for drought tolerant landscapes
4. Structure water rate schedules to encourage conservation
Maintain water use limitations that could be enacted by the City Council in the event of severe drought. Measures could include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Limit all domestic outdoor water usage to designated days
2. Limitations on all auto washing by individuals, auto dealerships, and private and charitable car washes
3. Prohibit domestic irrigation between 10: 00 am and 7: 00 pm
4. Designate specific types of landscape irrigation to be discontinued
Explore use of alternative water sources within the Chowchilla Community.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 24 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Program OS 10.2. A
Program OS 10.2. B
Policy OS 10.3
Program OS 10.3. A
Program OS 10.3. B
Program OS 10.3. C
Policy OS 10.4
Policy OS 10.5
Policy OS 10.6
Consider opportunities for usage of reclaimed waste water for open space or agricultural irrigation purposes in major developments where it is cost effective to develop a water reclamation facility and transport reclaimed water to the user. Development of such a system would require approval of the Regional Water Quality Control Board ( RWQCB) and meeting state and federal requirements.
Work with the Chowchilla Water District to reroute irrigation water to Ash Slough and Berenda Slough to promote groundwater recharge.
Minimize the use of water for landscape irrigation by requiring new and rehabilitated water conservation landscape plans for new development in the City.
Establish standards for landscape review which include preferred plants and sprinkler/ irrigation criteria.
Apply conservation requirement to all landscapes within industrial, commercial, institutional, multi- family residential common areas, model homes and developer landscaped areas.
Require projects to submit planting plans, irrigation plans, irrigation schedules and water use estimates for City approval prior to issuance of building permits.
Encourage large scale industrial water users to develop internal water recycling programs during plan development and review processes.
Require installation of domestic water conserving devices for new residential, commercial and industrial remodels.
Pursue the removal of bamboo in Ash Slough and Berenda Slough to promote water conservation. Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 25
Objective OS 11
Policy OS 11.1
Program OS 11.1. A
Policy OS 11.2
Program OS 11.2. A
Objective OS 12
Policy OS 12.1
Program OS 12.1. A
Program OS 12.1. B
Ensure adequate groundwater reserves are maintained for present and future domestic, commercial, and industrial uses.
Require proponents of non- agricultural water intensive land uses, which will convert from usage of surface water to exclusive use of groundwater, to mitigate groundwater impacts.
Explore agreements with the Chowchilla Water District to provide for water recharge and ensure delivery of water for recharge during drought periods.
The potential for groundwater recharge basins should be explored and should they be feasible establish basins within and around the City of Chowchilla.
Coordinate flood control efforts within new development to promote establishment of detention basins which enhance local groundwater recharge.
Ensure groundwater quality is maintained at a satisfactory level for domestic water consumption.
Avoid degradation of groundwater reserves by domestic and industrial land uses.
Seek to connect unincorporated development within the urban fringe to the sewage treatment network.
Require proponents of industrial- oriented projects to submit proposals for water use. Encourage the reuse of water within industrial systems.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 26 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Energy Objective OS 13
Policy OS 13.1
Policy OS 13.2
Policy OS 13.3
Policy OS 13.4
Policy OS 13.5
Program OS 13.5. A
Objective OS 14
Policy OS 14.1
Conserve non- renewable energy resources and maximize the use of renewable energy resources.
Encourage more efficient use of private vehicles and increased use of mass transit and alternative transportation modes.
Encourage the retrofitting of existing buildings to be energy efficient.
Require water conservation and energy efficiency techniques to be incorporated into the design of all development projects.
Support recycling activities throughout the City.
In addition to the energy regulations of Title 24, the energy efficiency of new development shall be promoted.
The City shall adopt guidelines that encourage energy efficient development design. Possible energy efficient design techniques include: provisions for solar access; building siting to maximize natural heating and cooling; and landscaping to aid passive cooling and the protection from winter winds.
Historic/ Cultural Resources
Preserve and enhance cultural and historic resources.
Require archaeological studies by a certified archeologist in areas of potential archeological significance prior to approval of development projects.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 27
Program OS 14.1. A
Program OS 14.1. B
Program OS 14.1. C
Policy OS 14.2
Program OS 14.2. A
Objective OS 15
Policy OS 15.1
Policy OS 15.2
Consult with the California Archaeological Inventory Southern San Joaquin Valley at California State University, Bakersfield on any project that could have an impact on cultural resources.
Avoid impacts on cultural resources when archeological studies reveal the presence of cultural resources at a development site. If avoidance is infeasible, require site testing by a qualified archeologist to determine the significance of the resources, and implement recommended mitigation measures.
Halt construction at a development site if cultural resources are encountered unexpectedly during construction and require consultation with a qualified archeologist to determine the significance of the resources.
Promote the preservation and restoration of historical sites and structures within the General Plan Area that are significant to the City's or the region's cultural or historic background.
Identify historic structures within the General Plan Area and, where appropriate, promote the inclusion of these structures on the State's Inventory of Historic Sites and the National Register of Historic Places. Work with property owners in seeking registration of historical structures as State Historic Landmarks or listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
Recreation
Maximize public value from open space for recreational uses.
Secure public access to open space to the maximum extent feasible.
Actively participate with other governmental entities ( cities, county, state, and federal) or agencies in the acquisition, management, and use of recreational/ open space lands and facilities of mutual interest. Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 28 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Program OS 15.2. A
Program OS 15.2. B
Program OS 15.2. C
Objective OS 16
Policy OS 16.1
Program OS 16.1. A
Program OS 16.1. B
Program OS 16.1. C
Where a project involves potential open space, natural resource reserves, or recreational lands of interest to more than one entity, the City shall work cooperatively with the other involved agencies.
To the extent feasible, large storm drainage facilities shall be designed to accommodate community open space use.
The City shall work to identify and promote potential shared arrangements for owning, improving, and managing open space/ conservation/ recreational areas of mutual interest.
Develop public park lands at the local and community levels to meet the recreational needs of current and future residents of Chowchilla.
Establish Neighborhood Parks at a ratio of two ( 2) acres of park land per 1,000 population.
Neighborhood Parks shall be of an efficient size for operation and maintenance, generally between two ( 2) and nine ( 9) acres.
( AQ)
Neighborhood parks shall have a general service area of approximately one- half ( 1/ 2) mile radius, and to the extent possible located to avoid patrons having to cross Arterial streets, railroad lines and major waterways.
Neighborhood Parks shall be designed to promote a safe and clean environment for recreation. The City will encourage development to avoid common rear and side yard property lines with residential uses. Design of the park shall allow visibility from the road.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
City of Chowchilla Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 Page OCR- 29
Program OS 16.1. D
Policy OS 16.2
Program OS 16.2. A
Program OS 16.2. B
Program OS 16.2. C
Program OS 16.2. D
Program OS 16.2. E
Objective OS 17
( AQ)
Whenever possible, neighborhood parks shall be developed in conjunction with elementary schools.
Establish Minor Community Parks at a ratio of one ( 1) acre of park land per 1,000 population; and Major Community Parks at a ratio of one ( 1) acre of parkland per 1,000 population.
Minor Community Parks shall be of an efficient size for operation and maintenance, generally greater than nine ( 9) acres.
Major Community Parks shall be of an efficient size for operation and maintenance, generally greater than fifteen ( 15) acres.
( AQ)
Minor and Major Community parks shall have a general service area of approximately two mile radius, and located to provide adequate access to Arterial and Collector streets.
Minor and Major Community Parks shall be designed to promote a safe and clean environment for recreation. The City will encourage development to avoid common rear and side yard property lines with residential uses. Design of the park shall allow visibility from the road.
Whenever possible, Parks shall be developed in conjunction with other non- conflicting uses such as storm drainage basins, water recharge, water production and noise attenuation measures.
Encourage the development of private recreational facilities for multifamily residential projects.
Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element
Page OCR- 30 Discussion Draft General Plan July 20, 2005 City of Chowchilla
Policy OS 17.1
An essential element of a well planned Multi Family or Planned Unit Development shall be private recreation facilities including, but not limited to pools, gymnasiums, recreation rooms, and outdoor play space, etc.
[ End of Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Element]