HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 2026-02-24_11b_Supplemental 2
MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: Jessica Matson, Director of Legislative & Information Services/
City Clerk
SUBJECT: Supplemental Information
Agenda Item 11.b - February 24, 2026 City Council Meeting
Study Session to Consider the Preliminary Public Review Draft
General Plan
DATE: February 24, 2026
Attached is correspondence received for the above referenced item.
Cc: City Manager
Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director
Community Development Director
City Attorney
City Clerk
City Website and Public Review Binder
Enc
From:Heidi Gill
To:City Council; Sheridan Bohlken; Shannon Sweeney; Andrew Perez; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:SAVE SOTO Tennis Courts!!!
Date:Thursday, February 19, 2026 4:26:16 PM
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Hello,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the current situation with the Soto tennis courts. Ihave played in the local tennis league (CCWTL) for 20 years and it would be a shame to see theSoto tennis courts be taken away. Soto is one of the few public courts on the central coast leftthat allows the CCWTL and USTA league non-private club members to play at. If Soto tennis istaken away, many will lose their tennis team and not be able to play competitive tennis on thecentral coast.
As someone who plays both tennis and pickleball, I truly appreciate and enjoy both sports. I lovethat pickleball is accessible and easy to join casually, often for little to no cost. However, the sameis no longer true for competitive tennis. The current trajectory prioritizes one sport at theexpense of another, and I believe our community deserves access to both—without onecrowding out the other.
Thank you for your time and for your commitment to supporting recreation in our community.
Sincerely,
Heidi Gill
CCWTL/USTA SLO County Player
From:Joan Jordan
To:City Council; sbohiken@arroyogrande.org; Shannon Sweeney; Andrew Perez; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill
Robeson
Cc:
Subject:Save Soto Courts
Date:Thursday, February 19, 2026 6:56:26 PM
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To Whom It May Concern,
As a dedicated member of the Central Coast Women’s Tennis League and an active player in
our local tennis community, I am writing to express deep concern regarding any proposal that
would result in the loss of existing tennis courts in our area. I play regularly at Soto Park in
league play, and have for 20 years.
Tennis has a long-standing history in our community and continues to thrive, especially
among women and junior players. The courts we currently have are not only in constant use,
but they are essential for league play, coaching, tournaments, and recreational use. Simply put,
if we lose any of the courts we currently rely on, they will not be replaced — and once they’re
gone, they’re gone for good. This is not just about convenience; it’s about preserving a vital
part of our community’s athletic and social fabric.
We understand that pickleball is growing in popularity, and we support the expansion of
recreational opportunities for everyone. However, the solution to the growing demand for
pickleball should not come at the expense of tennis. These are two entirely different sports,
with different court requirements, rules, and player communities. Tennis
should not be replaced by pickleball. The growth of one sport should not mean the decline of
another. Currently we have 6 American players in the top ten of professional tennis and tennis
is a thriving sport.
Pickleball deserves its own dedicated facilities, just as tennis has had for decades.
Repurposing existing tennis courts is a short-sighted fix that disregards the needs of a thriving
tennis community. Rather than pitting one sport against another, we urge city planners and
decision-makers to treat the need for pickleball courts as a new and separate infrastructure
need — not as a reason to eliminate established tennis courts.
Please consider the lasting impact of your decisions. Tennis is a lifelong sport with deep roots
in our community, and it must be protected and preserved for current and future generations.
Please look to follow the communities of Atascadero, Paso Robles, and Cambria to name a fre
that have constructed new Pickleball facilities..
Sincerely,
Joan Jordan
Member, Women’s Tennis League
Atascadero, CA 93422
From:
To:Andrew Perez
Subject:Re: Inclusion of Urban Forest in General Plan
Date:Thursday, February 19, 2026 9:53:30 PM
Attachments:image001.png
emaillogo_190eb98f-3dbf-4ac8-a0d6-5f778ed0ba4d1111111111111111111111111111111111111.png
Hi Andrew,
Thank you for your response regarding the tree canopy. To ensure that Program HE-A transitions from a mere study to robust
implementation, I recommend the following refinements for the February 24th discussion:
1. Accelerate the Timeline: Move the canopy assessment from the 2030-2034 window to 2027-2029. This allows the city to
leverage current state grant cycles and coordinate with upcoming Measure E-24 road projects.
2. Prioritize Pedestrian Corridors: Amend the language to emphasize "high-volume pedestrian corridors and transit stops" (e.g.,
East Grand and Halcyon). Providing shade in these areas is not only a matter of health equity but also enhances transit usability.
3. Establish a Canopy Coverage Goal: Create specific targets for canopy coverage to guide urban forestry efforts. This would
ensure a proactive approach to expanding our tree canopy, like successful initiatives in other cities.
4. Development Mandates: Update the program to require all new developments (residential and commercial) to meet a minimum
"Canopy Coverage Percentage" at maturity. This ensures that as the city grows, the urban forest expands through private
investment.
5. Implement a Street Tree Master Plan: Initiate the development of a Street Tree Master Plan to identify areas needing canopy
coverage, standardize planting species, and establish maintenance protocols.
Thanks for your consideration of these suggestions.
Sincerely,
Peter Williamson
Arroyo Grande Resident
From: Andrew Perez <aperez@arroyogrande.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 4:14 PM
To:
Subject: RE: Inclusion of Urban Forest in General Plan
Good afternoon, Peter:
Thank you for the additional comment. We have a study session scheduled with City Council on 2/24, so your timing is perfect. Your
comments will be forwarded to City Council for consideration during that discussion. The Health and Equity element includes an
implementation measure to assess and potentially expand the existing tree canopy. If you have any suggestions regarding the language of
this implementation program or supporting policy, please send those thoughts my way. Thanks.
From:Cindy Kullman
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Tennis Court In Arroyo Grande
Date:Friday, February 20, 2026 7:17:14 AM
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To Whom it May Concern:
I am writing this letter not just to speak for myself but to stand with hundreds of other tennis
players that I have been connected with for many many years.
My name is Cindy Kullman and I have lived in Arroyo Grande for almost 30 years. I have
been playing tennis competitively since I was a teenager. I ran multiple tennis camps and
match play classes through the Arroyo Grande Parks and Recreation for approximately ten
years and absolutely loved teaching kids how to compete in tennis. Many of the kids I taught
went straight onto the varsity team High School Tennis Team at Arroyo Grande High School,
my son being one of them. It is crucial to have multiple courts to foster and make that
competition available for both doubles and singles. These 4 public courts are so important to
have, otherwise people have to pay very high prices to join clubs that some cannot afford to
join. The only other public courts that have multiple courts is in San Luis Obispo which is a
total inconvenience and hardship for people to drive to on a regular basis and even those
courts are usually full and people have to wait to get on them.
I have not only been active in youth tennis and bringing joy and love in competing, but I have
personally been a part of the Central Coast Women's Tennis League for 20 plus years. We
have 5 sons and we lost a child a few years ago. Competing and connecting with the tennis
community has saved me emotionally, physically and mentally. Many who are avid tennis
players also consider tennis a huge physical, social, and emotional outlet. My heart was
broken when I heard about the possibility of tennis courts being taken. The Central Coast
Women's Tennis League has been around for many years and these Soto Courts are necessary
for Arroyo Grande to even have teams. There are not enough public courts in San Luis Obispo
to sustain the amount of courts needed because of the large number of tennis players in the
area. I can't speak for everyone, but I personally do not have the finances to join a club which
would take me out of competing in our area. The other issue is the USTA Teams. We need
multiple courts for competition for these teams as well. Most tennis clubs will not allow non-
members to play on their teams which again takes many of us out of competing on a local
team.
We, as tennis players, would love to be part of a solution to be able to keep all four courts to
possibly pay yearly dues that might help build other pickleball courts in the future, but I hope
you will consider the things presented in this letter.
Sincerely,
Cindy Kullman
From:Claudia Westrum
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Urgent: Proposed Multiuse Conversion Will Terminate Local League Play
Date:Friday, February 20, 2026 1:52:37 PM
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Dear City Council,
I am writing on behalf of the Arroryo Grande Central Coast League to formally oppose
the proposal to convert two of our four existing tennis courts into multiuse spaces.
While we support the growth of all sports, this specific plan will unintentionally
eliminate competitive league tennis in our community.
1. The "Three-Court Minimum" for League Play
Most USTA and local regional leagues require a minimum of three dedicated tennis
courts to host a sanctioned match. By reducing our facility from four courts to two,
Arroyo Grande will be disqualified from hosting home matches. This forces our local
teams to travel elsewhere, effectively dissolving the league presence that has served
our residents for years.
2. Incompatibility of Multiuse Lines
In many regions, sanctioned competition is only permitted on courts with "authorized
markings". Adding pickleball or other lines to tennis courts can render them ineligible
for tournament or league use in certain sections, such as the USTA Southern Section.
3. Data-Driven Management & Sustainability
Our Association is currently undergoing a restructuring to implement 5 Cities Tennis
Association. This initiative will allow us to:
Track Participation: Generate precise data on the number of unique tennis players to
inform future city planning.
Self-Sustain: Use fees to contribute directly to court maintenance and resurfacing,
reducing the financial burden on the city.
Organized Growth: Since pickleball already has four dedicated courts, we propose a
"separate but equal" growth strategy that preserves the viability of both sports.
We urge the Council to maintain all four dedicated tennis courts to preserve our
eligibility for competitive play. We are ready.
Work on the framework to restart the 5 Cities Tennis Association.Sincerely,
Claudia Westrum
AG-CC WTL League Tennis Player
From:Libby
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Soto tennis courts
Date:Saturday, February 21, 2026 2:54:40 PM
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Please save the Soto tennis courts! They have been and should continue to be part of AG
community recreation. These courts are a place to enjoy healthful exercise and camaraderie. I
have played in the Central Coast Women’s Tennis League for 25+ years with some of the
matches being played on these courts.I know CCWTL organization is behind keeping the local
teams active at this location.
Thank you for voting to keep Soto tennis courts part of an active tennis community +
Libby Kerr
From:Colleen Thompson
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Soto Park Plan
Date:Sunday, February 22, 2026 4:53:28 PM
Dear City Council,
I am writing on behalf of Central Coast Tennis League to formally oppose the proposal to
convert two of our four existing courts into multi use spaces . While I support the growth of
any sport , I do not support taking away access to the citizens of a long time sport already in
existence. Also by taking away 2 of our courts this plan will unintentionally eliminate
competitive league tennis in our community.
Most USTA local regional leagues require three dedicated tennis courts to host a match.
Arroyo Grande will be disqualified to host matches . Central Coast Women’s Tennis League
requires four designed tennis courts for each home match . Pickleball or other lines to tennis
courts can render them ineligible .
As of now tennis players are in the process of restructuring and implementing the 5 Cities
Tennis Association . This league had been run for many years in the past and was very
successful. This association initiative will allow us to:
Track participation , organize growth and use fees to contribute directly to court
maintenance and resurfacing . As part of the AG Central Coast Tennis League Team , we
already clean the courts , recycle trash and added ball holders to each court.
I currently play tennis at Soto Park every Wednesday and Friday at 8:30 - 11:00. At that
time most , if not all the tennis courts , are full . I have noticed that pickleball courts are not
full or at least don’t have any players waiting. When I left the courts last week , there was a
lesson going on on one court and two high school or college age boys playing singles on
another court . Where will the young citizens of AG play tennis ? Also where is the data that
the pickleball courts are full at all times and the need for more ? Tennis should not require a
membership at a club to play competitively. We are proud to play other country clubs at our
city park.
Lastly, tennis is recognized by science as one of the healthiest, longest- living sports, with
studies indicating that it can increase life expectancy by nearly 10 years and reduce the risk of
mortality from cardiovascular disease by 56%.
Thank you for listening,
Sincerely,
Colleen Thompson
AG -CCWTL Tennis Player
From:Lynn Scott
To:City Council; Shannon Sweeney; Sheridan Bohlken; Andrew Perez; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Soto Tennis Courts
Date:Sunday, February 22, 2026 10:05:51 AM
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I am writing on behalf of the Arroyo Grande team of the Central Coast Women's
Tennis League (CCWTL with website ccwtl.org) to formally oppose the proposal to
convert one or two of our four existing tennis courts into multiuse spaces. While we
support the growth of all sports, this specific plan will unintentionally eliminate
competitive league tennis in our community.
1. The "Three-Court Minimum" for League Play
Most USTA and local regional leagues require a minimum of three dedicated tennis
courts to host a sanctioned match. By reducing our facility from four courts to two,
Arroyo Grande will be disqualified from hosting home matches. This forces our local
teams to travel elsewhere, effectively dissolving the league presence that has served
our residents for nearly 40 years.
2. Incompatibility of Multiuse Lines
In many regions, sanctioned competition is only permitted on courts with "authorized
markings". Adding pickleball or other lines to tennis courts can render them ineligible
for tournament or league use in certain sections, such as the USTA Southern Section.
3. Data-Driven Management & Sustainability
Our Association is currently undergoing a restructuring to re-implement 5 Cities
Tennis Association. This initiative will allow us to:
Track Participation: Generate precise data on the number of unique tennis players to
inform future city planning.
Self-Sustain: Use fees to contribute directly to court maintenance and resurfacing,
reducing the financial burden on the city.
Organized Growth: Since pickleball already has four dedicated courts, we propose a
"separate but equal" growth strategy that preserves the viability of both sports.
We urge the Council to continue to maintain all four dedicated tennis courts to
preserve our eligibility for competitive play and keep the 2 sports separated.
.
Thank you for reading.
Sincerely,
Lynn Scott
AG resident for 23 years
Former Captain (10 years) and current player Arroyo Grande A Division CCWTL
From:Lauren Sligh
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:General Plan Request- Organic Land Management
Date:Monday, February 23, 2026 12:01:23 AM
Attachments:image.png
bpmodelpublicpolicy (1).pdf
ntc_sampleresolution_organiclandcare.pdf
ntc_benefits_of_organic.pdf
General Plan Request- Organic Land Management - Google Docs.pdf
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Dear City Council Members,
I want to start by saying thank you, for taking the time to read my request and proposed
solutions. It was important to me to provide all documents and resources with this
intention, for you to have answers to questions that may come up.
Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Aileen about my concerns with pesticide use on
public land, and I greatly appreciate the compassion and interest she showed for my concerns.
She recommended I share an email as well as attend the meeting on Tuesday with my
proposal.
I am presenting to you a proposal to add into the general plan, to adopt Organic Land
Management Practices on public Arroyo Grande land.
Here is a quick list of why Organic Land Management will benefit our city:
Healthy soil retains water more efficiently, thus less irrigation needed, saving water
Less run off from top soil, refilling groundwater reservoirs
Cost savings- Organic practices save money in the long run, an investment for the future
Community involvement- Help "pull weeds" or pick up trash when people visit to take
ownership in caring for our parks (fun sign at each park explaining the mission and
education piece)
Opportunities to beautify landscapes, planting native species, supporting pollinators, etc
Eliminates contributing to pollution of streams and creeks with toxic fertilizers and
chemicals, further protecting steelhead trout, but all wildlife in general and the ocean
Cleaner groundwater, watershed, leading to more efficiency at water treatment plants
Factoring in environmental impact, public health considerations, and long-term
maintenance—organic practices represent both a fiscally responsible and
ethically sound path forward
This community of young children and their parents want to be involved! They want to help
with positive solutions and take action for the environment. There are hundreds of ways we
can enrich the lives of everyone by making these positive changes. While educating children
on how to protect this land for generations to come.
I am very passionate about collaborating to make this change for our community, and would
love to help in any way- many ideas for community involvement and how positive of a change
this would be for all. It is important I demonstrate to my children, adn all children, that change
is possible and to continue being a voice in your community for what is right.
Across the country, municipalities and institutions have already made this transition.
Organic land management practices are cost-effective and increasingly implemented
in communities throughout the United States. Examples include Harvard and Yale
Universities; Irvine, California; Springfield, Massachusetts; Montgomery County,
Maryland; Yellow Springs, Ohio; and many others. These communities demonstrate
that safer alternatives are not theoretical—they are practical and achievable.
My formal letter and attached documents on policy verbiage resources are
from www.nontoxiccommunities.com . A non-profit that has assisted hundreds of counties and
cities all over the states, to make organic land policy changes as smooth and effective as
possible.
Choosing safer practices is not just an environmental decision—it is a statement
about what we value as a community and how seriously we take our responsibility to
protect children.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and attention to this matter,
Sincerely,
Lauren Sligh
2/22/2026
Dear Arroyo Grande City Council Members:
Caren Ray Russom, Jamie Maraviglia, Kate Secrest, Aileen Loe, and Jim Guthrie,
I am writing in regard to my concerns about pesticide use in Arroyo Grande, specifically at
parks, playgrounds, schools, libraries, and other public spaces. I am taking this step to formally
raise these concerns and advocate for stronger protections for our community—beginning with
our children, their caretakers, and the land we all share.
I am a homeschooling mother of two young children and a resident of Arroyo Grande for ten
years. My awareness about chemical use on playgrounds began when my son was three years
old and my daughter a newborn. At Rancho Grande Park, they were playing around the base of
a tree, picking up dirt and enjoying the benefits of a hands-on experience with nature. Then I
realized the tree in the grass had a perfect yellow circle of dead grass around it. I looked around
and all the trees had been sprayed to keep a perfectly maintained look. I noticed the clear
evidence of pesticide all around, in the same space that many children played in on a regular
basis, the playground and park.
For a parent, this realization is deeply unsettling. Our children are meant to explore parks and
playgrounds with their hands and feet—touching, climbing, running freely. Seeing visible signs
of chemical spraying in those same spaces forces families to question whether the very places
designed for childhood are safe for children.
This experience two years ago made myself and other mothers in our community more aware of
parks throughout the City and surrounding areas, noticing how landscaping staff manage them.
We are choosing to limit exposure at playgrounds to protect our children from chemicals. This
should never be the case. Parents should not have to calculate risk with chemical exposure or
playing at parks. Playgrounds exist so children can develop physically, socially, and emotionally
without fear of preventable man-made harm. We have a close local family friend whose son is 5
years old and battling leukemia, likely caused by pesticides from living near agricultural land.
I am coming to you today, Council Members, to bring awareness to this simple need for
change—one that can have significant positive systemic impacts within our community and
environment as a whole. Currently, cancer-causing pesticides are sprayed at parks, schools,
and other public land, and there is no clear transparency regarding when spraying will occur or
when it has taken place. Families are left uninformed about exposures in areas intended for
“safe” daily use. It is time for our beautiful city to adopt Organic Land Management Standards or
an Earth Friendly Management Policy (EFMP) .
Please amend the General Plan to adopt the already established policy of other counties and
cities, for EFMP or Organic Land Care Management Standards. These standards are
designated by the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) involving only least toxic
pesticides be utilized in maintaining city owned property and that these practices be shared and
promoted for use by the public in encouraging maintaining private property throughout the
community. The Non-Profit group called Non Toxic Communities, has assisted over 40 states,
300 municipalities with policy changes to adopt an EFMP.
As you are vital decision makers, it is imperative that you become aware of the growing body of
scientific literature showing that pesticide exposure can adversely affect the endocrine,
neurological, immune, and respiratory systems in humans—even at very low levels—and
especially the danger and risk this poses for children.
Pesticides are designed to be toxic. The suffix “-cide” is derived from Latin and means “to kill.”
Of the most commonly used pesticides, nineteen are linked with cancer, twenty-one with
reproductive effects, thirteen with birth defects, twenty-six with liver or kidney damage, fifteen
with neurotoxicity, and eleven with disruption of the endocrine (hormonal) system. Research has
also demonstrated associations between certain pesticide exposures and increased risks of
developmental delays and childhood cancers. The cumulative impact of repeated low-level
exposure remains an area of serious public health concern.
Children are especially sensitive to pesticide exposure. They absorb more chemicals relative to
their body weight, are more physically engaged with their environment—running, touching, and
playing outdoors—and their bodies and brains are still developing. Acute and chronic
exposures, both high and low level, may cause damage during periods of critical developmental
vulnerability. Studies show that early-life exposure to certain pesticides is associated with
measurable impacts on cognitive development and behavioral regulation. When we expose
children to unnecessary environmental toxins, we assume risks on their behalf—risks they
cannot understand or consent to.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated, “Children’s exposure to pesticides should be
limited as much as possible.” In two thousand sixteen, dozens of public health experts stated in
a scientific consensus statement about children’s brain development that “the current system in
the United States for evaluating scientific evidence and making health-based decisions about
environmental chemicals is fundamentally broken. To help reduce the unacceptably high
prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders in our children, we must eliminate or significantly
reduce exposures to chemicals that contribute to these conditions.”
You have the authority to act where families cannot. You can play a key role in protecting those
most vulnerable and preventing diseases linked to pesticide exposure. There are proven
alternatives to using toxic pesticides in our public spaces, schools, and common areas.
Choosing safer practices is not just an environmental decision—it is a statement about what we
value as a community and how seriously we take our responsibility to protect children.
Across the country, municipalities and institutions have already made this transition. Organic
land management practices are cost-effective and increasingly implemented in communities
throughout the United States. Examples include Harvard and Yale Universities; Irvine,
California; Springfield, Massachusetts; Montgomery County, Maryland; Yellow Springs, Ohio;
and many others. These communities demonstrate that safer alternatives are not
theoretical—they are practical and achievable.
A cost comparison report between natural organic turf management and conventional
management further supports this shift. Organic management often saves money in the long
term due to reduced inputs, including decreased need for fertilizer and irrigation. When
evaluated holistically—factoring in environmental impact, public health considerations, and
long-term maintenance—organic practices represent both a fiscally responsible and ethically
sound path forward.
Preventing chemical use in public spaces will help reduce contamination in our water, reduce
chemical runoff into streams and the ocean, and result in a healthier city and community overall.
This is an achievable shift in product choices and management, combined with education and
research-based practices. Additionally, local landscapers and stores such as Miner ’s are
already selling organic spray options as alternatives to chemical pesticides, demonstrating that
our community supports continued momentum toward cleaner choices.
Sincerely,
Lauren Sligh
References
Pesticide-Induced Diseases Database http://www.beyondpesticides.org/resources/
pesticide-induced-diseases-database/overview
Health effects of 30 commonly used pesticides http://www.beyondpesticides.org/
assets/media/documents/lawn/factsheets/30health.pdf
Children and Pesticides Don’t Mix http://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/
documents/lawn/factsheets/Pesticide.children.dontmix.pdf
“Pesticide exposure in children.” Roberts, James R., and Catherine J. Karr. Pediatrics
130.6 (2012): e1765-e1788.
Children’s Exposure to Pesticides and Childhood Cancers https://www.aap.org/en-us/
about-the-aap/aap-press-room/pages/Children’s-Exposure-to-Pesticide-andChildhood-C
ancers.aspx
Children and chemicals, World Health Organization http://www.who.int/ceh/capacity/
chemicals.pdf
Project TENDR: Targeting Environmental Neuro-Developmental Risks The TENDR
Consensus Statement https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP358
Map of US Pesticide Reform Policies - pesticide policies adopted by local communities
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1VLpVWvifO2JOrgxf1-
d1DLyDruE&ll=29.015963011806722%2C-76.59037817578127&z=4
Resources
A Cost Comparison of Conventional (Chemical) Turf Management and Natural
(Organic) Turf Management for School Athletic Fields http://www.grassrootsinfo.org/pdf/
turfcomparisonreport.pdf
Beyond Pesticides list of products compatible with organic landscape management
https://beyondpesticides.org/programs/lawns-and-landscapes/tools-for-change/
products-compatible-with-organic-landscape-management
1
Model Public Pesticide-Free Policy/Ordinance
Section 1. Purpose.
Th e [enacting entity] hereby finds and declares that it shall be the policy of the
[locality name] to eliminate toxic pesticide use in and on public and private property in
order to promote a healthy environment and protect the public from the hazards of
pesticides, and for implementation of sustainable land and building managemen t practices
on all public and private property.
Section 2. Findings.
WHEREAS, scientific studies associate exposure to pesticides with asthma, cancer,
developmental and learning disabilities, nerve and immune system damage, liver or kidney
damage, reproductive impairment, birth defects, and disruption of the endocrine system;
WHEREAS, infants, children, pregnant women, the eld erly, people with compromised
immune systems and chemical sensitivities are especially vulnerable to pesticide effects
and exposure;
WHEREAS, pesticides are harmful to pets, wildlife including threatened and endangered
species, soil microb iology, plants, and natural ecosystems;
WHEREAS, toxic runoff from chemical fertilizers and pesticides pollute streams and lakes
and drinking water sources;
WHEREAS, the use of hazardous pesticid es is not necessary to create and maintain green
lawns and landscap es given the availability of viable alternatives practices and products;
WHEREAS, peop le have a right not to be involuntarily exposed to pesticides in the air,
water or soil that inevitably result from chemical drift and contaminated runoff;
WHEREAS, recognizing that if an emergency public health situation warrants the use of
pesticides, which would otherwise not be permitted under this policy, the Sustainability
Coordinator shall have the authority to grant a temporary waiver on a case by case basis
after an evaluation of all alternative methods and materials.
2
WHEREAS, sustainable land and building managemen t practices that emphasize non-
chemical methods of pest prevention and management and least-toxic pesticide use as a
last resort will eliminate the use of and exposure to pesticides while controlling pest
populations;
WHEREAS, sustainable land and building management practices complements other
important goals of [locality name] maintenance and administration, such as energy
conservation and security; and
WHEREAS, [locality name] embraces a precautionary approach to the use of toxic
pesticides in order to adequately protect peop le and the environmen t from
pesticid es' harmful effects.
Section 3. Definitions.
Allowed Materials List. The Executive must include in the regulations adopted under this
section a list of acceptable pesticides, known as the Allowed Materials List. The list is limited
to:
(A) All nonsynthetic (natural) materials, with the exception of prohibited
nonsynthetic materials under 7 CFR 205.602;
(B) Any synthetic material listed at 7 CFR 205.601 that is labeled for turf uses,
subject to discretionary authority to require disclosure of inert ingredients; and
(C) 25b listed pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide
Act (FIFRA).
Agricultural Land – means land that lies in an agricultural zoning district.
Crack and Crevice Treatment — means the application of small quantities of a pesticide
into openings in a building such as those commonly found at expansion joints, between
levels of construction, and between equipment and floors.
Emergency – means an urgent need to mitigate or eliminate a pest that threatens public
health or safety.
Garden – means a plot of land, except agricultural land, consistin g of a majority of annual
plants.
Grounds – means the area outside of a building, including lawns, playground s, sports
fields, and any other property or facility controlled, managed, leased or owned by [locality
name].
3
Inert ingredient – Any substance (or group of substances with similar chemical
structures if designated by the Environmental Protection Agency) (EPA) other than an
active ingredient which is intentionally included in any pesticide product (40 CFR
152.3(m)) [7 CFR 205.2 Terms defined.], and are not classified by the Administrator of
EPA as inerts of toxicological concern. [7 U.S.C. 6502(21) Definitions]
Lawn – means an area of land, except agricultural land, that is: (i) mostly covered by grass,
grass, other similar herbaceou s plants, shrubs, or trees; and (ii) kept trim by mowing or
cutting.
Nonsynthetic (natural) materials – A substance that is derived from mineral, plant, or
animal matter and does not undergo a synthetic process as defined in section 6502(21) of
the Organic Foods Production Act (7 U.S.C. 6502(21)). For the purposes of this p art,
nonsynthetic is used as a synonym for natural as the term is used in the ordinance. [7 CFR
205.2 Terms defined.]
Pesticide – any substance or mixture of substances intended for—(i) preventing,
destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest; (ii) use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or
desiccant; or (iii) use as a spray adjuvant such as a wetting agent or adhesive. The term
‘pesticide’ does not include cleaning products, other than those that contain pesticidal
agen ts.
Sustainability Coordinator – means an individual who is designated by the City of [locality
name] to oversee implementation of the sustainable land and building management
practices for the City.
Sustainable Land and Building Management Practices – means a managed pest control
program that:
(A) eliminates or mitigates economic and health damage caused by pests;
(B) uses— (i) integrated method s; (ii) site or pest inspections; (iii) pest
population monitoring and prevention strategies; (iv) an evaluation of the need
for pest con trol; and, (v) 1 or more pest prevention and management methods,
such as habitat modifications, sanitation practices, entryway closures, structural
repair, mechanical and biological controls, effe ctive mowing, watering and
fertilizing practices that provide a healthy soil, other nonchemical methods, and
if nontoxic options are unreasonable or have been exhausted, a pesticide on the
allowed materials list; and
(C) minimizes— (i) the use of pesticides; and (ii) the hazards to human health
and the environment associated with pesticide application s.
4
Synthetic materials – The term “synthetic” means a substance that is formulated or
manufactured by a chemical process or by a process that chemically changes a substance
extracted from naturally occurring plant, animal, or mineral sources, except that such term
shall not apply to substances created by naturally occurring biological processes. [7 U.S.C.
6502(21) Definitions]
Universal Notification – means notice provided by the Sustainability Coordinator to all
employees working at the facility where the pesticide will be applied.
Sec. 4. Sustainable Land and Building Management Practices Components.
(1) In General.—Each City department shall implemen t sustainable land and building
management practices, that at a minimum—
(A) Applies to [locality name] controlled, managed, or owned
buildings and grounds;
(B) Establishes a Sustainability Coordinator within the [City Department]
responsible for carrying out sustainable land and building management
practices; and
(C) Follows sustainable land and building management practices for addressing
pest problems.
(2) Duties of the Sustainability Coordinator.—The Sustainability Coordinator shall—
(A) Oversee the implementation of sustainable land and building
management practices;
(B) Act as a contact for inquiries about the sustainable land and
building management practices;
(C) Maintain and make publicly available material safety data sheets, labels, and
fact sheets or other official health and safety information for all pesticides on the
allowed materials list;
(D) Maintain a make publicly available the allowed materials list of
pesticides that may be used in emergen cies that are not classified as
allowed under this law;
(D) Have the authority to determine whether to add or remove a pesticide from
a designation on the allowed materials list, based on essentiality in pest control
or harm to human health or the environmental which is not captured by the
current allowed materials list.
5
(E) Be informed of Federal and State chemical health and safety information
and con tact information;
(F) Maintain scheduling of all pesticide use by [locality name];
(G) Maintain contact with Federal and State sustainable land and
building management experts;
(H) Obtain periodic updates and training from State sustainable land and
building management experts;
(I) Pre-approve any public health emergency pesticide applications;
(J) Maintain all pesticide use data for each pesticide used at City buildings and
grounds for at least 3 years after the date on which the pesticide is applied; and,
(K) Oversee the implementation of a public outreach and education campaign
before and during implementation of the provisions of this Article. This campaign
should include:
(i) informational mailers to [locality name] households;
(ii) distribution of information through [locality name] internet and web-
based resources;
(iii) radio and television public service announcements
(iv) news releases and news even ts;
(v) information translated into Spanish, French, Chinese, Korean,
Vietnamese, and other languages, as needed;
(vi) extensive use of local public access channels funded by the [locality
name]; and,
(vii) posters and brochures made available at [locality name] events, publicly
owned transportation, libraries, recreation facilities, senior centers, public
schools, colleges, health care providers, hospitals, clinics, and other venues.
(3) Property Owners and Tenants.
(A) Property owners and tenants are encouraged to follow sustainable land
and building management practices and employ pesticides on the allowed
materials list only as a last resort.
(4) Use of Pesticides. — [Name of locality] shall only use pesticides on the allowed materials
list as part of sustainable land and building management practices. A pesticide on the
allowed materials list may only be used as a last resort and only if the area or room treated
is unoccupied or not in use by an employee or the public. Pesticides are only to be applied
by certified commercial applicators.
6
(5) Use of Fertilizers.— [Name of locality] shall only use natural organic fertilizers. The use
of a synthetic fertilizer is prohibited.
(6) Public Health Emergency.—
(A) In General.—If the Sustainability Coordinator determines that a pest in a
[jurisdiction] building or on the grounds cannot be controlled after having used
sustainable land and building management practices and least toxic pesticides
and it is a public health emergency, [locality name] may use a pesticide in
accordance with this subsection .
(B) Sustainability Coordinator Approval Required.—The Sustainability
Coordinator shall approve, after identifying the pesticide product ingredients and
acute and chronic adverse health effects, the pesticide product before any public
health emergency application can be made.
(C) Area Use Limitation.—The use of an area or room treated by an emergency
pesticide, other than an allowed materials list, shall not be occupied or used at
the time of application or during the 24-hour period beginning at the end of the
application.
(D) Authorized Applicator.—The pesticide application shall only be made by a
State certified pesticide applicator.
(E) Notification of Occupants and Users.—The Sustainability Coordinator shall
provide to each employee of the facility/grounds where the application is to
take place a notice of the application of th e pesticide for emergency pest
control. Notification will be provided at least 24 hours prior to the application.
The notification shall include—
(i) the common name, trade name, and Environmental Protection Agency
registration number of the pesticide;
(ii) a description of the location of the application of the pesticide;
(iii) a description of the date and time of application;
(iv) the statement ‘The EPA cannot guarantee that registered pesticides do
not pose risks, and unnecessary exposure to pesticides shou ld be avoided’;
(v) a description of potential adverse effects of the pesticide based on the
material safety data sheet of the pesticide any additional warning
information related to the pesticide;
(vi) the name and telephone number of the Sustainability Coordinator;
(vii) a description of the problem and the factors that qualified the problem
as an emergency that threatened public health; and
(viii) a description of the steps the [jurisdiction] will take in the future to
avoid emergency application of a pesticide under this paragraph.
7
(F) Method Of Universal Notification.— Th e Su stainability Coordinator shall
provide the notice by— (i) written notice provided to each employee; (ii) a notice
delivered electronically (such as throu gh electronic mail or facsimile); (iii) a
telephone call; or (iv) direct contact.
(G) Posting Of Signs.— If applying a pesticide under this paragraph, the
Sustainability Coordinator shall post a sign warning of the application of the
pesticide —in a prominent pla ce that is in or adjacent to the location to be treated;
and at each entrance to the building or ground to be treated. A sign required for
the application of a pesticide shall remain posted for at least 72 hours after the end
of the treatment; be at least 81⁄2 inches by 11 inches; and state the same
information as that required for prior notification of the application under
subparagraph (E).
(H) Modification Of Sustainable Land and Building Management Practices. — If
the [Locality name] applies a pesticide under this paragraph, the
Sustainability Coordinator shall modify the sustainable land and building
management practices to minimize the future applications of pesticides under this
paragraph.
Section 5. Grounds Management Implementation Guidelines.
It is the policy of the City of [name of locality] to take the following preventive measures
to eliminate pest-conducive conditions on public and private land:
(A) To maintain healthy soil, soil sampling and analysis will be conducted to evaluate
and assess the level of care needed for the facility’s turf and landscape.
(B) Well-adapted, pest-resistant grass varieties that are more suitable for [
[locality name’s] climate will be planted.
(C) Lawn aeration will be scheduled twice a year.
(D) De-thatching practices must keep the thatch layers less than ½” in order to
keep the grass less susceptible to insects, disease and weather stress.
(E) A proper pH for the soils will be maintained.
The soil should be tested in order to adjust the pH if needed.
(F) Annual fall fertilizer applications will be scheduled and carried out. Only slow -
release fertilizer formulation s will be used.
(G) Approved soil amendments will be applied as necessitated by soil test results.
Following, but not limited to, the recommendations of the Northeast Organic
Farmers’ Association and/or the Organic Material Review Institute.
(H) Outd oor management pra ctices will be modified to comply with organic
horticultural science, including scouting, monitoring, watering, pruning,
proper spacing and mulching.
(I) Practices will include the u se of physical con trols, including hand-
weeding and over-seeding.
8
(J) Practices will also include the use of biological controls, including the
introduction of natural predators, and enhancement of a favorable environment
for a pest’s natural enemies.
Section 6. Enforcement.
(A) [Locality name] shall be responsible for the enforcement of this act and
its agents shall be authorized to issue statements of offense;
(B) Officials of [locality name] may visit and examine any property to ascertain
whether there has been compliance with the provi sions of this act.
(C) The City can take any legal action before the appropriate court in order
to obtain compliance with this act.
(D) Any citizen may commence a civil action on his own behalf— (i) against any
p erson who is alleged to be in violation of (a) a standard or limitation under this
ch apter or (b) an order issued by the [local jurisdiction] with respect to such a
standard or limitation , or (ii ) against the State where there is alleged a failure of
the State to perform any act or duty under this chapter which is not discretionary
with the State in accordance with the deadlines established by this chapter.
(E) Each application of a pesticide violates the restrictions of this code shall be
considered a municipal infraction, with penalties determined by the City.
Section 7. And Be It Further Enacted that this Act shall take effect as of the date of the
[insert number] months from its passage.
Why are so many Cities
across the Country adopting
Organic Land Care Practices?
www.NonToxicCommunities.com
Because of the Benefits!
The NOFA Standards for Organic Land Care provide the information
needed to base local policy and pilot programs on.
Non Toxic Communities is experienced and accredited to provide the assistance
you need to take these proven methods and get them implemented
in your community. Don’t go it alone, we can help!
Every community deserves healthy public spaces for all residents.
● Organic Land Care eliminates exposure
to toxic materials in our landscapes for
children, workers and all others using
public spaces.
● Fits into climate action plans by
improving soil health to store and
draw down more carbon from the
atmosphere.
● Prevents nutrient pollution from
synthetic fertilizers that cause algae
blooms in our watersheds.
● Avoids potential liability and lawsuits
over toxic product usage.
● Protects pollinators, song birds and
other wildlife.
● Healthy soil holds more water and
reduces the need for irrigation and
assists in managing storm water
run off.
● Sets a positive example for landowners
in the community to follow, enhances
educational opportunities and
public image.
● Provides respite to those who may
be disproportionately affected by
environmental exposures.
● Saves money over the long term due to
a reduced need for irrigation, fertilizer,
and other inputs.
WHEREAS: The City of ______________ is committed to eliminating the exposure of our
citizens, both children and adults, to chemicals that are known, or suspected to be, toxins or
carcinogens, while striving to lead our community by example and by promotion of policies,
regulations and practices that eliminate exposure to toxic compounds; and
WHEREAS: Organic land care practices using only non-toxic methods is a proven practice
that establishes an approach to managing with a focus on soil health, cultural practices and
mechanical and/or physical controls to eliminate the need for using toxic pesticides; and
WHEREAS: Organic land care requires accurate pest identification, frequent monitoring for
pest presence, determining appropriate action levels, and properly combining biological,
cultural, physical, and, only when deemed necessary, use of least toxic pesticides in a way
that minimizes health, environmental, and economic risks; and
WHEREAS: Organic land care will reduce both the presence of toxics from synthetic pesticides
in the environment of our City, but will also reduce the introduction of unnecessary nutrients
from synthetic fertilizer into the watershed of ______________.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
It shall be the policy of the City of ___________ to commit to utilize organic land care practices,
and the use of least toxic compounds only when necessary, in the maintenance and protection
of City property, as such taking a precautionary approach and thereby minimizing, if not elimi-
nating, exposure to toxic pesticides on the part of our citizens and the environment;
AND, FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED;
The City ______________ shall seek assistance from organic land care expert(s) to develop
and execute a multi-year plan to eliminate the use of synthetic fertilizers and toxic pesticides
on City property and ensure that municipal workers receive appropriate training in organic
land care practices.
Sample Resolution:
ORGANIC LAND CARE
www.NonToxicCommunities.com
Background Information
This resolution requires that organic land manage-
ment practices, according to Organic Land Care
Standards as designated by the Northeast Organic
Farming Association (NOFA) involving only least
toxic pesticides be utilized in maintaining City
owned property and that these practices be shared
and promoted for use by the public in maintaining
private property throughout the community.
There are numerous resources that tabulate lists
of least toxic products, (e.g., the United States
Environmental Protection Agency’s minimum
risk products list or materials listed as organic
by non-profit organizations such as the Organic
Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and NOFA
Standards) to facilitate the choice of materials
that are preferred, allowed and prohibited.
Organic land care is an effective and environmentally
sensitive approach to pest and turf management
that relies on a combination of common-sense
best management practices without the use of
toxic pesticides.
Toxic pesticides are harmful to human health, pets
and the environment. Organic land care protects
public health and our watershed from degradation
and contamination. For purposes of example, the
widely used neonicotinoid class of systemic insec-
ticides (neonics) are persistent in the environment,
harm pollinator health, move into surface waters
and up the food chain affecting songbirds and
mammals. Emerging evidence shows harm to the
developing brain and hormone disrupting activity
by some neonics.
Organic land care uses current, comprehensive
information on the life cycles of pests and their
interaction with the environment. This information,
in combination with a variety of pest control meth-
ods, is used to manage pest damage by economical
means, and with minimal hazard to people, property,
and the environment.
Synthetic fertilizers harm soil biology, and contribute
to greenhouse gas emissions as well as inhibiting the
carbon storing ability of the soil. In light of climate
change, organic land care is a necessary step for-
ward in addressing this crisis. Organic land care plays
a key role in a municipality’s climate change action
plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
More careful application of organic fertilizers as
part of an organic land care program by the City
will decrease our contribution of excess nutrients to
the watershed that contribute to the proliferation
of toxic algae blooms to adjacent bodies of water.
In addition, organic land care also helps mitigate
stormwater runoff.
Organic land care standards emphasize the use
of native plants, thereby helping to reduce risk of
wildfire, store more carbon, support biodiversity,
and conserve water for irrigation.
Promotion of this policy of organic land manage-
ment protects the safety of municipal workers,
limits the potential for claims against negligence,
litigation and financial liability, and also demon-
strates to the community at large that the City is a
leader in the stewardship of our natural resources.
Precautionary Principle: When an activity
raises threats of harm to human health or the
environment, precautionary measures should
be taken even if some cause and effect rela-
tionships are not fully established scientifically.
In this context the proponent of an activity,
rather than the public, should bear the burden
of proof.
The process of applying the Precautionary Prin-
ciple must be open, informed and democratic
and must include potentially affected parties.
It must also involve an examination of the full
range of alternatives, including no action.
www.NonToxicCommunities.com
Resources
NOFA Standards for Organic Land Care
http://organiclandcare.net/sites/default/files/nofa_organic_land_care_standards_6thedition_2017_opt.pdf
OMRI Lists
https://www.omri.org/omri-lists
Active Ingredients Eligible for Minimum Risk Pesticide Products
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-12/documents/minrisk-active-ingredients-tolerances-2015-12-15.pdf
Inert Ingredients Eligible for FIFRA 25(b) Pesticide Products
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-11/documents/minrisk_inert_ingredients_w_tolerances_2016-11-16.pdf
Beyond Pesticides Products Compatible With Organic Landscape Management
https://www.beyondpesticides.org/programs/lawns-and-landscapes/tools-for-change/products-compatible-with-organic-land-
scape-management
NTC Facts About Neonicotinoid Insecticides
http://www.nontoxiccommunities.com/uploads/7/0/8/2/7082006/factsaboutneonicotinoid_insecticides_.pdf
NTC Facts about Fertilizers
http://www.nontoxiccommunities.com/uploads/7/0/8/2/7082006/fertilizersfactsheetntc.pdf
California Native Plant Society Native Plant Landscaping to Reduce Wildfire Risk
https://interwork.sdsu.edu/fire/curricula/documents/NativePlantstoReduceFireRisk.pdf
Exotic plants reduce carbon sequestration
https://science.sciencemag.org/content/368/6494/967
National Audubon Society Why Native Plants Matter
https://www.audubon.org/content/why-native-plants-matter
www.NonToxicCommunities.com
From:Maggie Browning
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Soto Tennis Courts
Date:Tuesday, February 24, 2026 7:41:49 AM
IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from
this sender
My name is Maggie Browning and I am the current president of the Central Coast Women’s
Tennis League. Our league currently supports 443 players across 27 teams played at 7 central
coast venues. One of the venues supporting a thriving CCWTL team is Soto Sports Park. Our
league matches require four courts to be available which is exactly what Soto currently
provides. Should we lose any of the current courts, Soto would no longer be able to support a
CCWTL team. Of the venues utilized by CCWTL, Soto is one of only two public courts, the
other being Sinsheimer in San Luis Obispo. All other tennis venues are private clubs. Should
we lose Soto, it would provide a barrier to women who are interested in league tennis
competition without a paid club membership.
I am an avid tennis player. I also love playing pickleball. I ask that courts at Soto be
preserved for tennis to allow current members and future tennis players the opportunity for
public court league play. May tennis and pickleball continue to support one another with new
courts provided for pickleball as demand requires instead of taking exisiting courts away from
tennis players who utilize them regularly.
Thanks for your consideration of our tennis community.
Maggie Browning
President - CCWTL
From:Diane Braun
To:City Council; Matt Downing; Jessica Matson; Bill Robeson
Subject:Item 11d - Tennis Courts at Soto
Date:Tuesday, February 24, 2026 10:41:49 AM
IRONSCALES couldn't recognize this email as this is the first time you received an email from
this sender
Hello all, and thank you for your consideration of public points of view as it relates to the
General Plan for Soto Sports Complex.
My name is Diane Braun and I am the Captain of the Arroyo Grande "A" Team for the Central
Coast Women's Tennis League (CCWTL) based out of Soto Sports Complex. This local team
is one of only two teams in the league where players can participate in competitive tennis
without having to pay for a Club membership! (The other is at Sinsheimer Park up in SLO,
about 30 minutes north of AG.) It is invaluable to many who absolutely LOVE tennis and
want to compete on a regular basis. And all ages are welcome, as our team members range
from 21 to 80 years old!!
Our team regularly plays twice a week (on Wednesday and Friday mornings) for about 3 hours
at a time. I think I can speak for all 20+ members that we were shocked to find out that we
may be losing one or two of our courts to pickleball!! The ramification of that would be
heartbreaking!
1) We could no longer play competitive matches in the
CCWTL because 4 dedicated tennis courts are required
for each match.
2) If we cannot offer 4 courts for Home Matches (of which we
host anywhere from 6-8 per season), then we cannot have
a team!
3) This would disenfranchise MANY women in the area who
LIVE AND BREATHE tennis but would no longer have a
home base with which to play from.
Many of our tennis players also play pickleball and love both! But I think the bottom line is
that we need to find a solution that doesn't expand one sport at the detriment of the other.
Multi-use lines may seem like a simple solution, but it will not work for competition, and that
is the lifeblood that keeps us invigorated both physically and mentally. For many in my circle,
tennis is a salvation!!
I truly hope you all consider the tennis player point of view as you make your decisions. I
implore you to preserve the 4 tennis courts at Soto to allow current members and future tennis
players the opportunity for public court league play. We are all willing to help find and
implement a solution that allows for ALL to flourish.
Thank you again for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Diane Braun
Captain, CCWTL AG "A" Team
(