HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-10-11; City Council; Resolution 2022-245RESOLUTION NO. 2022-245
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE CARLSBAD STRATEGIC PLAN 2023-2027
WHEREAS, on December 13, 2021, the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California held a
special meeting to begin the process of developing a 5-Year Strategic Plan and identified the plan's
areas of focus to include:
Community character
Quality of life and safety
Sustainability and the natural environment
Economic vitality
Organizational excellence and fiscal health; and
WHEREAS, on March 16, 2022, the City Council held a strategic planning workshop and
reviewed input gathered from the community in the 5-Year Strategic Plan Public Input Report; and
WHEREAS, on April 20, 2022, the City Council received a report on city finances and financial
projections over the next 10 years, as well as the results of research regarding potential local revenue
enhancement measures to fund essential municipal services and facilities; and
WHEREAS, on April 20, April 26, and May 3, 2022, the City Council reviewed a list of 168 Capital
Improvement Program projects that are currently prioritized to be advanced or completed over the
next five years; and
WHEREAS, the 5-Year Strategic Plan identifies the City Council's goals and objectives to be
accomplished during the 2023-2027 timeframe; and
WHEREAS, the 5-Year Strategic Plan identifies the work the city expects to complete on capital
improvement projects during the 2023-2027 timeframe; and
WHEREAS, the 5-Year Strategic Plan identifies the core services the city expects to maintain
during the 2023-2027 timeframe; and
WHEREAS, the 5-Year Strategic Plan will serve as a guide to city staff in preparing the city's
annual budget and department workplans during the 2023-2027 timeframe.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as
follows:
1.That the above recitations are true and correct.
2.That the Carlsbad Strategic Plan 2023-2027 shown in Attachment A is hereby approved
and adopted.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of
Carlsbad on the 11th day of October, 2022, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Norby.
None.
Hall.
� MATT HALL, Mayor
r FAVIOLA MEDINA, City Clerk Services Manager
(SEAL)
I
STRATEGIC PLAN
2023 -2027
{city of Carlsbad
Attachment A
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 2
ABOUT THIS PLAN 2
STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS 3 PLAN STRUCTURE 4
SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION 5
TRANSPARENCY & ACCOUNTABILITY 6
CARLSBAD COMMUNITY VISION 7 CORE SERVICES 8
2023-2027 STRATEGIC GOALS 9
GOAL 1: COMMUNITY CHARACTER
GOAL 2 : QUALITY OF LIFE AND SAFETY
GOAL 3 : SUSTAINABILITY AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
GOAL 4 : ECONOMIC VITALITY
GOAL 5 : ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE AND FISCAL HEALTH
APPENDICES 22
COMMUNITY INPUT REPORT
EXISTING POLICIES & PLANS
ONGOING CAPITAL PROJECTS
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEWS
2
INTRODUCTION
The City of Carlsbad is ideally situated in north San Diego County, where a great climate, beautiful beaches and
lagoons, and abundant natural open space combine with world-class resorts, a thriving and diverse business
community, and well planned neighborhoods to create the ideal California experience.
Covering nearly 40 square miles and home to about 115,000 residents, the City of Carlsbad is governed by a five-
person City Council who, along with a dedicated workforce led by a professional City Manager, work toward one
key purpose: To enhance the lives of all who live, work and play in our city by setting the standard for providing
top quality, efficient local government services.
ABOUT THIS PLAN
The purpose of this strategic plan is to focus city
resources to fulfil the Carlsbad community’s vision for
the future. For many years, the Carlsbad City Council
engaged in an annual goal-setting process to identify
high priority projects and initiatives toward this end. In
2021, the City Council decided to instead create a 5-
Year Strategic Plan to accomplish several important
objectives:
Focus
The City Council understands that if everything is a priority, then nothing is.
Choosing five goals for a five-year period allows resources to be focused,
increasing results.
Momentum
Provide clear and consistent policy direction to city staff, enabling the
momentum needed to achieve major goals important to the Carlsbad
community.
Alignment
Create better alignment between City Council policy direction and the
operational realities of day to day city operations.
Connection
Connect everything the city does to the fulfilment of the community’s vision,
from core services to major construction projects to aspirational policy goals.
Accountability
Identify key indicators of success that are measurable and transparent.
3
STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS
The City of Carlsbad engaged The Centre for Organization Effectiveness to assist with the development of the
strategic plan. To create the plan, the city took an inclusive approach by inviting a wide range of stakeholders to
provide input at multiple milestones during the process.
4
PLAN STRUCTURE
The 5-Year Strategic Plan includes high level goals, objectives, projects and service commitments that support the
Carlsbad Community Vision. Specific work plans and resource allocations are developed each year and included in
the city’s annual budget.
Aspirational statement that
supports one or more of the
community values in the
Carlsbad Community Vision
Capital Improvement Program
(major construction) projects
that support goals
Major initiatives/areas of
focus to achieve the goal
Day to day city services that will
continue to be provided at a
high level to achieve the goal
Indicators of success. Things
that can be measured to show
progress
5
SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION
This success of this strategic plan depends on everyone involved understanding their roles in realizing the city’s
goals over the next five years.
City Council
Provides policy direction, allocates sufficient resources, and limits competing direction
that could divert attention from the five goals. Adopts annual budget and work plan
that supports 5-Year Strategic Plan.
Boards, Commissions & Committees
Understand the five goals of the strategic plan and create and implement annual work
plans to support them.
City Manager
Aligns and deploys resources to achieve the goals of the strategic plan. Ensures all city
employees understand how their work supports the 5-Year Strategic Plan. Notifies City
Council if adjustments are needed due to unforeseen events and resource constraints.
Informs the City Council if new direction could interfere with achieving the goals of the
5-Year Strategic Plan. Tracks and reports status of key performance indicators and
makes operational adjustments as needed to ensure measures will be achieved.
City workforce
Understands how their day to day work supports the 5-Year Strategic Plan. Alerts
supervisors of opportunities to increase alignment with the plan goals and potential
roadblocks so they can be overcome.
Community members
Learn about the 5-Year Strategic Plan and provide ongoing feedback that will help
ensure the five goals are achieved. Engage in the annual budget process to monitor
progress and help guide short term priorities for alignment with five goals.
6
TRANSPARENCY & ACCOUNTABILITY
Alignment with the City Council 5-Year Strategic Plan will become an integral part of everything the city does,
highlighted through the following:
Public dashboard
City staff will develop a digital dashboard to track and display progress on strategic
plan goals, with a focus on key performance indicators. This dashboard will be
available on an ongoing basis and highlighted during the annual budget process.
Annual budget process
During the annual budget process, the City Council will have an opportunity to review
the plan’s progress and provide direction on any adjustments and refinements desired,
keeping in mind the importance of remaining focused and building momentum around
the goals identified in the plan. City staff will propose a work plan and budget each year that focuses on the goals of the 5-Year Strategic Plan.
Goal visibility
City staff will highlight strategic plan goals in staff reports and presentations to the City
Council and its boards, commissions and committees. This will help reinforce
alignment between the day to day work and the 5-Year Strategic Plan and
demonstrate to the public how city resources are supporting the plan.
Adaptation
The 5-Year Strategic Plan is intended to provide consistent focus on five key goals to
build the momentum needed to achieve results. However, the city operates in a
dynamic environment and must take into account unanticipated needs, changing
community priorities and emergencies, all of which could require a different allocation
of resources. As such, the City Council may direct staff to update its strategic plan
during the five-year implementation period, with the understanding that city staff will
inform the City Council of how any updates could affect the achievement of the five
priority goals.
7
CARLSBAD COMMUNITY VISION
Carlsbad is guided by nine core values that make up the community’s vision for the future. These values were
identified over 10 years ago through a collaborative process with the community and have been reaffirmed over
the years through regular check-ins and ongoing community engagement.
8
CORE SERVICES
The city fulfills its purpose and supports the Community Vison every day
through the collective work and contributions of the city workforce who
focus on the core services and functions of municipal government. Even with the best strategic plan, the City of Carlsbad would not be the city it is
today without a firm commitment to providing these core services at a
very high level of quality. And, from a resource perspective, these
ongoing services represent the vast majority of the city’s annual budget.
Without this attention to high quality work and dedicated employees,
those who live, work, and play in Carlsbad would not be able to enjoy the
parks, trails, open space, libraries, arts, clean and safe water, well-maintained streets, and the peace of mind
knowing they are safe.
This plan is focused on achieving five goals over the next five years, and those goals are described in the pages
ahead. Ongoing core services and major projects that support the goals are included in each section, along with
new initiatives. By including new and ongoing work, this plan helps connect everything the city does, creating more
alignment and enabling momentum to build around those things most important to the community.
Even with the best strategic plan, the
City of Carlsbad would not be the city
it is today without a firm
commitment to providing the highest
level of service
Even with the best strategic plan, the
City of Carlsbad would not be the city
it is today without a firm
commitment to providing the highest
level of service
9
2023-2027 STRATEGIC GOALS
The Carlsbad City Council has endorsed the Strategic Goals, Objectives, Capital Improvement
Projects and Core Services to be prioritized over the next five years. Progress on specific
projects and objectives, ongoing service levels, and a variety of Key Performance Indicators, will
be tracked and reported on to demonstrate achievement of the Strategic Goals.
In 5 years …
Even though the city has grown and changed, residents agree that it still has the small-
town beach community character and connectedness that made them want to live here
in the first place. Diverse community members of all ages enjoy participating in the wide
array of programs and events offered by the city, where they run into neighbors, meet
new friends and, mostly importantly, feel welcome and included.
Key performance indicators _____________________________________________________________
Resident responses to survey questions related to community character
Participation in civic engagement opportunities
Participation in city library, arts and recreation programs and events
Number of volunteer hours
Strategic objectives _______________________________________________________________________
1 Work with the community to develop a new approach to maintain quality of life while
managing growth in Carlsbad, consistent with state law.
2 Develop objective design standards for multifamily housing throughout the city.
3 Create opportunities for more affordable housing in Carlsbad by implementing the policies and
programs in the 2021-2029 Housing Element.
4
Work with the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and the North County Transit
District (NCTD) to prioritize, determine costs, and work with state and federal representatives
to seek funding for preliminary design and technical studies for lowering the railroad tracks in
the Village.
5 Develop, implement and promote programs that enhance wellness, socialization, inclusion and
active living.
10
6 Implement the policies and programs in the following city plans based on annual budget
appropriations by the City Council:
Age-Friendly Action Plan
Arts & Culture Master Plan
Carlsbad General Plan
Local Coastal Program
Homeless Goal Work Plan
Parks & Recreation Master Plan
Library Strategic Plan
Trails Master Plan
Village and Barrio Master Plan
Homeless Response Plan
Priority Projects __________________________________________________________
The city expects to complete the following work on Capital Improvement projects to support this goal through
2027:
• Complete design work for the Monroe Street Pool Renovation and Replacement Project
• Complete design and permitting for the South Carlsbad Boulevard Realignment between Manzano Drive
and Island Way
• Complete conceptual design for the South Carlsbad Coastline Project
• Complete plans, specifications, bidding and construction of Veterans Memorial Park
• Complete conceptual design/master plan and permitting for Robertson Ranch Community Park
• Complete conceptual design/master plan for Business Park Recreational Facility (Zone 5 Park)
• Complete design and construction of a community garden at Stagecoach Community Park
• Complete the installation of additional pedestrian lighting throughout the Village as part of the Carlsbad
Village Lighting Study
• Complete a feasibility study to make Tyler Street in the Barrio one-way
• Complete construction of five new traffic circles and other traffic calming measures in two other
intersections in the Barrio
• Complete a feasibility study for turning part of Grand Avenue into a pedestrian only “Grand Promenade”
• Enhance existing crosswalks on Carlsbad Boulevard between Mountain View Drive and Tamarack Avenue
• Begin construction of walking, biking and traffic improvements (includes a roundabout at the intersection
of Cannon Road and Carlsbad Boulevard), and a new blufftop gathering area in the Terramar area
• Implement a new intelligent parking program in the Village
• Initiate the installation of new pedestrian lighting along main sidewalks in the Barrio
• Enhance bike lanes by adding green paint to conflict areas at various locations citywide including Carlsbad
Boulevard, La Costa Avenue, Cannon Road and Jefferson Street
• Audio-visual upgrade/replacement for Schulman Auditorium and Cannon Gallery
11
Core services _____________________________________________________________________________
The city will maintain the following high levels of service annually in support of this goal:
• Maintain 432 acres of community parks and special use areas, and 51 miles of open space trails
• Provide a diverse array of affordable recreation, library and arts programs, classes and events for all ages
• Operate four community centers and a senior center, open a total of approximately 17,000 hours annually
• Operate two aquatic centers with programming for all ages and abilities
• Host special events throughout the year to bring the community together
• Maintain three library locations, open a total of 7,600 hours annually
• Circulate over 800,000 library materials annually
• Manage a rental assistance program serving 600 lower income households
• Provide 35,000 meals via the senior nutrition program annually
• Address approximately 1,200 code enforcement cases annually, including those related to public safety
• Process an average of 4,500 building permits and conduct over 18,000 building inspections each year
12
In 5 years …
The City of Carlsbad remains one of the safest cities in the region due to new investments in fire and emergency
medical services and a well-equipped and highly trained Police Department that enjoys excellent relationships with
the community. Critical infrastructure like roads and pipes are well-maintained, while parks, community centers,
libraries and other facilities reflect the community’s high standards.
Key performance indicators _____________________________________________________________
Resident responses to survey questions related to safety, quality of life, city services and amenities
Carlsbad crime statistics
Emergency response times
Condition of city assets like roads, parks and buildings
Indicators to be identified in an updated Homeless Response Plan that show progress addressing
homelessness, such as:
o Number of persons placed in temporary or permanent housing
o Number of persons who received services
Strategic objectives _______________________________________________________________________
1 Enhance the quality of life for everyone in Carlsbad by adopting and implementing an updated
Homeless Response Plan that addresses the complex needs of individuals experiencing, or at
risk of experiencing homelessness in a compassionate and effective manner and reduces the
impacts of homelessness on the community.
2 Foster strong relationships between community members and members of the Police
Department, including the formation of a community-police engagement commission.
3 Bring Fire Department up to Standards of Cover to ensure the city is prepared to meet the
community’s changing fire and emergency medical needs.
4 Manage, maintain and enhance the city’s roadway to provide a safe, efficient and cost-effective
multi-modal transportation system.
13
5 Implement the policies and programs in the following city plans based on annual budget
appropriations by the City Council:
Age-Friendly Action Plan
Asset Management Master Plan
Carlsbad General Plan
Community Development Block
Drainage Master Plan
Grant Consolidated Plan
Fire Department Standards of
Coverage
Homelessness Goal Work Plan
Homeless Response Plan
Parks & Recreation Department Master Plan
Public Housing Authority Plan
Recycled Water Master Plan
San Diego County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard
Mitigation Plan
SCADA Master Plan
Urban Water Management Plan
Wastewater Master Plan
Water Master Plan
Priority projects __________________________________________________________________________
The city expects to complete the following work on Capital Improvement projects to support this goal through
2027:
• Complete Palomar Airport Road and College Boulevard Improvements
• Complete traffic calming project on Tamarack Avenue from Skyline Avenue to Adams Street
• Complete traffic calming projects at various locations in the city including Victoria Avenue, Monroe Street,
Highland Drive, Nueva Castilla, Celinda Drive, Circulo Sequoia, Park Drive, Hummingbird Road and Black
Rail Road per the Carlsbad Residential Traffic Management Program
• Complete El Camino Real widening from
o Poinsettia Lane to Camino Vida Roble
o Arenal Road to La Costa Avenue
o Sunny Creek Road to Jackspar Drive
• Complete reconfiguration of right turn lane from northbound El Camino Real to eastbound Alga Road.
• Initiate construction to repair and upgrade beach access stairs and upper sidewalk between Pine and
Tamarack avenues
• Initiate projects as part of the Utility Undergrounding Program, in coordination with San Diego Gas &
Electric (SDG&E) and other utility providers
• Complete Avenida Encinas Coastal Rail Trail and pedestrian improvements
• Complete design of Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue pedestrian improvements
• Initiate project to improve Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) beach access from Pine to Tamarack
avenues
• Complete Avenida Encinas and Palomar Airport Road pedestrian improvements
• Initiate design of Carlsbad Boulevard pedestrian lighting improvements between Tamarack Avenue and
State Street, in coordination with SDG&E
• Complete design of La Costa Avenue traffic improvements
• Complete Melrose Drive right turn lane to westbound Palomar Airport Road
• Complete traffic signal modifications at Maverick Way and Camino De Los Coches
14
• Evaluate new intersection control at Camino De Los Coches and La Costa Avenue
• Complete improvements to Christiansen Way
• Complete design of Valley Street traffic calming between Magnolia and Chestnut avenues
• Complete design of Chestnut Avenue complete street improvements between Valley Street and Pio Pico
Drive
• Complete design of Chestnut Avenue complete street improvements between I-5 and the railroad tracks
• Complete design of street improvements for State Street and Grand Avenue
• Complete construction of Fire Station 2
• Complete construction of temporary Fire Station 7
• Identify site and complete preliminary design for permanent Fire Station 7
• Complete the design of new walking, biking and traffic improvements on Valley Street between Magnolia
and Chestnut avenues
• Begin construction of walking, biking and traffic improvements on Kelly and Park drives by Kelly
Elementary School and initiate Safe Routes to School program
• Complete Local Roadway Safety Plan and start implementation
• Complete construction of retaining wall, drainage and street improvements on Park Drive from Bayshore
Drive to just west of Marina Drive
• Work to expand homeless shelter capacity at La Posada de Guadalupe
Core services _____________________________________________________________________________
The city will maintain the following high levels of service annually in support of this goal:
• Respond to approximately 100,000 police calls for service annually with a response time for priority one
calls that is lower than the national average of six minutes
• Maintain a 24/7 dispatch center that answers approximately 36,000 9-1-1 calls annually
• Complete investigations for violent crimes, property crimes, fraud and financial crimes, auto theft,
juvenile crime, elder abuse and child abuse
• Provide canine units, bicycle patrol, crisis negotiations, bilingual services, and mental health assistance
teams
• Participate in regional task forces that focus on narcotics and gangs
• Provide school resource officers to middle and high schools
• Provide rangers to protect safety in parks, on beaches and city trails
• Maintain a SWAT capability that assists with high-risk situations
• Support public safety at approximately 30 special events annually
• Inform the community about crime prevention, fire prevention and traffic safety including educating the
public on e-bike safety
• Respond to about 14,000 Fire Department incidents and transport about 6,500 patients to local hospitals
for care
15
• Perform over 350 beach rescues annually while also providing about 25,000 actions aimed at preventing
beach emergencies to the more than 750,000 visitors to Carlsbad beaches
• Conduct over 3,500 fire inspections to limit the community’s risk through preventive actions
• Complete over 750 plan reviews for fire prevention
• Supply and maintain 4,441 fire hydrants citywide
• Provide homeless response services including social worker and housing placement services, hotel
vouchers, and encampment cleanups
• Maintain over 450 city-owned fleet vehicles so city services run seamlessly
• Repair over 30,000 square feet of sidewalk and asphalt annually
• Maintain 350 miles of streets
• Maintain 342 acres of community parks and special use areas
• Provide 4.8 billion gallons of drinking water to more than 30,000 homes and businesses each year with
455 miles of pipeline, 17 pressure zones, 71 pressure regulating stations, three pumping stations, 14,369
valves and over 30,000 potable meters
• Manage the recycled water system’s three storage tanks, four pump stations, three pressure reducing
stations, five pressure zones, 95 miles of pipelines, 815 valves, 961 meters and water recycling plant
• Manage a sewage collection system that includes 11 wastewater lift stations and wet wells, 265 miles of
mainlines and 6,056 access holes
16
In 5 years …
Thanks to the city’s strategic approach to environmental sustainability, Carlsbad is seen as a model for how to
leverage partnerships and innovation to achieve climate and environmental goals. City residents and businesses
feel supported in their own environmental sustainability efforts, whether it’s complying with new mandates or taking advantage of opportunities to go above and beyond. As a result, the city has met or exceeded goals for
eliminating greenhouse gas emissions, reducing what goes to landfills, keeping creeks, lagoons and the ocean
clean, and protecting native habitat and natural open space.
Key performance indicators _____________________________________________________________
Greenhouse gas emissions
Lagoon and ocean water quality
Reduction in materials going to the landfill
Community compliance with environmental regulations
Acres of habitat managed, restored and preserved
Percentage of the city fleet powered by hybrid or electric vehicle technology
Percentage of energy for city operations using clean sources
Strategic objectives _______________________________________________________________________
1 Research and evaluate a Climate Adaptation/Sustainability Plan to address the impacts of climate
change, including but not limited to extreme heat, drought, erosion, flooding and wildfire.
2 Transform roadways and implement programs that provide options to move around Carlsbad,
such as walking and biking, that reduce the city’s greenhouse gas emissions.
3 Increase citywide electric vehicle charging infrastructure and transition all passenger fleet vehicle purchases after FY 2022-23 to be electric vehicles, with the exception of public safety vehicle
purchases, which will be electric where feasible.
4 Seek grant funding to develop a Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan (following Coastal Commission
approval of the 2021 comprehensive update to the city’s Local Coastal Program).
5 Develop partnerships with nonprofit, academic and other non-governmental organizations to
leverage environmental sustainability efforts and programs.
6 Implement the policies and programs in the following city plans based on annual budget
appropriations by the City Council:
Carlsbad General Plan
Climate Action Plan
Community Forest Management Plan
Habitat Management Plan
Integrated Pest Management Plan
Jurisdictional Urban Runoff
Management Plan
Local Coastal Program
Sustainable Materials Management and
Implementation Plan
Sustainable Mobility Plan
Water Quality Improvement Plan
Preserve Management Plan
17
Priority projects __________________________________________________________________________
The city expects to complete the following work on Capital Improvement projects to support this goal through
2027:
• Meet implementation goals for the Sustainable Mobility Plan
• Complete Maerkle Reservoir Solar Project
• Complete Trash Amendment Compliance Program improvements
• Complete preliminary design and permitting for the South Carlsbad Boulevard Realignment between
Manzano Drive to Island Way
Core services _____________________________________________________________________________
The city will maintain the following high levels of service annually in support of this goal:
• Oversee the management of a 6,200 acre preserve system that protects native species and habitats
• Protect, manage and maintain urban forests and undeveloped open space
• Protect creeks, lagoons, and ocean by implementing the storm water permit, preventing sanitary sewer
overflows, and preserving and restoring natural open space
• Ensure areas of open space and the natural environment support sustainable access to recreation and
active, healthy lifestyles
• Implement waste reduction and waste diversion programs
• Remove approximately 1,000 tons of debris that otherwise would pollute the city’s storm drain system
• Ensure permit compliance through inspections of construction projects and the storm drain system
• Meet all stormwater regulatory requirements with zero violations
• Oversee contracted trash and recycling services for over 30,000 households and over 1,700 businesses in
Carlsbad and ensure compliance with organics waste requirements
• Secure final approvals from the California Coastal Commission and implement updated Local Coastal
Program
18
In 5 years …
The City of Carlsbad has a strong and diverse economy that combines a thriving small business community with
leading industries of the future. Smart, talented professionals want to work here, and entrepreneurial leaders
want to invest in their own startup ventures. Those looking to grow their skills will find opportunities for workforce
development in Carlsbad. Carlsbad has excellent relationships with key industries, business organizations, other
cities in the region, and academic institutions. By achieving this goal, the city as a whole is financially stable and
more residents have the jobs they want right in their own backyards.
Key performance indicators _____________________________________________________________
Ratings from local businesses through a scientific survey
Carlsbad unemployment rate
Size of Carlsbad’s GDP
Sales and hotel tax revenue
Indicators to be identified in a new Economic Development Strategic Plan
Strategic objectives _______________________________________________________________________
1 Create a strategic approach for a vibrant economy that includes talent & workforce strategies,
small business assistance, inclusive growth & diverse business support, key industry cluster
development, and fostering an ecosystem for startups & entrepreneurs to thrive.
2 Provide resources to grow and support key industries in Carlsbad’s economy.
3 Support the long-term viability of Small Businesses, Startups & Entrepreneurs in partnership with
local and regional collaborators.
4 Implement the policies and programs in the Carlsbad General Plan and Economic Development
Strategic Plan based on annual budget appropriations by the City Council.
Core services _____________________________________________________________________________
The city will maintain the following high levels of service annually in support of this goal:
• Support more than 25 business expansion, attraction, and retention projects in Carlsbad’s key industries.
• Manage lamp post banner program to beautify seven retail, commercial, and community areas in the city
to help create a sense of place and support small businesses.
• Connect talent to local business through the Life in Action campaign featuring more than 240 local
companies, and generating around 45,000 views.
• Develop a talent recruitment program that directly connects at least 175 job seekers with local Carlsbad
companies.
• Maintain partnerships with local and regional business support organizations, bringing collaborative
operations to Carlsbad.
19
In 5 years …
Following the creation of a 5-Year-Strategic Plan, the City Council, the community and city employees have
remained aligned around common goals. This sustained focus has not only generated measurable results, it has
translated into operational efficiencies and cost savings. The very best in their fields want to work for the City of
Carlsbad because of the culture that has been created around innovation, inclusivity and engagement. The city’s
financial health has been maintained while meeting or even exceeding the community’s high expectations for
service delivery. Investments in technology have led to enhanced efficiency, transparency, accountability and
value.
Key performance indicators _____________________________________________________________
General fund balance and reserves
City credit rating
Pension funding
Customer satisfaction
Internal operation standards and measurements
Information Technology incidents and outages
Strategic objectives _______________________________________________________________________
1 Develop and implement a performance tracking, management and reporting program for the 5-
Year Strategic Plan.
2 Foster a culture of continuous improvement that equips the organization to deliver excellent
service to the community.
3 Maintain the city’s fiscal health and sustainability.
4 Model trust, ethics and civility.
5 Attract and retain a talented, diverse and engaged workforce.
6 Achieve CalPERS funded status of 80% or greater (Council Policy No. 86) in
each of the next five years.
7 Implement the policies and programs in the following city plans based on annual budget
appropriations by the City Council:
Annual City Budget
Capital Improvement Program
City Council Code of Ethics
Connected Carlsbad
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Work Plan
Real Estate Strategic Plan
Strategic Digital Transformation Investment Plan
20
Priority projects __________________________________________________________________________
By 2027, the city will accomplish the following in support of this goal as resources allow:
• Complete Fleet Maintenance Facility refurbishment
• Complete design and construction of the Orion Center (centralized public works yard)
• Complete conceptual design for new City Hall and Civic Center
• Complete the Police & Fire Headquarters Renovation including the Emergency Operations Center
Reconfiguration
• Initiate design for construction of a new public works storage facility
• Complete feasibility study to identify the need and location for Fire Administration offices
• Research, evaluate and implement a Section 115 Pension Trust
• Core System Consolidation
• Expansion of the Digital Information Network
• Implementation of an Enterprise Asset Management System
• Implementation of cutting edge Computer Aided Dispatch system with a real time crime center
• Implement new tools for citywide project management
• Build a data driven decision making platform and training program
Core services _____________________________________________________________________________
The city will maintain the following high levels of service annually in support of this goal:
• Prepare a realistic and fiscally sound annual city budget each year that follows all best practices
• Monitor the city’s fiscal health and provide regular reports to the City Council and the public
• Process over 40,000 outgoing payments to vendors and service providers annually
• Issue over 10,000 business licenses annually
• Issue over 41,000 payments to employees annually
• Respond to approximately 600 public records act requests
• Conduct biennial review and re-affirm policy commitment to Code of Ethics
• Operate a fraud and abuse reporting system for employees
• Handle scheduling, public noticing and other support for over 170 public meetings
• Maintain the city’s website, which includes about 1,000 pages of information about city programs and
services
• Create ongoing opportunities for community engagement
• Ensure Carlsbad’s interests are represented with our state and federal lawmakers and oversee regional
collaboration efforts, such as participation in the Clean Energy Alliance, SANDAG, and NCTD
• Process approximately 6,000 job applications and support leadership in onboarding new staff
• Oversee learning and development opportunities for staff as well as ensure completion of mandatory
training
21
• Deliver technology services to city users including thousands of endpoint devices
• Support digital network services to city staff and guests over a 200 Gb backbone
• Manage the city’s cybersecurity risk with cutting edge technology, processes and policies
• Provide effective project management of technology service implementations
• Maintain portfolio of over 200 business applications used to facilitate effective service delivery by city
staff
• Manage the city’s real estate and properties to maximize taxpayer value
22
APPENDICES
23
COMMUNITY INPUT REPORT
For more information on the Community Input Report, please visit the city website:
www.carlsbadca.gov/input
24
EXISTING POLICIES & PLANS
The City of Carlsbad has a number of policies and plans already in place. Some are required by regulations; others
address a previous City Council goal or best practice in the industry. Each plan contains existing actions and
timelines, which are not repeated in this strategic plan. Instead, they are referenced below and in each goal section so the reader can gain a fuller appreciation for the breadth of work taking place to support the five key
goals of this strategic plan.
RELATED GOALS
Last update Next update
Age-Friendly Action Plan 2021 2026
Annual Operating Budget 2022 Annual Arts & Culture Master Plan 2018 2028
Asset Management Master Plan 2019 N/A Capital Improvement Program 2022 Annual City Council Code of Ethics 2021 Annual City Council Homelessness Goal Work Plan 2022 Annual
Continuity of Operations Plan 2021 2026 Climate Action Plan 2020 2024
Community Development Block Grant Plan 2020 2025
Community Forest Management Plan 2019 N/A
Connected Carlsbad 2020 N/A Department of Homeland Security Community
Resilience Indicator Analysis (2020)
2020 N/A
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Workplan 2022 2024 Drainage Master Plan 2008 2024
Fire Safety Regulations 2019 2025
Carlsbad General Plan 2015 2023
Growth Management Plan 1986 2023 Habitat Management Plan 2004 N/A
Homeless Response Plan 2017 2022
Housing Element 2021 2029
HUD Consolidated Five Year Plan 2020 2025
Integrated Pest Management Plan 2017 N/A
Jurisdictional Runoff Management Plan 2021 2025
Library Strategic Plan 2016 2023 Parks & Recreation Department Master Plan 2015 2023 Preserve Management Plan 2022 2027
Public Housing Authority Administrative Plan 2016 N/A Real Estate Strategic Plan 2017 2022 Recycled Water Master Plan 2019 2026
San Diego County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard
Mitigation Plan
2017 2022
25
RELATED GOALS
Last
update
Next
update
SCADA Master Plan 2019 N/A Local Coastal Program, Sea Level Rise Analysis 2021 TBD Standards of Cover (Fire Department) 2020 N/A Strategic Digital Transformation Investment Plan 2022 Annual Sustainable Materials Management Plan 2019 Annual
Sustainable Mobility Plan 2021 2023
Trails Master Plan 2019 N/A
Urban Water Management Plan 2020 2025
Village & Barrio Master Plan 2021 2023
Wastewater Master Plan 2019 2024
Water Master Plan 2019 2024
Carlsbad Watershed Management Area Water
Quality Improvement Plan
2021 2025
26
27
Department Overviews
Department overviews
City departments do work every day that supports the overall city mission and the City
Council’s 5-Year Strategic Plan. The following pages provide an overview of some of the
key functions of city departments, key activities, staffing and budgets, based on fiscal year
2022-23.
AT A GLANCE
Human Resources Finance Information Technology Internal Auditor
Full-time staff
87
$26.2 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
Administrative services includes departments that handle the day-to-
day business functions of the city.
As a steward of the city’s assets and liabilities, the Finance Department
sets and implements a strategic financial management plan, ensuring
the city makes sound financial decisions.
The Information Technology Department supports the technology
needs of all city departments to help them meet their goals, builds
technology infrastructure and ensures the public has access to digital
city systems, such as online permitting and public records. The Human
Resources Department helps ensure the city can provide the highest
level of service to the public by recruiting and training a nimble,
talented and professional workforce.
Manage annual budget
$342.2M
10,000
Computer help desk
requests fulfilled
6,000
Job applications processed
Budget Excellence Award
Excellence in Financial
Reporting Award
Government Finance
Officers Association
#1
40,000
Vendor payments
processed
151
Workforce trainings
Administrative Services
1635 Faraday Ave. | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2440
Administrative Services
Community Development
Building permits valued
at more than $132M
Professional staff
696 Carlsbad Planning
Commission
Advised by
52
$10.4 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
1,131
Engineering permits
1,200
Code enforcement
cases
Residential housing units
approved, including 116
low-income units
4,500
18,000 Building
inspections
Planning Permits Code enforcement Building inspections
Community Development oversees the delivery of land
development programs and services complying with adopted codes
and engineering standards, maintains and updates the city’s land
use regulations and ensures new growth and development
complies with established regulations, provides guidance and
reviews projects for conformance with state and local building
standards, and helps maintain safe and healthy living and working
conditions for the members of the community through code
enforcement
Community Development
1635 Faraday Ave. | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2710 | building@carlsbadca.gov
AT A GLANCE
Oversee private development
project construction
Employees
16
$3.3 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
TYPES OF
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
Transportation
The Construction Management & Inspection Department ensures
safe construction of Capital Improvement Program and private
development projects in compliance with legal, regulatory and
contractual requirements.
Parks
Construction Management & Inspection
1635 Faraday Ave. | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2780 | cmi@carlsbadca.gov
Facilities
Water
Sewer and
drainage
Manage city
construction projects
AT A GLANCE
Construction Management &
Inspection
Professional staff
17
$5.1 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
6,200
Acres of open
space preserved
30,000
1,700
households
businesses
Surpassed the Climate Action
Plan’s 2020 target to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions
4% below 2012 levels
Manage trash and
recycling services contract
Environmental Sustainability
1635 Faraday Ave. | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2729 | environmental@carlsbadca.gov
The Environmental Sustainability Department is responsible for environmental regulation compliance review and
monitoring, implementing the Climate Action Plan, assembling and conserving a citywide habitat preserve system,
executing the waste reduction and recycling program, protecting creeks, lagoons, and ocean, and ensuring the use
of open space and the natural environment support access to recreation and active, healthy lifestyles.
Trash & recycling Habitat preservation Climate Action Plan Clean oceans & lagoons
AT A GLANCE
Environmental Sustainability
Fire Operations Emergency Medical Fire Prevention Emergency Preparedness Lifeguard
Beach rescues
Fire inspections
Professional staff
3,500
350
123
$37.8 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
14,000
Respond to
The Fire Department enhances the quality of life for all who live,
work, and play in the city through excellence in emergency and
support services.
Fire Administration provides leadership, strategic planning, and
organizational support across all department programs.
Emergency Operations is an all-hazard first responder agency
safeguarding lives, property, and the environment.
Community Risk Reduction & Resiliency mitigates all types of
hazardous conditions and ensures incident response readiness.
6,500
Hospital transports
Fire Department
City Hall | 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive | Carlsbad, CA 92008
6
Fire stations
Incidents
AT A GLANCE
Fire Department
Facility maintenance Vehicle maintenance
Professional staff
35
$15.6 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
450
City-owned fleet
vehicles
The Fleet & Facilities Department maintains city-owned
vehicles and facilities. The city’s fleet consists of 456 vehicles
and equipment necessary to complete the city’s mission of
delivering quality and efficient services. The fleet
maintenance and replacement programs enable
departments to achieve their operational mission in a safe,
efficient manner.
Fleet & Facilities Department
405 Oak Ave. | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 760-434-2980
Facility maintenance
jobs completed
1,539
Named Top 50 Leading Fleets
nationwide by Government Fleet
magazine and the American Public
Works Association
Custodian services
at all city facilities
Transforming city
fleet through electric
and hybrid vehicles
AT A GLANCE
Fleet & Facilities
Housing assistance
Affordable units
in progress
Households provided
rental assistance Professional staff
550
200
CARLSBAD HOUSING
COMMISSION
Advised by
16
$11 million*
ANNUAL BUDGET
2,800
Affordable housing
units built
Formed
July 2021
▶Preserve and increase availability of affordable housing
units in the community
▶Provide rental assistance and homeownership opportunities
to lower income households
▶Devote local resources to prevent and reduce homelessness
▶Maintain quality of life of residents and reduce the impact of
homelessness on the community
▶Create critical services for people in need
▶Distribute grants that enhance the community
$52 M
SINCE 1993Invested in affordable
housing
15%
of new units set aside as
affordable *$7 million from federal funding
Homeless services Affordable housing Community assistance
AT A GLANCE
Housing & Homeless Services
Housing & Homeless Services
City Hall | 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2810 | housing@carlsbadca.gov
Economic growth Business attraction Partnerships Data-driven decision
Professional staff
25
Golf Lodging Business
Improvement District
9
$2.5 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
240
Business expansion,
attraction and
retention projects
175
45,000
Tourism Business
Improvement District
Companies
featured
views
Job seekers connected
with local companies
Innovation & Economic Development
1635 Faraday Ave. | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2222 | business@carlsbadca.gov
GIS
Mapping
AT A GLANCE
Innovation & Economic
Development
Visual and performing arts Circulation services Digital initiatives Adult & teen services
Full-time staff
51
$14.1 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
The Library & Cultural Arts Department provides community members
with access to high quality resources and services to inform and enrich
individual and community life. With three locations, the library provides
services such as administration, digital initiatives and special projects,
circulation services, adult and teen services, genealogy and Carlsbad
history services, children’s services, collections and technical services,
outreach, literacy and bilingual services and is the community destination
for information, enjoyment of reading, lifelong learning and cultural
enrichment.
The Cultural Arts Office plans, promotes and carries out visual and
performing arts programs, arts education activities, temporary and
permanent public art and other cultural offerings to promote a thriving,
diverse and creative city.
85 Bilingual program
offerings
Arts Commission
Library Board of Trustees
Historic Preservation
Commission
Advised by
Library materials
circulated
800,000
110,000
Sessions on public
computers
Cannon art
gallery exhibits
4 TGIF
Concerts in
the Park
9
Library & Cultural Arts
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2049 | librarian@carlsbadca.gov
AT A GLANCE
Library & Cultural Arts
Parks & trails Aquatics Sports Classes &camps Senior services
Recreation programs
Full-time staff
3,270
59
$21.2 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
339
Acres of community
parks and special-use
areas
The Parks &Recreation Department provides community members
with access to indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities and
conserves open space for resident and visitor use. Through the
services provided by the department, community members have
access to 41 community parks and special use areas and over 51
miles of open space trails, as well as a variety of programs and
services that support health and wellness.
67+
Miles of trails
Parks & Recreation Commission,
Beach Preservation Commission
Senior Commission
Advised by
Aquatic programs Community centers
open 17,000 hours a
year
35,000 senior
nutrition program
meals
Two pools
715
AT A GLANCE
Parks & Recreation
Parks & Recreation
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2826 | parksandrec@carlsbadca.gov
Patrol Investigations Homeless Outreach SWAT Crime Prevention
Minutes of response time
for highest priority calls
Dispatch center Full-time staff
24/7 5.2 187
$51.2 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
100,000
Calls for service
The Carlsbad Police Department is a full-service police
department that prides itself on its strong partnership with the
community and high service levels. These field services include
patrol, traffic, canines, lagoon patrol, and police rangers to
respond to emergencies and non-emergencies as well as
professionals that make up the following expert teams: Crime
Suppression Team, Homeless Outreach Team, SWAT Team, Crisis
Negotiation Team, Investigations Division, Family Services,
Communications and Records. Through the hard work and
dedication of the men and women of the Police Department,
and the support of council members and the community, the city
continues to be a safe community to live, work and play.
School crossing
guards
Police Department
2560 Orion Way | Carlsbad, CA 92010 | 442-339-2100 | police@carlsbadca.gov
36Park ranger
program
AT A GLANCE
Police Department
Office of the
City Council
Email updates to
community
Public records
requests fulfilled
Professional staff
600
550
34
$8.5 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
170
Public meetings
The City of Carlsbad follows a council-manager form of government,
in which elected City Council members provide direction on the
policies and regulations that govern the operations of the city. The
Policy & Leadership branch includes the following areas:
•Office of the City Council
•Office of the City Treasurer (elected)
•Office of the City Manager
•Office of the City Attorney
•Office of the City Clerk (elected)
•Communication & Engagement
The Office of the City Manager handles administration and oversight
of the city organization, including hiring the city workforce,
supervising city departments and ensuring the City Council’s policy
priorities are met.
Legislative affairs
Office of the
City Manager
Office of the
City Attorney
Office of the
City Clerk
Communication
& Engagement
Policy & Leadership
City Hall | 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2820 | manager@carlsbadca.gov
AT A GLANCE
Policy & Leadership
Transportation and Streets and Storm Drains Traffic Transportation Planning
Drainage Engineering and Mobility
Streetlight and electrical
maintenance repairs
Employees272
TRAFFIC & MOBILITY
COMMISSION
Advised by
43
$13.1 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
350
Miles of streets maintained
The Transportation Department is responsible for maintaining
and improving the city’s road infrastructure to keep people
moving; enhancing mobility and safety citywide through
ongoing transportation planning, streets and traffic engineering,
streets maintenance and signal operations; providing
maintenance and posting of street signs, street legends, striping,
graffiti and trash removal, pothole and sidewalk repairs. The
department also maintains storm drain infrastructure such as
gutters and pipes under city streets.
Traffic signals operated
and maintained
1801,000
Tons of debris removed
from streets
AT A GLANCE
Transportation
Water services Wastewater services Drainage system
Average water use
down since 2008
Gallons of safe water
provided Professional staff
4.8 billion
48%
64
$77.9 million
ANNUAL BUDGET
30,405
Homes and businesses
served
The Utilities Department provides safe and reliable water and
wastewater services while protecting the natural environment and
meeting regulatory requirements. The department provides
community members with access to safe drinking water,
wastewater collections, and recycled water for a greener Carlsbad.
The Utilities Department also promotes water conservation and
access to diversified and local water sources to supplement
imported water.
MAINTAINED
434 miles of water pipelines
265 miles of sewer pipelines
83 miles of recycled pipeline
Meets all state and
federal drinking water
quality standards
Utilities Department
5950 El Camino Real | Carlsbad, CA 92008 | 442-339-2722 | water@carlsbadca.gov
AT A GLANCE
Utilities