Sierra Madre Begins Update to Open‑Space and Conservation Elements of General Plan

City planning staff introduced the open‑space and conservation element update for Sierra Madre’s general plan, outlining goals to protect natural resources, expand park access and strengthen climate‑resiliency measures.

Project staff said the update responds to new state laws (including AB 1425 and AB 1889) that require jurisdictions to incorporate stronger climate‑resilience policies and to map and protect wildlife habitat and connectivity. The update will assess existing park acreage, walkable access (5‑ and 10‑minute walking distances), tree canopy, wildlife connectivity corridors and potential new park opportunities.

Timeline and public engagement: staff outlined immediate steps — finalize an existing‑conditions report (Oct–Dec), begin tribal consultation and hold a public workshop in November. Staff will develop goals, policies and implementation actions Jan.–Feb., publish a public‑review draft and CEQA coordination in March and target adoption hearings in April 2026.

Staff said the effort will coordinate with city departments (parks & rec, public works, police) and include a wildlife‑connectivity biologist; the conservation work will also examine tree‑canopy choices and their effect on fire risk as part of climate resilience policies.

Why it matters: the open‑space and conservation elements help define where parks and protected lands exist, how residents access them and what rules guide development near habitat. Changes could affect park investments, neighborhood tree programs and vegetation management tied to wildfire risk.