Development News for Woodland, California

Woodland Reports 6.1% City Staff Vacancy Rate, Below Threshold for Special Disclosure

The Woodland City Council received a report on the city's vacancy rate, which stands at 6.1% for 327 authorized positions. This rate is well below the 20% threshold that would trigger additional reporting requirements. The Administrative Services Director highlighted the efficiency of the Human Resources Department, which processed over 2,100 applications and completed more than 54 recruitments with only two staff members, achieving an average turnaround time of 86 days for new hires. The council was informed that no additional disclosures are required.

Woodland City Council Reviews Proposed $252.8 Million Budget Amidst Growing Structural Deficit

The Woodland City Council received a presentation on the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget, totaling $252.8 million across all funds. The general fund budget is set at $77 million. The presentation highlighted that expenditures are projected to outpace revenue growth, leading to a forecasted structural deficit. To address this, the council is considering approximately $1.4 to $1.5 million in general fund reductions, including freezing vacant positions and reducing contract amounts. The council also reviewed funding requests for various departments, with a significant recommendation to purchase solar arrays for an estimated $22.5 million in savings over 18 years. The council will reconvene on June 16th to adopt the final budget.

Woodland City Council Approves Tourism and Business Improvement District Assessment for FY 2026-27

The Woodland City Council reviewed the annual report and resolution of intention to levy assessments for the Woodland Tourism and Business Improvement District (WTBID) for fiscal year 2026-27. The WTBID aims to drive hotel occupancy and generate revenue through transient occupancy taxes and sales taxes. Spencer Bowen from the City Manager's Office presented the report, emphasizing that WTBID assessments are not taxes and do not incur costs to the city beyond administrative expenses. Al, representing the Woodland Hotel Years Group and Visit Woodland, spoke in favor, highlighting efforts to bring events to the city and increase hotel stays. He also clarified that the shift of some events to the fairgrounds is not an abandonment of downtown but a strategic move to generate room nights and support local businesses. The council approved the annual report and adopted the resolution of intention to levy.

Woodland Adopts 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan

The Woodland City Council adopted the city's 2025 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) and updated Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP). The UWMP, a five-year planning tool, projects water supply and demand through 2050 and ensures compliance with state mandates. The WSCP outlines six-tiered response levels for water shortages due to various factors like drought or disaster. Minor revisions were made to the WSCP, including phasing out non-functional turf use. The plans were deemed competent and compliant with state requirements.