Sen. Dodd Introduces Bill Encouraging City-Centered Growth

SACRAMENTO –Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, announced legislation today to extend a pilot program in Napa and San Bernardino counties that helps prevent urban sprawl and protects natural resources.

“This bill ensures Napa County focuses its new construction in city centers and transportation corridors, preserving agricultural land and open space,” Sen. Dodd said. “It’s a commonsense measure that will extend necessary services while reducing the need for new wells or septic systems.”

Senate Bill 13 extends the provisions of a law written by Sen. Dodd in 2015 that allow a Local Agency Formation Commission to authorize city or district services outside urban boundaries as long as open space or agriculture are not adversely affected. The provision is set to expire Jan. 1, 2021. Sen. Dodd’s new bill would extend the provision until 2026.

The extension is supported by both counties.

“I want to thank Sen. Bill Dodd for his commitment to preserving agriculture and open space in Napa County,” said Alfredo Pedroza, Napa County supervisor. “This bill will continue an important pilot program that prevents urban sprawl and continues our long-standing priority to prevent over-development outside city/town limits.” 

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Yolo, Sonoma, Solano, Sacramento and Contra Costa counties. More information on Senator Bill Dodd can be found at www.senate.ca.gov/dodd.