LAFCO
Fowler
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CITY OF FOWLER
MUNICIPAL SERVICE REVIEW AND
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE UPDATE
Report to the
Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
MSR-24-03 / RSOI-214
Prepared with the assistance of
The City of Fowler
Brian Spaunhurst, Executive Officer
Jessica Gibson, Analyst II
Monica Leon, Analyst I
Joel Matias, Analyst I
Lizbeth Dominguez, Analyst I
Clara Corl, Intern
Amanda Olivas, Commission Clerk
1401 Fulton Street, Suite 800
Fresno, CA 93721
Adopted: February 11, 2026
Table of Contents
Preface ........................................................................................................................ 4
Executive Summary .................................................................................................... 7
1. Governance and Accountability ...................................................................... 11
2. City Finances .................................................................................................. 20
3. Growth and Population Projections ............................................................... 27
4. Agriculture Preservation ................................................................................ 42
5. Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities ................................................ 49
6. Parks and Recreation Services ....................................................................... 51
7. Law Enforcement Services .............................................................................. 59
8. Fire Protection Services .................................................................................. 66
9. Solid Waste Services ....................................................................................... 72
10. Circulation and Street Maintenance Services .................................................. 75
11. Wastewater Services ...................................................................................... 91
12. Water Services ............................................................................................... 96
13. Public Transportation Services .................................................................... 106
14. Shared Facilities, Opportunities for Shared Facilities ................................... 111
15. Municipal Service Review Determinations ................................................... 113
16. Sphere of Influence Update Determinations ................................................. 115
17. Recommendations........................................................................................ 118
16. Acknowledgements ...................................................................................... 119
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 2 City of Fowler
Pro�ile: City of Fowler
Contact Information
City Manager: Michael Reid, City Manager
City Hall address: 128 S. 5th Street
Fowler, CA 93625
Phone: (559) 834-3113
Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday
Website: https://www.fowlercity.org/
Management Information
Incorporation date:1 1908
Enabling act: Government Code Title 4 (Government of Cities)
Organized as: General Law City
Governing body: Five City Council Members are elected by defined council district boundaries within
the City; among themselves, a Mayor and Mayor Pro-tem are selected to serve 2-year
terms; Council Members have staggered four-year terms.
Elections: Elections Code sec. 10100 et seq. (General Provisions)
Council members:
Name Current Term
Juan Mejia, Mayor December 2024 - December 2028
Amarjeet Gill, Mayor Pro Temp December 2022 - December 2026
Leonard J. Hammer December 2022 - December 2026
Karnig Kazarian December 2024 - December 2028
Daniel T. Parra December 2024 - December 2028
City Council meetings: On the first and third Tuesday of each month, 6:00 p.m. at City Council Chambers
Staffing: 39 Full-time employees
Service Information
Population served: 7,667
Incorporated limits: 1,728 acres
Sphere of influence: 4,474 acres
Proposal: Add 1,189.5 acres to the Fowler SOI (see Figure 2)
Fiscal Information
Budget: $41,738,509 (FY 2025-26)
Administrative Policies
Policies/Procedures: Yes General Plan: City of Fowler 2040 General Plan
Fowler Municipal Code: https://library.municode.com/ca/fowler/codes/code_of_ordinances
Previous SOI update: 2007 Vision Statement: Yes
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 3 City of Fowler
Preface
This Municipal Services Review (“MSR") is prepared by the Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
(“LAFCo" or “Commission”) to examine the municipal services provided by the City of Fowler in support
of an action by LAFCo on the Fowler sphere of influence (“SOI”).
This MSR examines the following items and municipal services provided by the City:
• Governance and Accountability
• Agency Finances
• Growth and Population Projections
• Agriculture Preservation
• Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
• Parks and Recreation Services
• Law Enforcement
• Fire Protection Services
• Solid Waste Services
• Street Maintenance
• Wastewater Service
• Water Service
• Public Transportation
• Shared Facilities
Credits
Fowler staff provided a substantial portion of the information included in this document, including annual
budgets, financial statements, various master plans, and assisted LAFCo staff to complete the MSR
worksheet. LAFCo extends its appreciation to those individuals at the City of Fowler, Fowler’s consulting
group Provost & Pritchard, for providing information, supporting documents, and their valuable assistance
in the development of this MSR update.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 4 City of Fowler
Figure 1. Fowler City Limits and Sphere of Influence
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County of Fresno
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Fresno Local Agencl,'. Formation Commission
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Sphere of influence N Incorporated: 1908
c::J Sphere updated: 7/11/2007
City limits W+E
City limits: 1,728 Acres
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Sphere area: 4,474 Acres ,l A
~ City location I
Map prepared: 12/1512023
Docume-nt pa.th: G:\LAFCO WORKING FILES\GIS Laye-rs and Maps\00-LAFCo Maps\ ler\Fowle-r07062021_ Portraitmxd
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 5 City of Fowler
Figure 2. City of Fowler SOI Expansion Area
City of Fowler SOI Update
LAFCO File- MSR 24-03/RSOl-214
Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
N Incorporated: 1908
Im Proposed sphere revision SOI Adopted: June 24, 1974
W+E SOI Updated: July 11, 2007
c::::J Current City Limit 0 0.170.35 0.7Miles Sphere Area: 4,474 Acres
§ Current SOI I I I I I I I I s City Area: 1,728 Acres
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 6 City of Fowler
Executive Summary
Purpose of this Municipal Service Review
This MSR has been prepared in response to the City of Fowler’s General Plan update. While the City has
partially updated its General Plan in the past, the City has not prepared a comprehensive update of its
General Plan since the original adoption. Since that time, new laws affecting General Plans have been
passed, new social and environmental issues have emerged, and new planning strategies and practices
have been developed. The Fowler General Plan looks ahead to the year 2040, establishing policies and
land uses based on current issues and emergent trends. This MSR presents data and analysis in support of
the Commission’s determinations pursuant to Government Code (“GC”) sections 56425 and 56430.This
MSR evaluates the City’s municipal services, existing development and service policies, and financial
practices in place to provide public services into the existing and proposed SOI over the next 20 to 25 years.
Fowler Sphere of Influence and Proposed Update
The City of Fowler’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) was originally adopted in 2007 and has remained unchanged
since that time. The existing SOI encompasses approximately 2,746 acres of unincorporated territory,
while the incorporated city limits contain 1,728 acres, for a combined planning area of 4,474 acres, as
illustrated in Figure 1. The City is proposing a 1,189.5-acre expansion to its current SOI to support
future annexations and to ensure adequate capacity for the land uses identified in the General
Plan. The proposed update reflects the City’s long-term growth needs and planned development
patterns.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 7 City of Fowler
City of Fowler Overview
The City of Fowler was founded as an outpost and switch station of the old Central Pacific Railroad,
forerunner of the Southern Pacific railroad. Officially incorporated in 1908, Fowler is now home to over
7,470 residents1 and boasts a thriving agricultural community.
The City of Fowler is located between the State’s coastal mountain ranges and the Sierra Nevada
Mountains. Fowler’s geography is primarily flat land with State Route 99 flowing through the western
portion of the City. Running parallel to State Route 99 is South Golden State Boulevard which serves as the
main expressway for the City.
Fowler does not share any common boundaries with other cities, aside from a shared Sphere of Influence
(SOI) boundary with the City of Selma to the southeast. Fowler is situated in the center of Fresno County,
just south of the City of Fresno and slightly northwest of both Selma and Parlier. While not a specific
representation, the Fowler SOI roughly follows State Route 99 on the west and east, Lincoln Avenue on the
north, with Temperance Avenue establishing part of the eastern boundary and East Springfield Avenue
marking the southern boundary.
The first Fowler SOI was established by LAFCo in June 24, 1974 and has been regularly updated and
expanded to accommodate the growth of the City. Fowler’s SOI and city limits encompass approximately
4,474 acres according to the Fresno LAFCo’s records.
Fowler has partially updated its General Plan multiple times throughout its history; however, it has not
been comprehensively updated since its original adoption date in 1976. This update establishes four urban
growth tiers beginning with the Primary Development Area (PDA) and including Urban Growth Tiers I, II,
and III. Development will first be concentrated in the PDA, which consists of approximately 3,957 acres.
Urban Growth Tier I is located in the western portion of the planning area and includes approximately 697
acres designated for residential and commercial land. Urban Growth Tier II, located to the northeast,
includes approximately 744 acres of residential and commercial, land uses. Finally, Urban Growth Tier III,
located to the south, includes approximately 287 acres of residential and commercial land.2
In 2024, the City filed an application with LAFCo requesting a 1,195-acre expansion of the Fowler SOI to
accommodate much needed land for future development. This 1,195-acre expansion area, including the
existing SOI and City limit, is known as the Fowler Planning Area.3 The City has submitted to LAFCo the
necessary documents including but not limited to, all City approved land use entitlements for the RSOI-214
Fowler Sphere of Influence Update and supporting certified environmental analysis for the proposed SOI
update.
The City may submit future annexation applications to LAFCo to incrementally expand the Fowler city limit
to its ultimate area to accommodate future growth of the City as identified by the Fowler General Plan.
Annexation and development of the Fowler SOI will depend on market demand and consistency with the
Fowler General Plan. As planned, Fowler’s SOI expansion will help accommodate the City’s need for office
space and commercial development, further implementing the goals and policies of the Fowler General
Plan.
1 United States Census Bureau. Quick Facts, Fowler, CA. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/fowlercitycalifornia/LND110220
2 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, page 20.
3 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, page 3.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 8 City of Fowler
The City’s land uses are divided into 12 land use designations. These land uses and their corresponding
acreages are listed in the table below.
Description Acreage
Residential Land Uses
City Only SOI Only
LDR – Low Density Residential 123.9 425.3
MLDR – Medium Low Density Residential 159.9 725.9
MDR – Medium Density Residential 181.4 569.6
MHDR – Medium High Density Residential - 190.0
HDR – High Density Residential 59.1 38.7
Commercial Land Uses
City Only SOI Only
NC – Neighborhood Commercial 9.5 18.6
CC – Community Commercial 99.1 -
GC – General Commercial 99.9 81.8
Industrial Land Uses
City Only SOI Only
LI – Light Industrial 102.3 243.5
HI – Heavy Industrial 334.7 772.1
Open Space Land Uses
City Only SOI Only
P/OS – Parks and Open Space 9.9 71.2
PF – Public Facility 93.9 39.6
Unknown Land Uses
- 20.3
Total 1,273.6 3,196.7
Note: Acreages are rounded to the nearest number.
City Governance Structure
The City is governed by a five-member City Council who are elected at large. The City Council appoints a
City Manager who is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the City. The City is administered by a City
Manager and has 39 full-time and 1 part-time employees who assist in City operations.
City-County Memorandum of Understanding
7As prescribed by GC sec. 56425(b), the City and County representatives convened to discuss the proposed
SOI update; additionally, both agencies reached a formal agreement by the way of a Memorandum of
Understanding (“MOU”) on the proposed Fowler SOI update.
Although LAFCo is not a party to the County-City MOU, the agreement provides a mutual agreement
between both parties that addresses exchange of tax revenue upon annexation, standards of annexation,
conditional commitments, and other matters of interest to both parties.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 9 City of Fowler
The City has informed LAFCo that there are some active Williamson Act Contracts within the areas
requested to be included in the updated Fowler SOI. At this time the City does not intend to affect the
Williamson Act Contracts.
City Services and Issues Evaluated in MSR
This MSR examines the following City services:
• Governance and Accountability • Fire Protection Services (FCFPD)
• City Finances • Law Enforcement Services
• Growth and Population Projections • Parks and Recreation Services
• Disadvantages Unincorporated Communities • Storm Drainage Services
• Circulation and Street Maintenance Services • Water Services
• Agricultural Preservation • Wastewater Services (SKF)
In addition to the services that the City provides, the following local agencies provide services to Fowler
residents:
• Fresno County Fire Protection District
• Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District
• Fresno County Library District
• Fowler Unified School District
• Selma-Kingsburg-Fowler County Sanitation District
• Waste Management (Trash Collection)
• Fowler Cemetery
Special districts that provide services to parcels located outside the City limits and within the Fowler SOI are:
• Fresno County Fire Protection District
• Consolidated Irrigation District
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 10 City of Fowler
1. Governance and Accountability
Well-managed organizations routinely evaluate their services, service plans, assess performance levels, and
regularly look for ways to improve their service delivery. This section of the MSR examines the City’s
governance structure, boards and commissions, departments, planning documents, and existing practices
that support its local governance and accountability.
Fowler’s Vision Statement
The Fowler vision statement provides guidance for the implementation of the 2040 Fowler General
Plan and its promise to its residents. Fowler’s mission statement reads,
“The City of Fowler is a safe, affordable place to live with a small-town feel. Fowler’s community events and
thriving schools create a place where people can raise their families and know their neighbors. Fowlers
foster a dynamic business-friendly environment where shared goals and cooperation support local
businesses and new economic investment. Thoughtful policies help conserve natural resources and provide
well-maintained infrastructure to support responsible growth and development while preserving the
unique, small-town identity that makes Fowler a great place to live, work, and play.”
Fowler City Council
The Fowler City Council carries out its responsibilities through the direction of the Fowler General Plan,
Fowler Municipal Code, the annual budget, and other state laws. During the development of each annual
budget, the City Manager keeps the City Council apprised on existing service levels, service demands, and
future service needs of the City.
The City of Fowler is a general law city organized under and subject to statutes of the State of California. It
is governed by a five-member elected council, with the Mayor serving as the presiding officer. Members of
the City Council are elected at large for four-year terms on a staggered basis. The Mayor and Mayor Pro-
Tem are selected by the City Council. City elections are held every two years to fill council members’ seats
with expiring four-year terms. Three of the five Council seats expire on the same cycle, while the remaining
two terms expire on the following election cycle. Additionally, a Mayor is elected every two years in the
general election for a two-year term. There is no limit on the number of times a candidate can run for re-
election to the City Council.
Council members receive a monthly base salary of $150 per month for their meeting attendance while the
Mayor receives a monthly base salary of $200 per month.4 The City Council is accountable to the residents
of the City.
The City Council meets regularly on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers, located at 128 S. 5th Street, Fowler, California, 93625. Regular council meetings are
open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the City’s decision-making
process. Each agenda includes an opportunity to address the City Council on items not listed on the agenda.
If a member of the public desires to make a formal presentation to the City Council, the person is
encouraged to contact the City Clerk in advance to coordinate possible meeting dates. Meetings are
4 Fowler Municipal Code, 2-1.201-202. Website:
https://library.municode.com/ca/fowler/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_CH1CICO_ART2SA
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 11 City of Fowler
noticed in accordance with Brown Act requirements, including posting meeting information in public places
72 hours prior to each regularly scheduled meeting. The City Council also acts as the Fowler Redevelopment
Agency and the Fowler Public Financing Authority.
The City’s website provides City Council meeting agendas, minutes, and supplemental information dating
from 2019 to today. This information can be found at https://www.fowlercity.org/meetings/recent.
Service requests, comments, and complaints may be submitted through phone calls, email, letters, and in-
person to the City Council, department heads, or the City Manager. The City’s website provides contact
information for each major City department.
Figure 1-1. City of Fowler Governing Body
The Fowler City Council may create a board, a commission, or a committee of the Council, or other body of
the City by ordinance, resolution, or other formal action of the Council. There are currently two (2)
commissions and one (1) committee created by the Council and serving many areas of the City’s life and
business. They provide a platform for public involvement in the governmental process. Legislative bodies
created by the Council report to the City Council and are subject to the Brown Act.
Commissions and Committees
The Fowler Municipal Code authorizes the Mayor to nominate eligible individuals to be considered for
official appointment by the City Council to serve on the Fowler Planning Commission and the Recreation
Commission. Legislative bodies created by the Council, pursuant to Title 2 of the Fowler Municipal Code,
report to the City Council and each board is subject to the Brown Act.
The City of Fowler’s website provides additional information on each board’s responsibilities, application
information for potential candidates, and respective meeting information packets including but not limited
to notices, agendas, and minutes for each of the boards. These boards are summarized as follows.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 12 City of Fowler
Fowler Planning Commission
The Fowler Planning Commission is a permanent board made up of five members who have been
recommended for appointment by the Mayor and approved by the City Council to review, advise, and act
on matters related to land use planning and development of the City. Planning Commissioners are appointed
to four-year terms. Three of the five terms expire on December 31 of even-numbered years when a
Presidential election is held (such as 2024, 2028, etc.). The remaining two terms expire on December 31 of
even-numbered years when a California Gubernatorial election is held (such as 2026, 2030, etc.). The
Planning Commission receives a per diem of $50.00.
This Commission conducts public meetings and makes decisions on various project applications including
use permits, variances, parcel maps and design review for residential, commercial, and industrial
development. The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the City Council on amendments to
the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance and subdivision maps. All new construction in the City is generally
subject to Planning Commission review with the exception of minor expansion of residential structures and
interior remodels.
The Planning Commission works closely with the Fowler Community and Economic Development Division.
Planning Commission Meetings are held on the first (1st) Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., in the Fowler
City Council Chambers at City Hall.
Fowler Recreation Commission
The Fowler Recreation Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Mayor serving a two-year
term commencing July 1st and expiring December 31st.5 Four recreation commissioners are appointed in
even-numbered years with three appointed in odd-numbered years. The Chairman elected by
commissioners every January. The Chairman appoints the Vice-Chairman and Secretary to serve one year.
Each commissioner must reside within the incorporated city limits, within the City’s approved Sphere of
Influence, or within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Fowler Unified School District.
The Recreation Commission voluntarily plans, organizes and facilitates community events, music, sports,
games, plays, celebrations, and similar activities, including:
• Annual Blossom Trail City Springfest Celebration in Panzak Park.
• Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
• Fowler’s Fabulous 4th of July Celebration
City Attorney
The City Attorney is an appointed office established under California law and the Fowler Municipal Code. The
City’s Legal Counsel is retained through contract directly with the City Council. The City Attorney is the City's
Chief Legal Advisor and represents the City in civil actions, prosecutes violations of the Municipal Code,
drafts ordinances, resolutions, contracts, leases, deeds, covenants, bond, financial documents, and other
City legal documents. All city departments contribute a fair share to fund the City’s attorney costs. The City
contracts its legal counsel services with Lozano Smith Attorneys at Law, a law firm based in Fresno.
5 Fowler Municipal Code, 2-2.203, Terms of Office. Website:
https://library.municode.com/ca/fowler/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2AD_CH2COBO_ART2RECO
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 13 City of Fowler
City Manager and Manager’s Office
The City operates under the Council-Manager form of government, which means that the City Council
appoints a City Manager who is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the City. The Council
works closely with the City Manager, various citizen advisory commissions and committees, and solicits
public comments from its residents to make decisions and recommendations to City Council on behalf of
its citizens. The current City Manager for the City of Fowler is Michael Reid.
The City Council provides policy directives to the City Manager who works with the City’s administration
team and the citizens to implement the policy framework of the Council. The City Manager also is
authorized to study, draft, and make recommendations for the City Council to consider regarding the City’s
budget, community goals and policies, major capital projects, long-term community growth strategies, land
use decisions, updates to City ordinances, capital improvement plans, financing programs, and strategic
plans.
The City delivers municipal services with a combination of staff, contracts with other agencies, and
contracts with consultants and/or private contractors. The City Manager is responsible for administering
all operations, finances, activities, and projects consistent with City Council policy directives and applicable
municipal, state, and federal laws. The City Manager appoints all department managers. Based on their
recommendations, the City Manager is authorized to confirm any hire and/or terminate any employee of
the City.
The City Manager’s cabinet is comprised of the Community & Economic Development Director, the Director
of Finance and Treasurer, the City Clerk/Personnel Manager, the Director of Public Works & Utilities, the
Fire Department (contracted staff), the Police Chief, and the Recreation/Senior Center Supervisor.
City Staffing
The City of Fowler relies on paid professional and technical staff to conduct the daily business and
operations of the City. According to the FY 2025-26 budget, the City employs a total of thirty-nine (39)
authorized full-time equivalent (“FTE”) personnel assigned to the various following City departments.
The City Clerk/Personnel Manager Division
There are three full-time staff members in the City Clerk/Personnel Manager Division: the City Clerk and two
Administrative Assistants. The City Clerk performs various professional and managerial duties that support
the City Manager, City Council, City Attorney, and works with the public to address any citizen’s concerns.
The City Clerk facilitates the execution of official and legislative processes, City Council meetings, agendas,
minutes, ordinances, resolutions, and contracts, and documents the proceedings of the City’s legislative
and advising committees.
The City Clerk also manages the proper maintenance and disposition of city records and information
consistent with statute. Among many responsibilities, the City Clerk conducts and oversees the City’s
election procedures in cooperation with the Fresno County Registrar of Voters, administering the Political
Reform Act of 1974, attesting to the passing of resolutions and ordinances, and participating in all City
Council meetings.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 14 City of Fowler
The Administration Services Department
There are seven full-time equivalent staff members and one part-time employee in the City’s
Administration Services Department. The Administration Director also serves as the Assistant City Manager.
The Administration Services Department oversees various city business activities, including City Finances,
Utility Billing, Human Resources, Contracts, and Investments. Administration Services Department also
provides annual reports, analysis, and other information to the City Council.
Community & Economic Development Department
The Community & Development Department has four full-time employees and consists of the Planning
Division, Code Enforcement, Economic Development, and the Building Division.6 The Community
Development Department employs one full-time Director, one full-time Building Inspector/Official,
contract City Planning staff, one full-time building Permit Technician, one full-time Code
Enforcement/Project Manager, and one part-time Code Enforcement Officer.
The Planning Division is responsible for the City’s current and long-range planning efforts. The Division’s
responsibilities include land use entitlements, review of residential subdivisions, site plans, multi-
residential developments, environmental review, conditional use permits, conducting community
meetings, and updating the zoning ordinance.
The Economic Development Division is responsible for attracting local investments, retaining small
start- up businesses or large scale industrial or commercial investors and working with potential City clients.
The Division also prepares and maintains statistical and demographic studies for the City.
The Building Division is responsible for the review, inspection, and issuance of all construction permits to
the public. Certified inspectors and plan examiners evaluate proposed projects to ensure full compliance
with the California Building Code. The Division administers all phases of the permitting and inspection
process and upholds public health, safety, and welfare by regulating design, construction practices, and
material quality prior to the issuance of occupancy permits.
In addition, the Building Division provides standardized plans and guidelines for minor structures, including
patios and sheds, to assist property owners and builders. The Division also conducts building code
enforcement activities and is authorized to issue citations for violations of municipal or building codes.
Finance Department
The City of Fowler Finance Department is responsible for managing the City’s finances. This includes
preparing annual budgets and maintaining the individual funds that hold funding revenues for the City’s
services and activities. Fowler’s major financial accounts are the General Fund, the Special Revenue Funds,
the Enterprise Funds, and the Debt Service Fund.
There are four full-time equivalent staff members in the City’s Finance Department. Fowler has one Finance
Director/City Treasurer who manages the City’s fiscal affairs and ensures compliance with legal and
professional standards. The Finance Director’s main responsibilities include annual budget preparation,
business licensing, costs and revenue accounting, disbursement and investment of City funds, preparation
6 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 5. Website: https://www.fowlercity.org/media/4371
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 15 City of Fowler
of financial reports, and grant management.
The City’s Accountant is responsible for managing and monitoring all municipal financial activities, including
budgeting, payroll administration, accounts payable and receivable, and the preparation of financial
reports. This position ensures adherence to state and local regulatory requirements, maintains accurate
financial records, and promotes the transparent and responsible stewardship of public funds.
The City employs one Accounting Technician who carries out routine financial functions such as processing
invoices, tracking expenditures, reconciling accounts, and assisting with payroll. This position provides
essential support to the Accountant and the Finance Director/City Treasurer by maintaining accurate
transaction records and ensuring all financial activities comply with established City policies and procedures
The City also has one Finance Department Administrative Assistant who supports the above-mentioned
employees by providing clerical and organizational support, such as managing schedules, preparing
documents, and responding to internal and public inquiries. They also help process routine paperwork,
maintain filing systems, and assist staff with distributing reports and organizing financial records.
Recreation Department
The City of Fowler Recreation Department hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year to engage
the community and create memorable experiences for residents of all ages. These events curated by the
City of Fowler Recreation Department aim to foster community spirit, create lasting memories, and provide
opportunities for residents to come together in a fun and engaging atmosphere. By participating in these
events, community members can strengthen their connections with one another and build a sense of pride
and belonging in their city. Fowler’s Recreation Services Department employs one full-time staff member,
and two part-time employees to meet the programming needs of the community.
The Department’s services primarily consist of programming social recreational services and activities for
children, youth, and senior citizens. The Department partners with other organizations to provide
additional opportunities and events throughout the year, holiday parades, and community fairs. The
Department oversees the following divisions: Aquatics, Enrichments, Special Events, Senior Programs, and
Senior Nutrition. The Edwin Blayney Senior Center is located at 507 E Merced Street, Fowler, CA 93625 and
is the temporary location while the David T. Cardenas Senior Center and Police Headquarters Building are
under construction. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Police Department
The Fowler Police Department is responsible for enforcement of state and city laws, investigation of crimes,
apprehension of criminals, reducing traffic collisions, maintenance of ongoing crime prevention programs,
and building ties with the community and other local law enforcement agencies. The Fowler Police
Department is currently staffed by one Police Chief, two sergeants, two corporals, one cadet, eight police
officers, one community service officer, and one crime analyst.
Public Works Department
The Public Works Department provides water and storm water collection services within the City. The
Public Works Department ensures that all city-owned buildings and structures are safe, functional, clean,
and have well-maintained facilities. Their duties include ensuring City Hall, Council Chambers, Police
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 16 City of Fowler
Station, and Community Development trailers remain clean, functional, and secure for both staff and the
public. This responsibility applies to any associating support infrastructure, including restrooms, the yard
breakroom, and shop space. Additional duties include performing building system checks, lighting and
plumbing maintenance, and custodial services as needed to support the operational readiness of the Fire
Station. The Department also oversees cleaning, restroom servicing, and basic building maintenance to
ensure a clean and accessible environment for community use of the Senior Center.
Continued responsibilities are also maintaining City parks and open space areas, including grounds and turf
maintenance, irrigation system management, landscape and tree care, playground and recreation
equipment maintenance, restroom and facility cleaning, trash and waste management, vandalism
response, safety and accessibility compliance, landscape maintenance districts (Medians or LMDs).
The Public Works department also oversees the City of Fowler’s Graffiti Abatement Program, administered
through the Public Works and Utilities Department, plays a critical role in preserving the city’s appearance,
deterring vandalism, and maintaining community pride. Rapid response to graffiti incidents promotes a
clean and safe environment, discourages further tagging, and enhances the overall quality of life for
residents, businesses, and visitors.
Weekly inspections of high traffic areas, parks, alleyways, and key corridors such as Golden State Boulevard,
Merced Street, and Fowler Avenue are conducted to proactively identify and abate graffiti. The goal is to remove
graffiti within 24 to 72 hours of being reported, depending on severity and location, using appropriate methods
such as pressure washing, chemical removal, or repainting. Additional duties include street lighting system
operating, city vehicles maintenance, and street maintenance and repair.
The Public Works Department consists of twelve full-time employees and three part-time employees.7 A
Public Works Department Director oversees the management, reporting, and planning of the following
divisions: Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, Fleet Maintenance, Electrical/Street Lighting, Storm Water,
Streets and Parks.
Management Practices
All City of Fowler employees are considered at-will employees. Full-time City employees are evaluated at a
minimum of one time per year by their Department Manager. Each full-time employee participates in
ongoing training and education at a minimum of one training course per year to stay current with industry
trends. Human Resources tracks employee’s completed training and/or course work and provides
necessary documentation to update the employees’ portfolio. The City Manager is informed on the
fulfillment of employee training requirements.
The City makes available both mandatory and optional training and educational opportunities. Mandatory
training topics for certain employees include anti-harassment and anti-discrimination, ethics, and sexual
harassment. The Human Resources Division also offers optional training and workshops covering topics
such as customer service, leadership development, work/life balance, basic fundamentals, and legal topics.
City employees also have access to hundreds of no-cost self-paced online training courses in subject areas
such as Safety in the Workplace and Professional Development.
7 Ibid.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 17 City of Fowler
Planning Department and Practices/Commission
The Planning Department oversees and promotes economic development, business expansion, retention
and relocation, and housing assistance/rehabilitation programs. They assist with facilitating and preparing
for the future growth and development of the City, ensuring that the high quality of life is maintained and
enhanced and new businesses/jobs are developed and retained. The Department provides technical and
professional staff support in all areas of development processing, environmental protection, and city and
regional planning while coordinating the review of development applications and maintaining the City’s
General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. They also administer project review, processes General Plan
Amendments, site plans, zoning changes, permits, lot line adjustments, variances, conditional use permits,
subdivision maps and other items. Furthermore, they provide administrative planning services to the
Planning Commission, City Council, and other City departments.
The Fowler General Plan is the central planning document and provides the City’s vision through year 2040.
Portrayed in Figure 1-2, the General Plan consists of five elements that set forth the City’s policies for land
use, circulation, conservation/open space/parks and recreation, safety, and noise. The General Plan
evaluates three specific planning boundaries: City limits, the existing SOI, the Council-approved Expansion
Area (the area ultimately forecast by the General Plan for the Fowler sphere of influence but not yet
approved by LAFCo). The Fowler General Plan guides land use decisions that shape the development of the
City by establishing policies for the general distribution, location, and extent of present and future land
uses.
Figure 1-2: Required Elements by General Plan Chapter
. "--I "--t
- - I •
Housing Conservation • .
1: lntrod1:1ctlon
2: The Planning
Process
3: Community Vision •
4: I.and Use
S: Community
()
Design •
6: Housing ,I I
• • •
7: Community Health
()
and Equity •
8: O,pen Spacie () I •
9: Mobility
10: Eeonomrc 0
I
Development
11: Community • •
Resiliency and ()
Safety
U : Public Facilities
I
and ServTces
13: lm,plementatlon
() ()
Strategy
Appendices 0 ()
Legend:
• = Mdresses element requirements pursuant to the Government Code.
() = Addresses or supports e.lement requirements pursuant to the Govemme.nt Code which are not addressed in the primary chapter.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 18 City of Fowler
The City’s authority to regulate the use of land extends only to properties within its corporate boundary,
known as the city limit. Outside of the city limit, but within the Fowler SOI, the General Plan is not limited to
only providing guidance for future development and the scope of services; it also establishes the
evidentiary basis for the Fowler SOI which is LAFCo’s plan for the probable physical boundaries and service
area of the City.
Other significant City planning documents include:
• 2023-2031 Multi-Jurisdictional Housing Element (6th Cycle)
• Bike, Pedestrian, Trail Master Plan
• 2016 Fresno County – Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
In 2024, the City, along with thirteen other cities in the County of Fresno, jointly launched the Multi-
Jurisdictional Housing Element (“MJHE”) for the sixth round of housing element updates. Fresno COG
coordinated the efforts of all fourteen participating cities and the County of Fresno. The MJHE covers the
planning period of December 31, 2023, through December 31, 2031.
The City’s annual financial planning documents include thorough analysis with respect to the City’s policies,
goals, and achievements during the year. Each year, all Departments provide an overview of the
department goals for the upcoming fiscal year. The City’s Public Works, Community & Economic
Development, and Finance Departments also prepare annual updates to the City’s Capital Improvement
Plan.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 19 City of Fowler
2. City Finances
This section of the MSR provides an overview of Fowler’s financial condition and provides a context for
assessing the City’s financial ability to provide services. This section describes and evaluates the City’s
adopted budgets for FYs 2024-25 and 2025-26, annual audited financial statements for FYs 2022-23, the
ongoing audit for FYs 2023-24, and the City’s master fee schedule. Additional information was collected
through communication with City staff.
Budget Process
The Fowler Municipal Code requires that the City Manager prepare a balanced budget and salary plan to
submit to the City Council, outlining anticipated revenues and expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year.
The Fowler Municipal Code requires that the City Council adopt a balanced budget no later than June 30, to
ensure that continuity of government services remains intact.
The Fowler City Council considers the proposed budget during a noticed public hearing and may add,
subtract, or change appropriations within revenues and reserve estimates, as available. The City has
established fiscal policies that govern its financial administration. Fowler’s financial policies are designed to
protect the City’s assets, provide stability in its funding base, and ensure that adequate funding resources
are secured for the upcoming year.
Any budget changes that adjust increase or decrease approved expenditures between various accounts
require consideration by City Council action. All appropriations lapse at the end of each fiscal year, June 30th.
Budget appropriations may be revised during the year by requesting the City Council to consider a budget
amendment. All proposed budget amendments are reviewed by the Administrative Services Department
for their potential financial implications. The City’s adopted budget is posted on the City’s website and
distributed to interested parties.
Fowler Financial Overview
According to the City, it maintains at least forty-five (45) various individual funds that hold funding revenues
for City services and activities; however, these funds are consolidated for financial reporting purposes.
Fowler’s enterprise funds are generally self-sustaining, relying primarily on fees and charges for the services
they provide. Additionally, capital projects supporting these services are generally funded through
accumulated fees and financing mechanisms, with debt service covered by those fees, and may also be
supplemented by grant funding when available.
The following funds summarize the City’s major financial accounts:
• The General Fund is the general operating fund of the City. All general tax revenues and other
receipts that are not allocated by law or contractual agreement to another fund are accounted for
in the General Fund. The expenditures of this fund include the general operating expenses and
capital costs which are not paid through other funds.
• Special Revenue Funds are used to account for specific revenues that are legally restricted to
expenditures for particular purposes.
• Enterprise Funds are used to account for operations that are financed and operated in a manner
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 20 City of Fowler
similar to a private business enterprise, where the intent of the governing body is that the costs
of providing goods or services to the general public on a continuing basis be financed or recovered
primarily through user charges.
• Debt Service Funds are used to account for the accumulation of resources and payment of
principal and interest on general long-term debt.
The budget provides funding for thirteen (13) City departments: City Council, Administration, City Clerk,
Finance, City Attorney, General Government, Police, Fire, Community Development, Information
Technology, Public Works, Recreation, and Senior Center.8 Each department budget consists of two main
categories: wages and benefits, and maintenance and operation. Expenditures are balanced by anticipated
revenues. For FY 2025-26, Fowler’s citywide revenues are projected to be $21,009,294, while citywide
expenditures are projected to be $41,738,509.9
City Revenues
The following sections discuss specific areas of the financial status of the City in more detail. These areas
include overall city revenues and expenditures, the General Fund, several of the major enterprise funds,
the Capital Improvement Programs, city assets and liabilities, the pension systems and other liabilities, debt
service, and city bond ratings.
City of Fowler’s primary sources of General Fund revenue consist of property taxes, sales taxes, franchise
fees, motor vehicle in lieu of property taxes, and other miscellaneous revenues. For FY 2025-26,
approximately 53 percent of Fowler’s general fund revenues were from taxes. Additional general fund
revenue consists of: Vehicle License Fees (VLF) (18%), Transfer In (12%), Licenses and Fees (10%), Services
and Fees (3%), and Other Misc Revenues (3%).10
The City also receives restricted revenue such as state gasoline taxes for road infrastructure maintenance
purposes, and other grants and directed revenues. Enterprise activities such as water, wastewater, and
solid waste disposal services receive the significant majority of their revenues from charges for services.
8 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 11.
9 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 2.
10 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 10.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 21 City of Fowler
Figure 2-1. General Fund Revenues
GENERAL FUND REVENUES
12% ■ Property Tax - 18%
18%
2% ■ Fines - 1%
3% ■ VLF - 18%
1%
6% ■ Sales Tax - 27%
1% ■ Transient Occupancy Tax - 2%
■ Licenses & Fees - 10%
18%
10% ■ Grants - 1%
■ Franchise Tax - 6%
2%
■ Services & Fees - 3%
■ Other Misc. Revenues - 2%
27% ■ Transfer In - 12%
Sales & Use Taxes
Sales and use taxes comprise one of the largest portions of revenue for the City’s General Fund, totaling
approximately 27% of revenue for FY 2025-26. For FY 2024-25, the City projected $1,881,374 in sales tax
revenue; with an adopted budget of $1,762,183 for FY 2025-26.11
According to the City, sales tax is a relatively volatile revenue source, and the City does its best to budget
sales tax conservatively. The City cautions that sales tax revenue is impacted due to rising inflation and
increased interest rates which reduces purchasing power from businesses and families.
Property Taxes
Property taxes and Property Taxes in Lieu of Vehicle License Fees (“VLF”) comprise the largest source of
revenue for the City’s General Fund totaling approximately 36% of revenue for FY 2025-26. For FY 2025-26,
City staff estimated the City would receive $770,000 in secured property tax revenue.12
The Fresno County Auditor-Controller/Treasurer–Tax Collector assesses property owners within the County
and distributes the tax to the appropriate local agencies based on their shared percentage on its pre-
Proposition 13 level of taxation. Fowler’s property tax revenue fluctuates, and it is influenced by increased
assessed valuations associated with new construction, new annexations to the City, and topped by the
11 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 54.
12 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 13.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 22 City of Fowler
statutorily regulation of maximum increases in assessed valuation of 2% per year.
Additionally, the City collects property tax in lieu of vehicle license fees. Most vehicles are assessed a VLF,
in lieu of property tax, based on the purchase price/value when acquired and funds go to cities/counties.
VLF decreases for the first 11 renewal years (18 for park trailers) or until the vehicle is transferred in
ownership. In 2004, the State of California reduced the vehicle license tax rate to 0.65% of value, thus
reducing the taxes allocated to counties and cities.13
Franchise Fees
Franchise fees comprised approximately 6 percent of the City’s General Fund revenue for FY 2025-26. For
FY 2024-25, the City is expected to secure $433,826 in franchise tax revenues. These fees are collected from
cable, electricity, and gas utility providers, as well as SKF Sewer, and Waste Management. Below are the
Franchise Tax Revenue numbers for the period of 2021 through 2025 which summarize the revenue
collected from all five utility providers.14
Figure 2-2. Franchise Fees and Tax
Fiscal Year Fund Name Total
2021/22 Franchise Tax $471,602
2022/23 Franchise Tax $475,770
2023/24 Franchise Tax $ 428,200
2024/25 Franchise Tax $ 436,000
City Expenditures
Primary General Fund expenditures consist of employee expenses inclusive of salaries, benefits and
retirement contributions, operations and maintenance expenditures, pension obligation bonds and
interdepartmental charges.
The City’s FY 2025-26 budgeted expenditures for all funds totaled $7,547,951. The budget represents a
nominal decrease of less than 2 percent when compared to the previous fiscal year, FY 2024-25.15
The largest expenditure category is Police, representing 32 percent of citywide expenditures. Public works
comprise 21 percent of the City’s net budget, while other major expenditure items include Community
Development (13%), Administration (6%), and Fire Protection (5%). Figure 2-3 shows the Citywide total
budget expenditures by department.16
13 California Department of Motor Vehicles. 3.075 Vehicle License Fee (VLF) (CR&TC §10751-10753).
14 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 13.
15 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 11.
16 Ibid.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 23 City of Fowler
Figure 2-3. Citywide Total Budget Expenditures by Department
CITYWIDE TOTAL EXPENDITURES BY DEPARTMENT
■ Administration - 6%
2%3% 6% ■ City Clerk - 3%
3%
■ Finance - 6%
6%
■ City Attorney - 3%
21%
3%
■ General Government - 4%
4%
■ Police - 32%
■ City Council - 1%
2%
■ Fire - 5%
■ Community Development - 13%
13% ■ Information Technology - 2%
32%
■ Public Works - 21%
5%
1% ■ Senior Center - 2%
■ Recreation - 3%
Personnel Costs
This section provides an overview of Fowler’s personnel costs by department. The City employs 40
employees across seven departments: Administration, Clerk, Community Development, Finance, Police,
Public Works, and Senior / Recreation. The City of Fowler contracts with the Fresno County Fire Protection
District (FCFPD) for all fire protection services.
The Fowler Police Department is the largest department in the City, employing 16 people which represents
approximately 40 percent of all city employees. The Public Works Department is the second largest, while
Finance is the third largest department in the City of Fowler. The City allocated approximately $5,425,362
to personnel costs for FY 2025-26. According to the Fowler FY 2025-26 budget, each department consists
of the following staff levels:
• Police, 16
• Public Works/Water, 12
• Finance, 5
• Community Development, 4
• Senior / Recreation, 1
• Clerk, 1
• Administration, 1
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 24 City of Fowler
Operations & Maintenance
Operations & maintenance costs amount to $5,748,273, equivalent to 14 percent of the City’s FY 2025-26
total budget expenditures.17 Operation & maintenance costs have increased by approximately 9 percent
of the Total Citywide Expenditure when compared to the previous FY 2024-25.
Capital Outlay
Capital outlay costs amount to $29,627,507, equivalent to 29 percent of the City’s FY 2025-26 total budget
expenditures.18 Capital outlay costs have decreased by approximately 12 percent of the Total Citywide
Expenditure when compared to the previous FY 2024-25.
The City maintains a five-year Capital Improvement Plan (“CIP”) and updates this program annually. The
CIP focuses on sustainable economic development including roads, parks, critical infrastructure, and facility
upgrades. The CIP outlines plan for capital improvement in the following areas: water infrastructure, sewer
improvements, park projects, street construction and maintenance, city planning initiatives, and fleet
updates.
For FY 2025-26, the City’s capital outlay budget prioritized funding toward the following projects:
• Police Department & Senior Center
• Fire Station (Second Floor Buildout)
• Lift Station (Fowler & South)
• Street Projects: Manning Section 130 Signalization Project, South Avenue Reconstruction (Stanford
to Fowler), Adams Avenue (Sidewalk and Curb Ramps), 4th & 5th Street Paving, and others.
Debt and Debt Service
There are currently two active debt accounts with the City of Fowler, Debt Service 88-1 Fund 320 and
Fire Station Building Debt Service Fund 329.
The Debt Service 88-1 Fund 320 is used to account for accumulation of resources for, and the repayment of,
City Bonds, interest and related costs. According to the City, the debt service has a remaining balance of
$1,327,200 as of June 30, 2024, and has a maturity date of September 2043.
Fire Station Building Debt Service Fund 329 is used to account separately for debt service for the new fire
station. Fire Station Building debt service will be allocated directly from the Utility Users Tax Fund (“UUT”).
The debt service has a remaining balance of $1,192,950 as of June 30, 2024, and has a maturity date of
September 2058.
Pensions and Retirement
The City of Fowler participates in the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), a cost-
sharing multiple-employer defined benefit plan. The City maintains four rate plans – two for Miscellaneous
17 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 13.
18 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 42.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 25 City of Fowler
employees and two for Safety employees (police) – with benefit formula ranging 2.0% - 2.7% at age 55/62
for miscellaneous and 2.7%-3.0% at age 55/57 for safety members.
Employee contribution rates range from 7.96%-13.99%, while employer rates range from 8%-24.4%,
depending on rate plan. In addition to the normal-cost percentage of payroll, CalPERS bills a fixed annual
payment toward the plan’s unfunded liability, which was $537,873 for FY 2024-2025 and an approximately
16% increase for FY 2025-2026 $625,953. The total pension contribution for FY 2025-2026 is $950,246
which is approximately 17% of the total personnel expenditures.
Overall, the City continues to meet all required pension contributions and actively manages its long-term
CalPERS obligations to maintain retirement benefit sustainability for employees while balancing fiscal
responsibility to the community.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 26 City of Fowler
3. Growth and Population Projections
This section evaluates the growth and population analysis for the City of Fowler. It considers demographic
information prepared by California Department of Finance, U.S. Census, and land use policy documents
adopted by City of Fowler to identify growth estimates within the City’s incorporated limits and the sphere
of influence. 19
State law defines a sphere of influence (“SOI”) as a plan for the probable physical boundaries and service
area of a local agency, as determined by the Commission.20 The Commission’s determination of the SOI is
based on its analysis of growth and population projections of the local agencies and its plans to extend
corresponding municipal services.
Land Use Planning
The Fowler General Plan was adopted by the City Council on April 18, 2023 and accounts for the City’s
growth through 2040. The General Plan establishes its land use foundation through a vision that was
created through cooperative efforts involving the City Council, Planning Commission, City staff, and the
community. It pledges to its residents, “The City of Fowler is a safe, affordable place to live with a small-
town feel.”
The General Plan creates policies and provides for the general distribution, location, and extent of present
and future land uses that guide land use decisions that shape development of the City. The General Plan
evaluated four planning boundaries that outline the City’s planning strategy:
• City limits (1,694 acres)21
• LAFCo’s Fowler SOI (4,495 acres)22
• “The Planning Area” which encompasses 5,690 acres and extends beyond the
Fowler SOI. The City is committed to guiding land use and circulation within the
planning area because of the potential impacts to the quality of life in Fowler.23
Guided by a series of Land Use Element (“LUE”) goals and policies, the Fowler General Plan aims to balance
future development with demand, prioritizing growth that aligns with community objectives, and ensure
the efficient expansion of municipal services while maintaining services for existing development.
The General Plan LUE goals, adopted by the Fowler City Council, are listed as follows:
• Goal LU-1: Growth occurs logically and efficiently.
• Goal LU-2: A wide range of housing types are available to accommodate all housing
needs in the community.
• Goal LU-3: Thriving commercial centers are located throughout the City.
19 California Department of Finance, Population Estimates, published May 1, 2025.
20 California Government Code section 56076.
21During the preparation of this MSR, a discrepancy was identified between LAFCo’s City Limits for the City of Fowler and the City of Fowler’s
General Plan estimate for the City of Fowler’s City Limits. This MSR recognizes that LAFCo’s approved City Limits for Fowler is 1,728 acres.
22 During the preparation of this MSR, a discrepancy was identified between LAFCo’s SOI for the City of Fowler and the Fowler’s General Plan
estimate of LAFCo’s SOI. This MSR recognizes that LAFCo’s approved SOI for Fowler encompasses 4,474 acres, as of September 5, 2012
23 During the preparation of this MSR, a discrepancy was identified between LAFCo’s Planning Area for the City of Fowler and the General Plans
Planning Area for the City of Fowler. This MSR recognizes that the Planning Area for the City of Fowler is 5,669 acres.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 27 City of Fowler
• Goal LU-4: There are continued opportunities for the expansion of industrial land uses.
As per the Fowler General Plan, the City aligns community objectives with efforts of balances existing
development with future growth. The Fowler General Plan utilizes a land use table to portray Fowler’s
anticipated incentives. Figure 3-1 represents the land uses and their density/intensity.
Figure 3-1: Land Use Designations and Consistency Matrix
Designation Description Density/
Intensity
Residential Land Use
LDR – Low Low density residential is characterized by larger lots for single family residential
Density development. Lot sizes would typically range from 8,500 to 12,000 square feet
Residential and larger. It is not envisioned that lots greater than one acre in size would be 0.0-3.6
appropriate within the City limits. du/ac*
This designation is typically programmed near the edges of the community and
agricultural land to allow for compatible transition of uses.
MLDR – Medium low density residential is characterized primarily by single family homes.
Medium Low Lot sizes would typically range from 7,000 to 10,000 square feet.
Density 3.7-5.5
Residential This designation is typically programmed near the edges of the community and du/ac
agricultural land to allow for compatible transition of uses
MDR – Medium density residential is characterized by detached single family residential
Medium development, attached dwelling units, apartments, or townhomes. Lot sizes
Density would typically range from 3,500 to 7,000 square feet.
Residential 5.6-13.5
This designation is typically programmed between the higher and lower du/ac
residential densities and serves as a transitional land use. It is also appropriate
near neighborhood commercial and park land use designations
MHDR – Medium high density residential is characterized by apartments, townhomes, or
Medium High detached or attached single family residential development. Lot sizes for smaller
Density lot single family development may range from 3,500 to 5,000 square feet. 8.0-13.5
Residential du/ac
This designation is typically programmed near commercial centers, the
downtown, and parks.
HDR – High High density residential is characterized by apartments or townhomes and is
Density intended to be located near major community facilities, business centers, and
Residential downtown. 13.6-21.8
du/ac
This designation is typically programmed near commercial centers, the
downtown, and parks.
Commercial Land Use
NC – Neighborhood commercial provides for commercial uses serving convenience
Neighborhood and commercial needs, but also offers general merchandise, variety, and specialty
Commercial items and are intended to serve the smaller market area surrounding the site.
Limited residential uses are also allowed in Neighborhood Commercial locations Maximum
where appropriate. FAR 0.4†
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 28 City of Fowler
This designation is typically programmed near activity centers, homes, and the
downtown. Neighborhood Commercial uses are most appropriate on sites of 10
acres or smaller.
CC – Community commercial provides an activity center oriented towards the
Community downtown district. The designation is also appropriate outside the downtown in
Commercial primary commercial districts where a range of retail, financial, governmental, and 13.6-21.8
entertainment activities occur. Mixed use residential uses are also encouraged in du/ac
Community Commercial locations. Maximum
FAR 0.4
This designation is typically programmed near major intersections and State
Route 99.
GC – General General commercial provides for commercial areas with a wide range of retail and
Commercial service activities along major traffic corridors and at the interchange of major
streets with Highway 99 and Golden State Boulevard and are intended to provide Maximum
for visitor-serving uses, including restaurants, lodging, and gasoline service areas. FAR 0.4
This designation is typically programmed near major intersections and State
Route 99
Industrial Land Use
LI – Light Light industrial provides for uses such as business park, research and
Industrial development, low intensity warehousing, fabricating, assembly, and other similar
industrial uses, which are typically conducted indoors.
Maximum
This designation is typically programmed along the State Route 99 and Golden FAR 0.6
State Boulevard corridor in order to provide a buffer between Heavy Industrial
uses and non-industrial designations.
HI – Heavy Heavy industrial provides for uses such as manufacturing, fabricating, process,
Industrial assembling, wholesale and storage uses, trucking terminals, and quasi-public and
utility structures and facilities. Heavy industrial often requires exposed or
unenclosed processing and storage of uncovered materials or equipment. Maximum
FAR 0.6
This designation is typically programmed along the State Route 99 and Golden
State Boulevard corridor.
Open Space and Public Facilities Land Use
P/OS – Parks Parks and open space include areas of permanent open spaces, parks, and/or
and Open areas precluded from major development. Maximum
Space FAR 0.25
This designation is dependent on land acquisition for determining the final
location. Parks should be equally distributed throughout the City.
PF – Public Public facility includes areas owned and/or maintained by public or institutional Maximum
Facilities agencies such as facilities owned by the City, schools, hospitals, and similar FAR 0.25
facilities
*du/ac: dwelling units per acre
†FAR: floor area ratio
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 29 City of Fowler
Residential uses make up a significant portion of the land uses within the planning area at 55 percent.
Industrial uses occupy approximately 34.3 percent of the planning area, while commercial and open spaces
uses occupy just 6.9 and 3.6 percent, respectively. City of Fowler land uses are listed in Table 3-1.
The General Plan Planning Area encompasses approximately 5,669 acres, which is approximately
1,189.5 acres larger than the 4,474 acres in the existing SOI. The table below depicts the City’s land uses
identified by the 2040 General Plan.24
Table 3-1. Fowler 2040 General Plan Land Use Acreage
Land Use Designation Total Acreage (%)a,b,c
Low Density Residential 790 (16.5%)
Medium Low Residential 937 (18.9%)
Medium Residential 733 (14.7%)
Medium High Residential 203 (4.1%)
High Residential 83 (1.7%)
Residential Subtotal 2,746 (55%)
Neighborhood Commercial 28 (0.6%)
Community Commercial 104 (2.1%)
General Commercial 210 (4.2%)
Commercial Subtotal 342 (6.9%)
Light Industrial 598 (12%)
Heavy Industrial 1,105 (22.2%)
Industrial Subtotal 1,703 (34.3%)
Parks/Open Space 55 (1.1 %)
Public Facilities 123 (2.5%)
Open Space Subtotal 178 (3.6%)
Total 4,970c
a Acreage is for Fowler 2040 General Plan planning area
b Excludes Public Right-of-Way
c Total may differ from the sum due to rounding
Current Population
As of January 1, 2025, the California Department of Finance (“DOF”) estimates that the City has a population
of approximately 7,667, which indicates a 3.1 percent increase from Fowler’s 2024 population of 7,436.25
As per the applicant, the City of Fowler provides extraterritorial sewer service to areas outside of city limits
but still within the SOI. One property receives extraterritorial water service within the SOI, outside of city
limits.
24 During the preparation of this MSR, a discrepancy was identified between LAFCo’s Planning Area for the City of Fowler and the General Plans
Planning Area for the City of Fowler. This MSR recognizes that the Planning Area for the City of Fowler is 5,669 acres.
25 California Department of Finance, Population Estimates, published May 1, 2025. Website:
https://dof.ca.gov/forecasting/demographics/estimates/e-4-population-estimates-for-cities-counties-and-the-state-2021-2025-with-2020-census-
benchmark/
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 30 City of Fowler
The City estimates that between 93 and 96 people live in unincorporated land within the SOI. The City’s
estimated calculation is derived by multiplying the 30 residential dwelling units by the City’s approximate
3.2 persons per household (high), and the County’s 3.1 persons per household throughout the entire county
(low).26
Figure 3-2. Annual Estimates of Resident Population: January 1, 2016 to May 1, 2025
2016 2017 2018 2019 Census 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
(April 1,
2020)
Fowler,
California 6,122 6,263 6,349 6,440 6,713 6,837 6,952 7,193 7,436 7,667
Source: State of California, Department of Finance Table E-4
In contrast, according to the US Census 2019-2023 American Community Survey five-year reports, City of
Fowler’s population averaged 6,930 residents during the surveyed time period. Of the total City population,
71.3 percent are 18 years or older, and 12.6 percent were 65 years old and over.27 The City’s male to female
is 46.3 percent and 53.7 percent, respectively. The majority of the City’s population identify themselves as
Hispanic/Latino.
Within the City limits, there are approximately 2,382 housing units. Of the available housing units, roughly
106 are unoccupied. Approximately 55.4 percent of the occupied homes are owner occupied, while less
than 45 percent are renter occupied. The average household size is 3.02, while the average family size is
3.76. During 2019-2023, there were approximately 1,587 families residing within the City.
The City of Fowler is known as “The Blossom Trail City.” After the establishment of the Fresno County Blossom
Trail in 1988, Fowler naturally adopted its name after its unique involvement in the trail. With its distinctive
raisin and nut packaging plants, the City has promoted a sense of community and tourism that expresses
Fowler’s agricultural beauty.28
According to the US Census 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-year reports of Fowler’s population
25 years and over, 20.3 percent graduated from high school, approximately 20.7 percent have college
experience, approximately 16.4 percent earned a bachelor’s degree, and approximately 7.2 percent have a
graduate or professional degree. Income levels within the City are lower than those of the County. During
2019-2023, the City’s average household income was $61,071, and Fresno County’s average household
income was $71,689 for the same period.
The City of Fowler preserves the community’s character through the vital support to its local businesses.
Advocacy for local businesses not only fosters the cultural diversity among goods and services but also
creates a sustainable city. During 2019-2023, the City of Fowler consisted of approximately 2,723 employed
civilians, which means working people over 16 years of age. The City currently has 249 business licenses.
211 of them are active, 34 of them have a delinquent status, while four (4) are currently pending approval.
The City of Fowler employs a workforce of 46 individuals, comprising 39 full-time staff and 7 part-time staff.
26 Household size obtained from the Fresno Multi-Jurisdictional 2023-2031 Housing Element, MJHE pages 2-10.
27 U.S. Census Bureau, 2019-2023 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, City of Fowler.
28 Fresno County Blossom Trail. Website: https://www.goblossomtrail.com/PointsofInterest.asp
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 31 City of Fowler
Recent Growth Trends
The City of Fowler’s historic population data between 2000 and 2025 is presented in Figure 3-4. Between
2000 and 2010, Fowler experienced growth of nearly 39.9 percent. Between 2010 and 2016, overall growth
averaged over 9.9 percent. Between 2016 and 2025, the average annual growth was 2.53 percent. These
trends are one of the major indicators of the City’s potential growth over the Fowler General Plan’s 2040
planning horizon.
Fowler’s Growth Projections
While the State Department of Finance provides regional growth projections for the San Joaquin Valley, the
City of Fowler has adopted an average annual growth rate of approximately three percent through 2030 as
its planning benchmark. This policy assumption forms the basis for the City’s long range population forecast,
as illustrated in Figure 35, which extends projections through 2035.
Another source of information referenced in this report is a more recent study, “Fresno County 2060
Growth Projection,” prepared by the Fresno Council of Governments (“COG”). The study provides
population growth estimates, job growth projections, and housing characteristics in Fresno County. COG
compiled multiple jurisdictional information about planned development projects that will drive regional
growth in the short term and long term.
Figure 3-4. Historical Population Growth, 2000-2025
YEAR POPULATION % INCREASE
4/1/2000 3,979
4/1/2010 5,570 39.9%
1/1/2016 6,122 9.9%
1/1/2017 6,263 2.3%
1/1/2018 6,349 1.4%
1/1/2019 6,440 1.4%
4/1/2020 6,713 4.2%
1/1/2021 6,837 1.8%
1/1/2022 6,952 1.7%
1/1/2023 7,193 3.5%
1/1/2024 7,436 3.4%
5/1/2025 7,667 3.1%
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 32 City of Fowler
Figure 3-5. Population Forecast, 2025-2035
Based on 3% Growth Rate
Year Total Population
2025 7,667
2026 7,897
2027 8,134
2028 8,378
2029 8,629
2030 8,888
2031 9,155
2032 9,430
2033 9,713
2034 10,004
2035 10,304
The COG study forecasted a 0.97 percent annual population growth rate within the Fowler SOI. COG
estimated that approximately 3,250 new residents may be accommodated within the Fowler SOI by 2060
and that the City of Fowler would reach the following population levels by the listed years.29
Figure 3-6. Fresno COG’s Fowler Population Estimates
Year Total Population
2020 6,713
2022 7,310
2025 7,660
2030 8,240
2035 8,910
2040 9,550
2045 10,110
2050 10,480
2055 10,630
2060 10,560
Housing Element
Legislature has declared that LAFCo’s role in promoting orderly formation and development of local
agencies includes consideration of accommodating additional growth and providing necessary
governmental services and housing for persons and families of all incomes in the most efficient manner
feasible.30
According to the Regional Housing Needs Allocation for the Fowler 2023-2031 Housing Element, the City has
the potential to add an estimated 339 dwelling units, based on current vacant and/or underutilized parcels
within the years 2013-2023.
29 Fresno County 2023-2060 Growth Projections, page 4. Website: https://www.fresnocog.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2024-Fresno-COG-
2023-2060-Growth-Projections-REPORT.pdf
30 California Government Code section 56001, Legislative Findings and Declarations, State Interest.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 33 City of Fowler
The City of Fowler anticipates a bountiful amount of residential development that will occur on land within
the current Fowler SOI. The City expands infrastructure and resources with approved development and
annexation.
Figure 3-7. Regional Housing Needs Allocation 2023-2031
Housing Units by Income Level
Jurisdiction Total Housing
Units
Very Low* Low Moderate Above
Moderate
Fowler 94 57 47 141 339
*Adjusted to include extremely low-income units
Source: Fresno COG Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plan, November 2023.
Land Use Entitlements, City Approvals for Development
As of the writing of this MSR, the City is actively processing applications for new subdivisions and
commercial structures. Of these applications, several are residential and/or commercial development
projects, which include the following:
1. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6486 – proposed Tentative Map for 871 single family homes over
138.9 acres.
2. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6520 – proposed Tentative Map for 180 single family homes over
39.67 acres.
3. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6519 – proposed Tentative Map for 183 single family homes over
38.5 acres.
4. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6529 – proposed Tentative Map for 194 single family homes over
38.67 acres.
5. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6537 – proposed Tentative Map for 199 single family homes over
40 acres.
6. Site Plan Review No. 25-22 – proposed truck sales and service center over 17.63 acres
7. Conditional Use Permit No. 22-41 – approved truck stop, tire repair, three restaurants, and 120
room hotels over 18.72 acres.
8. Site Plan Review No. 23-13 – approved 10-unit multi-family development over approximately 0.52
acres.
9. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6471 – approved tentative map for the development of 44 light
industrial lots over 30.65 acres.
10. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6501 – approved tentative map for the development of 103 single
family homes over 19.86 acres
11. Tentative Subdivision Map No. 6409 – approved tentative map for the development of 114 single
family homes over 23.24 acres.
12. Conditional Use Permit No. 25-04 – approved 116-unit multi-family development over 7.59 acres.
Project subject to securing grant funding.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 34 City of Fowler
Building Permits
Figure 3-8 describes the number of total building permits issued between 2020 through September 2025.
Figure 3-8. Building Permit Activity, 2020 to 2025
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
Type of Use 46 118 90 53 86 82
New single-family homes,
1
detached
New single-family homes,
1
attached
Multi-family residences 8 2 3 1 3 2
Other nonresidential building 4 2 2 3 7
Structures other than building 1 4 2
Solar installations, non-
85 82 97 116 66 39
residential
Solar installations, residential 118 93 73 124 67
Residential
12 21 12 13 16
additions/alterations
Nonresidential
2 1
additions/alterations
Additions/alterations garages
1 2 2
and carports
Nonresidential HVAC
15 11 22 22 19 9
(Changeout)
Residential HVAC (Changeout) 4 1 2 5 4
Demolition, single-family
1 2 4
residential
Demolition, all other buildings /
8 19 9 3 11 6
structures
Source: Building Division
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 35 City of Fowler
Vacant Land Inventory
During the 2025 MSR process, the City informed LAFCo that there were approximately 1,321 acres of vacant
land and 560 acres of underdeveloped land with the SOI. Underdeveloped land consists of lands that are
mostly vacant open space and farmland but contain a residence or minor structures onsite. Of the 1,321 acres
of vacant land in the SOI, 77 acres are designated by the General Plan for single-family low-density residential
uses. Of the 560 acres of underdeveloped land within the SOI, 195 acres are designated by the General Plan
for single-family low-density residential uses.
Fowler’s Growth Strategies
The City of Fowler’s General plan adopts a growth management strategy that encourages the organization
of land development to efficiently control the expansion of municipal services while preserving current
services. These strategies promote a balance with the demand for new development, thereby preventing
the premature conversion of farmland and other natural resources and open spaces.
Fowler has implemented urban growth boundaries to regulate growth in accordance with state regulations.
In adopting this method, each growth tier is managed through an associated threshold that dictates the
timing of an annexation to the city. These thresholds are determined on the number of building permits
issued for residential, commercial, and industrial development.
The growth management strategy applies to four urban growth tiers: Priority Development Area (PDA),
Urban Growth Tier I, Urban Growth Tier II, and Urban Growth Tier III. See Figure 3-8.
Priority Development Area (PDA) – The area where growth and development are highly prioritized
consisting of approximately 3,962 acres. It reinforces infill development within and around the City limits,
along the expansion of industrial and commercial lands along the State Route (SR) 99 and Golden State
Boulevard corridors.
Urban Growth Tier I – The area located west of the PDA encompasses approximately 697 acres and is
designated for mixed-use zoning, including a combination of residential, commercial, and open space uses.
• Annexation of area anticipated for Medium High Density Residential or High Density Residential in
Tier I only after:
112 building permits are issued for new dwelling units on properties zoned for MHDR or
o
HDR to the PDA after December 31, 2021.
• Annexation of area anticipated for Low Density Residential, Medium Low Density Residential, or
Medium Density Residential in Tier I only after:
1,512 building permits for new dwelling units on properties zoned for LDR, MLDR, and MDR
o
have been issued to the PDA after December 31, 2021.
1,552 building permits are issued for new dwelling units on properties zoned for MHDR or
o
HDR to the PDA after December 31, 2021
Urban Growth Tier II – The area located to the north and east of the PDA comprises approximately 744
acres and is primarily designated for residential land uses, with limited commercial development.
• Annexation of area anticipated for Medium High Density Residential or High Density Residential in
Tier II only after:
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 36 City of Fowler
789 building permits are issued for new dwelling units on properties zoned for MHDR or
o
HDR in the PDA or Tier I.
• Annexation of area anticipated for Low Density Residential, Medium Low Density Residential, or
Medium Density Residential in Tier II only after:
3,005 building permits for new dwelling units on properties zoned for LDR, MLDR, or MDR
o
have been issued to the PDA or Tier I after December 31, 2021.
1,068 building permits for new dwelling units on properties zoned for MHDR or HDR in the
o
PDA or Tier I have been issued after December 31, 2021.
Urban Growth Tier III – The area is located south of the PDA and west of Manning Avenue, comprising of
approximately 287 acres. This section is planned for residential, commercial, and industrial land use.
• Annexation of area anticipated for Medium High Density Residential and High Density Residential
in Tier III only after:
1,492 building permits for new dwelling units on properties zoned for MHDR or HDR have
o
been issued to the PDA, Tier I, or Tier II after December 31, 2021.
• Annexation of area anticipated for Low Density Residential, Medium Low Density Residential, and
Medium Density Residential in Tier III only after:
5,245 building permits for new dwelling units on properties zoned for LDR, MLDR, or MDR
o
have been issued to the PDA, Tier I, or Tier II after December 31, 2021.
2,053 building permits for new dwelling units on properties zoned for MHDR or HDR in the
o
PDA, Tier I, or Tier II have been issued after December 31, 2021.
In addition to the growth management strategy, the City of Fowler’s Planning Department has also adopted
plans focusing on the facilitation and preparation for the future development of the city.
• Traffic Impact Analysis Guidelines-Resolution No. 2763 – Provides guidance to the City of Fowler
on how to assess transportation impacts of projects in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
• Community Landscapes Plan (2019) – Focuses on improving the health and economic stability of
the community, specifical those impacts by significant greenhouse gas emissions from nearby
freeways and railroads, through the delineation of districts, greenways, modification of land use
policies, and more.
• Central Fowler Revitalization Plan (2007) – Identify improvements to Merced Street and Golden
State Boulevard that would foster a safe, welcoming pedestrian environment, while also creating
a plan to revitalize surrounding blocks for a vibrant, unified downtown.
• South Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency (SKGSA) – Responsible for sustainable
management of groundwater in the portion of the King’s Subbasin underlying the SKGSA’s
boundary.
• Bicycle, Pedestrian, & Trails Master Plan (2024) – Transform Fowler into a vibrant, walkable city
with safe and comfortable travel options.31
31 City of Fowler Bike, Walk, & Trails Plan. Website: https://www.fowlercity.org/planning/page/bike-walk-trails-plan
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 37 City of Fowler
Figure 3-8: Growth Management Tiers
I
'~ 3 i ~ i h ~ 0 :: ,
~ ~ 0 " ~ ;i:
" z ' ~ ! i!i
om :i' j
-!),-t,.
~~l::HJc:AN
"
ii
_J i
~1
JFFfERSQN JllAERSON
IINrnt.N
Urban Growth Tier II
7"1Ac
CI.A'l'IONI
Primary Development Area;
3962 Ac
Urban
Growth
Tier I
697 Ac
'-OTT
50111H
r ~n
~NNING Growth
Tier Ill
217Ac
L -
51111 ,ncLO
8oundorfes
lml
Prlmarv ~~eloP-ment Area
Urban Grow h Tier I INNUl:!:A
ti .,
Urban Grow h Tier II I
$ i
- Urban Grow h Tier Ill ~ ,:_!i
~0
c::J Planning Area
HUN 1.!iMAN
Pr~pa~ 6)1 @
PROV ST& 0 0.25 0.5
PRITCHARD Mile~
Source: City of Fowler 2040 General Plan
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 38 City of Fowler
Figure 3-9: Land Use Diagram
'~ g I ~ i b ~ 0 : ,
zw 0 ! ~ : i! ;I i
z
j
~
t AM~HJOiN
I r
:i;
~
JEFFERSON Jl[ffUSCIN
,',Dl<Mi
w,i.1rrn
..
MOTT
Boundaries WLIIII
, C : : J , Primary Oevelopme11t Area
Urban Gro h Tier I
U,ba n Grow h Tier II
.: : 1 Urban Growth Tier 111
CJ
Pl nnlng Area
land Us:Ets
Low Oensitv Resideritiaf
- + + NI~
Medium Low Den~1ly Residential
-
Medium Den~Rv esid,rn tial
-
Medium High Oe.nsiry Residential
- High Uen sity Residential 111 nn.o
-
N@ighbo hood commercial
Communltv Commercial
General Commercl
ornua,,
- Light l11dus ria I . l w e .
Heal/V lnclu5trial "' $ :5 ! i !,
Parks a,n d Open Sc:iate ~· ~ i
d' C~
Py blic Facili ie5
---,-M-UNISMAN
Prepared ffy 0
PROVOST& 0 0.25 0.5
PRITCHARD iles
Source: City of Fowler 2040 General Plan
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 39 City of Fowler
The Fowler General Plan goals and policies represent the official City position regarding the desired nature,
disposition, and quality of development within the community. To effectively manage City growth through
2040, the General Plan includes numerous goals and policies promoting compact development, in-fill
development, and significant increases to residential and commercial density ranges. By design, these tools
are to ensure a managed, controlled, and orderly growth pattern over the entire planning horizon.
Annexation Policies
Currently, the City of Fowler’s General Plan establishes the City’s Annexation Policy, which entails its
commitment by the City to maintain an updated Memorandum of Understanding with County of Fresno.32
As of September 2017, the County and City of Fowler Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sets forth the
following:
a) The County shall not approve any discretionary development permit for new urban
development within the City’s SOI unless that development has first been referred to the
City.
b) That development is orderly.
c) County shall require development standards of the City, when development is within the
existing SOI.
d) The City application for the annexation of any new territory be consistent with the Cortese-
Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000.
e) City initiated annexations shall have development imminent, with at minimum fifty (50)
percent of the proposed area having an approved site plan and/or tentative map.
In the General Plan, LU-7a Action Item - Review the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the County
of Fresno and initiate negotiations to amend the MOU, if necessary, to ensure City review of development
applications with the City’s Sphere of Influence.
Furthermore, all annexation requests to the City are subject to LAFCo’s Policy 210 – Standards for
Annexation to Cities and Special Districts That Provide Municipal Services and Policy 210.09 - Prezoning
Requirement. In summary, the following LAFCo policies regulate the City’s ability to annex new territory
into the City’s corporate boundaries:
• 210.01. Proposal is consistent with the affected agency’s sphere of influence and does not
conflict with the goals and policies of the Commission.
• 210.02. Proposal to annex to a city is consistent with the affected City’s land use plan by
prezoning and approval of planning entitlement applications. Proposal to annex to a special
district has been deemed consistent with the affected special district’s service plan.
• 210.03. Proposal mitigates any significant adverse effect on continuing agricultural operations on
adjacent properties by execution of a right-to-farm covenant.
• 210.04. Proposal is consistent with the affected city’s general plan, is contiguous to the
affected city, and demonstrates in its service plan that it will result in logical, orderly, and
efficient service delivery.
• 210.05. Proposal shows that there is existing substantial development or gives an indication of
imminent development in the form of an approved tentative subdivision map or site plan
32 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, Land Use Element Policy, LU 2.5.10. Note: existing LU 2.5.10 language will be amended by City in 2020 to
ensure consistency, as it currently states 50% (which is from the previous MOU).
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 40 City of Fowler
review, requiring municipal services.
• 210.06. Proposal’s service plan demonstrates that development can be provided all necessary
services, public improvements, and facilities.
• 210.07. Proposals that would create islands are discouraged. Boundaries should minimize
creation of peninsulas and corridors and should include any developed islands or substantially
surrounded area with the proposed developing area.
• 210.08. There is a timely availability of water supplies adequate for projected needs as specified
in GC sec. 65352.5.
Collaborative Regional Planning Efforts
The City of Fowler has actively participated in the San Joaquin Valley Blueprint planning process. Initiated
in 2006, the Blueprint process is a collaborative regional effort comprised of seven Valley Councils of
Governments (COGs) and one Regional Transportation Planning Agency, collectively representing
jurisdictions throughout the San Joaquin Valley
In 2010, the San Joaquin Valley Blueprint Council, the decision-making body of the Blueprint planning
process, adopted 12 Growth Principles that reflect its vision for the future of the San Joaquin Valley. The
San Joaquin Valley Blueprint Smart Growth Principles are:
a) Create a range of housing opportunities and choices.
b) Create walkable neighborhoods.
c) Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration.
d) Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place.
e) Make development decisions predictable, fair, and cost-effective.
f) Mix land uses.
g) Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas.
h) Provide a variety of transportation choices.
i) Strengthen and direct development towards existing communities.
j) Take advantage of compact building design.
k) Enhance the economic vitality of the region.
l) Support actions that encourage environmental resource management.
In the process of updating the Fowler General Plan, the Growth Principles have been used to develop or
update many of the Fowler General Plan policies.
Future Fowler Sphere of Influence Updates
During the preparation of this MSR, the City of Fowler informed LAFCo that no additional SOI revisions are
anticipated within the next five years. The current SOI proposal, which seeks to expand the City’s
boundaries by approximately 1,189.5 acres, is the only revision under consideration. The proposed
expansion encompasses three areas: 80 acres in the northeast, 412.5 acres on the south side, and 697
acres on the west side.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 41 City of Fowler
4. Agriculture Preservation
Municipal Service Reviews (“MSR”) and Spheres of Influences (“SOI”) empower LAFCo to implement its
legislative objective to “discourage urban sprawl, preserve open-space and prime agricultural lands, and
encourage the orderly formation and development of local agencies based upon local conditions and
circumstances (GC section 56301).” Although LAFCo does not have direct land use authority and does not
manage service-providing agencies, LAFCo serves as an intermediary for the state in addressing growth
challenges through the implementation of SOI determinations and periodic SOI updates for cities and
special districts as mandated in GC section 56425. In this section, the MSR will evaluate the City’s policies
that support the preservation of agricultural farmland.
Prime Agriculture
LAFCo notes that there are two similar definitions for “Prime Agricultural Land” set forth in California
statute. State law defines “Prime Agricultural Land” (“PAL”) for cities and counties in Government Code
Section 51201 as any of the following:
a. All land that qualifies for rating as class I or class II in the Natural Resource Conservation Service
land use capability classifications.
b. Land which qualifies for rating 80 through 100 in the Storie Index Rating.
c. Land which supports livestock used to produce food and fiber and which has an annual carrying
capacity equivalent to at least one animal unit per acre as defined by the United States
Department of Agriculture.
d. Land planted with fruit- or nut-bearing trees, vines, bushes, or crops which have a nonbearing
period of less than five years and which will normally return during the commercial bearing period
on an annual basis from the production of unprocessed agricultural plant production not less than
two hundred dollars ($200) per acre.33
e. Land which has returned from the production of unprocessed agricultural plant products and
annual gross value of not less than two hundred dollars ($200) per acre for three of the previous
five years.
In contrast, LAFCo law provides a similar but not identical definition: Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local
Government Reorganization Act, Government Code Section 56064 defines PAL as an area of land, whether
a single parcel or contiguous parcels, that has not been developed for a use other than an agricultural use
and that meets any of the following qualifications (substantive differences with GC sec. 51201 are italicized):
a) Land that qualifies, if irrigated, for rating as class I or class II in the USDA Natural Resources
Conservation Service land use capability classification, whether or not land is actually irrigated,
provided that irrigation is feasible.
b) Land that qualifies for rating 80 through 100 Storie Index Rating.
c) Land that supports livestock used for the production of food and fiber and that has an annual
carrying capacity equivalent to at least one animal unit per acre as defined by the United States
Department of Agriculture in the National Range and Pasture Handbook, Revision 1, December
2003.
d) Land planted with fruit or nut-bearing trees, vines, bushes, or crops that have a nonbearing period
of less than five years and that will return during the commercial bearing period on an annual
33 California Government Code section 51201.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 42 City of Fowler
basis from the production of unprocessed agricultural plant production not less than four hundred
dollars ($400) per acre.
e) Land that has returned from the production of unprocessed agricultural plant products an annual
gross value of not less than four hundred dollars ($400) per acre34 for three of the previous five
calendar years.
Fowler General Plan 2040 Development Capacity and Growth Management
Fowler’s 2040 General Plan uses a tiered growth strategy to manage population increase, economic
development, and land use while protecting agricultural resources and ensuring sustainable infrastructure
expansion. This structure ensures balanced and sustainable growth by prioritizing infill development,
protecting farmland, and aligning infrastructure expansion with actual demand. This will help the City of
Fowler remain resilient, efficient, and community focused as it grows toward 2040.
The projected growth plan supports approximately 48,130 residents and 30,670 jobs at full buildout. The
growth management aligns development with city goals, manages service expansion, and prevents
premature urban sprawl.
Figure 4-1. The General Plan Urban Growth Tiers
Area
Urban Growth Tier Development Focus
(Acres)
Priority Development Area 3,962 Infill, industrial, and commercial development
(PDA)
Growth Tier I 697 Mix of residential, commercial, and open space west of
PDA
Growth Tier II 744 Primarily residential with limited commercial to the
North and East
Growth Tier III 287 Residential, commercial, and industrial use south of
PDA
Growth management strategies encourage the orderly development of land to effectively manage
municipal service expansion and maintain services for existing development. Additionally, they aim to
balance growth with demand for new development, reducing the premature conversion of farmland and
other natural resources and open space areas.
Fowler has established urban growth boundaries to effectively manage growth while meeting the
requirements of state legislation. In adopting this approach, the City has established growth boundaries
and associated thresholds to determine when development may occur from one growth boundary to the
next. Once development thresholds within a specific growth tier have been met, additional growth tiers are
opened, allowing infrastructure to expand, but only after a majority of the development potential within
existing urban areas has been realized.
34 California Government Code section 56064.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 43 City of Fowler
Fowler General Plan: Land Use Goals, Policies and Action Items
Implementation of the City of Fowler 2040 General Plan anticipates future population and economic growth
and presents the land use policies to accommodate this planned growth. These actions aim to focus on
infill development within the PDA before additional growth is considered in the subsequent Urban Growth
Tiers. Per the Fowler 2040 General Plan, “This element also includes policies to discourage the premature
conversion of productive agricultural lands, protect agricultural lands that border the City’s planning area,
and encourage more urban agriculture uses throughout the City.”
The City’s collective Land Use, Development Capacity and Growth Management, and Policies are designed
to ensure the avoidance and premature conversion of agricultural land. While not ensuring the permanent
preservation of all agricultural land within the Fowler SOI, the General Plan growth tiers seek to avoid and
discourage the premature conversion of productive agricultural land prioritizing infill development within
the urbanized areas of the City.
Goal LU-1 Growth occurs logically and efficiently.
Goal LU-2 A wide range of housing types are available to accommodate all housing needs in the community.
Goal LU-3 Thriving commercial centers are located throughout the City.
Goal LU-4 There are continued opportunities for the expansion of industrial land uses.
Land Use and Zoning Compatibility
Land uses established by the General Plan are implemented by other local regulatory documents, primarily
the Zoning Ordinance. The Zoning Ordinance sets specific standards for what types of uses can locate within
a certain land use designation, as well as standards for site and building design. Because the General Plan
and Zoning Ordinance work together to regulate development activity, it is required zoning be consistent
with the General Plan35.
Policy LU-1 Development shall occur in accordance with the planned land uses as shown on Figure 3-9:
Land Use Diagram.
Policy LU-2. Other zoning districts may be determined to be consistent with a land use designation based
on compatibility with the intent of the designation and its specified density or intensity range. Such density
or intensity range shall be calculated based on gross acres.
Policy LU-3 For a plan amendment and/or rezoning request, the City may require submittal of supplemental
information to determine the need for the plan amendment or rezoning.
Supplemental information would be in addition to the items required for submittal at the time of
application for a plan amendment or rezoning request.
35 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, pages 16-20.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 44 City of Fowler
Policy LU-4 The overall maximum density of the land use designation shall not be exceeded, except when
a project is eligible for increased density as part of a Planned Unit Development or under the State Density
Bonus Law.
Policy LU-5 Residential developments may use the average density across the total project site to meet
density requirements, so that development may be clustered at higher densities in certain areas, so long as
the project total does not exceed the maximum density permitted by the General Plan.
Policy LU-6 Coordinate planning of the unincorporated area within the Sphere of Influence (“SOI”) with
Fresno County and encourage the County to zone unincorporated areas within the SOI for continued
agricultural use.
Policy LU-7 Request Fresno County refers to all proposals for development located within the City’s Sphere
of Influence to the City for annexation. In cases where annexation is not feasible, the City may request the
County attach conditions of approval to such applications to ensure the development will conform to City
standards, will agree to annex when feasible, and will not be detrimental to future urban development in
the City.
• Action Item LU-7a Review the Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with the County of Fresno
and initiate negotiations to amend the MOU, if necessary, to ensure City review of development
applications with the City’s Sphere of Influence.
Fowler General Plan: Agricultural Resources
The California Department of Conservation’s Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (“FMMP”)
produces maps and statistical data used for analyzing impacts on California’s agricultural resources. As part
of this process, agricultural land is categorized according to soil quality and irrigation status. These
agricultural categories include Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland,
Farmland of Local Importance, and Urban and Built-Up Land. Most of the planning areas are designated as
Prime Farmland or Urban and Built-Up Land.36
Policy SAF-32: Facilitate urban agriculture by supporting community gardens and recognize their value in
providing fresh food in urban areas in addition to their recreational, community building, landscaping, and
educational value.
• Action Item SAF-32a Review and revise, as needed, zoning regulations to allow community gardens
and similar urban agriculture uses.
• Action Item SAF-32b Review and revise local policies, including plant lists, to ensure local
landscaping attracts butterflies and other pollinating species.
Policy SAF-33: Promote the preservation and economic viability of agricultural land adjacent to the Fowler
planning area.
36 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, pages 84-85.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 45 City of Fowler
• Action Item SAF-33a Amend local ordinances to require open space or other buffers for new
development abutting agricultural areas planned for long-term use.
Policy SAF-34: Discourage the premature conversion of productive agricultural lands.
• Action Item SAF-34a Utilize master plans and the Capital Improvement Program (“CIP”) to
implement the extension of urban services efficiently and responsibly.
• Action Item SAF-34b Support the use of Williamson Act contracts to prevent the premature
conversion of farmland and review and revise, as needed, the Fowler Municipal Code to facilitate
the continuation of Williamson Act Contracted parcels, as appropriate, following annexation.
The Williamson Act is a program that enables local governments to enter into contracts with private
landowners for the purpose of restricting specific parcels of land to agricultural or related open space use.
In return, landowners receive property tax assessments which are much lower than normal because they
are based upon farming and open space uses as opposed to full market value.
• Action Item SAF-34c Review and revise, as appropriate, zoning regulations allowing for continued
agriculture use in the City limits where no development is proposed in the near-term.
Policy SAF-35 Require new development occurring in proximity to existing agricultural uses to acknowledge
the potential effects of agricultural operations.
• Action Item SAF-35a Adopt a Right-to-Farm Ordinance.
• Action Item SAF-35b Prior to adoption of a Right-to-Farm Ordinance, continues to require that
purchasers of homes located in the vicinity of agricultural operations be provided a Right-to-Farm
notification of such activities by way of deeds and/or escrow documentation.
Existing Land Uses
Land immediately surrounding the Fowler city limits consists of predominantly agricultural and incidental
rural residential land uses. Residential uses make up the largest category within the city limits at nearly 31
percent, followed by vacant land at 22 percent. Agricultural uses make up a significant portion of both the
SOI and expansion area, at 84.2 percent and 89.7 percent, respectively.
Within the overall planning area, agriculture occupies 63.9 percent of the land; residential uses occupy
approximately 10 percent, industrial uses make up 9.4 percent, while commercial and office use occupy
just 2.7 percent. Public uses, such as churches, government facilities, schools, and other utilities, occupy an
additional 5 percent. The remaining 9 percent comprises vacant land and right-of-way. Most existing
development lies on the east side of SR 99, although substantial residential development exists to the west.
Retail and industrial uses are generally clustered along the eastern side of SR 99.
Williamson Act Contracts
The California Land Conservation Act, or Williamson Act was adopted in 1965 to encourage the preservation
of agricultural lands in view of the increase in trend toward their “premature and unnecessary”
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 46 City of Fowler
urbanization.37 The Williamson Act enables counties and cities to designate agricultural preserves and offer
preferential taxation to agricultural landowners based on the income-producing value of the land. In return
for the preferential tax rate, the landowner is required to sign a Land Conservation Contract (“LCC”) with
the county or city agreeing not to develop the land for a minimum of 10 years. The LCC is renewed
automatically on its anniversary date unless a notice of nonrenewal or a petition for cancellation is filed
with the respective agency.
According to the Williamson Act Enrollment Finder, many properties located in the Fowler SOI are identified
under LCC. As of June 2025, there are 60 parcels within the proposed Fowler SOI that are identified under
an existing LLC.
According to the Fowler 2040 General Plan, the City intends to, “support the use of Williamson Act contracts
to prevent the premature conversion of farmland and review and revise, as needed, the Fowler Municipal
Code to facilitate the continuation of Williamson Act Contracted parcels, as appropriate, following
annexation.38
Fresno LAFCo Policy Standards for Annexation
The Fowler General Plan provides policies that support orderly and logical annexations to the City. All
annexations into the City of Fowler are subject to LAFCo’s Policy 210 – Standards for Annexation to Cities
and Special Districts and Policy 210.09 – Prezoning Requirement. LAFCo policy 210, requires that each
proposal is consistent with the adopted SOI of a city, and that the proposal is consistent with City or County
general plan, and that each proposal results in planned, well ordered, efficient development patterns and
service areas, and it discourages urban sprawl.
Prior to filing an annexation application with the LAFCo, each city must prezone the subject territory
consistent with the City’s general plan for any land proposed to be annexed by the city or petitioners. Pre-
zoning is the legal process of placing a city zoning designation by action of the City Council to
unincorporated territory or a portion of territory outside the city limits. LAFCo’s standards for annexation
also require that each proposal demonstrate that development can be provided with all urban services and
improvement or facilities necessary through a service plan. As such, annexations must be contiguous to
existing city limits and do not create islands, and minimize creation of peninsulas and corridors, or distort
jurisdictional boundaries.
37 California Government Code section 51200 et seq., The California Land Conservation Act of 1965.
38 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, page 85.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 47 City of Fowler
Figure 4-2. Land Conservation Contracts within Fowler SOI
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MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 48 City of Fowler
5. Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
The purpose of Senate Bill 244 (Wolk, 2011) is to address the complex legal, financial, and political barriers
that contribute to regional inequity and infrastructure deficits within disadvantaged unincorporated
communities (“DUC”). Cities, counties, special districts, and LAFCo all required by SB 244 to identify and
include DUCs in their respective long-range planning.
The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000 (“CKH”) requires LAFCos to
make determinations regarding DUCs for any updates to a SOI of a local agency (a city or special district)
that provides public facilities or services related to sewer, municipal and industrial water, or structural
fire protection. State law directs LAFCos to consider and prepare written determinations regarding the
present and planned capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services, and infrastructure needs
or deficiencies for any DUCs.
A DUC is defined as an inhabited unincorporated territory with an annual median household income that
is less than 80 percent of the statewide annual median household income as defined by California Water
Code section 79505.39 Furthermore, on January 9, 2013, Fresno LAFCo exercised its authority and
adopted a local policy refining the DUC definition to consist of at least 15 dwelling units, at a density not
less than one unit per acre.
Pursuant to LAFCO Policy 111-03, when approving any new or updated SOI for a city or special district,
the city or special district shall be required to identify DUCs within or contiguous to their boundaries in
their applications for Commission action.
CKH prohibits LAFCo from approving an annexation to a city of any territory greater than 10 acres if a DUC
is contiguous to the proposed annexation, unless an application to annex the DUC has been filed with
LAFCo.40 An application to annex a contiguous DUC shall not be required if a prior application for
annexation of the same DUC has been made in the preceding five years or if the commission finds, based
upon written evidence, that a majority of the registered voters within the affected DUC are opposed to
annexation.
This section of the MSR uses the American Community Survey (“ACS”) five-year estimates for years 2019
to 2023 datasets to identify the demographic composition of various locations near the City. The ACS is
sponsored by the U.S. Census Bureau and is part of the Decennial Census Program. According to the U.S.
Census Bureau, the ACS five-year reports are the most reliable form of information generated by the U.S.
Census because they are multiyear estimates utilized to describe average characteristics of population
and housing to give an average value over the full data period.
According to the 2019-23 ACS five-year estimates, Fowler’s reported income levels are lower than that
of the County. During 2019-23, Fowler had a reported MHI average of $61,071, while Fresno County
reported an MHI average of $71,434. During the same timeline, the Statewide MHI for California was
$96,334. Per Water Code, any location with a MHI less than $77,067 meets the income threshold for a
Disadvantaged Community. Based on MHI levels, Fowler is considered a Disadvantaged Community.
39 California Government Code section 56046 – definition of “inhabited territory”.
40 Fresno LAFCo policies also qualify contiguous as ‘or within 300 feet’ to the proposed annexation.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 49 City of Fowler
However, for the purpose of the LAFCo process, a DUC must be inhabited, located outside of a city’s
incorporated limits, within or contiguous to a city’s SOI, and have at least 15 dwelling units at a density
not less than one unit per acre. LAFCo staff did not identify any DUCs as defined by Commission policy
in or within a mile of the Fowler SOI.
Fowler 2025 MSR – DUC Determination
In 2020, the Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) mapped DUCs in Fresno County, and
there were no DUCs identified within the General Plan planning area.
The City informed LAFCo that it is complying SB 244, the planning for Disadvantaged Unincorporated
Communities Act, through its commitment with the Regional Collaboration Program, as called out in the
2023-2031 Multi-Jurisdictional Housing Element Action Plan for the City of Fowler. This plan states that
the City of Fowler will continue to participate in the Countywide Housing Element Technical Committee
to collaborate on housing program implementation and regional issues, including disadvantaged
unincorporated communities, infrastructure challenges, farmworker housing, homelessness, and fair
housing.41
41 2023-2031 MJHE Participating Agencies: Fresno County, Clovis, Coalinga, Fowler, Huron, Kerman, Kingsburg, Mendota, Parlier, Reedley, San
Joaquin, Sanger, and Selma.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 50 City of Fowler
6. Parks and Recreation Services
The City of Fowler’s mission is to provide parks and recreation facilities that are safe, accessible, and
connected to the community. Allowing passive and active recreation opportunities that are abundant
and coordinated across local facilities and organizations.
Event and recreation services are provided by the Recreation Department, while the Public Works
Department is responsible for maintaining the City’s recreational facilities, streetscape, parks, trails,
other landscaped open space areas, city trees, and city building grounds. The following includes all parks
within the City of Fowler.
• Panzak Park – 2.3 acres
• Donny Wright Park – 5.4 acres
• Margaret Cowings Park – 0.2 acres
• Fowler Veterans Monument – 0.1 acres
• Shirakawa Park – 1.4 acres
• K. Hovnanian 2 Neighborhood Park – 4.1 acres
• Somerset Crossing Neighborhood Park – 1 acres
• Abbey Park Neighborhood Park – 1.5 acres
The Recreation Commission
The Fowler Recreation Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Mayor serving a two-
year term commencing July 1st. Four of the commissioners are appointed in even number years, while
three are appointed in odd numbered years. The Chairman is elected by Commissioners every January.
The Chairman appoints a vice-chairman and secretary to serve one year. All members must reside within
the incorporated city limits, within the City’s approved Sphere of influence, or within the jurisdictional
boundaries of the Fowler Unified School District. The Recreation Commission meetings are held on the
second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers, 128 S. 5th Street, Fowler,
California 93625.
Current Recreation Commission Members
Chair Talene Kasparian-Cleveland
Vice Chair Stephanie Mejia
Secretary Monique Valasquez-Lopez
Member Roy Alatorre
Member Paul Khasigian
Member Ailynn Martinez
Member Jessica Monique Leal
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 51 City of Fowler
The Recreation Commission, with the leadership of the Recreation Department, coordinates community
events, music, sports, games, plays, celebrations and similar activities such as Annual Blossom Trail City
Springfest Celebration in Panzak Park, Annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, and the Fowler’s 4th of
July Celebration. The delivery of recreational programs to residents is executed through various
partnerships with local agencies, organizations, and community volunteers.
Furthermore, the City hosts “Wednesday Nights at the Park,” a special Fowler event where residents
are welcome to gather at Panzak Park to enjoy food trucks, live entertainment, craft vendors, and more.
This event allows resident connectivity, promotes local businesses, and fosters community spirit. It
occurs weekly from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., live music starting at 7:00 p.m. until closing. Each Wednesday
the City brings creativity and fun by assigning a theme to the night. Some of these themes include:
“Bollywood Night,” “Low Rider Night,” and “Viva Las Vegas Night.”
Senior Center
The Edwin Blayney Senior Center offers services to seniors around the Fowler community. Services
include nutritional lunch program, exercise classes, crafts, bingo, healthy living information and
homebound meal program. While the David T. Cardenas Senior Center and Police Headquarters
Building is under construction, the Edwin Blayney Senior Center’s temporary home is across the street
at the Fowler Baptist Church- 507 E. Merced Street Fowler, CA. 93625. The Center is the daily meeting
place for Fowler’s seniors and offers daily activities and lunch along with opportunities for social contact,
special outings, resources, and other assistance programs.
Additionally, Fowler has various intergovernmental partnerships that support the city’s vision to build
and maintain sustainable parks and recreational programs. Fowler’s intergovernmental partnerships
include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Public Works Department provides park maintenance services
• Police Department provides law and code enforcement
• The Development Department oversees land uses planning
• Fowler Unified allows for shared use of their facilities
Bicycle, Pedestrian, & Tails Master Plan
The Plan represents a collaborative initiative aimed at transforming the City of Fowler into a vibrant,
walkable community through the safe interconnection of transportation options for all ages and
abilities. This strategic and comprehensive approach addresses key challenges Fowler is facing, including
connectivity, public health, safety, and more. It seeks to link trails to bikeway networks, parks, and
outlying residential area. With active input from community members, City staff successfully developed
a plan that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the City. The Plan is guided by five goals to ensure
effectiveness and success:
• Develop a framework for the City’s Active Transportation Network.
• Prioritize safety and accessibly for people of all ages and abilities.
• Recommend new infrastructure, policies, and programs to support walking, rolling, and biking in
Fowler.
• Create a road map for implementation.
• Engage with residents in an inclusive and meaningful way.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 52 City of Fowler
General Plan: Open Space
The Open Space Element of the 2040 General Plan provides goals and policies that address the provision
of parks, trails, community centers, and multipurpose facilities to ensure the growth and development
of the City of Fowler. The General Plan Land Use Diagram identifies several sites for future parks and
open space in newly planned areas. These sites include underutilized lands as well as multi-benefit
areas. The Fowler Bicycle, Pedestrian, & Tails Master Plan aligns with the following General Plan Open
Space Element goals:42
• Goal OS-1: Open space areas form a connected network, linking Fowler’s residential
neighborhoods to passive and active recreation opportunities.
• Goal OS-2: Open space areas enhance community livability, provide opportunities for
improved public health, and are equitably distributed throughout the City.
• Goal OS-3: Recreational programming facilities meet the needs of community members of all
ages and abilities.
• Goal OS-4: Open space acquisition, development, programming, and maintenance is
adequately and reliably funded.
• Goal OS-5: Improve quality of life and environmental resilience through the development and
maintenance of the City’s urban forest.
The City of Fowler has set a standard of three acres of park/open space per 1,000 residents. This
includes a designated two acres of neighborhood park per 1,000 residents and one acre of community
park per 1,000 residents. 43
The General Plan classifies the City’s Park facilities in three categories: Community Plaza,
Neighborhood Park, and Community Park. The Community Plaza provides opportunities for public
gatherings or social events within an urban context. There is no size requirement for public plazas.
Neighborhood Parks may be up to two acres in size and provide both passive and active open space within
the community and within residential subdivisions when dedicated for public use. Access radius is 0.25
miles. Service Level Requirements are 2.0 per 1,000 residents. Community Parks range in size from just
over two acres to twenty-five acres and provide amenities for multiple age groups and opportunities for
passive and active recreation. Access radius is 0.5 Miles. Service Level Requirements are 1.0 per 1,000
residents.
Facilities and Capacity
The City of Fowler maintains approximately sixteen acres of existing park and recreation facilities that
contain building space dedicated to recreational and educational purposes distributed among the City’s
sites. Other facilities that provide site amenities include both passive and active recreation activity
features such as a senior center, a park support facility, and a City administrative building.
The covered area of the Panzak Park is available to rent subject to availability of desired date. Rental
fees for Residents are lower than Non-Residents. The park has a stage but is currently off limits to rental.
Figure 6-1 and Figure 6-2 provide visual information on the existing park and recreation facilities in the
City of Fowler.
42 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, pages 52-59.
43 Ibid.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 53 City of Fowler
Figure 6-1. City of Fowler Park and Recreation Facilities
Name Location Hours of Operation Purpose / Amenities
City Parks
500 E. Merced Street Fowler, CA
Panzak Park 24 hours Community Plaza
93625
Donny Wright Park 630 W. Fresno Fowler, CA 93625 24 hours Community Park
Near corner of Merced & 9th
Margaret Cowings Park 24 hours Community Park
Street Fowler, CA. 93625
Fowler Veteran’s Corner of E. Merced St. & Adams
24 hours Neighborhood Park
Monument Fowler, CA 93625
729 E. Bonita Court Fowler, CA
Shirakawa Park 24 hours Neighborhood Park
93625
K. Hovnanian 2 1337 West Randy Avenue, Fowler,
24 hours Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park CA 93625
Somerset Crossing
699 S Argyle Ave, Fowler, CA 93625 24 hours Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park
Abbey Park 250 North Vista Avenue, Fowler, CA
24 hours Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park 93625
Edwin Blayney Senior 108 N 3rd St, Fowler, CA 93625-
Senior Center
Center 2355
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 54 City of Fowler
Figure 6-2. Fowler Park Facilities
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MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 55 City of Fowler
Demand for Service
Four major factors influencing service demand for the City’s parks and recreation facilities and services
are population growth, range of recreational activities offered by the Department, constituent outreach,
and price. The wider the range of recreational opportunities, the greater the chance that a resident will
find a preferred option, therefore potentially more people would be using services offered by the City.
Similarly, the more constituents are aware of the recreational opportunities, the more likely a greater
number of people will be making use of the available facilities. In addition, the City of Fowler provides
recreational programs for both its adult and youth groups.
The Department does not track resident versus non-resident participation. The City’s does not have an
estimate of neighborhood park visitors that are residents from immediate surrounding areas. The
programs and facilities that might attract out-of-town residents include the yearly Fowler Fall Festival,
4th of July fireworks show, Christmas Tree lighting, and weekly “Wednesday Nights at the Park.”
Department Staffing
The Recreation Department is responsible for recreational events throughout the year. The City of Fowler
has one full-time equivalent (FTE) employee assigned to the City’s recreation department and two part-
time employees. The full-time position belongs to the Recreation & Senior Center Supervisor who
oversees the Recreation Department and the Senior Center, along with all events related to the
Department.
Service Adequacy
This section reviews indicators of service adequacy attributed to the City’s park and recreation services,
specifically developed parkland per 1,000 residents. The City’s General Plan, and its Park & Recreation
Master Plan established a desired parkland standard to provide 3 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.
Based on the City’s recent population estimate of 7,667 residents and the park goals set forth by the
General Plan, the City is working successfully toward meeting the park area goals. Currently, the City has
8 designated city parks that total approximately 16 acres.
The City of Fowler owns 16 acres of all categories of parkland. Based on the General Plan, park space
standard of three acres per 1,000 residents, the current inventory of parkland equates to 2.1 acres per
1,000 residents, with an overall deficit of approximately 6.9 acres. Full buildout of the Fowler 2040
General Plan would add approximately 41,526 additional residents, resulting in a total population of
49,193. At that level, the City will require an additional 131.6 acres of parkland to maintain the General
Plan goal. However, historical growth trends of Fowler would predict a population growth of between
two and three percent. A constant three percent growth rate through 2040 would result in a population
of 11,945 people, which would result in the need for an additional 19.8 acres of parkland with a total
parkland acreage of 35.8 acres.
In FY 2025-26, the Department spent approximately $108,000 on maintenance and operating
expenditures.44 These funds were primarily allocated to support all City-sponsored events, including
“Wednesday Nights at the Park,” the Fowler 4th of July show, installation of seasonal banners along
44 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 56 City of Fowler
Merced Street, and the purchase of a brand-new Christmas tree.
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Special Report indicates that among the agencies
throughout the country that operated public park facilities and responded to the NRPA survey in 2025,
the median operating expenditures per acre of parks and non-park sites was $11,061 per acre. Fowler’s
median operating expenditure per acre of parks and non-park sites was $3,725 per acre.45 Non-park
sites include public lawn areas, public open space areas, and non-park designated landscapes.46 The
typical park and recreation agency serving a jurisdiction with fewer than 20,000 people spend a median
of $9,512 per acre of park and non-park sites. The median decreases to $8,979 per acre for agencies
serving jurisdictions with populations between 20,000 and 49,999. The typical operating expenditure
per acre of park land rises with population density.
According to the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) 2025 Special Report, agencies
nationwide that operate public park facilities reported a median operating expenditure of $11,061 per
acre for parks and non-park sites. Nonpark sites include public lawns, open space areas, and other
landscaped areas not formally designated- as parks.
For agencies serving jurisdictions with fewer than 20,000 residents, the median operating cost is $9,512
per acre. For those serving populations between 20,000 and 49,999, the median decreases slightly to
$8,979 per acre. Overall, the typical operating expenditures per acre of park land tends to increase as
population density rises.
It should be noted that the cost of operation of parkland is greatly dependent on the type of facilities
made available at a park. For example, a facility with restrooms, recreation centers, and recreation
programs may be more costly to maintain and operate than a park that only requires occasional
landscaping.
The Department has generally adequate capacity to provide services to its residents. Limited financing
is the most significant capacity constraint for the Department. Capital improvements have been
deferred in recent budget years leading to aged infrastructure that is frequently more costly to maintain
the older it becomes.
Infrastructure Needs
The Department’s Capital Improvement Program (“CIP”) has a budget of approximately $132,401. Projects
funded by the Parks and Recreation Facilities are listed below:
• Prop 68 New Harris Park - $79,401
• Prop 68 Donny Wright Park Improvements - $53,000
Another current challenge is to identify funding to construct and sustainably maintain new park space.
The City of Fowler CIP has estimated costs for the next three to five years for future developments for the
Public Works Department. These capital improvement projects planned to be funded by Park Impact
Fees are included in Figure 6-3:
45 City of Fowler 2025-26 Adopted Budget divided by park space acreage
46 2019 NRPA Agency Performance Review, Park and Recreation Agency Performance Review. Website:
https://www.nrpa.org/globalassets/research/research-reports/2025-agency-performance-review-report.pdf
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 57 City of Fowler
Figure 6-3. City of Fowler Parks and Recreation Department Capital Outlay Expenditures
Project Description 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 2027-28 2028-29
8-acre Site $2,000,000
Panzak Park Amenities Rehabilitation $250,000
Panzak Park Band Shell $500,000
Kensington Estates Neighborhood Park $750,000
Ahronian Neighborhood Park $750,000
Fowler ranch Well Trail & Cul-de-Sac Connection $150,000
Source: The City of Fowler Capital Improvement Plan
Agreements for Recreational Space and Programs
The City has a shared-use agreement in place for the use of Fowler Unified School District facilities.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 58 City of Fowler
7. Law Enforcement Services
The Fowler Police Department (“Fowler PD” or “Department”) is responsible for law enforcement within
the City of Fowler. The Department currently operates out of headquarters at 128 S 5th Street Fowler, CA
93625. This location serves as the main base for their law enforcement activities, including patrolling,
investigations, and administrative functions. This section of the Municipal Service Review discusses law
enforcement services and public safety in the City of Fowler.
Mission Statement
The Fowler Police Department's mission statement is to serve and protect our community with honesty,
integrity, and compassion.
General Plan Goals and Vision
The Fowler General Plan presents the following law enforcement goals and policies:
Goal PF-1: Fowler provides reliable public facilities, utilities, and community services that meet the needs
of the existing community and planned growth.
Goal PF-2: Fowler maintains and manages the orderly and efficient expansion of public facilities, utilities,
and community services.
Provision of Public Facilities
Policy PF-1: Require private and public land developments to provide all on-site and off-site facility
improvements or pay in-lieu fees necessary to mitigate any development-generated public facility impacts.
• Action Item PF-1a: Require the developer to be responsible for the improvement and/or provision
of adequate public facilities and services to maintain existing service levels for existing residents
and businesses. This may include the installation of additional public facilities, water, or road
infrastructure, or the provision of fees for emergency, public safety, and City services.
Policy PF-2: Consider providing public cost sharing of public services under certain circumstances to
encourage desirable and innovative development within the City.
Policy PF-3: Ensure that land divisions and developments are approved only when a project's
improvements, dedications, and fees fully cover incremental costs to the City and other agencies. Such
improvements and infrastructure include parks, major streets, traffic signals, streetlights, drainage
systems, sewer, water, fire, police, schools, and other related facilities.
Policy PF-4: Regularly evaluate and update, as necessary, development impact fees and other applicable
City fees.
Policy PF-5: Require dedication of necessary rights-of-way as part of the land division and land use review
processes.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 59 City of Fowler
Policy PF-6: Prepare and maintain resources and mechanisms to adequately plan for, develop, and
maintain public facilities.
• Action Item PF-6a: Prepare, adopt, and periodically update a Capital Improvement Program
(“CIP”) which outlines and prioritizes necessary updates and additions to public facilities for a
minimum 5-year period. Review and update the CIP on an annual basis.
Policy PF-7: Use special districts as appropriate to provide broad neighborhood improvements such as
drainage, open space, and other public works projects.
City Facilities and Public Safety
Policy PF-8: Provide City departments with adequate office and building space for employee workspace
and equipment storage.
• Action Item PF-8a: Develop a City Hall Site Master Plan to ensure continued supply of adequate
office and building space for employee workspace and equipment storage.
• Action Item PF-8b: Prepare a Fire Station Master Plan to ensure adequate facilities to support Fire
Department staffing and equipment.
• Action Item PF-8c: Prepare a Public Works / Corporation Yard Master Plan.
• Action Item PF-8d: Prepare a facilities report that tracks all City-owned facilities and update
annually.
Policy PF-9: Consult the Police Department during the review of development proposals to ensure projects
integrate design strategies intended to prevent crime to the extent feasible and to address impacts on
police protection services.
Policy PF-10: Form proactive community partnerships that develop responsible ownership for public
safety in Fowler, inform the public in how they can improve their personal safety, use a preventative
approach that is issue-oriented, support innovative approaches to problem-solving, establish mutual trust
and communication among Police Services staff and the community, and provide positive role models and
values through activities in the neighborhoods and community as a whole.
• Action Item PF-10a: Continue to implement existing community programs and consider new
programs that encourage opportunities for the police force to connect with the community.
Policy PF-11: In cooperation with the Fresno County Fire Protection District, provide firefighting
equipment, facilities, and staffing sufficient to ensure adequate response and fire flow at all times.
Policy PF-12: Ensure adequate water supplies are available for fire suppression throughout the City and
require development to construct all necessary fire suppression infrastructure and equipment.
Policy PF-13: Maintain mutual aid agreements with other fire and emergency service departments in
Fresno County to ensure adequate service throughout the City of Fowler and its planning area.
Policy PF-14: Maintain staffing levels of City emergency service departments, including fire and police.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 60 City of Fowler
• Action Item PF-14a: Prepare a staffing plan for the Police Department to establish target staffing
levels and update the plan periodically. The following staffing targets shall be used until the staffing
plan is prepared and adopted:
Target an average staffing level of 1.5 police officers per 1,000 persons when the City
o
population is less than 10,000.
Target an average staffing level of 1.25 police officers per 1,000 persons once the City
o
reaches a population of 10,000 or more.
• Action Item PF-14b: Explore options to staff full-time or part-time fire fighters and support staff.
Policy PF-15: Incorporate new technologies and analytical tools into policing strategies to ensure efficiency
of labor force.
• Action Item PF-15a: Require security camera systems to be installed in commercial and industrial
areas with interoperability into City policing systems.
Community Resiliency and Safety
Goal SAF-2: Emergency management efforts are coordinated and planned.
Policy SAF-2: Continue to implement the Fresno County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan to address disasters
such as earthquakes, drought, flooding, hazardous material spills, water contamination, epidemics, fires,
extreme weather, major transportation accidents, and terrorism.
• Action Item SAF-2a: Review and revise, as necessary, the Municipal Code to ensure effective
organization, responsiveness, and continuity of government during declared emergencies.
• Action Item SAF-2b: Procure generators, or another suitable alternative, for back-up power at City
Hall, the Police Department, the Fire Department, and all domestic water distribution
infrastructure.
• Action Item SAF-2c: The City, in conjunction with other local, State, and Federal agencies, shall
ensure operational readiness of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), conduct annual training
for staff, and maintain, test, and update equipment to meet current standards.47
Fowler Police Department
The Fowler Police Department is committed to enhancing the quality of life for residents by ensuring safety
and security through the delivery of quality services. They are responsive to the concerns of the
community. The Department prioritizes a community-centered policing approach by adopting innovative
strategies that foster engagement and addresses the needs of all community members. This is achieved
through proactive enforcement, high visibility, and prompt responses to service calls.
The Fowler PD implements local and state laws, maintains public order, investigates complaints, manages
traffic regulations, conducts crime investigations, apprehends criminal offenders, provides maintenance
of ongoing crime prevention programs, and participates in joint crime prevention efforts with local law
enforcement agencies.
47 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan – goals, policies, and action items are from previous General Plan, City policy documents, or the
Environmental Impact Report (EIR), page 8.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 61 City of Fowler
To improve efficiency and support crime reduction efforts, the department actively integrates current and
emerging technologies into its operations and long-term planning.
The Fowler PD employs 13 full-time sworn officers, including one chief, two sergeants, two corporals, and
eight police officers. Additionally, the Department employs one community service officer and one crime
analyst. The Department is currently led by the Police Chief, Greg Gularte, who is responsible for
overseeing all operations and ensuring that the department's mission is carried out effectively. Under the
Police Chief, there are two sergeants and two corporals which make up the leadership team of the
department. The Department provides a full range of law enforcement functions including:
• Patrol Services: Officers with the Fowler Police Department are responsible for patrolling the
community to deter and respond to criminal activities. Officers enforce laws, conduct traffic stops,
respond to emergencies, and provide a visible presence to ensure public safety.
• Investigations Services: This includes handling all facets of criminal investigations, including
gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to solve cases. Detectives in this division
focus on more complex and serious offenses, such as homicides, sexual assaults, and fraud.
• Administration Services: The Chief of Police and supervisors effectively manage the
administrative functions of the department including record-keeping, budgeting, personnel
management, and ensuring compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
Administration services also provide various support functions, such as training, equipment
maintenance, community outreach and involves specialized tasks such as crime prevention
programs and public education initiatives.
The Department has mutual aid agreements with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Department, California
Highway Patrol, and nearby cities. The County Sheriff’s Department is contracted for more complex
services, including Crime Scene Investigation, SWAT, bomb disposal, as well as dispatch services. The
Sheriff’s Department has a substation located in the City of San Joaquin. Prisoners that are booked in
Fowler are transported immediately to the County jail.
The Fowler PD also responds occasionally to calls outside of city limits, though this is rare – fewer than
twenty times per year. The Police department dedicates one police officer to the School Resource Officer
Program (“SRO”) while school is in session. This program’s funding is shared with Fowler Unified School
District and the City of Fowler.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 62 City of Fowler
Figure 7-1. Fowler Police Department Structure
2027 STAFFING PROJECTIONS
FOWLER POLICE DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION CHART
Budget
The Fowler Police Department expenditures for FY 2024-25 are $2,250,529, or 32 percent of the Fowler
General Fund. This budget focuses on improving our recruitment and retention of sworn officers by
adjusting base pay so that wages and benefits for our sworn officers are more in line with smaller law
enforcement agencies in the Central Valley. In addition, the Department is requesting additional revenues
to finish the two-year patrol rifle conversion and to purchase two drones over a three-year period. These
drones will assist officers on high risk calls for service as well as assist the City's Building Official with
inspections of roofs and taller structures in Fowler.
Services and operations continuing from the prior fiscal year include Service Officer program, School
Resource Officer (cost shared with Fowler Unified School District), support for important community
events-such as national night out, trunk-or-treat, and Wednesday nights at Panzak Park.
District Sales Tax (Measure N) focuses on improving public safety equipment to serve the residents of
Fowler. This includes the purchase of additional patrol rifles to finalize the two-year rifle conversion of this
equipment, and to purchase two drones over a three-year period. The budget also funds a portion of the
Fresno County Fire Protection District contract.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 63 City of Fowler
Figure 7-2. Fresno County Fire Protection District Response Times
Call Type Queue Time Response Time
Priority 1 1.43 minutes 2.16 minutes
Priority 2 3 minutes 5.63 minutes
Priority 3 5 minutes 2.66 minutes
Clearance Rates
Cleared crimes refer to offenses for which at least one person was arrested, charged with the offense,
and turned over to the district attorney for prosecution. A crime can also be considered cleared by
exceptional means if the offender dies, the victim refuses to cooperate, or extradition is denied. There
are no official or adopted standards or guidelines on the proportion of crimes that should be cleared.
Clearance rates allow police departments to determine the number of cases that are being cleared. In
order to better serve the community’s needs, police departments must be aware of specific metrics in
order to deploy resources accordingly. As a police department, the accepted measure of police
performance has become standard and includes reported crime rates, overall arrests, clearance rates,
and response times. However, caution should be used in using these methods to identify police
performance as it varies by population density and cultural factors.
• Clearance rates help fulfill one of the core missions of the police, apprehending offenders,
but can also contribute to another core mission: crime prevention.
• The reluctancy of a District Attorney to file cases may impact the clearance rate. Most
cases result in an arrest based on probable cause but might not be filed if, in the opinion
of the District Attorney, there is little chance of conviction due to circumstances.
The FPD had a Department of Justice (“DOJ”) clearance rate of 93.8 percent for violent crimes (homicide,
forcible rape, robbery and aggravated assault) committed in 2024, a clearance rate of 14.2 percent for
burglary crimes, and 8 percent for motor vehicle theft during the same period. Aggregating those
clearance rates, the Fowler Police Department in 2024 solved 62.5 percent of violent and property
crimes in 2024.
Demand for Service
The City experienced no increase in violent crimes reported when comparing 2023 and 2024 statistical
years. For reported property crimes in the City of Fowler in 2024, there was an 8.2% decrease when
comparing 2024 reported crimes to those reported in 2023. Though there has not been an increase or
decrease in crime in any specific area of Fowler since crime is not centralized to a specific neighborhood
or location.
For 2024, as compared to 2023, overall crime rates decreased by 7.5% equating to a decrease of .82 per
1,000 population less crimes per year. The total crime rate (violent crime and property crime) in the City
of Fowler for 2023 was 18.07 crimes per 1,000 population. The total crimes per 1,000 population for the
City of Fowler for 2024 was reduced to 17.25.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 64 City of Fowler
In 2024, there were 139 collisions in Fowler. For comparison purposes, in 2023 there were 151 total
collisions in the city representing an 8 percent decrease in total collisions over that one-year period.
Similarly, injury collisions were reduced from 22 in 2023 to 20 injury collisions for 2024, representing a
9.1 percent reduction over that one-year span.
Overall, during 2024 FPD informed LAFCo that it received 3418 calls (1418 emergency “911” calls and
2000 non-emergency calls) to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Department dispatch center. In 2024, the FPD
reviewed and prepared 164 police reports.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 65 City of Fowler
8. Fire Protection Services
The City of Fowler is currently under a cooperative fire protection agreement with the Fresno County
Fire Protection District (“FCFPD”) to provide fire protection and emergency response services. The full
service agreement was established in July 2022 to ensure that Fowler was included under the district’s
broader regional resources, including trained personnel, equipment, and dispatch coordination to
provide fire protection, emergency medical, and rescue services within the designated “City Service
Area” of Fowler.48 This ensures that the City of Fowler receives timely and effective emergency
response, leveraging the regional resources and dispatch capabilities of FCFPD and the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (“CAL FIRE”). The agreement also designates the FCFPD Fire
Chief as the lead authority for coordinating these services within the city limits.49
Service Adequacy and Response
The FCFPD provides comprehensive fire suppression, prevention, and emergency medical services.
While the current arrangement meets the city’s needs, the desire for an increased level of service
reflects Fowler’s commitment to enhancing response times and tailoring services to its growing
population.
Infrastructure and Staffing
The City of Fowler currently receives fire protection and emergency response services through a contract
with FCFPD. This partnership provides the community with professional, reliable service while maintaining
fiscal responsibility. By utilizing the County’s established infrastructure, resources, and personnel, the City
is able to deliver high-quality fire protection in a cost-effective manner.
Fiscal Considerations
Contracting with Fresno County Fire Protection District allows Fowler to benefit from the economies of
scale achieved by a regional fire service provider. The County’s ability to share staffing, equipment, and
administrative resources across multiple jurisdictions significantly reduces overhead and operational costs
for the City. This approach ensures that Fowler receives comprehensive fire protection services without
bearing the full expense of operating a standalone municipal department.
Through this arrangement, the City gains access to advanced training programs, specialized response
equipment, and proven emergency management systems—all at a fraction of the cost required to develop
and maintain these capabilities independently. While continuing to work with FCFPD, the City of Fowler
remains committed to evaluating long-term service models, including staffing at the local fire station.
These efforts aim to balance service quality, fiscal sustainability, and community needs. The current
contract model serves as an effective bridge, providing essential fire protection coverage while supporting
the City’s broader planning and development goals.
48 Fresno County Fire Protection District, About Us. Website: https://www.fresnocountyfire.org/about-us
49 City of Fowler and Fresno County Fire Protection District Transition Agreement. Website: https://www.fresnocountyfire.org/2024-07-17-
board-meeting
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 66 City of Fowler
The City’s Community Development Department collaborates with FCFPD on fire prevention planning,
including fire and life safety inspections and plan reviews. This coordination supports public safety and
ensures that new developments meet fire code standards.
Fowler General Plan: Safety Element
The General Plan’s Safety Element sets forth a comprehensive vision, goals, and policies that provides
the department with a clear understanding of its purpose. The General Plan’s core safety goals as its
mission to carry out the day-to-day function of the department.
Fire Hazards
The Fowler General Plan addresses the CAL FIRE state law requirement to map the significant fire hazard
areas. The City of Fowler is classified as a Local Responsibility Area (“LRA”), meaning the City is not located
within a high-risk area for fire hazards but is considered to have moderate risk. As an LRA, Fowler holds
financial responsibility of preventing and suppressing wildfires is primarily the responsibility of a local
agency (city, county, city and county, or district).50
The three safety policies of the Fowler General Plan are as follows:51
Policy SAF-29: Promote education programs related to fire safety, fire prevention, and emergency
preparedness.
Policy SAF-30: Consult the Fire Department during the review of development proposals to
ensure projects adequately address safe and comply with applicable fire and building codes.
Policy SAF-31: Require property owners to remove excessive and/or overgrown vegetation to
prevent and minimize fire risks to surrounding property.
Automatic and Mutual Aid Agreement(s)
The intent of the Automatic and mutual aid agreement(s) is to provide/receive additional emergency
resources from neighboring agencies to mitigate emergencies. These automatic and mutual aid
agreements enable the fire agencies to continually meet industry standards and best practices
established by the National Fire Protection Association.
50 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Website: https://osfm.fire.ca.gov/what-we-do/community-wildfire-preparedness-and-
mitigation/fire-hazard-severity-zones?itid=lk_inline_enhanced-template
51 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, page 84.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 67 City of Fowler
Figure 8-1. Fire Stations and Service Area
M ,_
f.resho County Fire Protection District
1,1~..,.
_... -··" \ __®
- - - /,
'
l '
L
Calitorr,oa
·v
('\
'
. ~l
01ui fN!;~Hon1
f'nfWrn Cl:arly P'.Q i'ra!NCU:111 Datrii:I:
[tJt. W-~ 119,~. rrru.n, f~Jrrt nqr ~••F. i:-1111n,,. o:.tJIINI P.11to:.. ['J'I. tr c;.,,mr.. -..,1-<""'T'll
rm i,.·r.ntt.1.,i,,s;, i,:-_,,s OJrr.,, ~ urvt i,.i,-~tnl'"·t t'"4-. ~$
C,,,,o: )Jn ), ion
Source: Fresno County Fire Protection District
Fire Department Structure
Fire protection services are regulated by federal and state regulations. The International Fire Code
(“IFC”) is a model code regulating minimum fire-safety requirements for new and existing buildings,
facilities, storage, and processes. The model code includes specialized, technical, fire- and life-safety
regulations, as well as establishing standards for fire hydrants, automatic sprinkler systems, fire alarm
systems, fire and explosion hazards safety, use and storage of hazardous materials, protection of
emergency responders, industrial processes, and many other general and specialized fire-safety
requirements.
At state level, the 2022 California Fire Code is a fully integrated code based on the 2021 IFC and regulates
fire protection and safety standards associated with all building and construction standards. The
California Fire Code is found in Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, Part 9 with a July 2024
supplement.
Furthermore, the Fowler General Plan identifies land use categories, development standards, and other
general provisions that ensure all new development is achieved consistently with the City’s fire
restrictions. Locally, fire regulations are found in the Fowler Municipal Code – Title 4: Public Safety and
Title 8: Building Regulations – that address building access, signage, and exiting requirements for all
commercial and residential structures within the City.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 68 City of Fowler
Fowler’s Fire Personnel and Services
The City’s adopted budget for FY 2025-26 addresses the current level of service provided by Fresno
County Fire Protection District. This grants Fowler a reliable safety framework and enhances mitigation
of fire risks. The District not only effectively delivers fire prevention and emergency response but also
oversees building permits and various inspections. Located within the heart of the San Joaquin Valley,
the District service area spans roughly 4,200 square miles and serves over 220,000 citizens.52
The District is governed by a seven-member Board of Directors, appointed by the Fresno County Board
of Supervisors. Staff is provided through a cooperative agreement with CAL FIRE and is managed by the
District Fire Chief. Under the collaboration of the Board of Directors, the Fire Chief’s purpose is to
provide Fire Protection Services as necessary to both the District and the City. The Fire Chief must
communicate with the City of Fowler Representative for Fire Protection Services to maintain periodic
updates and enforce department policy and procedures.
The Fresno County Fire Protection District is structured with three divisions working under the
supervision of the Fire Chief: Administration, Operations, Special Operations. For additional information
regarding the Fresno County Fire Protection District, please visit their website at
www.fresnocountyfire.org.
Fowler’s Fire Facilities and Capacity
The City of Fowler’s fire station is currently under construction. Once completed, the facility will be
equipped to operate as a fully staffed, full-time fire station, contingent upon budget availability and
Council approval. This investment represents a significant step toward strengthening the City’s public
safety infrastructure and improving response times for residents and businesses.
According to the District, a typical response time averages just over nine minutes once notified of the
event to arrival at the scene of the incident. Although there is no stated policy on standard emergency
response times, the department strives to maintain a total reflex time goal of less than 10 minutes to
process the emergency call, dispatch resources, and then travel to and arrive at emergencies within the
City.
Service Adequacy
The FCFPD has a class rating of “Class 3/3Y” through the Insurance Services Office (“ISO”). The
classification places the District in the top 10 percent of communities nationwide with a PPC of Class 3
or better. With a community’s Class 3 rating, many insurance providers give a discount on annual
insurance premiums for residences and businesses. The ISO is an agency that evaluates fire protection
features for all fire departments to establish rates for underwriters, such as property insurance
providers. ISO uses a rating system that is based on a scale of 1 through 10, with 1 being the best fire
protection rating and 10 being the worst. The ISO rating “Class 3” is based on ISO Public Protection
Classification Program’s assessment and scoring in four primary areas: 1) Emergency Communications,
2) Water Supply, 3) Community Risk Reduction, 4) Fire Department.
52 Fresno County Fire Protection District, About Us. Website: https://www.fresnocountyfire.org/about-us
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 69 City of Fowler
In 2024, the Fresno County Fire Protection District received 492 calls for service in Fowler. Of these, 63
were classified as fire events, 344 were medical, including vehicle accidents, and 85 were “other” calls
for service such as electrical or gas hazards.53
The ISO had initially upgraded the City of Fowler’s ISO rating from Class 4 to Class 3. However, the
Insurance Services Office has since determined the rating is no longer applicable due to the network of
fire resources being located more than five miles from the City of Fowler. 54
Funding Resources
The City of Fowler’s funding comes from a variety of sources, such as the General Fund, Special Revenue
Fund, and the Enterprise Fund. Funding for the Fire Department is generally accounted for by the Special
Revenue Fund. The City’s Special Revenue Fund represents 55 percent of citywide revenue and consists
of revenue from Utility Users Tax (“UUT”), District Sales Tax, Measure C, SB1, Impact Fees, and various
grant funds.55
Development impact fees are paid by new residential, commercial, and industrial development projects.
The development impact fees may be used by the City to purchase land and fund the construction of
new public facilities, such as a newly remodeled fire station.
Fowler has continuously reached out for funding to account for developer fees to provide the
purchasing of vehicles and equipment to its fire station. Fowler has budgeted costs that include a new
fire station, completed in 2021 and is currently in its second-floor buildout improvements. Fire Fund
790 in Fowler’s 2025-26 Adopted Budget refers to the funding specifically for the new fire stations. As
of July 1st, 2025, this fund has a balance of $40,518. Similarly, Fire Fund 730 applies to developer fees
for the purchasing of new vehicles and equipment. Figure 8-2 illustrates the data of Fire Fund 730
throughout the years; the highlight for this budget includes the costs for the fire station buildout.
Figure 8-2. AB 1600 Fire Fund 730
AB 1600- Fire FY 21-22 FY 22-23 FY 23-24 FY 24-25 FY 24-25 FY 25-26
730 Actual Actual Actual Adopted Projected Adopted
Total Revenues
$150,840 $226,107 $111,099 $82,700 $129,585 $80,500
Total
$18,175 $229,625 $74,794 $505,000 $321,398 $500,000
Expenditures
Net Increase/
Decrease in $132,665 $-3,518 $36,305 $-422,300 $-191,813 $-419,500
Fund Balance
Source: City of Fowler Adopted Budget FY 2025-26
53 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 31.
54 Website: https://www.fowlercity.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif9891/files/media/fire-department/file/4556/Fowler-ISO-Rating-FCFPD.pdf
55 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 2.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 70 City of Fowler
Utility Users Tax
The Utility Users Tax Fund is designated to fund essential municipal services by separately accounting for
local revenues. Not only does the UUT fund a portion of Fowler’s contract with FCFPD, but it also
includes a Fire Station principal and interest debt service and the fire station buildout. Figure 8-3
demonstrates the capital expenditure of the Fire 2030 data. The last fire transfer payment into the
Fowler’s General Fund was FY 2021-2022 for $33,749.
Figure 8-3. Utility Users Tax Fire Expenditures
Utility Users Tax – 200 FY 25-26 Adopted
Improvements - Fire Station Buildout 1,377,057
Equipment $-
Fire Station Principal Payment $23,000
Fire Station Interest Payment $29,000
Fire Transfer to General Fund $-
Source: City of Fowler Adopted Budget FY 2025-26
For FY 2025-26, the Fire Department’s budget amounts to $340,813.56 The Fire Department’s primary
source of revenue is the Special Revenues Fund, impact fees, and grants. For FY 2025-26, the Fire
Department’s revenue streams total approximately $80,500. The revenue balance is augmented by the
development impact of fees and interest income.
For FY 2025-26, a major portion of the Fire Department’s expenditures are allocated toward the fire
station buildout. The Fire Department’s budget shows a total expenditure amount of $500,000.
Infrastructure and Personnel Needs
The City of Fowler currently has a Capital Improvement Program in place. Its focus is to enhance
sustainable economic development by upgrading infrastructure throughout the city, including roads,
parks, critical infrastructure, and facility upgrades.
56 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 18.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 71 City of Fowler
9. Solid Waste Services
On November 7th, 2023, the City of Fowler renewed a franchise agreement with USA Waste of California,
Inc. (“WM” or “Contractor” or “Franchisee”) for 10 years, ending on December 31st, 2033. The
administration and oversight of this Franchise Agreement shall be under the supervision of the Fowler
City Manager’s office.
WM provides the City of Fowler with exclusive solid waste, recycling, and organic waste collection
services, as well as management of billing and customer service. WM provides curbside residential solid
waste, recycling, and green waste disposal services within the City limits. WM also provides Commercial
Bundled Collection Services for commercial accounts, including Container Solid Waste, Recyclable
Material, and Organic Waste collection service to Commercial Customers. Using Roll-Offs, the Contractor
may provide Solid Waste, Recyclable Material, Organic Waste, and/or Construction & Demolition (C&D)
collection services to Industrial Customers serviced upon request or as scheduled with the Customer.
WM collects and removes all Solid Waste that is placed in Containers at least once every week or more
frequently if required to handle the waste stream of Industrial Accounts.
General Plan Consistency
The City of Fowler 2040 General Plan57 outlines specific goals and policies related to Solid Waste
Services. Those include, but are not limited to the following:
• Goal SAF-1: The community is resilient to the effects of a changing climate.
• Goal PF-1: Fowler provides reliable public facilities, utilities, and community services that meet
the needs of the existing community and planned growth.
Solid Waste
Policy PF-25: Facilitate activities that reduce waste production and/or encourage recycling or reuse of
waste when possible, to reduce the amount of solid waste sent to landfill in order to meet State targets.
Policy PF-26: Ensure solid waste pick-up and disposal facilities are sufficient to meet new development
needs.
Annual Clean-ups
WM and the City Manager coordinate various annual community clean-up events which collect waste
ranging from e-waste and old mattresses, to tires and other debris. According to the renewed Franchise
Agreement, each year during the term of the Agreement, Contractor shall provide two (2) community
clean-up events for residents of the City at a time and place as the Parties may reasonably agree. Each
event shall be for a period of four (4) hours, and Contractor shall provide Roll-Offs and service such roll-
offs at no cost to the City. City shall provide staff and/or volunteers to manage entry and exit of residents
from the events. Residents may bring a single load of up to two (2) cubic yards total of Solid Waste or
E-Waste per event using their personal vehicle, and Contractor shall not charge a fee to any resident for
such waste disposals.
57 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, pages 78, 88, 92. Website: https://www.fowlercity.org/media/151
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 72 City of Fowler
Location and Customer Service
WM’s transfer and processing facility is located at 4333 E. Jefferson Avenue, Fresno, CA 95370, and is
open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Customer service is available via local phone number, with
office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday-Friday, and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
The franchisee is responsible for providing prompt, reliable service to residents at all times.
Solid Waste Operations
Standard residential service in Fowler consists of three 96-gallon carts: one for solid waste, one for
recyclables, and one for organic waste (including green waste), all collected weekly on the same day.
Additional carts are available upon request at the applicable rate. WM also offers temporary bin and
roll-off services for larger disposal needs. Residential collection begins no earlier than 6:00 a.m. on the
scheduled collection day, and all carts must be placed at the curb for pickup.
Waste generated by Fowler is sent to the Kettleman Hills Waste Management Facility, located
approximately 52 miles southwest of Fowler. Solid waste is first sent to a Waste Management transfer
facility to separate recyclable from the rest of the waste produced. As of 2019, the facility has a total
capacity of 15,600,000 cubic yards with a remaining capacity of 3,580,000 cubic yards, or 22.9 percent.
In 2019 Fowler generated 7,518.94 tons of solid waste, or 8,354.38 cubic yards. According to the
Environmental Impact Review for the Fowler 2040 General Plan, WM collected approximately 7,518.94 tons
of solid waste in 2019. This generation accounts for approximately 0.23 percent of the remaining capacity
of the facility.58
In 2019, the population of Fowler was 6,605. On average, each resident of Fowler generated
approximately 1.26 cubic yards of solid waste. At full buildout of the Fowler 2040 General Plan the City
would contribute approximately 60,879 cubic yards of solid waste, or 12.70 percent of the facilities
remaining capacity in 2019. Fowler’s current contribution to the closure of the facility is not substantial,
however, as buildout occurs and population increases, the impact the City has on the capacity of the
facility would increase. In the event of the closure of the facility within the life of the Fowler 2040 GP,
Waste Management would provide an alternative site to collect waste generated from Fowler. The City
of Fowler would be required to comply with all applicable solid waste reduction goals. In addition, policy
PF-26 listed below would aid to reduce any potential impacts. Therefore, impacts would be less than
significant.59
Service Adequacy
The City does not operate a landfill. Instead, WM is required to discard all collected materials at an approved
facility that complies with all state regulations. The franchisee also promotes local recycling programs and, with
the assistance of the City, implements local measures to increase diversion rate which is the amount of
waste that is recycled or composted as opposed to ending up in a landfill with other non-recyclables.
Landfills are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency, the California Department of Resources,
Recycling, and Recovery (“CalRecycle”) and a designated local enforcement agency; in County of Fresno
58 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan DEIR, page 334. Website: https://files.ceqanet.lci.ca.gov/273959-
3/attachment/fsq3JL6bnbfFzOrFcOX7QNpw507RygRukQwZa8Xi9pem-Sttnd-P15YeZYdiCZlJ4GPX_A6jK7PFSJOx0
59 Ibid.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 73 City of Fowler
the County’s Department of Public Health, and the Environmental Health Division. Furthermore,
Assembly Bill (AB) 939, California’s Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, is a state mandate that
requires local agencies to participate in the creation of the County of Fresno Integrated Waste
Management Plan. This plan provides an overview of the waste management infrastructure for Fresno
County and the 15 cities within the County. It describes the County infrastructure and plan
administration, the most recent countywide solid waste management practices, summarizes the Source
Reduction and Recycling Elements, Household Hazardous Waste Elements, and Non-disposal Facility
Elements for the County, and provides financing information.
According to the Franchise Agreement, WM complies with State solid waste mandates: AB 1826
Recycling of Commercial Organic Waste; AB 341 Mandatory Commercial Business and Public Entities
Recycling Plan, as well as various County and State quarterly and yearly reports to Cal Recycle Electronic
Annual Report, Recycling Program Report, and Household Hazardous Waste Report.60
The City complies with the County of Fresno Integrated Waste Management Plan, which has been
approved and filed with CalRecycle. During year 2024, the Kettleman Hills Waste Management Facility
was inspected twelve times from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024, there have been no violations
or areas of concern reported to CalRecycle.
Solid Waste Franchise Financing
This Franchise Agreement includes a monthly franchise fee consisting of ten percent (10%) of Gross
Revenue collected by WM from Accounts and Customers. This is the same franchise fee as the previous
franchise agreement.61 In the adopted Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget, this amount is forecasted at
$178,000 per year. The solid waste franchise agreement operation is funded primarily through user
fees, and service charges for specific services if requested.
At this time, the City of Fowler does not have an established program to support its Solid Waste franchise
financing operations, including an adopted Solid Waste Capital Fund.
Joint Power Authority
The City is a member agency to the nine member Southeast Regional Solid Waste Commission
(“SERSWC”), a Joint Power Agency formed in 1971, consisting of the following member agencies: County
of Fresno, Fowler, Kingsburg, Orange Cove, Parlier, Reedley, Sanger, and Selma. The JPA was formed to
manage and fund the operation of the Southeast Regional Disposal Site (“SERDs”). SERDs is located
at Academy Avenue and Dinuba Avenue, and the landfill received nonhazardous solid waste originating
from each member city. In 1990, SERDs ceased to accept solid waste, and the site is currently in post-
closure maintenance service.
County of Fresno Resources Division is responsible for managing all post- closure maintenance services.
Each member city contributes an annual fee, based on a percentage formula to fund the monitoring and
reporting responsibilities of SERSWC. In 2024-25, Fowler’s SERSWC contribution fee was $18,000 and is
paid by WM on behalf of the City.
60 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, Public Works Department Plan DEIR, page 330.
61 City of Fowler Solid Waste Franchise Agreement, Section 3.1 Revenue to the City, page 10. Website:
https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:5a424f72-613a-4455-ac42-5038bf59005b
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 74 City of Fowler
10. Circulation and Street Maintenance Services
This section reviews Fowler’s adopted policies, its circulation and mobility network, and describes the
City’s circulation and maintenance services. The Fowler Public Works Department’s Street Maintenance
Division performs street maintenance services on approximately 37.5 miles of paved city streets. 62
Fowler’s Street Maintenance Division plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and safety of the city’s
streets. The scope of street maintenance services includes signage, striping, lighting, pothole patching,
sidewalk repairs, weed/trash abatement, tree maintenance, and maintenance of the storm drainage
infrastructure.
General Plan Goals: Circulation, Mobility and Street Maintenance Services
The Fowler’s General Plan, Chapter 9: Mobility, outlines goals and policies designed to support a
connected, efficient, sustainable, and economically vibrant community as growth occurs. The City
prioritizes improvements to roadways, sidewalks and bike lanes to ensure safe and efficient travel for their
residents. Emphasis is placed on encouraging public transit, cycling, and walking to reduce congestion and
environmental impact, while promoting seamless connections within Fowler and to neighboring areas.
These efforts aim to enhance economic development and local quality of life through a complete and
accessible transportation network. Collectively, the following goals in the General Plan set the vision for
Fowler’s complete street system and transportation network, fostering safe and accessible mobility for all
residents as growth occurs.
General Plan Goals: Circulation and Mobility Policies63
Goal MOB-1 Fowler’s streets are a safe and enjoyable environment for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists,
and people of all ages and abilities.
Goal MOB-2 The circulation system is safe, connected, and well-integrated with public transit and
neighboring jurisdictions.
Goal MOB-3 Goods movement throughout the planning area is efficient and safe.
Goal MOB-4 The circulation system is adequately maintained.
Goal MOB-5 Safe, well-designed, multi-modal connections exist across State Route 99, Golden State
Boulevard, and the Union Pacific Railroad.
Circulation
Policy MOB-1 Design and construct a multimodal circulation system as shown on Figure 9-1: Circulation
Diagram.
• Action Item MOB-1a Establish and implement a Roadways Master Plan that addresses the
62 Pavement Management System Implementation, 2025, page 2.
63 City of Fowler 2040 General Plan, pages 63-65.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 75 City of Fowler
following:
Identification of design standards, and exceptions to those standards where deviations
o
are appropriate, for the roadway network. Design standards should include pedestrian,
bicycle, public transit, and vehicular accommodations to ensure the circulation network
is designed for complete streets.
Identification of Transportation System Management (TSM) and Transportation
o
Demand Management (TDM) strategies for improving efficiencies in the circulation
system for all modes of travel.
Integration of a Vision Zero goal of reducing traffic fatalities and sever injuries to zero
o
and adopting strategies to achieve this goal.
Policy MOB-2 Streets are designated and planned according to the functional classifications listed in
Table 9-2.
Policy MOB-3 The right-of-way for arterials and collectors may be reduced to avoid disrupting existing
development if the travel way generally meets the street classification design requirements listed in
Table 9-2.
Policy MOB-4 Support the creation of a transportation network that provides for efficient movement of
people and goods while accounting for environmental effects.
• Action Item MOB-4a Prepare guidelines for the evaluation of vehicle miles traveled. The
guidelines should include significance criteria for evaluating impacts, thresholds of applicability
for discretionary projects, and guidance on analyzing transportation impacts.
• Action Item MOB-4b Identify a range of actions available for developments to mitigate
transportation impacts, specifically targeted at reducing vehicle miles traveled.
A vehicle mile traveled (VMT) is a measure of one vehicle traveling on a roadway for one mile.
VMT is measured by calculating the distance traveled by vehicles within a given region.
Regardless of how many people are traveling in one vehicle, each vehicle traveling on a roadway
generates one VMT for each mile it travels.
Travel Management
Travel management policies provide guidance on how people and automobiles move efficiently within the
circulation network and improve the safety and performance of the roadways by establishing level of
service thresholds, encourage effective transportation management systems, and prioritize operational
improvements over physical improvements.
Policy MOB-5 Encourage a Level of Service (LOS) "C" throughout the local circulation network. LOS
“D” may be allowed during peak hours at intersections of major streets, at State Route 99
interchanges, and along street segments where additional improvements are not feasible. LOS “D” may
also be allowed along streets with the potential for a high level of pedestrian and bicyclist activity. LOS
“E” may be permitted during peak hour use of certain road intersections and segments where
pedestrian and bicycle activity is prioritized.
Areas in Fowler with a high potential for pedestrian and bicyclist activity may include
streets within the downtown area or areas along connecting routes between residential
uses and commercial areas, schools, or parks. These areas may shift over time as new
MMSSRR//SSpphheerere o fo Ifn Ifnlufleunecne cUep Udaptdeate 7766 CCitiyty o off F Foowwlleerr
development occurs and as new businesses and residents locate within the planning area.
Policy MOB-6 Use Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to improve the safety and performance of the
circulation network, consistent with the Fresno County ITS Strategic Plan.
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITA) are advanced information and telecommunications networks
which aim to provide innovative services relating to different modes of transport and traffic
management and enable users to be better informed and make safer decisions.
Policy MOB-7 Prioritize operational solutions over major structural improvements to existing roadways
where feasible.
Examples include signalization, use of directional signs or pavement markings, and diversion of
traffic onto under-utilized streets
Policy MOB-8 Explore opportunities for management and maintenance of traffic control facilities to fall
under the City’s jurisdiction.
Active Transportation Facilities
Policy MOB-9 New development may be required to provide off-site pedestrian and/or bicycle facilities
to address gaps in the active transportation network.
Policy MOB-10 Develop a multi-purpose recreational bikeway network and support facilities.
• Action Item MOB-10a Review and revise, as needed, the Zoning Ordinance to include provisions
for short-term and long-term bicycle parking and storage facilities.
Policy MOB-11 Ensure Street and road projects are adequately designed to accommodate safe and
convenient pedestrian and bicyclist access.
• Action Item MOB-11a Review and revise, as needed, public works standards to include
pedestrian and bicycle safety features where appropriate.
Examples include provisions for pedestrian and bicycle access like sidewalks, pedestrian signal
indicators, bike lanes, bike boxes, and timing of traffic signals to allow safe pedestrian street
crossing. Meandering sidewalks are discouraged. Special consideration should be given to the
needs of children, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
• Action Item MOB-11b Establish design standards to ensure the bikeway network is easily
identifiable and consistent with standard signs and markings, as designated by the State of
California Traffic Control Devices Committee and the State Bikeway Committee.
Policy MOB-12 Require traffic calming techniques in the design of new local streets where such
techniques will manage traffic flow and improve safety for pedestrian and bicyclist users.
Traffic calming techniques are mainly physical measures that aim to reduce motor vehicle
MMSSRR//SSpphheerere o fo Ifn Ifnlufleunecne cUep Udaptdeate 7777 CCitiyty o off F Foowwlleerr
speeds, alter driver behavior, and improve conditions for non-motorized street users such as
pedestrians and bicyclists. Such techniques may include but are not limited to narrow drive
lanes, bulb-outs, raised crosswalks, or tighter corner turns.
Public Transportation
The Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA) provides fixed-route bus services and on-demand
transportation linking Fowler with the cities of Selma, Kingsburg, and Fresno. The nearest local
passenger rail station is in the City of Fresno and provides Amtrak services terminating in Emeryville,
Sacramento, Stockton, and Bakersfield. The following policies support the continued access and
expansion of these services.
Policy MOB-13 Coordinate with Caltrans, Fresno Council of Governments (COG), Fresno County Rural
Transit Agency (FCRTA), and other responsible agencies to identify the need for additional mobility
infrastructure and/or services along major commuter travel corridors.
Mobility infrastructure and services may include features such as park and ride facilities, on-call micro
transit, or mobility as a service program, among others. The intent of these facilities and services along
commuter corridors is to provide connectivity from Fowler to neighboring centers of employment and
regional transit hubs, such as nearby Amtrak stations.
Policy MOB-14 Identify opportunities for a multi-modal transit hub within the City. A multi-modal transit
hub joins all modes of transportation - automobiles, public transit, bicycles, and pedestrians - into one
convenient location to make it easier for travelers to use multiple modes of transportation and
encourage the use of alternative transportation modes.
Policy MOB-15 Support the development of paratransit service programs.
Policy MOB-16 Support transit operator efforts to maximize return for short- and long-range transit
needs.
• Action Item MOB-16a Actively participate in the development of short and long-range transit
plans, including the Fresno County Long Range Transit Plan and transit plans prepared by the
Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA).
The City may provide support through identifying funding mechanisms, including federal and
state grants, partnering on grant applications, or supporting state enabling legislation.
Policy MOB-17 Incorporate the potential for public transit service expansion throughout the City.
• Action Item MOB-17a Review and revise, as needed, public works standards to incorporate
design features to accommodate future public transit stops.
Policy MOB-18 Improve route options and access for public transit City-wide, specifically west of State
Route 99.
• Action Item MOB-18a Coordinate with Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA) and other
public transit agencies to facilitate additional transit stops.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 78 City of Fowler
• Action Item MOB-18b Ensure that pedestrian and bicycle facilities are provided along and/or
near transit routes, whenever feasible, to improve access and connectivity.
Pedestrian and bicycle facilities may include items such as adequate sidewalks, bike racks, shade
structures, and route maps.
Goods Movement and Truck Routes
Goods movement and truck route policies focus on the movement of goods, ensuring local roadways
and developments provide appropriately located, well-designed truck routes and loading areas. The
following policies also designate truck routes throughout the City.
Policy MOB-19 Designated truck routes for use by heavy commercial and industrial traffic shall include
Golden State Boulevard, Manning Avenue, and Temperance Avenue, as shown in Figure 9-2: Goods
Movement.
Policy MOB-20 Encourage the efficient movement of goods.
Goods movement refers to the large-scale distribution of goods and not the last mile movement
required to deliver goods directly to consumers.
• Action Item MOB-20a Identify economically feasible street and highway improvement and
maintenance projects that will improve goods movement.
• Action Item MOB-20b Identify opportunities to support commercial and industrial access to
existing rail facilities within the planning area.
Policy MOB-21 Facilitate goods movement and delivery through internal site design of commercial and
industrial areas.
Policy MOB-22 Ensure truck access points and loading facilities are designed to reduce conflict with
sensitive land uses.
Sensitive land uses include homes, schools, day care centers, playgrounds, and medical facilities.
Regional Coordination
Policy MOB-23 Coordinate with Caltrans in the design of capital improvement projects near State Route
99.
Policy MOB-24 Continue to support Golden State Boulevard as a secondary route connecting the
Kingsburg-Selma-Fowler corridor and providing access to the City of Fresno, Calwa, and Malaga.
Policy MOB-25 Coordinate local transportation planning with the Fresno Council of Governments (COG)
Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA), and other agencies on
relevant transportation plans to ensure eligibility for state and federal funding.
Policy MOB-26 Collaborate with Fresno County to integrate right-of-way and improvement standards
for roads that cross jurisdictional boundaries. For development outside the City’s boundaries, but within
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 79 City of Fowler
the Sphere of Influence (SOI), City and County staff will cooperate and agree on reasonable design
standards and negotiate logical transitions from City to County Standards. In general, for such
development under County jurisdiction but within the SOI, City Standards should apply if annexation
would logically occur in the short to intermediate range.
Financing Polices
Policy MOB-27 Provide for the logical, timely, and economically efficient extension of road infrastructure
improvements.
• Action Item MOB-27a Annually review and revise the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to
ensure roadway improvements are prioritized and scheduled for construction over at least a 5-
year period.
Policy MOB-28 Seek all available means to finance improvements, including State and Federal grants.
Policy MOB-29 Use appropriate entitlement processes and financial tools to ensure new development
contributes a fair share of the transportation improvements and/or costs to provide necessary
improvements.
• Action Item MOB-29a Participate in the establishment of regional transportation mitigation
fees and/or benefit districts to be assessed on new development. The fees shall cover a
reasonable share of the costs of providing local and subregional transportation improvements
needed for serving new development.
Entitlement processes, such as annexations, the use of development agreements, and the CEQA
process, may all be valuable tools in determining impacts, associated costs, and potential
improvements needed to develop and maintain the transportation system relative to the
construction of new development. Additional tools to ensure new development contributes
appropriately to the circulation network could include revenue sharing and tax allocation
agreements.
Standards for Roadway Development and Access
Policy MOB-30 Existing points of ingress and egress shall be consolidated whenever possible. Driveway
consolidation for new development shall be consistent with City standards and implemented through
access agreements along arterials.
• Action Item MOB-30a Review and revise, as necessary, City standards to establish criteria for
site ingress and egress and driveway locations.
Policy MOB-31 Ingress and egress to shopping centers shall minimize left-turn movements into and out
of parking or loading areas.
Policy MOB-32 Review standards for traffic signalization and revise to reflect alternative ways, beyond
the current warrant study, for the installation of traffic lights, stop signs, and alternative signalization
methods.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 80 City of Fowler
Policy MOB-33 Require residential developments along arterials to back-on to such streets with
ornamental fencing, landscaping, and waiver of access, or to provide frontage roads with limited points
of access to the street. “Open ended cul-de-sacs” to major streets are required for pedestrian access.
An open-ended cul-de-sac is designed to allow pedestrians, bicyclists, or other non-automotive traffic
pass through connecting paths at the end of the cul-de-sac, typically linking to the larger transportation
network or open space system.
Policy MOB-34 Limit access points and intersections of streets and highways based on the road’s General
Plan classification and function. Access points must be located a sufficient distance away from major
intersections to allow for safe, efficient operation.
• Action Item MOB-34a The distance between commercial driveways on arterial streets should
be not less than 400 feet. Where practical and desirable, commercial driveways should be
located on adjacent collector streets rather than on arterial streets.
• Action Item MOB-34b Driveway access to major activity centers, including multifamily
development, should be located no closer than 200 feet to the intersection of a collector or
arterial street.
Street Classification
Two major functions of roadways are to provide mobility for through traffic and to provide direct access
to adjacent properties. Specific roadways prioritize these two functions differently. For instance, arterial
roadways prioritize the movement of traffic over access to individual adjacent properties, whereas local
streets prioritize access to private properties. Roadways also consider bicycle and pedestrian mobility
and circulation. Each type of street plays an intentional role in the overall transportation network,
ensuring efficient and organized movement of people and goods.
Roadways in the City are categorized according to the volume and the level of service they are designed
to provide. Roadway functional classifications in Fowler include Freeways, Expressways, Arterial streets,
collector streets, and local streets.
Freeways carry regional traffic through the community with access only at interchanges with
major streets.
Expressways connect regional destinations on the non-freeway system and generally pass
through several jurisdictions. Traffic carrying capacity is maintained through access control at
2-mile intervals.
Arterial Streets serve as the principal network for cross-town traffic flow. They connect areas
of major traffic generation within the urban area and connect with important county roads and
state highways. They also provide for the distribution and collection of through traffic to and
from collector and local streets.
Collector Streets provide for traffic movement between arterial and local streets, traffic
movement within and between neighborhoods and major activity centers and limited direct
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 81 City of Fowler
access to abutting properties.
Local Streets are two- to three-lane roadways designed to provide direct access to properties,
while discouraging excessive speeds and volumes of motor vehicle travel incompatible with
neighborhoods being served through the implementation of multiple, well-connected routes
and traffic calming measures.
Freeways serve to connect otherwise disconnected areas with the larger network of roadways and
communities. Freeways are essential for the movement of goods and people across the region, allowing
for ease of travel across great distances. The Freeway Street Designation in Fowler is State Route 99.
Expressways connect regional destinations on the non-freeway system and generally pass through
several jurisdictions. They are designed for fast and efficient long-distance travel. Traffic carrying
capacity is maintained through access control at 2-mile intervals. The Expressway Street Designation in
Fowler is Golden State Boulevard.
Arterial streets in and surrounding Fowler serve as the principal network for traffic flow. Arterials provide
for the distribution and collection of through traffic to and from collector and local streets serving
residential, commercial, and industrial land uses, and access major travel generators. The Arterial Street
Designations are American Avenue, Fowler Avenue (West/South of Hwy 99), Temperance Avenue and
Manning Avenue.
Collector streets provide connectivity between local streets and the arterial street system. Many
Collector streets have a mix of residential and commercial properties. The Collector Street designations
are 5th Street, 7th Street, 8th Street, Armstrong Avenue, Clayton Avenue, Fowler Avenue (north of
Adams), Fresno Street, Lincoln Avenue, Merced Street, South Avenue, Sumner Avenue, Walter Avenue,
Adams Avenue, and Temperance Avenue (south of SR 99).
Local streets are exclusively intended to provide direct access in and out of residential areas. Local
streets are designed as two-to-three-lane roads with street parking available. They have lower traffic
volumes and speeds compared to arterial and collector streets making them pedestrian friendly.
Infrastructure, Facilities, and Infrastructure Needs
The Public Works Department is responsible for various repairs and maintenance throughout Fowler.
The Department has identified several areas of improvement needed. The City owns various equipment
and machinery needed to provide reliable and responsive street maintenance services. The Department
inventories its capital assets and implements a Strategic Plan that indexes the Department’s facilities
and infrastructure needs. The Department’s Strategic Plan objective is to maintain safe, efficient, and
accessible transportation infrastructure through proactive maintenance, modernization, and
partnerships. The key areas of focus for the Streets Division are as follows:
• Road Maintenance
• Sidewalk Repairs and ADA compliance
• Traffic Signal and Crosswalk Safety Enhancement
• Bikeway and Striping enhancements
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 82 City of Fowler
The Department references these four listed focus areas to prepare and update its five-year CIP.
Finance and Projects
The City funds street maintenance services through several accounts within the Public Works Department.
According to the FY 2025-26 Fowler budget and CIP, the Public Works’ Street Maintenance budget
amounted to $6,827,566 for city improvements. The majority of the City’s revenues for streets, street
improvements, and operation are obtained from the Fowler General Fund, the Local Transportation Fund
(LTF 8), and Special Revenues such as Measure C Grants, SB1, Surface Transportation Block Grant Program
(STBG), Highway Tax, and Transportation taxes. Overall, the City informed LAFCo that Fowler’s street and
transportation facilities serve all modes considered in the General Plan’s Circulation Element.
According to the City’s CIP for FY 2025-26, the City allocated $6,081,272 for improvements to streets
and sidewalk, including the Manning Section 130 Signalization Project ($1,855,000), South Avenue
Reconstruction – Stanford to Fowler ($1,032,062), 5th Street Paving – Tuolumne to Main ($308,573), and
4th Street Paving – Vine to Main ($304,573).64
These improvements maintain an emphasis on the rehabilitation of the City’s pavement, reconstruction,
and the improvement and extension of bike infrastructure; with the intention to improve circulation
and mobility throughout Fowler.
According to the City’s FY 2025-26 budget, the Public Work Department’s Street Maintenance CIP consists
of the following street improvement investments:65
• $308,573 for paving 5th Street – Tuolumne to Main
• $304,573 for paving 4th Street – Vine to Main
• $75,000 for paving 1st Street – Main to Merced
• $100,000 for various crack/slurry seals
• $400,000 for Merced streetscape
• $20,000 for the annual street restriping program
• $20,000 for the annual street sign replacement program
• $30,000 for ADA curb ramp and sidewalk reconstruction
• $10,000 for semiannual pothole patching
• $600,000 for Adams Avenue – sidewalk & curb ramps
• $1,807,250 for the Manning section 130 signalization project
• $700,000 for Fresno Street – 7th to 3rd
• $216,248 for South Avenue reconstruction – Stanford to Fowler (required 11.47% local
match for federal funding)
• $1,032,062 for South Avenue reconstruction – Stanford to Fowler
• $286,206 for Adams Avenue rehabilitation – SR99 to Stearns
• $38,565 for 7th & Merced Street right turn pocket (required 11.47% local match for
federal funding)
• $132,795 for 7th & Merced Street right turn pocket
64 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, pages 100-101.
65 Ibid.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 83 City of Fowler
The Department regularly pursues state and federal transportation grants to fund major facilities or
related machinery for maintenance of city streets, materials, and traffic flow improvements. The City also
works with the Fresno Council of Governments and the Fresno County Transportation Authority to
leverage local transportation funds.
The City’s Street Maintenance Division main challenge is attributed to the ongoing cost to keep pace with
street maintenance needs. The City does not have a consistent funding source to maintain the streets
at its current service level without additional support from state or federal funding opportunities.
Pavement Management System Implementation
The condition of street pavement is typically evaluated by local agencies using a Pavement Management
System (“PMS”), which regularly evaluates pavement condition and establishes a cost-effective
maintenance strategy. Each segment of pavement is rated for distress (i.e., cracks and potholes) and the
extent and severity of distress. Having an up-to-date PMS allows the local agency to quickly and efficiently
assess road maintenance needs and efficiently allocate resources.
Produced by Nichols Consulting Engineers (“NCE”) in 2019 and updated in 2025, the PMS reviews
pavement conditions across the 37.5 miles of road within Fowler on behalf of the Fresno Council of
Governments (“COG”) using StreetSaver® pavement management software. The study’s stated purpose
is to help city staff and policymakers make informed decisions about pavement maintenance and
investment.
According to the study, the average Pavement Condition Index (“PCI”) of Fowler’s roads is 63 which is
categorized as “Fair,” with residential roads in the worst condition, averaging a PCI of 57. Approximately
30 percent of the network falls into “Poor” or “Very Poor” condition categories, signaling urgent needs.
The study outlines four possible scenarios for the following decade which would result in either worse
road conditions, maintain the existing PCI of 63, improve PCI to 65, or improve PCI to 70.66
The first scenario assumes the city continues its current annual budget of $550,000, which would cause
the PCI to drop to 51 by FY 2033/2034 and deferred maintenance to rise to $49.4 million. The second
scenario, requiring $2.2 million annually, would maintain the current PCI of 63 but still allow deferred
maintenance to increase to $31.1 million. The third scenario, requiring $2.4 million annually, would
improve the PCI to 65 but allow deferred maintenance to increase to $29 million. The fourth and most
ambitious scenario proposes $3 million per year, improving PCI to 70 and cutting deferred maintenance
to $23 million. The executive summary concludes that the City increase the budget to at least $2.2 million
per year in order to maintain the pavement network condition of 63.
The City has determined that the following actions will be taken to improve driving conditions within
Fowler. The City will continue to prioritize the road segments with the lowest PCI and apply for federal
and state grants to maximize the City’s general fund and Measure C local dollars to be leveraged as a local
match for the larger grant funds. There is no guarantee that $2.2M in funding will be available per year,
but the City will leverage as much funding as is made available to maintain and rehabilitate the roadways.
According to the City of Fowler Adopted Budget Fiscal Year 2025-26, staff oversees numerous paving
projects each year, based on funding from the State, Fresno COG, and grants.
66 Pavement Management Program Update, September 2025, pages 1-8.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 84 City of Fowler
Maintenance of the City’s storm drainage piping and basins is essential to safeguard Fowler’s public and
private property against potential flooding. In addition to ongoing operational funding, this budget
includes funding for several specific drainage projects. This budget includes funding for various capital
improvement projects including improvements and paving next to Florist ($50,000), a Storm Water
Master Plan ($150,000), and miscellaneous repairs ($45,000).67
Street Maintenance
The Street Maintenance Division (“SMD”) is a subdivision of the Public Works Department and is
responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of our local streets. Street Maintenance includes signage,
striping, lighting, pothole patching, sidewalk repairs, weed/trash abatement, tree maintenance, and
maintenance of the storm drainage infrastructure. Staff also oversee numerous paving projects each
year, based on funding from the State, Fresno COG, and grants. Maintenance of the City’s storm
drainage piping and basins is essential to safeguard Fowler’s public and private property against
potential flooding.
The SMD maintains approximately 37.5 miles of streets: 8.1 miles classified as arterial roads, and 7.3
miles are collector roads 22.1 miles are residential/local roads.68 Additionally, the City owns and
maintains six signalized intersections and approximately three miles of separated shared used paths. The
City currently does not maintain streets outside of the Fowler City Limits.
Traffic paint and signage services include painting curbs, crosswalks, bike routes, right turn pockets,
most traffic related signage, and other essential traffic control devices. Paint and sign crews make sure
all roadway paint (crosswalks, turn lanes, painted curbs, and other pavement markings) and all traffic
signs (stop signs, no parking signs, street name signs, etc.) are installed and visible to the public.
Additionally, the Division repairs any traffic signs that have been damaged, destroyed, or vandalized.
The Division owns its equipment, tools, and necessary materials to maintain the street, curb, and gutters
that move traffic and convey water into the storm drains. The City’s equipment can be used to make basic
street improvements to streets and sidewalks as necessary.
Concrete maintenance includes repair of damaged sidewalks and curbs or gutter replacement of the
concrete infrastructure within the City limits.
The City contracts with an external on-call contractor to repair and maintain the traffic signals within
the City limits and crews respond to signal malfunctions 24 hours a day. The City relies on residents to
notify the City of any abnormalities that need to be addressed.
The Division’s crew also maintain the City’s temporary ponding basins, pump stations, and City well sites
to ensure drainage to permanent regional facilities in the event of flooding.
The Division has adopted a street sweeping schedule that occurs two times a month. Residents are
asked to move vehicles, equipment, trash cans, and any items that would prevent the street sweeper
from the ability to properly clean the debris off the street on their scheduled days. This allows sweepers
to freely remove trash from gutters and streets on a regular basis.
67 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, pages 100-101.
68 Pavement Management Program Update, September 2025, pages 1-8.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 85 City of Fowler
Within the Public Works Department, personnel work with residents and neighborhoods to identify
projects for funding in future budgets. Such projects include traffic signs, signals, street lighting,
undulations, re-stripping, traffic and safety concerns, and any other concerns addressing both vehicle
and pedestrian traffic and safety.
The City of Fowler Public Works Department regularly conducts street maintenance surveys and traffic
counts, frequently evaluates the condition of the City’s streets, and develops an updated PMS to guide
future maintenance and repair efforts. With this evaluation methodology, the City is able to determine
whether existing roadways are in need of repair or maintenance and secure the appropriate funding
resources through the City’s Community Improvement Program (CIP), which matches potential projects
with regional (Measure C, RSTBG, etc.), state (SB1, etc.) or federal funding (CMAQ, etc.) programs and
sources. Additionally, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Public Works
Department works with the Engineering Department to identify and improve access within the public
rights- of-way to ensure more mobility for the disabled.
Service Adequacy
Routine funding from state and federal resources historically has not kept up with the additional
demands needed to maintain existing streets and roads. On the federal level, transportation funding is
reliant on a per gallon gas tax that has remained unchanged over several decades or one-time
congressional bills that provide large injections of cash which are allocated based on competitive
application processes. During this time, vehicles have been increasingly fuel-efficient resulting in less
revenue being generated though the number of miles travelled has increased.
Funding at the state level has several of the same challenges as the primary funding source of state
transportation funds being derived from taxes on gasoline and diesel. The improvements in fuel
economy, combined with a reluctance to increase federal and state fuel taxes, have negatively impacted
road quality in Fowler. Specifically, since these are not stable and consistent funding streams, the lack
of continual funding has negatively impacted the conditions of the City’s roads, streets, sidewalks, etc.
According to the City, it foresees that Senate Bill 1 (“SB1”) funding will assist many local agencies and
fund much needed road improvements. Senate Bill 1, known as the Road Repair and Accountability Act
of 2017, is a transportation funding package focused on improving the local and state roadway
systems. SB1 established fuel taxes and vehicle fees which will generate new funding for roadways,
including up to $1.5 billion per year allocated directly to counties and cities for local road maintenance,
safety improvements and complete street improvements including facilities for bicycles and
pedestrians. With this new funding source, the City would be eligible to secure funding to continue
critical services, including pothole filling and pavement maintenance work. According to the Fresno
COG, the City of Fowler’s share of SB1 dollars is estimated at $199,525 for FY 2025-26.69 In FY 2025-26,
the City is projected to spend $700,000 SB1 dollars for street improvements 70 on the Fresno Street 7th
to 3rd project.71
Pavement management studies have shown that it is more cost effective to maintain pavement in good
69 Fresno Council of Governments, SB1. Website: Senate Bill 1 - Fresno Council of Governments
70 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2024-25, page 69.
71 California Local Government Finance Almanac 2024-25 & 2025-26, pages 1-3. Website: Local Street and Road Estimates
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 86 City of Fowler
condition over its useful life than to let it deteriorate to the point that it requires a major overlay or
reconstruction. Deferring maintenance can increase long-term maintenance costs as much as four times
greater than a consistent preventative maintenance strategy, according to the Transportation Research
Board. Street reconstruction is typically needed once asphalt is 20-35 years old, with the asphalt lifespan
depending on the use of preventative maintenance efforts. During 2025, the City is performing
preventative maintenance on many of its roadways, including pothole repairs. Repairs happen routinely
throughout the year as potholes are reported. There is not a set schedule, but the latest repair happened
as recently as late November 2025.
Traffic congestion is measured based on the daily number of vehicle hours of delay due to congestion.
Historically, Level of Service (“LOS”) analysis has relied upon a conventional perspective of the primary
use of public streets by motor vehicles rather than considering all modes of travel, including public
transportation, bicycling and walking. LOS on streets and highways is rated on a scale of A-F, where “A”
is the best rating and “F” the worst. LOS “E” means significant delays, unstable traffic flow, and rapidly
fluctuating speeds and flow rates; LOS “F” means considerable delay with forced traffic flow and speeds
dropping to zero.
The City’s General Plan proposes a Policy under the Travel Management System, which serves to outline
the ideal LOS at various times of the day as well as the ideal LOS at specific intersections. Policy MOB-5
Encourage a LOS "C" throughout the local circulation network. LOS “D” may be allowed during peak
hours at intersections of major streets, at State Route 99 interchanges, and along street segments where
additional improvements are not feasible. LOS “D” may also be allowed along streets with the potential
for a high level of pedestrian and bicyclist activity. LOS “E” may be permitted during peak hour use of
certain road intersections and segments where pedestrian and bicycle activity is prioritized.
Another important indicator of roadway service demand is the City’s vehicle miles of travel (“VMT”). VMT
per street mile is the total mileage traveled by all vehicles on a given day, divided by the mileage of
roadway in the jurisdiction. The daily VMT for the Fowler planning area under existing conditions is
247,894. Under future conditions (buildout of the Fowler 2040 General Plan, the projected daily VMT
would be 1,240,395. In comparison to existing conditions, VMT would increase by approximately
992,501, or 500%.
The Fresno Council of Government’s Public Transportation Infrastructure Study identified strategies for
transportation investments and land use policies that would result in measurable reductions in vehicle
miles traveled (“VMT”) and improve mobility choices for greater Fresno County residents.72 Reducing
VMT reduces the need to expend funds on fuel, lowers vehicle wear and tear, preserves scarce roadway
capacity for more important trips, and helps people increase their physical activity and therefore health.
During calendar year 2025, the City reported that it received approximately 7-10 calls per month for
road repair requests. Generally, road repair requests consist of pothole repairs and cave-ins, crack
sealing, street sweeping, traffic signal repairs, and maintenance of storm drainage and drainage ways.
Street Maintenance Services are the responsibility of the City and Traffic signal repairs and street
maintenance have transitioned from the City of Fresno to the City of Fowler as of August 2025. The City
informed LAFCo staff that the City’s local roadways meet the existing needs for public roadway facilities
72 Fresno Council of Governments, Public Transportation Infrastructure Study. Website: https://www.fresnocog.org/public-transportation-
infrastructure-study/
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 87 City of Fowler
and services within the City and meet the minimum standard as identified by the General Plan
Circulation Element. The City anticipates that it is able to meet probable needs for public roadway
facilities and services as the City grows outwards.
Staffing
The Public Works Department is responsible for the overall operation of the City’s Street Maintenance
Services. The Public Works Department functions as a generalist agency, meaning that Department staff
perform multiple services. The Public Works Department is comprised of 13 full-time employees.
The Department is overseen by a Director who reports to the City Manager. The Director of the Public
Works and Public Utilities is responsible for seven divisions consisting of: Administration, Water, Streets,
Parks, Facilities, Fleet, Animal Services.
The Streets & Parks Division regularly shares maintenance workload with Sweeping Corporation of
America to include street maintenance and repair, sidewalks, storm drainage facilities, parks, fleet and
equipment, tree trimming, sign maintenance and replacement, streetlights, concrete repair, and
median island landscape maintenance. The Streets and Parks Divisions employ 9 full-time equivalent
(“FTE”) staff. Street sweeping services are provided by the Sweeping Corporation of America and
facilitated through an ongoing contract with the city.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 88 City of Fowler
Figure 10-1. City of Fowler Existing Roadways
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MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 89 City of Fowler
Figure 10-2. Goods Movement
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MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 90 City of Fowler
11. Wastewater Services
The City of Fowler receives wastewater collection and treatment services from the Selma-Kingsburg-
Fowler County Sanitation District (“SKF”), a public agency established in 1971 by the Fresno County Board
of Supervisors. SKF serves the cities of Selma, Kingsburg, and Fowler by providing comprehensive
wastewater management services, including collection, treatment, and disposal.
Facilities and Infrastructure
SKF operates a robust wastewater management system, which includes a treatment plant and an
extensive collection network. The collection system spans roughly 176 miles of pipeline and 24 lift
stations. In the City of Fowler, approximately 60% of gravity sewer mains are 8 inches or smaller in
diameter, with larger mains incorporated into system capacity planning per SKF’s 2024 Master Plan
Update.
The centralized treatment facility, located at 11301 E. Conejo Avenue in Kingsburg, CA, has the capacity
to process over 2.9 billion gallons of wastewater annually, meeting stringent California regulatory
standards. The plant utilizes a two-stage screw pump system and covers about 550 acres. Operations are
supported by a computerized preventive maintenance schedule and a comprehensive monitoring
program that collects more than 900 samples annually. The facility also features a 24-hour alarm system
and on-call personnel to respond to emergency situations.
In addition, SKF operates twenty-four (24) pumping stations throughout its three member cities. These
stations are equipped with 24-hour monitoring systems to ensure system reliability. The collection
department maintains over 176 miles of gravity sewer lines and 4 miles of force mains in public rights-of-
way, cleaned on a 24-month schedule to minimize blockages and overflows.
Each city maintains ownership of interceptors within its jurisdiction, while SKF manages the regional
infrastructure—including sewer lines connecting the cities to the treatment facility and the
percolation/evaporation ponds situated on a 550-acre property south of East Conejo Avenue near
Kingsburg. The district’s service area covers approximately 8,920 acres, with a sphere of influence (SOI)
encompassing about 17,245 acres.
The overall system includes about 180 miles of sewer pipelines ranging from 8 to 42 inches in diameter
and 24 wastewater pump stations. SKF operations are regulated by the California Regional Water Quality
Control Board under Order No. 5-01-255.
System Capacity and Planning
According to the 2024 Collection System Master Plan (“CSMP”), SKF evaluated the hydraulic capacity of
its collection system using Peak Wet Weather Flow (“PWWF”), Average Dry Weather Flow (“ADWF”), and
Peak Dry Weather Flow (“PDWF”). At the time of the plan, ADWF was estimated at 4.15 million gallons
per day (mgd), PDWF at 7.59 mgd, and the design capacity for PWWF was 15.36 mgd. The CSMP outlines
buildout projections consistent with member cities’ growth tiers.
Fowler, the smallest of the three member cities by population, is located roughly 10 miles south of Fresno.
It supports industrial uses that generate substantial wastewater volumes. For the 2040 General Plan
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 91 City of Fowler
effort, Fowler adopted a growth management strategy to balance growth with demand for new
development, prioritize development in alignment with the community goals, and effectively manage
municipal service expansion and maintain services for existing development. The growth management
strategy includes the establishment of four urban growth tiers. The Priority Development Area (“PDA”)
indicates the top priority for growth and development, followed by Growth Tiers I, II, and III.
The PDA encompasses approximately 3,962 acres and focuses on infill development within and around
the City limits as well as development of industrial and commercial lands along the State Route (SR) 99
and Golden State Boulevard corridors. Growth Tier I includes approximately 697 acres planned for a mix
of residential, commercial land, and open space uses to the west of the PDA. Growth Tier II includes
approximately 744 acres to the north and east of the PDA and is planned for primarily residential land
uses with some minor commercial uses. Growth Tier III includes approximately 287 acres to the south of
the PDA west of the Manning Avenue interchange and is planned for residential, commercial, and
industrial land uses.
Each growth tier has an associated threshold that determines when annexation into the area may occur.
Thresholds are based on building permits issued and are identified for residential, commercial, and
industrial development
SKF currently serves areas within and adjacent to Fowler’s city limits, including one property that receives
extraterritorial water service. The service area within Fowler accommodates roughly 7,154 residents.
General Plan Policies
Fowler’s 2040 General Plan includes the following goals and policies regarding wastewater facilities,
collection and treatment.
Goal PF-1 Fowler provides reliable public facilities, utilities, and community services that meet the needs
of the existing community and planned growth. PP
Goal PF-2 Fowler maintains and manages the orderly and efficient expansion of public facilities, utilities,
and community services.
Provision of Public Facilities
Policy PF-1 Require private and public land developments to provide all on-site and off-site facility
improvements or pay in-lieu fees necessary to mitigate any development-generated public facility impacts.
• Action Item PF-1a Require the developer to be responsible for the improvement and/or provision
of adequate public facilities and services to maintain existing service levels for existing residents
and businesses. This may include the installation of additional public facilities, water, or road
infrastructure, or the provision of fees for emergency, public safety, and City services.
Water Supply and Distribution
Policy PF-16 Design and construct water system infrastructure as needed to meet current and future water
demands and system requirements.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 92 City of Fowler
• Action Item PF-16a Prepare and maintain a Water Systems Master Plan to estimate future water
demands, identify an adequate supply of water to meet future demands, and identify potential
new water supplies.
Policy PF-17 Continue to establish development fees and user rates that are sufficient to operate,
maintain, and upgrade (for current and future regulatory requirements) the City’s water, wastewater, and
stormwater infrastructure.
Policy PF-18 Continue to cooperate with the Selma-Kingsburg-Fowler County Sanitation District to design
and construct wastewater system infrastructure as needed to safely convey, treat and recycle, and dispose
of current and future wastewater flows and achieve future regulatory and system requirements.
Policy PF-19 Actively participate in the Selma-Kingsburg-Fowler County Sanitation District wastewater
master plan update proves to ensure it aligns with planned land uses and projected demands for the City
of Fowler.
Long-Term Growth and Coordination
In 2024, SKF adopted an updated Collections Sewer System Master Plan to guide the development and
expansion of its infrastructure using Primary, Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 projections. These projections
ensure that future infrastructure investments reflect the planned growth of member cities.
SKF uses each city’s adopted general plan and SOI to project population growth and development needs.
Infrastructure planning is closely coordinated with member agencies through the City-County review
process, ensuring that SKF’s capacity and services expand in alignment with urban development.
While the proposed amendment to Fowler’s SOI falls outside SKF’s current SOI, the district continues to
base growth projections on local planning frameworks. As detailed in the Master Plan, the existing
treatment plant has sufficient capacity to accommodate projected growth under Fowler’s General Plan.
Much of the anticipated increase in wastewater flow will come from residential development, which the
facility is well-equipped to manage.
As of the latest reporting, the plant is treating approximately 4.2 mgd, or approximately 50% of its 8.0
mgd capacity.
Funding
SKF operations are funded through a combination of connection fees, monthly service charges, and state
and federal grants.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 93 City of Fowler
SKF Budget Overview – Fiscal Year 2025–2026
The SKF proposes adjustments to the annual sewer service charges for equivalent single-family residences
(“ESFRs”) as follows:
• Selma: $637.72 (up from $583.14)
• Kingsburg: $595.72 (up from $543.14)
• Fowler: $608.72 (up from $557.14)
The rate increases reflect rising costs associated with:
• Infrastructure repair, refurbishment, and replacement
• Operational services and supplies
• Staff salaries and benefits
• Labor expenses
• Reduced industrial usage of the treatment facility
Figure 11-1. ESFR Annual Unit Cost Breakdown:
Category Annual Cost
Operation & Maintenance Service Charge $433.13
District Refurbishment & Replacement $106.59
Subtotal $ 539.72
Selma R&R Charge $98.00
Kingsburg R&R Charge $56.00
Fowler R&R Charge $69.00
T otal Annual Sewer Charges:
Selma $637.72
Kingsburg $595.72
Fowler $608.72
All customer classes—including industrial, commercial, institutional, multi-residential, and single-family residential—are charged
uniformly based on gallons of wastewater, pounds of suspended solids (SS), and pounds of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD).
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 94 City of Fowler
Figure 11-2. Fowler Collection System Capital Refurbishment & Replacement Activites
SELMA-KINGSBURG-FOWLER COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT
FUNCTION #3 (COLLECTION SYSTEM CAPITAL REFURBISHMENT & REPLACEMENT\ ACTIVITIES (FY 2025-26\
BEGINNING BALANCE
Beginning FY Cash Balance S 1,810,873 $ 1,810,873
PROPOSED APPROVED
REVENUE BUDGET BUDGET
4400-300-05 Service Charges -Residential, Commercial, lnstilutional 213,073 213,073
4405-300-05 Service Charges -Industrial 91,272 91,272
5400-300-05 Interest Earnings 34 111 34,111
TOTAL REVENUE 338,456 338,456
EXPENDITURES
8000-305-05 Miscellaneous Repairs 45,000 45,000
8011-305-05 .. CCTV Inspection and Review 55,000 55,000
8016-305-05 .. Sewer Improvements (Alley Between 6th/7th Street and
Tuolumne/Modesto) (2/2) 415 000 415000
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 515,000 515,000
ENDING BALANCE
Ending FY Cash Balance Reserve 1,634,329 1,634,329
!iQ!s§. 1) •Asterisk denotes item previously authorized by Board for expenditure.
The amount shown is the total approved budget and may be expended over more
than one fiscal year. •Asterisk plus "encumbered· or (enc.) denotes a previously-authorized
item with the amount shown being the anticipated remaining budget for this fiscal year.
2) ..A sterisks denotes the item is a multiple-year project as noted in
Capital Improvement Project.
3) Beginning balance may be different from previous fiscal year's ending balance. This may be
due to projects, miscellaneous repairs and emergency repairs over or under budget, and revenue
actuals. The annual audit and board actions reflect the differences.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 95 City of Fowler
12. Water Services
This section of the MSR provides a general assessment of water service provided by the City of Fowler.
The City of Fowler’s Department of Public Works (“Fowler DPW”) Water Division is responsible for the
ground water wells with on-site disinfection and remediation facilities, a water distribution system, and
associated water storage facilities.
Water Division
The Water Division operates under the administration direction of the Fowler Department of Public Works
(“DPW”). The Water Division’s headquarters are located at 128 5th Street, Fowler, CA 93625. The Water
Division is responsible for all aspects of the city’s public water system, operated under domestic water
supply ID #CA1010006 issued by the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water
(“SWRCB”) issued on January 1, 1976.
The Fowler Water Division oversees all aspects of the city's water system, including water delivery, service
initiation and termination, billing, collection, and payment services. Their responsibilities include
overseeing tie-ins, fulfilling reporting requirements, and supporting the maintenance, security, and
enhancement of the water system. They conduct regular testing of water system, emergency power
systems, ensure compliance with regulations, manage and monitor the quality and distribution of drinking
water, and protect the groundwater management program while being consistent with State regulations.
Additionally, they manage city contracts, joint power agreements, and future master planning of the water
infrastructure. Regular repair and replacement of water lines, pumps, meters, and other equipment are
carried out to maintain the system's integrity. Furthermore, water services include maintenance and
operations of groundwater wells, maintenance of all water meters, and the entire distribution system.
As of November 2025, the water division provides potable water to 2,305 active service connections for
domestic, commercial, institutional, and industrial uses.73
Fowler General Plan Goals
The City of Fowler General Plan Public Facilities Element, Open Space and Conservation element establish
policies for its public facilities. The following general plan policies establish direction regarding the City’s
water services.
Goal PF-1 Fowler provides reliable public facilities, utilities, and community services that meet the needs
of the existing community and planned growth.
Goal PF-2 Fowler maintains and manages the orderly and efficient expansion of public facilities, utilities,
and community services.
73 California Drinking Water Watch, Water System Details. Website:
https://sdwis.waterboards.ca.gov/PDWW/JSP/WaterSystemDetail.jsp?tinwsys_is_number=879&tinwsys_st_code=CA&wsnumber=CA1010006
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 96 City of Fowler
Provision of Public Facilities
Policy PF-1 Require private and public land developments to provide all on-site and off-site facility
improvements or pay in-lieu fees necessary to mitigate any development-generated public facility
impacts.
• Action Item PF-1a Require the developer to be responsible for the improvement and/or provision
of adequate public facilities and services to maintain existing service levels for existing residents
and businesses. This may include the installation of additional public facilities, water, or road
infrastructure or the provision of fees for emergencies, public safety, and City services.
Policy PF-2 Consider providing public cost sharing of public services under certain circumstances to
encourage desirable and innovative development within the city.
Policy PF-3 Ensure that land divisions and developments are approved only when a project's
improvements, dedications, and fees fully cover incremental costs to the City and other agencies. Such
improvements and infrastructure include parks, major streets, traffic signals, streetlights, drainage
systems, sewer, water, fire, police, schools, and other related facilities.
Policy PF-4 Regularly evaluate and update, as necessary, development impact fees and other applicable
City fees. Policy PF-5 Require dedication of necessary rights-of-way as part of the land division and land
use review processes.
Policy PF-6 Prepare and maintain resources and mechanisms to adequately plan for, develop, and
maintain public facilities.
• Action Item PF-6a Prepare, adopt, and periodically update a Capital Improvement Program which
outlines and prioritizes necessary updates and additions to public facilities for a minimum 5-year
period. Review and update the CIP on an annual basis.
Policy PF-7 Use special districts as appropriate to provide broad neighborhood improvements such as
drainage, open space, and other public works projects.
Water Supply and Distribution
Policy PF-16 Design and construct water system infrastructure as needed to meet current and future water
demands and system requirements.
• Action Item PF-16a Prepare and maintain a Water Systems Master Plan to estimate future water
demands, identify an adequate supply of water to meet future demands, and identify potential
new water supplies.
Policy PF-17 Continue to establish development fees and user rates that are sufficient to operate,
maintain, and upgrade (for current and future regulatory requirements) the City’s water, wastewater, and
stormwater infrastructure.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 97 City of Fowler
Water Quality and Conservation
Policy SAF-13 Conserve and, where feasible, create or restore areas providing water quality benefits such
as undeveloped open space areas, basins, and drainage canals.
Policy SAF-14 Maintain the domestic water system in accordance with appliable water quality standards.
• Action Item SAF-14a Monitor funding sources for improvements, if necessary, to maintain the
domestic water system in accordance with applicable water quality standards.
Policy SAF-15 Require new development to protect water quality through site design, pollution
prevention, storm water treatment, runoff reduction measures, best management practices (“BMPs”),
and Low Impact Development (“LID”) strategies.
Policy SAF-16 Require the use of native, drought tolerant, or low water use landscaping in both public and
private development to reduce or eliminate the need for landscape irrigation.
• Action Item SAF-16a Review and revise, as necessary, the adopted water efficient landscape
standards for consistency with the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, as
amended. As required, submit reports on the City’s implementation of its landscape standards
to the California Department of Water Resources and/or other agencies.
• Action Item SAF-16b Update City design standards to require residential developers to provide
a no-turf landscape option that is priced the same as the standard landscape option.
Policy SAF-17 Promote programs to improve water efficiency in new and existing buildings.
Policy SAF-18 Explore the use of recycled water to irrigate landscape areas.
• Action Item SAF-18a Coordinate with Selma-Kingsburg-Fowler (“SKF”) County Sanitation District
on what options are available to reuse recycled water.
Groundwater Management
Policy PF-21 Protect groundwater resources within the planning area. This includes protecting the
occurrence of groundwater recharge, as well as the quality and quantity of available groundwater
resources.
Policy PF-22 Support local efforts to implement the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (“SGMA”).
Coordinate with applicable Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (“GSAs”) to implement appropriate
policies and programs identified in adopted Groundwater Sustainability Plans (“GSPs”).
Policy PF-23 Where appropriate, integrate identified actions and projects from the Groundwater
Sustainability Plans into the City’s Capital Improvement Program.
Policy PF-24 Where feasible, require on-site systems that facilitate groundwater recharge and/or
retention and reuse of water on-site.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 98 City of Fowler
City Water Plans
The City of Fowler plans for its water supply through the development of the General Plan to ensure the
sustainability, reliability, and quality of its water supply. These plans examine the feasibility of Fowler’s
planned growth. The plans have included measures to manage and conserve the city’s water resources,
such as promoting water efficient landscaping ground water recharge programs, and providing
infrastructure upgrades. A Water Master Plan is currently in the developing stages.
The City of Fowler also collaborates with local irrigation districts to fund and construct groundwater
recharge projects, which helps maintain groundwater levels. Additionally, the city promotes water
conservation among residents, businesses, and agricultural users to reduce overall water demand and
ensure a sustainable supply.
Regulations and Fowler’s Water Distribution System
The City relies solely upon groundwater from six active groundwater wells to serve its rate payers.
According to city, its water system consists of approximately 250,000 lineal feet of water lines ranging
from 2-12 inches, and are made of Asbestos Concrete, PVC C-900, Ductile Iron, Cast Iron, SDR-35 PVC, and
Steel. There are 378 fire hydrants.
The City of Fowler does not currently have a water storage facility. An Elevated tank exists at the city’s
corporation yard on 5th street between Main Street and Fresno Street. This tank was filled with water from
well #1, which was abandoned in 2006. The tank is currently offline and needs significant repair before
being reintroduced to the system. Also, the existing tank is only 60,000 gallons, which may not meet the
storage needs of the community.
Pursuant to requirements of the City’s public water system permit, the city regularly tests its entire water
system, from wells to service connection points, to collect water quality samples that are reported to the
SWRCB.
Each of the wells in operation supply water to a distribution system located in City streets, Caltrans Right
of Way, and alleys. As of 2005, the City is authorized to draw groundwater from well site numbers: 2, 4,
5A, 6, 7, 8A. The well sitesare equipped with appropriate electrical controls to maintain adequate
pressures to supply the public distribution system. Well sites 6, 7, and 8A are equiped with emergency
back up generators. According to the City, Well 7 has a treatment facility under construction to mitigate
the 1,2,3 - Trichloropropane (“TCP”) contamiant detected at the well site. While the site is not yet
operational, the City projects it to be fully operational by February 2026.
The City operates a Public Water Supply #CA1010006 with the latest amendment issued on December 30,
2005, by the California Water Resources Control Board. This permit is part of the environmental impact
report and regulatory compliance with the City’s water system. This permit ensures that the city’s water
system operations comply with state regulations and standards, addressing environmental concerns and
promoting sustainable water management practices.
The State Water Resources Control Board and the Regional Water Quality Control Boards are regulatory
agencies in charge of water quality. SWRCB tracks surface water conditions throughout California as well
as water bodies with contaminants exceeding water quality standards. The City pumps an annual average
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 99 City of Fowler
of 677 million gallons (equivalent to 2078 acre-feet of water) for potable use. The maximum day demand
(“MDD”) averages 4.1 million gallons, or 2,869 gallons per minute. The City has a maximum production
capacity of 5,900 gallons per minute from the six active wells and therefore can meet MDD even with the
highest producing well off-line as required by California Waterworks Standards. Figure 12-2 summarizes
capacity levels for each of the City’s active well sites.
The current static water level in the wells is on average between 85 to 95 feet. According to city staff, the
depth of groundwater in Fowler has experienced some fluctuations over the past years, primarily due to
factors like seasonal changes and overall groundwater conditions. However, the city has managed to
maintain a relatively stable groundwater level, averaging between 85 to 95 feet.
Figure 12-1. Fowler’s Active Wells and Production Capacities
Active Well Number Estimated Capacity (GPM) Constituents of Concern
Well No. 2 300
Well No. 4 450
Well No. 5A 1,100
Well No.6 1,250
Well No. 7
1,700 TCP
(Under Construction)
Well No. 8A 1,100
Well No.9
TBD N/A
(Under Construction)
Total 5,900
Ground Water Supply
The City has historically relied on groundwater and draws its supply from the Kings Subbasin of the San
Joaquin Valley Groundwater Basin. The Kings Subbasin underlies Fowler, as well as Fresno, Kings, and
Tulare Counties. The South Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency (“SKGSA”) boundary encompasses
the city and district limits of the member agencies, total an area of 9,635 acres on the San Joaquin Valley
floor in the County of Fresno. According to the Department of Water Resources (“DWR”), the Kings
Subbasin was identified in 1980 to be in critical condition of overdraft in Bulletin 118-80.
The 2003 update of DWR’s Bulletin 118 identifies groundwater overdraft as the condition of groundwater
basin or subbasin in which the amount of water withdrawn by pumping exceeds the amount of water that
recharges the basin over a period of years, during which the water supply conditions approximate average
conditions.
According to the Kings River Conservation District, overdraft conditions in the Kings Subbasin are
estimated to average 52,462 million gallons per year from years 1964 to 2004. Estimates show that
approximately 3.2 million gallons of groundwater have been “mined” in the last 50 years, that is, pumped
without being replaced. The Kings River Conservation District’s models project that overdraft conditions
will average around 3,975 million gallons per year through year 2035. The DWR bulletin acknowledges
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 100 City of Fowler
that groundwater recharge programs are being conducted by various water agencies within the Kings
Subbasin to ensure that groundwater pumping will continue to be a viable water supply for the future.74
Service Adequacy
This section reviews indicators of service adequacy, including the California Department of Public Health
(“DPH”) system evaluation now conducted by the SWRCB, Division of Drinking Water. The City’s water
system is comprehensively inspected by SWRCB every two years, and certain areas of the distribution
system are sampled in a rotation to collect data throughout each year.
Up until recently, the DPH was responsible for the enforcement of the federal and California Safe Drinking
Water Acts and the operational permitting and regulatory oversight of public water systems in California.
Domestic water providers of at least 200 connections were subject to DPH inspections. In recent years,
responsibility has been moved to the California Water Resources Control Board’s Division of Drinking
Water (DDW) for the enforcement of these water quality standards, and inspections of all the City of
Fowler’s water facilities.
In 2018, DDW issued a compliance order based on the presence of 1,2,3 Trichloropropane (1,2,3 TCP)
over the recently adopted maximum contaminant level (“MCL”). The City of Fowler is currently in the
process of constructing a Granular Activated Carbon (“GAC”) filtration system that would remove the
substance from the Water System to comply with DDW standard.
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act of 2014 (“SGMA”)
The City lies within the Kings Groundwater Sub-Basin, which is also within the San Joaquin Basin
Hydrologic Area. The Kings Sub-basin has been identified as critically over drafted.
California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act was signed into law on September 16, 2014. This
three-part legislation requires local agencies to develop groundwater sustainability plans that are
compatible with their regional economic and environmental needs. SGMA creates a framework for
sustainable local groundwater management for the first time in California’s history. SGMA required local
agencies to form Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (“GSAs”) in local groundwater basins by June
2017 and requires the adoption of Groundwater Sustainability Plans (“GSPs”) for groundwater basins
deemed high priority by 2020.
The City of Fowler lies within the South Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency, which is coterminous
with the city limits of Kingsburg, Fowler, Parlier, Sanger and the district boundary of the Del Rey
Community Service District. The South Kings GSA aims to facilitate collaboration between local agencies
to come up with useful strategies to implement the SGMA in the South Kings subbasin. In addition, the
MOU contracts other agencies that overly the subbasin to coordinate with the GSA to implement a
Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) and meet the requirements of the Act.
Groundwater within the South Kings Subbasin generally meets primary and secondary drinking water
standards for municipal water use. However, the groundwater basin is impacted by chemical
contaminants that affect the City’s ability to use the groundwater basin resource without filtration of one
74 California’s Groundwater Bulletin 118, Update 2003. Website: water.ca.gov/-/media/DWR-Website/Web-Pages/Programs/Groundwater-
Management/Bulletin-118/Files/Statewide-Reports/Bulletin_118_Update_2003.pdf
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 101 City of Fowler
of the City’s well sites. The contaminant impacting the City’s groundwater supply is 1,2,3-
Trichloropropane (“TCP”).
Of the City of Fowler’s six currently active wells, only one exceeds the MCL for the contaminant 1,2,3-TCP.
Wells 4, 5A, 6, and 8A remain as non-detect or within allowable limits on annual averages. However, to
address this contamination for Well 7, a GAC vessel treatment system is under construction and scheduled
to be operational by February 2026.
Groundwater Recharge Projects
The City of Fowler has undertaken several gro undwater recharge projects to ensure a sustainable water
supply. In 2014, the city entered into an agreement with the Consolidated Irrigation District (“CID”) to help
fund these projects. The agreement outlines specific funding from the city to construct groundwater
recharge projects that benefit Fowler.
These projects typically involve building recharge basins or modifying existing structures to allow for
efficient infiltration of surface water into the groundwater basin. The city also collaborates with local
irrigation districts to identify suitable locations for these recharge basins and utilizes available surface
water to fill them. Regular monitoring ensures the effectiveness of these projects in replenishing the
aquifer and maintaining groundwater levels.
One very important project is the City of Fowler Well No. 9, which intends to supplement the city's water
supply system by constructing a new groundwater well. This well is expected to yield approximately 1,200
gallons per minute (“gpm”) and will be drilled to a depth of approximately 720 feet.
The City of Fowler has partnered with the CID on several groundwater recharge projects. Here are some
key projects that benefit the city:
1. Adams & Academy Recharge Basin: This 30-acre basin is still under construction. Thanks to
special provisions from the state, CID was allowed to put up temporary berms so the basin could
take water for flood control and recharge during the historic 2023 water year 2.
2. Groundwater Recharge Programs: In 2014, the City of Fowler entered into an agreement with
CID to fund groundwater recharge programs. These programs are designed to enhance the city's
water supply and ensure sustainability.
3. Collaboration with Kings Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agencies: The City of Fowler
continues to work with the Kings Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agencies to route projects
that may affect or be affected by groundwater recharge efforts.
Water Service Demand
The City of Fowler has a water usage rate system. As of February 21, 2024, there were approximately
2,250 active metered connections for domestic, commercial, institutional, and industrial uses. Its metered
accounts consist of the following approximate number of users: 2020 residential, 120 commercial, 65
industrial/institutional, and 45 landscape/irrigation connections. The City of Fowler has owned and
operated the water system for city residents since about 1908. The activity date for the well system is
January 1, 1976.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 102 City of Fowler
Projected Water Demand
According to Fowler, the City anticipates an increase in water consumption by a five percent average
annual growth rate through 2030 simply by the current interest and tentative subdivision and parcel
maps progressing through the entitlement process.
Water Funding
The City charges user fees to all water customers to cover the costs of water production, distribution and
treatment. The City’s water rates are based on water usage, either single family residential, multiple
family residential, commercial account Institutional or Industrial accounts.
In June 2024, according to Resolution No. 2727 the City Council approved a new rate plan for the Water
Division that is in compliance with Proposition 218 requirements beginning July 1, 2024. User rates are
based on usage and shall be increased by 5% annually each July 1 over a 5-year period. The City’s water
rates consist of a Base monthly rate of $26.35 for up to 12,000 gallons per month, and an additional
$4.74 per additional 1,000 gallons per month for all residential, commercial and industrial properties.
For all industrial properties there is an initial rate increase of 8.70% for year 1 and an annual increase of
5% each year thereafter during the 5-year period. There is a base rate of $40.15 for up to 12,000 gallons
per month, and an additional $4.02 per additional 1,000 gallons per month. The 5% was necessary to
fully fund all revenue requirements.
The City of Fowler funds its water service provisions through 2 major accounts, The Enterprise Fund
Account and Special Revenue which includes the following:
• Water Fund 500 –It is funded by user rates and accounts for delivery of clean and safe drinking
water, regulatory monitoring and compliance, and associated expenditures to maintain the City’s
public water distribution system in operation. The Water Fund includes funding for Capital
improvement. It was established to serve as an ongoing capital set aside for Water Division capital
projects. Furthermore, currently funding for day-to-day operational expenditures such as salaries,
supplies, Vehicles, and fuel are comingled with funds that are needed for longer term uses, such
as equipment/facility maintenance and/or replacement and large-scale infrastructure
rehabilitation projects.
• Water Well Maintenance 501 – The fees in this fund are charged to new development to
supplement the cost of new water infrastructure such as new Water Wells or to upsize water
mains. This is funded by interest income.
• Groundwater Recharge CID (“SKGSA”) 502 – The fees in this fund are charged to new development
to include the acquisition and development of recharge basins and conveyance pipelines and
facilities. The Budget includes transfer of funds to Groundwater CID to offset expenses for The
Groundwater implementation projects for the Groundwater Sustainability Plan, as required by
SGMA and Department of Water Resources in an effort to reach sustainability.
• TCP Fund 503 – This fund was established from a litigation settlement. This fund is to be used for
the design and construction of a new water treatment facility. This budget will fund continued
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 103 City of Fowler
improvements for Well #7 treatment plan. It included $269k for engineering design, and $1.2
million for Well #7 treatment plant.
• AB1600-Water – The fees in this fund are charged to new developments to supplement the cost
of new water facilities in the city. This will fund the Water Master Plan, Well #4 Hydro Tank
Replacement, Well #5 Shade Structure, Generator, and A/C, Well #6 Flow Meter and Shade
Structure, Equipment- A/C, Water Valve Replacement and Flow Meter.
The responsibilities for the water system are shared between the Public Works employees – billing &
collection, maintenance & operation, handled respectively by Administrative Services and Public Works.
The budget document reflects working capital for the fund balance. Only activities directly related to the
City’s water system may be accounted for in this fund.
According to the City’s budget for FY 2025-26, the Public Works Department oversees a total budget of
$1,628,067 for the City’s Public Works services. For FY 2025-26, the total Water Service revenues are
anticipated to amount to $1,879,896. The Water Division also receives additional revenues from the
following funds: AB1600-Water fund with a projected revenue of $140,000
For the same year, the total water service expenditure is anticipated to amount to $2,620,516.
Water Division Staffing
The City employs four (4) full-time equivalent staff in the Water Division when fully staffed. The following
bullet points summarize the Water Division’s personnel and their responsibilities.
• Lead Water Operator (1): Responsible for the maintenance, repair, and construction of City water
lines.
• Water Operator I (1): Responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of City facilities
and water system facilities.
• Water Operator in Training (2)
The City’s water system requires that the chief operator be certified at a T2 level for treatment and a D3
level for distribution. The City’s lead operator is certified at a T2, and four operators are certified at D3,
which meets the system’s certification requirements.
Infrastructure Needs
Between 2024 and 2025, total projected Community Investment Program (CIP) expenditures for the
Water Division are approximately $8,155,479. The CIP expenditures are summarized in the following
categories along with the total expenditure for each category:
1. Fire Hydrant & Water Valve Replacement (Impact Fee) ($227,500)
2. Fire Hydrant Replacement ($72,600)
3. Water Valve Replacement (Impact fee) ($117,000)
4. Water Meter Replacement ($20,000)
5. Water Services Replacement ($130,000)
6. EPA FY23 Appropriation Act – Water System Interconnection ($943,877)
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 104 City of Fowler
7. New Water Well #9 ($3,332,425)
8. Water Well #7 TCP Plant ($2,148,132)
9. Water Tower Rehabilitation ($20,000)
10. Annual contributions Per SGMA/SKGSA ($405,216)
11. Water Master Plan (Impact Fee) ($150,000)
12. Water Master Plan ($100,000)
13. Water System GIS Database ($50,000)
14. Recycled Water Feasibility Study ($125,000)
15. Well 4 Deferred Maintenance – Hydro Tank Replacement (Impact Fee) ($72,000)
16. Well 4 Deferred Maintenance – Hydro Tank Replacement ($48,000)
17. Well 5 Deferred Maintenance – Shade Structure, Generator, A/C (Impact Fee) ($87,000)
18. Well 5 Deferred Maintenance – Shade Structure, Generator, A/C ($58,000)
19. Well 6 Deferred Maintenance – Flow Meter, Shade Structure, A/C (Impact Fee) ($33,000)
20. Well 6 Deferred Maintenance – Flow Meter, Shade Structure, A/C ($15,729)
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 105 City of Fowler
13. Public Transportation Services
The City does not directly provide public transportation services; however, the City is a member agency
in the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (“FCRTA”). FCRTA operates through an inter-agency service
agreement to provide public transportation to the rural areas of Fresno County.75 Through its
membership, FCRTA also provides funding for the Reedley Transit program.
FCRTA is a Joint Powers Agency (“JPA”) established in 1972 to implement public transit services within
Fresno County. FCRTA is structured as a joint-powers authority, with representation from cities and the
County. The governing board of the FCRTA consists of one Fresno County Supervisor and a mayor or
councilperson from each of the cities that are part of the JPA. The County representative gets six votes
while city representatives get one vote each, for a total of 19 votes. The board appoints a general
manager of the organization responsible for managing FCRTA’s operation. Through 25 transit
subsystems, FCRTA serves the rural transit needs throughout Fresno County, and also provides service to
the adjacent counties of Kings, Tulare, and Madera.
FCRTA’s Inter-City Transit Kingsburg-Reedley route makes two connections stop in the City of Fowler.
FCRTA bus routes operate a scheduled route 247 days a year. The transportation service operates daily
round trips, Monday through Friday; no service is provided on Saturdays, Sundays, or major holidays.
The following sections summarize public transportation within Fowler.
Transit Routes
FCRTA operates 26 transit subsystems, 18 fixed routes, six days a week using a fleet inventory of 100
vehicles. There are two FCRTA transit routes that travel through the City of Fowler. FCRTA’s Inter-Transit
line connects Reedley residents to neighboring communities and the greater Fresno County area. These
routes depart and drop off riders at the two listed stations:
• Bus Shelter – 7th Street & Merced Street
• Adventist Health/Valley Children’s Bus Shelter – Across W. Fresno Street from 230 S. 9th
Street, Fowler CA
Inter-City Transit Kingsburg-Reedley Route
Kingsburg-Reedley Inter-City Transit makes one round trip in the morning and two round trips in the
afternoon that serve the residents of Reedley, Kingsburg, Fowler, Parlier, and Fowler. This transit route has
scheduled their departures from Fowler Bus Shelter and the Adventist Health/Valley Children’s Bus Shelter to
coordinate with the needs and times of the public.
As portrayed in Figure 13-1, departures to Parlier/Reedley occur twice in the morning and once in the afternoon,
while departures to Selma/Kingsburg occur once in the morning and twice in the afternoon. The fixed route
inter-city service fares for all members of the public is $2.25 per one-way trip ($4.50 for round trip) to
Reedley and $1.50 per one-way trip ($3.00 for round trip) to Kingsburg.76 Service is provided by two
twenty-two passenger, wheelchair accessible, modified vans.
75 Fresno County Rural Transit Agency, About Us.
76 Fresno County Rural Transit Agency, Kingsburg-Reedley Route Guide. Website: https://www.ruraltransit.org/wp-
content/uploads/2024/02/Kingsburg_Reedley.pdf
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 106 City of Fowler
Figure 13-1. Inter-City Kingsburg-Reedley Route Departures from the City of Fowler
Bus Station Morning Afternoon
Departures to Parlier & Reedley
Fowler Bus Shelter 7:22 AM 11:23 AM 2:53 PM
Adventist Health/Valley Children’s Bus 7:29 AM 11:30 AM 3:00 PM
Shelter
Departures to Selma & Kingsburg
Fowler Bus Shelter 9:45 AM 12:50 PM 4:15 PM
Adventist Health/Valley Children’s Bus 9:52 AM 12:57 PM 4:22 PM
Shelter
Source: Fresno County Rural Transit Agency
Inter-City Transit Southeast Route
The Southeast Route provides two morning round trips and one afternoon trip to Fresno, serving the
residents of Kingsburg, Selma, Fowler, and Fresno. Similar to the Kingsburg-Reedley transit route, the
scheduled departures occur from two main locations: the Fowler Bus Shelter at 7th Street and Merced
Street, and the Adventist Health/Valley Children’s Bus Shelter. Departures from the Fowler Bus Shelter
occur at 7:28 a.m., 10:23 a.m., and 3:28 p.m., with the Adventist Health/Valley Children’s Bus Shelter
departures following five minutes after. The fixed-route fare is $1.25 for a one-way trip and $2.25 for a
round trip between Fowler and Fresno, applicable to all members of the public and discounts available
for certain parties.77
Fowler Transit Subsystem
The FCRTA currently funds the transit program in Fowler effective July 1, 2019. According to the FCRTA
website, subsystem Fowler Transit provides local in-city demand responsive service Monday through
Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. With reservation-based, demand
responsive services, riders call their local transit provider, identify their location, desired destination and
departure time. A driver is then dispatched to pick-up and transport the patron. Demand responsive
service is limited to within the rural transit service area during regular service hours.
According to the FCRTA website, passenger fares are subsidized to be reasonable and encourage
frequent trips. One-way fares for service within a community range from 50 cents to 75 cents for the
general public. Senior citizens, disabled, and veterans ride for free on intra-city buses.
Fares for inter-city service are generally half the price of fares granted to common carriers by the
California Public Utilities Commission. They range from 75 cents to $6.00 per one-way trip, depending
on distance traveled. Fares may be subject to change.
77 Fresno County Rural Transit Agency, Inter-City Transit Southeast. Website: https://www.ruraltransit.org/wp-
content/uploads/2024/06/Southeast-Transit.pdf
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 107 City of Fowler
Public Transit Demand
The current ridership trend, based upon data provided by FCRTA, indicates that the demand for transit
services remains constant. According to FCRTA’s Short Range Transit Plan for the Rural Fresno County
Area 2026-2030, Fowler Transit's ridership increased 139 passengers in FY 2023-24, representing a 9.40
percent change from the previous FY 2022-23.78
Infrastructure and Facilities
FCRTA is the agency responsible for providing metropolitan transit service for the City and for
implementing short and long-range transit plans, making recommendations, and addressing
infrastructure needs. FCRTA’s infrastructure investments are reflective of the decisions made by the
JPA, as a whole.
FCRTA presently operates a fleet of 130 vehicles, of which 43 are powered by CNG, 36 are powered by
electric batteries, 50 are powered by unleaded gasoline, and one is a non-motorized trailer. The City’s
fleet and facilities consist of 100 buses, 11 electric vans and buses, 45 CNG vehicles, 44 gasoline vehicles,
a maintenance facility, and a transit center. FCRTA does not operate any diesel power vehicles.
FCRTA’s maintenance facility, located at 1870 Dockery Selma, CA, consists of 4,500 square feet and can
accommodate up to 8-10 buses. The FCRTA is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Inter-
City Transit Buses. FCRTA has 44 full-time equivalent (“FTE”) employees that range from the agency’s
administration to bus route drives. Some specified services are contracted with private and public
operators. FCRTA office is located within the Council of Fresno County Governments (“Fresno COG”)
office in Fresno. Fresno COG staff perform the planning and finance functions of the FCRTA. In each of
the local services, there is an administrative role played by a transit supervisor employed by the
contracting transit provider. In general, a total of 43.6 FTE operating staff (both public and contract) are
required to fully administer and operate the FCRTA systems.
FCRTA is in the process of investing in additional zero emission vehicles. All new buses have low floors,
outfitted with ramps for easy access by passengers who use mobility devices, or have difficulty climbing
stairs. All FCRTA buses have bike racks that can hold at least two bicycles at a time. Future bus
procurements will include three position bike racks.
FCRTA owns and maintains two bus stops, two bus signs, and two benches in the City of Fowler. The
Fowler Transit Dial-A-Ride program maintains a total of four vans, which are maintained and serviced by
FCRTA. The preventative maintenance consists of a regular tune-up of vehicles to ensure maximum
performance and fuel economy are obtained. Gasoline tune-ups are performed at per factory month or
per factory of mile intervals.
Due to age and usage, periodic rehabilitation of transit amenities has been necessary to maintain an
attractive, safe, and functional condition. Examples of rehabilitation include sidewalk repair, painting
and repair of structures, and replacement of benches and trash receptacles.
78 Short Range Transit Plan for the Rural Fresno County Area 2026-2030, page 78. Website: https://www.ruraltransit.org/wp-
content/uploads/2025/05/SRTP-FCRTA-2026-2030-.pdf
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 108 City of Fowler
Passenger amenities such as shelters, benches, information signs, and trash receptacles are provided at
many transit stops. Transit stop improvements are also provided by private developers as conditions of
project approval by the City.
Historically, FCRTA has prioritized updating aging vehicles and equipment through its Capital Budget.
Recently, evolving requirements have shifted the focus toward investing in electric vehicles (EVs), EV
chargers, and related charging infrastructure. In addition, FCRTA has procured a range of advanced
technologies, including Level 2 and Level 3 EV chargers, and solar-powered Level 2 Resiliency Hubs.
Moreover, they have invested in a Micro Battery Storage and an Energy Management System. The
majority of this technology and equipment will be housed and operated at the new FCRTA Maintenance
facility, alongside most of the agency’s fleet.79
Service Adequacy
One of the primary challenges FCRTA has faced in recent years has been driven in large part by trying to
keep up with the demand at peak times. Lack of demand on slower days also proved to be a challenge for
drivers. Both factors have contributed to ridership inconsistency throughout the past year as well.
This section reviews indicators of service adequacy with respect to Fowler Transit only. FCRTA uses
several performance measures to assess system operating reliability. Key indicators are passengers per
revenue hour, total operating expense per passenger, and total operating expense per revenue hour.
Passengers per revenue hour measure the degree of consumption of public transportation services in
relation to the amount of service available, which can be indicative of the level of service effectiveness
and ability to meet customer needs. Ridership in Fowler Transit has declined in recent years, leading to
the discontinuation of its own dedicated bus. However, FCRTA recommends the City continues to
monitor efficiency and effectiveness to ensure Fowler residents are receiving adequate services.
The operating cost per passenger is based on how much cost is incurred per unit of travel, which is one
measure of cost effectiveness of transportation services, or the value obtained for the dollars invested
in transit. Fowler Transit operating costs averaged $51.72 (2024) per passenger. According to FCRTA’s
Short Range Transit Plan for the Rural Fresno County Area 2026-2030, the system average cost per
passenger was $31.69.80
Operating cost per revenue hour measures how much cost is incurred per unit of service, which is an
indicator of cost efficiency of services. By having knowledge of the cost structure on different routes,
costs can be kept as low as possible while meeting safety and operating rules.
Fowler Transit spent approximately $212.92 (2024) per revenue hour. Comparable transit agencies
averaged $101.18 in expenses per revenue hour. Fowler Transit’s higher operating cost per revenue
may be a function of greater service frequency than other providers.
FCRTA partners with the Fowler Police Department to deliver system wide protection. Uniformed patrol
officers will do random checks of the vehicles. Fowler Transit also participates in video policing
throughout the City with surveillance cameras aboard the buses. Fowler Transit completed installation
on board all of its buses, and the initiative is serving as a deterrent to vandalism and other crimes.
79 Ibid.
80 Short Range Transit Plan for the Rural Fresno County Area 2026-2030, page 66.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 109 City of Fowler
Although the FCRTA is the agency responsible for providing intra-city demand responsive transit service
and for implementing short and long-range transit plan recommendations, its actions may be affected
by policies and programs of external agencies. These agencies include the Federal Transit Administration
(FTA) and the State of California Transportation Department (CALTRANS).
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 110 City of Fowler
14. Shared Facilities, Opportunities for Shared Facilities
Future City growth may present additional opportunities for Future City growth may present additional
opportunities for sharing of public facilities to offset costs, promote greater efficiencies, and improved
economies of scale in provisions of municipal services.
As previously noted in this MSR, the City has joint functions such as mutual aid/request agreements and
share facilities with other local agencies located in the County of Fresno. Nonetheless, if future shared
facilities were to be sought after then the following local agencies listed below may provide potential
opportunities to create additional shared facilities:
Selma-Kingsburg-Fowler County Sanitation District
Formed in 1971, SKF was established under the County Sanitation District Act to provide
wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal services for the cities of Selma, Kingsburg, and Fowler.
Consolidated Irrigation District
Formed in 1921, to secure Kings River water for irrigation delivery and groundwater recharge within the
District. In addition to irrigation, the district is responsible for groundwater management,
recharge management, water rights protection, repair and replacing infrastructure, and ensuring
regulatory compliance with state law.
Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District
Formed in 1946, to provide relief from the nuisance of biting mosquitoes and to protect the public
from the threat of mosquito-borne diseases, such as encephalitis and malaria.
County of Fresno
The County of Fresno provides countywide services including elections, voter registration,
law enforcements, jails, vital records, property records, tax collection, public health and social
services. In addition, the County serves as the local land use authority for all unincorporated areas
located outside the City and within the Reedley SOI.
County of Fresno, Public Library
Operates a branch library within the City of Fowler and is part of the San Joaquin Valley Library System.
This 8,660 sq ft facility provides public computers and Wi-Fi, a meeting room (up to 50 people),
Courtyard performance area, book drop area on the west side, recycling site for batteries and
fluorescent lights. The library hosts Storytime, family craft nights, workshops, summer lunch and
literacy programs for children.
Fresno County Fire Protection District
Formed in 1994, as the result of the consolidation of the Mid Valley Fire Protection and the Westside
Fire Protection Districts. The District provides fire prevention and suppression, emergency medical
response, search and rescue, and emergency dispatch services. It also conducts building permits and
inspections.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 111 City of Fowler
Fowler Unified School District
FUSD is the local education provider in the Fowler area, it consists of 9 school campuses in configurations
that include TK to 5th grade, 6th to 8th grade, middle school, and 9th to 12th grade high school campuses.
Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA)
Established in 1979, the FCRTA is the public transportation provider for 13 rural cities throughout Fresno
County including Coalinga, Firebaugh, Fowler, Huron, Kerman, Kingsburg, Mendota, Orange Cove, Parlier,
Reedley, Sanger, San Joaquin, Selma and 39 unincorporated communities.
Kings River Conservation District
Formed in 1951, to provide for planning of flood protection, management of water, including essential
flood control and groundwater management services. Kings River Conservation District cooperates with
other agencies to achieve a balanced and high-quality water supply, provides on-farm support in efficient
water conservation practices, and develops power resources for the public good.
Fowler Cemetery District
Formed in 1933 to provide burial and interment of human remains to meet the cultural, economic,
religious, and social needs within the Fowler area. The District is an public special district governed by a
five-member board of trustees.
San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District
Formed in 1992, the public health agency has focuses to improve the health and quality of life through
monitoring and regulating air quality in the San Joaquin Valley, including the City of Fowler.
West Fresno County Red Scale Protective District
Formed in 1958, to implement control measures to assist growers with pest exclusion, eradication efforts,
support, and the testing and mapping of citrus pests. The District has no employees. It contracts for
secretarial support, and the testing and mapping of citrus pests.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 112 City of Fowler
15. Municipal Service Review Determinations
LAFCo has prepared this MSR consistent with GC sec. 56430 in order to update the Fowler SOI in
accordance with GC sec. 56425. The purpose of the service review is to get a “big picture” of the public
services provided by a local agency, determine service needs, and make recommendations in order to
promote the orderly development of local agencies.
The MSR was prepared in conjunction with the City’s application (LAFCo file No. MSR-24-03 and RSOI-214) to
LAFCo, requesting the Commission to expand the Fowler SOI and add approximately 1,189.5 acres to
the east and south of the City. The majority of the land in the affected territory will continue to
operate as agricultural related uses and/or rural residential within the updated Fowler SOI until
such time as development is proposed. The SOI update would add new territory that is planned for
urban uses by the 2040 Fowler General Plan Update.
In summary, the service review found that the City is efficiently providing its various municipal services
within its corporate boundaries, and has adequate capacity, phased infrastructure improvement
programs, and adequate planning efforts by type of service to promote planned growth and development
within the proposed Fowler SOI update.
LAFCo staff reviewed the proposed Fowler SOI update in light of the data collected during the MSR process,
communicated with City representatives, reviewed the 2040 Fowler General Plan, the Fowler General Plan
certified Final Environmental Impact Report, the Fowler SOI amendment application, the 2024-25 and
2025-26 Fowler Annual Budget, and the approved 2024 County-City Memorandum of Understanding
regarding standards for annexation and development in order to provide the Commission a thorough SOI
update recommendation for its consideration.
Based on the information and analysis in the MSR, this section of the report fulfills the requirements of
Government Code section 56425 and allows LAFCo to update the Fowler SOI, consistent with the written
determinations for the City of Fowler. In determining the sphere of influence of each local agency, the
commission shall consider and prepare a written statement of its determinations with respect to each of
the following pursuant to Government Code Section 56425 (e):
1) The present and planned land uses in the area, including agricultural and open-space lands.
• The City of Fowler adopted and maintains a General Plan. The 2040 Fowler General Plan
establishes its land use foundation through a vision statement and supportive goals and
policies. The General Plan creates policies and provides for the general distribution,
location, and extent of present and future land uses that guide land use decisions that shape
development of the City through year 2040.
• Land uses surrounding the Fowler city limits in both the existing SOI, the proposed SOI, and
the General Plan planning area are predominantly in active agricultural operations.
• The focus of the 2040 Fowler General Plan is to balance growth and investment in existing
neighborhoods as well as new growth areas. The General Plan calls for a balance of
residential development between low, medium, and higher density projects. The General
Plan presents strategies to prevent premature loss of prime agricultural lands that surround
Fowler.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 113 City of Fowler
2) The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area.
• The City of Fowler provides a wide array of municipal services within its corporate limits.
Extension of infrastructure and municipal resources would be necessary to accommodate
future urban development within the Fowler SOI update. The City implements its General
Plan, as identified in the MSR, and regularly identifies community service needs in its annual
budget.
• The City of Fowler has established development impact fees, and developer-required
mitigation in the form of infrastructure improvements required from new projects and
similar programs to monitor existing and future public service needs. Development within
the Fowler SOI is required to extend physical infrastructure to individual sites and pay pro-
rata fees for other City services as a condition of project approval to annex into the City. The
physical infrastructure is generally available adjoining the City limits.
3) The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that the agency provides
or is authorized to provide.
• The City demonstrates that it has adequate capacity to provide the necessary municipal
services, as identified in the MSR, to its constituency within its existing incorporated
boundaries. The City of Fowler regularly reviews its service levels and updates its regulatory
service permits; City officials monitor each department’s performance within the City.
4) The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the commission
determines that they are relevant to the agency.
• Not applicable.
5) For an update of a sphere of influence of a city or special district that provides public facilities or
services related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, or structural fire protection, that occurs
pursuant to subdivision (g) on or after July 1, 2012, the present and probable need for those public
facilities and services of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within the existing sphere
of influence.
• LAFCo determines that no territories in the existing and proposed SOI update meet the DUC
criteria as defined by Fresno LAFCo’s Policy 106 and CKH.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 114 City of Fowler
16. Sphere of Influence Update Determinations
The LAFCo has prepared this MSR for the City of Fowler in accordance with Government Code section
56430. State law requires LAFCos to identify and evaluate public services provided by the City and possible
changes to the City SOI. The following provides LAFCo’s written statement of its determinations with
respect to each of the following seven topics:
1)Growth and population projections for the affected area.
• The City of Fowler has experienced steady growth over the past thirty years and anticipates this
will continue through the foreseeable future. Fowler’s population is 7,367 as of 2024, a 2.51%
growth rate based on years 2021-2024.
• The 2040 Fowler General Plan update was adopted by the City Council in April 2023. The General
Plan accounts for the City’s growth using a 17-year planning horizon, through year 2040. The
General Plan establishes its land use foundation through a vision that was created through
cooperative efforts involving the City Council, Planning Commission, City staff, and the
community.
2) The location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within or
contiguous to the sphere of influence.
• According to LAFCo’s database there are no DUCs within Fowler’s SOI nor within one mile of the
adopted SOI boundaries.
3) Present and planned capacity of public facilities, adequacy of public services, and infrastructure needs
or deficiencies including needs or deficiencies related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, and
structural fire protection in any disadvantaged, unincorporated communities within or contiguous to
the sphere of influence.
• The 2040 Fowler General Plan provides the vision and guidance for capital improvements and
the development of city infrastructure, is used to create development impact fees, and provides
the basis for environmental analysis of the growth of the City.
• Based on evidence analyzed by LAFCo staff, city services and services provided to the City by
other agencies appear adequate to support planned growth and development.
4)Financial ability of agencies to provide services.
• The Fowler Municipal Code directs the City Manager to prepare a balanced budget and proposed
salary plan, outlining anticipated revenues and expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year and
submitting these to the City Council.
• For the City of Fowler FY 2025-26, citywide revenues are projected to be $21,009,294. Citywide
expenditures are projected to be $41,738,509. General fund revenues are projected to be
$7,584,445, representing 36% of the citywide revenue budget. General fund expenditures are
projected to be $7,547,951, resulting in a balanced budget with a surplus of $36,494. Special
revenue funds revenues are projected to be $11,486,953 and represent 55% of citywide
revenue. Expenses are projected at $29,016,694. Enterprise fund revenues are projected to be
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 115 City of Fowler
$1,937,896 and represent 9% of the citywide revenue. Expenses are projected to be
$5,173,864.81
• The Fowler General Plan establishes the foundation for most of the Council's budgeting decisions
in terms of capital facilities, staffing, programs, utility infrastructure, and levels of service.
Fowler’s budget and financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles.
• The City maintains individual fund accounts that fund City services and activities. The City’s
budget provides funding for six major departments: City Attorney, City Manager, Human
Resources, City Clerk, Community Services Administrative Services, Community Development,
Police, and Public Works.
• The City has established fiscal policies that govern its financial administration. The City’s financial
policies are designated to protect the City’s assets, provide stability in its funding base, and
ensure that adequate funding resources are secured for upcoming year.
5)Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities.
• LAFCo notes that the geographic distance between Fowler and other neighboring agencies is
large enough that identifying opportunities beyond the existing shared facilities are limited.
• The City is a member agency the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency. Through its membership,
the Fresno County Rural Transit Agency provides funding for the Fowler Transit Program.
• The Fowler Police Department maintains automatic and mutual aid agreements for policing
services with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and the California Highway Patrol.
6) Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure and operational
efficiencies.
• Fowler is a general law city with a “council-manager” form of government. The city is governed
by a five-member City Council and also a five-member Planning Commission elected by district
and accountable to the residents of the City.
• The City Council appoints a city manager who is responsible to oversee the daily operations of
the City. The Council works closely with the City Manager, various citizen advisory commissions
and committees, and solicits public comments from its residents to make decisions and
recommendations to City Council on behalf of its citizens.
• The Fowler City Council carries out its responsibilities through the implementation of the Fowler
General Plan Fowler Municipal Code, and other state and federal laws.
• The City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers located at 128 S. 5th Street Fowler, CA 93625. The Planning Commission
regularly meets on the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers
81 City of Fowler Adopted Budget 2025-26, page 2.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 116 City of Fowler
located at 128 S. 5th Street, Fowler, CA 93625. Meetings are noticed and consistent with Brown
Act requirements, which include posting meeting information in public places 72 hours prior to
each scheduled meeting.
• The City’s website provides City Council and Planning Commission meeting agendas, and copies
of the minutes and related staff reports. Agendas & Minutes – City of Fowler (fowlercity.org).
• The City delivers municipal services with a combination of staff and contracts with other
agencies. The City currently employs a total of 39 full-time and 7 part-time personnel assigned
to the various City departments.
• Under City Policy, each full-time employee is required to participate in ongoing training and
education at a minimum of one training course every four months to stay current with industry
trends. Mandatory training topics for certain employees include anti-harassment and anti-
discrimination, ethics, and sexual harassment.
7)Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by commission policy.
• LAFCO has reviewed its local policies and there are no other pertinent matters.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 117 City of Fowler
17. Recommendations
In consideration of information gathered and evaluated in this Municipal Service Review, it is
recommended that the Commission:
1. Receive this report and any public testimony regarding the proposed Municipal Service Review
and proposed sphere of influence update.
2. Find that the Municipal Service Review is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15306 (Information Collection).
3. Approve the recommended Municipal Service Review determinations, together with any changes
deemed appropriate.
4. Approve the recommended sphere of influence update determinations, together with any
changes deemed appropriate.
5. Find that as a Responsible Agency, Fresno LAFCo considered the certified 2040 Fowler General
Update EIR (SCH No. 2021110053) for its review and update of the Fowler SOI update, and
LAFCo anticipates that future urban development within the affected area would be developed as
contemplated in the City’s certified General Plan Update EIR.
6. Determine that the proposed Fowler SOI update is consistent with the 2040 Fowler General Plan
EIR has been adequately considered for the proposed Fowler SOI expansion.
7. Revise the Fowler SOI to include approximately 1,189.5 acres in three areas. The northeast area
is 80 acres, the south side area is 412.5 acres, and the west side area is 697 acres.
8. Amend the City of Fowler General Plan Land Use Map to accurately reflect the city’s official
boundaries, ensuring consistency with the city limits established by LAFCo and resolving the
existing mapping discrepancy.
9. Continue enhancing its website by expanding access to essential public information and ensuring
that residents and agencies can easily locate and utilize available resources.
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 118 City of Fowler
16. Acknowledgements
This Municipal Service Review and sphere of influence update was prepared by Fresno LAFCo.
Supporting documentation was made available through the effective partnership with the City of Fowler
and support from the City’s planning consultant Provost and Pritchard for providing information,
supporting documents, and their valuable assistance in the development of this MSR update for the City
of Fowler.
Available Documentation – documents used for the preparation of this report consist of public records
and are available at the Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission Office located at:
Fresno Local Agency Formation Commission
1401 Fulton St. Suite 800
Fresno, CA 93721
The Municipal Service Review is available on Fresno LAFCo’s website:
http://www.fresnolafco.org/MSR.asp
https://fresnocounty.sharepoint.com/sites/LAFCo/SharedFiles/LAFCo Projects/Cities/Fowler/R_USOI/SOI/2024 MSR Update/
Draft Fowler MSR 2026.pdf
MSR/Sphere of Influence Update 119 City of Fowler