Document Palmdale_doc_d06e3e7018

CITY OF PALMDALE LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA RESOLUTION NO. 93-10 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALMDALE CERTIFYING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE DRAFT 1993 GENERAL PLAN, ADOPTING SAID GENERAL PLAN AND REPEALING IN THEIR ENTIRETY RESOLUTION NOS. 76-12, 85-115 AND 88-93 PERTAINING TO THE CURRENT ADOPTED GENERAL PLAN ELEMENTS, AND ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO WHEREAS, Pursuant to Section 65300 of the State Planning and Zoning Law (Division 1 of Title 7 of the California Government Code), the City of Palmdale has prepared a Draft General Plan to provide comprehensive, long-range policy guidelines for future growth and development which incorporates the mandated elements, including Land Use, Circulation, Noise, Housing, Public Services, Safety, and Environmental Resources, and each element includes a profile report containing baseline data, a statement of issues, goals, objectives, policies, and implementation programs as required by State law; and WHEREAS, An initial study was completed for the project by the Planning Department, pursuant to Section 15063 of the State CEQA Guidelines on November 10, 1987, which identified that there was substantial evidence that the project may have a significant impact on several environmental resources and public services. Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines 15064 and 15081, a decision was made to prepare an EIR for the project; and WHEREAS, On November 19, 1987, a Notice of Preparation for the EIR was prepared and sent to the State Clearinghouse in the Office of Planning and Research for the State of California and to other responsible agencies; and WHEREAS, A screencheck General Plan and Draft EIR were prepared by a consultant retained and compensated by the City for the purpose of complying with Government Code Sections 65300, et seq. and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), respectively; and WHEREAS, Screencheck copies of the General Plan and Master Environmental Assessment were submitted to the City on March 1990 and September 1990 and copies of the screencheck documents were circulated to various departments and agencies for comment; and WHEREAS, The Planning Commission conducted 23 duly noticed public hearings on the General Plan between the years of 1990 and 1991, held at times and places specified in the public notification for the meeting, in accordance with California Government Code Sections 65355 and 65090, and Public Resources Code Section 21092; and WHEREAS, In 1992, City staff revised the General Plan in response to citizen and Commission input, and to update technical information relating to current conditions; and WHEREAS, The Planning Commission conducted 10 duly noticed public hearings on the revised screencheck elements of the Draft General Plan between the months of March 1992 and July 1992, held at times and places specified in the public notification for those meetings, in accordance with California Government Code Sections 65355 and 65090, and Public Resources Code Section 21092; and ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 2 WHEREAS, The Draft General Plan dated July 27, 1992 was prepared pursuant to Government Code Sections 65300 et seq. and in accordance with General Plan Guidelines promulgated by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research; and WHEREAS, On August 5, 1992, the Draft EIR was completed. Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15085, the City prepared a Notice of Completion of the Draft EIR which was filed with the State Office of Planning and Research on August 6, 1992. The DEIR was circulated to interested agencies between August 10, 1992 and September 23, 1992 for a 45-day comment period pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15087. Comments were received and responses prepared and incorporated into the EIR. A copy of the Final EIR is on file in the office of the Planning Department; and WHEREAS, The City has submitted the proposed General Plan to other public agencies for review as follows: The draft Housing Element was submitted to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for review on August 7, 1992. On October 26, 1992, the Department of Housing and Community Development informed the City by letter that the Housing Element is in compliance with legal requirements. In June 1992, the City submitted the Preservation Amendment to the Housing Element to the Department of Housing and Community Development for review. On August 11, 1992, HCD informed the City by letter that the Preservation Amendment is in compliance with legal requirements. The City consulted with the Division of Mines and Geology of the Department of Conservation and the Office of Emergency Services for the purposes of including information known by and available to the Department and the Office required by Government Code Section 65302 In addition, the proposed Safety Element was submitted to the Division of Mines and Geology for review of seismic safety policies. Comments were received on September 22, 1992 and the Safety Element has been amended in response to these comments and is consistent with their requirements. The proposed General Plan was distributed for review and comment pursuant to Government Code Section 65352 to interested parties including, but not limited to, the City of Lancaster, County of Los Angeles, local school districts, water purveyors, and other interested parties on August 10, 1992. The comments on the proposed General Plan received from these agencies are summarized in Attachment B of the Resolution (Response to Comments). The proposed General Plan was submitted to the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). On October 1, 1992, the Local Assistance and Compliance Committee of SCAG acted to recommend that the Plan was consistent with applicable regional plans including the State Implementation Plan and urged the City to prepare an Air Quality Element and to provide policies to address the phasing of jobs and housing development. The General Plan was forwarded to the Los Angeles County Airport Land Use Commission. The Land Use Element has been found to be consistent with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan pursuant to Government Code Section 65302.3. The Noise Element was prepared consistent with the guidelines established by the Office of Noise Control in the State Department of Health Services. ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 3 The Circulation Element is consistent with the currently applicable draft Congestion Management Plan prepared by the Los Angeles County Transportation Committee. Public input was received from surrounding town councils, property owners and citizen groups during review of the General Plan and the City incorporated many of the suggestions and recommendations into the Draft General Plan; and WHEREAS, The Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing on the Draft General Plan and Draft EIR on October 22, 1992, held at a time and place specified in the public notification for the meeting, in accordance with California Government Code Sections 65355 and 65090, and Public Resources Code Section 21092. At that meeting, the Planning Commission by a vote of three in favor, zero against, and two absent, approved Planning Commission Resolution 92-64, recommending to the City Council, certification of the EIR pertaining to the General Plan and adoption of the General Plan; and WHEREAS, The City Council conducted duly noticed public hearings on the Draft General Plan and Draft EIR on November 19, 1992, November 21, 1992, December 9, 1992, December 17, 1992, January 4, 1993, January 11, 1993 and January 25, 1993 and these meetings were held at a time and place specified in the public notification for the meeting in accordance with California Government Code Sections 65355 and 65090, and Public Resources Code Section 21092. NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby found, determined and resolved by the City Council of the City of Palmdale, as follows: SECTION 1. The City Council hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in the Recitals of this Resolution are true and correct. SECTION 2. The City Council hereby finds that the Draft EIR, the comments to the EIR and the responses to those comments have been received by the Council, that the Council has reviewed and considered those documents prior to acting on the General Plan, and finds, pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15090, that the Final EIR has been completed in compliance with CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines and the City's CEQA Guidelines. The City Council also finds that the Council has independently reviewed and analyzed the EIR and that the EIR reflects the independent judgement of the City Council. SECTION 3. The City Council finds that the additional information provided in the staff report and any attachments accompanying the EIR does not represent significant new information so as to require recirculation of the EIR pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21092.1. SECTION 4. With respect to the potential significant environmental effects identified in the EIR, the City Council finds as follows: A. DEGRADATION OF AIR QUALITY: The EIR identified that the implementation of the General Plan would result in a significant direct impact, as well as contributing to a larger, significant cumulative impact, to air quality in the Antelope Valley. Development according to the land uses identified on the General Plan Land Use Map would generate mobile source emissions of 35,545 lbs/day of Total Organic Compounds; 354,256 lbs/day of Carbon Monoxide; 68,172 lbs/day of Nitrogen Oxides; 274,983 lbs/day of 10-micron Particulate Material; and 7,731 lbs/day of Sulfur Oxides. In addition, significant emissions would be generated by stationary sources of emissions such as ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 4 industrial uses; by generation of dust from constructior activities; by application of paints and asphalt; by combustion of natural gas; as well as a number of other sources. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which may avoid or substantially lessen this potentially significant environmental effect. The mitigation measures that will be implemented with respect to such effect include providing for a balanced residential community, which will minimize the need for and the length of vehicle trips to places of employment and other commercial uses; providing for alternative modes of transportation, including the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation systems; encouraging the use of public transportation including the development of public transit facilities; and implementing measures to increase the capacity and service levels of the City's streets and highways. In addition, energy-saving measures will be required to be incorporated into new developments. In spite of the application of these mitigation measures, the EIR determined that total emissions load resulting from development permitted by the General Plan will exceed the thresholds recommended by the South Coast Air Quality Management District for determining significant air quality impacts. B. IMPACTS TO BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES: Development of the planning area will result in significant direct and cumulative impacts to existing biological resources. These impacts will include the loss of Joshua trees and other native vegetation, destruction of habitat which supports rare and endangered species, disruption of wildlife movement corridors, and the introduction of imported plant and animal species. Since development is proposed for the majority of the Planning Area, most biological resources that are currently present will be lost as buildout of the community occurs. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which lessen this potentially significant environmental effect. The mitigation measures that will be implemented with respect to biological resources include designating open space areas and significant ecological areas within the General Plan. Additionally, individual projects will be evaluated for their potential impacts to wildlife habitats. Although General Plan policies will protect significant ecological areas and areas designated for open space, these mitigation measures will not reduce impacts to biological resources to less than significant levels. C. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS TO WATER RESOURCES: The EIR identified that future development in the Antelope Valley would generate a demand for 293.43 million gallons of water per day. Mitigation measures include the encouragement of water conservation and recharge programs, and the pursuit of additional/import water from all available resources. In spite of the application of these mitigation measures, the EIR concluded that cumulative impacts to water resources could be significant. D. IMPACTS DUE TO LOSS OF OPEN SPACE: The General Plan designates the majority of the planning area for urban uses. Since most of this area is presently vacant, development will replace open space throughout the planning area. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen this potentially significant environmental effect. The mitigation measures that will be implemented with respect to loss of open space include policies supporting transfer of development rights to create opezi space areas and by designating environmentally sensitive areas. In addition, implementation of hillside development regulations will encourage preservation of additional open space. The loss of this open space is considered an unavoidable significant impact that will occur with implementation of the proposed plan. ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 5 E. SIGNIFICANT RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS: Due to the proximity of the San Andreas Fault Zone, severe seismic shaking, possible ground rupture, liquefaction and other related seismic hazards could occur in the event of a major earthquake. These conditions have the potential to cause significant damage throughout the planning area. Changes or alterations have been required to lessen the potentially significant environmental impact. The mitigation measures include the requirement of geotechnical investigations, strengthening of structures/slabs adjacent to fault lines and requiring setbacks from fault lines as delineated on the Hazards Overlay Map. Although the impact from seismic hazards can be reduced, the potential impacts can not be reduced to less than significant levels. F. IMPACTS FROM FUTURE JOBS/HOUSING IMBALANCE: The General Plan designates a large portion of the planning area for commercial and industrial development. At buildout, the commercial and industrial sectors could generate over 600,000 jobs. With a potential housing capacity of 130,000 dwelling units under General Plan buildout, the planning area's jobs/housing balance could be as high as 4.3 jobs/dwelling unit. This jobs-rich situation could create significant traffic and air quality impacts by drawing employees from the surrounding areas, if development is not managed to coordinate jobs development with housing development. Therefore, significant impacts are anticipated. G. SIGNIFICANT TRAFFIC IMPACTS AT ELEVEN (11) ROADWAY LINKS: Buildout of the proposed land use plan would generate as many as 3.5 million vehicle trips daily. The circulation plan has been designed to accommodate the bulk of these trips; out of 260 roadway links analyzed, only 11 were expected to exceed acceptable levels of service. However, even with implementation of transportation demand management programs, those items listed in paragraph A above and the incorporation of policies requiring adequate infrastructure prior to development approval, the levels of service on these eleven roadway links can not be improved to acceptable levels. Therefore, this represents a significant traffic impact. SECTION 5. With respect to the significant impacts included in Sections A. through G. that cannot be mitigated to a level of insignificance, the City Council finds, pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081(c), that the benefits of adopting and implementing the General Plan as specified within Section 6. below outweigh the unavoidable impacts associated with the implementation of the General Plan. SECTION 6. The City Council finds that individual and cumulative adverse impacts generated by the project will be mitigated to the extent feasible through the Mitigation Measures as contained in the Environmental Impact Report. Irrespective of these measures, the City Council finds that some impacts cannot be feasibly mitigated to a level of insignificance. In addition, the City Council finds that the Project may result in significant individual or cumulative impacts which have not been identified at this time. The City Council finds that the benefits provided by the project, as contained in the General Plan, will outweigh any adverse impacts caused by the project. These benefits are determined by the City Council to include the following: 1. The General Plan will promote the development of diverse housing stock able to provide housing opportunities for a variety of income groups. ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 6 2. The General Plan includes policies which ensure the protection of public safety including but not limited to noise, seismic safety, and crime. 3. The development of the commercial and industrial areas under General Plan buildout will result in the creation of approximately 600,000 permanent jobs and numerous construction jobs which will contribute to the expansion and improvement of the economy of the Antelope Valley. 4. The General Plan will provide for orderly, functional, balanced growth throughout the community, ensuring that required infrastructure and public services are present to serve proposed development. 5. The land use plan reserves land for public uses including recreation, community and public facilities, and schools. 6. The plan contains policies aimed at preserving open space areas, protecting significant ecological resources and ecosystems, preserving hillside areas, protecting historical and cultural resources, conserving groundwater resources, and protecting air and water quality, so as to preserve and enhance the environment for present and future generations. 7. The plan contains policies mineral resource areas and continued use. 8. The General Plan contains Circulation which will ensure and sizing for major streets area. for the protection of provisions for their a Master Plan for adequate service levels throughout the planning 9. The General Plan contains policies which will encourage redevelopment of the downtown area and development of a variety of industrial projects within the City. SECTION 7. The City Council has reviewed and considered the alternatives to the project discussed in the LIR. Those alternatives are: a "No Project" alternative (page 9-3); an "Existing General Plan " alternative (page 9-15); a "Low Density Land Use Plan" alternative (page 9-35), an "Urban Boundary" alternative" and; a "Future Update" alternative (page 9-51). With respect to these alternatives to the project, the City Council finds, pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081, that there are economic, social and other considerations of the project that make these alternatives infeasible. Specifically, the City Council finds that the Low Density Land Use alternative is the environmentally superior alternative to the project, but is not feasible as it would limit the City's ability to comply with State housing goals relating to providing housing for all income groups. In addition to the general reasons stated above, the Council specifically finds the following: that alternative "No Project" alternative is not feasible as it would not allow the City to fulfill the goals stated within the General P:lan, does not respond to growth and migration, and does not allow the City to respond to development pressure or to remain economically viable; that alternative 2, "Existing General Plan" alternative is not feasible as impacts associated with development would be substantially the same and none of the ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 7 beneficial goals of the General Plan would be fulfilled, including those policies which relate to social and infrastructural needs of the community; that alternative 3, "Low Density Land Use" alternative (the environmentally superior alternative) is not feasible because this alternative would not allow the City to fulfill the goals stated within the General Plan including those relating to the provision of housing opportunities for all persons and the alternative would discourage industrial expansion and development of industry; that alternative 4, "Urban Boundary" alternative is not feasible as it would not allow the City to fulfill the goals stated within the General Plan and the same impacts would likely occur, although on a delayed basis; that alternative 5, "Future Update" alternative is infeasible as impacts associated with development would be substantially the same as under the "Existing General Plan" alternative and none of the beneficial goals of the General Plan would be fulfilled. Additionally, this alternative would not be in compliance with State law which would further reduce the potential to attain the basic objectives of the General Plan. SECTION 8. The City Council hereby certifies the Final EIR pertaining to the 1992 General Plan which consists of the Draft EIR, any comments received, any responses of the City to the comments received, and other materials as set forth in the staff reports dated November 6, 1992, and December 2, 1992 and contained in Exhibits A, B and C of this resolution. SECTION 9. The City Council has reviewed and Considered the Mitigation Monitoring Program contained in Exhibit D of this resolution and finds that the program has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 and that such Program is designed to ensure compliance with the mitigation measures during project implementation. The City Council therefore adopts the Mitigation Monitoring Program for the General Plan EIR. SECTION 10. The City Council has reviewed the Housing Element Guidelines adopted by HCD pursuant to Section 50459 of the Health and Safety Code and finds that the housing goals, objectives, and policies stated in the revised Housing Element are appropriate for the City of Palmdale and will contribute to the attainment of the state housing goal. The City Council further finds that the adoption of the revised Housing Element will aid the City's efforts to assist in the development of housing for all economic and demographic segments of the community and that the Housing Element reflects the requirements of Government Code Section 65583(b). The revised Housing Element has been amended to reflect the comments of the State Department of Housing and Community Development as noted in Section 3(a) of this resolution and complies with the requirements of Article 10.6 of Division 1 of Title 7 of the Government Code. SECTION 11. The City Council hereby adopts the 1993 General Plan consisting of the text of the Land Use, Circulation, Environmental Resources, Public Services, Safety, Noise and Housing Elements, the Land Use Plan, Circulation Plan, Noise Contour and Overlay Maps, as amended by Exhibit E hereto, copies of which are available in the office of the City Clerk. SECTION 12. The City Council hereby repeals in their entirety Resolution Nos. 76-12, 85-115 and 88-93 pertaining to the current adopted general plan elements, and any amendments thereto. ---PAGE BREAK--- Resolution No. 93-10 Page 8 SECTION 13. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution. PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED this 25th day of January, 1993, by the following vote: AYES: Councilmembers Myers Davies, Jones, Root & Mayor Ledford NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None .2 'J JamC,. Ledford, Mayor ATTEST: Victoria L. Denham, City Clerk Approved as to form: City Attorney P/248 ---PAGE BREAK--- EXHIBIT A NOTICE OF COMPLETION ---PAGE BREAK--- CITY OF PALALE OFFICE OF THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: All Interested Parties FROM: Planning Department SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR REVIEW OF THE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN DATE: August 6, 1992 The attached Draft Environmental Impact Report for the City of Palmdale General Plan has been forwarded to you for review and comment. Comments will be received by the Planning Department until 5:00 p.m. on September 21, 1992. Comments should be directed to: Laurie Lile, City of Palmdale Planning Department, 38306 9th Street East, Palmdale, CA 93550 or telephone (805) 272-9613. Copies sent to: City of Palmdale County of Los Anaeles City Council L.A.Co. Dept. of Public Works Planning Commission L.A.Co. Regional Planning City Administrator L.A.Co. Sheriff's Dept. City Departments L.A.Co. Fire Dept. Planning Counter Copy L.A.Co. Sanitation Districts City Hall Counter Copy L.A.Co. Waterworks Districts Library Federal Acencies U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Federal Aviation Administration U.S. Forest Service Department of the Air Force (Plant 42) State Agencies State Clearinghouse Caltrans Lahontan Department of Water Resources Department of Conservation Air Resources Board Department of Fish and Game Dept. of Housing and Community Development School Districts Palmdale School District Westside Union School District A. V. Union High School District Utilities/Services Palmdale Water District AVEK Water Agency A.V. United Water Purveyors Other City of Lancaster City of Santa Clarita SCAG SCAQMD City of L.A. Dept. of Airports Leona Valley Town Council Acton Town Council Agua Dulce Town Council Littlerock Town Council A.V. Archaeological Society San Bernardino County Museum West A.V. Historical Society Palmdale Community Assoc. Building Industry Association ---PAGE BREAK--- Notice of Completion Appenatx F SieCleanngrouse. 6,.5-O6i3 SCH * i2O City of Palmdaie Genera! Plan DEIR LaAgency: City of Palmda.le ContacPerson: Laurie Li1 SectAdets: 38306 9th Street East (805) 272-9613 Paimdale Zip: 30 county: LOS Angeles Pro j.ct Location C uty: Los An gel e 5 City/Nexest Cmuruty: Pa I md a 1 e Cross Sweets: TotalAcres: 111,527 ssessors Parcel No. Suon Twp. Range: Base: Lun2Miles: StateHwy #4'__138 Waterways: California Agueduct ntucal draina;es USAF Plant 42 Railways: Southern Pac. Sis: numerous flocument Typ. CEQA: NOP SuppiemerniSubsequent NEPA: NOl Other: D Iout curnet DEarly Cons EIR (Pnor SCH EA F1r cent Neg Dcc 0 Draft £1.5 C 2Dr*ftE OFONSI Local Action Typ. General Plan Update Specific Plan Rezone C Annewon General Plan mendznen Master Plan Q Prezone 0 RedeveLopment C General Plan Element Planned Utut DeveLopment Use Permat 0 Coastal Permzt Cmmurucy Plan Site Plan Land Division (Subdivision. Pcel Map. Tract Map, etc.) O.v&opm.nt Typ. Residential: Uns Acres Q Water Faciliues: Type O(fice: Sqft. _ Acr Employees______ Q Transpertation C Comznercial Sqft. Acres Employees_____ Minang: C 1ndusial: Sqft. _ Acres mployees_____ Power Type Wags____ C Educaton*l _ Waste Treaanuu , Recreauonal Haus Waste: Z - Proj.ct issu.. Discus..d In Docum.nt Aesthec/Visual A;nculnaral Land Air Quality Aschoiogic(HiatoI*al 0 Coastal Zone DrziriagelAbsorption Eonortuc/iobs Fiscal Z Flood Plain/Flooding Forest Land/Fire Hazard Geologic/Seisrtuc ZMincrals 2 Noise Pop vHousutg Balance Z Public Scrvices/Faciliues Z RecreationiParks Schools/Universities C Sepuc Systems Sewer Capacity Soil EmsionCompacitonIGriding Solid Waits ToziciHazaious Tra(flc1Crvulauon Vegetation Water Qualtty Water Suppty/Croundwaier o Wetland/Ripenan Wildlife 2Lande Cumulative Effts O Other Pr.s.nt Land U../ZonIngIG.n.raI Plan Us. Various 'PvoI.ct D.scription The General Plan for the City of Palmdale covers 1l1527 acres, consisting of the City and its sphere of influence, Located in th Antelope Valley. Elements of the General Plan include: Lana Use,Noise Housing, Circulation, PubLic Services, Environmental. Resou:ces, and Saty. VOTE. Clearinghouse will assign idgnuflcauonnumbcs foralinew 1xojccis. maNoueo(pv::: or prevous draft docwnern) please (ill it n. Revised October Ic; ---PAGE BREAK--- EXHIBIT B COMMENTS ON THE DRAFI' EIR AND THE CITY • S RESPONSE TO THOSE COMMENTS ---PAGE BREAK--- PALMDALE WATER DISTRICT 2005 East Avenue Q - Palrndole, California 93550 Telepnone 947.4111 FAX 947-8604 LESLIE 0. CARTER D,v*s,on I LAGERLOF, SENECAL ORESCsEP WALTER M. DAHLITZ 4torn.ys DIvisio 2 J.B. FREEMAN DMsaon3 JOHN M. SIDWELL Qvt*on 4 NOLAN NEGAARD Dvson 5 - September 18, 1992 Ms. Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 Ninth Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 SUBJECT: DRAFT EIR - PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN Dear Ms. Lile: [©7L 11\' SEP21 !992 lL I have talked to various members of the staff, and it would appear that your consultant has not contacted us in preparing various sections of the City of Palmdale draft General Plan. In the hopes that I can clarify a few points and, by so doing, improve the work your consultants have compiled, I am submitting the following comments on your draft. On Page PS-21, as a factual matter, Los Angeles County Water Works District is not a participant in the California State Water Project, and you might state that "the concern of the Palmdale Water District about the overdraft conditions has led to a legal challenge of Los Angeles County Water Works proposed ground water pumping practices. Palmdale Water District encourages all water suppliers to maximize the use of imported water." On Page PS-22, it is incorrect to say there is a lack of capacity n the aqueduct. The remainder of the statement is correct. On Page P5-25, you go on at some length as to the capacity of the AVEK water treatment plants. It should be recognized that these plants serve a large area including Lancaster, Rosamond, Lake Los Angeles, and so on. There has been no mention of the Palmdale Water District treatment plant. I would suggest a statement to the effect that "the Palmdale Water District water treatment plant was constructed in 1987 for a production rate of 12MG/day and is currently being expanded to a capacity of 30MG/day for the exclusive use of the Palmdale service ---PAGE BREAK--- Ms. Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department September 18, 1992 area. The AVEK plants are committed to service many other areas besides Pal mdale." Further down the page on PS-25, you say that the Palmdale Water District has a direct entitlement of 1,275.6 MGD from the State Water Project. This is entirely incorrect in that it states that we would be able to get over a billion gallons a day. May I suggest you change this statement to "Palmdale Water District has a direct entitlement of 17,300 acre feet per year from the State Water Project, and in addition, receives about 5,000 acre feet a year from the Littlerock creek for processing at its water treatment plant.' On Page PS-27, once again, you have quoted the number of 1,275.6 MGD. This is entirely wrong, and it should state "17,300 acre feet". Also on that page, you say that AVEK encourages the use of imported water to help recharge ground water. The term "recharge" is incorrect and should be "conserve". Further in that paragraph, you say that ground water wells continue to be the main source - 80% of the water supply in Palmdale. I would suggest this to say that "ground water wells continue to be a major source - 50% of the water supply in Palmdale. On Page PS-28, it would be well to check the status of the Water Districts. Both Palmdale Water District and Littlerock Creek Irrigation District are public agencies. Also, the entire text should show that "Littlerock" is one word. On Page PS-29, you have listed a ground water contaminate of nitrates due to septic tank leakage and septic tank age. I think you will find that the leakage and age of septic tanks has very little to do with the creation of nitrates in ground water but that nitrates are a natural by-product of septic tank disposal. On Page 3-197, the total State Water Project entitlement to the Patmdalel planning area is not 158,000 acre feet per year. AVEK has an area of 2,383 square A)D miles, which is 1,525,120 acres. Your report states on Page 1-13 that your planning I area is 111,527 acres This would indicate that Palmdale's share of the AVEKJ entitlement is 10,091 acre feet, not 138,400 acre feet On Page 3-200, it should be noted that our existing water consumption is an] ç'r- average of 760 gpd/du. Also on Page 3-200 in the section on Water Treatment, there is no mention 1 of the Palmdale Water District plant built in 1987 and now being enlarged to 30 1 ? MGD. - ---PAGE BREAK--- Ms. Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department September 18, 1992 On Page 3-203, we pay $68.00 per acre foot of untreated water, and we do } P not buy treated water. On Page 3-204, it should be noted that we now have a 29 MG capacity of] ? treated water storage in twelve reservoirs. On Page 4-173, we are currently using 760 gallons per dwelling per day.] The analysis on page 4-172 should be reworked completely since the Palmdale share of AVEK is only 10,091 acre feet although it might be safe to assume a higher value, such as 15,000 acre feet, which added to the Palmdale Water District 17,300 acre feet and Littlerock Creek Irrigation District 2,300 acre feet would amount to potentially 35,000 acre feet of State Project Water. In addition to that, there is about 5,000 acre feet that can be provided by Littlerock Creek Irrigation District and Palmdale Water District from the Littlerock Dam. The ground water could be estimated at approximately 10,000 acre feet a year for this area. When you look at all these numbers, you can see that we have a great concern about getting the message out to the general public that the water resources are a very limiting factor on the future of the Antelope Valley. With this in mind, the Board of Directors of the Palmdale Water District has contacted San Luis Obispo County in an attempt to acquire the rights to additional State Water Project entitlement. I would sincerely like to spend some time with you so that we might correct any erroneous data and have your document stand up to any challenges that may occur. Please contact me if you have any questions. Very truly yours, General Manager H MF/dtr 1'cx) cc: Board of Directors ---PAGE BREAK--- PALMDALE WATER DISTRICT d .0 D*r.ct.,s lEO. CARTER Oon1 ER M. CM.on 2 . FREEMAN Qlvis,on 3 M. SIDWELL OM.ion 4 AN NEGAARD DMson 5 2005 East Avenue Q Palmdote, California 93550 Telephone 947-41 11 FAX 947-8604 LAGERLOF. SENECAL DRESCNER & SWIFT Attonys September 21, 1992 Ms. Laurie Life City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 Ninth Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 SUBJECT: GENERAL PLAN EIR Dear Ms. Life: SEP 22c I In my letter Friday, I failed to take into account that AVEK does not serve the 1 Dl entire Palmdale planning area. It would seem that about 35,000 acres are not ( under AVEK with the net effect that the Palmdale planning area is 5.02% of thej AVEK service territory. The incorrect use of the word TMrecharge" has been common in this area. Recharge is when water is brought from the outside and spread onto the ground or injected in wells to recharge the ground water aquifer. It is incorrect to call "bringing water into the area and using ItTM recharge. Very truly yours, HAROLD M. FONES, " General Manager HMF/dtr cc: Board of Directors ---PAGE BREAK--- COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ri iI DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS 900 SOUTH FRE MONT AVENUE ALHAMBRA. CALIFORNIA 91803.1331 THOMAS A. TIDEMANSON. DIr.ctor Telephoie: (818) 458-5100 September 22, 1992 Ms. Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 9th Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 Dear Ms. Lile: RESPONSE TO A DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN SEP 25 1992 ADDRESS ALL CORRESPONDE?' POBOX l4 ALHAMBRA. CALIFORNIA 9l84J P-4 iN REPLY PLEASE REFER TO FILE Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the City of Palmdale General Plan. Although, we have not completed the review of the DEIR, we offer the following comments. We will forward additional comments when we complete our review. Traffic/Circulation We believe a traffic study should be prepared for each major development to identify the traffic impacts and ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are proposed. The study should also address the cumulative impacts generated by the proposed development and other nearby developments and include level of service analyses for affected intersections and freeway interchanges. If traffic signals or other mitigation measures are warranted at the affected intersections, the developer should contribute to the cost. In addition, the developer should determine his proportionate share of signal or other mitigation I costs and submit this information to this Department for review and approval. We agree with the report's conclusion that even with the increased roadway capacities in the recommended circulation element and the transportation demand management measures outlined, many arterial segments within the City and unincorporated areas are projected to operate at LOS D or worse at the year of land use buildout. It may be necessary to reduce land use densities in certain areas, so that I the entire roadway network will operate at acceptable levels of J service. If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact Ms. Emiko Kanayama of our Traffic Investigations and Studies Section at (818) 458-5909. ---PAGE BREAK--- Ms. Laurie Lile September 22, 1992 Page 2 Sewer Maintenance Section 3.11.2 of DEIR should be expanded to include the following statement: There are approximately 242 miles of local sewers within the jurisdiction of the City of Palrndale which discharge into the County Sanitation District 20 facilities. These sewers are owned by the City but are operated by the Consolidated Sewer Maintenance District (CSMD) of this Department. Therefore, future development will be required to annex to the CSMD for operational and maintenance purposes. If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact Mr. Norman Cortez of our Waterworks and Sewer Maintenance Division at (818) 458-7188. Waterworks Extensive comments are enclosed as Attachment 1. If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact Mr. Nicholas Agbobu of our Waterworks and Sewer Maintenance Division at (818) 458-7159. Qeztions regar the environmental reviewing process of this Department can rected to Ms. Clarice Nash at the letterhead address or at (818) 458-4334. Very truly yours, T. A. TIDEMANSON irector of Public Works ARL L. B]4M /Assistant Deputy Director Planning Division MA: aa WP/ 161 Enc. ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTACHMENT 1 1. Page PS-21, First Paragraph The third sentence of this paragraph should be changed to indIcate that the ground water movement is northwesterly towards the depression in Lancaster. The data in the fourth sentence of this paragraph appears t Inconsistent. It states that Exhibit PS-i shows the approximate grou water surfaces in the Spring of 1984 and that Table PS-i sho5 approximate depth of ground water for ten different locatlr, derived from Exhibit PS-i. However, Table PS-i is the same as ISbie 3...9 which indicates that the source of information was from the Waterworw Districts in 1990 rather than 1984. The last sentence of this paragraph states that overdraft caused the water levels to decline in recent years. This stateren.tmy be true for the period between 1920 to 1977. However, betweer77 • 1986, the water levels stabliized and between 1988 to 1992, they risen. See Long Term Hydrograph. Appendix C, Law Envlronmert Report (November 25, 1991) which correlates USGS 20 years OF well monitoring for AVEK with weil records of the Waterworks 2. Page PS-22, Last Paragraph This paragraph states that the State provides less than half ccr total entitlement each year and that this level of delivery s lack of capacity In the aqueduct relative to u, statement appears to be Incorrect. It Is our understanding - aqueduct has adequatecapaclty, If the restriction at the 8ank plant In the Sacramento River delta region was eilminac.. additional seasonal storage south of the delta was construtte solve these problems, the DWR installed four pumps lncreaslng., capacity to 10,300 ef s or 60,000 Ac-Ft. These pumps would during high flow winter months and would be used to meet en deliveries. DWR is also proceeding with the scheduled completI of the 300,000 Ac-Ft Kern Water Bank Recharge and Extraction F. and completIon of the 300,000 Ac-Ft Los Banos Grandes Reser - The last sentence of this paragraph states that If the continues the entitlement could be reduced to the 1985 level did not receive anywater from the state. ThIs statement shou:. verIfied. According to DWR bulletin 132-87, AVEK received 37,G-- that year, The procedure utilized to allocate deIlverie2. droughts is described in article 18 Cf the state contr. interpre:tionof this provision, specifically whether reductio be based on entitlement or deliveries, Is the subject of discussions. Historically, the reduction was based on the rat- contractor's entitlerrt W tie tota) prcect entitlement. ---PAGE BREAK--- prorated reduct ions were then subtracted f rom the Contractor's demand. Delivery reductions are determined by DWR each year using a risk analysis. 3. Page PS-25, First Paragraph, Fourth Sentence isworking at its maximum capacity of 10 MGD, with no plans for expansion. Our information from AVEK is that this plant wIll be expanded to 28MGD in the future when the need arises. At this time, Waterworks District No. 4 Is aware of developments on the casts Ide of Lancaster which may require the enlargement of this plant. It should be noted that in a conjunctive use program such as the "In lieu of Pumping" program, water levels may sometimes declIne, especially durIng drought conditions. However, this should not be considered as overdrafting of the basin. This Is due to the fact that recovery will take place during the next wet climatic cycle. 4. Page PS-27, Fourth Paragraph Hydrographs of over 200 water wells In the basin, monitored over 20 years, indicate that ground water levels have since 1986 generally stabilized and are now rising even during this drought period. Therefore, we suggest that the word "Continued" in the first sentence of this paragraph be omitted. "The 80 percent of the water supply of Palmdale" as being ground water should be verified. According to our data, the total ground water extractions amounted to approximately 4t percent In 1989. This fluctuates yearly, depending on agricultural demands, growth, and drought. 5. Page PS-27, Last Paragraph This presents theworst andmost Improbable scenario. Althoughmanyof the water purveyors who rely totally on the ground water supply and do not make the most efficient conJunctive use of the Valley Resources, existing data confirms the decrease in agricultural use and the "In lieu of PumpIng" program, recommended by DWR and adopted by the Waterworks Water District, and Palm Ranch Water District have contrIbuted to the stabilization and rise of water levels. Claims that the current groundwater extractions are still exceeding the natural recharge are refuted by the fact that the water levels of over 200 water wells stabilized and rising. Claims that some water wells are decliningmay be from over-pumpIng of the wells over long periods of time and the resultant creation of a localIzed pumping trough. ---PAGE BREAK--- 6 Page PS-28 Table PS-2 should be revised to show that Palmdale Water District, Palm Ranch Irrigation District, Quartz Hill Water District, and Littlerock Creek arepublicwater agencies and arenot private. 7. Page 3-62, Second Paragraph The data shown is not entirely correct. An average annual recharge of 40,700 Ac-Ft was estimated by Durbln (1978) as part of the comprehensive study made by USGS and DWR. From the USGS mathematical model, DWR estimated the storage capacity of 68,000,000 Ac-Ft. The source of 88mllIlon Ac-Ft should be further verified. It should also be noted that the Department of Public Works has not estimated the 1.1 averageannual recharge, buthasbeenusingthe58,000Ac-Ftestimated by P.M. Sioy, Jr. of USGS in 1967. 8. Page 3-62, Third Paragraph The first sentence of this paragraph, "Subsurface flows from adjoining areas is the least probable means of recharge" should be further expandedorciarifled. Subsurfacefiows include streamfiow infiltration which is an important source of recharge. 9. Page 3-63, ThIrd Paragraph Regardingthedisagreementonstorageandextractionflgures, it isour opinion that there is no basis for disagreement. DWR is the only agency that has estimated the storagecapacity of thegroundwater basin. This estimate was based on the data generated by USGS and DWR for the comprehensive study of the basin. The disagreement on extraction fIgures Is that these figures do not reflect extractions for the same period, or conditions. Considering that drought conditions persisted and that state water was cut back, agriculture as well as others had to extract larger amounts of ground-water. Therefore, there Is no basis for this either. LAf/ e3I t&)tT5 The word, "safelyTM in the third sentence of this paragraph Is not pfr.5 appropriate. I LP lnthenexttoiastl sentence of the fourth paragraph. 10. Page 3-64, FIrst Paragraph We do not agree with the data In this paragraph. We believe that the rate of decline of 12-feet per year Is high. The average rate was from 4 to6 feet per year. Also the TMdrawdown of 100 feet ormore" sentence is not correct. The average drawdown in our district's well is 31 feet. ---PAGE BREAK--- It should be noted that since 1986, the Waterworks District have not experlenced6-feetperyeardecilnes. Thisstatementshouldbemodifled and the data for 6-feet decline verified. This may be caused by over- pumping of that part of the aquifer. 11 12. 13 The last sentence of this paragraph Is not accurate. Thewell records of over 200 wells monitored by USGS, Edison Company and the Waterworks Districts indicate that the water levels have stabilized and are rising. The whole paragraph should be revised. Third Paragraph, First Sentence hlMohaveu should be changed to Antelope Valley. Also, the last sentence of this paragraph seems to be basedon speculation. USGS report No. 84- 4081 Indicates that In general, throughout the Antelope Valley, groundwater quality has remained unchanged and no specific trends of change are apparent. The report indicates that in the vIcinity of Llttierock, concentrations of nitrates exceed the MCL of public water suppiycriteria. Thismaybe attributed to nitrogen fertilizers usedon orchards. However, wewould agree that urban run-off, septic tanks and perched water conditions may be potential sources of contamination. Page 3-65, First Paragraph J.-,4?ui This last sentence should be expanded to state that the reason AVEK received only 9,600 Ac-Ft was due to the state's drought conditions. The figure of 9,600 Ac-Ft should be verified. Our records for Waterworks District No. 4 Indicates that demands for 1991 were 22,100 I1 Ac-Ft and that 51% of the demand or 11,271 Ac-Ft were bought from AVEK. Page 3-200, Table 3-29 and Page 4-173, Table 4-16 The water consumption rate factors used in these tables are not accurate. We suggest you use the following factors: Land Use Resident lai Heavy Commercial (Industrial) Light Commercial Parks, and Green Belts Consumption Factor 750 gpd/du 3,000 gal/Acre/day 2,000 gal/Acre/day 1,500 gal/Acre/day Page 3-201, FIrst Paragraph LIfv3j pvl Next to last sentence states that AVEK and Paimdale may be lntertiedlj,4PtA)I through the AVEK Acton Water Treatment Plant facilities, it is our I*c-5 understandingthat 3 the Acton area. ---PAGE BREAK--- 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. Page 3-201, Next to Last Paragraph This paragraph should be revised as follows: Water bought from the Antelope Valley East-Kern Water Agency (AVEK) is conjunct Ively used with ground water pumped f rom 33 wells of Waterworks Districts 4 and 34 and nine wells of Waterworks Districts 24, 27, and 33. The water systems are Interconnected and their operations consolidated. It Is the Intent of the Department of Public Works to consolidate the Districts to more efficiently operate the "In lieu of pumping" and artificial storage and recovery programs. Generally, 60% of the Waterworks DistrIcts' water demands are met by AVEK supplemental water supply and 40% from ground water. The Waterworks Districts plan to use, as facilItIes are expanded, 80% supplemental water to meet future demands. Page 3-203, FIrst Paragraph The 28 should be corrected to 33 water wells. 1 I uir Second paragraph md icates that Waterworks Distr Icts 24, 27, and 33 use only water from AVEK. This should be corrected to indicate that theyJ*45 also use ground water. This Is covered above. Page 3-204, Fourth Paragraph it appears that the description of the wells as "provision" and "eihtJL4.5 drInkIng wells" is incorrect. Page 3-204, Last Paragraph, Last Sentence ThIs sentence should be corrected. AVEK Is not a source of supply to Littlerock Creek Irrigation District. That DIstrict contracts directly) with DWR and has a 2,300 acre-foot entitlement. Page 4-56, Water Resources This section does not reflect present or futureconditions and Is based on speculation, It should be noted that any depletion of the ground water supply is dependent on the usage and management of both the ground water basin and the Imported water supplIes and not entirely on the amount of recharge. The cost of the imported water supply should not be a factor if development and the economy of the Valley are not allowed to stagnate. ---PAGE BREAK--- 19. Page 4-56, Second Paragraph it IS not true that ground water levels are steadily declining (See our previous comments). it should also be noted that the Waterworks Districts in order to mitigate the ground water extractions during the current drought cycle, not only distr ibutedwater conservat ion kits, but also produced educational programs and encouraged use of drought resistant landscaping to make more efficient use of water. The Districts also instituted mandatory conservation measures. No other water purveyor lntheValiey instituted suchameasure. TheWaterworks Districts are also pursuing an artificiai storageandrecoveryprogram. Our studies show that this is feasible andwlil beconducting an aQuifer test, Thisprogramwlli be Inst ituted upon compiet ion of the necessary environmental documents and permits from EPA and the State Water Quality Control Board. 20. Page 4-56, Fourth Paragraph LMi The statement that reduced flows from Amargosa and Littierock Creeks could result in water for resurfacing of Lake Beds for space and test J f lights operations should be further investigated. From data that we have seen, it appears that flooding will hamper operations at the test I io center. 21. Page 4-57, To End The data on this page dIsmisses the availability of State water and the L.AtI adoption of a conjunctive use program In the area. it dwells only on the alleged safe yield of the basin without consideration of the economics and physical characteristics of the basin. See our previous comments. MA:aa P -4 / 161 ---PAGE BREAK--- Stats of Califotnia Memorandum Dots : August 17, 1992 To 1. Project Coordinator 2. City of Palmdale 38306 Ninth Street East Palmdale, California 93550 Attention: Laurie Lile From D.partm.nt of Waist Rssourcss Subject: SCH 87120908, City of Paladal. Draft O.n.ral Plan/Draft Environmental lapact R.port Tb. Rssourc.s Ac 'ncy The Division of Operations and Maintenance of the Department of Water Resources has received and reviewed the above referenced documents designated as SH 87120908. They detail the city of Palmdale's future plans for expansion and growth through the year 2010. Of immediate concern are the proposed developments which will potentially impact the California Aqueduct. This review will address only those issues. There appears to be no environmental conflict. The general plan/DEIR and accompanying engineering plans reflect three new bridges which will span the California Aqueduct in the future. Of the three bridges, only two have designated names. The two bridges are: 1. Ritter Ranch Road bridge 2. City Ranch Road bridge The remaining bridge is not named. Department policy is that any encroachment within DWR right- of-way will require a fully executed encroachment permit.. All bridge designs within Aqueduct right-of-way shall be designed as single-span bridges. No support members will be allowed within the Aqueduct. In addition, the City of Palmdale will be responsible for all future maintenance and repair of the bridges once their installation has been completed. If the bridges are to be dedicated to the County of Los Angeles or to Caltrans, then they must accept the responsibility for future repair and maintenance costs. The reviewed documents were not very specific as to drainage IY.4JI1 improvements associated with the city of Palmdale's future development(s). DWR would like the opportunity to review all drainage improvement plans proposed in the vicinity of the Aqueduct, as they become available. ---PAGE BREAK--- Project Coordinator, et al August 17, 1992 Page Two To obtain an encroachment permit package, please write to the following: Department of Water Resources Division of Land and Right of Way Post Office Box 942836 Sacramento, California 94236-0001 Attention: Clifford Winston If you have any questions regarding DWR's review of SCH 87120908, please contact David at (916) 653-7168. Keith Barrett, Division of Operations and Maintenance ---PAGE BREAK--- CL AM ON COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTS 955 Work.an Mill Road, Whthier, CA 90601-4998 Mailing Address: P0. Box 4998, Whittier, CA 90607-4998 Tleohone 1313) 699-741 1, FAX: (310) 695-6139 Ms. Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 Ninth Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 Dear Ms. Lile: OF LOS ANGELES COUNIY CHARLES w C' V Chief Engineer and General Man r August 26, 1992 - File No: 20-00.04-00 I Palmdale General Plan The County Sanitation Districts received a Th'aft Environmental Impact Report for the subject project on August 13, 1992. We have the following comments on the wastewater impacts section of the subject document. • As stated in the Draft EIR, sewerage service is provided to the City of Palmdale primarily by County Sanitation District (District) No. 20, and secondarily by District No. 14. District No. 20 is served by the Palmdale Water Reclamation Plant (PWRP). The present design capacity of the PWRP is 8.0 million gallons per day (mgd), and the PWRP presently treats an average flow of 8.1 mgd. In order to meet the current service demand, the Sanitation Districts are presently expanding the treatment capacity of the PWRP through surface aeration of the existing oxidation ponds. Stage IV of the ongoing PWRP expansion will increase the design capacity of the treatment plant to 15 mgd and is scheduled to be completed in mid 1994. District No. 14 is served by the Lancaster Water Reclamation Plant (LWRP). The present design capacity of the LWRP is 10.0 mgd, and the LWRP presently treats an average flow of 8.2 mgd. In order to meet the current service demand, the Sanitation Districts are presently expanding the treatment capacity of the LWRP through surface aeration of the existing oxidation ponds. Stage IV of the ongoing LWRP expansion will increase the design capacity of the treatment plant to 16.0 mgd and is scheduled to be completed in late 1994. • In addition to the above mentioned treatment facilities, the Sanitation Districts own, operate, and 34J maintain wastewater conveyance facilities within the proposed project area. The impacts of the proposed project on these facilities should be addressed in the project environmental document. J • Individual projects associated with the proposed General Plan may require a Districts' Permit foil Industrial Wastewater Discharge. Project developers should contact the Sanitation Districts' Industrial Waste Section to reach a determination on this matter. If this permit is necessaiy, the project I ' developer must submit a copy of the final plans to the Districts for review and approval prior to J construction. ---PAGE BREAK--- Ms. Laurie Ule 2 August 26, 1992 • The design capacity of Districts' wastewater conveyance and treatment facilities are based on population forecasts adopted in the 1991 South Coast Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). The AQMP was jointly prepared by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) as a requirement of the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA). In order to conform with the AQMP, all expansions of Districts' facilities must be sized and service phased in a manner which is consistent with the Growth Management Plan (GMP). The GMP is a regional growth forecast for the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, and Imperial which was prepared by SCAG. Specific policies included in the GMP which deal with the management and distribution of growth are incorporated into the AQMP strategies to improve air quality in the South Coast Air Basin. The available capacity of Districts' conveyance and treatment facilities will, therefore, be limited to levels associated with approved growth identified in the adopted GMP/AQMP. As such, this letter does not constitute a guarantee of wastewater service, but is intended to communicate the Districts' willingness to provide this service up to the levels which are legally permitted and to inform you of the currently existing capacity and any proposed expansion of Districts' facilities. If you have any questions, please contact the undersigned at (310) 699-7411, extension 2728. Very truly yours, Charles W. Carry David B. Lambert Project Engineer Financial Planning & Property Management Section N4VA5VAPALMO?*.T ---PAGE BREAK--- COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT 1320 NORTh EASTERN AVENUE LOS ANGELES. CAUFORNIA 90063-3294 (213) 881-2481 P. MICHAEL FREEMAN FIRE CHIEF FORESTER & FIRE WARDEN September 2, 1992 Ms. Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 9th Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 Dear Ms. Lile: GO4JRA HILLS LRTESIA IALDWIN PARK IELL SELL GARDENS SUBJECT: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT CITY OP PALMDALE (PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN) TWO-VOLUME SET We have reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the City of Palmdale General Plan. The environmental resources element of the plan has addressed the areas germane to the Forestry Division of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The goals, objectives, and proposed policies will provide the necessary broad guidelines for future development. Individual projects will provide the specific analysis required to determine the actual impacts. We recommend the conservation of open space in addition to 1 LACFI the identification and preservation of significant ecological areas. This can be accomplished throu9h creative design and adherence to the Native Desert Vegetation Ordinance. Fire hazard reduction/fuel management plans should be developed and implemented prior to construction. Native/low fuel volume plants should be mandatory in the revegetative plan required for each project. This will limit the poten- tial threat of wildland fires. SERVING THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY AND THE CITIES OF: BRADSURY CALASASAS CARSON CERRITOS CLAREMONT COMMERCE CUDAI4Y DIAMOND BAR IRWINDALE DUAPTE LA CANADA FUNTRIDGE GLENOORA LAXEW000 HAWAIIAN GARDENS LA MIRADA HIDDEN HILLS LANCASTER HUNTiNGTON PARK LA PUENTE INDUSTRY LAWNOALE LOMITA MALIBU MAWOOO NORWALK PALMOALE PALOS VERDES ESTATES PARAMOUNT RDO RWERA RANCHO PALOS VERDES ROWNO HILLS ROWNO Hft.LS ESTATES SAN DIMAS SANTA CLARITA SIGNAL HILL SOUTH EL MONTE SOUTH GATE TEMPLE crry WALNUT WEST HOLLYWOOL WESTLAKE VILLAGL wHrmER ---PAGE BREAK--- Ms. Laurie Lile September 2, 1992 Page 2 If you have additional questions, please contact this office at (213) 881-2481. Very truly yours, P. MICHAEL FREEMAN % E LER, ACTING CHIEF, FORESTRY DIVISION JTH: ic ---PAGE BREAK--- State of Cahfornia T THE RESOURCES AGENCY OF CAUFONIA Memorand P. Wheeler September 21, 1992 Secretary for Resources Subject: Draft Envrorunental Ms. Laurie Lile Impact Report (DEIR) Palmdale Planning Department for the Palmdale 38306 9th Street East General Plan Update Palmdale, CA 93550 SCH $87120908 From Department of Conservation-Office of the Director The Department of Conservation has reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the above-referenced project, and has the following comments. Mineral Resource Policies The DEIR and the draft General Plan address mineral zones located along creekbeds on the east side of the City. These areas (depicted on Exhibit 3-19 of the DEIR) have been classified and designated by the State as containing regionally important mineral resource deposits. Both the classification report (Special Report 143. Part V; 1984) and the designation maps (Designation Report No. 6; 1987) identify these areas as Sectors Dl through D5. The DEIR indicates that 5,738 acres (better than 1/2 of the designated mineral area) will be identified as Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) and made available for mining activities. It appears that the City will eventually propose to permit other land uses on the remaining portion of the designated area. Pursuant to Section 2762(a) of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA), lead agencies which have State classified and/or designated lands within their jurisdiction are required to establish Mineral Resource Management Policies in their General Plan that will: recognize mineral information classified by the State Geologist; assist in the management of land uses which affect areas of statewide and regional significance; and emphasize the conservation and development of identified mineral deposits. These policies must be forwarded to the Board for review and comment prior to lead agency adoption. The draft General Plan recognizes that these policies must be developed, and in fact, copies of proposed Mineral Resource Management Policies drafted by the City were forwarded to the Board for review in April 1991 and again in July of 1991. 51 However, based on its reviews, the Board determined that both sets of the policies did not comply with existing statute (copies of transmittal letters attached). We would recommend that the City formally request Board review of the final draft policies prior to taking action on the General Plan Update, so that the policies may be included within the General Plan as required by SNABA. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. wreeier an Ms. Lile September 21, 1992 Page Two The Environmental Resources Element of the Draft General Plan includes a Section on Mining Standards. If these standards are in any way intended to amend the City's existing surface mining and reclamation ordinance, please forward such amendments to the Board for review and recertification. Geoloqic Hazards The Department's Division of Mines and Geology has concerns with respect to high-intensity development within the San Andreas Rift Zone. However, the DEIR for the General Plan proposes several policies that would restrict the type and density of development in the San Andreas Rift Zone. Policies which restrict the Rift Zone to open space, low-density and rural land uses, and the policy that restricts the location of utility lines near the fault, are positive. The Department appreciates the opportunity to comment on the DEIR and the proposed General Plan. We hope that the above issues are given adequate consideration in the FEIR. If I can be of further assistance, please feel free to call me at (916) 445-8733. Deborah L. Herrinann Environmental Program Coordinator Attachments cc: Denise M. Jones, Executive Officer State Mining and Geology Board Roger Martin, Division of Mines and Geology Jack NcMillan, Division of Mines and Geology ---PAGE BREAK--- STATE OF CAUFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY PETE WILSON. Gov.rn DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION STATE MINING AND GEOLOGY BOARD 1416 NInth Str•.t, Room 1326-A Sacramsato, CA 95814 iam. A. A,idsr%c. Cbowmai, aco GØ O.Wapn. PIO4MCCIW LM. ónu JM.iockLiCO$ R. Gory M4 iock Sir.bow Frederick W. Buss, Acting Director of Planning City of Palmdale 38300 North Sierra Highway Palmdale, CA 93550 Dear Mr. Buss: August 7, 1991 Tephons: (916k 322- 1O2 TOO Ljns (9161 324-2S55 Thank you for your response to the State Mining and Geology Board's (the Board) May 21, 1991 comments on the City of Palmdale's proposed mineral resource management policies. Thank you also for the text and policy statements, which are intended to supplement the City of Palmda].e's mineral resource management policies. Following are my comments on the City's supplemental policy provisions developed to address Board criteria (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, section 3676) for mineral resource management policies that were not addressed in the City's initial policies. Criteria - A summary of the information provided in the classification, and designation reports, or incorporation by reference of-SMARA and Board policy, together with either a map of the identified mineral deposits or incorporation by reference of the classification and designation maps provided by the Board. (CCR section 3676(a)) Comments - The City's "Summary of Classification and Designation Reports" includes information on the State's designation of important mineral resources (Designation Report No. 6 Designation of Regionally Sianificant Construction Aggregate Resource Areas in the Sauaus-Newhall and Palmdale Production- Consumption Regions). However, a map of the designated areas has not been included in the policies. The map provided only shows classified mineral deposits. Also, except for the inclusion of Exhibit A (Special Report 143 Plate 5.1), there is no information in the summary of the State's classification of important mineral resources ---PAGE BREAK--- Frederick W. Buss August 7, 1991 Page 2 (Special Report 143, Part V. Classification of Sand and Gravel Resource Areas. Sauaus-Newhall Production- Consumption and Palindale Production-Consumption Region). Classification and designation are two separate processes and SMABA section 2762(a) requires that information on both classified and designated mineral deposits be addressed in cities' and counties' mineral resource management policies. Criteria - Statements of policy in accordance with SMARA section 2762(a). (CCR section 3676(b)) Comments - The City's supplemental text and policy statements provide statements of policy that assist in the management of land uses which affect areas of statewide and regional significance and emphasize the conservation and development of identified mineral deposits. However, in order for the City's policies to fully comply with SMARA section 2762 and CCR section 3676(b), the policies must recognize mineral information classified by the State and transmitted by the Board (Special Report 143). Criteria - Reference in the General Plan of the classified and designated mineral deposits and a discussion of those mineral resource areas targeted by the lead agency for conservation and possible future extraction. (CCR section 3676(c) Comments - Again, the City's summary must include information on classified mineral deposits. Also, Special Report 143 Plate 5.1 does not show the location of both classified and designated mineral resource areas. Special Report 143 Plate 5.1 only shows the location of mineral resource areas classified by the State Geologist. Mineral resource areas designated by the State Mining and Geology Board are depicted on SMARA Designation Map 85-3 Plates 5-9 (copy enclosed). Also, until the City of Palmdale has determined the boundaries for the MRE designation and specified those boundaries in the policies, the Board cannot-determine that the policies meet Board criteria. The o1icies must identify which mineral resource areas are targeted for conservation and possible future development. ---PAGE BREAK--- Frederick W. Buss August 7, 1991 Page 3 As you know, the identification of important mineral resource areas by the State does not preclude cities and counties from deciding the best use for land within their jurisdictions. However, it is important in deciding land use that information on the importance of the classified and designated mineral resources and the impact of the loss of those resources be included in the decisionmaking process. If information on designated mineral resource areas is not disclosed during the process, and a land use decision is made that precludes the development of a designated mineral resource area, an aggrieved party can appeal the lead agency's land use decision to the Board. Again, thank you for your response to the Board's review of the City of Palmdale's mineral resource management policies. I look forward to reviewing the policies again when the MRE boundaries have been determined. Sincerely, A. James A. Anderson Chairman cc: Mayor William 3. Knight Mayor pro Tern, .Joseph Davies City Counci].rnembers: Janis Hainm JamesLedford James Root City Administrator, Robert W. Toone ---PAGE BREAK--- E OF CALIFORNIA THE RESOURCES AGENCY PETE WILSON, Gov,rnor RTMENI OF CONSERVATION TE MINING AND GEOLOGY BOARD NInth Str..t. Room 1328-A amento, CA 95814 A M4.na.,, ca8rmOfl s Poündo Honorable William 3. Knight Mayor, City of Palmdale 38300 North Sierra Highway .Palmdale, CA 93550 ar Mayor Knight: May 21, 1991 IsliphOnE (916) 322-1082 TOO Lan. (9161 324-2555 : :cr your timely response to my letter regarding the cit le's development of mineral resource management portant mineral deposits classified and designated by t. you know, the development of these policies is require. California's Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMAR urces Code Section 2710 et seq.). I am pleased to city is in the process of developing minera.. - '-onse to information transmitted by th€ Geology Board ("the Board"). However, I am unsure the you provided in your letter was to ad : re rress to date on the policies or whether the information p :c:s intended to serve as the City's proposed mineral resource management rolicies. f the information you submitted is informational, please note that the City's proposed policies must be submitted to the Board for review and comment prior to the City's final adoption of the policies (SMARA Section 2762(b)). If, however, the information submitted is intended to serve as the City's policies, I have the o11owing comments. he policies do provide a Mineral Resource Extraction designation ere mineral resource extraction activities would be allowed. owever, Exhibit LU-2, delineating the Mineral Resource :xtraction district, was not included for Board review in the 'formation provided. Also, additional provisions would need to incorporated in the policies in order to meet the following iteria as outlined in Board policy (California Code of gulations, Title 14, Sectiors 3675-3676; copy enclosed): ---PAGE BREAK--- Honorable William J. Knight May 21, 1991 Page 2 A summary of the information provided in the classification and designation reports, or incorporation by reference of SMARA and Board policy, together with either a map of the identified mineral deposits or incorporation by reference of the classification and designation maps provided by the Board. (Although the information you provided did include a map of the designated deposits, the information did not include the other criteria above.) Statements of policy in accordance with SMARA Section 2762(a). Reference in the General Plan of the classified and designated mineral deposits and a discussion of those mineral resource areas targeted by the lead agency for conservation and possible future extraction. Use of an overlay map or inclusion of information on any appropriate planning maps to clearly delineate identified mineral deposits, and those areas targeted by the lead agency for conservation and possible future extraction. I hope that this information will be of assistance to you. If you have any questions regarding the above information, please contact Ms. Deborah L. fferrmanri, Executive Officer, State Mining and Geology Board, 1416 - 9th Street, Room 1326-A, Sacramento, California 95814, telephone (916) 322-1082. Sincerely, A. James A. Anderson Chairman cc: Mayor pro Tern, Joseph bavies City Councilmembers: Janis Hamrn James Ledford James Root Planning Director, Clyde Evans ---PAGE BREAK--- CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION DIVISION OF MINES AND GEOLOGY DMG NOTE 26 SURFACE MINING AND RECLAMATION ACT OF 1975 (As amended by Ssrto 811 1300, Nej.Jy - 1980 Stetutos, Assembly 011110, Amiss- 1984 Sinai, 811 563, Raycs - 1986 Stutos, Senate 8111261, Seymour- 1986 Statutes, Assembly 811747. Sher - 1967 Sites, Assembly 8113551, Sher. 1900 Sta*itse, Assembly 811 3803, Sher- 1960 Statutes, and Assembly 8111508, Sher - 1901 Sul.s) ArtIcle 1. Provisions §2710. This chapter shall be knewn mid may be cited - the Stufece Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975. §2711. The Legislature hereby finds and declares that the xtraction of minerals is essential to the continued economic well- being of the state arid to the made of the society, aid that the eclamation of mined laids is necessary to prevent or ivee effects on the envirmument and to protect the piblic health safety. The Lqislature fiuther finds that the reclamation of mined ds as provided in this chapter wifl permit tIte centhmiungof als mid will provide for the protecti aid si±sequn* efi- use of the mined mid reclaimed lard. (c)The Legislanre further thaiswfacemngtakplacs ivase erase wle the geologic, topographic, clinic biidogi- and social ocndidma are signifiov.tly different and that recta- zion operations sod the specifications therefore may very id- y. §2712. Itis the hizeru ofthe Legislators to musts mid mni ifective and comprehensive surface mining and recI' y with regulation of surface mhtiiigoperalicms IOU tors Advase envirorunental ects we prevented that mined lands we m.d to a ueabk is ly laptab4e for alternative lenduess. The production aid erarvation . while giving consideration to vabi.hling ze - mhed, wildlife, range ami forage. ad am c) Residual hazards to pibba th 2713.kttheinOfthetgislae to take private properly fctpob& ssconçarsarioninvirJ.fimI o(theCaIitor §27i4.Thischapterdoannoclyt'- Excavations or grading mu- ral lituteT. Prospecting for, or the an1.O00cubicyasdsinr m Surfam mining operations that mu requixedby federal law in order to protect * mining claim, if those opavrezs sin conducted solely for that pipose. Any other surfam mining operations that the board deter- mines to be of an infrequent nanre aid which involve only minor sirface The solar evaporation of sea water or bay water for the production of ash mini related minerala. 32715. No provision of this chxer cv any ruling, requiranent. cv policy of the board is a lm.t on any of the following: (a)Onthepolicepowerofanycityorcormtyoronthepowerof arty city cv aaanry to declare, prohibit, mid abets nuisances. On the power of the Aauney General, at the request of the board, orapon his owansotitse, tolaing an action inthe name of the people of the State o(Califbrnia to enjoin any polhnion or nuisance. On di. power of any w ay in the euforcanesu or adininim*lon of any ci law which it is specifically aiizad or requisvd to enforce or nin1ste. On the rigl* of any pnto maintain at any time my acpri sin for relief against wry private masance as defined in Pwt3 (cQaInIrwg with Section 3479) o(Divion4 of the Civil Code or for arty odus .isio rslit (e)Onths c(sny lead agency to adirptpolicies, standards, onegnl'eims ifl wnj alditianulreqámnasssonaiyperacm if the do ant prevent the pmiuu born complying With the 1nvvatl.4 cidis diipi.r. oweofmycituorcr toregulatetimuwof - - = the enjent resources), and other - en action on his ow Geolos for a of meralam i-iieg with Section 1084) ofTitle 1 of - bond *nl1 submit to die Legislanwe on December the bacal ycw. Such mp shall inchide a of die ectk.d, bachdbig legidative reccaunendaticra, which me neawy to carry out mere completely the pipome mid reqáanenss of this ch*er. cm P.O. Sr ass. ca assta OL l - T G. 1145 . Sr CA s i'5ix ([PHONE REDACTED]. - PETE WL$QN.Goesmor EDWARD IIEIDIG, Director STATE OF CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION ---PAGE BREAK--- ordinances. The state policy shall not iachude aspects of regula ting stiaface mitring operations which are solely of local concern. aM not of state wide or regional cotes, as determined by the board. such as, but not limited to, bows of operation, noise, dust, fetcatg. and purely aesthetic considerations. 12738. Such policy shall include objectives and criteria for all of the following: Determining the lead agency pursuant to the provisions of Section 2771. (b)The orderly evaluation of reclamation plans. Determining the c if any, alder which the approval of a proposed surface mining operation by a lead agency need not be conditioned on a guarantee assuring reclamation of the mined lands. f2759. The stye policy shall be continuously review ed and may be revised. During the formulation or revision of such policy. the board shall consult with, and carefully evaluate the t- nanda- tions of, the State Geologist, arty district technical advisory - tees, concerned federal, sate, and local agencies, educational hat. tntions. civic and public interest orgauuzacions, and private organi- zations and individuals. *2760. The board shall not adopt orrevise the state policy unless a public hearing is first held respecting their adoption or revision. At least 30 days prior to such haring, the board shall give notice of the hit by publication pursuant to Section 6061 of the Government Code. *2761. On or before January 1, 1977, and, as a minimums, after theoantptetion of eschdocentual eeasos, tt eO] of P1aoaio< and Research shall identify portions of the following area within the state which are urbanized or an subject to urban expansion or other irreversible land uses which would preclude mineral exttac- tion: (1)Standard Titan statistical areas and such other areas for which information is readily available. (2)Other areas a may be re quested by the Doatd In accordance with a time sdteduls, and bred upon guide- lines adopted by the board. the State Geologist shalt fir, as that basis solely of geologic factors, and without regard b aits= yob use and land ownership, the areas identified by the O!&e of Planning and Research, any area for which cl si&radon has bean requested by a petition which has been acceptedby the board, or any other a efollow wbW. containing Areas containi little or tw mineral deposis. .v Area containing mineral dept. p' . Area ccee2ilringmimal dpoiia. the sig if aaoe of visc5 requires furthe r evahtaooe.. The State Geologist abl require the pedtiodz to pay the reasonable costs of classifying as area for which classi$aation, has been requested by the petitioner. The State Geologist shall the information to the board for incorporation into the state policy and for tttmemittal to lead agencies. 12762. Within 12 months of receiving the mineral informa- tion described in Section 2761, and also within 12 motels of the designation of an area of statewide or regional signifamos within its jurisdiction. every lead agency shall, in accordance with state policy, establish mineral resource ce managaneru policies to be incor- porated in its get^eral plan which w il] Recognize mineral information classified by the State Ge- ologist and oraramitted by the board. (2)Assist in the management of Lod uses which affect ass of statewide and regional significance, (3)Emphasize the conservation and development of identified mineral deposits. (b)Every lead agency shall submit proposed mineral resource mmagement policies to the board for review and comment prior to Any subsequent ametdmau of the mineral resource man- agerneru policy previootly reviewed by the board shall also require review and comment by the boatel If my area is classified by the Stabs Geologist as an area described in pa ragraph of subdivision of Section 2761, and the lead agency either' has designated that area in its general plan having i rportant minerals to be protected ptusuant to subdivision or otherwise has not yet acted prxsuai to subdivision then prior to permitting a use which would threaten the potential to extract minerals in that area, the lead agency shall prepare, in ju with preparing any a vi ownental document required by Division 13 (conwiencing with Section 21000), or in any event if no such document is required, a statement specifying its reasons forpermitting the pi ed use, arid shall forwardacopy to the State Geologist and the board Im review. If the proposed wa is subject b the requests of Division 13 with Section 21000), the lead agency shall comply with the public review requinealents of that division. Otherwise, the lead agency shall provide public notice of the availability of its stn aoaat by all of the following: Publishing the notice at least one time in a newspaper of general thculation in the area affected by the proposed use. C2) Directly mailing the notice to owners of property within one- halfmileafthop rcelorparceisonwhichthaproposeduseis located as those owners are shown on the latest equalized tole. The public review period shall not be less than 60 days firm the data of the notice and shall btclods at lent one public hearing. The lead erg ney shall evaluate corm received and shall prepare a * M411 taapcede. The written tagama shall describe the disp osi- tionof the major issues raised. In particular, what the lead agency's position on the proposed use is at variance with and objections raised in the comments, the written response shall address in detail why specific comments and suggestions were not Prior to petmittatg a use which would threaten the potential to extract minerals is as area classified by the State Geologist as an area described its paragraph of subdivision of Section 2761, the lead agmoy may cams to be peed an evaluation of the area in order to secertain the sipri&mwi of the mineral deposit located therein. The results of such evahadon shall be nwzaniued to o the State Geologist and the board. *2763 If an area is designated by the board as an area of regional significawi, and the lad agency either has designated that area in its general plan as having important minerals to be protected pursuant to subdivision of Section 2762, or otherwise has not yet 3 ---PAGE BREAK--- ^tmuabon of the s rfacs mining operation is prohibited saml a reclamation plan snd financiall assurances for reclamation ase sp- peoved by the lead agency. Any pasoa who, based on the evidence of the cat substantiate that a lead agency has either failed to act according to due proeats or has relied on comider*ioos not related to the specific applicable requirements of Sectione 2772. 2773, and2773.1, and the lead agency mxface mining o ne adopted pursuant to subdivision of Section 2774, in nrching a decision to deny approval of a reclamationn plan or financial assurances for reclama- tion, faded to act within a reasonable time of receipt of a c mpleted application. or failed to review end approve raclama- don plans or financial assurances as ragnired by subdivisions and may appeal that action or inaction to the board. The board may decline to Ions an appeal if it determines that •!se appeal raises no substantial moan related to the lead agency's sview parsna it to this saetion. Appeals that the board does not decline to hear shall be %eduled and head at a public heaing within 45 days of the filing f the appeal, or any longer period as may be mutually agreed open 4 the board and the person filing the appeal. In hearing an appeal, the board shall only dada whe l the reclamation plan or the financial aenna t.es substantially mast the applicable regrwe netts of Sections 2712, 2773.2773.1. and the lead agency surface mining ordinance adopted pasuant to subdivision of Section 2774. A mcl--6- plan or financial asaisaea s jodrd to meet these requirements shall be approved. A r lamas i plat or financial alwmiceepidpd not to meet dowse requirements dull be ratmned o0tbepsi nMingdoappealwiltanoicaofdafciencia.whoshall be uuadd err on, only, a period ot_30 days. or a iaagar period &posed Upon by the opKUCa , and ft beam. lo coe+xt the noted deficiencies and submit the revised reclamation plan or do revised finsocial assorances to the led agency for review and al wovaL Within 90days oast becoming idle, at defined in Section 2927.1, shall submit to &a lead agency for review and sp¢oval, in aYSar tmngameeu plan. The review and approval of an interim M osp a t plan shad not be c a proles w g atD!ieidon 13 (commeoc- mg with Section 21000). The waved WjL plan sar.11 be considered to tlisaarfios mimes opersdon's k. Uoved reclamation plan, The — * iL u 'm+ganag plan shall Pa's the operates will impis- r t to maintain the sins ittoompliaooa with th chapter, best not limited to,, all pen es,. The maim in mss t`yiiaiashremain in effect for a period riot to exc eed five year+► atJ ic^t tiros des lead agency shall do acs of die following: (1)Renew the interim s -wean" plan for arrodin period not to exceed five years, if the lad ages cy finds that the surface operator has complied fully with die interim management plait. (2)Require the saface maw &pastor to conenenee reclama- tion in accordance with its approved reclamation plait. In any oval, finaadal assurances reptha 4 by Section 2773.1 shall remain ineffectduring die period diet wface mmmg operation is idle. If the surface mid operation is still idle after expirsaion of its interim mwsgemoet plan, the s rface mining operation shall eammencereclamuionis accordance within; approved reclamation 1 Within 60 days of the receipt of the interim maaagamant plan. or a longer period mutually agreed upon by the lead agency and the operator, the lead agency shall review and approve the plan in accordance with its ordnance adopted pursuant to subdivision of Section 2774, so long as the plan satisfies the above requiremams, and so notify the operator in writing. Otherwise, the lead agency shall notify the operator is writing of any defic yciencias in the plan The operator shall have 30 days, or a longer period mutually agreed upon by the operator and the lead agency, to submit a revised plan. The lead agency shall approve or deny approval of the revised misrim management plan within 60 days of receipt. If the lead agency denier approval of the revised iaccim management plan, the operator may appeal that action to the lead agency's governing body, which shall schedule a public hearing within 45 days of the filing of the appeal, or any longer period mutually agreed upon by the operator and the governing body. Unless review of an interim management plan is pending before the lead agency, or as appeal is pending before the lead agency's governing body, a fax mining operation which remains idle for over one year after becoming idle as defiined in Section 2727.1 without obtaining appoval of an interim management plan sha ll be considered abandoned and the operator sha ll commence and com- plets reclamation in accordance with the approvedreclamationplan Any enforcement action which may be brought against a person for opera without an approved reclamation plan, finan- cial assn re; or interim management plan, shall be held in sb y- a cepe:greviewp rsomttosubdivision(b).(c),(d).or(h)orthe resolution of an appeal Sled with the board pursuant to subdivision or with a lead agency governing body pursuant to subdivision •2770.5. Whenever surface mining operations are proposed in the 100-year flood plain for any stream, as shown inZone A of Flood Insurance Rate Maps issued by the Federal Emergency Manage- ment Agency, and within one mile, upstream or of any state highway bridge, the lead agency receiving the application for the issuance of renewal of a Penns to comet the surface mining oparatioas shall notify the Dept of Transportation that the application has bees received. The Department of Transportation shall have a period of not mole that 45 days to review and comoment as the proposed surface mining operations with respect to my potential damage to the state highway bridge from the proposed suface miamg operations. The lad agency shall not isane or re sew she pasait until the Departmentt of Transportation has submitted its cammems at .ail 45 days from the date the application for the permit was subnoitted, whichever ocam first. p2771. Whenever a proposed or existing surfaoa mining opera- Lion is within the jutisdictioa of two or meta public agencies, is a permitted =a within the agsacies. and is not separated by a naneral or maaoude banner coinciding with the boundary of the egandes the evaln.kmof the proposed or existing operation shall be made by the lead agency in accordance with the procedures adopted by the lead agency to Section 2774. If a question anises ss to which public agency is the lead agency, any affected public agency, or the affected operator, may submit the matter to the board. The board shall notify in writing all affected public agencies and opera- ---PAGE BREAK--- yodsresnainmg disuvbed. Po paposes of tttis par*V* . a "Wbiie agency" may include a federal agency. If the lead agency or the board. following a public hewing. determines that the operamr is financially incapable of pa'fornunt reclamation in sccordswe with its approved "CIMAI ion PM or has abandoned its sacfaca mining operate reclamation. either the lead agency or the State Geobtistaha"do all of the following: (1)Notify the operator by paloinal service of certified math that the lead agency at the State Geologist in to take apceopciats action to forfeit the fiisaocial naaances and specify this MISO s for soloing. e Allow the op ator 60 days to aottnaaaee or ca m the aU of tectstaatian in accordance with its approved reclamation plan and require that reclattution be completed wi the time limits specified in the approved reclamation plan or acme other time period mutually speed upon by the lead airy or the State Geologist and the opaasar• to p to Proedtakeap opriateactionregmre ce facfeimaofthe uncial asmuam es if the operator does not substantially is ply with paragraph (4)Use the proceeds front the forfeited financial al to conduct and complete reclamation in accordance with the approved reclamation plan. In no event shall the facial sennanoes by used for any other purpose. The ogaraooa is T for ter ceps of conducting completing reclamation in saaed a acs with die ,ed of tSspeocsed^from the forfeited a) ofi'a shall as a timntogtration, atdihaIIbermlane8.tgfoaMtimst^wti5csdat'6^ the lead agascy, which small be fu nded 0 she opera and IN State Geologist. that heck flat on has bean canp1^ di with the approved teclaanati an plan. If annul operation 1a so Cr ownership is tramferred w media .in, the u Ot asataaaossha firen>surns forcea xisEtsUaatlk* .iedby agency need new financial atwsacaE;lr+e s td: flda is ^osir owner and have been approved by tbt . m with Section 2770. p/ "flis lead agency shall have wd lads of anic` forfeiture ^ x subdivision Howevar, a cams agency pawant to Section 2l744. di. may set b seek forfeiture of fl tartssoca aid ant to subdivatxin jfidi of the t O (1)1 flnw i of dkdaeiree or't6s atielidon- mans of the mining ape i' i b the- J ...JIoo of the Stat. Geoiopst. (2)The lead aistrc,y b been Mai is irig by the Sties Geologist of the finaseiat besp ty of t he *in of the aban- donment of the mining operation for at bm 15 drys. ad has not taken appropriate measures to seek forfeiture of the fhs 1 saw- ances and reclaim the mine sits; and woe of the IoU11wimg has occurred- The lead agency }us begat b^tLocitau^rs Geologist that failure on take appcop im of the fataacial asaauaas or to reclaim the mine Booboo mask .i actions being taken against the lead agency (B)The State Geologist detaett1 nu to there is a violation which amamis to an . . - and substantial ai gernsent to the pobtic health, safety, at to the m*aaemee^E (C)The lead agcy notifies the Stage Geologist in writing that in good faith s to seat fbr wovn of the financial have not been aocce—M. The State Geologist shall Dampl y with vision in seek- ing fotfeitnne of financial asaances and reclaiming mina sites. The board may adopt tegnlatiaeu specifying dial 'ag of aooe medsaisms other than sotety bonds. e ocabl as eight, and amK foals, Which the board detennims am qty available and adequate to -wale reclamation pasuast s° this chap- ter. but t ea a may not loots financial tests. ;2774. Every lead agedcy shall adopt ordinances in scoot- dance with state policy which establish procedures for the review ad Roval of reclanution plea ad Ada[ es and the law=s of a permit m conduct -form o ff. except that any lead agency wittaset an active I W ts' : ntiai ng operation in itsjamisdictianmay d adoptinganiniplesnenzing ordinance weld the filing of a pmt application The ordinances shall establish poce t es *lwtoospvbiict ttaidsh allbepesiodi- caiiyre iewedbyt 0o assure that the oenn a Dominus 10 be in accordance with state • e lead agency shfl iduct' ae inspection of tf opesskn within sin ment he of ieceipt by the lead ademcy of the :Qfsae mittiq operasias's rsFrat VM6 d p to Section 237. solely isd^ onine"badier@r . mitt operationisat bwap4judn.sle dagenc.Y inspec a wafaos n oprrsion le dnuososis.iy c le tar yea. W age. s000docsed by a state- i ` f iii4e diii "°wear' stn icmed landscape schisect. or 10 4 f m, wbo is experienced in land ieclnaation and whe has not been _toyed by the mining in any capacity tiring d gawk s 12 months. All e_ont #aII he oaodeceir rife f, $i *sea developed by die *Wunmt aid spp^vadby*sba 1e . isartshallbesolely bT' for the taronaW* colt _drIL The lead spoeYails-s ttitStm - - 3Q^&Pat ofthainal 'astln1168 ' Thenotiee "'Coat lit a eeitiege ^ I saws compas os with this dap e. I1 .bm:itda soapyo iedamipiaand;dspectian form. and slogs spw f ► Mick aipeeaoff _f ere musing ape tiosa if a4►. Asecw}th dill d raurfaas naarnn$ op^sationhaesrniswditsnsoLmstiouplsn. esndv + • of alt inamim managemeat pin p (4 or N)of Section2?faos bolo- thebosoi or lead any governing body =WW mb.L ..on or of Section 2770, the n000s skit en i 'unload agency shall focw*d to the opsaoor a mpii of tits it m x 6 0copyof tw omipiraed inspae*itm farm. and anysupportingd oC • w don. any imp i1 0t..,msd y dw geologist' civil engineer. r. landscape a che- t. or Limier. prior is spperoing a _fens mining qerss 's reclamation ia} asmmuces. i reviewed by the b y► ad age pasaent b w of Section 2770, or any , the lead agcy shall submit the plant. 7 ---PAGE BREAK--- • Stun Geologist, for review o( the order. If the opersoor does not ition for review within the time limits sat be this subdivision. the Ada satin; administrative penalties shall not be subject to review any court or ageocy. (b)The legislative body of the lead agency or the board shall r'°tify the operator by P vice or coed mail wh it ;1 review the order setimg administrativ e psi ins. Ht reviewing derporant to this section. therec+osdshe cos idoldw'-'md ore the lead sgency+or the State Geologist, as any otherrelevant lance which, in dgme of die legislative body or the bead, .;zldbe considered b effecan ue and implemantthe policies oldie (c)The legislative body or the board may dltm, modify, or set .is, ai whole or is pat. by its oar order. airy order of tars lead mey or the State Geologist sett she pi ' aNN is. ved by the legislative body or the board b this wi. (d)Any ardor of the legislative body or the board lowed under -'division shall become effective upon issuance reof anises operator petition the superior court liar review as provided in xiivision Any order shall be served by personal ser vicar by used mail upon the oparseot. Payment of any nbnim ativs salty which is specified in an order awed alder subdivision (cX all be made to die lead agency or the State Geologist within 30 .s of service of the order, however. the payment shall be bold in interest berg iznpotmd account p the se oltttimi a is 4doa for review Mod p to subdivision (e)Any operator awrie ed b7' aft ardor Tig1ilttiv. iodar the bend issued Dada may teifew or derby filing an tbs st^ecioi' octet a ___dire iii we `d arm 3Q days fallowing the aso m'ca of tlr eu ii: `14i1yaptils by an or of a bad y or Stlits^"iotd-Eiic 217 ,rich the legislative body at i vIi vii iaifab^ -view of the or at the eqieni cow by -iii;&sitarE drain for writ of mandate witldut 30 dais v e ie view. The IMOV sia^ot of S ctl I uhf ii' w tocede+a shill govaa judicial ammo,exo t hatiaeerycaetheaoQts 'col t odpaesut If the operasar doss ithie the tides emit: set by thii ^abt Vii. ?aq^ • the body stuifnot 6t rofc^r. st e^ 27743. The b000ddi E Ii, - _ sub ondaranee is in got use ordinance as gaad^dmew po&y &y ifirOdi- suety meets, of ie___ ss^ias tIg Peo^s^iis `alifomiasacfacen asdro 8ongpi oiiisas tablishe_d by the board pQSitset b this .JL 5i ' *2774.4. If the bead fale that a lead"any Mika ern iaa Aoc+oag in die tieaerat P and which WOOMIihamb)a ad,aedmaybsaeoiied,span ' iron by the I.+Sidamm lair do pep. ua oldie ch ar; ills my Saail ya^, the 01a y dLbaaadlo the eta pd mans to saodoa35of doMb red L. ideL. Aoc helmi than twoezy mMm, dWbn 1.0M 6th oat A Qcsc an nriIIiom one .d i resat t4aa ($UOfA^- 'im many shah be d^poild is it 3at I dng aid K cIri Actual for the (bjPI ri icsdraooaeci6anleeme^aeaan a npaear iris ha fanatic for ir don by tASIMmur Lush ndon how the aacemc eb be object as aQ aids ao—dis de Budget Act w as 1x kW with rarpaa as cn^ asgwdiora dour _ DM0 Nob laird 1 . 11 ---PAGE BREAK--- F CALIFORNIA PETE WILSON, Gover'c' RNOR'S OFFICE OF PLANNING AND RESEARCH T. CA J 1. 1) HERYL SANDERSON ITY OF PALMDALE - - 8306 9TH STREET EAST ALMDALE, CA 93550 ubject: PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE SCH # 87120908 ear SHERYL SANDERSON: The State Clearinghouse has submitted the above named draft ivironinental Impact Report (EIR) to selected state agencies for review. -te review period is now closed and the comments from the responding Lgency(ies) is(are) enclosed. On the enclosed Notice of Completion form you will note that the Clearinghouse has checked the agencies that have commented. Please review the Notice of Completion to ensure that your -omment package is complete. If the comment package is not in order, lease notify the State Clearinghouse immediately. Remember to refer to e project's eight-digit State Clearinghouse number so that we may ispond Please note that Section 21104 of the California Public Resources ode required that: "a responsible agency or other public agency shall only make substantive comments regarding those activities involved in a project which are within an area of expertise of the agency or which are required to be carried out or approved by the agency." Commenting agencies are also required by this section to support their comments with specific documentation. These comments are forwarded for your use in preparing your final EIR. Should you need more formaon or clarification, we recommend that you contact the ommenting agency(ies). This letter acknowledges that you have complied with the State earinghouse review requirements for draft environmental documents, rsuant to the California Environmental. Quality Act. Please contact .chael Chiriatti at (916) 445-0613 if you have any questions ?garding the environmental review process. Sincerely, Christine Kinne Acting Deputy Director, Permit Assistance closures Resources Agency ---PAGE BREAK--- ' f P.rdae neca. Plan EZP f ?almdae Laure S:esAa*a: 383 9t S.C I8O5 2?2-g€13 c Pattnce 93550 CN Los AneLe3 P?.tscI Lecat..i Ane1e Palmdale TouAs: ±1527 &.sas Pgv. - 5uo Twp. - Mjis: $,vr4_ Wm.is Calif rni& Agusdue nAea1 USAF Plant 42 Southecn Pac, Sc nTrou Desu.,,.st Tsp. CEC.A: MOP SimevSubi.i*tz NEPA MOt Othar Ieii cciru c. EIR scx Fuw 1cwnen$ Mi; O Oiis C Or*i EZS OUt EtA LecaI £cUn Ty 2 C Spc Pa siøfii AJUWWJ* gsta Pta Aflu M* Pa P*zonm C.nira Pxt £cu P1i.n Ln Os*oneiu UI. Psiu& Pirmit Cnvmaiu P'an Sm Ps La Ovt iSiiXvsioa. PwcIL Mi. Tract Mi D.v.i..u.M Typs 4C?IS_____ Wa*ct PIcMsL ?I,t WGD 0(!u: £çft ACrU______ Traas Ctca S.ft. Ii: S,,t C Pe. r- w.a - C w Z LJA-= us... Ds*saum.d lit Os.um.it$ AiI*/ViU Z Rood Ptaui!4it; Ssiuss Wy A?tcOaI Ln4 2 LawFrs l4azxd Suc 5'aiimc Wa Siyi4wai. Z Af QvssatY X Ci.'ovciS.anic S. Caacu W.JL '.rc*4is*oral 2 Soil EA.sc Casq iuir' wI&:i C c z. 2 z Solid wsa&. O,IwII liim& Z 2 P oivlloiioit; 8alaics Tos4s*ad.ijf _ LtimiciJo Z Pib*it Sr.ioovacwuss Z Tra(ficiCuc C vu z.soiaou.--- - p,.s.n$ L..nd Us 2oit4n.jC.n.rod Ptsn Usu Var IO3 The Gunersi PLan foc the Cy ofov.cc 111.527 acrea cor3iar_ir.g of tnt City and t3 sphere of nftuence, loat.a itt th AeLop. Va.ley. ement3 of the General PLan include: Lana Ua.Nti4e M0u3L.lg. Circula:on. Pulc Services Entr,rtm.ntaL Resot:ces ac S CARNGHOTJS! CONTACT: Torn L.oftus (916) 445-0613 STATE UVI!V ftGA)ls DZP! REV TO AGaICY: &GDCY ELY TO SC! s sca CONPZ.LA$C* Qft SETI PIlLS! POWA!D 1A?f COIfTS DTLY TO TU LLD 1DCY om. i:itrsaa #7 £4KDIáJCD* (Rs.ouzcss sri - __t1th - sent by load I " - tint by SCI) ---PAGE BREAK--- S.uc Cc.inrcuse. W 1nu Sre. CA 1T-5..D63 [scli. 97 L2)9O '3 tJ Ctty of Pamdat. General Plan DEIR C.cy f Patmdale c.p,n t.aurte LiLa 0 38iO 9th Street Last 16031 272-9613 Palodale 9--55O (.Q3 Anodes - - R. Jacob; P,..ct Leech... Los knael.s c,t.s.uco....wy Palodala CouS.wu 1oi&IAo 111.527 s Pe , T's. *e.e 138 California Agu.duet naeijrsl dalria.1 USAF Plant 42 Southern Pac Ss: nUeOUS D.cwneet Typ. CEGA: CMOP NIPS: 4Ol OhIl.r SiWlSM E,tCora E1P,.a,SCHP4.j CEA C .s C Ou C sIt £13 C /1 ( Ciii.n Pr tJ%ms Spiciuc Pt. C *nen, C A,wisexi.. C..wu Pt. i.,.u C Mute, Pta. 0 Pisia.. li4gv*ja. Pta' Elrn.w C Pi u. a " C Caou Pei.. pta. pta. t Peesh Mae. 1t. M* at.) D.v.l.nat.$ tys Eu,d.ute*: Wiat Patóu Tp. WGD _ Acres 0fr.c $eft._ Ac,ts 1twaa. : C.ivatsak$i,,$. Acres Q Mvw.ç Seft _ Ac'., iste.a.s_____ Peeu Tp : C w sev.s Osavsm.d In D.sua...$ 2 M,Ui/".uai 11usd W QuIsy Lrd Per... Lsid.!w. IIuad S.yu. Syatme Wear kuyC.ou 2 r Q..is. 2 G.sio,c/Ss..at Cap.ay 2 i,cul...aI14iaat..M 2 Sod W94js C.u.M Z..v 2 seIAs.ryIan E,a.ucsJes. 2 Nets. Solid Wa.. 2 -i P. ..vNowir; Id..cu 1.**M Puble $e,rc.V!s.thusI C If.. 2 L d U Z I Vari s l P1 Us G ou . P,.unt ae ou n.j .ee,. ,tçC .io c - c ve- p,.j..t The General Plan for the City of Pa a covers 111.527 A acres consisting of the City and its spher, of influence, Located In th 7Wt Antelope Va'.L.y. eInents of the G.n.ral Plan include: Land Us..Noise. Housing. Circulation, PubLic Services nvirnnm.ntaL Resouces. and Safety. GHOU3! CONTACT To. Lot to. (916) 3-06l3 tEVIEW 1A5t f TO ACVICTs UV TO SCI , tP1.WICE FOEWAID L4TZ 0IITS Dfl.ThT TO TU LIAD AGCT OILY 'LI c/f jLce = .DWR. b 5 JCDs (Resource. - ltd - leslth i.nt b, Iced I ' - sent W IcR) an sar ay sir ---PAGE BREAK--- State of California MEMORANDUM To : Director State Clearinghouse Office of Planning and Research 1400 Tenth Street Sacramento, CA: 95814 From : Office of the Secretary The Resources Agency Date : 9/18/92 Subject: Agency Comments Attached are individual comments of depa entI'boards, or commissions within The Resources Agency re9uested by your State Clearinghouse Notice of Completion and Environmental Document Form on the subject item(s). Agencies responding to your request are listed below. Attachment(s) Resources Date: SCH# Department Comment 8 08 92 87120908 CONS NO RESPONSE DWR COMMENT F&G NO RESPONSE S LANDS NO RESPONSE ---PAGE BREAK--- ty of Lancaster 33 North Fern Avenue caster, California 93534-2461 723-6OOO :tember 22, 1992 nie Lile of Palmdale nning Department 306 9th Street East mda1e, California 93550 ject: City of Palmdale General Plan Draft Environmental Impact Report rLawie: 0 G.crg. Lee Roci Rev. Henry W. K.ns vs- Frank C. Roberts Counn Arnie Rodlo Cn George Runne Com JamesC. GUIy c*y Mm ink you for the opportunity to review the Draft EIR for the proposed General Plan. Attached are nments from the Traffic Division of the Department of Public Works regarding transportation I circulation. Please contact Tim Bochum at (805) 723-6048 if you have any questions arding the attached comments. cerely, san J. Barnett vironmental Coordinator parnnent of Community Development achment Timothy Bochum ---PAGE BREAK--- £Y1L4 £VL'.J LCi 'L1 ) VA City of Lancaster, California Date: September 22, 1992 To: Susan Bamett Environmental Coordinaxor From: Timothy Scott Bochum Assistant Traffic Engineer Subject: CITY OF PALMDALE, GENERAL PLAN E.I.R. COMMENTS The following concerns should be addressed by the City of PalirKlale prior to adoption of this document. TRANSPORTATION AND CIRCULATION The following roadway classifications do not conform to the City of Lancastefs Master Plan of Highways. CLASSIFICATION CLASSIFICATION AvenueL West of 90th StW Major/Minor Regional (120' R/W) 90th St W North of Avenue M Major Regional 50th St W North of Avenue M Major Regional 20th St E North of Avenue L Major Regional 80th St W North ofAvenue M Minor Major 70th St W North of Avenue M Minor Major Avenue M 30th St W to Regional Major Challenger Way These roadways should be verified for compliance with the current C.O.P. naffic model and SCAG sketch plan performed in 1990. At a minimum, roadway segments contained wider our jurisdicrion should conform to our existing plan. L.A TRANSITIDIAL.A.RIDE/COMMUTER SERVICES All references should be made pertaining to the Antelope Valley Transit Authority as providing L these services. DAVE'S Transportation Company is the current conrractor and reference to them . - should be removed from this document. ---PAGE BREAK--- 23920 Va1enca Bivd. Phone 300 eptember 23, 1992 tssocit!.. r: £almdale Planning Department 38306 9th Str Paimdale, C. U: Coents on oi Pa1a.. :.ft General Plan and Draft aent port Dear k. Thank you for the opportunity to review t ve-referenced documents for their potential impacts to y of Santa Clarita. Our primary concern in reviewing 'cuments i the impact of future growth in the } area and sw-rounding environs on regional traffic corri. 'ely, the ':elope Valle'r Freeway, Sierra Highway, an • th. beyond vbat hab addressed in t1 draft Ger,ral P1" an identified foL.owing specific concerns and 1. c/Land Use. a. Residential densities are given as ranges. Does thel traffic model assume the maximutr 'esidential density? ! not, what densities at affic model based on? Does the analysis fac. Valley (L.ty of] Lancaster and Los An. ig term plans? b. The Draft General Plan states that 34% of Palmdale residents commute (a majority of which are employed within the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles Basin). However, the draft General Plan does not identify any of the transportation corridors between the Antelope Valley and the Santa Clarita Valley for improvements. In particular, the traffic model 2. assumes that Highway 14 has four lanes in each direction (page C-4l), although the majority of the freeway currently has only two lanes in each direction. We are not aware of any plans of Cal-Trans to make such improvements any time in the near future. ---PAGE BREAK--- c. As we have stated in the past, we f Ritter Ranch and City Ranch projects, i viii. affect local and regional t. systems. Bouquet Canyon Road is likely substantial number of vehicle trips h morning and evening peak hours, however, briefly addressed in the Draft General PIx not shown on the Circulation Plan (Exhibit d. The City of Santa Clarita supports the th. of alternative forms of transportation to t - passenger vehicle. Rovever, we do not fee. increase in commuter transportation services a1r will alleviate worsening congestion problems. Tb ra General Plan indicates that incentive prot& 1isbent of Foreign Trade and Enterprise vili. be deveicd to promte industrial - nt (they oing the ks/housing Suck pro%r1Ls .ippear to . 'g range gc and do not rrent o.ems. The dft GP i. Plan fr ,01i tional new t 1992 and 1i11 have a 87rse impt on regione. ion corridors in the nesr future. 2. Evaluation for consistency with SCAG $CAQ as. such as the Regional Mobility Plaz includad in the EIR for mitigation of potentia t inpacts. 3. 3ad our rviev of tt'e EIR., do not fet. th.t. all iaiacts h&ve ben. uat addresaed and can be mitigated to a Jesa thin si level. We have idet:id these that may have significant regiouL a. bcve. however, we have not addressed issues which we reel have a less than regional impact. if you would like for us to elaborate on these issues, we will be happy to do so. Again, thank you for your consideration of our comments. If there are any questions regarding the City's concerns, please do not hesitate to call me at (805) 253-4330. Sincerely, / Lynn K. Harris Deputy City Manager Community Development 522 cc: Dave Vannatta, Planning Deputy, County of Los Angeles, 5th Di3tr Jim Harti, Director, Los Angeles County Regional Planning ---PAGE BREAK--- IOVTIS*U C$UFOUI* Viociineeoisov.eminu Seventh Street,12th Floors Los Angeles, California 900174435 (213) 236-1800. FAX (213) 236-1825 OM%*l fl).I September21, 1992 t4I 4ltk. - - . Ms. Laune Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department v, 38306 9th Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 ifl(..uw Comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the City of Palnidale General Plan. SCAG No. 19200069 u't ri . v.w.. Dear Ms. L.ile. . !cmai.km' C ,.arn.. S Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the Draft General Plan i*frfl. for the City of Palmdale. As areawide clearinghouse for regionally significant projects, SCAG assists cities, counties and other agencies to review projects and plans for consistency with the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RBNA), the Regional Mobility Plan (Rid?), Growth Management Plan (OMP), and conformity with the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP), all of which are included in the State Implementation Plan (SIP). SCAG has a profound Interest in the type and trend of development that is occurring In the North Los Angeles County subregion. The City is on the edge of a development boom with a potential to be an example to the region in terms of growth patterns. With approximately 80 percent of the planning area vacant, development of the City could completely change the character of the subregion. The development and absodon of thesepecU will influence growth trends by generating new housing and jobs. in order to ensure that new development meets , regional plans, the City of Palmdale must address balanced growth (in terms of . jobs/housing), air quality, adequate infrastructure, public services, and open space. ( The attached comments are meant to provide guidance for addressing the • proposed General Plan within the context of our regional goals and plans. which are based In part upon state and federal mandates. While the City is not required . to undertake the specific actions recommended by SCAG or other agencies through the Inte Governmental Review Process, there are requirements in state and federal laws r consistency with regional goals and plans. r u XI* S.S.p.PW Las Aegs$N casas e U $dd SrWa. al Ktw* Rs, 5qv'w • ssps Couu a Vasquas. 5i.pvruuP • C a M DSupr..r. S $cstae Caaty o *ary Wamis'. $fWaer • Vcssi,s Csy e Pwow. z'w ur MepunL Ceui, i .Ir.. .V,n, P,i, We,jmoi.eds ci* . i.as A5sss Csues o Led. $pwsW • Øgi siw- • s*k4yI PIuine,. Cn.se ØvpiI c( *ziir*4 C.uaiy a (VU • Odsi IC Su $iias Casao Vav Dlgsui, Mi Lams s Vt Cas' • Ik. v.u. • City IC La. Es Aissirs, Sils Waw,a, Cbusrè,po OsI Was, C meurmrP • :.mg 8c*t eu.I., -mor.4. C-,rnr,,rml,p, M Lana a Gears. '4akas., *irnrl(ma'ts,p e CstdIA Nail_sri. r:,rum,m,.r. San , j,,v WrtPit. ---PAGE BREAK--- Letter to Ms Laurie tile City of Palmdale Draft Genersi Plan September 21, 1992 Page 2 SCAG appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Draft EIR for the City of Palmdale Genera' Plan. SCAO's policy level review will be initiated with the presentation of the proposed project to SCAG's Local Assistance and Compliance Committee (LACC) on October 1, 1992. If you have any questions about the attached comments, please contact Manuel Gurrola at (213) 216-1907 He will be contacting you to invite you to partcipaze in the October 1st LACC meeting. Sincerely. (2AWeI 4. hL.t ARNOLD I. SHERWOOD, Ph.D. Director Forecasting, Analysis and Monitoring. Enclosure: Summary of Transportation Control Measures ---PAGE BREAK--- Letter to Ms. Laurie Lila City of Dsaft General Plan September 21, 1992 SCAG Co1EflS ON T DLrr ENVON4TAL IMPACT RIPORT FO& TEE CITY OF PALMDALE DRAFr GENERAL PLAN DESCRIPTION Page 3 The proposed Palmdale General Plan (*Plan) is a comprehensive update for the City to become a self-sufficient, mixed-use community. Buildout will eventually convert 88,630 acres of vacant and open space lands into various types of suburban development. The Plan identifies the types of development that will be allowed, the spatial relationships among land uses, and the general pattern of future development. The Plan study area consists of the City of Palmdale (approximately 78 square miles) and an exisnng Sphere of Influence (approxImately 96 square miles). The Plan study area encompasses a total of 174 square miles. LOCATION The City of Palmdale Is located In the central portion of the Antelope Valley in northern Los Angeles County, approxImately 60 mIles north of dc :itown Los Angeles. Immediately north of Palmdale is the City of Lancaster; the San Fernando Valley lies 35 miles to the southwest along the Antelope Valley Freeway (SR-14). GROWTh MANAG14T There are a number of regionally significant master planned communities within the City of Palmdale that are currently in various phases of project development and/or processing. The projects include Ritter Ranch, City Ranch, Santa Fe Hills, and Rancho Vista. The pattern of urban development and land use proposed in the Plan will increase Infrastructure construction and require new facilities or expansion of existing ones as Indicated in the Draft EIR for the Plan. Additionally, the City has been aggressively annexing undeveloped land adjacent to the City. This pattern of development lll be extremely extended, both geographically and temporally, which will cause significant problems with Local, as well as regional infrastructure. ---PAGE BREAK--- Letter to Ms. Laurie Lila Page 4 City of Palmdale Draft General Plan September 21, 1992 The City is located in the North Los Angeles Su'egion, a housing rich subregion. At buildout of the proposed Plan, the City anticipates 139 .U5 housing units and 594,178 jobs. This results n a 4.26 jobs/housing balance ratio. TI.s will move the City from its current status of a sousing rich area to that of a jobs rich rea4 SCAG encourages the City to move tord this direction in a phased and consistent rnner in terms ofjobs producing development and housing development. Wastewater Treatment At buildout, the Draft EIR estimates that 113 mgd of wastewater is expected to be generated by the Plan. Currently, the Los Angeles County Sanitation District No.20 (LACSD 20) treats 8.0 ngd and is undergoing expansion to increase capacity to 15 mgd. However, even if this expansion to 13 mgd is accomplished, the County Treatment Plant will not be able to effectively process. treat, and dispose of local eff1ue.t. It is essential that the Plan be phz ed In Plant and GM? in terms of popu atlon in Appendix IV-G of the AQMP 3 me .'ot be possible to serve the Clt with he type of development the P1a' pros Water SuIy xordance with the expansion of the County Treatment nd that the conformity requirements of Chapter Three Unless a finding of conformity can be made, it may wage treatment facilities that are necessary to support Water supply is also an issue of cots em in term' of growth management. Most importantly, the Antelope Valley-East Kern Watt Agency ha. documented that there will not be sufficient water available for ultimate buildout / the Plans n Palnidaic and Lancaster. Additionally, the Draft EIR states that significant r systems Lmprovements will be required to provide an adequate water supply to the dlsrased developrnet.ts in the City. Required mitigation measures will reduce the Plai"s impacts; however, ignificant Individual and cumulative impacts :o thc regional water remain. Recommendations From a regior' perspe ti the City needs to address the Impact approval of the Plan will have on local. sub' egiona. at d regional plans to balance growth with the provision of transportation facilities ano other w sa xy public Infrastructure. The California Environmental Quality A. requires that EZRa iist ass any Inconsistencies between the proposed project and the applicab regional plans as ,el1 ts 1 ical general plans (Section 15125 [bD. 5CA - ---PAGE BREAK--- _ - I ) '4 , . N. £ N. . - .at1er to Nts. Laurie !4ile Page 5 ity of Palmdale Dra t Gen.. al Plan $eptember 21, 1992 Mention should ' made of any Initiative by the City of Palrndale to enter into arrangements with the City A Lancaster to address growth management planning. This is one of the key Ck programs of the Growth Management Plan and should be considered as a possible mitigation 4 measure thc traffic and circulation Impacts of the Draft General Plan. The Cl'1 of 'almdale should attempt, In so far as possible, to ensure that the following o.jccti ies ax' satised: o The Plan must adequately address and resolve issues related to the provision of 6 wastewater treatment. These facilities are sized and phased in accordance with ' ' the G and AQMP. This may result in the need to re-examine the Plan alternatives and facility bUild-out schedules. o The Plan must adequately address and resolve the issue of water supply and service. This will result in the need to examine available water supply and the resulting impact from this Plan and the proposed City of Palmdale General Plan. *1 REGIONAL MOBILITY The Antelope Valley Freeway serves as major north-south lin1ge between the Antelope Valley and the San Fernando Valley and the Los Angeles basin. The freeway serves both intra- regional, as well as inter-regional travel and commerce. It Is Important to note that no alternate major freeway corridors parallel the Antelope Valley Freeway (although, Sierra Highway does extend from the City to the 1-5/Antelope Valley Freeway Interchange in the south). Thus, the freeway is pivotal to the mobility requirements associated with the Antelope Valley. The Antelope Valley Freeway In the City of Palmdale currently operates at LOS F during the evening peak hour In the northbound direction. This poor level of service is due to the high volume of traffic entering the region during the PM peak hour. Level of Service F indicates significant levels of congestion r motorists and greatly reduced speeds Similar congestion is experienced along the seine segment, In the southbound direction, during the morning peak hour. The Antelope Valley Freeway operates at LOS C In the plan study area. Similar congestion is experienced on Sierra Highway In the City which also operates at LOS F during the same time frames. Sierra Highway operates at LOS C In the plan study area. These results Indicate that f.tture development as proposed In the Antelope Valley would have a significant adverse impact on the Antelope Valley Freeway and that it will be difficult to maintain acceptable peak-hour service levels even with the proposed expansion of the Antelope Valley to four-lanes In each direction. ---PAGE BREAK--- Letter to Ms. Laurie Lila City of Palmdale Draft General Plan September 21, 1992 Page b Recommendations The IinaI EIR needs to closely examine the cumulative impacts of increased VMT to traffic on the Antelope Valley Freeway from regional growth based on the Cities of Palmdale and Lancactcr Paimdale proposed General Plans. AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT The City of Palmdale is part of the Southeast Desert Basin. However, according to the SCAQMD, the AQMP applies to any basin within its jurisdiction that Is not meeting federal ar pollution standards. Therefore, the policies and procedures In the 1991 AQMP apply to the Antelope Valley. SCAG's review of the project indicates the Plan will generate significant adverse air quality impacts that have not been properly addressed in the Draft E. The expected growth based on the cumulative buildout projections is expected to be 336,354 housing units with a population of 974,510 persons. This growth assumption was not projected in the GMP and in the AQMP. The DEIR does not properly address this issue and the resulting adverse air quality impacts at the regional level. Carbon Monoxide Modeling The Draft EIR indicates that background levels used for the analysis are (torn 1987, the 5CA SCAQMD can provide current da for a more accurate air quality setting. The EMFAC7D analysis indicates a Home-Work trip length of 8.8 miles and a Home-Other trip ength of 5.2 miles. These uip are tow compared to the region average projected in the , RMP. The final BR needs to provide additional information and support for this assumption. Until such time, It Is difficult to *ssei.s the validity of the modeling and resulting emission project ions. SCACz in consultation with the transportation agencies, the EPA, the PHWA, the SCAQMD, and other interested parties, established guidelines for CO analysis. The City should incorporate the 'Carbon Monoxide Protocolu when adopted in Winter 1992 for subsequent analysis of transportation projects in the City. ---PAGE BREAK--- .etter to Ms. Laurie tile Page 7 ity or Pakndale Draft Genera! Plan September 21, 1992 V Increased Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and congestion result in higher emissions. putting additional strain on energy resources. Recently the SCAQMD incorporated SCAG's recommendation to reduce VMT to provide air-quality benef4s equivalent to those obtainable 4' by a balance of jobs and housing within subregions. The VMT goal Is to be reached by locally chosen means (including jobs/housing balance); this gives the City of Palmdale more flexibility in meeting the clean-air requirements through land-use strategies. The Plan does not project V MT at buildout. This issue needs to be addressed in the final EIR. Transportation Control Measurea The Draft EJR for the Plan states that the Transportaton Control Measures (TCMs) from the AQMP will be used as mitigation measures. All TCMs are applicable to City of Palmdale, in accordance with the Federal Clean Air Act, to reduce VMT and vehicle trips. However in a recent survey done by SCAG through the County Transportation Commissions, indicated that of the 17 control measures, the City is currently implementing TCM 2a) Rideshare Incentive and TCM 2f) HOV Facilities, the City wilt implement by the end of 1992 TCM 2e) Auto Use Restriction and is considering Implementing TCM 4) Traffic Flow Improvements. SCAG encourages the City to monitor the 'expeditious implementadon* of the TCMs and to include the TCMs in a general plan Air Quality Element and/or action plan. One of the advantages of updating a local general plan in a manner which snakes it consistent with the AQMP and other regional plans is that It triggers a change in SCAG's IGR procedures. The process for determining general plan conformity with the AQMPISIP is described in Chapter jV of SCAG's Guidelines for the Development of Local Air Quality Elements published in March. 1990. SCAG encourages that the City of Palrndale to develop an Air Quality Element utilizing the following steps: ) Adopt appropnate General Plan provisions that includes objectives consistent with the AQMP and Air Quality Element Guidelines. ) Make a commitment to implement the appropriate local government measure. from the AQMP identified in the Guidelines and AQMP. ) Adopt any necessary changes to the General Plan Update to make the plan internally consistent with the Air Quality Action Plan. ---PAGE BREAK--- Letter to Ms. Laurie tile Cay of Pahndale Draft General Plan September 21, 1992 Page 8 ) Approve a schedule and assign staff responsibilities for impLementing the adopted local air quality objectives consistent with the AQMP and the Guidelines. 5 i Determine that the City has been making reasonable further progress toward :rnplementing the local government measures in the AQMP as measured by the annual Reasonable Further Progress Reports. These steps are necessary for self certification and once completed, the City of Lancaster can notify SCAG and obtain a delegation of responsibility for reviewing regionally significant general development projects on its own behalf. Conforn)ity with the State Implementation Plan (SIP) . project is found to conform with the SIP when It has satisfied the following three criteria: 1. ft improves the subregion's jobs/housing balance performance ratio. 2. It reduces vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled to the maximum extent feasible by implementing TDM strategies. 3. Us environmental document Includes an air quality analysis which demonstrates that the project will not have a significant negative impact on air quality in the long term. Findings The proposed Plan will have a positive impact on jobs/housing balance in the North Los Angeles - subregion. SCAG does not concur with the Draft EIR that it is able to mitigate the adverse effects of ct increased transportation demand to a level ofinsignificance. There is no Transportation Demand Management/Trip Reduction Ordinance included in the proposed general plan. SCAG finds the proposed Plan to not conform with the SIP at this time. The Plan does reduce vehtcle trips and vehicle miles traveled to the extent feasible, however It does not mitigate the effects on air quality to a less than significant level. The proposed Plan significantly contributes to violations of CO. NOx and ROG standards and, therefore, would not conform with the AQMP under the 1990 Federal Clean Air Act Amendments. Lc. ---PAGE BREAK--- Letter to Ms Lausle Lila City of Palmdale Draft General Plan September 21, 1992 Page 9 Pnor to considering approval of the Plan, the following Issues should be addressed by the City of PaImdale: o The final EIR CO analysis should use the latest California Air Resources Board (ARB) emissions factor model, EMFAC1E. Negative impacts from dust emissions due to the proposed construction should be evaluated in the final E!R. The fInal EIR should get more cwTern air quality da from the SCAQMD. The final EIR should clarify how the project would adequately decrease the level of service or maintain an acceptable LOS on surrounding streets. The Draft EIR does not discuss or quantify emission benefits or reduction of emissions as a result of this project. The cwnuladve impacts are not properly addressed and mitigated in the Draft EIR. The final R should consider significant attention to regional air quality as result from increased traffic. o The purpose of the Plan is for the City to become a mixed-use community which would provide housing and employment opportunities, and help redress the jobs/housing balance in the subregion. SCAG recommends that the City of Palmdale establish an appropriate phasing schedule in order to ensure a consistent sizing and service phasing with regional and to ensure compliance with the AQMP/STP and the 1990 Federal Clean Air Act. o The Draft EIR fails to address the median costs of homes within the City in relation to the incomes of the persons who will be employed in the City of Palmdale and the effect of this relationship upon commute patterns and air quality. o Lack of wastewater treatment capacity to serve the Plan. The Draft E fails to adequately address the wsstewater conformity requirements of the AQMP/STP. Expansion or consction of wastewater treatment facilities to serve this Plan could be jeopardized by a lack of consistency with the GMP. o Unresolved circulation, traffic and transportation Issues. Although a TDM ordinance will be prepared upon adoption of the CMP, the City must incorpor&te the Transportation Control Measures (TCMs) listed In the AQMP to alleviate the burden that the Plan will impose on the circulation and transportation systems within the community and the region In accordance with the FCAA. TCMs will substantially reduce passenger vehicle trips and miles traveled per trip, asst in achieving an average of 1.5 or more persons per passenger vehicle by 1999 (as required in the AQMP)I and not allow a net Increas, in vehicle emissions after 1991 in accordance with the CCAA. CA 2D iI U...rw. ---PAGE BREAK--- t'C1ARY 2.,J* Q.AUTY W4AGVT PLA' tAQ) UPtiDIX tV.G. WTTN D1.JZ DATES FROM TRZ LAQMP, A?PCIDIX lvi LOCAL GOVØMV'ft CONTROL UASU3 TO U 1DW'1T IV DCDER 31, 1992 CONThOL ASUR&LI - CUW'W4TA11ON *crivrry ri DATE ri 1991 19*9 AQW WITE AQMP AsWilD?iWTS N 1991 AQ1Q) Is. AMrWivs Work Week* and Implement 10% work ip reducdo. December 31, 1992 Flezzim. projrsm for local joveramet employees. Adopt work schedule ordloanco Deeeber 31, im to rtqaus 10% work p reducdon as a coaditLoi of bosinei lice*as or permit for new dsvelopmcaa. Local government moctor progrea, report Annually - toSCAG uausfly. TII000mmuoacthoas Adopt program tot Itlicommunsca. December 31, 1992 tions/work at borne strategies to reduce local g seat employees work by 20%. Adept Trip *eduetic December 31. 1992 Ordinance CTRO) reducing employ.. wait Employer Ldesbuc £ Iran. Adopt ardlunr to recur. uipr.ducoa - December 31. 1992 sit incentives plan. for focilitie. with tenane employing more than 100 employees Adopt ordinances to require focliltiss em- Inly 1,1991 playing 75.99 employees to disseminate Os nip r.ducdos Evaluate sifeedveness at reducing July I, 1992 l.v.1 threold *025+, If asesasary, by July 1, I993,espandlq. XViosov.t 2 Parlang Management Local p srest adapt Air Esmuis to December 31, 1992 (p I. nsa ccl. General Plans and/ct Mopt eroori*ts ima m.ndsd to ladicam local ordinance whick will apply as appropriate to government to make shale.. th. following pro$ramE from a asia at programs. 19*9 AQUP T.acreais daytime parking fee flat.) EstablI* mrsbargs at parking tot sing). oc.upsm vebiciss Eliminate peakpsn ons*reet psrkii$ ElIminia 100% employer subsidized park. - 0$ .a ---PAGE BREAK--- SU\ CSL4.RY LI2 41 QL3.L.TY ACET PLAS PPED1X £V.G. '*TTR Dtt DATES fROM TBZ Lj AQZG, A?P4DLX IV.E LOCAL GOVUNMENT CONTROL MZASURZ3 TO U CLW4T IY DEER 31. 1992 CONTROL ?.ASUUf1TILE Th1PtEW4TA11ON ACI1VITY N 19$9 AQMP WITH (SPEarith AQ1bQ ADMU4T N 1991 AQ 2.b. Parkia Maoq.m. EpLoytripoo.orad p,.tstw.ial to, (coit) ridc3baters R.sidestW park jzooe. pstit p,o,rsa 2.4. Mcnbaut Traaaponalc. Adopt aca-work trip rcducdoi ordiuocu December 31, 1992 hceutvu rIQ)I1 Oare rs1 estabIl*b' meat.) to offer cuomer mod.-ebft vsv.1 AutO *.su4cdcto Adapt alt quality slemeato ato Oesre1 31, 1992 Provide e.kaucM aasft performsoce sad No dato svasbilty Is auta-rcsv(ctod zoacs. 2.s. Traaait 1prov. Thai. accas, prasma, wWcb lisnalal, TtP. will be or soapletad ia4sv 19914992 or preseta m41ag capabilitisa are is s 'coarsloed prorsm (Tier D. 3.s. Truck Dtatcbiag, lucked. MopS local Air Quality Elemests Is Osoeral D,c.mbc, 31, 1992 ulinl. £ *rouIs* Plaas, aludlag improved truck roatiag, d.1ivst bcduliag sad áippiag/r.ceivlag Adapt local otdiøsacew7(OUs to 1ctli*to ecsmber 31, 1992 Improved Duck romiag sod delivery scb.d- uliss 4. TraMc Flow Improveasata Local govsrumsat impIcae* siea1 syuckro 19*9-1993 aud iatsrsictoa ebsamlifatios. S. P4oatscurrni Coqe1os Noar.currsat coqestloa dsil* sod provsm 19*9-1 93 Isproveasa 5. Airpot Orad Mcuc L.oc*l $owroa.aZ Airport Operators' ntis linus 1, 1991 by 1waa' 1, 1992, $CAQMD adopt ladi. root source ntis to reduce e number o(s.r pae*ir auto trips jvasrsted by airports ii ati Cousolidedos to Reducs Local overnmsats establisk aspirate joist 11 uary 1,1993 Grad. Croisiop powers nuthoitty to deveLop consolidated comdor from Las AogsIss to San Peat Aegeles ad t.oag kick sod Dscsasbsr 31, 1992 asker species so obtais anaclog 2 -s ---PAGE BREAK--- 3t" CL4.RY L22 J1 QLALLTY .LAGEMLT ?L'4 AQ) ,PPED(X WTTN DUE DATES FROM TILE AQM?, A PtD1X W4 LOCAL GOUTh4ENT CONTROL LE4SUkES TO IE ThLF. ET IY DECEZ.ØER 31. 1992 CONTROL L4TA'AON ACTIVTFY N DUE DATE 4199l 19$9 AQ1* WFr. 5?EO AQ!W A?VtMDi' 4 1991 AQ?Q) 12.L Pived sod Japaved Rood. Loc*i govct*r.4ts develop $ 'clean recc.' Deceab., 31. 1992 nod Psráag aaugccr program 17. Growth Maugemem U991 AQMP) (Note, th* no due daLes m be 1991 AQMP r Meaaur 17 were seos 'e wirdtoAUsMP'Au dm.oss so i 190 AQMP Mesnars 17 cbaog. .ub.taasiiuly Li the 1991 QMP r .zampl.. tb p.-agrapbs in the aezt wsr addM.) Local veromena amend general plans, sde,s ordinances and develop Lasarregiosal 4reeents 10 sstaaa growth msgemeos goals at be .bregoea1 livel cousansos with tbe Growib Management Local governments adopt ruohuios contaIn. leg action plans wb1cb: a. Clarify the work jw4adictioas will cam. mm to do is ordar mptemensMcamre 17. b. be local j4tios's • so amending LU general plan, developmg as iaplam.Mq plan, sad/ac adopting ordinances by December 31. 1994, so Implement Mismate 17. Local governments develop laterreglonal agriemeata to tunis growth pet*rmanca -z coasimmnt with th. Creth Management Plan (see Table 1.1). Sanitation dlatzicti advise lecaljurl.dlctio.e is implementation of the growth .inage meat polio. lapkmengjuriidktlom muat cosa themselves so attali the goals atasod above. Ii Is semamed thaz 3at*.a now sod December 31, 1994, te% of th idictia. comprWag 0% of onalpoptalados aM 40% ofthe regional employment wil have d.mos seated theIr commitment sad Sy December 31. 1997, 100% of the ji4Micdos will bays commlued them- aelves to a the goals .f this mis- December31, 1994 December 31, 1992 December 31, 1994 ---PAGE BREAK--- PE VALLEY ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY, INC. Office Box 4514 • Lancaster, California 93539 September 19, 1992 Ms Laurie Lile Associate Planner City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 9th Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 Dear: Laurie: On behalf of the membership of the Antelope Valley Archaeological Society and our Environmental Review Committee I thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the City's General Plan Update and accompanying EIR. Our major concern is with the proposal of Policy KR?. 1.4: Develop and maintain a cultural sensitivity map. Require special studies/surveys to be prepared for any development proposals in areas reasonably suspected of containing cultural resources, or as indicated on the sensitivity map. Our concerns remain the same as voiced at the April Planning Commission meeting. 1. Historically sensitivity maps have been misused by many agencies resulting in the destruction of known resources which did not appear on their maps. 2. This is a step backwards from the previous draft of the General Plan Update which called for surveys or special studies of any project in an area not adequately covered by a previous study. (This is the recommendation of the Information Centers established by the State Office of Historic Preservation.) 3. The General Plan and EIR identifies all topographic areas as of "moderately high" or "high" sensitivity. Based on this determination sites are likely to occur in any part of the planning area. (The greatest concentration of potential historic structures is between Ave P and Ave T between Division and 70th Street East.) The City has (or had) special study guidelines which eliminated the likelihood of /vA5 41 ---PAGE BREAK--- requiring unnecessary studies of small inf ill projects not likely to contain historic or I archaeological resources will providing for studies I of projects over 5 acres or known to contain cultural J resources. How wifl this sensitivity map be prepared and maintained? How will it differ from the archaeological site maps the Planning Department already has which contain many of the known and recorded sites in the planning area? On page ER-60 of the Draft General Plan (7/27/92) under the discussion of "constraints which may affect environmental resource management in Paladale" constraint 1* 8 identifies lack of information as an "obstacle to the preservation of cultural resources. This obstacle can be greatly reduced by requiring cultural resource studies/surveys of all projects in areas not covered adequately by previous studies as advocated in a previous draft of the General Plan Update, recommended by the Information Centers, and requested by our membership. We again refer to the special study guidelines which the planning department had in place this past spring for making determinations of when a study is necessary. Exhibit 3-55 is misleading. Not all of the shaded areas in this Sensitivity Map have been surveyed. Much of the planning J area still needs to be adequately surveyed by qualified archaeologists. In addition to the educational qualifications normally required we believe that familiarity with the I Western Mojave Desert Cultural Area is an important j qualification. Table H-i entitled "Potential Historic Structures" is not an exhaustive list and should not be treated as such. The parenthetical statement in the second listing (which reads "Address would place it near the Valley Press") belongs with another listing. The last listing on page H-i which reads "Single-family houses south side of Avenue Q-10 between 10th Street East and 9th Street East" and identified as dating from the 1930's is incorrect. According to the APN records there is one 1938 structure, two 1920's (1920 & 1924) structures, and a 1913 Sadler Block house in that block. The 1913 and 1920 houses were owned by Sadler family members. Table 3-26 entitled "Public Park Facilities" identifies a 10 acre undeveloped park site at the northeast corner of Avenue S and the alignment of 22nd Street East called "Avenue S Park". This location is part of the original "Old" Palmdale Cemetery property which originally consisted of ±20 acres not the less than 3 acres currently fenced. It is very likely that there are numerous burials outside the fenced portion which are not presently marked. This possibility should be explored before the property is developed. A ---PAGE BREAK--- The biological resources section does not mention the golden eagles which forage and probably nest within Palmdale's planning area. This is a protected species and should be considered among those species which may be affected by increased development. We challenge the statement on page 5-9 that "Proposed mitigation measures and programs will allow for the maximum preservation and mitigation through salvage when necessary for these resources. Impacts will be mitigated to a less than. significant level." We think it should be changed to read "Proposed mitigation measures and programs could allow for the maximum preservation and mitigation through salvage when necessary for these resources. Impacts may be mitigated to a less than significant level." We have seen too many archaeological sites and historic structures in north L.A. Co. destroyed to believe there will be no significant impacts unless the City sets more stringent requirements for the identification, evaluation, and preservation of cultural resources than described in this draft general plan and EIR. City staff, the Planning Commission, and the City Council set the direction Palmdale will take. You set the standards for development and its affect on the preservation of Palmdale's past. We've made a lot of progress in the last 20 years in which the AVAS has been voicing our concern for the areas archaeological and historic resources. We commend the City for that progress. A'J115 We also hope we will be added to list of sources of information for updating the City's Master Environmental Assessment (see Table 1 sections 3.16.1 and 3.16.2.) Thank you again for the opportunity to review and comment on these documents. Sincerely, Mark Campbel AVAS President cc:Jim Ledford SHIPO ---PAGE BREAK--- August 27, 1992 From: Leona Valley Town Council P.O. Box 795 Leona Valley, CA. 93551 SEP 1 1.1 To: City o4 Palmdale Planning Dept. 38306 9th St. East Palmdale, CA. 93550 Subject: Response to City of Palmdale Dra-ft EIR and Draft General Plan. The •following general comments are provided in response to your request. Numerous maps in both documents conflict over location City western boundaries (Sphere a-f In-Fluence), specifically at Bouquet Canyon Road. LVTc Bouquet Canyon Road tra-fic impact is not addressed as a result o4 Elizabeth Lake Road improvements. LJT- Maps of Elizabeth Lake Road show 4 lanes -from 100th St. West, yet studies do not support map depictions. Land use designation maps depict Leona Valley as "LDR', maps should be revised to show the designation "ER' or "SD" to relect the L.A. County Community Standards District determination o4 1 du. per 2.5 acre. ,T Change noted in item 4 above would also warrant revision ft o4 Elizabeth Lake Road -F ram major arterial highway to secondary arterial. Rural/agricultural areas ie: Leona Valley are not addressed apropriately in the General Plan/EIR. / /T Objectives L1.3.1, L1.3.2, and L1.3.3 have not been met for topographical boundaries, or compatability with the community a-f Leona Valley. Provisions within the General Plan to meet these objectives are vague and missing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Rural standards comparable to the L.A. County "Leona Valley Community Standards District" are absent from the Draft General Plan. Proposed City development within Leona Valley conflicts with the L.A. County AVGP and CSD, provisions to address this conflict are missing. In addition the draft EIR failed to inventory/address the cultural, physical characteristics etc. of Leona Valley as it would inter4ace with Palmdale. Rural standards comparable to the L.A. County CSD should be developed and included. Fire protection section does not address the City o-F Palmdale current fireworks policy as it would apply to a rural community ie; Leona Valley. Fireworks should be banned in outlying rural areas. The Leona Valley Town Council representing the community of Leona Valley does not desire to be within the City of Palmdale or Sphere of Influence. It is requested Palmdale initiate action to remove that portion of Leona Valley (generally following the western ridge lines starting at 50th St. West) from within the Palmdale Sphere of Influence. Lvic.. 11 LVTC. LV1t 10). As stated in the draft EIR the safe water yield for the Antelope Valley is 40,700 acre ft. Currently the City of Palmdale is consuming approx. 20,000 acre ft. with plans to expand 8.5 times to 169,731 acre ft. by the year 2010. 3t If the aqueduct were turned off/reduced in the year 2010 (as in 1991 and 1992), could the aquifer support Palmdale's 169,731 acre ft. demand plus the rest of the Valleys cummulative demand of 328,737 acre ft.? Growth must be predicated on a stable water supply, the SWP aqueduct does not meet this definition. Mitigation programs that include conservation and trust someone else to increase ground water supplies are inadequate as evidenced by our existing state of overdraft. ---PAGE BREAK--- Where is the plan to increase ground water supplies 8.5 times to support Palmdales growth plans? * What studies have been done to support this need? * Feasability * Approach * Considering subsidence, how much un-used aquifer storage capacity remains today? Where is the plan to protect our existing and future ground water suppies as required by CEOA? Since the aquifer is in overdraft today should the City continue to expand before a plan is developed to correct our existing overdraft? Since no single agency manages ground water supplies in the Antelope Valley or Palmdale, shouldn't the City of Palmdale develop/manage that plan in concert with the growth plan it proposes? Lrc, Without a clear blueprint of where the water will come from, or how it will be managed, this General Plan should not move forward - ii). Included (see attachment> are 60 each comments submitted by L. Bosma 2-27-90 which do not appear to have been incorporated and also warrant response. The Leona Valley Town Council thanks you for the opportunity to comment and looks forward to your response. M. Johnstone, V.P. Leona Valley Town Council (805) 270-1402 ---PAGE BREAK--- City of Pahndale 27 Febrtarv J99 Planning Depannient 38306 9th Street East Palnidale, CA 93550 AIIm: Sizetyl Sanderson Subject: Palnzdale General Plan Update The following comments are in response to your request dated 15 Februazy 1990. ELEMENT PAGE# PAlM COMMENTS 1. Intro The Planning Proces The CAC did not include representation from Leona Valley 2. Land Use 7 B Existing land use for the Leona Valley (SOthW. llOthW) cun-ently is 0-1 du/2.5 acre vlus Oven Space per the land use policy map dated 12/4/86 by Los Angeles rnty Board of Supervisors. Revise Table LU-3 to reflect this. 3. Land Use Exhibit LU-2 TheA VGP calls for Leona Valley to be developed consistently wit/i its cuzrez: rural character. Revise £t LU-2 to reflect Leona Valley as Equestrian ResidentiaL 4. Land Use 20 Ad. The vacant land in the Leona Valley area is not in Palnidale Sphere of Influence but should be included as a Resource Conservation Area. Revise para to include Leona Valley. 5. Land Use 21 A.2. Leona Valley on the western side of Palnzdale is also in a flood hazard zone. Revise para to include Leona Valley. 6. Land Use 22 A.4. According to CAC minutes dated 9/13/89, members voted 16 to in favor of designating low density of 2.5 du per acre in the planning area west of 50th street to 110th. This 25 designation is supported by the residents of Leona Valley as it is more in line with the current AVGP and is the reconunended acreage in the Leona Valley Standard.s District. (Noic i37zen the 9/13/89 minutes were rea4 ii s/towed 1 du per acre. This was corrected at the following CAC meeting to reflect the correct designation.) Revise this para and all Exhibit and map references to show the Leona Valley wa (5hW- llOthW) at 2.5 du per aa 7. Land Use 30 LU-S Include Leona Valley in Equestrian Residential figures and remove front Low Density Residential figures. 8. Land Use 36 N Revise last bulleted item to reath 'The proposed RuLer Ranch project located in the southwest portion of the Leona Valley planning area.' I ---PAGE BREAK--- ELEMENT PAGE# PARA COMMENTS 9. Circulation C-4 include Bouquet Canyon Road and asterick( ) as a regional sign 4flcant roadway. 10. Circulation C-S Add a dLcription of Bouquet Canyon Rood 11. Circulation C-28 D. This is not a correct as the Aqueduct Bikeway has been closed to users for some time now. 12. Circulation C-29 Eques. liii: section is not correcL These proposed trails are shown on recreation map of L.A. County's General Plan forA. V and are presently in th.stence. 13. Circulation Table C-4 Include Bouquet Canyon Road in the Traffic ModeL 14. Circulation C-39 mi C-9 Bouquet Canyon residents and the City of Santa Clariza are concerned about the circulation inrpacL Therefore, Bouquet Canyon Road should be included in this analysis. 15. Circulation C-48 Delete bulleted item 'North Hollywoo4 California 91606' 16. Circulation C-48 Thi C-JO Recommended apansion of Godde Hill Road and Elizabeth La/a Road to 6 lane highways is a foolhardy assumption made with no thorough analysis or study Godde in particular would take a major and costly engineeringfeaL Should we commit to such a grandeousplan? Reconunend a more realistic lane apansion. Also, AQMD studies have shown 1/sat the narrow valley which Elizabeth Lake Road bisects could not support the high density listed in the analysis. 17. Circulation C-59 Thi C-li Same comments as item 16. 18. Housing 5 2. Add Ruler Ranch Planned Community. 19. Housing 8 ThI H-6 Add Land Use Categoi'y: 'Equestsian Residential at 1 du/ac per 2.5' and related data. 20. Housing 25 Thi H-16 The acreage percent listed for open space is not consisteizi with data presented in the policy statement on Open Space in the introduction. increase Equestrian Residential and Rural Residential to accomplish these goats. 21. Housing 27 ThI H-l 7 The net density listed for Rural Residential (1 dulS.O) is not consistent with figures (1 du/l.0) given elsewhere. 22 Housing 27 Thl H-i 7 Including Resource Conservation Area in a potential development plan is inconsistent with the policies set fort/i for such an area. Delete from this table. 23. PSU 5 & PS-2 Thefeeder line over Godde Pass isAgriculturalluntreazed water not 'treated wale? as stated 2 ---PAGE BREAK--- ELEMENT P4GE# PAM 24. PSU 16 5. 25. PSU 17 Tb! P5-5 26. PSU Er PS-B 27. ERM 5 B.1.3. 28. ERM 8 4 29. ERM 11 30. ERM EXER.1 31. ERM EXER-6 32 ERM 21 Tb! ER-2 33. ERM 27 34. ERM 28 35. ER.M EX-JO 36. ERM 29 37. ERM 31 3.1.1.2 3& ERM 34 Po14.23 39. ERM 35 Po15.1.S COMMENTS Delete Fire Station #114 as this is merely an On-Call Fire Station not a fully staffed engne company. SI ation 114: Delete I/us station (see i:enz 24for explanation). Delete 'Fire Station 114' (see item 24 for explanation). Not only 'Ruler Ridge' but oil of Leona Valley is an ecologically sensitive area. Add Add the following after 'earthquake rift zone.' 'Leona Valley, in particular, currently supports several world renowned U-Pick Fruit Orchards and Lilac farms.' Water Resources: Descrepancy with other data regarding i/ic deep aquifer. Map does not shown Leona Valley as an agricultural area. Correct map to show this designation. 1. Amargosa Qeek and Leona Valley Wetlands are not ideniqied on this map. Add this data. 2 No Wetlands vegetation in Leona Valley is iden:fle4 Add this data. 3. No Leona Valley wash habitase identified on map. Add this data. Historical Resources: 'Old Leona Schoolhouse' should read 'Old Leona Valley Schoolhowe'. There it no Equestrian Trail along the California Aquaduct. The California Slate Riding and Hiking Trail does not follow Sierra Highway. It cuts down us back of Acton, bi.paues under the freeway into Agna 1)4cc and up into the National Forest. Scenic Areas: Include Leona Valley in the scenic area. Include Leona Valley in Scenic and Recreational Opportunities Area map. Delete the Ruler Canyon Aquatic Recreation Area - there is no such area Elizabeth Lake Roa4 Bouquet Canyon Road and Godde Hill Road are considered scenic highway& 7zy are they being included its the plan for widening as major 6-lane highways? Also, the correct name it Godde Hill nOt Hill Add 'Portal Ridge which includes stands of rare manzanita'. Add policy statement to include the preservation of native wildlife which currenty includes sonic endangered species. 3 ---PAGE BREAK--- ['alnidale General Plan Update Coinmenis, L. Bosina ELEMENT PA GE # PAlM COMMENTS 40. ERM 37 Goal 1, 2 The Trails system does not coincide with the General Plan for rural/equestrian residential areas. Make correction. 41. ERM EX-li Include Leona Valle,'. This Li a rich paleoniologzcal area. 42. ERM 45 7 77sLr goal for scenic highways Li good, however, conn-o4icts circulation plans for widening of roadways to 4 and 6-lanes which disqual4fied them from being scenic highways. 43. ER.M 53 11, 12 Refers in zodo to Leona Valley 54 13,14,15,16 55 17 44. PS E1Y S..3 The San ,4ndres Fault Zone throueit Leona Valley is not 45. PS 7 8. 46. PS LX S.5 47. PS EXS-7 48. PS LX 54 49. PS LX S-9 50. PS LX S-10 51. PS LX S-il 52. PS 11,12 EXS-12 53. PS 32 4. 54. PS LX S-14 55. PS EXS-14 56. PS 41 1 57. PS EXS-15 includeii Include. Add Godde Hill' Leona Valley Li in a Flood Hazard Area (AVGP). Please include. The slope indications are not correct for the Leona Valley. The appear to be totally reverse from what they are. Since funds were not approved by City Council to study the Leona Valley area how were these slope categories detemwzed? What is the basis or study used for the data presented in Leona Valley. (See above) Sante coinnient as items 48 & 47. Sante continent as items 48 & 47. Sante continent as items 48 & 47. Include Leona Valley in Fire Hazard area. Does not mention that Pabndale is the only area that allows the use and sale of fire works which Leona Valley considers to be extremely hazardous. Fireworks must be banned in fire hazard areas. This paragraph contradicts paragraph 5. Delete entirely. There Li no school on Bouquet Caiyon Roo4 Delete. The Fire Station shown in Leona Valley Li not a staffed fire station, but an on-call facility oi4 Are these itt lieu of the Hillside Management Plan currently wider study? Studies need to be conducted to con-ectly identfr these areas particularly those in the Leona Valley area. This is not something that should be guessed at. 4 ---PAGE BREAK--- Palmda/e General Plan Update Comments, L. Bosma ELEMENT PAGE# PAPA COMMENTS 58. General Plan Map Section 1 This map does not appear to be complete nor accurate. Does the Plan Update include all of the Leona Va/ky area west of Pahndale City limits (as the test indicates), or just that area which it shown on this map. In previous maps, the area south ofElizabeth Lake Road and west of50th was inc!uded This map, however, bisects Leona Valley at Elizabeth Lake RoatL Just what is the area ofplanning beyond 50th? Secondly, the area west of Palmdale and laiown as Leona Valley should be designated an 'Equestrian/i du per 25 acre' area rather than a 'low density/i du per 1 acre' as defined in earlier :exL This is more in line with Leona Valley's nira//equestrian character. CACrecognized this lifestyle and voted to designate this area asiper 2.5 inaló to3vote on 9/13/89. Now and who changed this designation to I acre? Change it back to 25. Thirdly, to arbitrarily designate this environmentally comples area as 1 acre - with no study in hand nor planned to accurately examine its uniqueness - is just not responsible planning Istrongly urge either deleting the Leona Valley area from this update map or (again) wge City Council to appropriate the fluids necessary to conduct a thorough study. Also, not to be ignored are the residents of Leona Valley who have made it very clear to the CAC, Palmdale Planning and the Pahndale City Counci4 that they do not want to see the urbanization or city-like development of their community. 59. General Comments There is noplanfor protection of the variety ofwildlife or their habitat. I wge that this General Plan Update include a strong policy statement and a clear cut plan to provide for the sur'ival of the many species that are native to theAntelope Va/ky area. 60. General Comments The Equestrian Residential area is limited to the fiats without any access to the proposed trails system which is in the foothilL All backwards - not in accord with the Master Trails Pla?L Submitted by Larry Bosnia Member, Palmdale Citizen Advisory Committee Fepared by Mary Ann FlI LVIA Land Use Chaitman S ---PAGE BREAK--- GENERAL PLAN UPIMiE SC1E1ULE - - - - PLANNING COM(ISSIoN PUBLIC hEARING DATES1 1990 8 I I I I a I p I ai F i I I I 1 Cr a I p I 3 ' I I p a 4 1 a' a 8 p I a' - • 8 8 I I 8 I. I P I I 8 C . p I a 4 F a' 8- a' a a 8- a' 8- P a a: 8- - I 1 i 8 a a q a d - I a ' a 3 M- a a 8 8- t. e. a I 8 ar a a I F 8 8 8 . I I 14 a I F C- i I 8 '8 i 8 C a' a I (S I * M a' a * I II I3 I ( 1 WQL.flQp Backg round - - Master Environmental ImpaetRert Housing Element - - Community Design Element I Environmental Resource ManaaementEleient Noise Element - - Public Sat.ty Element Public Services and tItiIitisElement Land Use Map Section 1 Section 2 Transportaion Model Cireaiation Eletegi - - General Plan Recommendation - - - Master Environmental Impact epoLL_ertificAtin_fic__ - - - - _ - - - - - - - - - - ---PAGE BREAK--- PE \ \tJ.E L D I N G )t STRY OCLAT!ON 0 - rnw & 8. A.V. Div. tAZSl T. KML Oop p, k,u.r Rz.fl An LEn Pcçcrey Cø. b Sc1iar S.n TiM Tc,.n€z SQitdOQpst Ci.a & Wub L E1i,iu.* Eiipr..i Mc. D OF DtRECTORS A1 r Gv L A. tic üw SicsC F* to- l.ekin,ca C.xp. L.gm CGYç.iiy UrrVa UigEn R idfl, Ct.*uw T Izwio,, Tept CciAacwi D.nMiM Lc.s Spn L M.svrn R.a Ei. Din r Sr, Pscit,c Or* p? p_ Pud.. Cainj S* RMr Ccr.piz Hiir*. Fi.nk Webb Pm H BS Won4 Tsis L'C* 'ietMfl Cirnv Oky aoARa d. ReaL Ea.* Valley E*icu, Co. - Sy Ceagsi So. CA o.d Tm Ceap. & Aalin G rea Sins Sand * G kcl Swsninn ISA £njiniT tea $U,s Ikian Oanui,, Wa,s Tms Wanins TW.uan Gi 811 Weed. Ths Co. September 23, 1992 Ms. Molly Bogh Director of Planning City of Palmdale 38300 N. Sierra Highway Palmdale, CA 93550 Dear Ms. Bogh: Enclosed are the BIA's concerns and most of our comments relating to the General Plan draft document and EIR. 1. The first bullet on page 4-40 should be eliminated. 1i 2. The payment of fees as stated in Section 2 on page Pt 4-51 could end up costing commercial developers hundreds of thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees. 3. What does Policy ER5.6.1 mean and how is it achieved? Do we need to do things that only apply * to new development, or are we not part of the City's general trip reduction program? BIOLOGY 1. We must remind the Planning Department that it is the City Council's desire to let the Federal and State agencies regulate the classification and determine the policies of dealing with endangered or threatened species. It is not appropriate to *1 have the City staff independently determine whether a species warrants focused analysis in a manner that exceeds what has been determined by State and Federal Agencies. A classic example of the City's policy was the handling of the Blue Butterfly during the processing of the East Side GPA. The staff wanted additional studies for each project, however, there was no support of this request from any of the regulatory agencies. 2. Exhibit 3-18 needs to reflect the additional Jf development in East Palmdale and the East Side GPA findings with regards to the 100 year flood line. Additionally, the existing quarry uses are not shown on this exhibit. anal K. Mor,i 51 FAX W Am K $s . L, CA P3334 ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA CO)DIZNT8/pag. 2 3. The fact that Palmda].e is a Zone 2 area should be stated on page 3-85 for the Desert Tortoise. 4. The result of the numerous applicants provided and A City initiated studies should be summarized with *7 respect to the Mohave Ground Squirrel (page 3-88). 5. it should be stated that the Little Rock Wash (page 3-89) has been very disturbed by quarry related activities. enA r& 4cin 1 CIRCULATION ELEMENT (Please note, Initial Coaasnt refers to the comments to Tom Home on June 5, 1992 by John Carroll) Section 2: GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES 1. Policy Cl.2.3.a Initial Coma.nt: We are concerned that access to large lot residential in rural areas would be eliminated. City's Resolution: Added "except where no other feasible access is available." This is acceptable so long as "feasible access" considers the financial aspect. In other words, offside road way construction is not considered feasible access. 2. Policy C1.2.3.b&c Initial Cousnt: These paragraphs were prohibitive for commercial development. City's Resolution: These paragraphs are intended for residential only. Statements "for residential development" and "in residential development" were added which solves our initial concerns. 3. Policy C.l.2.3.f Initial Comment: "Raised" medians are not required on all major and regional arterials. City's Resolution: The word "raised" was removed. To clarify- further, we suggest "(raised or partial)" be added after medians. 4. Policy C1.3.1.c Initial Coa.nt: The specific reference to 1500 ADT as the separation between local and collector streets should be revised to 2,500 to 5,000 ADT. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COIOZNT8/page 3 City's Resolution: The specific reference to 1500 ADT was removed leaving the paragraph as a general statement which is acceptable. 5. Policy Cl.3.1.d Initial Coa*snt: This statement was the initial concern of Policy Cl.3.l.c above. The restriction of driveways on to a collector street or local streets which function as collector streets is of concern. Houses either front on, side on, or back on to streets. With restrictions to four way intersections, intersections on Tee intersection spacing, and "Dog Leg cul-de-sacs," etc., more and more streets will end up with lots backing on to streets (with block walls) which will give the City more alley street appearances. The City staff has assured us that the word "discourage" will allow for flexibility in design. We hope that the Planning Commission and City Council understand the design concepts and consider some of the "discouraged" traffic elements such as: 1. Drive way access; 2. Four way intersections; 3. Dog leg cul-de-sac; 4. Curvealinear continuous local streets; to be considered as "good design." 6. Policy C1.3.l.f Initial Comment: The maximum cul-de-sac length of 500 feet was too short and restrictive. The "dog leg" cul-de-sac is a good design element to maintain tee intersection spacing and avoid four way intersections. City's Resolution: The cul-de-sac length was increased to 700 feet which is acceptable. Again, City staff has assured us that the term "should be avoided" for "dog leg" cul-de-sac will allow for flexibility. 7. Policy C.4.4.a Initial Comment: The reference to a 28 foot off tract paved access was too large. City's Resolution: This was revised to 28 feet for the first 200 feet and 26 feet there after. 8. Policy Cl.4.5.b Initial Comment: Some flexibility of design should be allowed for knuckles. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COMMENTS/page 4 city's Resolution: The term "plus or minus 10 degrees" was included which is acceptable. 9. Policy Cl.4.5.d Initial Couent: The 300 foot intersection spacing will not work with the other "discouraged" and "to be avoided" statements in this policy. city's Resolution: The city added "where necessary to provide adequate queuing room for left turn movements onto collector streets. Where left turn movements onto collector streets are not needed this spacing requirement may be reduced to 150 feet." Staff has again assured us that for local street layout 150 feet will be allowed. The 150 feet for Tee intersection spacing in residential subdivisions is essential. Refer to our statements in Policy Cl.3.ld above. 10. Policy Cl.4.6 This policy is acceptable for private road pavement structial section, but not for width sections. Flexibility should be allowed for street sections in width and curb sections. Private street development should allow for creative design. 11. Street Cross Sections - The City staff had agreed to add the words "painted or raised" to the street sections where medians are visual. This latest copy had not been revised. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES ELEMENT 1. Policy ER 1.1.5 - Retention of Open Space The policy should be revised to say that the city should retain open space by acauisition as well as dedication. 2. Policy ER 2.1.1 - Designation of SEA's The last sentence should be changed to state that development will not be permitted in those areas if after mitigation the development is likely to degrade important environmental resource to an unacceptable level. 3. Policy ER 2.1.5 - Joshua Trees The City has a Joshua Tree ordinance! The policy should state that the ordinance should be implemented rather than declare that additional significant stands of Joshua Trees should be ---PAGE BREAK--- 3m COMMENTS/pag. S preserved. If they are to be preserved, that should again be accomplished through acquisition. 4. Policy ER 5.4.2 - Toxic Emissions How will this policy be implemented? The policy seeks to prevent the release of air toxins through the environmental review process. Does this apply to building materials, etc? 5. Policy ER 5.6.1 - Reduce VMT This policy is questionable. It requires developments to reduce vehicle miles travelled to the maximum amount feasible. The policy should be revised to say that developments should comply with any Congestion Management Plan or Transportation Demand Management Plan that has been adopted by the city. As it stands, this could require all sorts of costly and ineffective measures simply because they are feasible. 6. Page 14, Section 3 D-2 - Indirect Source ELIMINATE THIS SECTION! This would require the city to adopt an ordinance to require mitigation of mobil source emissions and a study to determine on each project the regional VMT that the project would generate. This is worse than the Kern County indirect source rule. 7. Page 19, Section I - Native Desert Vegetation Ordinance Delete the last sentence which requires preservation of significant stands of Joshua Trees. 8. Page 35, B - Water Resources We strongly object to the following statements: "overdrafting or pumping in excess of the recharge is prevalent in the Antelope Valley. Groundwater wells serve 80 percent of Palmdale's water needs and the California Aqueduct provides the remaining 20 percent." "The continued reliance on groundwater to meet current and increasing demands for water to rapid urbanization in the Valley has lowered the water table continuously." We believe these to be false statements that must be rewritten to reflect reality. The Los Angeles County Public Works (PWD 1991) White Paper - Antelope Valley Water Study and Source of Supply released in March of 1991 paints a ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COENT8/pag. 6 more accurate picture. According to this report, the 1989 water demands of Palmdale reveal that the L.A. county Waterworks District drew 46% and the Palmdale Water District drew 52% of its water from wells (PWD 1991, Table No. 3, page 5) - not the 80% mentioned in the GPU. The report also contradicts the statement that rapid urbanization "has lowered the water table continuously." The white paper states instead that "current groundwater extractions are less than natural recharge and overdrafting of the basin has stopped. Groundwater levels have stabilized in the central part of the basin with water level increases from 10 to 60 feet in the east and west portions of the basin." (PWD 1991, page 12) Contrary to the position stated in the GPU, the report states that: "the conversion from agricultural to M & I (municipal and industrial purposes) and the use of SWP (State Water Project) water by the groundwater extractors has resulted in relieving the overdraft of the basin. This has stabilized the groundwater levels and a rise has been recorded in Waterworks wells indicating the banking of some of the natural recharge." (PWD 1991, page 8) OUS 1. Policy H2.i.4 - Why is the City restricting the affordable units to 30 years? Why not 20 years? 2. We believe that the program described at Hl.F of Section 2 (page H-3) should be voluntary vs. mandatory for a variety of reasons. We wish to further discuss this matter prior to the adoption/drafting of any future standards, policies, ordinances, etc. 3. We wish to further discuss program H l.E described in Goal Hi of Section 2 (page H-4) prior to the adoption of any future standards, policies, ordinances, etc. 4. We would like to further explore with the City of Palmdale the program described at Hi.g of Section 2 (page H-5) inasmuch as we concur with the underlying objectives. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COMIIENTS/pag. 7 5. We continue to encourage the use of Single Family Mortgage Revenue Bonds as discussed in program Hl.I of Section 2 (page H-6). 6. In order to equitably attain Objective Hl.5 of Section 2 (page H-B), it is critical that the City of Palmdale devise methods to expand the tax base as a means of reducing new development fees and, thereby, maintain the affordability of Palmdale as mentioned in comment above. Housing fee increases can no longer be passed along to new single or multifamily owners while existing residential, commercial and industrial users are given a "free ride." We are more than willing to discuss this issue in greater detail at your convenience. 7. We wish to further discuss program H6.A described in Goal H6 (page H-21) orior to the adoption of any future checklists, policies, ordinances, etc. 8. We wish tO further discuss program H2.A described in Goal H2 of Section 2 (page H-b) Drior to the adoption of any future standards, policies, ordinances, etc. 9. The data contained in Section 5: Housing Characteristics - Overcrowding (page H-47) emphasizes the importance of maintaining affordability as a key attribute for the City of Palmdale. We concur with these findings. 10. Page H-l12 states that a 7000 Sf lot yields 6 units per acre. For 7000 foot lots, the average yield is 4 units per acre. Also, the land prices appear to be in conflict with the City's appraisal numbers. 11. Tables H-37 & 38 show a lower school fee than what is required by the current rules. LAND USE 1. How was the 3 units per acre assigned to Policy Ll.4.2.b? 2. What exactly does it mean for Policy L2.1.6? Does this apply to all projects, regardless of size? 3. Throughout Goal L3.1; the high range of density is used for the calculation of potential population. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COMMENTS/page 8 This is wrong. For (3.1-6) density calls people per sq. mile. 66% of this density. is from this section service needs are deti example, the single family out that there will be 9,700 R-l-7000 lots yield only 60- This is important because it that the library and public ?rmined for the community. 4. Policy L3.4.3 - In east Palmdale, there are several greater than one acre, yet the density will be 3.1- 6 units/acre. We think that there is an error in the wording of this Policy. 5. Policy L4.2.8 - Why Why not 10% which is in greater conformance with the Hillside Ordinance. 6. The Exhibits LU-4 and Continued should be adjusted to reflect the current building activity and the information provided through the East Side GPA. For example, LU-5 should show development occurring to 70th Street East, not 55th. 1. The Noise Element never really explains why the various standards were chosen. The implication is that they are derived from Table N-i, but the writers never quite say so. In fact, it is purposefully pointed out that Table N-i is not a standard but a guideline. Yet, the element fails to bridge the gap between this guideline and Table N-3. Also, the relationship between Table N-i, which is expressed in CNEL, and Table N-3 expressed in Hourly Leq standards, is unexplained. None of the Policies use the Leg term. It appears out of the blue. The Noise Element badly needs a section explaining how the standards were developed to have Table N-3 make more sense. 2. Policy N 1.1.3 This policy may eventually be in conflict with the proposed Noise Ordinance. The ordinance will usually be more restrictive. Therefore, the Policy might be altered to require compliance with the CNEL criteria and the Noise ordinance. 3. Policy N 1.1.4 This policy is confusing. It is not clear why one would use Table N-i if Table N-3 is to be the adopted standard. A better explanation of the application of the two tables is needed. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COMMENTS/page 9 4. Page N-7, second paragraph Table N-4 should read "Table N-3." 5. Table N-6 This table is produced by a computer program. The parameters used in the program should be specified, since frequently, the program must be run for sound barrier calculations and other reasons. Parameters include speeds, vehicle mix, ADT's and roadway dimensions. The primary implication of the Noise Element for the builder is high sound walls. Many streets will require barriers eight to ten feet high. This is not spelled out clearly in this document. It ought to clearly point this out to the policy makers somewhere along the line. We strongly urge the City to consider the consequences of requiring abrupt changes in requirements on projects already in the design or approval process. We request representation/advance notice concerning: 1) The drafting of any corresponding noise ordinance(s) and 2) Any revision(s) to current sound wall design standards. PUBLIC SERVICES ELEMENT 1. Policy PS1.l.2 - This policy does not state how the City is to determine fair share. 2. Policy PS1.l.3 - Currently, the City is allowing occupancy even though off-site improvements are not completed, but are bonded for. What "complete" means is not specified in this document. 3. Policy PS1.l.4 - No mechanism to provide funding is specified. 4. Policy PS1.l.5 - The complicity of these backbone plans are not specified. A master plan concept should be adequate. Preparation of final improvement plans should be deferred until after approval has been granted. 5. Objective PS1.2 - This objective should help alleviate hodge-podge localized development and tie areas together so all development can proceed in a logical fashion. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA CONXENTB/pag. 10 6. Policy PS1.2.5 - In making the requirement that infrastructure be designed and constructed to "ultimate," no mechanism as to who will pay for these "ultimate" improvements is provided. I.e. reimbursement, community facilities district, Mello Roos, or developer pays all. Policy 1.2.8 does not specify the mechanism. 7. Policy PS1.2.6 - This may unnecessarily lead to having the development pattern for adjacent undeveloped parcels set before any plans have been prepared. 8. Policy PS1.2.8 - This policy does not specify any mechanism. 9. Objective PS1.3 - Through this objective, the City is emphasizing mt iii projects that can utilize existing infrastructure. The incentives to achieve this objective are not specified. 10. Policy PSl.4.2 - We wish to further discuss this matter Drior to the adoption of the service level standard. 11. Policy PS1.4.5 - If this fee is to fund programs, we request it is levied upon all properties, not just new development. 12. Policy PSi 5.1 - We are concerned that formally including the recommendation of adjacent jurisdictions is just going to add another agency into the loop to get a project approved. 13. Policy PS1.5.3 - Again, we are concerned that formally including the recommendation of adjacent jurisdictions is just going to add another agency into the loop to get a project approved. 14. Policy P53.1.2 - It is not specified how this will be evaluated. 15. Policy PS4.1.4 - This policy has the appearance of allowing the City to determine how much the school fees will be. Is this going to be in addition to the State mandated fees? 16. Policy PS5.3 - Although not stated that this policy is for library service, we are concerned that this policy may cause a mitigation fee to be created to meet these criteria. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA 11 17. Policy PS5.4.4 - This needs to be clarified with respect to policy PS5.4.l. Is this a park in lieu fee or a separate fee? 18. Objective PS56 - Although not stated in this objective, we are again concerned that the City will create an impact fee to meet this objective. SECTION 3: IMPLEMENTATION 19. Item C2.b - We wish to further discuss this section Drior to the adoption of any future standards, policies, ordinances, etc. 20. Item E, Development Plan Review, No. 6 The City's development plan review process shall include and/or consider - Utility line easements and facilities designs. Comment - Does this review process imply reviewing existing utility line easements and designs (as builds), or development proposed? Public utility (electric, telephone, gas and cable television) easements and designs for proposed developments are typically not available at the time of development plan review. 21. Item El - We are concerned that coordination with capital improvement projects could hold-up development of a needed project until the City is ready to move forward. 22. Item E3 - Are we going to be required to address cumulative impacts on the ground water basin? We request clarification. 23. Item E8 - Again, are we going to have to address cumulative impacts. We request clarification. 24. Item M - This section needs to address NPDES. 25. Item R - This is the continuing theme throughout the element. The City talks about mitigation, but it is not possible for a perfect project to be built. The City will need to implement a policy for the preparation of the fiscal analysis. We request the opportunity to be involved in that process to ensure that all applicable income attributable to a project is considered (i.e. gas tax, sales tax, etc.). ---PAGE BREAK--- 81k CO)DIZNTB/pag. 12 26. Item S - Facility fees and charges will be imposed on new developments pursuant to City ordinances. Facility fees and charges may be established for new development to pay for the infrastructure and services that are needed to maintain the project. Comment - Without specifying which utility infrastructure and services are implied, the above statement provides an open door for fees and charges to be applied to any and all utilities. This would include electric, telephone, gas and cable television, utilities which developments already advance fees to for services. SECTION 4: ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES 27. Item 9 - Telephone Systems: Paragraph 2 - "Developers must pay for the extension of existing lines to serve their developments, and the cost of line extensions is determined by the number of lots served." Comment - The above statement is incorrect and misleading. Under CPUC Tariffs, the developer is responsible for costs equating to 3/4 of the difference between an overhead system and an underground layout (Directional Feeder Route) will have an effect on the amount of infrastructure to be installed. This will effect the amount of service, is determined by the utility and the need for immediate service, and is not the responsibility of the developer. Specific development circumstances may allow for costs to be postponed. Not always does the developer pay for off-site extensions. 28. Exhibit PS-il - This exhibit does not accurately reflect the current exchange boundary between GTE and Pacific Bell. Specifically all of TT-49016 (Rancho Vista Golf Course) falls within the Pacific Bell exchange boundary. 27. Item T - This statement should say "The City will assist whenup-sizing is required." The City has provided no provision that specifies how up-sizing will be accomplished. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA CO1Q(E)ITS/pag. 13 1. Policy Sl.l.7 - "Restrict location of utility lines, whether above or below ground, within fifty feet of a fault trace, except to cross the fault trace." Comment -This is a very objectionable policy. Streets have been the areas where faults have been aligned and this would be a fundamental change in city policy. Furthermore, fifty feet is a distance of absolutely no engineering merit, some faults require setbacks of much less, some much more. The policy should instead merely recommend that engineering review placement of utility lines in relationship to geologic hazards, if it is the intent to change this important element, planning it must be discussed publicly and setbacks should still be per engineering review. 2. Policy Sl.2.4 - "All required primary and secondary access and egress routes for all new development should be "dry" access located outside of the 100- year flood plain." Comment - Some roads are designed to carry 100-year flood water. 3. Policy Sl.2.7 - "Ensure that storm water drainage is designed to limit peak flow conditions." Comment - We believe this should say "designed for peak flow conditions." 4. Policy S2.4.1 - "Require that no jail...be located within five miles of a school..." Comment - The opposite side of this issue is that no schools could be built within five miles of existing prisons. On the west side, this will seriously impact locations for future schools. 5. Policy S2.5.1 - "...residential be visible frol other nearby units..." Comment - While only an observation, this could have serious impacts for designing homes and neighborhoods. ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA COIOaNTS/pag. 14 6. Policy S4.2.3 - "Promote the use of water filtration systems at point-of-delivery for acceptable water quality in emergency situations." Comment - Please clarify. Is this for facilities designed for emergencies or for all homes? 7. Page S-18, #18. Development Review Comment - Line 2 should say "the City will enforce its standards." 8. #19. Water Quality Monitoring Comment - Line 1 should say "The City will attemDt cooperate with the Regional Control Board and local water purveyors..." The city must reserve its rights to differ with water agencies. As this item is written now, water purveyors will have immense planning powers. 9. Page S-20 - "Engineered construction must withstand secondary rupture in structures near fault zones." Comment - Please clarify. We are not sure what this means. As shown by the recent Leanders Quake, we do not believe it is possible to predict or prevent damage near fault zones. 10. Page S-20 & S-2l, Fire Safety Standards Comment - Please clarify. Where are these standards? As written this could mean all homes must include flame retardant construction with sprinkler systems. Given our present fire protection system, this is clearly not needed. 11. Page S-23 - "Along earthquake fault zones and flood plains, development shall be minimized to low intensity uses, such as recreation, agriculture, rural residential andopen spaces." Comment: No. This is clearly contrary to city policy and could restrict growth in much of the City. Present standards for development along fault zones and flood plains, based upon reasonable geotechnical review, are adequate. 12. Page S-45 - "Areas with collapsible soils should not be developed unles. the hazard is remedied through excavation of the first 3-4 feet and re- compaction of the area to attain the required cohesive strength, or other acceptable engineering practices for anchoring soil stability." ---PAGE BREAK--- BIA 15 Comment - A specific recommendation is not appropriate for a General Plan. Merely stating that soils recommendations are needed and should be followed is adequate. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to address our concerns with the General Plan Update. Sincerely, Richar H. Norris Executive Director ---PAGE BREAK--- September 8, 1992 CITY OP PALWALE 38306 9th STRT EAST PALNDALE, CALIFORNIA.... .93550 SEP18 19" ciri OF PALM DAL Subject: Property Owner Comment: "DRAFT ENVIRONITAL IiACT REPORT- GENERAL PLA1." Legal Ad #92-69 Published August 9, 1992..... Three-acre parcel located adjacent to the southwest corner of 10th treet West and the AV Fwy. (Hwy. 14) Parcel: 3005-038-003 Attention: Laurie Lile Palrndale Planning Dept. My wife and I purchased 3-acres of subject vacant land on May 27, 1971. At the tine o± purchase, the land was in L.A. County territory. The reason we bought the 3-acres was for the L.A. County zoning des- iiation of NPD, (Manufacturing Planned Development.) Our ultimate intended use was for a manufacturing, "Use." Ongoing from the time of purchase through most of the ensuing 21-years our land remained in the L.A. County area and retained the D1PD søning. At a point in time, the City of Palmdale annexed our property, discontinued our NPD zoning and advised that the City would. no longer permit our ultimate intended use. At that point, our land lost all value to us, the City offered no remuneration for our loss and we are forced to sell. The City then placed our vacant land into assessment districts 88-1 and 90-1 and escalated our annual property tax bill from $559.48 too l9,5l8.89 ior the next 25-years, in payment of the City owned sidewalk and street lights.....Since our land could not be used for the intended maaufacturing purpose and the vacant land generates no income, 83% of our total income is being taken by the City of Palmdale in taxes. For the above reasons, the City of Palmdale is forcing us of f our property due to the loss of use and the back-breaking City taxes would appear that this has the elements of an inverse condemnation. Since cancelHng our JQD zoning, the City under their General Plan is assigting, Community Commercial orRegiona1 Commercial designations Palindale p1in1ng personnel have advised that a Regional Commercial designation. is intended for; "facilities which are planned to serve the regional needs of a broad service area, including the entire Antelope Valley." This means a large retail dept., store or something like a hotel or who ows what? Such a designation is much too re- strictive and should be made- more flexible on the lower-end to include C-3 small retail type operations besides the , "large retail dept., stores," or a hotel. Our property is only 3.-acres and the chance of it being combined with other property is slim-to-none. The broad Regional Commercial designation is extremely ambignous and arbitrary. Plarining personnel themselves don't seem to agree on what facility, ---PAGE BREAK--- "serves the needs of a broad service area." This could be anything and interpreted differently by any number of City personnel and det.- rimental to the property owner. In a recent incident, a prospective buyer contacted Planning regarding the feasibility of locating an automotive service center on the property similar to Sears & Roebucks' facility next door to us and mile-west on the Forest City Nail property. Plnn1ng personnel discouraged the project and it failed. When questioned, three separate planning personnel gave 3 totally different reasons as to why the project was discouraged....We asked out of curiosity, if a fast-food facility would be acceptable or a strip mall of stores and the response was...No, inspite of the fact that Carl's Jr., is situated little more than 100 yards south of On the same property line 100 yards north is C-3 zoning. The proposed, "Use," is so ambiguous and arbitrary that the City can desiguate any type of zoning at anytime. This leaves us, the 21-year property owners who are being forced out due to the loss of our original zoning plus, back-bresking City of Pa.lmdale taxes, in worse shape than when the City cancelled our original NPD. Lu ambiguous, "Use" desiguation eq- uates to no zoning at ail. What we are saying here is that it is a mistake to limit the property to a large dept., store, hotel, etc. Proerties next to us on 10 th West, carry a broad designation for small C-3 type retail operations which would. fit on 3-acres or other small parcels. A response from the City of Palmd.ale to this petition advising that we should apply for a zone change if the imposed designation is not work- able is unacceptable and impracticle....Veteran City of Palmdale property owners and developers who have been through the process advise that an application for a zone change is fraught with layers of red-tape, is expensive and very time consuming and. prospective bujers or developers are not willing to make the commitment of time and expense for such a tenuous chance of approval on such a small parcel. Under normal circumstances, a 3m911 parcel of vacant land which generates no income can be carried for extended periods of time while surrounding development matures and. the small parcel is dev- eloped. In this instance, the City of Palmdale mandated off-site improvements in the form of sidewalks, street lights, etc., before development occurred and imposed a devastating tax burden of ap- proximately $350,000 for 25-years. As a result of the tax burden, the property cannot remain vacant for extended periods due to highly controll4n and strict zone regulations. A property owner is left with little options by the City other than to allow the City to f ore- close and confiscate the parcel. The situation speaks for itielf....With City of Palmdale annexation came: loss of long standing zoning, a devastating tax burden on vacant land, and the threat of foreclosure and. confiscation by the ---PAGE BREAK--- City of Palmdale.....To impose even more restrictions by way of a rigid and intractable zone imposition will only exacerbate an al- ready disastrous situation. please advise your approval..... Sincerely, Mary Squire 4851 West Avenue M-l2 Quartz Hill, Ca...93536 cc: ---PAGE BREAK--- F1 NDR E€ CS F C hanl e e B rin k When possible to save tims I pm- P0 BoX 9333 Vt Nw, CA 91409 fir response by FAX øistesd of maL sAS1,1o2E $O5-2B92030 FAX $1$-as.2o3e The City of Palmdale, Planning Department Via FAX [PHONE REDACTED] In reference to the Proposed master plan and EIR I represent a number of community members In Acton and We oppos, your new general plan. These doucoments ar. filled with errors and omissions. For Example: Exhibit LU.3 fails to show any slope contours south of the ridgeline in the portions of Acton In sections 13 to 16 and 16 to 14 and those unnumbered sectIons to the south of these sectln.ns nn I 11-9 Each of the Environmental impacts stated in the DEIR fail to state a reasonable mitigation and are wholly inadequate. The negative impacts, evan after these wishful and Inadequst. 'mitigatIons, are damaging the communities of and It's neighbors. Geology To allow construction which wIll be damaged by a predicted strength earthquake C$ is criminal. The mitigation should be NO new construction that will not surviv, the earthquake without hurting th. persons in the new construction. Air quality You must not allow any new residential construction until the jobs.houslng balance is corrected and limit growth not to exceed the levels mandated by the appropriate State and Fed•ral agencies. Water Resources You must allow no new projects without proven permanent sources of water. Your orooosed mltist1en is just Natural and Biological resources and land use These show vast negativ. effects without proper mitigation. Population and Housing, traffic, public serv1ces, public utilities, and the whole study The DEIR a so bad that a comment is not suffloint. It must be started over, for example: The traffic on the Antelope Valley freeway to the lobs in LA is not even discussed even though in the rush hour th, traffic Ii at grid look, and you plan & 6 fold Increase without any mitigation. Your boundaries with Acton at the south are not correct, the farthest possible exten- sion of your city must be the ridgeitne as seen from your side of th. valley. As there was inadequate time to respond In more detail we demand a tuIl 30 days after a full copy of the DEIR, Revised General plan and support documents are avail ably in the community. The best advise to Palmdal. Is to step growth and any new annexations, except isolated small pockets, until the disastrous problems (Jobs, Crime, Schools, and Water) are cleaned up, thin think of expanding. rrrr ---PAGE BREAK--- QatLz dfitt ¶Joa,n £?otuzatt 42263 50th St. West, Suite 1111 Quartz Hill, California 93536 September 23, 1992 Laurie Lile City of Palmdale 38306 9th Street East Paimdale, California 93550 Dear Laurie Ute CITY OF PAM- The following is a list of concerns in relation to your Environmental Impact Report. We wish to take this time to thank you for this opportunity to express our concerns and that of the residents of Qua,t Hill. We are looking forward to a response from you regarding the issues stated. Sincerely, Dou5tigis, President Quart Hill Town Council Doug Burgis, Predent - Clara Hoths, Vi Predent Frank Sloan, Seactary / 1eazr Don Brown - Mary McKain, Coundi Mnbers ---PAGE BREAK--- COMMENTS ON THE CITY OF PALMDALE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT Ref. Pg. 1-4, Para 1, Hillside Development Two problems, largely ignored by the study, anre impact on downhill property of excessive water ninoff resulting from such hillside dcvelopment and decreased absorption of rainwater by the land involved. These two jointly contribute to downhill flooding. already surfaced as a problem in the Quartz Hill area. Ref. Pg. 1-5, Para. 5, Depletion of Ground Water Resources Historically the average residence in the High Desert uses between 1/2 and 1 acrefoot of water annually, dependent mainly on the weather and temperature. The concept of using conservation of water to provide for water for an influx of new home owners is naive. A viable life to which the populace is currently acclimatized can not be maintained on a water allocation less than this typical usage. This is desert country. It is highly recommended that, before additional development be encouraged the present populace be forewarned that they will be required to tolerate an austere water-usage mode for the rest of their lives in the High Deseit They should then be given the opportuiixy to vote for or against continued development. Furthermore, a Geological Survey study of 1978 stsates emphatically that the aquifer is being depleted, that replenishment of the water in the aquifer by natural factors is highly improbable, and that the populace supportable by the aquifer is limitet Add to this the probability of recurring droughts, and the fact that no signdicant additional water could be brounght from northern California within the next 10 to 15 years, even is a decision was made today to bring in usch water. Our planners are making assuptions that plainly do not apply to an environment such as the High Desert. Pg. 1-6, 1-7 Alternatives Considered As indicated in the paragraph above, it is naive- even criminal - to assume away the real problem, inadequate water in a desert environment. At this time a no-growth plan should be offered to the populace to vote on, with the understanding that when the state elects to develop water sources for southern California they may again make a decision. The only people who profit form the current approach are developers. The current residences, and those who buy in the new will be left to face an and and unpleasant existence, with water-rationing as8ulred. Pg. 1-10, Geology Their arc two problems associated with the geological situation. The short-terni effect of earthquakes, and the mid- to long term effects. The study takes a naive approch, addressing only the short term impacts. The key problem faced by the valley in case of a major earthquake is, again, related to the availability of water. The aquaduct will not withstand a major quake, will be useless for up to a year and then will operate well below capacity. Water tanks, water lines, well casings and assocaited equipment and facilities will be largely destroyed. No organizalionn - goemment or private - has plans to provide for delivering adequate water subsequent to such a quake. What water is delivered will undoubtedly go to the City of Los Angeles, not outlying ---PAGE BREAK--- communities such as ours. Death from thirst will be the major problem associated with Geology. To ignore this is both naive and criminal. Pg. 1-10, 1-11 Air Quality Due to unscientific approach to the Air Quality measurements it is difficult to assess development impact on the local air. At the moment there is no measurement of air quality of the air masses entering the area, with measurement of the same air mass as it leaves the area. The delta between such measurements would be indicative of the actual contribution to air pollution. This delta is being ignored. As a result the contnbution of the populace to air pollution in the area is indeterminate. Due to the direction of air flow, and the prevailing winds, the quality of the local air is probably not dependent on the actions taken here, but on the actions taken south and west of us. Pg. 1-11 Water Resources The conclusions here arc naive, to say the least. With recurrent droughts and the certainty that any major effort to provide water from the north would be completed at the earliest 10 to 15 years from now, we arc left with the certainty of water rationing for ow residents. Any other conclusion is untenable. If return to the desert life style ofycatelycar is acceptable to the populace, with no greenery and the bath only weekly then the conclusions are somewhat realistic. Pg. 1-12 Biological Resources Here again we arc being naive. Preservation of the various forms of vegetation and animal life in the vicinity of the populace is an environmental pipedream. If people move in, in substanttial numbers, the environment is going to change. Those natural forms that can survive in the vicinity of such a populace will survive, the others will move on or die out. That is nature's way, and the EPA and all the government regulations in the worid aren't going to change it. At best we might designate parks or the like for growing representastive desert life forms. Anything else is a sham. Pg. 1-13 Natural Resources Mitigation measures referenced have proven, time after time, merely a way to close down the activities they purport to protect. We must be prepared to see these industries die out in ow area and the jobs migrate eksewherc. Pg. 1-l3LandUsc The approach to land use has already surfaced both political and financial problems. Annexation of lands to the city, with residential development thereon, is neither cost effective to the city nor acceptable to ot4ying rural areas. At this time the Quartz Hill Community is working with both Palmdale and Lancaster to alleviate some of the the problems which have swfacci They are attempting to better establish the boundaries involved, to modify those bundaiies to the advantage of the rural community and the city communities, and to eliminate the islands of city completely cutoff from the servides normally available form those cities. The outlying with rare exception, strongly demand a rural, low-density neighborhood. The cities, based on economics, need commercial centers as a source of revenue. With mutual cooperation both can be achieved to an acceptable leveL Pg. 1-17 Traffic and Circulation ---PAGE BREAK--- This should be addressed as an Antelope Valley problem, with heay emphasis on early development of by-pass roads around the cities. Current plans have such arteries as widened existing streets in developed areas, and extremely costly measure. A survey should be quickly conducted to identif' alternatives on the edge of current buildups, and property acquired early on at an acceptable price. Pg. 1-17, 1-25 Public Services This entire section is based on simplistic interpretation of the problems involved. Even now the Fire Districts are complaining of inadequate funding, gangs are forming in the valley and the police protection can do little about it, schools are under both financial and population pressure, economic factors are closing down park and recreation activity, Ubraty services are threa1ened hospital service continues to climb to costs well beyond the affordable, water resources are plainly inadequate for growth, sewer services are even now borderline at best, solid waste disposal becomes ever more costly, storm drainage is largely accomplished by passing the water to adjacent areas outside the city's area Quartz Hill), economics suggests that the power companies will have little incentive to develop additional sources so periodic brown-out are probable,, natural gas availability will be curtailed due to economic conditions prevailing in California, quality of elephonc service is likely to falL This entire area needs a much more realistic analysis, keeping in mind the economic mix of the incoming population and the continued migration of industry out of the southern California area. Pg. 1-25, 1-26 Risk of Upset, earthquake The risk of a major fits a poisson distribution. However the probability of large to medium earthquakes is larger. As mentioned earlier, the real impact may be by way of water loss. Pg 1-26 Aircraft Test flight of aircraft is a key activity of the aerospace industry and the Edwards Air Force Base. Test flight is an inherently dangerous process. The probability of accidents is high, with the severity of the accident being indcterniinate. As the populated area grows the probability of a serious accident increases proportionately, particularly along the flight paths used for test flights. Test flights include limited tests run after work on the aircraft to full testing programs, and both are conducted in the valley. Pg. 1-26, 1-27 Hazardous Materials The only practical way to mitigate the problem is elimination of the industries which produce or use such materials. This will result in more migration of industry to other states and overseas. it is naive to believe that industry will remain if regulatory measures make it non-competitive. Failure to fold in the economic impact ofmitigating policies makes it difficult to assess the real results. ---PAGE BREAK--- & St.t. .f CdNmI Memorandum To Mr. Toa Lof turn State Clearinghouse 1400 Tenth Street, Room 121 Sacramento, CA 95824 Project Review Comments Dot. September 25, 2.992 IGR/CZQA/DEIR City of Palmdale DRAFT GENERAL PLAN wilford Milton District 7 Prom *ARTM4T OP TRANSPORTATION Subject [ti't Busin,s T 4sjsr AIarcp P11. Ne. Vic. LA-l4-R58.L5/64.6 Caltrans has reviewed the above-referenced document. Sased on the information received, we reaffirm the comments mad. in our litter of July 15, 1992 and have the following additional ooaasnta: We are concerned that the Level of Service (LOS) at buildout shown on Table C-4 of the General Plan, Circulation Element may not be accurate because of the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Trip Reduction Factor of 2.5%, 7-8% would be more realistic. We are pleased with the referenc, on Page C-4 of the circulation Ilement to some of the features of the "Antelope Valley 'Sketch' Master Plan of )fighways". We would like specific language used to describe the freeway alignment where there is agreement between the City of Paladale and Caltrans (from SR 14/roadway parallel on the northeide and adjacent to Avenue P-B to Avenue P-SO). Our records indicate the following data for SR-2.4 which differs from that given in the General Plan on pag.s C-32 and C-U. and the D*ZR on page 3-118: 81-2.4 has 6 travel lanes north of Ave P-8, and 5 travel lanes south of Ave. F-8 through the General Plan Area. Seven travel lanes south of P-S are planned for the near future. The Caltrans 1990 Traffic Volumes on SR24 in the General Plan Ares rang. from 48,000 Average Daily Traffic (AD?) to 52,000 ADT. Volumes for SR-1.4 from Route S to the Kern County Line rang. from 118,000 AD? at the southwesterly end to 52,000 AD? at the northeasterly end. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Tam Lottus Septeaber 25, 2.992 Page Two On pegs C-Si of the General Plan, for Palmdal. Blvd. our records for the year 1990 indicate the following data: From 47th St. east to 57th St. east - 4 lanes, divided From 57th St. east to 120th Ste east - 2 lanes From SR-14 to 30th 5t. east, volume-33,000 ADT From 30th St. east to 47th St. east, volume-22000 AT From 47th St. east to 70th St. east, voluins-20,000 ADT From 70th St. east to 90th St. east, volumeal7,000 ADT From 90th St. east to :.0th St. east, voluzne-16,000 ADT On page C-52 General P'an, for SR-i.38, our records for the year 1990 indicate the following data From Ave. P to 90th St. east, volume.2.8,500 ADT From 90th St. to 120th St. east, volume-16,000 ADT On page C-6 of the General Plan, Objective C1.5 should also include areas of deficiency within the highway and freeway system created by developments. If you have any questions regarding this response, pl.ese cci] as at (213) 897-1338. 5_ By WILFORD MELTON Senior Transportation Planner XGR/CEQA Coordinator Advance Planning Branch cc: Ms. Laurie Li].. City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 9th Street East Paladale, CA 93550 bce: RHelgeson, HQ Transp.Planning/IGR PHsu Traffic Ops FQuon, Proj Dcv Local Coordination, APB File Chrono nh\6032 ---PAGE BREAK--- c) South Coast AiR. QUALITY MANACEMNT DISTRICT 21865 E. Copey Drive, Dlamor 8er, CA 91765-4182 (714) 396-2000 October 5, 1992 Ms Laurie Lile City of Palmdale Planning Department 38306 9th Street Palnidale, CA 93550 Dear Ms. Lile: Re: Comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report for the City Ot Palmdale General Plan DISTRICT# LAC920813-O1 The South Coast Air Quality Management District (District) is responsible for adopting, implementing, and enforcing air quality regulations in the South Coast Air Basin. The District reviews and analyzes environmental documents for projects that may generate significant air quality impacts, and thereon advises the lead agency. The District has reviewed the Proposed Draft EIR for the above-mentioned project. Based upon our analysis, the District has determined that several short-term and long-term air quality impacts were inadequately assessed. The Draft SIR does not contain accurate or sufficient information on which to base an informed decision. Implementation of the proposed General Plan will generate exhaust emissions from construction equipment, vehicles used to building materials and equipment to and from each development, and 77tomoh1les of the construction crew, as well fugitive dust generated during sot. The emissions should be quantified to determine significance. Given the number of vehicles at key intersections, local meteorology, site geometry and site characteristics, sensitive receptors located adjacent to and downwind of intersections could be exposed to significant concentrations of CO. The magnitude of the CO emissions should be modeled for the key intersections. It is essential that the SIR clarify the regional setting and especially the regional plans that deal with large scale environmental problems such as air quality. The SIR must consider awees wdes:E0 26 90 IX d ---PAGE BREAK--- Ms. Laurie I_lie October 5, 1992 consistency of the General Plan with all other applicable plans, including: 1991 AIr Quality Management Plan Local Adopted Congestion Management Program (impacts on established levels of service) Any other regional plans (Regional Growth Management Plan, etc.) that are applicable to the General Plan. The General Plan should be analyzed for inclusion of the goals, objectives, assumptions and measures for effectiveness contained within the regional plans. The analysis should incorporate other elements of the General Plan which, establish policies and action strategies consistent with the requirements of the applicable regional plans. Although Plant 42 and the Paimdale Regional Airport are not within the jurisdiction of the City, the existing setting should discuss the future background concentrations for the City due to these facilities. Due to the regional nature of these facilities, they could create significant cumulative impacts. These facilities should be included in the cumulative impact analysis. The District staff is available to assist in correcting these deficiencies in the Final EIR. Before the Draft EIR is certified, these deficiencies should be revised and a copy sent to the District for review. Upon submittal, District staff will review and comment on the revised analysis. The District appreciates the opportunity to comment on the proposed Draft E, and looks forward to receiving a revised analysis prior to the issuance of project approval. If you have any further questions, please contact Connie Day, Program Supervisor, at (714) 396-3055. Sincerely, OCADO$ Cindy S. Greenwald Planning Manager awotS Wd8S:E0 ?6 90 IDO ---PAGE BREAK--- RESPONSE TO COMMENTS PALMDALE WATER DISTRICT (PWD), Harold M. Fones, General Manager, September 18, 1992. (Note: The first several comments relate to the General Plan Public Services Element. Comments related to the EIR begin on page 2, 5th paragraph ("on page 3-197").) PWD #1 In 1990, Littlerock Creek Irrigation District received 400 acre-feet of their 2,300 AFY state water entitlement, or 17 percent. Palmda.ie Water District received approximately 8,100 acre-feet (47 percent) of their state water entitlements. AVEK received approximately 41,500 acre-feet of state water in 1990, or 30 percent of their entitlement. The remaining water purveyors in the Palmdale Planning area (Los Angeles County Waterworks, White Fence Farms, Land Projects, Sunnyside Farms, Westside Park, Quartz Hill Water District, and USAF Plant 42) in 1990 supplemented the local groundwater with approximately 23,200 acre-feet of State Water Project water bought from AVEK. This represents approximately 55.9 percent of AVEK's 1990 supply. Although the Planning Area represents a small portion of AVEK's service area, it is densely populated and contains more urban uses compared to most of AVEK's area. Thus, AVEK does not supply water according to the size of a water retailer's service area, but according to the purveyors demand and ability to pay. See Corrections and Additions PWD #2 See Corrections and Additions PWD #3 Please see page 3-204 of the EIR for a discussion of the Palmdale Water District's treatment plant. Also see Corrections and Additions PWD #4 Please see Corrections and Additions PWD #5 See Corrections and Additions PWI) #6 See Corrections and Additions PWD #7 See response to PWD #1 above and Corrections and Additions The analysis on pages 4-172 and 4-173 clearly and adequately describes the potential limits on future water availability, especially with regard to groundwater. Other water purveyors, including the Los Angeles County Waterworks District, are working to increase the use of imported water and decrease reliance on the local groundwater supply. The policies and programs of the General Plan emphasize water conservation, the use of reclaimed water, and funding for new water conveyance and treatment facilities. See also SCAG response JOB/4010003.RTC 2 ---PAGE BREAK--- PALMDALE WATER DISTRICT (PWD2), Harold M. Fones, General Manager, September 21, 1992. PWD2 #1 See response to PWD #1 above. PWD2 #2 Comment noted. No incorrect reference to the word recharge was found in the Public Services section of the EIR. LOS ANGELES COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (LAPW and LAPW/Waterworks), T. A. Tidemanson, Director of Public Works, September 22, 1992. LAPW #1 Please see pages 4-135 to 4-145 of the draft E which discuss the City's objectives, policies, and implementation programs which serve as mitigation measures for growth associated with the proposed General Plan. These include programs that will ensure that appropriate street improvements will occur based upon the needs generated by a development; that environmental review of new development proposals will occur in order to identify impacts and mitigation measures; and that developer fees are collected. LAPW #2 Section 4.2.9 of the DEIR indicates that a total of 13 roadway segments within the planning area would operate at LOS D, E, or F at buildout of the land uses associated with the General Plan, Eleven of the roadway segments currently operate at LOS C or higher and would be considered significantly impacted. The policies and implementation programs of the Circulation and other General Plan elements would minimize or eliminate most traffic impacts associated with buildout. The city is not currently considering a reduction in land use densities from those indicated in the proposed land use plan. LAPW #3 Please see Corrections and Additions #F and (Note: Comments 1 through 6 from County Waterworks in Attachment 1 relate to the General Plan. EIR comments begin with comment LAPWfWaterworks #7 Comment noted. However, the information included in this section was based in part on a white paper produced by the Waterworks (Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts Report on Existing and Projected Water Demands and Source of Supply for the Antelope Valley, March 1991). This paper stated that the: "natural recharge from the watershed area varying from a minimum of 40,700 acre- feet to a maximum of 76,000 acre-feet for an average of 58,000 acre-feet per year." This statement references the DWR (1979 and 1980) and USGS (1967 and 1976) studies. Additionally, the white paper states that the "groundwater basin has a storage capacity of approximately 68 million acre-feet.." and sites the DWR (1979 and 1980). See Corrections and Additions LAPW/Waterworks #8 See Corrections and Additions JO8/4010003.RTC 3 ---PAGE BREAK--- LAPW/Waterworks #9a The disagreement exists not only between the sources referenced in the document but between water purveyors of the Antelope Valley, the County Waterworks, and other interested parties. The statement on page 3-63 (paragraph 3; "It should be noted that there is disagreement on these storage and extraction figures.") was added to recognize that there are concerned agencies and individuals who may disagree with the storage and extraction rates adopted by the DWR and DWP. As to the disagreement on extraction figures, please see Corrections and Additions Number LAPW/Waterworks #9b See Corrections and Additions LAPWlWaterworks #9c See Corrections and Additions LAPW/Waterworks #10 Information on the groundwater aquifer varies: a study prepared by Richard Slade in 1989 concluded that water levels in the vicinity of Avenue 0 and 10th Street West are declining at average rates of 2.5 to 3.6 feet per year; however, a study prepared by C.B. Loundagin in 1990 stated that between 90th Street West and 60th Street West and Avenue I and Avenue G, water levels have risen since 1970 by approximately 53 feet. Based on these site specific studies, it is difficult to draw general conclusions regarding the status of the groundwater table. However, the data tends to support the comment and the paragraph will be revised. See Corrections and Additions LAPW/Waterworks #11 Please see pages 3-197 to 3-198 for discussion of limits on AVEK's state water entitlement. In calendar year 1991, AVEK purchased 15,725 acre-feet of water from local ranchers with groundwater wells and 7,190 acre-feet from the State Water Project. See also Corrections and Additions LAPWIWaterworks #12 Revised water consumption factors have been incorporated. See Corrections and Additions #A and ffE. LAPW/Waterworks #13 The Acton Water Treatment Plant was sized to serve residents of Acton. However, because of the proximity of Palmdale Water District facilities, it would be possible to have an interdistrict link for water exchange if capacity is available and the agencies choose to do so. LAPW/Waterworks #14 See Corrections and Additions LAPW/Waterworks #lSa See Corrections and Additions LAPW/Waterworks #lSb See Corrections and Additions LAPW/Waterworks #16 See Corrections and Additions #HH. LAPW/Waterworks #17 See Correcdons and Additions LAPWlWaterworks#18 There are various interpretations of the degree to which groundwater supplies will affect the future of water availability in Palmdale. However, as stated on page 4-55, the potential depletion of groundwater resources will be dependent on the amount of recharge and on the availability of alternative sources. As noted in the comment letter, the groundwater supply is not entirely dependent on the amount JOB/4010003.RTC 4 ---PAGE BREAK--- of recharge, but also on imported water supplies. The analysis in the DEIR shows that the availability of future water supplies to support the anticipated growth, including both groundwater and imported water, cannot be taken for granted. Although the Los Angeles County Waterworks intends to shift 80 percent of its water source to imported water to relieve pressure on the groundwater basin, state water project entitlements cannot be guaranteed if drought cycles continue or occur again. The policies and implementation programs in the General Plan and the DEIR will enable the City of Palmdale to use water more efficiently, coordinate with water purveyors to seek new water supplies, and provide the infrastructure necessary to convey water to the population. Therefore, if imported sources of water are available, no significant impacts to water resources are anticipated with implementation of the mitigation measures. Revisions have been made to the text to clarify the role of imported water. See Corrections and Additions H. See also response to SCAG LAPW/Waterworks #19 See response to LAPW/Waterworks #10 for a discussion of various estimates of groundwater levels, as well as Corrections and Additions Declining groundwater levels are referenced by Richard Slade, 1989 as noted. See Corrections and Additions T regarding water conservation programs conducted by Waterworks. LAPW(Waterworks #20 A certain amount of water is necessary to allow sediment to settle, thereby resurfacing the lake beds. In the last several years, the lake beds have not received enough water to allow this resurfacing. Edwards Air Force Base conducted a study to determine the range of adequate volume to resurface the dry lake beds. In addition, a USGS study of rainwater amounts in the Palmdale/Lancaster area will contribute information on the amount of rainwater needed to resurface the lakes. The DEIR notes that, with future development, existing sources of surface water that could aid in resurfacing the lake beds may be channelized, such as the proposed channelization of Axnargosa Creek. Water that currently reaches the lake beds (when there are sufficient rains) may be lost, redirected, or otherwise changed. Channelization of Amargosa Creek could increase the velocity of runoff to the lake beds, which may wash soil from the landing strip rather than resurfacing it. LAPW/Waterworks #21 Groundwater cw iy provides about half of the water provided by the Palmdale Water District art. ' percent of that provided by the Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts. As such, groundwater is an important component of the future supplies for the City of Palmdale. If drought conditions continue or occur again as the city develops, the availability of state water sources will not be guaranteed. However, because the local water agencies are encouraging the use of imported water, the groundwater levels are not the only deterir i.nt of future water supplies. See Corrections and Additions V. DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES (DWR), Keith Barrett, Chief Division of Operations and Maintenance, August 17, 1992. DWR #1 See Corrections and Additions DWR #2 See Corrections and Additions JOB/4010003.RTC 5 ---PAGE BREAK--- COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICTS (SAN), David B. Lambert, Project Engineer, August 26, 1992. SAN #1 Please see Corrections and Additions # 0. SAN #2 The policies and implementation programs presented on pages 4-181 to pages 4- 87 on the Draft ELR will mitigate impact to both wastewater treatment facilities ad conveyance facilities. In addition, please see Corrections and Additions SAN #3 See Corrections and Additions SAN #4 Comment noted. See response to SCAG #2 above. LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT (LACFD), John T. Haggenmiller, Acting Chief, Forestry Division Prevention Bureau, September 8, 1992. LACFD #1 Please see page 4-87 of the Draft EIR. This provides a discussion of the Open Space Category of the proposed general plan. Approximately 709 acres of ue Planning Area has been designated as open space. The Native Desert Vegetan Ordinance is described on page 4-74. LACFD #2 The City of Palmdale has adopted landscaping standards (see page 4-74 of the DEIR) that emphasize the use of compatible native plants for newly graded areas and sets guidelines for landscaping and irrigation. These standards, together with the Native Desert Vegetation Ordinance and the Hillside Management Ordinance encourage the use of native and low fuel volume plants in new development and developments requiring revegetation. DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION (SDC), Office of the Director, Deborah L. Hernnai, Environmental Program Coordinator, September 21, 1992. SDC #1 The City of Palmdale has established Mineral Resource Management policie has forwarded these policies to the Mining and Geology Board for revies comment. The policies have been revised according to the comments receive have been resubmitted to the Board for review and approval. Pages ER-9 th; ER-il of the General Plan describe these policies. SDC #2 Comment noted. Page 4-37 of the DEER. lists some of the policies that s restrict development within the San Andreas Rift Zone. In addition, page through 9-50 describe the anticipated environmental impacts that would result implementation of the Low Density Land Use Plan Alternative, which ' designate most areas within the rift zone as open space or rural residential u GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF PLANNING AND RESEARCH (OPR), Christine Kinne, Deputy Director, Permit Assistance, September 21, 1992. OPR #1 Statement of close of review period. No response required. JOB/4010003.RTC 6 ---PAGE BREAK--- THE RESOURCES AGENCY (RES), State of California, September 18, 1992. RES #1 Statement of distribution of DEIR. No response required. CiTY OF LANCASTER (LAN), Susan J. Barnett, Environmental Coordinator, September 22, 1992. LAN #1 The roadway classification for Avenue L west of 90th Street West is, according to the proposed Palmdale General Plan, a regional roadway. The exhibit showing highway classifications (Exhibit C-I in the General Plan) is incorrect. The major and minor roadway classifications for 90th Street West, 50th Street West, 20th Street East, 80th Street West, and 70th Street West are based on current traffic volumes that warrant these classifications. There is a distinct decrease in traffic volumes at Avenues L and M because of commonly used commuter routes to and from the USAF Plant 42. Traffic volumes on Avenue M from 30th Street West to Challenger Way warrant the regional classification. Policy C 1.1.2 of the proposed Circulation Element indicates that the city will cooperate with Caltrans and other affected jurisdictions to establish and adopt standards for regional expressways and Policy C1.8.2 states that the city will coordinate with other jurisdictions to integrate circulation networks. The City of Palmdale engineer will review roadway classifications as development is proposed to determine whether the classifications and right-of-way reserved are appropriate. The engineer will also review information from other jurisdictions, including the City of Lancaster to determine the appropriate classifications. LAN #2 Comment noted. See Corrections and Additions Z. THE CiTY OF SANTA CLARITA (SC), Lynn M. Harris Deputy City Manager, September 23, 1992. SC #1 The traffic model for the proposed Palmdale General Plan assumes an average or typical density for residential and non-residential land uses. Table 4-10 on page 4- 94 of the DEIR indicates both the maximum and typical densities for all land uses proposed. For several categories of residential land uses, the maximum and typical densities are the same, the typical densities for mobile home parks, multi-family residential and the highest density single family residential categories are lower than the maximum, current County of Los Angeles plans and the updated Lancaster General Plan were used to determinethe amount of cumulative development. SC #2 The City of Palmdale would support improvements to regional transportation corridors such as SR-14. The city does not have jurisdiction over this, roadway, and therefore did not identify SR 14 for improvements in the General Plan. Caltrans indicates (letter dated September 25, 1992) that SR-14 currently has 6 travel lanes north of Avenue P-8 and 5 travel lanes south of Avenue P-8 through the planning area. Caltrans further indicates that 7 travel lanes are planned for SR-14 south of Avenue P-8 for the near future. SC #3 Bouquet Canyon Road is identified on Table 3-17 and Exhibit 4-1 (Exhibit 4-1 corresponds to Exhibit C-i of the General Plan) as a secondary roadway; a brief discussion of this roadway also appears on page 3-126. However, like several other JOB/4010003.RTC 7 ---PAGE BREAK--- secondary arterials, Bouquet Canyon Road was not listed in Table 3-19 and Table 4-13. Although not specifically listed, the roadway was included in the citywide traffic model prepared by DKS Associates. A model run conducted April 16, 1992 indicates that, at buildout of the General Plan, Bouquet Canyon Road would carry between 8,300 and 9,000 vehicle trips per day in the vicinity of the Palmdale planning area. Assuming a capacity of 12,000 average daily trips for the two land roadway, the volume/capacity ratio would range from 0.69 (LOS B) to 0.75 (LOS Therefore, the model indicates that this roadway would operate at acceptable levels of service in the vicinity of the planning area. Model run data is available for review at the Palmdale Planning Department. SC #4 A number of objectives and policies in the proposed Circulation Element would reduce commuter trips from Palmdale to the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles. Additional policies would reduce local trips. These policies include TDM Plans, ridesharing, and requiring residential developments to contribute toward city programs to reduce trips. Public transit options within the planning area would also be promoted, including bus, rail, and bicycle facilities and routes. SCAG staff has determined that Palmdale's policies and implementation plans meet these goals (see response to SCAG #16, and #17). Future development projects must comply with the County's Congestion Management Plan; impacts to the regional CMP network must be mitigated in accordance with the Plan. The combination of the proposed short-term and long term transportation and land use policies contained in the proposed General Plan will reduce VMT and minimize significant transportation impacts. sc #5 See responses to SCAG #4 and SCAG #15. RESPONSE TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS (SCAG), Arnold Sherwood, Director, Forecasting and Monitoring, September 21, 1992. SCAG #1 The goals, objectives, and policies of the proposed General Plan provide a comprehensive plan that will provide the infrastructure needed for new development in a phased manner as growth occurs. Implementation of the city's policies for land use, transportation, and public services and utilities will limit or prohibit new development until the appropriate infrastructure is in place. SCAG #2 Please see pages 4-181 to 4-184 of the Draft EIR. These pages list the policies from the proposed Public Services element of the General Plan to mitigate impacts on the sewer system. These policies establish provisions for funding and to implement improvements prior to project development (PS1.1.3, PS1.1.4,PS1.1.5, PS1.1.6, PS1.4.3, PS1.4.4, PS2.2.2); to design the infrastructure system to meet the ultimate demands of the planning area in a timely manner (PS1.2.4, PSI.2.5), PS1.3.5, PS1.4.7); and for the continual evaluation of the sewer system through the coordination of the City of Palmdale and Los Angeles County Sanitation District (PS 1.5.3, PS2.2.1, PS2.2.3, PS2.2.5). In addition, pages 4-184 to 4-187 describes the implementation programs that will reduce impacts to sewer services, including CEQA review, data collection for service providers, capital improvement programs, facility master planning, and water conservation and reclamation techniques. JOB/4010003.RTC ---PAGE BREAK--- As discussed in Corrections and Additions # 0, the local sewage treatment plants are operating near capacity. However, the Sanitation Districts are planning to expand the capacities of the Palmdale Water Reclamation Plant and the Lancaster Water Reclamation Plant to 15 mgd and 16 mgd, respectively, by 1994. The Sanitation Districts charges the developer a $1,100 per dwelling unit sewer connection fee which is used to fund incremental treatment plant expansions. This fee is periodically increased to acc odate growth. It has been the District's policy and practice to expand existing atment facilities, or to purchase land for new treatment facilities, in advance of development. The proposed General Plan policies would support and encourage this practice. The policies and approach of the General Plan were determined to be consistent with the approach set forth in the 1991 and supportive policies in the 1989 Growth Management Plan (GMP) in a memo dated September 22, 1992 and at a meeting (October 1, 1992) with City of Palmdale staff. SCAG #3 As illustrated on pages 4-174 to 4-179, the City has proposed multiple policies and implementation programs which will ensure adequate fi.rnding for new water conveyance and treatment facilities as well as improvements to existing systems. Additionally, the policies and programs will require that onsite and offsite improvements needed to serve proposed developments are in place prior to occupancy. Thus, a development will not occur within the Planning Area unless adequate water system capacity exists to support the project. Data indicates that there is currently not enough water to serve the City of Palmdale and planning area at buildout of the General Plan, as is true for most localities in Southern California. AVEK, the source of much of the planning area's water, has projected that water resources will be sufficient to support a population of approximately 532,000 in the Antelope Valley in 2010, assuming full entitlement from the state water project. Population projections in the updated Lancaster General Plan and the proposed Palmdale General Plan anticipate a combined population of 560,000 within the two planning areas. Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts suggests a ratio of 80 percent imported water to satisfy demand in the Antelope Valley. The population served by AVEK's imported water would serve approximately 95 percent of the projected population; the balance would be served by groundwater resources. Therefore, water service in 2010 will be sufficient to serve the needs of the projected population. However, as stated in the DEIR (see pages 8-7 and 8-13), if adequate supplies of water are available from the state water project, if water conservation and recharge programs are successful, and the phased infrastructure program is followed, no significant impacts are anticipated. Otherwise, alternative sources of water would need to be developed before additional development can be accommodated. If these measures are not successful, a significant cumulative impact on water resources will occur. SCAG #4 The objectives of the Palmdale General Plan are consistent with the policies of the 1989 GMP and with the approaches contained in the 1991 Air Quality Management Plan as determined by SCAG staff (Local Assistance and Compliance Committee). Several policies in the proposed Circulation Element (C1.8.1, C1.8.2, C2.1.5, etc.) require coordination with other jurisdictions and agencies to evaluate and propose solutions to regional transportation issues, to integrate circulation networks, and comply with the County's Congestion Management Plan (CMP). Implementation programs that contribute to these goals include the development review process, J0B14010003.RTC 9 ---PAGE BREAK--- CEQA review, compliance with the CMP, capital improvements, a transportation demand management ordinance, and inter-agency coordination. See also responses SCAG #2 and #3 regarding the phasing of public utilities with development. SCAG #5 As noted above in response SCAG the City of Palmdale's policies and implementation programs, which serve as the mitigation measures for growth associated with the General Plan, provide for coordination with other jurisdictions, including the City of Lancaster. The goals and objectives of the proposed General Plan are consistent with those of th GMP, as is the General Plan update for the City of Lancaster, and, therefore, there is no need to enter into a separate agreement with Lancaster. The proposed Palmdale General Plan will allow for the development of a balanced community with infrastructure phased with new development to reduce the local and regional impacts of growth. SCAG #6 See response to SCAG #2 above. The planned expansion of the Palmdale and Lancaster water reclamation plants will provide sufficient capacity for development over the next several years. Through the policies and implementation programs that tie new development to the provision of infrastructure, the proposed General Plan acknowledges that some development may be delayed until this capacity is available. The County Sanitation Districts has indicated that the capacity of conveyance and treatment facilities will be limited to levels associated with approved growth identified in the adopted GMP and AQMP. SCAG #7 See response to SCAG above. SCAG #8 The proposed Circulation Element and DEIR describe the improvements proposed to the local circulation system that will reduce the amount of local traffic that uses SR 14 (Antelope Valley Freeway). Traffic projections from the Lancaster General Plan were incorporated into the traffic model for the Palmdale General Plan. Development of the traffic model, future roadway improvements, and future levels of service are described on pages 4-118 through 4-130 of the DEIR. The model assumes 4 lanes in each direction on SR-14 at General Plan buildout. The plan recommends regional improvements to expand SR-14 to 5 lanes in each direction between Avenue L and Crown Valley Parkway. In addition, a new east-west freeway and a new north-south freeway were assumed. The traffic model output indicates anticipated volumes of from 82,000 to 153,000 vehicles per day on SR 14 within the planning area, resulting in levels of service from A to C. As buildout will not occur for a minimum of 50 years, these projections may change with the next General Plan update. SCAG #9 The City of Palmdale, and the General Plan and DEIR, acknowledge that the policies and procedures of the 1991 AQMP apply to the Antelope Valley. As stated on page 4-105 of the DEW, buildout of the General Plan at typical (expected) densities would result in development of 139,205 housing units in the planning area. At the 1992 average household size of 3.17, these units would result in a population at buildout of approximately 441,280 persons. SCAG staff determined that the goals, objectives, and policies of the General Plan are consistent with the approached in the 1991 AQMP and the 1989 GMP (staff memo dated September 22, 1992). The discussion of air quality impacts at buildout is based on this population figure and projected vehicle trips numbering 3,528,026 (see page 4-44 of the DEW). The JOB/4010003.RTC 10 ---PAGE BREAK--- DEIR states that the anticipated increase in mobile and utility emissions resulting from development associated with the General Plan would be significant (see pages 4-42 and 4-47 of the DEIR). Although the policies and implementation programs would substantially reduce the increase in emissions, the increase cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level due to anticipated population and development increases. SCAG #10 Comment noted. SCAG #11 Comment noted. The City of Palmdale will prepar an Air Quality Element to coordinate and support the goals of the 1991 AQMP. At this time, trip used in the UREMIS model (EMFAC7 analysis) will be adjusted, as necessary, to reflect current conditions in the Antelope Valley. With the development of commercial and industrial uses within the planning area, and the availability of employment opportunities within the area, the average trip are expected to decrease for home to work trips. See Corrections and Additions #FF. SCAG #12 Comment noted. The "Carbon Monoxide Protocol" will be incorporated in the city's Air Quality Element which will govern the analysis of transportation and other projects within the city. SCAG #13 The DEIR presents the calculated mobile emissions that would result from the anticipated 3,528,026 vehicle trips at buildout of the General Plan. The emissions model incorporates a trip length for each vehicle trip, resulting in a total VMT of 20,317,195 at buildout of the planning area. See Corrections and Additions #GG. SCAG #14 The City will incorporate transportation control measures in the city's Air Quality Element. The City of Palmdale is currently implementing TCM 2a) employer rideshare and transit incentive and TCM 2t) HOV facilities. The city will also implement TCM 4) auto use restriction, through the adoption of an Air Quality Element. See Corrections and Additions #FF. SCAG #15 Comment noted. The policies and implementation programs of the Environmental Resources Management Element support the goals of the 1991 AQMP. In addition, the City of Palmdale will prepare an Air Quality Element. See Corrections and Additions #FF. SCAG #16 Page 4-51 of the General Plan DEIR states that the city will prepare and implement a trip reduction ordinance to reduce mobile source emissions. The preparation of a trip reductio ordinance was also agreed to during a meeting with SCAG and city staff. The combination of the trip reduction ordinance the other air quality policies and implementation programs proposed in the General Plan, and the preparation and implementation of an Air Quality Element/Action Plan, will reduce the air quality impacts of development to the maximum extent feasible. As stated on page 4-55, due to the amount of vacant land available for development within the planning area, and the population increase expected to result from this development, the increase in air emissions from General Plan buildout cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. JOB/4010003.RTC 11 ---PAGE BREAK--- SCAG #17 In a SCAG staff memo dated September 22, 1992, and in a meeting with city staff, SCAG staff determined that the Palmdale General Plan and DEIR are consistent with and incorporate the major objectives of the GMP and 1991 AQMP. See also SCAG response #16 above. SCAG #18 Subsequent to the drafting of this comment letter, and as indicated in SCAG responses #16 and #17 above, SCAG staff determined that the General Plan and DEIR were consistent with the goals and approaches of the 1991 AQMP and the 1989 GMP. The DIER acknowledges that buildout of the proposed land use plan would result in significant increases in the levels of CO, NOx, and ROG due to the large amount of currently undeveloped land. However, with the implementation of the recommended policies and programs, these increases would be mitigated to the maximum extent feasible. SCAG #19 The most recent emissions factor model will be used to update the Co analysis for the planning area during preparation of the Air Quality Element, as will current existing air quality data from AQMD. Negative impacts from dust emissions are described on page 4-49 of the DEW. Section 4.2.9 of the DEW describes the future proposed roadway network and future projected levels of services for major roadway segments. This section shows that under future buildout conditions, 13 roadway segments would operate at LOS D, E, or F (see also Table 4-13). The transportation and air quality sections of the DEIR discuss cumulative air quality impacts resulting from development of the planning area, and discuss the policies and implementation programs proposed to mitigate these impacts. Page 8-6 of the DEW states that air quality impacts that will occur in the region as a result of General Plan and cumulative development, will result in air quality impacts that cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level. SCAG #20 Policies and programs in the transportation section (Section 4.2.9) provide for the phasing of future development with local and regional infrastructure. SCAG staff determine (memo dated September 23, 1992) that the General Plan's goals, objectives, and policies would "efficiently and equitably provide infrastructure for new development in accordance with the objectives of SCAG's GMP. . . (and) is clearly consistent with approaches set forth in the 1991 AQMP and supportive policies in the 1989 GMP." SCAG #21 Housing costs and ability to pay, based on current and projected employment, is described on pages H-60 through H-66 of the Housing Element. As described in Section 4,2.8 of the DEW (pages 4-104 through 4-114), housing costs in the Palmdale area are generally less expensive than those in surrounding areas because of the availability of large amounts of undeveloped land. Currently, this results in a housing-rich situation within the planning area and mean travel time to work of 41 minutes, compared to the county-wide mean travel time of 26 minutes. However, the proposed land use plan and the polic:es and implementation programs in the General Plan will provide for a transition to a self-sufficient community with a balance of jobs and housing, and eventually to a jobs-rich area. Future jobs opportunities within the planning area are anticipated to be in the industrial and commercial sectors through 2010 (page H-41 of the Housing Element). SCAG #22 See response to SCAG #2 above. JOB/4010003.RTC 12 ---PAGE BREAK--- SCAG #23 See SCAG response #14 above. ANTELOPE VALLEY ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY, INC. (AVAS), Mark Campbell, President, September 19, 1992. AVAS #1 Comment noted. The policy provides adequate provision for new studies pursuant to Appendix K of the CEQA Guidelines. No changes are recommended to the policy at this time. See also responses AVAS #2 and AVAS #2 The sensitivity map will be prepared by city planning department staff, with input from the agencies and organizations listed in Table 1, Archaeological Resources, of Appendix A of the DEIR. These organizations include the UCLA Archaeology Information Center, the Native American Heritage Commission, the Antelope Valley Archaeological Society (see Correctic d Additions #DD) and archaeological/historical information maps. The map will be refined, based on the map currently in use. AVAS #3 Comment noted. As noted in response AVAS the policy in question provides adequate provision for new studies pursuant to Appendix K of the CEQA Guidelines. City staff will have some discretion in requiring studies for projects at sites that are "reasonably suspected" of containing resources. This will reduce the likelihood of unnecessary studies for small, infill projects and those not likely to contain resources, but provide for studies in areas where resources are reasonably anticipated to occur. AVAS #4 The areas shaded to indicate a moderately high probability of containing archaeological resources are identified as such because of the wide distribution of known prehistoric sites and the topography of the area (including dry washes and channels, sandy plains, and alluvial slopes). The rift zone is thought to have a high probability of additional sites because of the availability of water and food resources, and based on the number of sites already recorded in this zone. However, as noted in the comment and on page ER-60 of the proposed Environmental Resources Element, much of the planning area has not been surveyed for the presence of cultural resources. See Corrections and Additions AA. AVAS #5 Comment noted. This recommendation will be considered when requirements for archaeological surveyors are determined. AVAS #6 Table H-i, a listing of potential historic structures within the Palmdale planning area, was obtained from the West Antelope Valley Historical Society and may not consider all potential historic structures within the planning area. See Corrections and Additions #BB. AVAS #7 Comment noted. SeeP Corrections and Additions #CC. AVAS #8 Page 3-87 of the DEIR notes that the golden eagle is a California Department of Fish Game species of special concern. As noted in the DEIR, the golden eagle is a wide ranging species that typically nest on isolated rocky crags. The species is sparsely distributed and may occasionally forage over the Palmdale planning area. iOB/4010003.RTC 13 ---PAGE BREAK--- AVAS #9 The full implementation of mitigation measures, in the form of the objectives, policies, and implementation programs in the Environmental Resource Element, will reduce impacts to a less than significant level. The city recognizes that some resources may be lost or damaged through development of the planning area, but these losses will be minimized by full implementation of the mitigation measures. AVAS #10 See Corrections and Additions #DD. LEONA VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL (LVTC), M. Johnstone, Vice President, August 27, 1992, LVTC #1 Bouquet Canyon Road forms a portion of the western boundary of the City of Palmdale planning area. Maps in the General Plan will be modified, as necessary, to reflect this. LVTC #2 See response SC above. LVTC #3 Roadway improvements identified in the Circulation Element and described in Section 4.2.9 (beginning on page 4-115) of the DEIR identify Elizabeth Lake Road as a major arterial from 100 Street West to 25th Street West and as a regional arterial from 25th Street West to Division Street. As discussed on page 4-120, a major arterial will have a design width of 104 feet, allowing for 6 through lanes and a median, or a design width of 114 feet, to allow for 6 through lanes, a median, and bicycle lanes in each direction. Elizabeth Lake Road currently has 2 through lanes west of 25th Street West. The roadway classifications and design are based on traffic volumes provided by DKS. Model run data is available for review at the Palmdale Planning Department. LVTC #4 The developed portions of Leona Valley are not included within the Palmdale planning area. Those portions of Ritter Ranch are within the sphere of influence; therefore this area must be included in the planning area. LVTC #5 Current and future anticipated traffic volumes indicate that Elizabeth Lake Road be classified as a major arterial. LVTC #6 The City of Palmdale General Plan does not set land use designations for Leona Valley. However, implementation program G, coordination of land use decisions (page 4-98 of the DEW) will implement coordination with jurisdictions and homeowners' groups outside the planning area to review proposed development for compatibility and consistency with existing adjacent development. LVTC #7 See LVTC response Characteristics of the Leona Valley are considered in each section of the DEW (biological resources, natural resources, earth, risk of upset, etc.) that would interface with the planning area. The area is often included in the descriptions of the San Andreas Rift Zone, the southwestern planning area, and hillside residential areas. LVTC #8 At the present time, the sale of safe and sane fireworks is legal within the City of Palmdale. No distinction is made between rural and urban areas. JOB/4010003.RTC 14 ---PAGE BREAK--- LVTC #9 The state Local Agency Formation Committee has established the sphere of influence for the City of Palmdale General Plan. The sphere of influence extends west to 80th Street West. Most residents of Leona Valley are located west of 80th Street West, outside the city's sphere of influence. The City understands and respects the community's wish to remain outside the sphere of influence. LVTC #lOa See SCAG response #3 regarding water supply for the Antelope Valley in 2010. If no water was available from the aLe water project, it is unlikely that the aquifer could support the valley's water demand for a sustained period. However, mitigation measures provide for the seasonal storage of groundwater, water conservation measures, and the se of reclaimed water. Future development will be tied to the provision of water service; therefore, development will not be permitted unless the capacity to serve the development exists. In this manner, significant impacts to water facilities will be mitigated to less than significant levels. LVTC #lOb Future plans of water purveyors will emphasize the use of imported water to reduce reliance on local groundwater. There is no plan to increase groundwater supplies 8.5 times; studies for this have not been conducted. As indicated in Correction and Addition the aquifer has the ability to hold 68 million acre-feet of water. As indicated on pat e 3-63 of the DEIR, there is approximately 13 million acre-feet of storage capacir; within the aquifer. Pages 4-59 through 4-63 list policies and implementation programs to minimize the impacts of development on water resources. These policies and programs include water conservation and reclamation, maximizing groundwater recharge, and coordination with local water agencies to monitor groundwater levels, state water allocations, and development approvals, to ensure that development does not outpace long-term water availability. LVTC #11 The attached comments (dated February 1990) address a previous version of the proposed General Plan and do not address the General Plan DEIR. The currently proposed General Plan has been substantially changed since 1990. ANTELOPE VALLEY BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (BIA), Richard H. Norris, Executive Director, September 23, 1992. BIA #1 The bulleted items on page 4-40 list various measures recommended by the South Coast Air Quality Management District for possible inclusion in the city's Transportation Demand Management Ordinance. Subsidized parking without subsidized transit can encourage employees to drive in single-person vehicles; subsidized transit can encourage employees to use public transit systems and reduce the vehicle miles travelled in the planning area, the main goal of this ordinance. BIA #2 As stated on page 4-51, various measures may be included in the trip reduction ordinance, which the city has agreed to prepare and implement as recommended by SCAG. Some of the measures would require the payment of fees if a new development increases the number of vehicle miles travelled (VMT) in the region. The payment of fees would be required if other trip reduction measures would not mitigate the development's contribution to regional VMT and are necessary to comply with the goals and requirements of the Air Quality Management Plan. JOB/4010003.RTC 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- BLA #3 Policy ER5.6. 1, one of the mitigation measures listed to reduce the impacts of future development on air quality, directs that new developments provide and implement plans to reduce vehicle miles travelled (VMT) by persons who will use that development. This will generally be accomplished through the environmental review process. When a new development is proposed, an estimation of the number of trips generated by that development will be made and reviewed by city staff. Measures will be incorporated into the design and operation of the development, as directed by the city, to reduce the VMT associated with the development. Other policies and implementation programs contained in the General Plan, such as encouraging alternative work schedules and requiring transportation demand management plans, will apply to existing development. BIA #4 Comment noted. The General Plan and DEIR describe the sensitive plant and animal species determined by federal and state agencies and the likelihood of their occurrence within the planning area. BLA #5 Exhibit 3-18, Area Vegetation, presents the type of vegetation that dominates each portion of the planning area. Flood zones are presented on Exhibit 3-15 and the location of mineral resources and quarry operations are presented on Exhibit 3-19. BIA #6 The City of Palmdale has been designated by the California Department of Fish and Game as a zone 2 and zone 3 area for the desert tortoise. However, this designation is no longer used. The city is participating in the preparation of the West Mohave Habitat Coordinated Management Plan for the desert tortoise and Mohave ground squirrel with the Bureau of Land Management and California Fish and Game. BIA #7 The paragraph on page 3-88 describes the potential for the presence of the Mohave ground squirrel within the planning area, based on the results of studies conducted in the area. BIA #8 See Corrections and Additions #EE. The balance of the BIA comments address the General Plan. City planning staff met with representatives of the Antelope Valley BIA on October 6, 1992 to discuss these issues. Many of the BIA comments were resolved at this meeting, and city staff will continue to discuss proposed policies and programs with the BIA. The discussions held at the October 6, 1992 meeting do not affect the intent of city policies, nor their ability to mitigate the impacts of development associated with buildout of the General Plan. WAYNE S. SQUIREIMARY G. SQUIRE (WMS), September 8, 1992. WMS #1 The comment letter addresses the rezoning of property and does not address the DEIR on the General Plan. Staff will pass the comment letter to the City Council to consider in land use deliberations. JOB/4010003.RTC 16 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHARLES BRINK (CB), September 23, 1992. CB #1 Comment noted. The impacts of development associated with the proposed General Plan, and the mitigation measures recommended to minimize these impacts, are described in section 4.2 of the DEIR. CB #2 All new construction within the planning area must meet seismic safety standards established by the city and the state to reduce earthquake hazards to acceptable levels. See mitigation measures on page 4-32 through 4-39. CB #3 The Palmdale General Plan was determined to be consistent with regional growth plans adopted by SCAG. See mitigation measures on pages 4-51 through 4-55, which include measures to reduce the total vehicle miles travelled within the planning area. CB #4 See SCAG response and LVTC responses lOa and lob. Future development will not be allowed until public services and utilities, including water, can be provided. CB #5 Mitigation measures for impacts on natural resources are found on pages 4-78 through 4-82, measures to minimize impacts on biological resources are listed on pages 4-73 through 4-75, and those to mitigate land use impacts are noted on pages 4-97 through 4-100. CB #6 Transportation impacts and mitigation measures are described in Section 4.2.9. The sphere of influence boundaries were established by the state Local Agency Formation Committee (LAFCO). At the present time, the City plans to only expand to the sphere lines. The full proposed General Plan and DEIR were available for review at the City of Palmdale on August 10, 1992. No extension in review time has been made. JOB/4010003.RTC 17 ---PAGE BREAK--- EXHIBIT C CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS TO THE EIR TEXT ---PAGE BREAK--- CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS TO THE EIR TEXT (Page 1 of 15) Through the course of Planning Commission and Council public hearings, several policies and implementation measures, which are used in the EIR as mitigation measures, have been revised. Below, these revised policies are listed. For consistency between the EIR and the General Plan, the EIR and Mitigation Monitoring Program will be amended to reflect the revised language wherever these policies appear. SAFETY ELEMENT: Policy 81.1.7: Restrict location of utility lines, whether above or below ground, within an appropriate distance from active fault traces, as determined by geotechnical investigation and approved by the City. Utility lines crossing active fault traces should be specifically designed to withstand the expected movement of the earth in these locations. Utility lines as defined here would include, but not limited to, electricity, water, natural gas, and sewer. Policy 81.2.1: Require that new development should not be exposed to flood hazards or contribute to an existing flood hazard, in accordance with the Ci€y's Floodplain Management Ordinance and related criteria within the City's Engineering Design Standards. Objective S2.6: Minimize exposure of residents to other man-made hazards, to the extent feasible. Policy S2.6.l: If, in the future conclusive evidence links the ELF fields associated with electrical distribution lines, electrical distribution stations, or transformers with deleterious health effects, develop standards for construction, building setbacks, and/or land use restrictions for those areas impacted by hazardous ELF fields. Policy S4.l.3: Require that properties within the City are maintained in a condition free from potential risks to public health, safety and welfare. Safety Implementation Measure A22: Building and Seismic Safety Codes. The City will enforce its building and seismic safety codes which provide minimum standards for the construction of habitable structures, and ensure the structural stability and safety of all development. The Building and Safety Department reviews all construction plans for compliance with codes prior to development. The City's Building and Safety Department responds to citizen concerns regarding unsafe structures and enforces building codes, and the City's Code Enforcement Section requires abatement of all other code violations. Safety Implementation Measure Bl: Standards for Construction and Development. Construction and development standards contained in the Zoning and Building Codes include: S Engineered construction must comply with uniform building code requirements for seismic zones. S Emergency facilities, and sites with explosives and toxic materials, must adhere to more restrictive seismic safety construction. S Emergency facilities shall be set back from known hazard areas (earthquake fault zones, aircraft crash zones, and flood plains). S Critical use structures must conduct geologic/seismic hazards studies before construction, and implement appropriate construction techniques. ---PAGE BREAK--- Exhibit C Corrections and Additions to the EIR Text Page 2 of 15 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES ELEMENT: Policy ER2.1.l: The following broadly defined areas, shown on the Overlay Map and Exhibit ER-5, will be designated as a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) overly on the General Plan Land Use Map: Big Rock Wash, Little Rock Wash, Ritter Ridge, Portal Ridge and Alpine Butte. Biological surveys should be performed to determine the nature and extent of their ecological significance prior to any approval of new developments within the overlay area. Any development permitted in these areas must consider significant environmental resources and preserve environmental resources to the extent feasible. Policy ER2.1.5: Preserve and maintain significant Joshua tree woodlands and other significant habitat areas. Early in the review of development projects, the feasibility of preserving any significant vegetation on-site should be examined. Objective ER4.3: Maintain and furthr the Citys commitment to long-term water management within the Antelope Valley by promoting and encouraging planning for the conservation and managed use of water resources, including groundwater, imported water, and reclaimed water. Policy ER4.3.1: Assess the feasibility of utilizing reclaimed water for landscape irrigation on a city-wide basis. Factors to be considered include the potential quantities of reclaimed water as determined by the Sanitation Districts, and costs associated with developing infrastructure and delivery systems to facilitate utilization. Within those areas in which it is determined to be feasible to utilize reclaimed water, consider establishment of an ordinance requiring installation of secondary water delivery systems to service landscaped areas. Policy ER4.3.2: Work with local water purveyors to assess the potential for capturing local run-off and utilization of imported water (water banking) for groundwater recharge within the Planning Area; through the land use planning process, ensure that important recharge areas are retained for that use. Policy ER4.3.3: Continue to seek out long-range water management techniques as new technology is developed; promote implementation of systems which are feasible and appropriate to the Planning Area. Policy ER4.3.4: Encourage residents and businesses to recycle water where feasible, and where water recycling does not result in health and safety concerns, within their homes and/or businesses. Policy ER4.35: Participate in regional efforts to retain imported water allocations and seek out other sources as they become available. Policy ER5.6.1: Ensure that new development reduces project-related vehicle miles travelled to the maximum extent provided by law. Objective ER6.1: Recognize the regional importance of the classified and designated mineral deposits within Palmdale's Planning Area (as described in Special Report 143, Part V. Classification of Sand and Gravel Resource Areas. Sauaus-Newhpl]. Region and Palmdale Production-Consumption Region, and Designation Report No. 6, Designation of Regionally Sianificant Construction Aggregate Resource Areas in the and Palmdale Production-Consumption Regions and as shown on Exhibits ER-lA and ER-1B) and discourage encroachment of incompatible land uses which could threaten the long-term viability of sand and gravel mining and processing operations in the Little Rock Wash area. ---PAGE BREAK--- Exhibit C Corrections and Additions to the EIR Text Page 3 of 15 Policy ER6.l.2: Prohibit incompatible land uses within the MRE designation. Examples of incompatible land uses include, but are not limited to, residential, some public facilities, intensive industrial and commercial. Policy ER7.1.6: Cooperate with private and public entities whose goals are to protect and preserve historic landmarks and important cultural resources. Environmental Resources Implementation Measure D.2: To reduce mobile source emissions, the City will implement a trip reduction ordinance. The ordinance should consider the umber of vehicle miles travelled (VMT) that are estimated to be generated from and individual development project, in accordance with the requirements of South Coast Air Quality Management District, Los Angeles County Transportation Commission (LACTC) and other affected agencies. Environmental Resources Implementation Measure H: Mining Standards. In accordance with the ,provisions of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) and subsequent amendments, the City of Palmdale has adopted an ordinance implementing mineral resource management policies. Mining within designated aggregate resource areas requires approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) before operations begin. The CUP shall be granted for a period of time as specified by the Planning Commission with renewals approved by the Planning Commission. In addition, renewal of the CUP is dependent on the success of proposed mitigation measures for residual hazards. The ordinance also requires a reclamation plan for returning the site to reusable condition following cessation of mining operations. State environmental regulations require ongoing monitoring of operations to ensure adequate mitigation of adverse impacts. The City has developed standards for mining activity in the Planning Area in conjunction with the Mineral Resource Extraction (lIRE) land use (Exhibit LU-2). Mineral resource extraction is appropriate in these areas, as along as it complies with the following conditions: 1. Approval of a reclamation plan in compliance with the state Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMRA), as amended, and City regulations. 2. Standards for development in areas adjacent to the lIRE designations require that all new residential, commercial or industrial development provide buffering from quarrying operations that will conform to policies contained in the General Plan relating to noise, dust control, traffic or other impacts identified through the environmental review process. Where the Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) land use designation is adjacent to existing or approved but unbuilt development, the responsibility for buffering impacts of quarry operations shall be upon the quarry operator. Where the lIRE designation is adjacent to vacant land which has no approvals for development, the responsibility for buffering shall be shared by the future developer of the vacant property. In all cases, concentrated noise generators shall require buffering from the boundaries of the MRE designation to mitigate noise impacts on adjacent uses. 3. One of the Mineral Resource Extraction area covers a major groundwater recharge area and there exists a potential for groundwater contamination; thus, mining is not permitted below the groundwater level or to a level as determined through environmental analysis. 4. Noise impacts must be minimized by ensuring that the noise level at the property line is 65 dBA CNEL or less, when noise-sensitive uses or designations abut the quarry. ---PAGE BREAK--- Exhibit C Corrections and Additions to the EIR Text Page 4 of 15 5. Mining areas must be fenced with a 6-foot view obstructing fence, wall, or landscaped berm along public streets or adjacent to residential areas. 6. Use of asphalt and petroleum-based materials, or other operations which may impair groundwater quality, in the Mineral Resource Extraction designation are prohibited, unless substantial evidence is provided to demonstrate that such uses will not have significant impact on groundwater or other resources. 7. Safety measures for routine operations shall be established prior to permit approval. 8. As the Little Rock Wash MRE area may potentially contain sensitive ecological habitat, and has been indicated on the General Plan Land Use map as Significant Ecological Area (SEA) overlay zone, appropriate steps shall be taken to identify, and protect any signifipant flora and fauna. 9. All mining operations in the Little Rock Wash area shall incorporate flood plain management provisions into their operations. Exhibit ER-lA is added to the EIR as Exhibit 3-19A; Exhibit ER-lB is added to the EIR as Exhibit 3-19B. PUBLIC SERVICES ELEMENT: Policy P51.1.4: Require that adequate provisions are made, as approved by the City, for main-enance of pu ic improvements or any facility or land to be n.intained by the City prior to approval of any new development project. Policy PS1.1.5: When new development is proposed in vacant, rural areas which have not yet been master planned for provision of infrastructure, require that development proponents provide for or contribute a fair share towards development of regional master facility plans for roads, sewer, water, drainage, schools, libraries, parks, fire and other community facilities, prior to granting conditional approval of development applications. Policy PS1.6.l: Through adoption of an ordinance, regulate utility line and other utility infrastructure placement and require undergrounding where feasible. Policy PS2.l.l: Require new development to obtain adequate water service to meet the increased service needs generated by that development. Policy PS2.13: Promote water conservation and long-term water management in all phases of development planning and construction through the policies and implementation measures contained in the Environmental Resources Element. Policy PS4.l.4: Condition approvals of development projects to meet the funding requirements of applicable school districts to the extent permitted by law. On legislative decisions such as zone changes or General Plan Amendments, require appropriate school mitigation as determined by the affected districts to the extent permitted by law. Policy PS4.2.1: Cooperate with other jurisdictions and public or private agencies to work towards establishment of a four-year college or university in the Antelope Valley. Policy P55.2.4: Provide a program of pro-active community-based policing in selected areas which merit special attention based upon needs for law enforcement, code enforcement, housing rehabilitation, graffiti control, and personal contact with officials capable of providing assistance. ---PAGE BREAK--- Exhibit C Corrections and Additions to the EIR Text Page 5 of 15 Policy PS5.6.3: Promote provision of a full range of public services within the Civic Center plan area, including library, cultural center, sheriff's station, fire station, and City Administration. Policy P55.8.1: Develop or provide a performing arts center to serve a variety of musical, theatrical, exhibit and community needs. LAND USE ELEMENT: Policy L1.3.3: Through the development review process, evaluate proposals with respect to their impacts on adjacent properties, including their impacts on existing uses of those properties, and require that project designs employ appropriate techniques to increase compatibility between uses. Policy L1.4.1c: When land designated for less intensive uses abuts mineral extraction areas, the responsibility for providing adequate buffers should be borne equitably by both quarry operators and adjacent developers, where feasible based upon existing conditions and existing approvals. Policy L3.1.1.g: "Medium Residential (6.1 to 10.0 du/ac): The Medium Residential (MR) designation is intended for residential uses at maximum gross densities ranging from 6 to 10 units per acre. Housing types may include single family detached, single family attached, townhouses, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, apartments, or manufactured housing developments. Permitted structure types will be as specified in the underlying zone district. For single family residential uses within this designation, the minimum permitted lot size is 7,000 square feet, unless otherwise specified in an approved specific plan or planned development offering a variety of lot sizes, housing types, and public amenities, a senior housing project, or other approved development plan. The Medium Residential designation is appropriate within those areas having existing or planned residential uses at 6 to 10 units per acre, which are or will be served by adequate infrastructure and services needed to support this level of development. Maximum permitted density will be determined through the development review process, based upon environmental and infrastructural conditions. Equestrian and large animal uses are not intended within this district". Policy L3.2.6: Require disclosure, as deemed appropriate, on proposed residential developments which are affected by existing conditions such as, but not limited to, noise, dust, odors, light, seismic hazards, and frequent overflight of aircraft. Policy L3.5.5: Require that development is designed to be sensitive to the preservation and protection of the desert environment and that building orientation and design consider and complement the natural characteristics of the desert envi ronnient. Policy L4.l.1.d: Regional Commercial: The Regional Commercial (RC) designation is designed to accommodate retail and service uses attracting consumers from a regional market area. Goods and services provided are typically long-term in nature, rather than convenience goods. Representative uses include department stores, regional shopping malls, automobile dealerships, hotel/motels, and large retail outlets. Supportive commercial uses serving a community commercial function, such as financial institutions, retail and food services, may also be appropriate in this designation, provided that such uses are not primarily oriented to the convenience market. Regional commercial uses should be accessible via major arterial streets or freeways. Total development area within regional commercial designations typically ranges from 40 to 100 acres or more, although ---PAGE BREAK--- Exhibit C Corrections and Additions to the EIR Text Page 6 of 15 individual developments within the designation smaller parcels. Maximum floor area ratio is 1.0. of regional centers should consider pedestrian internal circulation that minimizes impacts arterials. may be on Site design i needs and on adjacent Land Use Element Implementation Measure K.2: The City will notify the Palmdale Community Association and various homeowner's associations on a regular basis of land use decisions and development projects, and consult with representatives of these organizations as appropriate on land use issues. Exhibit 3-19 (LU-6): revise "Existing Quarry Operations." to show additional area as CIRCULATION ELEMENT: Policy C2.2.6: Promote the establishment of a regional transportation center within the City, conveniently located to maximize access to downtown an major commercial centers, which will accommodate a variety of public transportation uses including rail, bus and shuttle service. Circulation Implementation Measure 0: Truck Routes The City will evaluate thE determine the adequacy of and to address the need f various areas of the City. Municipal Code periodically to existing designated truck routes or modified truck routes within HOUSING ELEMENT: Program H1.B: Density Bonus Ordinance (Proposed) In accordance with state law, adopt a density bonus program that includes developer incentives as required by California Government Code 65915. Provide a 25% density bonus for housing developers who make 10% of their units affordable to households earning 50% of median income, 20% of their units affordable to households earning 60% of median income, or 50% of their units to qualifying senior residents. Provide additional density bonuses for housing projects which exceed these levels, to be specified in a density bonus ordinance. NOl SE ELEMENT: Noise Element Implementation Measure Reports The City will require accousi those projects located within existi impact areas, areas subject to singl as deemed necessary by the City. reports shall consider existing and f related noise levels and shall be acoustical engineer with experience assessment and noise control design. analysis reports shall include: B: Accoustical Analysis ical analysis reports for g or future 60 dBA CNEL -event noise episodes or All acoustical analysis iture ambient and project prepared by a qualified in environmental noise Specifically, acoustical • Existing ambient and roadway noise levels recorded by a calibrated noise monitor. • Roadway traffic noise level analysis models determining existing and future noise levels anticipated from proposed projects and related cumulative noise sources. • Noise contour maps. • Surrounding land uses with identification of sensitive noise receptors and noise sources. ---PAGE BREAK--- Exhibit C Corrections and Additions to the EIR Text Page 7 of 15 • Impacts of the project to the existing ambient noise environment. • Noise control measures where needed. • Cumulative impacts due to related projects. * Unavoidable adverse impacts to the project area. • Assessment of impacts from single-event noise episodes Acoustical analysis reports shall evaluate the impacts of the existing noise levels on the proposed project as well as the impact of the project on the existing noise environment. The Planning Department will evaluate projects to ensure that noise sensitive land uses, such as schools, hospitals, and residential developments, will not be located adjacent to sources of noise, when exceeding acceptable levels. Where appropriate, the City will require acoustical analysis reports to include acoustical design for residential development adjacent to freeways or major arterials to achieve the appropriate interior and exterior noise levels through sound insulation, or other means, as indicated in Table N-3. The Planning Department may require developments which will generate large congregations of people or maintain late nighttime hours to provide special mitigation measures, as indicated by the acoustical analysis. ---PAGE BREAK--- CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS A. Page 3-200: Replace Table 3-29 with the following: TABLE 3-29 ESTIMATED EXISTING WATER CONSUMPTION Existing Consumption Estimated Total Land Use Development Factor b Consumption Residential 29,349 du Commercial 529 acres Industrial 1,842 acres Public Facilities 494 acres Total Consumption 760 gpd/duc 22.3 mgd 2,000 gpd/acre 1.0 mgd 3,000 gpd/acre 5.5 mgd 1,500 gpd/acre Q mgd 29.5 mgd mgd = million gallons per day. du = dwelling units Residential development based on 1992 staff estimates. Non-residential development based on MBA land use survey (1989; updated by staff in 1992). See Table 3-11, page 3-102 (Land Use). Consumption factor based on Palmdale Water District and Los Angeles County Public Works Department generation ratio. This figure may overestimate water consumption, since it applies to single-family dwellings that use water for irrigation. Multi-family units, mobile homes, and single family dwellings on smaller lots may not use this much water per household, but this factor, recommended by the Palmdale Water District, provides a worst-case analysis. Source: Michael Brandman Associates 1992. B. Page 3-204: Add the following after the first sentence: 'Plans are currently underway to expand the treatment plant's capacity to 30 mgd." C. Page 3-203: Paragraph 4, last sentence: change $50 per acre-foot to $68 per acre-foot. Delete the following: TMand $123 per acre-foot of treated water" and add the following sentence: "The Palmdale Water District does not buy treated water from the State Water Project." D. Page 3-204: First paragraph. Replace "as well as 5 storage reservoirs with a total capacity of 16 million gallons" with as well as 12 reservoirs with 29 million gallons of treated water storage capacity." E. Page 4-173: Replace Table 4-16 with the following table: JOB/4010003.RTC Page 8 of 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- TABLE 4-16 PROJECTED WATER CONSUMPTION Consumption Water Consumption at Land Use Factor' Proposed General Plan Buildout Residential Commercial Industrial Public Facilities Total Consumption gpd gallons per day mgd = million gallons per day. 760 gpd/du' 105.79 mgd 2,000 gpd/acre 17.7 mgd 3,000 gpd/acre 86.1 mgd 1,500 gpd/acre 1.3 mgd 210.9 mgd Consumption factor based on Palmdale Water District and Los Angeles County Public Works Department water consumption rates. Source: Michael Brandman Associates 1992. Additionally, on Page 4-172, fourth paragraph. replace "135.93 million gallons per day (169,731 acre-feet per year)." with "210.9 million gallons per day (236,857 acre-feet per year)." Page 4-172: Last paragraph, last sentence, replace "45 percent" with 033 percent". F. Page 3-205: Insert at the end of the fourth paragraph: "There are approximately 242 miles of local sewers within the jurisdiction of the City of Palmdale which discharge into the County Sanitation District 20 facilities. These sewers are owned by the City but operated by the Consolidated Sewer maintenance District (CSMD) of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. Therefore, future development will be required to annex to the CSMD for sewer operation and maintenance. G. Page 3-62: Third paragraph: Delete the first sentence and replace with: "The groundwater basin is hydrologically isolated, thus, of the three potential variables for groundwater recharge, subsurface flows from adjacent groundwater basins is the least probable means of recharge". H. Page 4-57: Third paragraph, add after second sentence: "It should be noted that the discrepancies in extraction figures are a consequence of differing time periods and conditions. Considering that drought conditions persist and the state water was reduced, agriculture as well as others had to extract larger amounts of groundwater in 1990 compared to 1989. I. Page 3-63: Third paragraph, third sentence: delete the word "safely". iOB/4010003.RTC Page 9 of 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- J. Page 3-63: Third paragraph, second to the last sentence. Change "...the ability to hold 88 million acre-feet of water..." to the ability to hold 68 million acre-feet of water..." K. Pane 3-201: Fifth paragraph. Delete paragraph and replace with the following: Water bought from AVEK is conjunctively used with groundwater pumped from 33 wells of Waterworks Districts 4 and 34 and nine wells of Waterworks 24, 27, and 33. The water systems are interconnected and their operations consolidated. It is the intent of the Department of Public Works to consolidate the Districts to more efficiently operate the "in lieu of pumping" and artificial storage and recovery programs. Generally, approximately 60 percent of the Waterworks Districts' water demands are met by AVEK supplemental water supply and 40 percent from groundwater. In 1990, this amounted to approximately 19,000 acre-feet of AVEK water and approximately 13,300 acre-feet of well water. As facilities are expanded, the Waterworks Districts plan to use 80 percent supplemental water to meet future demands. L. Page 3-203: First paragraph, second sentence. Revise to read as follows: "It has 33 groundwater wells aside from the water bought from AVEK." M. Page 3-203: Second paragraph, first sentence. Revise to read as follows: "Districts 24, 27, and 33 serve the small portions of the City with groundwater and water bought from AVEK." N. PaEe 3-204: Last paragraph, last sentence. Delete last sentence and add: "Little Rock Creek Irrigation District contracts directly with DWR for state water. It supplements this imported water with local groundwater." 0. Page 3-205: Fourth paragraph. Revise the second sentence through the last sentence to read as follows: District 20 is served by the Palmdale Water Reclamation Plant (PWRP) which has an existing design capacity of 8.0 million gallons per day (mgd). Exhibit 3-45 shows historical processing rates at the plant. The existing facility includes storage tanks, digestors, clarifiers, exidation ponds, and evaporation-percolation disposal ponds in two adjacent sites. Because the PWRP currently treats an average flow of 8.1 mgd, the Sanitation Districts are presently expanding the treatment capacity through surface aeration of the existing oxidation ponds. Stage IV of the ongoing PWRP expansion will increase the design capacity of the treatment plant to 15 mgd by 1994. Page 3-206: First paragraph. Delete the second and third sentences and add the following at the end of the paragraph: The Lancaster Water Reclamation Plant (LWRP) has a design capacity of 10 mgd and presently treats an average flow of 8.2 mgd. In order to meet the current service demand, the Sanitation Districts and expanding the treatment capacity of the LWRP through surface aeration of the existing oxidation ponds. Stage IV of the ongoing expansion will increase the design capacity of the treatment plant to 16 mgd and is scheduled to be completed in late 1994. 10814010003.RTC Page 10 of 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 3-2 12: Revise Table 3-31 to read as follows: TABLE 3-31 SEWER FLOW PROJECTIONS District 20 District 14 Total Flow (mgd) Current Capacity 8.0 10.0 18.0 Planned Expansion (by 1994) 15.0 16.0 31.0 2010 Projections: 12-month regression 50.0 37.0 87.0 24-month regression 40.0 27.0 67.0 36-month regression 26.0 21.0 47.0 Source: Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts 1992. Page 4-181: First paragraph. In the first sentence, change "2.8 times" to "6.3 times" and in the second sentence, change "additional 4.2 mgd" to "additional 13 mgd". Revise the third sentence to read as follows: "This is 27.5 percent of the projected need." P. Page 4-181: Add after the second paragraph: "There are approximately 242 miles of local sewers within the jurisdiction of the City of Palmdale which discharge into the County Sanitation District 20 facilities. These sewers are owned by the City but operated by the Consolidated Sewer maintenance District (CSM1)) of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. The existing conveyance facilities can support a limited amount of development before their capacity is met. Additionally, in order to serve proposed projects, sewer collectors and trunk sewers will need to be extended into undeveloped areas. Future development will be required to annex to the CSMD for operational and maintenance purposes." Q. Page 3-62: Second paragraph. Change last sentence to read, "A Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts report indicates that the groundwater basin has a storage capacity of 68,000 acre-feet, although the Department of Public Works has been using the 58,000 acre-feet estimated by R.M. Bloy of USGS in 1967 (LACPW September 1992). R. Page 3-64: First paragraph. Delete paragraph and replace with the following: "Rates of decline ranging from 1 foot per year in nonpumping areas to 6 feet per year in existing pumping depressions have been noted. Drawdowns, averaging 31 feet per year in Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts wells, are not uncommon during periods of groundwater pumping. To counteract overdrafting, the Los Angeles County Waterworks District is implementing a conjunctive use policy which uses imported water to the extent possible, JOB/4010003.RTC Page 11 of 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- conserving groundwater for times when imported water is not available. This policy has contributed to increased water levels in certain locations. Still, region-wide groundwater levels are thought to have declined compared to historic levels in the Lancaster subbasin." Page 3-64: Third paragraph, first sentence. Change "Mohave Basin" to "Antelope Valley Basin". Revise last sentence to read: "According to a 1984 USGS study, groundwater quality throughout the Antelope Valley has remained unchanged. However, this situation may have changed with the increase in development and population. In addition, concentrations of nitrates exceed the MCL of public water supply criteria in the vicinity of Littlerock, possibly due to nitrogen fertilizers used on orchards. Potential sources of groundwater contamination include urban runoff, septic tanks, declining water tables, and the perched water conditions in Lancaster." S. Paze 3-65: First paragraph. Revise the last sentence to read: "In 1991, AVEK received 7,190 acre-feet from the SWP, as water allotments were decreased due to drought conditions. Another 15,725 acre-feet were purchased from local groundwater wells." T. Pane 4-56: Third paragraph. Add the following after the first sentence: "The Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts distributed water conservation kits, produced educational programs, and encouraged the use of drought resistant landscaping to help conserve water. The Waterworks Districts also instituted mandatory water conservation measures during the current drought cycle, the only mandatory restrictions imposed by an Antelope Valley water purveyor. As artificial water storage and recovery program is being pursued as well. U. Page 4-56: Fourth paragraph, third sentence. Change "Little Rock" to "Littlerock". V. Page 4-57: Third paragraph. Add the following sentence to the end of the paragraph: "The Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts plans to use 80 percent supplemental water sources as local facilities are expanded, thereby reducing reliance on local groundwater. Other water purveyors are expected to use a greater proportion of imported water as well, further reducing the future demand on the aquifer." W. Page 4-70: First paragraph after bulleted policies. Add the following sentence to the end of the paragraph: "Future development projects that would impact drainage flows to the California Aqueduct shall submit drainage plans for review and comment by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) during the environmental review process." X. Page 4-70: Add the following new paragraph between first and second paragraphs: "Any development that encroaches upon the DWR right-of-way at the California Aqueduct will be required to file an encroachment permit. All bridges within the Aqueduct right-of-way shall be designed as single-span bridges; no supports will be allowed within the Aqueduct. The City of Palmdale will be responsible for all future maintenance and repair of bridges once installation is complete. Bridges dedicated to Los Angeles County or Caltrans will be maintained and repaired by those agencies. Y. Page 4- 184: Add the following mitigation measure: "Individual projects may require an Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit from the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts. Project developers shall contact the Sanitation Districts' Industrial Waste section during the design phase of the development to determine whether a permit is necessary. Final plans must be submitted to the districts for review and approval prior to construction if a permit is required." Parse 12 of 15 10B14010003.RTC ---PAGE BREAK--- Z. Page 3-140: Fourth paragraph. Revise first sentence to read as follows: "AVTA is responsible for overseeing bus services, including the service provider, routes, schedules, and hours of operation." Page 3-142: Third paragraph. Delete first sentence and replace with the following: "Dial-a- Ride service is also provided by AVTA. Currently, the dial-a-ride services includes 13 vans in service and 2 vans in reserve." Page 3-145: First paragraph. Delete first sentence and replace with the following: "AVTA also provides two commuter bus lines between Palmdale and central Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley." AA. Page 3-273: Second paragraph. Add the following sentence to the end of the paragraph: "It should be noted that, because most of the planning area remains undeveloped, cultural resource surveys have not been conducted in most parts of the planning area." BB. Page H-i: Table H-i, last entry "single family houses." Revise to read "1913, 1920s and 1938." Add the following after "...and 9th Street East. 1913 Sadler Block house and 1920 house were owned by Sadler family members. CC. Page 3-187: Table 3-26, Avenue S Park. Add footnote to third column (undeveloped): "According to the Antelope Valley Archaeological Society, this property is part of the original Palmdale Cemetery property. There is the potential for burial sites located within and outside the fenced portion of this property. Prior to sits disturbance, additional surveys will be conducted. If burial sites are found, the city will follow the recommendations of the County Coroner." DD. Appendix A: Page A-5, Historic Resources. Add to Source column "Antelope Valley Archaeological Society, Inc." Appendix A: Page A-6, Archaeological Resources. Add to Source column "Antelope Valley Archaeological Society, Inc." EE. Page 3-89: Third paragraph. Add the following sentence to the end of the paragraph: "Mining and quarry operations have occurred in the Littlerock Wash fan for several decades; the natural habitat is some portions of the fan have been disturbed by these operations." FF. Page 4-52: Bottom of page. Add the following: The City of Palmdale will prepare an Air Quality Element and Action Plan that incorporates and ensures expeditious implementation of the transportation control measures identified in the 1991 AQMP, Appendix IV-E. With the approval by SCAG of certain measures within the Air Quality Element, the City of Palmdale will have the authority to review regionally significant general development projects for consistency with the AQMP. The Air Quality Element preparation and adoption process will include the following steps: 1. Adopt appropriate General Plan provisions that include objectives consistent with the AQMP and Air Quality Element Guidelines. JOB/4010003.RTC Page 13 of 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- 2. Agree to implement the appropriate local government measures from the AQMP identified in the Guidelines and AQMP. 3. Adopt changes, as necessary, to the General Plan Update to make the plan internally consistent with the Air Quality ElementlAction Plan. 4. Approve a schedule and assign staff responsibilities for implementing the adopted local air quality objectives consistent with the AQMP and the Guidelines. 5. Determine that the city has been making reasonable further progress toward implementing the local government measures in the AQMP as measured by the annual Reasonable Further Progress Reports." GG. Page 4-42: Third paragraph. Add the following to the beginning of the second sentence: "For example, based on total vehicle miles travelled of 20,317,195, buildout traffic generation..." HI!. Pa2e 3-204: Fourth paragraph. Revise the first sentence as follows: "The USAF Plant 42 has 13 wells to serve the buildings within its property." LI. Pare 4-55: Third paragraph. Add the following sentence at the end of the paragraph: "New sources of water, such as reclaimed water and water made available from other areas through transfers and other methods, will supplement the groundwater and water from the State Water Project." Page 4-56: Fifth paragraph. Revise second sentence to read: "Newly developed areas will obtain water from existing sources-the local aquifer and the State Water Project-as well as supplies made available by water conservation programs and the use of reclaimed water." Page 4-57: Third paragraph. Add the following sentence to the end of the paragraph: "The Los Angeles County Waterworks Districts plans to use 80 percent supplemental water sources are local facilities are expanded, thereby reducing reliance on local groundwater. Other water purveyors are expected to use a greater proportion of imported water as well, further reducing the future demand on the aquifer." JJ. Pare 3-132: Table 3-19. Revise Table 3-19 to include Bouquet Canyon Road as follows: Roadway: Bouquet Canyon Road FromrFo: Elizabeth Lake Road to Planning Area Boundary Striping/ Geometrics:2 LANES Facility Type: MINOR Capacity: 12,000 Volume: 1,800 V/C: 0.15 LOS: A IOB/4010003.RTC Page 14 of 15 ---PAGE BREAK--- Page 4-124: Table 4-13. Revise Table 4-13 to include Bouquet Canyon Road as follows: Roadway: Bouquet Canyon Road From/To: Elizabeth Lake Road to Planning Are Boundary Striping/ Geometrics:2 LANES Capacity: 12,000 Volume: 9,000 V/C: 0.75 LOS: C Page 15 of 15 JOB/4010003 .RTC ---PAGE BREAK--- EXHIBIT D ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Land Use Element The City will adopt and maintain a Land Use Map, Planning Dept. Implementation will Implementation which delineates the various land use begin immediately upon Measure A designations, in suitable locations protected adoption of the General from incompatible uses and hazards, to meet the Plan. anticipated development needs of the City while preservin9 natural resources and maintaining a high quality of life. Land Use Element The City will adopt an interim zoning map to Planning Dept. Adoption of an interim ill Implementation correspond to land use designations established zoning map w occur as Measure B by the Land Use Element, so as to bring zoning soon as possible after into compliance with the General Plan, within adoption of the General nine months after General Plan adoption. The Plan. Anticipated time interim zonin9 map will show parcel specific frame for action is six zone designations consistent with the Land Use to nine months. Map. Land Use Element The City will formulate and adopt by ordinance a Planning Dept. Adoption of an revised Implementation comprehensive Development Code, containing development code will Measure C standards for all aspects of land development occur as soon as and land use including site design, use possible after adoption compatibility, access, parking and circulation, of the General Plan. lot sizes and dimensions and other development Anticipated time frame t ti i t f regulations designed to ensure public health, wo or ac on s one o safety and welfare. The Development Code will years. establish zone districts that are consistent with land use designations in the General Plan Land Use Element. In addition, the Code will address the following specific development issues which have been addressed in various General Plan policies and objectives: 1. Signs 2. Hillside development 3. Dependent housing units 4. Accessory buildings in residential zones 5. Condominium conversions 6. Mobilehome park conversions 7. Rural improvement standards (including street improvements and street lighting) 8. Subdivisions 9. Zoning for mineral resource extraction areas 10. Minimum residential standards 11. Development standards for Mixed Use-Transitional areas 12. Development standards for the Downtown Overlay District ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE In conjunction with the comprehensive Development Code, the City will revise and update its zone districts and adopt a permanent Zoning Map superseding the interim zoning map referenced above. Land Use Element To establish a desired development pattern, Planning Dept. A Downtown Overlay ill b laced Di t i t Implementation enhance economic viability and create a sense of w e p s r c d th i t i b Measure D place, the City will establish a Downtown i i m an n er on o s as final zonin ma ng Map. Th s Overlay District on the Zon g p S d district will establish development standards ee they are adopte . unique to the downtown area to facilitate discussion above for ongoing occupancy, re-use of existin9 anticipated time frames. structures, and new development consistent with existing development patterns. Land Use Element 1. The City will review and update its Planning Dept. Implementation is on- Implementation development review process pursuant to h going; action is the tri ered b Measure E at changes to State law, to ensure t gg y projects conform to applicable development development review regulations. process. 2. The City will implement a review process which expedites processing time to the extent practicable. 3. The City will evaluate land use impacts of proposed development in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Land Use Element Areas designated Special Development (SD) on the Planning Dept. Comprehensive master Implementation Land Use Map will re9uire comprehensive master infrastructure planning Measure G infrastructure planning for the affected area within the SD areas prior to allowing extension of urban services or will be driven by the urban type development. Additionally, all demand for development future 8eveloment within these areas must within those areas. comply with site specific policies to ensure Planning will occur that unique development constraints of a given before development is area are fully considered. Site specific approved. policies have also been established for several areas containin. constraints that warrant specific direction for future development. These areas are identified by an asterisk on the ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Land Use Map and are referred to as Special Policy Areas. The affected Special Development and Special Policy Areas are generally described as follows: 1. Vincent Hills Special Development Area 2. Bushnell Special Development Area ial Development Area 3. Santa Fe Hills Spec 4. Southwest Special Development Planning Area 5. Area generally located between Lake Palmdale and the Antelope Valley Freeway* 6. Business Park area generally located north of Avenue S and east of the Antelope Valley Freeway* 7. Area generally located east of Sierra Highway at the intersection of Pearbiossom Highway* *Special Policy Area Land Use Element 1. The City will implement systematic Planning Dept. Implementation is on- Implementation notification and consultation procedures l d ff d b i i going through public r d r ti Measure H an use es a ecte y with outside ent t ce p oce u es. no decisions within the City, including Review of adjacent f l adjacent jurisdictions and town councils. or comat- deve opment ibility with MOUs will 2. In recognition of the rural lifestyles occur as development is present within portions of the planning i proposed, prior to l nto Memorandums area, the City has entered any approva . of Understanding with homeowners groups in MOU' h C t ' s state t e i y s these areas. These acknowledgement of the intent of these areas to remain rural in nature. The City will review development proposals adjacent to or within these areas for compatibility and/or consistency with provisions of these agreements, and consider input from the affected residents in making land use decisions. Land Use Element The City will evaluate fiscal, infrastructural i Planning Dept. Implementation is on- thr h r ntl Implementation ons to and land use impacts of proposed annexat oug ece y going Measure I the City, as well as the desires of inhabitants adopted annexation within these areas, and consider these issues in policies. making decisions on future annexations. ---PAGE BREAK--- MONITORING FOR IRE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Land Use Element The City will promote the development of mixed Planning Dept. Implementation is on- Implementation M use ro)ects to place complimentary uses in i h i i i going through the land l i easure 3 proxim ty to eac other, in order to m n m ze use p ann ng process. tries and resulting impacts to air quality. Promotion of a Southeast Additionally, the City will work with Desert Air Basin plan is jurisdictions within the high desert region as on-going through partic- well as state representatives to promote ipation in the local air development and adoption of a separate air quality task force and quality management plan for the Southeast Desert continued dialogue with Air Basin portion of the South Coast Air Quality the South Coast Air Management District. Quality Management District. Land Use Element 1. The City will compile and maintain a Planning Dept. Creation of these data- Implementation database of demographic and eqonomic Economic Development bases, plans, districts, Measure L information to assist businesses and Public Works Dept. and programs will occur perspective businesses in evaluating as soon as feasible demographic and marketing trends. after adoption of the General Plan. 2. The City will develop an environmental data base to minimize need for the costly site specific environmental studies. 3. The City will develop a municipal facilities master elan which accommodates centralized processing of development permits. This centralization will ensure maximum effectiveness, efficiency and consistency in development processing for homeowners, developers, and members of the business community. 4. The City will assist in the establishment of special financing districts and/or construct infrastructure through reimbursement programs in an effort to promote development of new commercial and industrial development, as deemed appropriate by the City Council. 5. The City will develop and make use of incentive programs designed to promote industrial development in the Palmdale area. This effort includes establishment of a Foreign Trade Zone, Enterprise Zone, and similar programs designed to stimulate economic activity. ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Land Use Element The City will use redevelopment as a tool for Economic Development Implementation is on- Implementation establishing and maintaining desired going; the City's Measure M developments. The City of Palmdale has Redevelopment Agency is established a Community Redevelopment Agency actively working to (CRA) and designated four project areas in accord n with S ti 33000 t f th retain existing local a ce ec on e seq o e business as well as to Health and Safety Code of the State of promote the development California. Exhibit LU-i shows the designated of new businesses. project areas. This designation gives the City additional funding options to finance improvements necessary to correct physical i i fl h constra nts ( e. ood azards) and infrastructure deficiencies in support of the development planned for the project areas. Land Use Element The City will review the Land Use Element every Planning Dept. Implementation will Implementation five to seven years to determine if land d i i occur as specified. Measure N use es gnat ons, goals, policies, objectives and implementation measures reflect the changing needs and desires of the community. Subsequent amendments to the Element may be undertaken as a result. ---PAGE BREAK--- MITT MONITORING FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Cl.1 Adopt and implement a street and highway plan Planning Dept./ Implementation will designed to meet existing and future circulation Traffic Engineer occur immediately with needs. adoption of the General Plan. Cl.1.1 Designate roadways within the Planning Area as Engineering Dept./ Implementation will local, collector, secondary arterial, major Traffic Engineer occur immediately with arterial and re9ional arterial streets, as shown adoption of the General on the Circulation Plan Map, and adopt standards Plan. for right-of-way and desi9n of these streets which will ensure appropriate capacity and performance of each roadway. Cl.l.2 Cooperate with Caltrans and other affected Planning Dept/ Adopt standards prior to jurisdictions to establish and adopt standards Traffic Engineer construction of express- for intra-regional expressways. ways. C1.l.3 Develop and maintain a computer traffic model Traffic Engineer Development of the model based upon the designated network, and assess has occurred. Continued existing and projected levels of service on maintenance and updating streets within the network in making land use of the model will occur decisions and formulating the Land Use Plan. at regular intervals. Cl.l.4 Periodically monitor levels of service within Traffic Engineer Periodic monitoring of the existing street network to identify traffic volumes occurs deficient street segments and intersections, and as needed. Maintenance develop programs to improve service levels where and/or improvement of needed. levels of service will occur through the CIP. Cl.1.5 Improve the existing street network based upon Public Works Dept. Improvements will occur the adopted Circulation Plan, through as determined by the implementation of the Capital Improvement CIP or conditions of Program and through requirements placed upon new approval. Availability development approvals, of funding will dictate timing of improvements. Cl. 1.6 Design the Circulation Plan Map so as to protect Planning Dept. The Circulation Plan existing neighborhoods and/or significant will be implemented environmental resources, wherever feasible. with adoption of the l Plan. Genera ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Cl.1.7 Ensure that right-of-way is reserved wherever i Plannin9 Dept./ D t i Implementation is on- ill i ht f on possible to implement the adopted Circulat ep . Eng neering -way w going; r g -o be reserved throu h the Plan. g development review process. Cl.1.8 Evaluate all land use decisions to ensure Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the consistency with the Circulation Plan. development review process. Cl.l.9 Ensure that the cumulative and regional impacts Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the of new development on the circulation system are development review and mitigated to the extent feasible, concurrent CEQA processes. with development. Concurrent shall mean that required facilities are installed as needed during various stages of development. C1.2 Maintain and expand the arterial and regional Public Works Dept. Implementation will roadway system to serve existing and future occur immediately with circulation needs. adoption of the General Plan. C1.2.l Provide adequate system capacit and efficiency i Traffic Engineer Implement throu9h the ment review d l ons at through exclusive turn lane addit eve op arterial intersections and other significant process. locations. C1.2.2 Assure safe and efficient arterial operations Traffic Engineer/ Implement through the through careful control of access, signal Engineering Dept./ development review i f d spacing, median placement, and overall street Public Works Dept. rev ew o process an and development design. street improvement plans. C1.23 Protect and increase the capacity of arterial Planning Dept./ Implementation of these streets through the following measures: Traffic Engineer measures will begin immediately with G l a. No new direct residential driveway enera adoption of the access will be permitted onto regional, Plan. Prior to review l major and secondary arterials or highways, approva , except where no other feasible access is development applications for consistenc available, y. ---PAGE BREAK--- THE LIiL OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGAFION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED b. For residential development, full intersections will generally be permitted at l th i no ess an one-quarter m le spacing along t i l Wh i i ar er a streets. ere t s determined by the City Traffic Engineer that community-wide circulation will not be negatively impacted, full intersections (non-signalized) may be permitted at approximately one-eighth mile spacing. c. Except as specified in Policy Cl.2.3.b, right turn only access will typically be permitted at approximately one-eighth mile i i d i l d l spac ng n resi ent a eve opments, unless no other feasible access is available. Additional right-of-way may be required on arterials for right turn lanes onto local and collector streets, and significant private streets or driveways. d. On-street parking will be prohibited on arterial roadways, unless otherwise approved by the City Traffic Engineer. e. New arterial streets, and extensions of existing arterial streets, will be designed so as to eliminate jogs and discontinuities and facilitate regional traffic flow. f. All secondary, major and regional arterials should be constructed with medians. Cl..2.4 Promote development of regional arterial links Public Works, Dept. Coordination with the within the community where needed to serve railroads and identif 1- existing and future needs, including but not cation of funding limited to the following: is needed for implemen- tation of item a. a. Promote development of 9rade separations at railroad tracks, in particular, at Coordination with Palmdale Boulevard. Caltrans and identif i - cation of funding b. Coordinate with Caltrans and other is needed for implemen- affected agencies to expedite rerouting of tation of item b. Highway 138 and widening of State Route 14. ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Cl.3 Establish a system of local and collector Planning Dept./ Implement throu9h the streets which serve residential neighborhoods Traffic Engineer development review while protecting them from intrusion of through process. traffic flow. Cl.3.l Promote development of local street patterns Planning Dept./ Implement throu9h the which create and unify neighborhoods, rather Traffic Engineer development review than divide them, through the following means: process and/or any area or specific planning a. Local street patterns should provide effort. access between subdivisions within a neighborhood, with the exception of through traffic which should be directed onto major and secondary arteriala. b. The local street system should be logical and understandable for the user. Creation of circuitous and confusing travel paths between internal neighborhood areas and adjacent arterials should be avoided. c. The street system should be desi9ned to avoid creating local streets which will ultimately function as collectors. A local street may be determined to function as a collector street when it is or will be used to collect traffic from local streets and convey it to an arterial street. This function of collecting traffic may be due to the street's length, alignment, design or the lack of other streets which may be used to convey traffic to nearby arterials. In general, local streets will be discouraged from extendin9 more than one-half mile so as to avoid serving this function. d. Direct residential driveway access onto collectors, or onto local streets which function as collectors, is discouraged. e. Local street design should provide efficient connection to the arterial highway system while discoura9ing excessive speeds and volumes within neighborhoods. ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE f. Maximum cul-de-sac length should be 700 feet. "Dog-leg" cul-de-sacs with one or more turns between the bulb and the outlet should be avoided. g. To discourage excessive speed and through traffic, Street width should not exceed that required for the level of use; right-of-way and pavement widths on local streets may be reduced when it can be demonstrated that such reduction will not negatively impact internal and external circulation. Where such reductions are proposed, the City traffic engineer shall make appropriate recommendations to the Planning Commission during review of the tentative map. Cl.4 Adopt policies and standards for street design City Engineer Existing engineering and construction which promote safety, design standards include convenience and efficiency. standards for Street design and construction. Cl.4.l Strive to maintain a Level of Service (LOS) C or Traffic Engineer Implement throu9h the better to the extent practical; in some development review circumstances, a LOS D may be acceptable for a process; monitor through short duration during peak periods, periodic traffic counts. Cl.4.2 Ensure that approvals of new development are Planning Dept./ Implement throu9h the correlated with any roadway improvements that Traffic Engineer development review would be necessary to maintain the existing process. level of service, or LOS C, whichever is less, and other performance characteristics applicable to the affected roadways. Development shall not be authorized until measures are in place to construct any necessary improvements; these measures may include, but not be limited to, payment of traffic impact fees or construction of street improvements as required in the conditions of approval. -10- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF FALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Cl.4.3 Establish street design standards which provide Traffic Engineer Street cross-sections the capacities that are needed to adequately have been identified in serve the projected travel demand. the General Plan; imple- mentation of these cross-sections will occur with adoption of the General Plan. Cl.4.4 Promote safe circulation and emergency access, Planning Dept./ Implement throu9h the through the following means: Traffic Engineer development review process. a. Require a minimum 26-foot wide paved access from an improved public street to all developments. Individual single family residences (not associated with a tract map) are excluded from this requirement except as deemed necessary by the Los Angeles County Fire Protection District. Access roads shall be increased to 28 feet in width within 200 feet of an intersection with a public Street. b. Two points of ingress and egress should be provided to every subdivision or phase thereof. Exceptions may be granted for small subdivisions where physical constraints make it difficult or impossible to provide a second access point. c. Medians constructed in arterial streets should be provided with decorative paved crossover points for emergency vehicles, where deemed necessary by the Fire Department. d. Street naming and numbering should consider ease of use for dispatch of emergency services. e. The street system should function safel and effectively, without the subsequent nee for excessive traffic control devices. -11- ---PAGE BREAK--- ttITIGATION MONITORING 11 FOR TEE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE C1.4.5 Locate and design intersections so as to promote Traffic Engineer Implement throu9h the safe and efficient circulation, through the development review following means: process. a. Local to local street intersections should be spaced at least 150 feet apart (from centerline to centerline). b. Intersections, includint knuckles, should generall' be perpendicular. Public streets should intersect at a 90 degree angle plus or minus five degrees. Knuckles should be constructed at a 90 degree angle, plus or minus 10 degrees. c. Excessive grade variations, curves or other features which impair sight distance t i t i h a n ersect ons s all be avoided. d. Local to collector street intersections should be spaced no less than 300 feet apart, where necessary to provide adequate queuing room for left turn movements onto the collector street. Where left turn movements onto the collector street are not needed, this spacing requirement may be reduced to 150 feet. e. On local to local intersections, four-way intersections should be avoided. f. For intersections of collector or larger streets, four-way intersections are preferred over offset or intersections. C1.4.6 Adopt standards for use of private streets, Traffic Engineer Amend the engineering where appropriate; private streets, other than design standards and/or driveways and alleyways typically associated withmulti-familr develo ment h ld b zoning code to include p , s ou e private Street constructed to City standards for public standards. rights-of-way, and should be used only for gated communities. C1.5 Identify and mitigate existing areas of Planning Dept./ Implement throu9h the deficiency within the street system in the Traffic Engineer development review Planning Area. process/CMP compliance. -12- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Cl5.1 Develop parking and traffic plans for those Planning Dept./ Prepare plans as neighborhoods which are adversely impacted by Traffic Engineer impacted neighborhoods parking and traffic. are identified. Cl.5.2 Periodically monitor levels of service, traffic Traffic Engineer/ Monitoring of roadways accident patterns, and physical conditions of Public Works Dept. occurs on a regular the existing street system, and upgrade roadways basis. Improvements as needed through the Capital Improvement will be prioritized Program. through the CI? process. Cl.6 Ensure that the City street system is adequately Public Works Dept. Street maintenance is maintained, to promote safet' and increase the on-going. useful life of these facilities. C1.6.1 Pro-actively maintain all City streets; Public Works Dept. Street maintenance is maintenance levels and schedules should consider on-going; review long-term costs of street maintenance, maintenance schedules to ensure efficiency. Cl.6.2 Require assurance of long-term maintenance for Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the all private streets constructed within the City. Traffic Engineer development review process. C1.7 Ensure adequate access within the Planning Area Traffic Engineer Truck routes have been for trucks, while protecting incompatible uses established; review from through truck traffic. periodically to verify appropriateness. Cl.7.l Review periodically, and update as necessary, Traffic Engineer Truck routes have been City Code provisions concerning truck routes and established; review enforcement. periodically to verify appropriateness. Cl.7.2 To the extent feasible, route through truck Traffic Engineer Truck routes have been traffic around existing and future residential established; use the neighborhoods. development review process to ensure compliance. -13- ---PAGE BREAK--- uLL.-t iX14.L... GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Cl.7.3 Designate truck routes which w.ll serye Traffic Engineer Truck routes have been commercial/industrial, areas while minimizing established; use the adverse impacts of heavy truck traffic on these development review uses. process to ensure compliance. Cl.8 Participate in multi-jurisdictional efforts to Planning Dept.! Continue coordination upgrade and expand the regional road network. Traffic Engineer with Caltrans and others on a regular basis. Cl.8.l Cooperate with other agencies and jurisdictions, Planning Dept.! Continue coordination including Caltrans, Los Angeles County, and Traffic Engineer with Caltrans, L.A.Co., adjacent cities, to evaluate and propose Santa Clarita, and solutions to regional transportation issues Lancaster as necessary. relating to the City of Palmdale. Cl.8.2 Coordinate with other jurisdictions to integrate Planning Dept./ Continue coordination circulation networks. Traffic Engineer with Caltrans, L.A.Co., and Lancaster. Cl.8.3 Support local, reqional, state and federal Planning Dept.! Coordination with Cal- agencies in identifying and implementin9 funding Traffic Engineer trans is on-going; alternatives for the City's transportation initiate coordination systems. with other entities as needed. C2.l Encourage development and implementation of a Planning Dept.! Adopt ordinances to en- variety of measures to reduce trips and vehicle ic Engineer! courage desired miles travelled by existing and future residents c Works Dept. reductions. Time frames and workers within the Planning Area. are established by MP, AQMD, SCAG. C2.l.l Require Transportation Demand Management T Planning Dept. Require through the from major employers, as defined by the ' development review Quality Management District and the Cor on process; for existin9 Management Plan, employers, adopt ordin- ances to achieve desired compliance. C2.l.2 Promote the use at ridesharing by providing safe Public Works Dept./ Continue constructing and convenient park-and-ride facilities, Planning Dept. park and ride facilities accessible to mass transit facilities where to serve local commuters available, and by providing public information as needed. programs for commuters. -14- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE C2.1.3 Require residential developments to contribute Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the towards City programs to reduce vehicle trips, development review process. C2 l 4 Provide incentives for trip reduction measures. Planning Dept. Include in the revised . . development code. C2 l 5 Ensure compliance with the County's Congestion Traffic Engineer/ Adopt necessary measures . . Management Plan. Planning Dept.! to comely with the CMP Public Works Dept. provisions. Time frames established by CMP. C2.l.6 Promote alternative means of trip rduction, Planning Dept. Include in the revised ment code and/or develo including telecommuting. p TDM ordinance. C2.2 Increase the public transit opportunities t d i i Public Works Dept./ Dept Plannin Coordinate with AVTA to expand existing services o n or er dents available to Palmdale res . g reduce traffic impacts on streets and highways and increase coverage and provide travel alternatives, of the area. C2.2.l Promote public transit operations within the Public Works Dept.! D t l i Coordinate with AVTA to services and existin ex Planning Area, and work with transit operators i i ep . P ann ng g p and increase coverage ce ces, serv to coordinate schedules, serv f the area routes and fares. . o C2 2 2 Promote the use of public transit by Public Works Dept./ Acquire additional right . . facilitating dedication of access routes and Planning Dept. of way for bus turn-outs construction of safe and convenient stops with through the development sufficient parking. review process. C2 2 3 Encourage location of bikeways and storage areas Planning Dept. Require through the . . which are integrated with public transit development review rocess on appropriate facilities, p projects. C2 2 4 Encourage development of regional rail transit Planning Dept.! Continue coordination . . serving the Palmdale area. Public Works Dept. with LACTC, Metro project, and others. -15-- ---PAGE BREAK--- T! ot MONITORIN( FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE C2.2.5 Require provision of bus turnouts for new Planning Dept./ Acquire additional right development, where deemed to be appropriate in Traffic Engineer/ of way for bus turn-outs consultation with the transit authority. Public Works Dept. through the development review process. C2.2.6 Establish a regional transportation center Planning Dept. Use downtown planning within the City, conveniently located to efforts to identify maximize access to downtown and major commercial transportation center centers, which will accommodate a variety of location. Coordinate public transportation uses including rail, bus, with appropriate and shuttle service, agencies for funding. C3.l Minimize the need for short service-oriented Planning Dept. The Land Use Plan has vehicle trips through land use anç design contemplated this need; strategies. implement with the adoption of the General Plan. C3.1.l Schools, parks and nei9hborhood commercial uses Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the should be located within convenient walking development review distance to residential developments, process. C3.l.2 Land uses should be arranged in a manner which Planning Dept. The Land Use Plan has increases the opportunity to utilize alternate contemplated this need; forms of transportation, such as transit implement with the systems, bikeways and pedestrian walkways. adoption of the General Plan. C3.l.3 Promote bicycle accessibility to all public Planning Dept. Implement through bike- facilities, includin9 parks, schools, and way plan and the centers of civic activity, to include secure development review bicycle storage areas. process. C3.l.4 Require residential subdivision designs to Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the accommodate convenient pedestrian and bicycle b th i development review access, o on- and off-s te. process. C3.l.5 Adopt and implement a bikeway plan as a Planning Dept. Implement with adoption component of the Parks and Recreation Element, of the Parks and Recreation element. -16- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE C4.l Promote the use of rail service to support Planning Dept. Coordinate with SPRR to industry in the City, ensure continued rail service. C4.1.l Designate industrial land uses in areas with Planning Dept. Shown on the Land Use potential for freight rail service. Map. C4.l.2 Work with the Southern Pacific Transportation Planning Dept./ Coordinate with SPRR to Company to increase surface street access across Traffic Engineer identify surface street the railroad tracks while minimizing impacts on access points. rail service. C4.2 Encourage extension of passenger rail service to Planning Dept. Coordinate with LACTC to the City of Palmdale. identify possible rail projects. C4.2.1 Support re9ional efforts to connect Palmdale Planning Dept. Coordinate with trans- Regional Airport to Los Angeles International portation agencies to Airport with a high-speed rail line. express support for rail projects. C4.2.2 Support regional efforts to provide commuter Planning Dept. Coordinate with trans- rail service from Palmdale to the Los Angeles portation agencies to basin. express support for rail projects. C5.l Protect opportunities for full utilization and Planning Dept. Implement JLUC policies. expansion of Air Force Plant 42. C5.1.1 Adopt land use designations and policies which Planning Dept. Immediate implementation minimize encroachment of incompatible uses into with adoption of the space utilized by air operations. General Plan. C5.l.2 Implement noise and safety policies as developed Planning Dept. Immediate implementation by the Joint Land Use Committee and as with adoption of the incorporated into various elements of this General Plan. General Plan. -17- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE C5.l.3 Coordinate development policies and decisions Planning Dept. Implement throur$i the with Air Force Plant 42 representatives, development review process. C5.2 Promote development of Palmdale Regional Airport. Planning Dept.! Coordinate with City of Economic Development L.A. to encourage devel- oment of the regional airport. C5.21 Promote economic development of land surrounding Planning Dept./ Implement through Enter- the airport for large-scale commercial uses, so Economic Development prise zone process and as to support a market demand for airport redevelopment efforts. services. C5.2.2 Restrict encroachment of incompatible uses into Planning Dept. Implement JLUC policies. land affected by future airport operations. C5.2.3 Promote and support regional transportation Planning Dept. Coordinate with Caltrans planning for routes serving the airport f ili i i to plan and construct ac ty, nclud ng State Routes 14 and 138. airport access routes. Circulation The City will construct or require construction Planning Dept. Implement through CIP Element of roads and transportation facilities in and development review Implementation conformance with the Roadway Network, presented process. Measure A in Exhibit C-i. The City will regularly update the R d N t k d di i oa way e wor an coor nate t with the Land Use Plan, to ensure provision of transportation facilities adequate to support permitted land uses throughout the Planning Area. Circulation The City's traffic consultants prepared a Traffic Engineer Model is in place; up- Element computer model of the City's street and highway date as necessary to Implementation network in order to evaluate adequacy of the keep data current. Measure B Circulation Plan to accommodate build-out of the Land Use Plan. The City will maintain this model to reflect changing conditions, as road improvements are constructed and new development k l ta es p ace. The model will be used to evaluate future proposed changes to the Land Use Element of the General Plan. -18- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PIJII4 MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Circulation The City's adopted standards for typical street Traffic Engineer Implement standards Element sections are established as shown on Exhibit C-2 through the development Implementation and Table C-i. Standards specified herein shall i h i i i review process; update i Measure C mum requ rements; w ere ex st ng streets be max d l l d dh r ght-of-way cross- and approved eve opment prec u e a erence to sections as necessary. these standards, the City will give consideration to modifications to reflect standards under which previous development was approved. Standards will be developed for intersection enhancement where needed. The cross-sections listed on Table C-i shall be reviewed and updated as needed by the City Public Works Department. Circulation Through the Land Use Element, the City will Planning Dept. Immediate implementation Element i establish uses which maximize opportunities for i f il i d f ili i with adoption of the Implementat on expans on o ra , a r an transit ac t es, General Plan. Measure D and minimize land use conflicts with these facilities. The Land Use Plan also establishes strategies to reduce vehicle trips through placement of land uses. Circulation Through its review of development proposals, the Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Element City will require right-of-way dedications and development review Implementation street improvements (including but not limited process. Measure E to widening, paving, turn lanes, intersection improvements and traffic control devices) as conditions of approval, based upon needs generated by the development. Circulation The City will conduct environmental review of Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Element new development proposals and City-initiated development review/CEQA Implementation capital improvements, to ensure that traffic and processes. Measure F transportation-related impacts are miti9ated to a level of insignificance wherever feasible. Circulation The City will require developers to comply with Traffic Engineer! Adopt appropriate Element the Congestion Management Plan (CMP) adopted by Planning Dept. ordinances once MP is Implementation Los Angeles County Transportation Commission. ill i h l d i i i adopted, in accordance i f Measure G ty w comply w t goa s, d ves an The C rect i d h C P with the t me rames i P h i programs conta ne in t e M as they relate to n t e CM . specif ed City responsibilities. -19- ---PAGE BREAK--- TBI. CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN )4ITIGAION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Circulation Through the Land Use Plan and development review Traffic Engineer/ Roadways are identified Element process, the City will reserve or limit uses Planning Dept. on the Circulation Plan, Implementation within future right-of-way needed for roadways. implement through the Measure H development review process and the CIP. Circulation 1. The City will annually prepare and implement Public Works Dept. On-going implementation Element a five-year Capital Improvement Program of CIP, signalization Implementation addressing road improvement projects. requirements, and moni- Measure I toring of levels of 2. The City will continue to pursue a service. pro-active program of signalization and intersection improvements. 3. The Public Works Department will regularly monitor service levels througiout the City, in order to identify deficiencies in service and program improvement schedules. Circulation The City will implement Transportation System Public Works Dept.! Implement through Element Management techniques to increase capacity of Traffic Engineer/ adoption of appropriate Implementation M J the existing road system, including but not li it d t i l di i Planning Dept. ordinances, pursuant to easure m e o 8 gna coor nat on, access controls, G4P, AQMP, RMP, etc. and parking restrictions. Circulation Consistent with the CMP and the Air Quality Public Works Dept./ Implement through Element Management Plan, the City will adopt and Traffic Engineer/ adoption of appropriate Implementation K M implement a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) di hi h i i Planning Dept. ordinances, pursuant to easure or nance w c ncudes but s not limited CMP, AQMP, RMP, etc., to the following measures: including the measures specified. 1. Support a computerized rideshare service to facilitate creation of carpools between persons living and working in the same vicinities. 2. Provide information to businesses on how to establish carpool and vanpool programs. 3. Continue to operate the City's Park-and-Ride facility at Highway 14 and Avenue S, and participate in construction and operation of an additional facility at Sierra Highway and Highway 14. -20- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE 4. Prepare a long-range park-and-ride elan for future facilities within the City1 including methods of financing these facilities. Circulation The City will continue to participate in the Public Works Dept.! Implement through Element Antelope Valley Transit Authority to promote Traffic Engineer! continued cooperation Implementation implementation of the Antelope Valley Transit Planning Dept. with AVTA. Measure L Needs Plan, and other plans and programs as developed in the future. Circulation The City will explore opportunities for linking Public Works Dept./ Cooperate with rJACTC, Element commuter bus service from Palmdale to rail Traffic Engineer private transit Implementation transit services in Santa Clarita, to convey operators, AVTA, etc. Measure M commuters to the Los Angeles basin., Circulation The City will continue to coordinate with school Public Works Dept./ Coordinate with school Element districts within the Planning Area to provide i Traffic Engineer districts as needed. Implementation ces near traffic safety controls and dev Measure N schools. The City will also work with the districts to plan for adequate pick-up and drop-off areas near schools for parents and buses. Circulation The City will evaluate the City Code Public Works Dept./ Truck routes have been Element periodically to ensure its adequacy in Traffic Engineer established; review Implementation addressing truck route issues. periodically to verify Measure 0 appropriateness. Circulation The City will enhance street capacity by Public Works Dept./ Develop a downtown plan Element addressing parking needs as follows: Traffic Engineer in con]uction with the Implementation Civic Center project. Measure P 1. Develop a downtown parking plan as part of its downtown revitalization effort. Routinely examine on- street parkin9 and limit 2. Prohibit parking on all arterial streets. where appropriate through appropriate 3. Periodically reevaluate off-street parkin9 action. requirements to ensure that adecuate parking is provided for businesses within Palmdale. Review off-street park- ing standards as needed. -21- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAf ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Circulation The City will adopt and implement a Bikeway Plan Public Works Dept./ Adopt a Parks and Element to encourage non-vehicular travel throughout the Traffic Engineer/ Recreation element. Implementation Planning Area. Planning Dept. Implement plan through Measure Q the development review process. Circulation The City will pursue all feasible funding Public Works Dept./ Review traffic impact Element sources to support improvements to the Economic Development on a regular basis to Implementation Circulation System, including traffic impact ensure that fees are Measure R fees, state and federal funding ro?rams, and adequate; continue public financing methods. The City a Traffic coordination with other Imact Fee Assessment and Master Traffic Level agencies to identify all Maintenance Plan will be implemented, and available funding periodically evaluated and updated, to support sources. collection and expenditures of developer fees. Circulation The City will continue to cooperate with other Planning Dept./ Continue coordination Element jurisdictions to develop and implement solutions Public Works Dept./ with Caltrans and other Implementation to regional transportation needs. Traffic Engineer agencies, as needed. Measure S -22- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAtION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER1.1.1 Utilize a variety of features, including entry Planning Dept. Implement throuth the points to the City, landscaped arterial development review roadways, bikeways, equestrian paths, hiking process, and/or acquire trails, and park sites, to create an open space other areas as needed. network. ER1.l.2 Provide for a network of open space by linking Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the such areas wherever possible. development review process. ER1.1.4 Develop appropriate standards for development Planning Dept. Develop standards for clustering and density transfer, in order to inclusion in the revised maintain areas of scenic open space throughout comprehensive develop- the Planning Area. ment code. ER1.1.5 Utilize the City's discretionary land use Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the approval process to locate and retain areas for development review use as open space through dedication or other process. legal means. Develop criteria and guidelines to identify areas that should be so protected. ER2.1.l The following broadly defined areas will be Planning Dept. Immediate implementation designated as a Significant Ecological Area G l Pl L d U M SEA th l with adoption of the G ner l Pl n re i w enera an an se ap: ( ) over ay on e e a a ; v e Big Rock Wash, Little Rock Wash, Ritter Ridge, h ld i i i l compliance through the d l t i surveys s ou and Portal R dge. B olog ca be eve opmen rev ew performed to determine the nature and extent of process. their ecological significance prior to any approval of new developments within the overlay area. Any development permitted in these areas must consider significant environmental resources and preserve environmental resources to the extent feasible. ER2.l.2 Promote only compatible, and where appropriate, Planning Dept. Immediate implementation passive recreational uses in natural areas l i ll i i i i with adoption of the G l Pl i ned to be eco og ca y s gn f cant determ enera an; rev ew consistent with the particular needs and compliance through the characteristics of each SEA, as determined by development review approved field observation reports. process. -23- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACI REP(JRT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAZ ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER2.l.3 Solicit and utilize all available sources of Planning Dept. Coordinate with CA Fish local, regional, state and federal funds to and Game and U.S. Fish acquire significant wetland areas, in order to and Wildlife Service to minimize the disturbance and prevent damage from identify funding sources erosion, turbidity, siltation, a loss of and prioritize areas for wildlife and vegetation, or the destruction of acquisition. the natural habitat. ER2.l.4 Preserve natural drainage courses and riparian Planning Dept. Implement through the areas where significant concentrations of development review ecological resources exist. process and/or as sites can be acquired. ER2.1.5 Preserve and maintain significant Joshua tree Planning Dept. Implementation is on- woodlands and other significant habitat areas. going; continue as Early in the review of development roects, provided in existing the feasibility of perserving any significant t i i ordinance. vege at on present on-s te should be examined. ER4.l.l Incorporate the use of flood control measures Public Works Dept. Implement through the which maximize groundwater recharge and the use master Drainage Plan; of floodways as native habitat. construct facilities as development occurs. ER4.l.2 Restrict building coverage and total impervious Planning Dept. Incorporate maximum lot area in the vicinity of natural recharge areas. coverage provisions in development code. ER4.l.3 Protect from pollutants or other materials which Planning Dept. Implement through the might degrade groundwater supplies, and enhance development review natural recharge areas such as the Little Rock process and reclamation and Big Rock Washes, and Amargosa and Anaverde plan review. Creeks, and ensure that no mineral resources recovery activities extend below the groundwater table. -24- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAIION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER4.l.4 Require that all new commercial, industrial and Planning Dept. Implement throwjh the residential development with densities of one development review unit per acre or less connect to a sanitary process. sewer system prior to occupancy unless otherwise b h i approved y t e C ty. ER4.l,5 Cooperate with Los Angeles County Health Public Works Dept. Implement throu9h the Department and the Regional Water Quality development review Control Board in monitoring industrial and process. commercial uses utilizing hazardous or potentially polluting materials and fluids, to prevent their discharge into the groundwater aquifer. ER4.2 Minimize the impacts of urban development on Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the groundwater supplies, development review process. ER4.2.l Promote water conserving landscape techniques, Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the through the use of native and drought tolerant development review plant species and landscape design standards. process and xeriscape ordinance. ER4.2.2 Utilize native plants or drought resistant Engineering Dept. Implement through planting materials and drip irrigation systems adoption of a xeriscape where feasible within the Landscape Assessment ordinance. District areas. ER4.2.3 Require the use of water conserving appliances i ll l bi fi i d Building and Safety D Revise the City's b ildi d i n a new construct p um ng xtures on. an ept. u ng co e to requ re implementation. ER4.2.4 Coordiàate with local water agencies to monitor Planning Dept. Implement through coop- ground water levels, State water allocations and eration in regional development approvals, to assure that groundwater studies, development does not outpace long-term water such as U.S.G.S study. availability. -25- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER5.1 Minimize local air pollution caused by vehicles. Planning Dept. Adopt appropriate air quality ordinances. ER5.l.l Reduce work-related trips through such means as ti l k h l Planning Dept. Implement throu9h promo ng a ternate wor sc edu es, appropriate ordinances telecommuting, the use of alternative modes of and adoption of an air transportation to the workplace and the creation quality element. of additional park and ride facilities. ER5.l.2 Reduce vehicle non-work trips throu9h merchant Planning Dept. Implement throu9h transportation incentives and transit system i t appropriate ordinances i mprovemen s, and adopt on of an air quality element. ER5.l.3 Reduce vehicle emissions through maintaining and Planning Dept. Implement throu9h improvin9 traffic flow as contained in the Ci l t El appropriate ordinances rcu a ion ement. and adoption of an air quality element. ER5.l.4 As technology allows, reduce tailpipe emissions f i hi l b i h i Maintenance Dept. Implement throu9h rom C ty ve c es y replac ng t em w th lt t f l h l d appropriate ordinances i a erna ive ue ve ic es, an encourage and adopt on of an air reduction of emissions from private vehicles by quality element. requirin9 preferential parking for alternative fuel vehicles. ER5.l.5 To the extent practicable, require control of Planning Dept. Implement throu9h emissions from the future Palmdale Regional Ai appropriate ordinances rport. and adoption of an air quality element. ER5.l.6 Expand the services of the existing dial-a-ride Planning Dept. Coordinate with AVTA. program resulting in reduced need for automobiles and parking by retired citizens. ER5.2.l Reduce dust from unpaved roads and parking lots Planning Dept. Require implementation by requiring paving or vegetative stabilization of the dust control of the unpaved areas; require that measures be measures contained in taken at construction sites to prevent the UBC and required by deposition of soil onto public rights-of-way. AQMD. -26- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN )4ITIGAION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER5.2.2 Encourage developers to maintain natural Planning Dept. Implement through the contours to the greatest degree possible, to provisions contained in eliminate the need for extensive land clearing, hillside ordinance. blasting, ground excavation, grading and cut and fill operations. ER5.2.3 Require erosion control measures on new Engineering Dept. Implement through corn- development, including covering soil with straw pliance with the mats or use of chemical soil and dust binders, current Engineering followed by seeding and watering as soon as f di f i i d i l design standards. e a ter gra ng to prevent ug t ve ust. poss b ER5.3 Reduce and/or eliminate unnecessary sources of Planning Dept. Implement throu9h air pollution. appropriate ordinances. ER5.3.1 Promote the South Coast Air Quality Management Planning Dept. Implement throu9h District's (SCAQMD) efforts to eliminate f i i i appropriate ordinances rom such sources as excess ve car em ss ons and through adoption of dealership cold starts, excessive curb idling, an air quality element. emissions from advertising vehicles, and emissions from leaf blowers, among others, through assistin9 with implementation and enforcement of district programs once they are adopted. ER5.3.2 Work with Caltrans and the Los Angeles County Planning Dept. Implement throu9h Sheriff's Department to minimize nonrecurrent i hi i i i appropriate ordinances i con9est on w ch contr butes em ss ons from and through adopt on of vehicle idling, by designing effective street an air quality element. systems and identifying appropriate truck routes. ER5.3.3 Reduce reactive organic gas (ROG) and Planning Dept. Rejuire compliance with particulate emissions from building materials existing SCAWMD rules and construction methods, by promoting the use through the development of nonsolvent-based, high-solid, or water-based review process. coatings, and requiring compliance with all pertinent SCAQMD rules. -27- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER5.4 Minimize emissions of air toxins and pollutants i i Planning Dept. Implement throu9h d i wh ch contr bute to global warming and ozone ate or inances appropr depletion, and through adoption of an air quality element. ER5.4.l Promote conmiunity awareness of the effects of Planning Dept. Implement through i i global warming and ozone depleting gases, as appropr ate ord nances f i well as methods to minimize the creation of on o and through adopt those 9ases, by preparing and distributing an air quality element. educational materials, and cooperating with CA MD i li hi i l S Q n estab programs. s ng reg ona ER5.4.2 Through the environmental review process for new Planning Dept. Implement through the development applications, ensure that emissions development review of air toxins, as defined by the South Coast Air process. Quality Management District, are minimized. ER5.5 Reduce air pollution caused by energy Planning Dept. Implement through i consumption. appropr ate ordinances d i f opt on o and through a an air quality element. ER5.5.l Encourage energy conservation from all sectors Planning Dept. Implement through i di of the comunity by promoting the use of energy appropr ate or nances d i f efficient appliances, processes and equipment, opt on o and through a and promoting energy audits of existing an air quality element. structures. ER5.5.2 Require local government, Palmdale citizens, and Planning Dept. Implement through the local businesses and industries to recycle, as Solid Waste Reduction mandated by state law, and to otherwise recycle and Recycling Element. to the extent possible. ER5.5.3 Require that new construction promote the use of Planning Dept. Implement through di i solar energy systems by providing maximum solar ate or nances appropr d i f access. opt on o and through a an air quality element. ER5.6 Minimize emissions from indirect sources such as Planning Dept. Implement throu9h counnercial, residential and recreational appropriate ordinances development, and through adoption of an air quality element. -28- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER5.6.1 Ensure that new development reduces Planning Dept. Implement through the project-related vehicle miles traveled to the development review pro- extent provided by law. cess and adoption of an air quality element. ER5.6.2 Promote the creation of high occupancy vehicle Traffic Engineer Coordinate with Caltrans lanes on State Route 14. to encourage development of HOV lanes. ER5.6.3 Reduce the number of people commuting to the Los Planning Dept. Coordinate with the Angeles metropolitan area by promoting actions Economic Development to increase the areas jobs/housing balance. Dept. to encourage creation of local jobs. ER5.6.4 Support the development of a rail system between Planning Dept. Work with LACTC to Palmdale and Los Angeles. identify possible rail projects. ER6.1.1 Establish a Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) Planning Dept. Immediate implementation designation. Permitted uses within the MRE with adoption of the designation shall consist of mineral resource General Plan. Ensure extraction (quarrying) and quarry related uses. ll b i d l d h compliance through the d l t i e perm tte Non-quarry re ate uses s a h Pl i h l th i eve opmen rev ew y w en ann ng n t e MRE area on e with process. Commission has made the following findings: a. The proposed use is compatible with and will not be detrimental to existing and future quarrying operations; and b. Long-term regional aggregate needs have been evaluated and available resources will remain adequate to meet the future needs of the market region. ER6.1.2 Prohibit incompatible land uses within the MRE Planning Dept. Limit appropriate uses designation. Example of incompatible land uses through revision of the include, but are not limited to, residential, zoning code. some public facilities, intensive industrial and commercial. -29- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONk4d'iAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER6.1.3 Require adequate buffering measures between land Planning Dept. Require buffering uses within the MRE designation and incompatible through revision of the uses outside of, and adjacent to the MRE area. zoning code. ER6.1.4 The State designated Mineral Resource Areas Planning Dept. Immediate implementation within Palmdale's jurisdiction shall be included with adoption of the in the City's Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) General Plan. Ensure designation to the maximum extent feasible. In compliance through the determining the boundaries of the MRE area, or development review in considering any proposed changes to these b d i i process. oun ar es, the City shall we gh the following considerations: a. The short term and long term economic importance to the region of conserving and developing aggregate resources; b. The economic multiplier effect on industries such as construction and trucking derived from assuring a long-term low cost f i l ithi source o aggregate mater a s w n the Palmdale Production-Consumption Region; c. The location of State Designated Resource Areas; d. The location of existing structures and projects under construction and the impact of quarrying operations on these uses; e. The location of previousl' approved (entitled) projects and the impact of quarrying operations on these uses; and, f. The location of property owned by entities not subject to regulation by the City. ER6.1.5 In order to assure the long term viability of Planning Dept. Boundaries have been present and future quarry operations, the b d i MRE d f ' i i proposed on the Land i oun ar es o the City s es gnat on should Use Map. Adopt on of be designed so as to minimize interface problems the General Plan will between future land uses within the MRE area and set these boundaries. future land uses outside of the MRE area. The -30- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE following ph'sical issues should be considered in establishing the boundary for the MRE designation: a. Noise and dust generation from quarrying operations and from the transportation of aggregate materials from the quarry sites; b. Aesthetics/visual impacts; c. Access to future quarry sites; d. Protection of Significant Ecological Areas; e. Protection of ground water recharge areas; and f. Probable trucking routes and their impact on the regional circulation system. ER6 2.1 Adopt a Specific Plan or equivalent Planning Dept. Adopt a specific plan or . comprehensive planning document for the Mineral other long-range plan d d l Resource Extraction district associated with the eman when deve opment Little Rock Wash. necessitates. ER6 22 In the Little Rock Wash area, address Planning Dept. Implement through the . environmental concerns related to: development review process. • Ground water contamination; • Sensitive Ecological Areas of flora and fauna; • Performance standards related to dust and noise and their impacts on surrounding 1roperties and uses; • Interface between mining activities and surrounding uses; • Aesthetics; and, • Public safety. ER6.2.3 Establish a reclamation plan for the entire area i Planning Dept. Adopt a reclamation plan when development demand ll that indicates what the various properties w necessitates be used for when mining operations cease, what . the target land use designation and zoning shall be for the reclaimed lands, and how the transition to new uses shall be implemented. -31- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MMU UR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER6.2.4 The area-wide reclamation plan should analyze Planning Dept. Implement through and plan for adequate areas for groundwater reclamation plan, once recharge. it is adopted. ER6.2.5 Address circulation to minimize impacts on the Traffic Engineer Implement throu9h the Citys existing and planned network, and or development review adjacent properties. process. ER6.2.6 Address infrastructure for the area, including Planning Dept. Implement through the appropriate means of controlling the floodway specific plan or and managing the flood plain, equivalent, once it is d d a opte . ER7.1 Promote the identification and preservation of Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the historic structures, historic sites, development review archaeological sites, and paleontological process. resources in the City. ER7.1.1 Identify and recognize historic landmarks from 1iispt. Implement throu9h the Palmdale's past. development review procest. ER7.l.2 Promote maintenance, rehabilitation, and Planning Dept. Promote aproriate use appropriate reuse of identified landmarks where of historic sites h revison of the throu feasible. g development cUe. ER7.l.3 Require that new development protect significant Planning Dept. Implement throwh the historic, paleontological, or archaeolo9ical development review resources, or provide for other appropriate process. mitigation. ER7.l.4 Develop and maintain a cultural sensitivity Planning Dept. Develop a sensitivity map. Require special studies/surveys to be prepared for any development proposals in areas map as soon as possible after adoption of the reasonably suspected of containing cultural or as indicated on the sensitivity r es General Plan to ensure protection of cultural resou c , resources. map. -32- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE ER7.1,5 When human remains, suspected to be of Native Planning Dept. Identify through the American origin are discovered, cooperate with development review the Native American Heritage Coimnission and any process. Implement local Native American groups to determine the appropriate measures most appropriate disposition of the human as required by NAHC or remains and any associated grave goods. others. Environmental The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Planning Dept. Implement through the Resources Element (Division 13 of the Public Resources Code) was development review/CEQA Implementation passed in 1970 to protect the quality of the processes. Measure A environment. The City will continue to d f i i i mplement CEQA as t is amen ed rom t me to time, through adoption of City CEQA guidelines and procedures. The program EIR for the City of Paledale General Plan documents existing environmental conditions and provides an assessment of citywide and regional impacts expected to occur as development takes place under the General Plan. The master EIR serves as the mechanism for evaluating proposed discretionary projects that may impact the areas resources and for providing appropriate mitigation measures. New ms will be incor im lementation r r rated p p og a po into the City's CEQA guidelines. The General Plan E!R also contains a mitigation monitoring plan. In compliance with AN 3180 (Cortese), a mitigation monitoring plan must be adopted prior to project implementation. This document may be utilized to ensure that mitigation of project-specific impacts is i I i undertaken n a timely manner. t also prov des i a feedback mechanism for determ ning the success of the City's CEQA guidelines and the effectiveness of mitigation programs. Environmental El t Historical, archaeological, and paleontological inf rmati n m will b d f r r r Planning Dept. Develop a sensitivity ossible a a s n as emen Resources o o aps e p o resou ce epare i f i i i p m p s oo f h i Implementation use by C ty staf to dentify areas w th a h gh l f i iti i Th on o t e after adopt l Pl t G Measure B or resource sens potent a v ty. e maps an o ensure enera shall be used to evaluate the need for cultural protection of cultural resource surveys prior to development, resources. Developments in areas which are likely to contain cultural resources will be required to perform surveys and submit reports. When resources are identified, appropriate testing i i i i and preservat on, m t gat on, or salvage will be required. -33 ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE ENRAL FLAN NVLRUk4M4XAL IMFACT REPORT REFERENCE Environmental 1. The City will require biological assessments Resources Element and reports for projects in known or Implementation suspected natural habitat areas prior to Measure C project approval. 2. The City will participate in a l i i i i mu t -jur sd ct onal habitat preservation plan for the West Mojave Desert area (West Mojave Coordinated Mana9ement Plan), and will implement the provisions of this Plan ft d i a er a opt on by the City Council. These reports will be used to establish significant natural habitat areas and ecologically sensitive zones in order to prevent disturbance and degradation of these areas. Recommended mitigation measures as Identified in the reports will be required to be implemented as development occurs. rnvx ronmentai Resources Element Implementation Measure D me city snaji. prepare an Air Quality Element, as recommended by the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the Southern California Association of Governments,, to more thoroughly address local air quality issues and local compliance with regional air quality attainment plans. 2. The City shall comply with the South Coast Air Quality Management District requirements to implement the Tier I, II and 111 control measures described in the South Coast Air Quality Management Plan (SCAQMP), to the extent these measures apply to Palmdale. 3. To reduce mobil source missions the City will implement a trip reduction ordinance. The ordinance should consider the number of Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) estimated to be 9enerated from each new development pro]ect in accordance with the requirements of SCAQMD, Los Angeles County Transportation Commission (LACTCO and other affected agencies. -34- Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the development review process. Continue coordination with ELM and others on prepara- tion of the West Mojave Coordinated Management Plan. adoption of appiopriate ordinances and prepara- tion and adoption of an air quality element. ---PAGE BREAK--- REFERENCE MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT source emissions. The miti9ation could include, but would not be limited to, development of telecommuting facilities; improvements to regional circulation systems; implementation of transportation demand management programs; or payment of a fee, based on vehicle miles travelled, to be used toward implementation of City efforts such as metro-rail, enterprise zone, commuter programs or other measures designed to meet the City's air quality goals. 4. Also, the City should support legislation that would provide tax incentives for developers to establish work centers in housing-rich Palmdale, and vanpool tax credit legislation which inclides such provisions as granting tax exempt status to compensation received for specific ridesharing programs; allowing tax deductions for employees who rideshare; and special tax credits for electric vanpools and clean-fuel vans. 5. To the extent feasible, the following measures shall be implemented to reduce emissions from Palmdale Airport (PMD): a. Reduce vehicle miles travelled to Palmdale Regional Airport through an Airport Ground Access Program for airport employers and passengers; b. Reduce emissions by using ground power systems that include centralized air conditioning systems. while aircraft are parked at terminal gates; c. Encourage the Airport Operator and SCAQMD to have all carriers use only Stage III aircraft in scheduled fleets using PMD; d. Recommend a "gate hold" procedure at PMD; e. Advocate a design for high speed taziways that most effectively reduces emissions and conserves fuel; f. Implement an engine shut down program if the benefit in reduction of ROG and CO emissions and energy conservation exceeds -35- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED the adverse impact of increased NOx emissions; g. Develop procedures to reduce fuel use by ground support vehicles, and ultimately to rely completely on cleaner alternate fuels. 6. To reduce emissions from natural gas combustion and electricity generation, the City will incorporate the most energy-efficient design consistent with a reasonable rate of return when retrofitting existing facilities and equipment in City buildings. In addition, the City will develop a public information program on energy conservation and cooperate with utilities to encourage energy eidits of existing structures, identify levels of existing energy uses and potential conservation measures. 7. Also, the City will analyze $he potential for the alternative use of an public facility, which is slated to e closed or consolidated with another facility, as a neighborhood work center: this policy should be communicated to affected agencies, such as the school board and library commission. 8. Finally, the Citr will adopt appropriate ordinances relating to trip reduction, non-motorized transportation, employer rideshare and transit incentives, parking management, merchant transportation incentives, auto use restrictions, and truck routing to both achieve compliance with the South Coast Air Quality Management Plan and implement City programs and standards. Environmental In accordance with the provisions of the Surface Planning Dept. Mineral Resources Resources Element Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) and policies are contained Implementation subsequent amendments, the Cit' of Palmdale has in the General Plan. Measure H adopted an ordinance imlementin9 mineral Implement throu9h the resource management policies. Mining within development review designated aggregate resource areas requires process and/or adoption approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) of appropriate before operations begin. The CUP shall be i ordinances. granted for a per od of time as specified by the Planning Commission with renewals approved by -36- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CIT! OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT REFERENCE the Plannin9 Commission. In addition, renewal of the CUP is dependent on the success of proposed mitigation measures for residual hazards. The ordinance also requires a reclamation plan for returning the site to reusable condition following cessation of mining operations. State environmental regulations require ongoing monitoring of operations to ensure adequate mitigation of adverse impacts. The City has developed standards for mining activity in the Planning Area in conjunction with the Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) land use (Exhibit LU-2). Mineral resource extraction is appropriate in these areas, as along as it complies with the following conditions: 1. Approval of a reclamation elan in compliance with the state Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA), as amended, and City regulations. 2. Standards for development in areas adjacent to the MRE designations require that all new residential, commercial or industrial development provide buffering from cuarrying operations that will conform to policies contained in the General Plan relating to noise, dust control, traffic or other impacts identified through the environmental review process. Where the Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) land use designation is adjacent to existing or approved but unbuilt development, the responsibility for buffering impacts of quarry operations shall be upon the quarry operator. Where the MRE designation is ad)acent to vacant land which has no approvals for development, the responsibility for buffering shall be shared by the future developer of the vacant property. In all cases, concentrated noise generators shall require buffering from the boundaries of the MRE designation to mitigate noise impacts on adjacent uses. 3. One of the Mineral Resource Extraction area covers a major groundwater recharge area and there exists a potential for groundwater contamination: thus, mining is not permitted below the groundwater level or to a level as determined throuqh environmental analysis. -37- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CIT Ok PAL iALE GENERAL PLAN iu1.aIiAL IMPACI REi'URT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE )4ITIGA1ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED 4. Noise impacts must be minimized by ensurin9 that the noise level at the property line is 65 dBA CNEL or less, when noise-sensitive uses or designations abut the quarry. 5. Mining areas must be fenced with a 6-foot view obstructing fence, wall, or landscaped berm along public streets or adjacent to residential areas. 6. Use of asphalt and petroleum-based materials, or other operations which may impair groundwater quality, in the quarry l i i i over ay d str ct are prohib ted, unless b i i su stant al ev dence is provided to demonstrate that such uses will not have significant impact on groundwater or other resources. 7. Safety measures for routine operations shall be established prior to permit approval. 8. As the Little Rock Wash MRE area may potentially contain sensitive ecological habitat, and has been indicated on the General Plan Land Use map as Significant Ecological. Area (SEA) overlay zone, appropriate steps shall be taken to identify, and protect any significant flora and fauna. 9. All mining operations in the Little Rock Wash area shall incorporate flood plain management provisions into their operations. Environmental The City has adopted a Native Desert Vegetation O di 2 Thi i Planning Dept. Implement adopted Resources Element r nance No. 95 . s ord nance is designed to ordinance. Ensure Implementation preserve a number of specimen quali4' juniper compliance through the Measure I and Joshua trees which add to community development review identity-, and to encourage the use of native process. vegetation in new development landscaping. All landscaping for new developments must conform to the requirements set forth in the Native Desert Vegetation Ordinance. In keeping with the intent of this Ordinance, the City may require preservation of significant stands through use of the Specific Plan process or equivalent -38- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE planning process, and throu9h design review processes on individual pro)ects. Environmental The City has adopted landscaping standards which Engineering Dept./ Implement throu9h the Resources Element address the following needs: Landscape Architect Engineering design Implementation standards. Ensure Measure J 1. Reestablishment of compatible native plant compliance through the materials on newly graded areas; development review process. 2. Landscaping of exposed slopes and graded areas for erosion control; 3. Water and energy conservation techniques, such as drip irrigation, drought tolerant species, and alluvial rockscape; 4. Use of fire resistant vegetation and fuel modification techniques; and, 5. Use of drought-tolerant plants to help in conserving water. The City's Landscape Architect will review landscape plans for al]. new development to ensure compliance with the City's landscape requirements. This process allows the City an opportunity to promote native vegetation and set guidelines for landscain and irrigation. The City has developed a listing of recommended plant species for perimeter landscaping and for use in the landscaping of new development. In addition, the City has compiled a separate listing of representative plant species found in the western Mojave Valley for use in developing "native" landscaping glans. Both listings are available to the public in the City's Planning ill d i w cont nue to and Engineering Departments an be utilized to ensure compliance with City landscaping standards. Environmental The City has developed a Hillside Ordinance to Planning Dept. Implement adopted Resources Element protect the hillsides from insensitive ordinance. Ensure Implementation development. The ordinance contains standards compliance through the Measure K which will apply to areas with a natural slope development review of 10 percent or more. Development standards process. for hillsides are further discussed in the -39- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATIO- ThE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE implementation section of the Safety Element. In addition to safety benefits, these standards will help to preserve open space and visually prominent landforms. Environmental The City's Parks and Recreation Element will Planning Dept. Prepare and adopt a Resources Element develop an open space and conservation plan to Parks and Recreation Implementation plan the acquisition and maintenance of vital element for the General Measure L open space areas. This plan will help Plan. coordinate efforts to provide open space and recreation opportunities to residents, as well as preserving sensitive habitats and species, where present. The Ritter Ridge, Portal Ridge, Lit l R k i t e oc Wash, B g Rock Wash and Alpine Butte area h th O l M s, s own on e ver ay ap an Exhibit ER-5, should be evaluated to determine the nature and extent of any significant ecolo9ical areas, and an appropriate financing mechanism to acquire those areas of particular importance. ll i A ava lable regional, state and federal funding will be solicited in order to acquire targeted significant ecolo9ical areas. The plan should also include criteria to identify appropriate new open space areas and to evaluate potential additions to the open space network. Additionally, the City may require dedication of open space, when appropriate, as a part of the development review process. Environmental The City shall continue to promote the Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Resources Element protection of sensitive, rare, threatened, and development review Implementation endangered species found in the Planning Area process and coordination Measure M through biological surveys required as part of with U.S. Fish and Wild- the CEQA review process. The City will life and California coordinate with the California Department of Department of Fish and Fish and Game and the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Game officials. Service to determine the best means of providing protection. In addition, the City is Continue participation participatin9 in the preparation of the West Mojave Coordinated Mana ement Pl hi h ill in preparing the West g an, w c w Mojave Coordinated provide management prescriptions for desert Management Plan. tortoise and Mojave ground squirrel. The City shall identify and inventory areas of significant sensitive ecological habitat and -40- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE shall prohibit disturbance of these areas to the extent feasible. The City shall establish preventative measures i where sensitive ecolog cal areas have been determined to occur adjacent to equestrian i tra ls. These measures could include use of interpretive signage to discourage vandalism or relocation of the trail away from the sensitive zone. Environmental Based upon its adopted Parkland Ordinance, the Planning Dept. Implement tbrou9h the Resources Element City of Palmdale will require the dedication of development review Implementation parkland or the payment of a parks fee by new process. Measure P developments in the City. The fees or land must i be used to prov de new land for parks or to subsidize the acquisition and maintenance of parks. This measure ensures that residents of new developments will eventually have access to adequate parks and recreation facilities without overburdening the City's financial resources. Dedication may also be used to acquire open space areas. Fees and land dedication are further discussed in the Parks and Recreation Element. Environmental The City will cooperate with local water Planning Dept. Continue on-going Resources Element providers and flood control agencies to develop efforts to establish Implementation a groundwater recharge program. The City can i i a groundwater recharge Measure R contr bute to th s effort by ensuring that major h k t b d l d id i pro9raxn. Land use map i rec arge areas ep e un eve ope to a n l mits development in water recharge. recharge areas such as Little Rock Wash. Environmental The City should coordinate with Los Angeles Planning Dept. Encourge the use of Resources Element County Sanitation District to investigate the reclaimed water where Implementation potential for expanding water reuse programs. feasible through the Measure S Treated wastewater is currently used to irrigate development review some agricultural areas 9rowing non-food crops. process and through With the growing population, supplies of treated modification of existing water will increase. Treated wastewater might City irrigation be used to irrigate roadside and commercial practices. landscaping, in addition to a9ricultural lands, to help conserve Palmdale's limited fresh water resources. The City may offer incentives to -41- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE agricultural, commercial, and residential developments that use recycled water for irrigation. Environmental The City's Master Drainage Plan indicates Planning Dept. Implement the existing Resources Element natural drainage courses in Palmdale and other master drainage plan Implementation areas sensitive to flooding. Groundwater through the development Measure T recharge areas are noted which could aid the review process and City in developin9 water conservation programs. use of drainage impact The City will actively pursue the construction fees. of drainage facilities recommended in the plan and address development restrictions in floodplain areas. The City's Master Drainage Plan is discussed in the Public Services Element. Environmental The City will map all known historic, Planning Dept. Develop a sensitivity Resources Element I l t i archaeological, and paleontological resources d map as soon as possible mp emen at on an ensure the protection of these resources. after adoption of the Measure V The City will review plans for development in General Plan to ensure potentially sensitive areas. Develo'nt in protection of cultural paleontologica]ly and archaeolo9ica]y $ensitive resources. areas where impacts cannot be mitigated will be discouraged. -42-- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGA]ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS1.l.l Require all new development, including major Planning Dept. Implementation is on- ; tri ered throu h oin modifications to existing development, to gg g g g construct required on-site infrastructure development review improvements pursuant to City standards. process. PS1.l.2 Require all new develonnent, including major Planning Dept. Implementation is on-. modifications to existing development, to going; triggered through construct or provide a fair share contribution the development review towards construction of required off-site process. improvements needed to support the project. PS1.l.3 Require that on- and off-site improvements are Planning Dept./ Implementation is constructed prior to occupancy of a new Engineering Dept./ on-going. development project, or phase thereof, unless Building and Safety otherwise approved by the City. PS1.l.4 Require that adequate provisions are made for Public Works Dept./ D t Pl i Implement throu9h the ment review develo maintenance of public improvements, prior to ep . ann ng p approval of any new development project. process. P51.1.5 When new development is proposed in vacant, Planning Dept. Implementation will rural areas which have not yet been occur immediately after master-planned for provision of infrastructure, general Plan adoption; require that development proponents provide for triggered throu9h the d l t or contribute a fair share towards development review eve opmen of regional master facility plans for roads, process. sewer, water, drainage and community facilities, prior to granting conditional approval of li ations d l t app c . eve opmen PS1.l.6 When reviewing applications for land useG l Planning Dept. Implementation is on- oing enera designation changes zone change, g . Plan Amendment, specific plan amendment), conduct a thorough analysis of the impacts of f th l e ements o the ?roposed change on all e i d requ re Cit s infrastructure systems, an mitigation as deemed appropriate. PS1.2.1 Require that provision of streets, sewer, water, Planning Dept. Implementation is on- drainage and other needed infrastructure be going; review throu9h coordinated in a logical manner between adjacent pre-application review developments, so as to reduce cost of design, process. construction and maintenance. -43- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGArION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS1.2.2 Require that individual development projects i ith d l ith Planning Dept. Implementation is on- ntegrate w a jacent deve opment w respect going; review through to backbone infrastructure (streets, sewer, pre-application review water and drainage). If adjacent property is process. If required, undeveloped, a conceptual plan should be submit plan prior to prepared to show that the pending development development approval. will allow for future integration and develo*ment of adjacent properties in a manner which is reasonable from a design, construction and cost standpoint. PS1.2.3 Require that the proposed infrastructure design Planning Dept. Implementation is on- within a development project permits economical going; triggered through and efficient development of land, both on the the development review subject property and on adjacent properties. process. PS1.2.4 Require that phasing of infrastructure Planning Dept. Implementation is on- rejuirements within a development consider going; review throu9h ad)acent properties to the extent feasible. pre-application review process. PS1.2.5 Require that infrastructure be designed and Public Works Dept./ Implementation is on- constructed to meet ultimate capacity needs, Engineering Dept. going; review annually pursuant to a master plan, so as to avoid the through the CIP. need for costly retrofitting. PS1.2.6 Where feasible, require that consideration be Public Works Dept. Implementation is on- given to sharing draina9e detention facilities i i i going; triggered through between adjacent subd vis ons, w th the cost the development review shared on a "fair share" basis. process. PS1.2.7 Ensure that street ri9hts-of-way, drainage f ili i i i Planning Dept./ Implementation is on- ac t es, s te grading, or other s milar Public Works Dept. going; review through public infrastructure are not aligned in a master infrastructure manner that increases the developabiliqr of a plans and the CIP. single property at the expense of an ad] acent property, unless so required by regional infrastructure plans. PS1.2.8 Distribute the costs of extending infrastructure Public Works Dept. Implementation is on- equitably among those benefiting from the i going; review of impact mprovements, fees occurs regularly. -44- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS1.3.2 Direct growth towards areas which already have Planning Dept. Develop an incentives backbone infrastructure available, by providing program in the revised incentives for quality inf ill development, development code. PS1.3.3 Encourage development which fully utilizes Planning Dept. Implementation is on- existin9 infrastructure systems, while decreasing the need for costly extensions of going; triggered through the development review infrastructure into undeveloped areas. process. PS1.3.4 Encoura9e clusterin9 of development where i Planning Dept. Revise the Development appropriate, to maxim ze use of infrastructure. Code to encourage clustering. PS1.3.5 Adopt comprehensive planning documents such as Planning Dept. Implementation is on- area plans, specific plans and development timin and e if the nature em nt to going; triggered through the de l m t i g sp c y , a9re e s, ve op en rev ew financing of public improvements and services, process. PS1.3.6 Encourage mixed use development, to maximize use Planning Dept. Revise the Development of infrastructure system. Code to encourage mixed- use development. PS1.4.1 Adopt and annually update the City a Capital Public Works Dept. Implementation is on- Improvement Program (CIP) to prioritize funding going; CIP is annually for public works projects in accordance with updated. this General Plan. PS1.4.2 Adopt and implement service level standards for Public Works Dept. Identify standards and roads, drainage and park facilities, through include those standards on-going monitoring of existing levels of in the En9ineering service and through the CIP. Design Guidelines. PS1.4.3 Adopt, implement and annually review user fee Public Works Dept. Imlemontation is on- and impact fee programs, to support the cost of going; traffic, drainage constructing capital facilities and providing and park fees are services. currently in place. PS1.4.4 Explore and implement a variety of public Public Works Dept. Inplementation is on- financing methods to fund infrastructure goln9; a variety of improvements, including assessment districts, funding sources are -45- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Mello-Roos conununity facilities districts, presently being redevelopment funds, block grant funds, and/or utilized. combinations of these and other available funding sources. PS1.4.5 Adopt funding mechanisms to fund coimnunity i i i Public Works Dept. Implementation will f i i facil t es throughout the connnun ty, which may on o occur w th adopt address the Civic Center, library, recreation a fee program. The center, performing arts center, public works priority for implemen- yard, senior center expansion, Maryott Auditorium h ili i d b i f ili i ting the fee program is hi h re ab tat on, an other pu l c ac t es as g . deemed appropriate. PS1.4.6 Evaluate the need for satellite City services Administration Evaluate service levels throughout the comunity as outlying areas develop. PS1.4.7 Evaluate infrastructure facilities and service Planning Dept./ Inmiediate implementation levels within developed areas which annex to the Public Works Dept. upon General Plan R i i City and promote programs to retrofit street, ev ew annex- adopt on. drainage and sewer improvements where warranted. ations as appropriate. PS1.5.3 Coordinate planning issues with outside service Planning Dept. Implementation is on- provider representatives, such as the school i i i f' fi di i going through the pre- i li i d str cts, sher f s department, re str ct, on rev ew app cat water districts, and sanitation district, to process and regular promote coordinated master planning for these coordination meetings. services. PS1.6.l Through adoption of an ordinance, regulate Public Works Dept. An Undergrounding utility line and other utility infrastructure Ordinance is in place. placement and require undergrounding in Implementation of the specified locations where feasible. ordinance will continue. PS1.6.2 Coordinate installation of utility line Engineering Dept./ Implementation is on- h i placement with street construction where Public Works Dept. e rev going through t ew possible, to minimize cost. of infrastructure plans. PSi .6.3 Throu9h the development review process, protect Planning Dept. Implementation is on- existxn9 utility easements and require going through the dedication of additional easements where needed. development review process. -46- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS2.l.l Require new development to obtain adequate water i th i d d d Planning Dept. Implementation is on- serv ce to meet e ncrease deman generate going; triggered through by that development, the development review process. PS2.l.2 Protect groundwater quality, through policies Planning Dept./ Implementation will and implementation measures contained in the Public Works Dept. immediately follow Environmental Resources Element. General Plan adoption. PS2.l.3 Promote water conservation in all phases of l i d l t d t i h h Planning Dept./ E i i Implementation will i i p ann ng an eve opmen cons ruct on, t roug ng neer ng Dept./ ately follow mmed policies and implementation measures contained Building end Safety General Plan adoption. in the Environmental Resources Element. PS2.l.4 Support water suppliers and other jurisdictions Public Works Dept. Implementation is on- within the Antelope Valley in studying the going with City's parti- current status and projected needs for water cipation in regional supply end delivery, groundwater study. PS2.2.l Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Public Works Dept. Implementation is on- Sanitation District to evaluate the sewage di l t f l 9oing with coordination i sposa sys em as o ten as necessary (at east biannuall ) to ensure ade of the s stem t uac in the preparat on and i l t ti f y , y q y o mp emen a on o a meet changes in demand and changes in types of Sewer Master Plan. waste which occur as a result of development. PS2.2.2 Require new development to pay necessary fees i f h Planning Dept. Implementation is on- for expans on o t e sewage disposal system to going; conditions of the appropriate a9encies, to handle the approval for development increased load which it will generate. projects require payment of fees. PS2.2.3 Support the toe Angeles County Sanitation Public Works Dept./ Coordinate with the District in preparation of a master plan for Planning Dept. County to determine regional sewer facilities in Palmdale. future facility needs. PS2.2.4 Require that all commercial, industrial, i i i l l i l il i i Planning Dept/ Implementation is on- nst tut ona , mu t p e fam y and s ngle fam ly id i l ith l i f l Public Works Dept. going; triggered by the res ent a uses w ot s zes o ess than one development review acre be connected to a public sewer system. process. -47- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGAL F(R TUE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IM2ACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS2.2.5 Promote annexation of incorporated areas into Planning Dept. Implement through the the Los Angeles County Sanitation District development review boundaries in a logical fashion, to promote ffi i l i process. e c ent master-p ann ng for sewer facilities. PS2.2,6 Work with the Sanitation District to identify Planning Dept. Coordinate with the users for reclaimed water and support plans for Sanitation Districts as its treatment and distribution, necessary. PS3.l Maintain and implement the City's adopted Mast Works Dept. Implementation is on- Drainage Plan. going. PS3.1.1 Continue the drainage impact fee program and Public Works Dept. Implementation is on- periodically adjust fees as needed, going. PS3.l.2 Evaluate the intact of all new development and Public Works Dept./ Implement through the expansion of existing facilities on storm runoff Planning Dept. development review and ensure that the cost of upgrading existing draina e fa iliti h dl t h ddi i process, review drainage g c es an e t o e a t onal impact fees periodically runoff is paid for by the development which to ensure that they generates it. are adequate. PS3.1.3 Make use of interim local drainage detention Public Works Dept. Implement through the basins to slow stormwater runoff, until such development review time as permanent drainage facilities are process. constructed. PS3.l.4 Through the development review process, reserve Planning Dept. Implement through the land from development in appropriate locations development review for construction of drainage facilities. - process. PS3.1.5 Require and provide for on-going maintenance of Public Works Dept. Maintenance is on-going. drainage and detention facilities, to ensure Review through annual their continued effectiveness in controlling CIP/budget processes runoff, to ensure adequacy. PS3.2 Coordinate drainage master planning with Public Works Dept./ Implement through the environmental resource management. Planning Dept. development review - process. -48- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGA2ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS3.2.1 Where feasible, plan for detention or retention Public Works Dept./ Implement through the facilities in areas where groundwater recharge Planning Dept. Master Drainage Plan. can be accomplished. Revise if necessary. PS3.2.2 Where feasible, construct drainage facilities so Public Works Dept./ Implement through the as to protect or enhance natural riparian Planning Dept. Master Drainage Plan. habitat areas. Revise if necessary. P53.2.3 Where feasible, combine drainage facilities with Public Works Dept./ Implement through the opportunities for recreation, as in placement of Planning Dept./ Master Drainage Plan. trails within drainage easements, or placement Parks and Recreation Revise if necessary and of ball fields within detention areas. coordinate with Parks and Recreation Dept. PS4.l.l Through the development review process, ensure Plannin9 Det./ Implement throu9h the that adequate school sites are reserved to serve School Districts development review the ultimate needs of the population; coordinate process. Continue with school districts to identify appropriate coordination with all sites and consider school district master plans School Districts. in evaluating development proposals. PS4.l.2 Offer administrative, planning and engineering Planning Dept.! Continue coordination assistance to the school districts in reviewing Engineering Dept.! with all School school site plans with respect to City plans for Administration Districts. drainage, traffic, adjacent land uses and other considerations. PS4.1.3 In review of development adjacent to school Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the sites, ensure that street and lot placement, development review grades, walls and other design considerations process, subdivision are incorporated into the desi9n so as to design guidelines. minimize potential conflicts with school uses. PS4.1.4 Condition approvals of development projects to Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the meet the funding requirements of applicable development review school districts; on legislative decisions such process. as zone changes or General Plan Amendments, specific plan amendments, or other land use entitlements, require the property owner to enter into and execute an agreement with the affected i i i l t es School District to achieve school fac mitgation. -49- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALk (,.k4.RAL LAk' vik((fl4MM.XAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS4.l.5 Support joint use of school and City park Planning Dept./ Continue coordination facilities, where appropriate, to meet the needs Parks and Recreation/ with appropriate School of the local comrnuni4', through site location Administration Districts and the Parks and planning, and assistance with construction and Recreation Dept. funds. PS4.2.l Cooperate with other jurisdictions and agencies Administration/ Continue efforts to to work towards establishment of a four-year Planning Dept. lobby California Regents college or university in the Antelope Valley. to locate a 4-year college in Palmdale. PS4.2.2 Facilitate location of pre-school and day-care Planning Dept. Implement through facilities in appropriate areas throughout the revisions to the community, so as to meet the needs of the Development Code. working population. PS4.2.3 Support continuing education programs, such as City Librarian/ Continue efforts of the literacy training, through City library and park Parks and Recreation City Librarian. programs. PS5.l.l Obtain fire protection, fire prevention and Administration/ Continue coordination paramedic services from Los Angeles County Fire Fire Dept. with the Fire Department Protection District, to ensure adequate fire protection. PS5.l.2 Monitor needs and service levels, and strive to Administration/ Continue coordination minimize response time in both urbanized areas Fire Dept. with the Fire Department and rural or outlying areas. to minimize response times. PS5.1.3 Through the development review process, assess Planning Dept./ Implement throu9h the fire protection needs of development projects Fire Dept. development review and require mitigation needed to maintain process with coordina- adequate service levels, including but not tion with the Fire Dept. limited to reservation of sites for fire stations and fair-share contributions for fire suppression equipment. PS5.l.4 Coordinate with and assist the Fire Protection Planning Dept./ Continue coordination District in planning for future fire station Fire Dept. with the Fire Dept. to sites in Palmdale, and facilitate location and identify station sites. -so - ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE construction of fire stations in conjunction with other City facilities (such as parks or municipal buildings) where feasible. PS5.2.l Contract with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Administration/ Contract for sheriff's Department for law enforcement services. Sheriff's Dept. services is reviewed and renewed annually. PS5.2.2 Coordinate with and provide input to the Administration/ Continue coordination Sheriff's Department regarding planning for Sheriff's Dept./ with the Sheriff's Dept. sheriff's facilities serving Palmdale, with the Planning Dept. to identify a station goal of ultimately obtaining a full-service site. sheriff's station and satellite stations as needed to serve the community. PS5.2.3 Monitor staffing and service levels for law Administration/ Contract for sheriff's enforcement services and work with the Sheriff's Sheriff's Dept. services is reviewed and Department to ensure adequate staffing to meet renewed annually. service level needs of the community. PS5.3.1 Evaluate the existing and future library system City Librarian Continue the planning in the Plannin9 Area and plan for provision of efforts of the City sufficient facility space and materials to serve Librarian. the population. PS53.2 Adopt and implement the following standards as a City Librarian Adoption of General Plan i i d d goal for library service to the community: w ll put th s stan ar in place. Adoption of 2.5 volumes per capita a facilities fee will 8.5 periodicals per 1,000 population assist implementation 0.5 staff er 1,000 population of the standard. 5.0 reader a seats per 1,000 population 0.8 square foot of building space per capita. PS5.3.3 Maintain reciprocal agreements with the county City Librarian Coordinate with the library system and other institutions to provide County Library system as an additional resource in the City. necessary. PS5.3.4 Promote the construction of new libraries and City Librarian Identify funding sources the expansion of existing libraries as required for expansion of to meet the needs of existing and future facilities. population. -51- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAfION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS5.3.5 Encourage the provision of library outreach City Librarian Identify outreach services for residents who cannot visit library programs and necessary facilities, funding sources. PS5.4.1 Adopt and implement a standard of 5 acres of Parks and Recreation Adoption of the General parkland per 1,000 population for the City. Plan will put in place this standard. P55.4.2 Implement the Parks and Recreation Element as a Parks and Recreation Prepare and adopt a master plan for park acquisition and improvement. Parks and Recreation element. P55.4.3 Develop a recreation facility to meet the Parks and Recreation Develop as funding and regional recreation needs of the community. demand for recreation facilities allow. PS5.4.4 Collect park fees and review this fee annually, Building and Safety/ Collect fee at issuance to provide financing for improvement of parkland Parks and Recreation of certificate of occu- in Palmdale. pancy. Review annually to ensure adequacy. PS5.4.5 Seek public input on design of all new Parks and Recreation Implement as park sites neighborhood and community parks in Palmdale. are slated for develop- ment. PS5.4.6 Explore various means of acquiring parkland and Parks and Recreation Continue efforts to seek creative and flexible techniques to identify additional accomplish City park goals, including but not funding sources for d l t k i limited to fee vouchers in exchange for parkland. eve opmen . par s te PS5.47 Where feasible, utilize parks for joint use as Parks and Recreation/ Coordinate with the flood control facilities. Public Works Dept. Public Works Dept. to identify joint use sites. PS5.5.1 Encourage the balanced development of medical Planning Dept. Encourage through care facilities throughout the City. revisions to the Development Code. -52- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS5.5.2 Work with Los Angeles County to assist in Planning Dept. Coordinate with Los coordination of health care programs for City Angeles County to residents. identify necessary programs. PS5.7.l Develop or irovide a performing arts center to Administration Develop as funding and serve a variety of musical, theatrical, exhibit demand for the facility and meeting uses. dictate. PS6.l.l Review proposed development with respect to the Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the SWMP to ensure consistency. development review process. PS6.1.2 Base future decisions on franchise agreements on Planning Dept. Implement as the current the SWMP. franchise agreements expire. PS6.l.3 Develop and implement waste reduction and Planning Dept. Implement programs recycling programs in compliance with the SWMP. specified in the SWMP. PS6.l.4 Update and maintain the SWMP as needed, with a Planning Dept. mplement as specified. complete review at least every five years, to ensure that the Plan accurately reflects changin9 waste stream conditions, government regulations, and City goals. PS6.2.l Identify hazardous waste generators and their Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the waste streams by type and quantity, and provsions contained in facilitate the use of appropriate hazardous the existing Zoning waste management technology by generators, Code. placing the greatest emphasis on those technologies which achieve source reduction and waste minimization. P56.2.2 Ensure that the siting of hazardous waste Planning Dept. Implement through the facilities in the City is consistent with the development review General Plan, including provisions to ensure process. protection of residents, businesses and environmental resources, and provide for the safe transport of wastes. -53- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MOHlTt. FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE PS6.2.3 Provide opportunities for public participation i h h d Planning Dept. Implement through the h l n t e review of proposed azar ous waste azardous waste regu a- facilities. tions contained in the zoning code. PS6.2.4 Facilitate compliance with regulations requiring Planning Dept. Implement through the the preparation of Hazardous Materials hazardous waste regula- Management Plans and Risk Management Prevention tions contained in Plans, as applicable to handlers of specified the zoning code. hazardous materials and acutely hazardous materials. PS6.2.5 Facilitate the implementation of programs Planning Dept. Implement through the designed to provide for the safe management of hazardous waste regula- hazardous wastes generated by small quantity tions contained in generators, including households. the zoning code. PS6.2.6 Support the regulation and enforcement of Planning Dept. Review legislation and/ hazardous waste laws governing the generation, or other regulations as handling, storage, transport, treatment and introduced. disposal of hazardous waste. PS6.2.7 Require disclosure of the presence of hazardous Planning Dept. Implement through the materials on property proposed for development, hazardous waste regula- tions contained in the zoning code. Public Services The City will cooperate with service providers Planning Dept. Implement through the i l Element to provide data needed to analyze available opment rev ew deve Implementation capacities and to estimate the demands of process, and on-going Measure A proposed projects. In order to ensure adequate coordination with provision of public services and utilities, service providers. service capacities and future demand should be identified. With this information, the City and Creation of data base other service providers can evaluate the impacts will occur information of new development on existing facilities, i i i h is available. n serv Expans ons and changes ces s ould be itored, as should new developments in mon adjacent areas that are served by the same service provider. This program should include the following efforts: 1. Data will be compiled in the Planning Department, with input from other departments and agencies, including coordination between City and county offices. ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE 2. Current data will be maintained on available capacity of public utilities and services to use in evaluating project demands. 3. When necessary, data will be obtained regarding usage rates of current developments and updates on the capacities of services. 4. Data will be maintained on existing and planned development. 5. Master plans for sewers, water, schools, libraries and other facilities will be retained on file for evaluation and monitoring purposes. Public Services Every proposed project will be evaluated Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Element according to CEQA prior to approval. The CEQA development review Implementation process ensures that environmental impacts will ith i if l f and CEQA processes. Measure B icance w non-s gn o be mitigated to a leve regard to groundwater resources, public services (schools, libraries, police protection and fire protection), and public utilities. The CEQA process is discussed further in the Environmental Resources Element of the General Plan. Public Services 1. The City will continue to incorporate Planning Dept. Continue requiring Element service commitment requirements into its commitment letters at Implementation project review process to ensure the tiliti t d i i i the time of issuance of ermits audi buildin 1easure C u es o ces an ty of serv availab l g p new developments. These written commitments or approval of final are required for the following services maps. prior to issuance of final maps or building permits: a. Water service b. Sewer service c. Natural gas service d. Power a. Telephone f. Solid waste g. Schools h. Fire protection i. Police protection -55- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT ENERAL PLAN REFERENCE 2. Service commitment requirements shall include the following: a. Master or specific plan developments shall dedicate land and/or coordinate with the appropriate agencies for the provision of services such as fire stations, schools, or libraries if the project causes significant impacts on existing services. b. All projects must pay impact fees to ensure provision of adequate services to development. c. All relevant service providers shall be notified of pending projects and invited to comment prior to tentative project approval. d. Service commitment letters from all relevant utility companies will be required prior to issuance of building permits. ublic Services The City will include public tacil.ity expansions Element in its Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The Implementation pro9ram's priorities shall be coordinated with Measure D anticipated developments to ensure that infrastructure and facilities are constructed where and when they are needed. Public Services Element Implementation Measure E The City's development plan review process shall include and/or consider: 1. Coordination with capital improvement projects. 2. Evaluation of available and future capacities of public services and utilities (as facilitated by service capacity monitoring). 3. Review of impacts on groundwater recharge areas. 4. Availability of sewer system capacity. 5. Existence of, or plans for, adequate Liciit c Works Uept. impiement witn tue nex CIP cycle and consider annually thereafter. Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the development review process. ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE 7. Contiguous development. 8. Impacts on libraries, schools, fire and police protection services, and recreation facilities. 9. Landfill site impact and capacity. Public Services The City will cooperate in planning for the Planning Dept./ Continue cooperation Element expansion of public services and utilities that Public Works Dept. with service providers Implementation serve the area. The City may recommend programs to ensure that adequate Measure F or measures that will serve the best interests infrastructure is of the City. In addition, the City will promote available for planned coordinated infrastructure plannin9 to provide development. shared corridors for various facilities, to minimize visual and environmental impacts and required easements. Public Services The City will establish the following water Planning Dept./ Cooperate with water Element conservation programs to help preserve resources Public Works Dept./ purveyors to develop Implementation in the Planning Area. Building and Safety the programs listed. Measure H 1. Assist in developing public awareness programs on groundwater resources and overdrafting, to encourage residents and business in reducing water consumption. 2. Explore use of reclaimed water for irrigating golf courses, median dividers, and parkways. 3. Encourage the use of native local plants and other drought tolerant plants in landscaping throughout the City. 4. Develop a water conservation ordinance including but not limited to the following measures: a. Encouraging the installation of low flush toilets and low flow shower heads in existing residential developments. b. Restricting washing down of sidewalks and driveways. -57- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE c. Requirements for recycling mechanisms for commercial car washes. d. Encouraging irrigation in the early mornings and late evenings only. e. Encouraging water recycling on construction projects. 5. Develop a zeriscape ordinance. Public Services The City will maintain, update and implement its Public Works Dept. Update sewer master plan Element master plan for the local sewerage system in the as necessary: implement Implementation Planning Area, and will cooperate with the provisions contained Measure I County Sanitation District in planning for i therein. ty, together regional sewage facilities. The C with the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, should monitor sewer line deficiencies and implement programs to retrofit inadequate lines as needed. Public Services The City will maintain and implement the Master Public Works Dept. Continue implementation Element Drainage Plan, to provide the City with a of the master drainage Implementation comprehensive storm drainage system. plan: collect fees and Measure j construct facilities as development occurs. Public Services The City will review development proposals for Public Works Dept./ Implement throu9h the Element compliance with floodplain standards as Planning Dept. development review Implementation contained in the Safety Element, to reduce process. Measure K hazards due to flooding. Residential development will be prohibited in floodplain areas unless the flood hazard has been adequately mitigated. The capture and utilization of flood waters for groundwater recharge will be explored. -58-- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN )4ITIGAf ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Public Services The City has adopted a Solid Waste Management Public Works Dept./ Continue implementation Element Plan to comply with Assembly Bill 939 (kB939), Planning Dept. of the adopted SWMP. Implementation the California Integrated Waste Mana9ement Act Measure L of 1989. The AB939 Act requires cities to develop plans to divert 25% of all solid waste from landfill disposal by 1995, and a total of f P l d l ' h Ci a m a e s ty o 50% by the year 2000. T e li i d Recyc ng on an plan includes a Source Reduct Element, a Household Hazardous Waste Element, and a siting section which identifies criteria for the location of solid waste landfills, transfer stations, recycling centers and other waste facilities. The City will implement this Plan in all activities related to waste management, and will update the Plan as needed. Public Services 1. The City will prepare and adopt a hazardous Planning Dept. Adopt a hazardous waste Element waste management plan to comply with state mana9ement plan as Implementation law. required by law. Measure M 2. The City will require all proposed developments to: a. Provide a list of all chemicals that will be used in the construction and operation of the project. b. Comely with all existing regulations governing the generation, handling, storage, transport, treatment and disposal of hazardous wastes. c. Identify any hazardous waste existing on a site proposed for development. Public Services City staff will meet regularly with School Planning Det./ Continue coordination Element District representatives to coordinate land use School Districts with the School Implementation planning and development review with school Districts; develop a Measure N facility planning, and to create and maintain a data base as information shared database for planning and forecasting is made available. purposes. The data base may include but not be limited to the following: a. Enrollment histories and projections by school, grade, gender, and race. -59- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE b. Colleges attended by high school seniors. c. Current birthrates for projecting five year enrollment. Public Services 1. The City will annually coordinate service Administration/ Continue coordination Element needs with the County Fire Department for Planning Dept. with the Fire Dept. and Implementation fire protection, and the City will annually the Sheriff's Dept. to Measure 0 review the contract with the County ensure that adequate Sheriff's Department for police protection fire and police services services, to assure that adequate facilities are available. and services are available to serve the needs of the Planning Area. 2. The Fire Department and Sheriff's Department will be invited to participate in the development plan review process to ensure adequacy of services and planning for safety. 3. The City will continue to support mutual aid programs with the Angeles National Forest and the USA? Plant 42 in providing public i ices to the Plann ng Area. serv 4. The City will coordinate long range master planning with Los Angeles County for Fire i ' i Department and Sher ff s Department Serv ces. Public Services 1. The City will continue to strictly enforce Building and Safety Continue enforcement of Element building and fire safety codes to minimize existing city codes. Implementation hazards and the demand for emergency Measure P services. 2. The City will continue to require the provision of fire alarms, fire escapes, and extinguishing systems within all commercial, indu8trial, and multi-family developments. -60- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Public Services The City will promote public awareness programs Public Works Dept./ Implement through the Element to solicit citizen involvement in reducing the Planning Dept. PAC program and other Implementation demands for public services and utilities, community-based efforts Measure Q Awareness can lead to voluntary action, support, d i i i to involve Palmdale citizens in City efforts an n programs, an pat on active partic understanding of community and regional issues to maximize efficiency that affect the City. These programs may of existing public include but not be limited to: services. • Fire prevention • Crime prevention • Anti-drug campai9ns • Energy conservation • Water conservation • Earthquake safety • Recycling programs ro rams • Ed ti l p g uca ona • Other community projects The City will encourage and support neighborhood watch programs, assist in the initial formation of such groups, and coordinate efforts with the Sheriff's Department. Public Services Facility fees and charges will be imposed on new Public Works Dept. Continue collection of Element developments pursuant to City ordinances, traffic, drainage and Implementation Facility fees and charges may be established for park fees. Implement Measure S developments to pay for the infrastructure and th i i public facility fees if a ropriate e nta n services that will be needed to ma pp . project. Public Services The City may assist in financing of Public Works Dept./ Establish financing Element infrastructure needed to support new development Finance Dept. districts as needed to Implementation throu9h establishment of special financing construct public im- Measure T districts, where appropriate. provements. Public Services 1. The City will develop a library master plan City Librarian Develop a master plan Element for construction of additional library based on the standards d throu h tabli h Implementation facilities, pursuant to adopted City library i g es s e General Plan policies to Measure U ng standards. Additional sites, fund mechanisms, and improvement programs and provided adequate facilities will be addressed. library service. -61- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE 2. Reciprocal agreements with the county library s'stem, local colleges and universities will continue to be implemented to provide additional library resources to City residents. Public Services The City will promote location of a 4 'ear Administration Continue coordination Element college or university within the Planning Area. with the state to Implementation attract a college or Measure V university. Public Services The development standards contained within the Planning Dept. Implement through Element Zonin9 ordinance will be designed. to promote the revisions to the Implementation location of preschool and daycare facilities zoning ordinance. Measure W within the Planning Area. -62- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE S1.l.1 Provide copies of 9eotechnical reports for Planning Det./ Implement throu9h the projects located within the Alquist-Priolo City Geologist development review Special Studies Zone, as shown on the Overlay process. Map, to the State Division of Mines and Geology. Sl.l.2 Assist developers in obtaining necessary Plannin9 Dept./ Provide information technical and policy information regarding i i Engineering Dept. through the Engineering d i c hazards. se sm es gn standards and the Aiquist-Priolo maps. Sl.1.3 Require geotechnical studies, to be reviewed and Planning Det./ Implement throucjh the approved by the City's geologist, for h l i City Geologist development review n areas w ere development proposa s process. 9eotechnical hazards may be present, and implement the recommendations of those reports as deemed necessary by the City. 51.1.4 Require appropriate structural sethacks from Planning Det./ Implement throu9h the active fault rupture traces in accordance with City Geologist/ development review Aiquist-Priolo standards and as required by the Engineering Dept. process. City, based on geotechnical analysis. S1.1.5 Require structural sethacks or special Planning Det./ Implement throu9h the foundations for structures within potentially City Geologist/ development review active fault zones as determined by the City, Engineering Dept. process. based on geotechnical analysis. Sl.1.6 Require special foundations within inactive Planning Det./ Implement throu9h the fault zones if determined necessary by the City. City Geologist/ development review Engineering Dept. process. S1.1.7 Restrict location of utility lines, whether Plannin9 Dept./ Implement throu9h the above or below ground, within fifty feet of a Engineering Dept. development review fault trace, except to cross the fault trace. process. Coordinate Utility lines crossing fault traces should be i i with utility purveyors l i i i thstand the expected specifically des gned to w on ocat on of ut l ty movement of the earth in these locations, lines. Utility lines as defined here would include, but not be limited to, electricity, water, natural gas and sewer. -63- ---PAGE BREAK--- CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Si .1.8 Require that all structures should meet or Engineering Dept./ Implement through exceed state required earthquake resistant Building and Safety buildin9 plan check/ design standards. permit issuance. S1.1.9 Review development proposals located in or i Engineering Dept./ D t Pl i Implement throu9h the ment review develo l immediately adjacent to areas of so ep . ann ng p instability, liquefaction areas, and steep process. slopes to determine if a significant constraint exists and to determine appropriate land use or hazard mitigation methods, and require compliance with any such measures identified. S1.l.1O Develop and adopt hillside grading standards to Planning Dept. Coordinate with the minimize the hazards of erosion anG slope Engineering Dept. to failure. develop standards. S2.2.i Require all development to comply with Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the applicable FAA regulations which affect development review development in the Accident Potential Zones. process. S2.2.2 Through the design review process, ensure that Planning Dept. Implement throu9ht the new buildings are located in a manner which will development review promote clear linear corridors through the process. developed area within any Accident Potential Zones, to create potential pilot options in the event of craft emergency. S2.2.3 Review and evaluate currently existing areas Planning Dept. Coordinate with the within the low altitude overflight area which Economic Development are occupied by incompatible uses, to determine Dept. to identify areas i the potential of the redevelopment process to and fund ng. convert those land uses to airport compatible uses. S2.3.l Coordinate with Los Angeles County Fire Planning Dept./ Develop data base as d i i f ti Department to develop a listing of all hazardous Fire Dept. s ma e n orma on waste generators that could affect City available. residents. -64- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAtION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE S2.3.2 Continue to support and encourage state, City Planning Dept. Cooperate with listed and county efforts to identify existing or agencies to identify previously existing hazardous waste generators hazardous waste or contaminated sites. generators. S2.3.3 Require that soils containing toxic or hazardous Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the substances be cleaned up to the satisfaction of development review the a9ency having jurisdiction, prior to the process or as sites are granting of any permits for new development, identified. S2.3.4 Restrict or prohibit land uses and activities Planning Dept. Implement through the that 9enerate excessive amounts of hazardous existing regulations materials or wastes that cannot beproperly contained in the zoning maintained or disposed. code. S2.3.5 Promote the routing of vehicles carrying Planning Dept./ Implement through the potentially hazardous materials along Traffic Engineer existing regulations transportation corridors that reduce the risk to contained in the zoning the public and sensitive environmental areas. code. Cooperate with regional agencies in developing such routing systems. S2.3.6 Require that all proposed hazardous waste Planning Dept. Implement through the facilities comply with AB2948 (Tanner existing regulations Legislation) and Chapter 9 Article 96 of the contained in the zoning Palmdale Zoning Ordinance, code. S2.3.7 Prepare and adopt a city-wide Hazardous Waste Planning Dept. Adopt a hazardous waste Management Plan consistent with the Los Angeles management plan pursuant County Hazardous Waste Management Plan, in order to state law. to ensure that local hazardous waste facilitr siting is compatible with local land use policy. -65- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CIT! OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE ASENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE S3.l..1 Ensure that there is not a reduction in Planning Dept./ Continue coordination effectiveness of emergency services as a result Fire Dept./ with Fire Dept. and of growth permitted through the implementation Sheriff's Dept. Sheriff's Dept. to en- of this plan. sure the maintenance of adequate service levels. S3.1.2 Develop and implement a plan in cooperation with Planning Dept./ Coordinate with service hospitals, schools, major businesses, utilities, R d C th h h d h i Emergency Services i providers according to i ' i e e ross, c urc es an ot er serv ce Coord nator C ty s current d saster providers to work together and train in preparedness plan. preparation for a coordinated response during a major event. S3.l.3 Periodically, but not less than annually, review i i Emergency Services Implement through the i emergency serv ce equ pment and shelters to th th d h Coordinator sions of the prov i ensure ey are a at equate to meet t e needs i saster preparedness d of chang ng land uses and development types. plan. S3.l.4 Consider the City's daytime and permanent l i i i Emergency Services Implement through the popu at on n determ ning emergency service Coordinator provisions of the i needs. saster preparedness d plan. 53.1.5 Require all residents to maintain visible and Planning Dept./ Initially require clearly legible signs and street numbers to h i Building and Safety/ i ' through the development i shorten t e response t me of emergency personnel. Sher ff s Dept./ rev ew process; use Fire Dept. public awareness infor- mation to ensure contin- ued compliance. S3.1.6 Require City staff to undergo regular disaster Emergency Services Continue existing preparedness training. Coordinator training efforts. S3.l.7 Maintain and implement the City's adopted Pl i dn Emergency Services i Continue implementation l f h an. D saster Prepare ess Coord nator e p an, o t -66- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGArION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE S4.2 Support the development and continued updating Emergency Services Implement through the f th i of public education programs on health and Coordinator ons o e provis d di safety. saster prepare ness plan. S4.2.1 Prepare and disseminate educational information Emergency Services Implement through the f th i to residents and businesses on preparin9 for Coordinator ons o e provis d di response to hazards of the area, including major saster prepare ness earthquake, floods, hazardous waste spills, plan. wildfire, etc. S42.2 Encourage and assist the school districts in Emergency Services Implement through the i i f th teaching children to respond appropriately in an Coordinator! prov s ons o e emergency, especially to situations unique to a School Districts disaster preparedness lan desert environment. Such training should be p . repeated regularly to ensure that each child knows what to do in case of heat stroke, snake bites, floods, earthquakes, etc. S4.2.3 Promote the use of water filtration systems at Emergency Services Encourage through point-of-delivery for acceptable water quality Coordinator public awareness. in emergency situations. Safety Element Public safety programs are aimed at mitigating Emergency Services Implement through the f th i i Implementation A M unacceptable risks where government action is ublic safety. Hazard elimination for necessar Coordinator e ons o prov s disaster preparedness easure p y means the removal of existing and potential plan. hazards. As this course is not always possible, precaution and preparedness are necessary. The public safety policies reconunend a number of programs that will reduce the loss of life, injury, and property damage in the event of a disaster. These programs focus on educating the public concerning the proper procedures for avoiding hazards; the need for increased emergency preparedness; and prevention or mitigation of existing and potential hazards. -67- ---PAGE BREAK--- TI{1 CITY OF PALMDALE GENE!AL £'LAt LtiROk{MENTAL IMPACT REPORT - :F2IERAL PLAN )4ITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE ASENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Emergency preparedness means the awareness of existing and potential hazards and the adoption of mitigation measures to preserve public health and safety. The City's policy is to give first priority to saving human lives, and to reduce property damage second. The Cit1i' also seeks to eliminate a hazard, reduce the risks if the hazard cannot be eliminated or avoided; but above all, to plan for any potential disasters. Criteria for the allocation of public funds for various safety pro9rams will determine i i l i B i i ies and facil tate mp ementat on. oth pr or t private and public funds and resources will be solicited for these programs. Safety Element The City will develop an inventorrof existing Building and Safety/ Develop a data base as Implementation hazardous buildings (structures highly Code Enforcement information is made Measure Al susceptible to earthquakes, flood, fire, and available. other hazards). Existing structures may be required to be improved up to current safety h f i occupancy or use codes before any c ange o s allowed. Safety Element The Cit will stud the need to develop a Building and Safety/ Coordinate with appro- Implementation relocation/demolition/rehabilitation program to lif d f Planning Dept./ H i P priate city depts. to r ram and set d l Measure A2 e an remove or reduce threats to sa ety ous n9 rogram op p og eve associated with known hazardous structures. All Administrator priorities for rehab- available funding resources will be pursued to ilitation. implement this program. If necessary, relocation assistance will be provided for dependent populations that may presently occupy these buildings. Safety Element The City Engineering Geolo9ist will evaluate the City Geologist Implement throu'h the Implementation need for a geoloqic investigation for proposed f t ti l l i d l ith development review rocess Measure A3 in areas o po en a geo og c eve opment w p . hazards. Geologic investigations will be required to include assessment of soil stability, susceptibility to geologic hazards in the area (includin9 distance to nearest fault), and any other conditions which, as determined by the Engineering Department, may affect structural foundations. -68- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN )4ITIGAION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Safety Element The City will review all new development for Building and Safety/ Implement throu9h the Implementation compliance with construction and land use i ft th k fi di Planning Dept. development review r Measure A4 re, a rcra ng ear qua e, standards regar i f p ocess. ct en orcement accident, and other hazards. Str of building codes and develoment standards shall be maintained with modifications granted only if no risks to life and property are involved. Safety Element The City has established special study zones in Planning Dept. Zones will be in place Implementation known hazardous areas (earthquake fault zones, with adoption of the Measure A5 flood hazard areas, and areas of steep slopes) General Plan. in order to identify the need for indepth studies before allowing development within these areas (See Exhibit LU-4.) The construction of high density uses and critical structures on hazardous sites will be limited as required by California state law and City ordinances. Safety Element The City will offer training programs for people Emergency Services i Implement through the i i f h Implementation interested in volunteerin9 during emergency i Coord nator prov s ons o t e di d Measure A6 ng preparedness/response activities so that dur saster prepare ness major disasters, these volunteers are organized plan. and prepared. This program will allow the City to reach out to residents and inform them of ways they can prepare and help others during disasters. The program could also provide additional manpower to City and County agencies in abating or responding to an emergency. Safety Element Public officials will be encouraged to attend Emergency Services Implement through the h i i Implementation seminars dealing with emergency management. ill id th Cit i d l d Coordinator ons of t e prov s re aredness disaster Measure Al ers w prov e e y Better tra ne ea p p with the best knowledge to deal with emergency plan. situations. The City will ensure that emergency service providers are competently trained and have adequate resources to respond to the demands of a major disaster. -69- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT REFERENCE Safety Element The City will develop programs for public Emergency Services Implement through the Implementation information and the education of residents and Coordinator provisions of the Measure A8 businesses on earthquake safety, hazardous disaster preparedness materials, aircraft accident, fire prevention, plan. flood hazards, crime, dam inundation, geologic hazards, and other issues for which prevention measures may decrease the potential for personal injury and property damage. Safety Element Implementation Measure A9 The Ci4r has adopted an Emergency Preparedness Plan which identifies emergency responses and recovery operations for disaster occurrences affecting the City. The City will update those procedures at least every five years to accommodate growth and changing situations and to reinforin responsible agencies of their specific roles. Resource listings within the City Emergency Preparedness Plan will be updated annually. The City's emergency plan includes disaster recovery programs and reconstruction standards and measures as well as the following information. • Evacuation Procedures/Routes--The City will coordinate with the Office of Emergenc Services, the Sheriff's Department, an local fire stations in establishin9 evacuation procedures in the Planning Area. Exhibit S-i identifies major streets which may serve as evacuation routes. • Emergency Drills--The City's Disaster Preparedness Coordinator will conduct drills each year. These drills will keep both public and private agencies informed of general safet' procedures and individual responsibilities. Also, emergency training exercises with state and regional agencies shall be conducted. • Monitoring and Warning System--The City will continually review its warning and public information system, which will facilitate communication during disasters. The public shall be informed of these warning systems to allow prompt and timely responses. Emergency Services Coordinator Implementation is on- going. Review and update the plan as needed. -70- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED • Resource Listing--The City will update its list of resources and individual responsibilities every year to maintain emergency preparedness. Safety Element Various natural and man-made disasters could Emergency Services Implementation is on- Implementation affect the residents of Palmdale. Potential Coordinator going through continued Measure MO disasters include a major earthquake, hazardous efforts of the emergency materials incident, flooding, dam failure, services coordinator. national security emergency, transportation incident, and major fires in either the wildland or urban areas. In the event of a disaster, local officials and the emergency preparedness A l i i nte ope th the on w coordinator, in conjunct Valley Chapter of the Red Cross need to assess the requirements for mass shelter nd feeding. The City's Emar9ency Preparedness Coordinator has the responsibility for organizing an emergency response plan as required by the State Thi OES) i s . ces ( Office of Emergency Serv multi-hazard emergency plan addresses the City's preparedness response, recovery, and mitigation in the event of an emergency. The City's plan designates the Red Cross as the official disaster relief agency and arranges for other organizations, such as the Salvation Army to assist in disaster relief efforts. Besides developing the City's multi-hazard dness emergency plan, the emergency prepare coordinator is also responsible for locating suitable facilities for shelter and makin9 arrangements with the owners of these facilities for use in the event of a disaster. Such ideal facilities are schools, as they are public facilities and can accommodate a large number of people. Additionally, churches and commercial d h tels t l h ili i o as mo e s an es suc t lodging fac d d l d as nee e . oye could be emp The Antelope Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross is responsible for opening and managing mass care facilities. In the event of a major disaster, there may be an extended delay period of time before the American Red Cross can respond. In the interim, the Director of Emergency Services will: -71- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CIT! OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN )4ITIGA2ION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE 1. Implement the City's disaster response procedure. 2. Authorize the City's staff to open shelters under the auspices of the American Red Cross. Safety Element The City will continue its mutual aid agreements Emergency Services Continue coordination Implementation with other agencies. The City coordinates Coordinator/ with the Fire Dept. and Measure All emergency services in the Planning Area and Fire Dept. other a9encies as within the re9ion with various county agencies, appropriate to ensure the State Office of Emergency Services, and the provi8ion of adequate Federal Emergency Management Agency for emergency services. responses to disasters that involve the region, state, or nation. City services are also available for mutual aid to jurisdictions. Safety Element I l t ti The City will apply for programs and funds from t t f d l d i l i h l Emergency Services Implement through the mp emen a on s a e, e era , an re9 ona agenc es to e p Coordinator/ provisions of the Measure Al2 provide relocation assistance, emergency Finance Dept. disaster preparedness management, relief goods, post-disaster plan. reconstruction programs, and emergency housing when needed. Safety Element The City may conduct collection of household Public Works Dept./ Implement through the Implementation hazardous waste from residential areas for Planning Dept. provisions contained in Measure Al3 proper disposal in nearby facilities on at least the adopted Solid Waste an annual basis, and more frequently if deemed Management element. necessary. Safety Element The City will prepare a hazardous waste Planning Dept. Adopt a hazardous waste Implementation management elan that will assure that hazardous management plan pursuant Measure Al7 waste facility sites and adjacent land uses are to state law. compatible with existing developments and that hazardous materials and wastes are stored, used, transported, treated, and disposed of properly. This plan will be adopted and implemented in accordance with state law. Through the development review process, risk management and prevention plans will be required for facilities using or producing hazardous materials and wastes, in accordance with state -72- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE guidelines and the City's adopted Hazardous Waste Management Plan. Safety Element Through the review of site plans, conditional Planning Dept. Implement throuth the Implementation use permits, and other development applications, development review rocess Measure A18 the City will enforce the standards for p . floodplain development, hazardous waste facilities and materials, seismic safety, fire prevention and protection, and law enforcement. Safety Element The City will revise and update its zoning Planning Dept. Implement as soon as Implementation ordinance to incorporate implementation measures feasible after adoption Measure A21 in accordance with this Element of, the General of the General Plan. Plan. Safety Element The City will enforce its building and seismic Building and Safety Continue requiring Implementation safety codes. The City's building and seismic compliance of all Measure A22 codes provide minimum standards for the new and existing devel-. construction of habitable structures. These oment with appropriate standards ensure the structural stability and city codes. safety of all developments. The Building and Safety Department reviews all construction plans for compliance with codes prior to development. The City's Code Enforcement section responds to citizens concerns regarding unsafe structures, and requires abatement of code violations. Safety Element The City will implement CEQA requirements for Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Implementation new development and for capital improvement development review and Measure A23 projects. CEQA requires evaluation of potential fl d i i CEQA processes. oo , sm c, impacts to public safety from se fire, risk of upset (spills, explosions, etc.), and other factors. Safety Element The City will provide data on known hazards in Planning Dept. Develop a data base as tion is made i f Implementation Measure A26 the Planning Area for public review. This information will increase community awareness n orma available. and personal preparedness for residents and businesses. -73- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN MITIGAIZON MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE Safety Element The City will coordinate with Los Ancjeles County Planning Dept. Continue coordination Implementation and the City of Lancaster in addressing public with listed agencies Measure A27 safety issues which affect the Antelope Valley, as necessary to achieve such as traffic, crime, air pollution, and water desired reductions. resource issues. Safety Element The City will enforce public safety standards in Building and Safety/ Implement through the Implementation reviewing development proposals, and in land use Plaunin9 Dept./ development review Measure B planning. These standards protect future Engineering Dept. process. developments from natural and man-made hazards and provide benchmarks for achieving the goals and objectives listed in Section 2. Other standards, such as minimum street widths and peak water loads, are required by the state code. Standards for streets are discussed in the implementation section of the circulation Element. Safety Element Construction and development standards contained Building and Safety/ Continue requiring full Implementation in the Zoning and Building codes include: Engineering Dept. compliance with all city Measure Bi codes. • Engineered construction must comply with the Uniform Building Code requirements for seismic zones. • Emergency facilities and sites with explosives and toxic materials must adhere to more restrictive seismic safety construction. • Emergency facilities shall be set back from known hazard areas (earthquake fault zones, aircraft crash zones, and flood plains). • Critical use structures must conduct geologic/seismic hazards studies before construction, and implement appropriate construction techniques. Safety Element The City has established hillside development Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Implementation standards to prevent landslide and erosion development review Measure B2 hazards and to preserve natural grades and process. scenic views, through the recent adoption of the Hillside Management Ordinance addressing the following issues: -74- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED • The maximum angle of manufactured slopes. • The maximum height of a manufactured slopes. • Fire retardant construction, materials, design and landscaping. • Maintenance of natural drainage to the extent practical, consistent with the Master Drainage Plan. • Establishment of maximum street grades. Safety Element New projects and land use requests should be Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Implementation reviewed for conformance with the. intent of the development review Measure B5 Joint Land Use Committee (JLUC) policies. The process. JLUC policies related to safety are as follows: a. Land Use Within the Accident Potential Zones. Clear Zone. All of the Clear Zones are currently within the boundaries of Plant 42 and are not within the jurisdiction of either city (City of Palmdale or City of Lancaster) or the County. General Policies for the Accident Potential Zone (APZ). This Safety Element hereby incorporates by reference the FAA Part 77 Re9ulatxons and Tab No B-2 of the Master Plan Vicinity Map, Zoning Plan for Air Force Plant 42 for height regulations as they affect the air space around U.S. Air Force Plant 42. All development shall comely with applicable FAA regulations which affect development in these zones. The General Plan Land Use Element Hazard Zones Exhibit and the Safety Element Aircraft Crash Zones Exhibit have identified the areas which are included within the Accident Potential Zones. -75 ---PAGE BREAK--- ThL L OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT REFERENCE Open space uses which are low intensity and passive, such as Joshua tree and nature preserves shall be encouraged. Avigation easements shall be obtained wherever possible in this zone. Disclosure statements which declare that the property is located within the accident potential zone and is exposed to aircraft noise shall be required on the sale or transfer of property in this zone. Currently existing areas occupied by incompatible uses shall be examined to determine the potential of the redevelopment process to convert those land uses to airport compatible uses. (ii) New buildings shall be located in a manner which will promote clear linear corridors through the developed area to create potential pilot options in the event of an aircraft emergency. Accident Potential Zone 1. i. New residential uses shall not be approved in this zone. ii. Commercial uses shall be prohibited. iii. Industrial uses should be encouraged with the restriction that average employee density shall not exceed 25 persons per acre per hour and lot coverage by buildings shall not exceed thirty percent of the site. Accident Potential Zone 2. i. Residential uses should be discouraged but, if allowed, shall not exceed one dwelling unit/2.5 gross acres. ii. Commercial uses which do not draw large numbers of customers to the site shall be encouraged. Customer intensive retail operations are excluded. Average employee density should not exceed 25 persons per acre per hour. -76- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED iii. Industrial Uses should be encouraged with the restriction that average employee density shall not exceed 25 persons per acre per hour and lot coverage by buildings shall not exceed forty percent of the site. Safety Element l i The goals, objectives, and policies included in d th l i th f Planning Dept. The Land Use Map Imp ementat on M C ety an o er e ements prov de the e Sa f k f h d iti ti th h d considers public safet easure ramewor or azar s m ga on roug pru ent l d l i O f h f l concerns. The map wil an use p ann ng. ne o t e most power u be adopted with the tools for protecting public safety available in General Plan. Use the the General Plan process is the Land Use Map, development review which designates the appropriate location for process to condition the various types of development permitted in projects to comply with this plan. In areas where a signi$icant hazard public safety is present, the type of development permitted regulations. must reduce risks to an acceptable level. Land uses which would potentially handle hazardous materials/wastes shall not be located near residential areas, critical facilities, inunobile populations, and other areas as specified in the City's Hazardous Waste Management Plan. Flood hazard areas, aircraft crash zones, and the Alquist Priolo Special Studies Zone are shown on Exhibit LU-4. Unstable soils are shown in Exhibits S-9, S-b and S-li. New development must be protected from public i safety r sks and must not add to existing hazards. Development shall be limited in hazard areas as indicated above. -77- ---PAGE BREAK--- h THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Noise Element The City of Palmdale can achieve a noise Planning Dept. Land use planning, as h l d Implementation compatible environment through comprehensive shown on t e an use i id Measure A land use planning. Proposed developments are ers no se map, cons I l t ti i evaluated in terms of the projected impact from mp emen a on ssues. future noise sources and the application of the through the development City's objectives and policies. The City's review process will noise compatibility criteria by land use are ensure compliance with summarized in Table N-4 and are consistent with noise policies and/or both federal and state standards and regulations. guidelines. Proposed residential and other noise-sensitive projects impacted b' a 65 dBA i ddi l CNEL or greater would requ re a tiona acoustical analysis to achieve acceptable exterior noise levels. Acceptable interior noise levels of 45 dEA CNEL or less must also be achieved. For the City to achieve noise and land use compatibility, mitigation measures and/or restrictions should be imposed on future noise sensitive developments proposed within 65 dBA CNEL contours from transportation sources. The 45 dBA CNEL or less interior criteria for noise sensitive land uses must also be achieved. In addition, noise sensitive developments, proposed near existing stationary noise sources generating noise levels exceeding 65 dBA CNEL, should be discouraged. These goals are also served by encouraging the development of compatible land uses in areas subject to continuing noise exposure from stationary or transportation sources. It is not the goal of the City to render the development of any private property economically infeasible, l d l d uses are ocate but to ensure that an appropriately in terms of noise sensitivity and i h f ise env ronment. T ere ore, the surrounding no appropriate levels of protection for normally compatible uses have been established in consideration of the health and well-being of employees and the general public, as well as the need for the City to promote development uses on noise-affected properties which support the economic health and infrastructure of the entire community. -78- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT REFERENCE The City will require acoustical analysis resorts for those projects located within existing or future 60 dBA CNEL impact areas or as deemed necessary by the City. All acoustical analysis reports shall consider existing and future ambient and project related noise levels and shall be prepared by a qualified acoustical engineer with experience in environmental noise assessment and noise control design. Specifically, acoustical analysis reports shall include: Planning Dept. Noise Element Implementation Measure B • Existing ambient and roadway noise levels recorded by a calibrated noise monitor. • Roadway traffic noise level analysis models determining existing and future noise levels anticipated from proposed projects and related cumulative noise sources. • Noise contour maps. • Surrounding land uses with identification of sensitive noise receptors and noise sources. • Impacts of the project to the existing ambient noise environment. • Noise control measures where needed. • Cumulative impacts due to related projects. • Unavoidable adverse impacts to the project area. Acoustical analysis reports shall evaluate the impacts of the existing noise levels on the proposed project as well as the impact of the pro)ect on the existing noise environment. The Planning Department will evaluate projects to ensure that noise sensitive land uses, such as schools, hospitals, and residential developments, will not be located adjacent to sources of noise, when exceeding acceptable levels. Implement through the development review process. -.79- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATT ITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Where appropriate, the City will require acoustical analysis reports to include acoustical design for residential development adjacent to freeways or major arterials to hi i ac eve the appropr ate interior and exterior i l l i no se eve s through sound nsulation, or other means, as indicated in Table N-3. The Planning Department may require developments which will generate large congregations of people or maintain late nighttime hours to provide special mitigation measures, as indicated by the acoustical analysis. Noise Element I l i The City will adopt a noise ordinaice which is i l i Planning Dept./ Adopt noise ordinance mp ementat on compat b e w th state and federal standards. Buildin9 and Safety/ with, or immediately Measure C The ordinance will establish noise impact Sheriff's Dept. following, revision of thresholds for noise abatement and attenuation, the development code. in order to reduce potential health hazards associated with hi9h noise levels. Noise ordinances are typically directed at controlling noise from stationary sources and its intrusion onto adjacent properties. Enforcement of the noise ordinance would be an effective tool in controlling non-transportation noise sources. Noise from transportation sources is regulated by federal end state laws. The Department of Building and Safety, the Planning Department, and the Sheriff s Department will work cooperatively to enforce the noise ordinance. The noise ordinance may include policies addressing the following issues: • Lend use compatibility. • Restriction of hours of operation for construction equipment, power mowers, garbage collection, street sweeping, truck deliveries, leaf blowers, and other noise activities within the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless the work is made in response to an emergency or special purpose. -80- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED • Periodic investi9ation of noise sources throughout the City, with citations issued i i i nvest gat ons for offender, in addition to conducted due to such complaints. The Noise Ordinance shall set standards and penalties for violating the provisions contained therein. Penalties may range from warnings and monetary penalties to revocation of operating licenses for businesses. Noise Element The City will review all new development Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Implementation applications for conformance with the Joint Land development review Measure E Use Committee (JLUC) policies relatin9 to noise, process and continued as adopted by the Palmdale City on March coordination with the 6, 1991. The JLUC policies were developed f Cit f th ff i Air Force. y o orts o e nt e through the jo Palmdale, the City of Lancaster and the United States Air Force to address basic air installation land use compatibility issues. These policies relate to both noise and safety issues; the safety related policies appear in the Safety Element of the General Plan. 1. POLICIES TO GOVERN LAND USE WITHIN ThE 65 CNEL CONTOUR ARE AS FOLLOWS: a. The General Plan Noise Element Map shall identify the location of the 65 CNEL Contour for U. S. Air Force Plant 42. b. That land which currently has an industrial or commercial general plan designation shall not be changed to a residential or other incompatible use. c. That applications (zone change, General Plan Amendment, etc.) for land use changes which increase residential density shall not be approved. d. That existing residential land use designations shall be examined for potential redesignation to airport compatible designations. It should also be noted that this policy does not require that we re-designate any area, only that we look at the potential. -81- ---PAGE BREAK--- THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT e. That any developed or undeveloped property which is seeking a land use action from the City shall be conditioned to provide an avigation easement to the Los Angeles Department of Airports, the U.S. Air Force, and the City. f. Research and develop a means of obtaining avigation easements from all properties. g. That a Joint Air Force Plant 42/City of Los Angeles Department of Airports/City of Palmdale/City of Lancaster Part 150 Study shall be conducted to determine the need for soundproof ing of existing residential development, to make Plant 42 and the surrounding coimnunities mutually more compatible through use of FAA funding. h. Currently existing residential areas shall be examined to determine the potential of the redevelopment process to convert those land uses to airport compatible uses. i. That noise sensitive receptors shall be excluded (examples of noise sensitive receptors are hospitals and schools). j. That the development and zoning of residentially designated property shall be at the minimum density of the General Plan designation. 2. POLICIES TO GOVERN THE LAND USE FOR AREAS WHICH ARE OUTSIDE OF THE 65 CNEL CONTOUR BUT ARE FREQUENTLY OVERFLOWN BY AIRCRAFT AT LOW ALTITUDES FOR TAKE-OFF, LANDING, AND CLOSED PATTERN FLIGHT ACTIVITY. TYPICALLY, THIS LINE WOULD EXTEND AS FAR NORTH AS AVENUE K AND AS FAR SOUTH AS (the southern boundary of the Frequent Overflight Area is currently being reviewed by staff and the Air Force) PALMDALE BOULEVARD. THE EASTERLY BOUNDARY OF THE AREA WOULD EXTEND TO 85TH STREET EAST AND THE WESTERLY BOUNDARY WOULD BE 17TH STREET WEST AS SHOWN ON THE ATTACHED MAP. THESE RECOMMENDATIONS RECOGNIZE THAT EXISTING LAND USES WITHIN OVERFLIGHT AREAS MAY BE INCONSISTENT WITH THE GUIDELINES; HOWEVER, THE RECOMMENDATIONS REFLECT LONG-RANGE GOALS OF THE CITY AND THE AIR -82- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR THE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGATION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AOENCY ACTION REQUIRED FORCE FOR THAT AREA. THE RECOMMENDATIONS ARE AS FOLLOWS: a. That higher density residential uses shall be discoura9ed and that - in order of priority - industrial, commercial, and low density residential land use designations 1 du/ac or larger lots) shall be encouraged. b. That noise sensitive receptors shall be excluded (i.e. hospitals and schools). c. Currently existing areas which are occupied by incompatible uses shall be examined to determine the potential of the redevelopment process to convert those land uses to airport compatible uses. d. That the General Plan shall designate this low altitude overflight area on the General Plan Land Use Map. e. That lend which currently has an industrial or commercial general plan designation shall not be changed to a residential or other airport incompatible use. f. That any developed or undeveloped property which is seeking a land use action from the City shall be conditioned to provide an avigation easement to the Los Angeles City Department of Airports, the U.S. Air Force, and the City. g. Research and develop a means of obtaining avigation easements from all properties within this area. JLUC Ex1ea Cu8t9.er Intensive USeB - Customer intensive retail operations would include grocery stores, drug stores, convenience stores, theaters, shopping centers, department stores, and similar uses. Low Cutomer Intensive Uses - Low customer intensive uses would include nurseries, lumber yards, contractor yards, warehousing, mini storage and similar uses. -83- ---PAGE BREAK--- TILE CIrY OF PAiMDALk. ,k.HERAL 1L1AA A.tVA.1Wk4MM4iAL IMPACT kEPORT (,NICAL PLAN REFERENCE MITIGkflON MEASURE ESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED Noise Element The Cit shall support the Airport Land Use Planning Dept. Implement through Implementation M Commission of Los Angeles County in planning for adoption of the land use easure F appropriate land uses around USA? Plant 42 th h i ' map. roug cons stency of the City s General Plan with the County's Comprehensive Airort Land Use Plan. This implementation measure is further discussed in Section 3 of the Safety Element. Noise Element The City shall coordinate with appropriate Planning Dept. Coordinate with listed Implementation M agencies and developers to reduce unnecessary agencies to reduce noise easure G noise in the vicinity of noise-sensitive where feasible. Use locations through the following actions: the development review • Maintain liaison with transportation process as a basis for coordination efforts. agencies, such as Caltrans, regardin9 the reduction of noise from existing facilities and roadways. The design and location of facilities and roadways shall also be considered. • Maintain liaison with Los An9eles County Health Department to update information on the effects and impacts of noise pollution on humans. • Consider noise as a priority factor in evaluating residential or other noise-sensitive projects. Building orientation and configuration should be utilized to minimize or eliminate noise problems for a sites adjacent to the freeway, arterials, or rail lines. Additional effective noise reduction tools include the use of earthen berms, sound reducing walls, and generous setbacks. • Maintain a liaison with the Southern Pacific rail line to reduce the level of noise produced by train movement within the City, through the regular maintenance of the tracks and trains. Monitor the existing operations on the rail line, as well as any plans for future development so as to predict future noise levels. -84- ---PAGE BREAK--- MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR TEE CITY OF PALMDALE GENERAL PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT GENERAL PLAN )4ITIGArION MEASURE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY ACTION REQUIRED REFERENCE • Enforce regulations, such as the State Vehicle Code noise standards, for City owned and City operated vehicles. Noise Element The City will maintain a map of receptors and Planning Dept. Create data base as Implementation sources in the Planning Area for new development information is made Measure H in order to anticipate and/or avoid incompatible available. land uses. Acoustical analysis reports will be required to incorporate the receptor and source map in the report on a smaller scale. Noise Element The City will require developments to implement Planning Dept. Implement throu9h the Implementation noise control measures during construction, development review Measure I Acoustical design shall include measures to process. control noise at the source, along the transmission path or at the receptor. -85- ---PAGE BREAK--- EXHIBIT E CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS TO THE GENERAL PLAN TEXT ---PAGE BREAK--- CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS TO THE GENERAL PLAN TEXT (Page 1 of 16) Through the course of City Council public hearings, a number of policy and implementation measures were revised. The following represents the revised text. LAND USE ELEMENT Policy L1.2.5.g: Annexation of any area which is within! Objective Ll.2: Implement AS5f annexation policies, that promote logical and orderly boundaries, respond to community concerns, and minimize fiscal impacts to the City. Policy L1.3.3: Through the development review process, evaluate proposals with respect to their impacts on adjacent properties, including their impacts on existinI uses of those properties, and require that projecti designs employ appropriate techniques to increase compatibility between uses. Policy L1.4.1.c: land designated extraction areas adequate buffers quarry operators where feasible When for less intensive uses abuts mineral! , the responsibility for providing should be borne equitably by both and i1fil//adiacent__developers, based upon existing conditions and existing approvals. size is 7,000 square feet, unless otherwise specified in an approved specific elan or residential planned development offering a variety of lot sizes, housjnq types, and public amenities, a senior housing project, or other approved development plan. The Medium Resident ial desig nation is approvriate within those areas having exis ting or planned residential uses at 6.1 to 10 units per acre, which are or will be served by adeguate infra structure and services needed to suort this level of deve lopment. Maximum permittedj density will be determined throuah the development review process, based upon environmental pndj infrastructural cond itions. Equest rian and large animal! uses are not intended wi thin this d istrict. Policy L3.2.6: Require disclosure, as deemed appropriate, on roosed residential developments which are affected by existing conditions such as. but not limited to, noise, dust, odors. light, seismic hazards, and frequent overflight of aircraft. ma include single family detached, single family attached, townhouses, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, apartments. or manufactured housing developments. planning area as of January, 1993. In order to provide ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 2 of 16 a. Standards for Maintenance: b. Conversion Standards and Procedures: sold. iv) The ProPonent of the roosed conversion shall recipient in meeting costs of relocation, higher I rents for replacement mobilehome park spaces and/or I the added cost of a replacement mobilehome. I c. Evaluation of Current/Future Land Use Designation and Zonin i) When reviewing a roosed mobile home park conversion, the City should evaluate t he exis ting and roosed zoning and land use designa tions of the site of the roos ed conversion to ensure that future use of the site is compatibl e with the surroundina area. The City Council ma initiate a General Plan Amendment and Zone Chanae on the site if deemed necessary to ensure that futur e use of the roertv mee ts Gene ral Plan goals, obi ectives and policies. Policy L3.3.5: Require a Conditional Use Permit, or the parks to other uses shall apply: health, safety and welfare. Unsafe conditions shall be romtl repaired. prescribed in the aroved plan for the park. iii) The roonent of the roosed conversion shall provide all owners of individual mobilehomes within shall be consistent with all zoning code requirements for mobilehome parks. Planned unit developments or subdivisions. Through the approval process, alv the following standards for development: ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 3 of 16 _ c. Create unit privacy and individuality by use of varied unit footprints; d. Provide functional and accessible common open space; e. Provide functional and defined private yard soace to each mobilehome unit; f. Utilize curvilinear streets, short street segments, cul-de-sacs. or a combination thereof as ovosed to long, narrow alley-like drives; g. IncorPorate landscape islands and street trees on private interior streets and drives; h. Vary aaraae and unit setbacks; j. Provide auest parking, distributed throughout the proj ect; 1. Screen recreational vehicle storaae and buffer those areas from adjacent residential uses; k. Provide at least two means of public access to mobi lehome communities: 1. Provide sidewalks on at least one side of private drives and streets, and ensure that the internal pedestrian walkway system connects logically to off-site walkways to provide convenient access to schools, parks, and commercial areas; m. Provide an enclosed aarae to each unit. with an adeguate setback to allow tandem parking in front of the garage. n. Provide trash enclosure areas, roverlv screened, throuahout the park within a reasonable distance from each unit. p. For ated communities, provide adeguate guesti parking and stacking room at project entrances. p. Provide adeauate setbacks between the park and adjacent residential designations, with adeguate screening through a combination of landscaping, walls, berms., trails, or other means. Policy L3.5.5: Require that development is designed to be sensitive to the preservation and protection pf the desert environment and that buildina orientation and design consider and complement the natural characteristics of the desert environment. Policy L4.1.1 d: Regional Commercial: The Regional Commercial (RC) designation is designed to accommodate retail and service uses attracting consumers from a regional market a mr.R rrrvui l,tl 4-u-ni r.l lu- 1 rnr1_+-rm 4 ri nature, rather than convenience gpp. Representative uses include department stores, regional shopping malls, automobile dealerships, hotel/motels, and large retail Supportive commercial uses serving a community outlets. oriented to the convenience market. Regional commerciall uses should be accessible via major arterial streets or freeways. Total development area within regional commercial designations typically ranges from 40 to 100 acres or more although individual I ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 4 of 16 V Darcels. Maximum floor area ratio is 1.0. Site design ofi regional centers should consider pedestrian needs and internal circulation that minimizes impacts on adjacent arterials. b) Regui re that nodes of commercial devel opment intended to serve primar ily a neig hborhood service function be spaced at no c lose r than one -half mile f rom other commercial design ati ons. Policy L7.13: Adopt policies for approximately 100 QI acres located east of the Antelope Valley Freeway, approximately 440 feet north of Avenue S, west of 5th Street East and south of Avenues R-8 and R-12, which is designated as "Business Park" on the Land Use Map, to ensure that future businesses uses in this area will present an attractive visual appearance from the freeway and adjacent properties, and that development is sensitive to the physical, environmental and land use constraints in the area, as follows: a. A master plan shall be prepared for the entire 100 ±I acres prior to issuance of subsequent entitlement permits for individual parcels within the subject area. Policy L4..2,15: Develop design criteria and developmentf standards to ensure that commercial develonments aret ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 5 of 16 b. A Conditional Use Permit or equivalent entitlement shall be required for all development within the subject area. c. A].1 future development shall comply with the following architectural standards to ensure that development is low profile, well integrated with the natural topography, and utilizes appropriate architectural elements and materials: 1. Building design should incorporate similar materials, form, and architectural details on all elevations to present a unified appearance. 2. To the extent feasible, building heights should be minimized through creative grading techniques such as partial subterranean designs to reduce above ground height of buildings when viewed from lower lying areas. 3. Building materials and colors should be chosen that enhance blending with the natural terrain. Highly reflective materials are discouraged. d. Building heights shall be in accordance with underlying zone district requirements, however, in no event shall building heights exceed two stories or 35 feet in height as measured from the highest adjacent grade. e. All landscaped areas and the future park site shall be improved and maintained by the developer or successors interest. f. The developer or successor in interest will be responsible for retention and protection of natural vegetation in non-graded areas. g. Parking areas should be screened from lower lying areas through use of berms, landscaping, or similar measures. Landscape plan concepts for parking lot areas should emphasize creation of a tree canopy by providing tree wells between parking spaces at appropriate intervals. Policy L7.1.4: Ensure that development within the areaf enerallv located north of Avenue S-4, west of the A.V.f Freeway (also known as the Anaverde Hills) is compatib) with and complimentary to existing development by requiring I that future subdivisions provide a minimum 1 acre net loti area. Policy L7.1.5: On the Land Use Map, establish a land use designation that may be utilized in areas of the City currently lacking urban services but where future development may be anticipated upon establishment of plans for infrastructure and related development issues as defined below: Special Development Designation The Special Development (SD) designation is appropriate for areas which merit focused planning efforts to ensure orderly and logical development in accordance with General Plan policies. The SD designation is placed upon areas which, due to lack of infrastructure and public services, topography, environmental sensitivity, and development constraints, require comprehensive planning prior to development which goes beyond the level of detail normally associated with the General Plan. This planning could be accomplished through the Specific Plan process, although other methods may be acceptable if they provide the following: 1) A detailed implementation program, including facility phasing and funding; 2) carefully prescribed balance of development and open space within a planning area, in an economically feasible manner; 3) special regulations that are responsive to unique local conditions; and 4) necessary flexibility for long range planned community projects. ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 6 of 16 densities and the location and intensity of commercial uses are to be determined based upon a site's capacity to accomodate the proposed development, considering such factors as availability of urban services; adequacy of existing and proposed roads to service the proposed densities; physical constraints, including slopes, drainage courses, faults, or similar features; compatibility with adjacent land uses; or other requirements of development, as identified through the review process. In no instance shall the density range established for this designation be interpreted as a guarantee of permitted density. Upon preparation, review and adoption of one or more comprehensive Specific Plans or similar comprehensive plan:i. document(s) for property within this designation, higher residential density and the location and intensity of I supvortive commercial uses may be established based upon environmental, topographic, and infrastructural capacity of the land as defined by supporting documentation. With approval of such Specific Plan or comprehensive planning studies, a General Plan Amendment may be approved to amend the land use designation as determined appropriate pursuant to those studies. Policy L7.l.9: Ensure that development within the Southwest Special Development Planning Area occurs in a logical and orderly pattern, and provides for timely and economical provision of infrastructure, compatibility with existing neighborhoods, sensitivity to environmental and topographic constraints, and establishment of proper buffering around the landfill, by requiring the following area-wide planning and infrastructural studies: a. Urban development should not occur within the Southwest Special Development Area until area-wide plans establishing backbone infrastructure and carrying capacities of the area are completed to the satisfaction of the City, including road, sewer, water and drainage improvements. b. Infrastructure plans shall contain an analysis and establishment of municipal facility needs for the area, including, but not limited to, parks, schools, libraries, maintenance yards, public trails and greenbelts, satellite police and fire stations, or similar facilities deemed necessary as a result of urban development within the Southwest Special Development Area. c. A method for financing infrastructural and facility needs shall be established that equitably allocates costs among property owners who will benefit from these improvements. d. Alignments of streets and arterials serving a regional function shall be established to the extent feasible, including but not limited to Avenue S and City Ranch Road. e. Plans for sewer line extensions to the area shall provide for gravity flow systems, to the extent feasible. f. Development within hillside canyon areas shall provide adequate means of ingress and egress, with secondary access required. g. Compatible residential land use designations shall be established adjacent to existing residential neighborhoods. Other than single family dwellings on existing lots, jgg ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 7 of 16 h. Land use designations shall be established that provide a minimum 1000 foot buffer between the ultimate landfill boundaries and residential uses. i. Significant ridges within the highly visible upper elevations of Verde Ridge and the Sierra Pelona foothills shall be preserved as natural open space. 1. Market feasibility studies and locational analysis shall be provided to determine appropriateness of materials that are native to the site; uses such as concrete and asphalt batching, which reauire import of raw materials, are not acceptable. activities. order to reduce impacts aenerated by truck traffic. I such as noise and safety concerns1 which affect nearbyl residents. Policy ER4.2.4: Coordinate with local water agencies to monitor around water levels. State water allocations and development approvals, to assure that development does not outace long-term water availability. In the event applicable water agencies notify the City that around water levels and State water allocations are insufficient to serve existing development or roectrf develoment, the City eillj determine whether it is appropriate to reevaluate this General Plan and take other appropriate actions. as oermitted by law. Goal ER8: Avoid the premature conversion of aaricultural lands to urban uses. the planning area. transportation network. Design of any commerciall facilities shall be compatible with the overall community design theme. Policy L7.1.10: Within the Mineral Resource Extraction ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 8 of 16 Policy ER8.1; Encouraae the rese rvat jpn of agricultu ral l ands in non-u rban areas and as an inter im u se whe re urban development is not ant icipa ted for s ever al yea rs. Policy ER8.2: Preserve agricultural uses as a means of retaining aquifer recharae both naturally and through treated water sources. Implementation Measures C. City Development Code The City will formulate and adopt by ordinance a comprehensive Development Code, containing standards for all aspects of land development and land use including site design, use compatibility, access, parking and circulation, lot sizes and dimensions and other development regulations designed to ensure public health, safety and welfare. The Development Code will establish zone districts that are consistent with land use designations in the General Plan Land Use Element. In addition, the Code will address the following specific development issues which have been addressed in various General Plan policies and objectives: 1. Signs 2. Hillside development 3. Dependent housing units 4. Accessory buildings in residential zones 5. Condominium conversions 6. MZZ///W//,tz5ti Mobilehome p ark anal subdivision standards. including provisions rearding mobilehome Park conversions and on-going maint enance 7. Rural development standards (including street improvements and street lighting) 8. Subdivisions 9. Zoning for mineral resource extraction areas 10. Minimum residential standards 11. Development standards for Mixed Use-Transition al areas 12. Development standards for the Downtown Overlay District In conjunction with the comprehensive Development Code, the City will revise and update its zone districts and adopt a permanent Zoning Map superseding the interim zoning map referenced above. I. Annexations The City will evaluate fiscal, infr impacts of proposed annexations to the desires of inhabitants within the requirements of any adote District, and consider these issues future annexations. L. Economic Development The City will suPPort - R structural and land use the City, as well as, these areas, including a Community Standards I in making decisions oni Q. Nobilebome Park Conversion Ordinance relocation fee, the purchase of non-relocatable units which ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 9 of 16 vicinity of the park. P. Cotanunitv Desian The City will develop and adovt aCornrnunitv Design Element Added Table LU-5 CIRCULATION ELEMENT Goals, Policies and Obiectives Policy C1.2.5: In order to maintain the efficiency, effectiveness and safety of Pearblossom Highway, a corridor b. Where practical, intersections should be arade separated. p. Intersection designs should include provision of I right-turn lanes and double left-turn lanes. Free flow right-turn lanes shall be used at arterial intersections to the extent practical. e. Lane widths should be no less the 12 feet and the median should be 30 feet in width or more where feasible. f. Consideration for pedestrian and non-motorized vehicle safety shall be incorporated into the design. Features to be considered may include grade separations, setback of facilities from the roadway, and restriction of crossings. g, The design shall incorporate aesthetic features and positive advance guide signing." Implementation Measures 0. Truck Routes The City will evaluate the Municipal Code periodically to determine the adeauacv of existing designated truck routes I and to address the need for modified truck routes withinj various areas of the City. Amended Exhibit LU-6 side of the Antelope Valley. features such as the following: c. Direct driveway and local or collector street access should be minimized. Direct access should be avoided if alternative access is available; maximum driveway spacing (aenerallv 400 feet or more spacing between driveways) ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 10 of 16 Westside Transportation Corridor designation of a regional north-south transDortation corridor within the west side of the Antelope Valley. L. Pearbiossom Highway ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE ELEMENT goals. Policies and Obiectives Policy ER2.l.l: The following broadly defined areas, shown on the Overlay Map and Exhibit ER-5, will be designated as a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) overly on the General Plan Land Use Map: Big Rock Wash, Little Rock Wash, Ritter Ridge, Portal Ridge and Alpine Butte. Biological surveys should be performed to determine the nature and extent of their ecological significance prior to any approval of new developments within the overlay area. Any development permitted in these areas must consider significant environmental resources and preserve environmental resources to the extent feasible. 1QLLQiLIiLL WJ.,.U.LLL LL1 l•I1LiUP viiey DV promoting and encouraging planning for the conservation and managed use of water resources, including groundwater, imported water, and reclaimed water. Policy ER4.3.1: Assess the feasibility of utilizing reclaimed water for landscape irrigation on a city-wide quantities or reclaimed water as determined by the Sanitation Districts, and costs associated with develpingI infrastructure and delivery systems to facilitatej utilization, Within those areas in which it is determined to be feasible to utilize reclaimed water, consider establishment of an ordinance requiring installation of secondary water delivery systems to service landscaped areas.I Policy ER4.3.4: Encourage residents and businesses to and/or businesses, to an Expressway. Policy ER1.1.8: Cooperate with Drivate and public entities process, ensure that important recharge areas are retained for that use. Policy ER4.3.3: Continue to seek out long-range water ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 11 of 16 Policy ER4.3.5: Participate in regional efforts to retaiiI imported water allocations and seek out other sources! they become available. I Objective ER6.1: Recognize the regional importance of the classified and designated mineral deposits within Palmdale's Planning Area (as described in Special Report 143, Part vj Classification of Sand and Gravel Resource Areas,I Saugus-Newhall production-Consumption Region and Palmdalel Raion. and DesianatiorhBePOrt No. Resource Areas in the Sauaus-Newhall and Palmdal Production-Consumption Regions and as shown on Exhibits ER-lA and ER-1B) and discourage encroachment of incompatible land uses which could threaten the long-term viability of sand and gravel mining and processing operations in the Little Rock Wash area. Policy ER7.1.6: Cooperate with private and public entities whose coals are to protect and preserve historic landmarks and i mportant cultu ral resources . Implementation Measures H. Mining Standards In accordance with the provisions of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) and subsequent amendments, the City of Palmdale has adopted an ordinance implementing mineral resource management policies. Mining within designated aggregate resource areas requires approval of a conditional use permit (CUP) before operations begin. The CUP shall be granted for a period of time as specified by the Planning Commission with renewals approved by the Planning Commission. In addition, renewal of the CUP is dependent on the success of proposed mitigation measures for residual hazards. The ordinance also requires a reclamation plan for returning the site to reusable condition following cessation of mining operations. State environmental regulations require ongoing monitoring of operations to ensure adequate mitigation of adverse impacts. The City has developed standards for mining activity in the Planning Area in conjunction with the Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) land use (Exhibit LU-2). Mineral resource extraction is appropriate in these areas, as along as it complies with the following conditions: 1. Approval of a reclamation plan in compliance with the state Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA), as amended, and City regulations. 2. Standards for development in areas adjacent to the MRE designations require that all new residential, commercial or industrial development provide buffering from quarrying operations that will conform to policies contained in the General Plan relating to noise, dust control, traffic or other impacts identified through the environmental review process. Where the Mineral Resource Extraction (MRE) land use designation is adjacent to existing or approved but unbuilt development, the responsibility for buffering impacts of quarry operations shall be upon the quarry operator. Where the MRE designation is adjacent to vacant land which has no approvals for development, the responsibility for buffering shall be shared by the future developer of the vacant property. In all cases, concentrated noise generators shall require buffering from the boundaries of the MRE designation to mitigate noise impacts on adjacent uses. ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 12 of 16 3. One of the Mineral Resource Extraction area covers a major groundwater recharge area and there exists a potential for groundwater contamination; thus, mining is not permitted below the groundwater level or to a level as determined through environmental analysis. 4. Noise impacts must be minimized by ensuring that the noise level at the property line is 65 dBA CNEL or less, when noise-sensitive uses or designations abut the quarry. 5. Mining areas must be fenced with a 6-foot view obstructing fence, wall, or landscaped berm along public streets or adjacent to residential areas. 6. Use of asphalt and petroleum-based materials, or other operations which may impair groundwater quality, in the øtt#///ttr///,&t,.tMt,t Mineral Resourcej Extraction designation are prohibited, unless substantial evidence is provided to demonstrate that such uses will not have significant impact on groundwater or other resources. 7. Safety measures for routine operations shall be established prior to permit approval. 8. As the Little Rock Wash MRE area may potentially contain sensitive ecological habitat, and has been indicated on the General Plan Land Use map as Significant Ecological Area (SEA) overlay zone, appropriate steps shall be taken to identify, and protect any significant flora and fauna. 9. All mining operations in the Little Rock Wash area shall incorporate flood plain management provisions into their operations. Add Exhibit ER-lb Add Exhibit ER-lO PUBLIC SERVICES ELEMENT Goals, Policies and Objectives Policy PS1.1.5: When new development is proposed in vacant, rural areas which have not yet been master planned for provision of infrastructure, require that development proponents provide for or contribute a fair share towards development of regional master facility plans for roads, sewer, water, drainage, schools, libraries, parks, fire and.I other community facilities, prior to granting conditionall approval of development applications. Policy PS1.6.1: Through adoption of an ordinance, regulate utility line and other utility infrastructure placement and require undergrounding I ZfZIZ i5,i where feasible. Policy PS2.1.1: Require new development to obtain adequate water service to meet the increased Rtr1 service needs I generated by that development. Policy PS2.1.3: Promote water conservation and long-term water management in all phases of development planning and construction through the policies and implementation measures contained in the Environmental Resources Element. Policy PS4.1.4: Condition approvals of development projects to meet the funding requirements of applicable school districts to the extent permitted by law. On legislativej decisions such as zone changes or General Plan Amendments, I ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 13 of 16 Policy PS4.2.l: Cooperate with other jurisdictions and public or private agencies to work towards establishment oft a four-year college or university in the Antelope Valley. Policy PS5.6.3: Promote provision of P li?//fIc/rI/a fulli range of public services within the Civic Center plan area, including library, cultural center, sheriff's station, fire station, and City Administration. Ob-iect ive PS7 Ensure that any land ro osed t o be acqu ir ed, ded icat ed or mainta ined by the City wi ll cont ri bute benefits to the aene ra l public, and that s hor t- and long- term impacts of accep ti ng respons ibili ty for such land a re adeau atelv eva luated bY the C ity. a. Natural Open Sace /Trails/Parkla nd: The o roosed dedication of land o r easements for the ur ose of naturalj open space, trails., or arkland to t he City should bet ev aluated based on the following criteria : 1. The open s pace, t rails and/or arkla nd dedication should se rve the open space/recre ational needs of the City, rather than the more localiz ed benefit of a sing le ne ighborho od. 2. Other res ponsib le agencies or lan d trusts should be co nsidered as an alternative to outright ded ication of open sp ace to the City. In these instance s, the City should determine whet her a blanke t easement to the City f or open sp ace and pass ive rec reation is desirable . 3. The o pen space area or trails should be revi ewed to de termine if they are adi acent to other pub licly he ld open sp ace and whether they are an integral element in the ul timate deve lopment of local or reg ional trails or a local/regi onal greenbelt. Trails shou ld be reviewed to de termine consistency with ProPosed alig nments conta ined in the City' s P arks, Recrea tion and Tra ils Element, North County Pla n or any ot her recognized plan. 4. An ev alua tion should be made to as cert ain whet her the roosed are a cont ains biotic, hist oric, or cultural resources of local o r reg ional signific ance or whet her the si te rePre sent s a natural and scenic resource to the C ity. 5. An evalu ation of any adiacent roosed deve lovment should as cert ain the imp acts of such deve lopment on the na tural re sources and aesthetic qualities of t he site. 6. For na tura l area s which are in a de araded condit ion due to human activity or natur al events such as fire or flood, an evaluat ion should be made of the co sts to resto re such si tes to their natura l or a useable condi tion . 7. OPen svace and trai ls should be accessible to thet aeneral publi c and provide aeneral benefit: remnan t areast wi thin develo pments which are undevel oab le may not bet appropriat e for acceptance in all case s, and may be morel su itably maint ained by a homeowners' asso ciat ion. Policy PS5.8.1: Develop or provide a performing arts center to serve a variety of musical, theatrical, exhibit and community ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 14 of 16 8. The short- and long-term fiscal impacts of accepting, 9. Any roosed arkland should be evaluated to determine whether there is: a) an identified need for additional arkland within the area; b) whether the site is of adeguate acceptable. 2. Development proPosals which include slopes of excessive height and 1enth which are roosed for City maintenance should be evaluated with respect to other design alternatives which could limit these slopes. Publicly maintained slopes should be minimized to the extent feasible. 3. The short- and long-term fiscal impacts of acceptinQi maintenance of s1oes should be evaluated. I 4. Any arkwavs and slopes to be maintained b the City shou ld be found to provide benefit to the g eneral public through provision of safe, efficient and attrac tive streetscaPes and easements. City maintenance should no t be expected for areas where slopes or landscaping will pr ovide only a local benefit to a limited area, such as where they have been created to develop view lots or marketina corridors. SAFETY ELEMENT Goals, Policies and Objectives Policy exposed S1.2.1: Require to flood hazards that new development should not be or contribute to an existing flood hazard, in accordance with the City's Floodplain Management Ordinance and related criteria within the City's Engineering Design Standards. Obiective S2.6: Minimize exposure of residents to other man-made hazards. to the extent feasible. expenditure for mitigation. with existing and Proposed adiacent land uses; e) whether the site is accessible to the aeneral public; and f) whether the proPosed dedication would provide areater benefit than would the collection of fees to be used for development of existing dedicated Park sites. with deleterious health effects, develop standards fort construction. building setbacks, and/or land usel restrictions for those areas impacted by hazardous ELFI fields. 7 ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 15 of 16 Policy 52.6.2: To the extent permitted by law. work cooperatively with the applicable aaencies and homeowners to eliminate/modify sources which interfere or disrupt emergency communications including, but not limited to, improperly installed or operated Ham and citizen band radios. Policy S4.1.3: Promote the upkeep arid proper maintenance of the City's housing stock and other structures and properties throuah the establishment and enforcement of building maintenance standards for ouroses of protecting the health, safety and welfare of the public. Implementation Measure A. Public Safety Programs 22. Building and Seismic Safety Codes: The City will enforce its building and seismic safety which provide I minimum standards for the construction of habitable structures, and ensure the structural stability and safety of all development. The Building and Safety Department reviews all construction plans for compliance with codes prior to development. The City's Building and Safety Department responds to citizen concerns regarding unsafe structures and enforces building codes, and the City's Code Enforcement Section requires abatement of all other code violations. 28. Minimum Buildinq Maintenanc NOISE ELEMENT Goals, Policies and Objectives Implementation Measures B. Acoustical Analysis Reports The City will require acoustical analysis reports for those projects located within existing or future 60 dBA CNEL impact areas, areas subject to sinale-eventnoise episodes I or as deemed necessary by the City. All acoustical analysis reports shall consider existing and future ambient and project related noise levels and shall be prepared by a qualified acoustical engineer with experience in environmental noise assessment and noise control design. Specifically, acoustical analysis reports shall include: • Existing ambient and roadway noise levels recorded by a calibrated noise monitor. • Roadway traffic noise level analysis models determining existing and future noise levels anticipated from proposed projects and related cumulative noise sources. intermittent noise sources. Such noise sources may include but not be limited to railroads, racetracks. stadiums. aircraft overflights and similar uses. ---PAGE BREAK--- Revisions to General Plan Text Continued Page 16 of 16 • Noise contour maps. • Surrounding land uses with identification of sensitive noise receptors and noise sources. • Impacts of the project to the existing ambient noise environment. S Noise control measures where needed. S Cumulative impacts due to related projects. • Unavoidable adverse impacts to the project area. • Assessment of impacts from sinale-event noise episodes Acoustical analysis reports shall evaluate the impacts of the existing noise levels on the proposed project as well as the impact of the project on the existing noise environment. The Planning Department will evaluate projects to ensure that noise sensitive land uses, such as schools, hospitals, and residential developments, will not be located adjacent to sources of noise, when exceeding acceptable levels. Where appropriate, the City will require acoustical analysis reports to include acoustical design for residential development adjacent to freeways or major arterials to achieve the appropriate interior and exterior noise levels through sound insulation, or other means, as indicated in Table N-3. The Planning Department may require developments which will generate large congregations of people or maintain late nighttime hours to provide special mitigation measures, as indicated by the acoustical analysis. HOUSING ELEMENT Programs Program H1.B: Density Bonus Ordinance (Proposed) In accordance with state law, adopt a density bonus program that includes developer incentives as required by California Government Code 65915. Provide a 25% density bonus for housing developers who make 10% of their units affordable to households earning 50% of median income, 20% of their units affordable to households earning 60% of median income, on ---PAGE BREAK--- I a UU-- U UI ' U U U -E-i ri - - / P_UI I I a - g 0 I I 4 1 F t ti - I ' I- U U 3$ j 34 1 • 1 1 a uuuj UUUIUIUUUUUU U1$1$1 lUau •a...ui I I I i A 0 LEGE NO ( . I I :i f State Oesin.tid Signitic ant Risoute. Sand and Gravel Mtne,.J Reiouce Extraction Otattict Resource Area '1Ei Ljj I i I1 rt.Itnhi,n(uarly Palmdale General Plan - 0 4000 e000EET t-55 EXHIBtT LU 6 ---PAGE BREAK--- TABLE LU-5 EXISTING MOBILEHO) PARKS 1. Domenic's Adult Mobile Home Estates 38015 30th Street East (8.25 du/ac density) 2. Grecian Isle Mobile Home Community 444 East Avenue R (7.85 du/ac density) 3. Sierra Vista Mobile Home Estates 3255 East Avenue R (9.6 du/ac density) 4. Sagetree Village Mobile Home Community 3524 East Avenue R (16.0 du/ac density) 5. Almond Heights Mobile Estates 40701 Rancho Vista Blvd. (6.6 du/ac density) 6. Rolling Hills Estates 1030 East Avenue S (6.1 du/ac density) 7. Palmdale Mobilehome Park 38015 65th Street East (7.8 du/ac density) 8. Ponderosa Vista 5200 Entrar Drive (5.9 du/ac density) 9. Thousand Elms Mobile Lodge 37311 North 47th Street E. (9.3 du/ac density) 10.Joshua View Mobilehome Park 6150 East Avenue T (24 du/ac density) * 11.Alpine Village Mobile Home Park 36211 Sierra Highway (4.24 du/ac density) * 12.Antelope Valley Center 8807 E. Palmdale Blvd. (11.5 du/ac density) * 13.S-B Trailer Park 38525 90th Street east (11.3 du/ac density) * 14.Telstar Trailer Park 343 B. Ave. Q (7.5 du/ac density) * Mobilehome/Trailer parks within the planning area ---PAGE BREAK--- IV#SION CF MINES AND G DCV Ic I A b$ A r JAMES F DAVIS. STAlE GEOLOGST . J i- Q. i) - - - - - - / EDWARDS MR FORCE 3AS _ _ 4RE4'-- - k' - L. - - - S /7 / - - - - - - - V I, 1,7,7 /7 - - - I _ - , - - - - - - UNcLAsSIfIED AREA '7 - - - I XP1ANATION OF rMØOLS : ?4UPER c :z;z: I 'IINEUL ESOURCS t1E MAP I -5 .REA. - IUM!R :z:R NAP OR THIS .'.REA. - VL5./9 - - 'I - I - MZ-3 by Russell V. Miflir ona David P. Fuller - * - - - - - - - - - - - -raDMC by N. St1cn,, - - - S I L"*1I L - - - - 1L MINERAL LAND CLASSIFICAtION AND INDEX TO DZ7IL!D ONE 8 SECTOR MAPS . FC THE SAIJGUS-NEWHALL & PALMDALE P-C REGIONS - - 1983 - = - - - - - - meø Dy LLS. C, Survey ( , S 4I'L. 2 / - I 4S A U GUS - N E W H A L L / / REGION11- \vRz.l ZL / 1g14/// / / / / / - L , L D'pI' .E PL5.I3I-. L-FrPJ - (N -z l- - - - 4;T //1r/7: STATE-CLASSIFIED MINERAL RESOURCE DEPOSITS EXHIBIT ER-lB ---PAGE BREAK--- '114 . . 1 2 1 8- • ' " $1 - - I ' I • - ;_1s .3 I 1 1 • L ' T n a / I LeGEND 1* . ' ' ; " mIaITPMa cmv - I I _ iui IllhlIllifihIll 31* . iv ii I • a - - - ef alifil W4 - ; / a as a au ii a. ' a PAL ui... n ii.. 'UPUPU 1w_s. _s - - 3. - . 'I 3. - _ a_sE - -0 P.&_s s. U. 4 U_s - 1. • • ' _s 4 - I I 3 - I, a* I w_ LE GENERAL PLAN MAP CATEGORIES ER-tO