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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-04-12 - AGENDA REPORTS - MC 16-012 ANNEX 16-001 (2)Agenda Item: 9 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA AGENDA REPORT PUBLIC HEARINGS CITY MANAGER APPROVAL: fill ✓� �� DATE: April 12, 2016 SUBJECT: MASTER CASE 16-012; ANNEXATION 16-001; PREZONE 16-001; INITIAL STUDY 16-001: PREZONE AND APPLICATION TO THE LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION FOR THE WEST CREEK/WEST HILLS ANNEXATION DEPARTMENT: Community Development PRESENTER: David Peterson RECOMMENDED ACTION City Council: 1) Conduct the public hearing; 2) Adopt a resolution adopting a Negative Declaration for the project (Master Case 16-012) and authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to submit an application to the Local Agency Formation Commission requesting annexation of approximately 1,018.39 acres of land to the City of Santa Clarita; and 3) Introduce and pass to second reading an Ordinance entitled: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, TO APPROVE PREZONE 16-001 (MASTER CASE 16-012) FOR APPROXIMATELY 1,0 18.39 ACRES OF LAND, KNOWN AS THE WEST CREEK AND WEST HILLS AREA, GENERALLY LOCATED EAST OF THE LOCKHEED INDUSTRIAL PARK, NORTHWEST OF THE VALENCIA 2 SPECIFIC PLAN AREA, AND WEST OF SAN FRANCISQUITO CREEK, ALONG THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY OF THE EXISTING CITY OF SANTA CLARITA CITY LIMITS." BACKGROUND On May 21, 2010, the property owners within the West Creek, West Hills, and Copper Hill/ Copperstone communities were surveyed to determine the level of support for annexation to the City of Santa Clarita (City). Of the roughly 790 property owners surveyed, about 20% responded, of which 92% supported annexation and 8% did not support annexation. Page 1 Packet Pg. H At their meeting on July 20, 2010, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution P10-24, recommending the City Council approve Master Case 10-048, initiating the annexation of the West Creek, West Hills, Tesoro del Valle, and Copperstone communities. The City Council directed staff to move forward with the annexation of only the Copperstone area. That annexation was completed on June 14, 2012. The remaining communities of Tesoro del Valle, West Hills, and West Creek were not annexed. In 2015, Newhall Land, the developer of the West Creek and West Hills communities of the County of Los Angeles (County), indicated to the City they were not opposed to an annexation of those communities. Following the discussion with Newhall Land, the City also considered including Tesoro del Valle in the proposed annexation area; however, it has since been removed because the County is reviewing an entitlement application for Phase 2 of the project. The applicant for Phase 2 projects having approvals from the County in place by early 2018. In addition, City staff met with staff of the Local Area Formation Commission (LAFCO), staff of the Chief Executive Officer of the County of Los Angeles, and staff of the Fifth District. None of these organizations had any opposition to the proposed annexation. On February 19, 2016, City staff issued survey cards to property owners within the West Creek and West Hills areas. 1,963 survey cards were mailed out and 14% have been returned. Of the returned cards, 68% favored annexation, 16% were against annexation, and 16% required more information. On multiple occasions, City staff has contacted the West Creek Home Owners Association (HOA) in an attempt to schedule a public outreach meeting during the first quarter of 2016; however a meeting has not yet occurred. Staff will continue to reach out to the HOA. The prezone of the proposed project was brought before the Planning Commission at their regularly scheduled meeting on March 1, 2016. The Planning Commission adopted Resolution P16-05, recommending adoption of the Negative Declaration prepared for the project, and recommending the City Council approve Master Case 16-012 and Prezone 16-001. The proposed annexation area is currently within the City's Sphere of Influence (SOI). As a result, no amendment to the SOI is necessary. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The City proposes a prezone of the subject site for the purposes of annexation of approximately 1,018 acres of unincorporated territory generally located northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the northern boundary of Santa Clarita. The prezone would designate the project area with the City's zoning and land use designations consistent with the approved General Plan. The prezone is associated with the annexation of the project area. The West Creek development includes approvals to not exceed 2,509 units. However, currently Newhall Land anticipates developing 2,444 units. The project area includes 1,717 built residences, an existing 74,000 square -foot commercial center, one elementary school, one junior high school, and West Creek Park. The project area also includes two undeveloped commercial centers and 727 residences that have been approved but not yet built. Page 2 Packet Pg. 167 GENERAL PLANNING AND ZONING The project area is contained in the City's General Plan and consists of City land use designations that include: PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); and OS (Open Space). Land use designations would not change as a result of this project and are, therefore, consistent with the current land use and zoning designations. Current land use designations are consistent with the built environment in the project area. ANALYSIS Prezone / General Plan Consistency/ Unified Development Code Consistency The developed portions, as well as the entitled portions of the project area, were reviewed under the County land use planning policies, and the development of the project area was reviewed under the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) prepared for the West Creek and West Hills project. All mitigation measures under the previous County certified EIR would be accepted by the City upon annexation with no changes. The annexation area includes approximately 727 residences that have been approved but not yet built and two undeveloped commercial center sites. The first undeveloped commercial center, located near the intersection of Copperhill Drive and Rio Norte Drive, includes approximately 107,000 square feet of total space, comprised of 27,000 square feet of retail and an 80,000 square -foot assisted living facility. The assisted living facility includes 120 attached units. The second undeveloped commercial center, located at the intersection of Copperhill Drive and Camino del Arte Drive, includes approximately 57,000 square feet of retail, office, and services. Both commercial projects have been entitled and are under review for site plan revisions by the County. Entitlements are anticipated to be approved by the fall of 2016 and prior to recordation of this proposed annexation. The developed portions of the project area were built under the County development standards, and the development of the project area was reviewed under a separate environmental document. The undeveloped portions of the project area were reviewed under the County development standards and would comply with these standards, unless otherwise modified by the City. There is no new development proposed with this application to annex the area to the City of Santa Clarita. Any future development in the area not already approved by the County of Los Angeles would be analyzed under a separate environmental review and subject to development standards of the City of Santa Clarita and other responsible agencies. The West Creek and West Hills communities are included in the City's General Plan. Although located in the County, these communities have land use designations that were established by the General Plan. The prezone does not propose changing these existing designations. The project is consistent with the following objectives and policies of the Land Use Element of the General Plan: • Objective L U 2.1: Provide adequate, suitable sites for housing, employment, business, shopping, public facilities, public utility facilities, and community services to meet the current needs and anticipated future growth. Page 3 Packet Pg. 168 Policy L U 3.1.1: On the Land Use Map, designate adequate land for residential use at various densities to provide a mix of housing opportunities for all segments of the population, including attached, detached, senior, and mixed-use housing types, which are consistent with the community character and meet the region's housing goals. The project supports these policies in that: 1) The prezone is consistent with the General Plan land use designations; 2) The prezone is consistent with the built environment and entitled but unbuilt environment within the project area; 3) The built environment and entitled but unbuilt environment provide for a variety of housing types and densities within the UR2, UR3, UR4, and UR5 zones; 4) The built environment and entitled but unbuilt environment provide for employment, business, and shopping services via an existing commercial center and two future commercial centers; 5) The built environment provides for public services via an existing elementary school, junior high school, and fire station; and 6) The built environment provides for community services via the public park and river trail. Therefore, the proposed prezone is consistent with the General Plan and the Unified Development Code. Annexation Application to the Local Agency Formation Commission As a part of its evaluation of an annexation, LAFCO must find that the annexing city is able to ensure sufficient municipal services are available to serve the area under consideration. Should Council approve the project, a project application would be submitted to LAFCO later this month, with the intent of the annexation being completed by November 2016. ENVIRONMENTAL An environmental analysis evaluating the impacts of the project was conducted as part of the project review. Included in this assessment was the review of the West Creek and West Hills communities. All mitigation measures under the previous County -certified EIR for the West Creek project would be accepted by the City upon annexation with no changes. Therefore, it is determined that the proposed prezone and annexation would not have a significant effect on the environment. The requested prezone is consistent with the General Plan, County land use planning, and existing development and uses that currently exist in the project area. The Negative Declaration for this project was prepared and circulated for public review and comment beginning on February 9, 2016, and lasting through March 1, 2016. NOTICING All notices required by law were completed, which consisted of a one-eighth page legal advertisement in The Signal newspaper on March 22, 2016. In addition to the required legal advertisement, all property owners within the project area were mailed a Notice of Public Hearing, and signage was posted around the project area on March 15, 2016, for the community's convenience. ALTERNATIVE ACTION Other actions as determined by the City Council. 0 Page 4 Packet Pg. 169 FISCAL IMPACT The annexation of the West Creek and West Hills area would generate a neutral/no net fiscal impact to the City of Santa Clarita. ATTACHMENTS Public Hearing Notice Resolution with Exhibit Ordinance with Exhibit General Plan Map (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Planning Commission Staff Report March 12016 (available in City Clerk's Reading File) Negative Declaration (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Los Angeles County Responses to Initial Study (available in the City Clerk's Reading File) Page 5 Packet Pg. 170 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROJECT TITLE: Prezone and Annexation of West Creek and West Hills APPLICATION: Master Case No. 16-012: Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 PROJECT APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita PROJECT LOCATION: The project area is generally known as West Creek and West Hills and is generally located east of the Lockheed Industrial Park, west of San Francisquito Creek and northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the City of Santa Clarita's northerly boundary. The project area is currently located in the unincorporated portion of the County of Los Angeles. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The City of Santa Clarita proposes a prezoning of the subject site for the purposes of annexation of approximately 1,018 acres of unincorporated territory generally located northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the northerly boundary of Santa Clarita. As a part of the annexation, the City proposes a prezone that would designate the project area with City of Santa Clarita zoning and land use designations consistent with the approved General Plan. The proposed prezone designations include: PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); and OS (Open Space). The proposal also includes a Resolution of Application requesting that the Local Agency Formation Commission annex the subject area into the City of Santa Clarita. PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: On March 1, 2016, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council certify the Negative Declaration prepared for the project and approve the proposed project. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: A DRAFT NEGATIVE DECLARATION has been prepared for this proposed project and was posted for public review from February 9, 2016 to March 1, 2016. A copy of the Negative Declaration and all supporting documents are available at the City Clerk's Office, located in the City Hall Building at 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 120, Santa Clarita, California, 91355. The City of Santa Clarita City Council will conduct a public hearing on this matter on the following date: DATE: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 TIME: At or after 6:00 p.m. LOCATION: City Hall, Council Chambers 23920 Valencia Blvd., First Floor Santa Clarita, CA 91355 If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Santa Clarita at, or prior to, the public hearing. For further information regarding this proposal, you may contact the project planner at the City of Santa Clarita, Permit Center, 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 140, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Telephone: (661) 2554330. Website: www.santa-clarita.com/planning. Send written correspondence to: 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. Project Planner: David Peterson, Associate Planner. dneterson@santa-clarita.com. Kevin Tonoian, City Clerk Published: The Signal, March 22, 2016 9.a Packet Pg. 171 9.b RESOLUTION NO. 16- A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE PROJECT (MASTER CASE 16-012) AND REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY INITIATE PROCEEDINGS TO ANNEX APPROXIMATELY 1,0 18.39 ACRES OF CERTAIN INHABITED TERRITORY, GENERALLY KNOWN AS THE WEST CREEK AND WEST HILLS AREA, TO THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita desires to initiate proceedings pursuant to the Cortese - Knox -Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000, commencing with Section 56000 of the California Government Code, for an annexation of approximately 1,018.39 acres of unincorporated county territory; and WHEREAS, the territory proposed to be annexed is inhabited, and a map of the boundaries is set forth in Exhibit A, attached and by this reference incorporated; and WHEREAS, the short form designation of the proposal is Annexation 16-001 (Master Case 16-012), which includes the areas known as West Creek and West Hills; and WHEREAS, no terms or conditions are requested by the property owners, for this proposed annexation at this time; and WHEREAS, the reasons for this proposed annexation are to create a logical extension of City boundaries and to promote the efficient provision of municipal services in the affected territory; and WHEREAS, in February and March, 2016, the City conducted an annexation survey of the West Creek and West Hills neighborhoods. Survey cards were mailed to 1,963 property owners in both areas. Of those who responded, 68% supported annexation, 16% were against annexation, and 16% requested additional information; and WHEREAS, on February 9, 2016, an Initial Study was prepared for Prezone 16-001 for the West Creek and West Hills communities. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, the Initial Study concluded that no significant adverse environmental impacts were associated with the project and a Negative Declaration was prepared; and WHEREAS, the environmental document has been circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public for a 21 -day public review period from February 9 through March 1, 2016, and posted with the Los Angeles County Clerk; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on Prezone 16-001 on March 1, 2016. At the close of the public hearing on March 1, 2016, the Planning Commission recommended the adoption of the Negative Declaration and unanimously recommended that the City Council approve Prezone 16-001 for the West Creek and West Hills areas. Notice of the public hearing was given in the manner required by the Santa Clarita Municipal Code and State law; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita has considered all evidence, oral and documentary, and is advised of the foregoing. Packet Pg. 172 Resolution Page No. 2 9.b NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, California, does hereby determine and find as follows: SECTION 1. This Resolution is hereby adopted by the City Council, adopting a Negative Declaration for Master Case 16-012. The Local Agency Formation Commission of Los Angeles County (LAFCO) is hereby requested to initiate proceedings for the annexation of that territory, as shown in Exhibit A, according to the terms and conditions stated above, if any, with notice and hearing by the LAFCO, and in the manner provided by the Cortese -Knox Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000. SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS. The City Council has reviewed and considered the Initial Study prepared for the project, and finds and determines as follows: The City Council hereby finds that the proposed Negative Declaration prepared in connection with Prezone 16-001 and Annexation 16-001, pertaining to the West Creek and West Hills annexation, has been prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, has been reviewed and considered by the City Council, and reflects the independent judgment of the City Council. Based on the Initial Study and the entire record of proceedings, there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. Therefore, the City Council approved the Negative Declaration for the project as included in the agenda packet for the April 12, 2016, City Council Meeting. The Director of Community Development is hereby designated as the custodian of the documents and other materials which constitute the record of proceedings in this matter. The documents and materials are on file in the Department of Community Development, City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355. SECTION 3. The City Council hereby directs and authorizes the City Manager, or designee, to file the application with LAFCO to annex the subject site to the City of Santa Clarita on behalf of the City Council. SECTION 4. The City Council hereby directs and authorizes the City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita to forward a certified copy of this Resolution, with applicable fees and other information as required by Section 56383 of the Government Code, to the Executive Officer of LAFCO of Los Angeles County. SECTION 5. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution and certify this record to be a frill, true, correct copy of the action taken. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of MAYOR ATTEST: CITY CLERK , 2016. Packet Pg. 173 Resolution Page 3 STATE OF CALIFORNIA) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA) I, Kevin Tonoian, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the day of _ _ 2016 by the following vote of Council: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: CITY CLERK 9.b Packet Pg. 174 9.b EXHIBIT A: PROJECT BOUNDARY SAn'I'1 ('.I,litI r\ Q) West Creek Annexation BOUNDARY . Pa*s (E=isdnp} rISCrxKAs IE*tstinpl 71 Parcel Out nes Santo Clara Rt4w FCity of Santa Clarka Boundary Wes, CraikAnnenatur Ana iPrwos*ai N Cant ears: 11M 111, Tota County of eJrArrurs. All r"crasonrn, A 9*CtV0fSNrta UaMMdG"n0twarrant rs UP Im m o 1 i..i St Ma s mq af tfw dim and auum$c m list 11[Yfar aftl artorY of cntttsloro. V ts�y�(2 Tea DfO � DN Vasa ? Dein$ntafy T SAPoo Nail$ Jufenf V Nov: Cr:ak V MI(R7 A4 a0aTy' �� VKFf Noun rsrr O +ry.Elsrnsn E: f 3 dE pR a z J\Lt RANCH 0,D Q' 'tier.: 'is;ncf a 1+00 m (J 1 JO r� Packet Pg. 175 9.c ORDINANCE NO. "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, TO APPROVE PREZONE 16-001 (MASTER CASE 16-012) FOR APPROXIMATELY 1,018.39 ACRES OF LAND KNOWN AS THE WEST CREEK AND WEST HILLS AREA, GENERALLY LOCATED EAST OF THE LOCKHEED INDUSTRIAL PARK, NORTHWEST OF THE VALENCIA 2 SPECIFIC PLAN AREA, AND WEST OF SAN FRANCISQUITO CREEK, ALONG THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY OF THE EXISTING CITY OF SANTA CLARITA CITY LIMITS" THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1: FINDINGS OF FACT. The City Council does hereby make the following findings of fact: a. In May 2010, the City of Santa Clarita (City) conducted an annexation survey of the West Creek/West Hills and Copperstone/Copper Hill neighborhoods. Survey cards were mailed to 790 property owners in both areas. Of those who responded, 92% supported annexation and 8% did not support annexation. Six others requested additional information. b. In late 2015, Newhall Land, the developer of the project, indicated to the City that they were in favor of the City proceeding with the annexation of the West Creek and West Hills communities. C. The project includes approximately 1,0 18.39 acres of land located east of the Lockheed Industrial Park, northwest of the Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, and west of San Francisquito Creek, along the northern boundary of the existing City of Santa Clarita. d. The project area has been entitled for: 2,444 residential units, of which 1,717 have been completed; an elementary school; a junior high school; West Creek Park; and open space. e. In January 2016, the City began the preliminary work necessary prior to the City Council initiating annexation proceedings, which included a Prezone (PRZ 16-001). f. Prezone 16-001 is consistent with the zoning currently in place within the project area and is consistent with the General Plan. g. Prezone 16-001 is consistent with the entitled and unbuilt portions of the project area. h. Prezone 16-001 includes the following zoning designations: PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); and OS (Open Space). Packet Pg. 176 9.c i. On February 9, 2016, an Initial Study was prepared for Prezone 16-001 for the West Creek and West Hills communities. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Initial Study concluded that no significant adverse environmental impacts were associated with the project and a Negative Declaration was prepared. On February 19, 2016, 1,963 survey cards were mailed to property owners within the proposed annexation area. Approximately 13% of the cards were returned, with 68% in favor of annexation, 16% against annexation, and 16% needing more information. k. The environmental document was circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public for a 21 -day public review period from February 9 through March 1, 2016, and posted with the Los Angeles County Clerk. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on Prezone 16-001 on March 1, 2106. At the close of the public hearing, the Planning Commission recommended adoption of the Negative Declaration and unanimously recommended the City Council approve Prezone 16-001 for the West Creek and West Hills areas. Notice of public hearing was given in the manner required by the Santa Clarita Municipal Code and State law. m. On March 22, as required by law, a 1/8`h page advertisement was placed in The Signal Newspaper. In addition, all property owners within the project area received a notice of public hearing, and two signs were placed at the entrances of the project area on March 15, 2016. n. The City Council held a duly noticed public hearing on this issue on April 12, 2016, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita, CA 91355. At the hearing, the City Council considered the staff report, received public testimony on the project, and closed the public hearing. The City Council also adopted the Negative Declaration that was prepared for the project, and introduced and passed to a second reading an ordinance that would prezone the proposed annexation area with zoning designations consistent with the City of Santa Clarita Zoning Ordinance. o. The documents and other materials which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision of the City Council is based in this matter are on file within the Department of Community Development and are in the custody of the Director of Community Development. SECTION 2. GENERAL PIAN CONSISTF,NCY FINDINGS. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the City Council finds as follows: a. The current land uses in the project area are consistent with the City's General Plan. The project would assign residential, open space, and commercial prezoning to the unincorporated territory, that both support and are consistent with the General Plan. Specifically, the project is consistent with the following objectives and policies of the Land Use Element of the General Plan: Packet Pg. 177 9.c • Objective LU 2.1: Provide adequate, suitable sites for housing, employment, business, shopping, public facilities, public utility facilities, and community services to meet the current needs and anticipated future growth. • Policy LU 3.1.1: On the Land Use Map, designate adequate land for residential use at various densities to provide a mix of housing opportunities for all .segments of the population, including attached, detached, senior, and mixed-use housing types, which are consistent with the community character and meet the region's housing goals. The project supports these policies in that: 1) The prezone is consistent with the General Plan land use designations; 2) The prezone is consistent with the built environment and entitled but unbuilt environment within the project area; 3) The built environment and entitled but unbuilt environment provide for a variety of housing types and densities within the UR2, UR3, UR4, and UR5 zones; 4) The built environment and entitled but unbuilt environment provide for employment, business, and shopping services via an existing commercial center and two future commercial centers; 5) The built environment provides for public services via an existing elementary school, junior high school, and fire station; and 6) the built environment provides for community services via the public park and river trail. b. No General Plan Amendment is necessary or proposed at this time. c. Based upon the testimony and other evidence received at the public hearing, and upon studies and investigations made by the City Council and on its behalf, the City Council further finds and determines that this proposal is consistent with the City's General Plan. SECTION 3. GENERAL FINDINGS. Based upon the testimony and other evidence received at the hearing, and upon the study and investigation made by the City Council and on its behalf, the City Council finds as follows: a. Under Section 56375(a)(3) of the Government Code, prezoning is required prior to the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) taking action on an annexation; the land being annexed must be prezoned by the annexing city. b. The purpose of the proposal is to prezone the subject site with City of Santa Clarita zoning consisting of. PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); and OS (Open Space). The proposed Prezone 16-001 amending the City of Santa Clarita Zoning Map is consistent with General Plan zoning designations and existing development entitlements for the subject site. d. The proposed Prezone 16-001 is consistent with the objectives of the Unified Development Code in that it implements the goals and objectives of the General Plan and guides the future growth of the City as it meets the development policies of the City of Santa Clarita. Packet Pg. 178 Public participation and notification requirements pursuant to Sections 65090 and 65091 of the Government Code of the State of California were duly followed. SECTION 4. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS. Based upon the testimony and other evidence received, the City Council finds as follows: a. On April 12, 2016, the City Council adopted a Negative Declaration for the project that was prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act. The Negative Declaration reflects the independent judgment of the City Council that, based on the Initial Study and the entire record of proceedings, there is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. SECTION 5. FINDINGS FOR PREZONE. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the City Council finds as follows: a. Prezoning is required under Section 56375(a)(3) of the Government Code in that, prior to the Local Agency Formation Commission taking an action on an annexation, the subject site must be prezoned by the annexing city. b. Prezone 16-001, and specifically its proposed amendment of the City of Santa Clarita Zoning Map, is consistent with existing development and/or existing development entitlements for the subject site. C. Prezone 16-001 is consistent with the objectives of the Unified Development Code in that it implements the goals and objectives of the General Plan, and guides the future growth of the City as it meets the development policies of the City of Santa Clarita. SECTION 6. The City Council hereby introduces and passes to second reading, this ordinance approving Prezone 16-001 as described herein and shown on the attached Exhibit A. SECTION 7. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published as required by law. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of 2016 MAYOR ATTEST: CITY CLERK 9.c Packet Pg. 179 STATE OF CALIFORNIA) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA) 1, Kevin Tonoian, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at the regular meeting of the City Council on the day of , 2016. That thereafter, said Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at the regular meeting of the City Council on the day of , 2016 by the following vote, to wit: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: CITY CLERK 9.c Packet Pg.180 9.c EXHIBIT A: PROPOSED PREZONE 1, -1C 1, Q) West Creek Annexation PRE -ZONE Parcv Out mes QCity orf Santa Clarity Boundary ClWest Creek Annexation Area (Proposed) OVOV land Use Pol Icy(AdnpWd W no 2011) Ic A P ""'a'. CDOtfIgnl laM1.7O16 C&Unty d Loc Angeles. Ali rants rdensatl. 0 the Otypt vao Carta do notwarant ne a;nrats a tIM sra :n! ar.�rva nn Ilaol ZY for a•r/ arton d omkslon s ti lnwit tl�AS'llmlaldtnvl\�r�n�l enwnr.�wd ing Legend mercial MX -C i MX44 Icc CN CR BP I Space T O -NF OG C—'BLM pecifrc Plan NL 3P; SP uraI Residential NU11RR1 - 0.05 duta NU21RR2 - 0.1 Uufa NU31RR3 - 02 Outa NU41RRd - 0.5 Gula NU51RR5 - 1.0 dUta Urban Residential URI - 2.0 dYA UR2 - 5.0 aura UR3 - 11.0 Gula - UR4 - Min. 10 Gula - mm 15 0 OW; URS - MM 19 dWa - ma. 30.0 a4 ' PUtY onst'uacma1 NEWMAv4 R�t4C14 RO r Packet Pg. 181 GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS `' ' NTA CLAR11A West Creek Annexation GENERALPLAN Parcel Outlines aCry of Santa Clarita Boundary 13 '/'lest Creek Annexation Area (Proposed) OMOV land Use Policy �AooPtni - 20111 "al data: Colrydgnt Jar.. 2016 County of los Angeks. AN ngl*lr resrrved. mm 11 mpm 4"e City of S4mfl Canta due, not wanare � me euum:y PI the data mxt a"aurnes nc Nnilay for arty error s w wnouuna 41PNt:.t.'Sta6\1BQUyellxr•Cha'"krtw atnoun.nm and Use Policy Legend i ommerci a l Mx -C MX -I. CC CN CR Industrial 0 I Space O -NF Nos OS•BLM Specific Plan NL SP; SP Ural Residential NUTARI - D.05 "a NU2/RR2 - D-1 dura NU3/RR3 - D2 dura NU4RR4 - 0.5 dura iNL041RR5 a 1.0 dura \ Residential URI - 2.0 dila UR2 - 50 dura r UR3 - 11.0 dura UR4 - min. ID dula - max 18.O dura UR5 - min. IQ dula - max. 30.0 du1 i /r PI eN �r i ♦ � � 1e yu1 It ��y" I ='4 blldlnstiMronal CL �l K NEWHP� .O #! v A a41j'����'f` Agenda Item: NEW BUSINESS CITY OF SANTA CLARITA AGENDA REPORT PLANNING MANAGER APPROVAL: DATE: March 1, 2016 SUBJECT: Master Case 16-012: Prezone for the West Creek and West Hills Annexation APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita LOCATION: Communities of West Creek and West Hills CASE PLANNER: David Peterson RECOMMENDED ACTION Staff recommends that the Planning Commission: 1) Open the public hearing. 2) Receive testimony from the public. 3) Close the public hearing. 4) Adopt Resolution P16-05, recommending the City Council adopt a resolution to adopt the Negative Declaration and approve Master Case 16-012; Prezone 16-001 for the West Creek and West Hills Annexation. REQUEST This is a request for a Prezone associated with the annexation of approximately 1,018 acres of land currently located within the County of Los Angeles, generally known as the communities of West Creek and West Hills. BACKGROUND On May 21, 2010, the property owners within the West Creek, West Hills and Copperstone/Copper Hill communities were surveyed to determine the overall level of support Page 1 for annexation. Of the roughly 790 property owners that were surveyed, about 20 percent responded. Of those, 92 percent indicated they would support annexation and 8 percent would not support annexation. At their regular meeting on July 20, 2010, the PIanning Commission adopted Resolution 10-24, recommending that the City Council approve Master Case 10-048, initiating the annexation of the West Creek, West Hills, Tesoro del Valle, and Copperstone communities. Subsequently, the City Council directed staff to move forward with the annexation of only the Copperstone area. This annexation was completed on June 14, 2012. The remaining communities of Tesoro del Valle, West Hills, and West Creek were not annexed at that time. In 2015, the Newhall Land company, the developer of the West Creek and West Hills communities under the County of Los Angeles, indicated to the City that they were in favor of an annexation of those communities. Following this conversation, the City also considered including Tesoro in the proposed annexation area. However, it has been removed because the County of Los Angeles is currently reviewing an entitlement application for Phase 2 of the project. The applicant for Phase 2 hopes to have approvals from the County of Los Angeles in place by early 2018. In late February 2016, City staff issued survey cards to property owners within the project area. Survey cards are due to be returned by early April. Staff anticipates an overall support rate for the current annexation that is similar to the previous survey of the project area conducted in 2010. Staff will apprise the Planning Commission as survey cards are returned. Presently, the proposed prezone and associated annexation would only include the West Creek and West Hills areas. Tesoro is not included in the project area. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The City of Santa Clarita proposes a prezone of the subject site for the purposes of annexation of approximately 1,018 acres of unincorporated territory generally located northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the northerly boundary of Santa Clarita. The prezone would designate the project area with City of Santa Clarita zoning and land use designations consistent with the approved General Plan. The project area includes 1,717 built residences, a 74,000 square -foot commercial center, one elementary school, one junior high school and West Creek Park. The project area also includes two undeveloped commercial centers and 727 residences that have been approved but are not yet built. GENERAL PLANNING AND ZONING The project area is contained in the City of Santa Clarita's General Plan and consists of City land use designations that include PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Page 2 Residential 5); and OS (Open Space). Land use designations would not change as a result of this project and are, therefore, consistent with the current land use and zoning designations approved by the General Plan. Further, current land use designations are consistent with the built environment in the project area. ANALYSIS Prezone / Unified Development Code Consistency / General Plan Consistency The proposed prezone designations for the annexation area match that of the land use designations as defined by the General Plan and include PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); OS (Open Space). More specifically, the proposed prezone area is summarized in Table 1 below. TABLE 1 PREZONE ACRES PI 34.86 CN 45.66 UR2 482.51 UR3 85.95 UR4 76.48 UR5 22.18 OS 270.30 The built portions, as well as the entitled portions, of the project area were reviewed under the Los Angeles County land use planning policies, and the development of the project area was reviewed under the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) prepared for the West Creek and West Hills project. All mitigation measures under the previous County certified EIR would be accepted by the City upon annexation with no changes. As mentioned above, the annexation area also includes two undeveloped commercial center sites, and approximately 727 residences that have been approved but not yet built. The first commercial center, located near the intersection of Copperhill Drive and Rio Norte Drive, includes approximately 107,000 square feet of total space, comprised of 27,000 square feet of retail and an 80,000 square foot assisted living facility. The assisted living facility includes 120 units. The second commercial center, located at the intersection of Copperhill Drive and Camino del Arte Drive, includes approximately 57,000 square feet of retail, office and services. Both projects are currently under review by the County of Los Angeles. Entitlements are anticipated to be approved by the Fall of 2016. No new development is proposed as a part of this project. The proposed prezone designations reflect the existing development and the approved development in the area and are consistent with the approved land use designations within the General Plan. The densities for each of the proposed prezone designations can be summarized as shown in Table 2 below. Page 3 TABLE 2 PREZONE DENSITY PI Floor Area Ratio: .511 CN Floor Area Ratio: .511 UR2 5 units per acre UR3 11 units per acre UR4 18 units per acre UR5 30 units per acre OS 1 1 unit per 4 acres The developed portions of the project area were built under the Los Angeles County development standards and the development of the project area was reviewed under a separate environmental document. The undeveloped portions of the project area were reviewed under the County of Los Angeles development standards and would comply with these standards, unless otherwise modified by the City. There is no new development proposed with this application to annex the area to the City of Santa Clarita. Any future development in the area that was not already approved by the County of Los Angeles, would be analyzed under a separate environmental review and subject to development standards of the City of Santa Clarita and other responsible agencies. The West Creek and West Hills communities are included in the City of Santa Clarita's General Plan. As such, these communities, although located in the County of Los Angeles, have land use designations that were established by the General Plan. The prezone does not propose changing these existing designations. Therefore, the proposed prezone is consistent with the General Plan and the Unified Development Code. The project is also consistent with the existing built environment. ENVIRONMENTAL An environmental analysis, evaluating the impacts of the project, was conducted as part of the project review. Included in this assessment was the review of the West Creek and West Hills communities. All mitigation measures under the previous County -certified EIR for the West Creek project would be accepted by the City upon annexation with no changes. Therefore, it is determined that the proposed prezone and annexation would not have a significant effect on the environment. The requested prezone is consistent with the General Plan, Los Angeles County land use planning, and existing development and uses that currently exist in the project area. The Negative Declaration for this project was prepared and circulated for public review and continent beginning February 9, 2016 through March 1, 2016. NOTICING All notices required by law were completed, which consisted of a one-eighth page legal advertisement in The Signal newspaper on February 9, 2016. In addition to the required legal advertisement, signage was posted around the project area on February 16, 2016, for the community's convenience. As of the writing of this staff report, staff has received no correspondence from the community. Page 4 ATTACHMENTS Negative Declaration and Initial Study Resolution 16-05 EXHIBIT A: Project Boundary EXHIBIT B: General Plan Designations EXHIBIT C: Prezone Page 5 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA NEGATIVE DECLARATION [X] Proposed [ } Final �� �,.,..�. _____--_ — -mom:.-��:_—_-��__ ��:�•�..� MASTER CASE NO: Master Case No, 16-012 PERMIT/PROJECT West Creek / West Hills Annexation, Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita, Community Development Department 23920 Valencia Blvd Santa Clarita, CA 91355 LOCATION OF THE PROJECT; The project area is general known as West Creek and West Hills and is generally located east of the Lockheed Industrial Park, west of San Francisquito Creek and northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the City of Santa Clarita's northerly boundary. The project area is currently located in the unincorporated portion of the County of Los Angeles. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT: This initial study was prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for a Prezone (PRZ), and Annexation (ANX) for the West Creek and West Hills communities including approximately 1,018 acres of land. The project area is generally located east of the Lockheed Industrial Park, west of San Francisquito Creek and northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the City of Santa Clarita's northerly boundary. The project area is currently located in the unincorporated portion of the County of Los Angeles. Based on the information contained in the Initial Study prepared for this project, and pursuant to the requirements of Section 15070 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of Santa Clarita [X] CityCouncil [I Planning Commission [I Director of Planning and Building Services finds that the pro)ect as proposed or revised will have no significant effect upon the environment, and that a Negative Declaration shall be adopted pursuant to Section 15070 of CEQA. Mitigation measures for this project [X] Are Not Required [ ] Are Attached [ ] Are Not Attached Jason Crawford INTERIM PLANNING MLN•At RK - Prepared by;_� g D tvi l Pe cr onAs, uciJ Approved by: James Chow. Senior Planner (Name/Title) Public Review Period From__fthruary 9, 2016 To March 1. 2016 Public Notice Given On February 9, 2016 [X] Legal Advertisement [X] Posting of Properties [ ] Written Notice CERTIFICATION DATE: Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 INITIAL STUDY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA Project title/master case number: West Creek/West Hills Annexation— Master Case#16-012, Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001 Lead agency name and address: City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Contact person and phone number: David Peterson Associate Planner (661)255-4330 Project location: The project area is general known as West Creek and West Hills and is generally located east of the Lockheed Industrial Park, west of San Francisquito Creek and northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the City of Santa Clarita's northerly boundary. The project area is currently located in the unincorporated portion of the County of Los Angeles. The proposed project area is shown on Figure 1, as provided below. Applicant's name and address: City of Santa Clarita, Planning Division Community Development Department 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 General Plan designation: PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); URS (Urban Residential 5); OS (Open Space) Zoning: Existing County of Los Angeles Zoning for the project area includes: OS (Open Space); C -2 -PD (Commercial Planned Development 2: Neighborhood Business); RPD -5000-2U (Residential Planned Development); RPD -5000 -IOU (Residential Planned Development); RPD -5000-12U (Residential Planned Development); RPD -5000- 25U (Residential Planned Development); RPD -5000-27U (Residential Planned Development) Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Description of project and setting: This initial study was prepared pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for a Prezone (PRZ), and Annexation (ANX) for the West Creek and West Hills communities. The City of Santa Clarita proposes the annexation of approximately 1,018 acres of land along the northern boundary of the City of Santa Clarita, north of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area. Setting: The proposed project consists of approximately 1,018 acres of partially developed land containing approximately 1,717 built residences, a 74,000 square -foot commercial center, one elementary school, a junior high school, and West Creek Park. The partially built project area also includes two undeveloped commercial center sites, approximately 727 residences that have been approved but not yet built, and open space areas. The project is generally located east of the Lockheed Industrial Park, west of San Francisquito Creek and northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the City of Santa Clarita's northerly boundary. The project area is currently located in the unincorporated portion of the County of Los Angeles. West Creek and West Hills Neighborhood The West Creek and West Hills neighborhood is generally located west of Tesoro del Valle Drive and south of Copper Hill Drive and consists of approximately 1,018 acres of partially developed land. The West Creek and West Hills neighborhood was part of Tract Map No. 52455, which was the subdivision that created the neighborhood. This area currently consists of 1,717 completed residential units, a 74,000 square -foot retail center, the West Creek Academy elementary school, Rio Norte Junior High School, and West Creek Park. The neighborhood also includes two undeveloped commercial center sites along Copper Hill Drive as well as 727 residences that have been approved but not yet built. Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Project; The City of Santa Clarita proposes a prezoning of the subject site for the purposes annexation of approximately 1,018 acres of unincorporated territory generally located northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, along the northerly boundary of Santa Clarita. As a part of the annexation, the City proposes a prezone that would designate the project area with City of Santa Clarita zoning and land use designations consistent with the approved General Plan. The project area is contained in the City of Santa Clarita's General Plan and consists of City land use designations that include PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); OS (Open Space). Land use designations would not change as a result of this project. Further, current land use designations are consistent with the built environment in the project area. 3 Master Case 16-011 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 The proposed prezone designations for the annexation area match that of the land use designations as defined by the General Plan and include PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); OS (Open Space). More specifically, the proposed prezone area is shown in Figure 3 and summarized in Table 1.0 below. Table 1.0 PREZONE Prezone Area PI34.86 _Acreages CN _ 45.66 UR2_ 482.51 UR3 _ 85.95 UR4 _ 76.48 UR5 22.18 OS 270.30 The built portions as well as the entitled portions of the project area were developed under the Los Angeles County land use planning policies and the development of the project area was reviewed under Environmental Impact Reports prepared for the West Hills project. 61 Master Case 16.012 Annexation 16.001. Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 All mitigation measures under the previous County certified EIR would be accepted by the City upon annexation with no changes. The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Programs (MMRP) for the West Creek Project are included in the EIR, State Clearinghouse # 1998021052. As mentioned above, the annexation area also includes two undeveloped commercial center sites, approximately 727 residences that have been approved but not yet built. No new development is proposed as a part of this project. The proposed prezone designations reflect the existing development and/or the approved development in the area and are consistent with the approved land use designations within the General Plan. The densities for each of the proposed prezone designations can be summarized as shown in Table 2.0 below. Table 2.0 Prezone _designation _ Density PI Floor Area _Ratio: .5/1 CN Floor Area Ratio: .5/1 �UR2 5 units per acre UR3 _ 11 units per acre UR4 18 units per acre UR5 30 units per acre OS _ 1 unit per 4 acres The developed portions of the project area were built under the Los Angeles County development standards and the development of the project area was reviewed under a separate environmental document. The undeveloped portions of the project area were reviewed under the County of Los Angeles development standards and would comply with these standards, unless otherwise modified by the City. There is no new development proposed with this application to annex the area to the City of Santa Clarita, prezone the project area. Any future development in the area,"that was not already approved by the County of Los Angeles, would be analyzed under a separate environmental review and subject to development standards of the City of Santa Clarita and other responsible agencies. 5 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Surrounding land uses: Located to the northwest of the proposed project site is The neighborhood of Tesoro del Valle and to the north the Angeles National Forest. Located to the east is the San Francisquito Canyon community. To the southeast of the project site is the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, located within the City of Santa Clarita. To the west of the proposed project are the Lockheed Industrial Park. Other public agencies whose Local Agency Formation Commission approval is required: 80 South Lake Avenue #870 Pasadena, CA 91101 6 Mader Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 FIGURE l -- PROJECT BOUNDARY West Creek Annexation BOUNDARY Sdw*M (Exdslino) Sams Clea River -- City or swts ciwft 80 s West Crook Amoxatton Arm (Proposed) Q ftfta4"&-capvftft— MIA 7M Qgdirsi 6rK.bseat �rw�x esF y tfltbY t 1� its a rK Ir+nao[wardAe.w.w«+...+.+o t .: �, Y ter rw errors. ar enin{tNx. t , °' f' .iEt ""- 6 V. 4WIi1FtsW�Mllalls TSl�dt>.sit.+eb >.e.�rTar 6t 4y � w�r t A z l tat + 1 § tg S IV + i RANCH % j '7' rst,.at 7 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 FIGURE 2 — GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS lw;i�WK CIAFCTA West Creek Annexation 0 GENERALPLAN Parew Outwel city of S.16 cw" 5..,dy WV" Creek Artneubon Area (Proposed) 0V,WJ.,d Uw hJ111 C"Vvd Ma. 301A AC."Y'A INAagmaLm"" M—d. ANAW AN "Nawo'so" aw"ama baft brow—Nom0fte. v�m=cw,A%jmrAv4A"NAMO -W UX -c CC CM Wt Kkniful ep 691 0- Sp— , /. I c"W Mi as OS-" pecAfic Plan gj4 NL Sp; SP IRM fees Obi MIMI -0.06&& WA?/ W a I duh HL13WO 02 dL" HU50ft • t.D *.a Nui Pteekkafial URI 2.0 4Lda UR2 60 dula s. ■ URS 11.0 dtWo ■ kW4 • I", to dul. - w 18.0 dLix tM-.k% lgdWa-rrw&30BdU: Y" ,tA0 tc 4i t 8 -1 -2 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 FIGURE 3 -- PREZONE LAND USE DESIGNATIONS RHA West Creek Annexation PRE -ZONE i Perm OuWnae Civ of Sennet Chita Boundary West Creek Amm sbw Are (Proposed) awv 1.ad u.e iaeq �rwtae rw tDtrf I I It I ar � ar�Mn. as dyr.«ue,..d. the iYrrd5rN ClwW duetaatawnaet �' i �*�.`�sa. '�� �e Meartwary of eiedw aa/n-m-sb '' ry t'1tt .i ri�eerb+nvamtfaaw� � rA•�;,�,�,i,tu Y'- �-�':Rx.. p � E J r ming Legend GOFC t.. 040 , i f { i , 9 cc 4w CN CR ►al @P 1 specs 06 +w.0 09" PNn NLW SP f Ural AssMiw" - NUIMI-0.06dula NU2vA2 -0.1 dWa + NU3eM - &2 dL" NUMn4 -Q6 dura .: NUBM5 - 1.0 dols ban ResldYlydel URI -20 &da .. Y URZ-&DdWa UR9-11.0dWa URt•-min.10"a- max 18.0duh <..�L""Y-, ' UM - mn. 10 dins - n ac 30.0 du 1Al?t RF • P,.tAIaYlYf4ht/YOnaI - t.. 040 , i f { i , 9 Master Case 16-011 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 A. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" or "Less Than Significant Impact With Mitigation" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. (] Aesthetics [ ] Agriculture and Forestry [ j Air Quality Resources [ ] Biological Resources [ ] Cultural Resources [ ] Geology /Soils [ J Greenhouse Gas Emissions (] Hazards & Hazardous Materials [ j Hydrology/Water Quality (J Land Use/Planning [ ] Mineral Resources [ ] Noise [ ] Population/Housing [ j Public Services [ ] Recreation [ ] Transportation/Traffic [ J Utilities/Service Systems [ J Mandatory Findings of Significance B. DETERMINATION On the basis of this initial evaluation: [X] I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. [ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. [ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. [ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact' or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect (1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and (2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. [ ] 1 find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required, Signature g - k Davi etersan, Associate Planner February , 20I6 Signature _..___ Join w, Senior Planner fe4ua4l�2016 10 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 C. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact 1. AESTHETICS - Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? [ ] [ } [x] [ ) b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not [) [ } [X] [ ) limited to, identified ridgelines, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of [ ] [ ] [X} [ ] the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare that would [ ] [ ] [X] [ ) adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? II. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES — In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Department of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state's inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment project; and forest carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources Board. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of [ ] [ ] [ ] [X) Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] Williamson Act contract? c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] land (as defined in Public Resources Code Section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code Section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code Section 51104(g))? d) Result in the loss of forestland or conversion of forestland to [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] non -forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due [ ] [ ] [ ) [x) to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to nonagricultural use or conversion of forestland to non -forest use? 11 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact III. AIR QUALITY — Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any [ ] [ J [X] [ ] criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions that exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of [ ] [ ] [X] [ J people? IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES — Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special -status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or US Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or US Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? 12 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 1016 Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting [ ] [ ] [ I [XI biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat conservation [ J [ ] [fl [ l plan, natural community conservation plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? g) Affect a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) as identified on the City of Santa Clarita ESA Delineation Map? [ 1 I l [ l [X] V. CULTURAL RESOURCES — Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a [ ] historical resource as defined in Section 15064.52 b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an [ ] archaeological resource pursuant to Section 15064.5? c) Directly or indirectly destroy or impact a unique [ ] paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of [ ] formal cemeteries? VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS — Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse [ ] effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on [ ] the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? [ ] iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? [ ] iv) Landslides? [ ] b) Result in substantial wind or water soil erosion or the loss of [ ] topsoil? _ 13 [ l [xl [ ] [ l [XI [ I [ 1 [x] [ ] [ l [XI [ I [ l [XI [ I [ ] [ I [XI [ ] [XI [ I [I [I [Xl [] [I [XI [ I [XI [ I Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS — Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emission, either directly or indirectly, [ ] [ ] Less Than that may have a significant impact on the environment? Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that [ ] [ J [x) [ ] would become unstable as a result of the project, and materials? potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, [x] [ ] through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions subsidence, liquefaction, or collapse? involving explosion or the release of hazardous materials into d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic [ J [ ] [ ) [x) tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? f) Result in a change in topography or ground surface relief [ ] [ ] [x) [ ] features? g) Result in earth movement (cut and/or fill) of 10,000 cubic yards [ ] [) [x] [ l or more? h) Involve development and/or grading on a natural slope greater [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] than 10% natural grade? i) Result in the destruction, covering, or modification of any [ ] [ ] [x] [ J unique geologic or physical feature? VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS — Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emission, either directly or indirectly, [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] that may have a significant impact on the environment? b) Conflict with the adopted Climate Action Plan or other [ ] [ ) [x] [ ] applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases? VIII, HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS — Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment [) [ ] [x] [ ] through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving explosion or the release of hazardous materials into the environment (including, but not limited to oil, pesticides, chemicals, fuels, or radiation)? 14 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962,5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within 2 miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildiands? Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant Impact Mitigation Impact [ ] I ] [x] IX. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY — Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or [ ] area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or [ ] area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off- site? 15 I ] Ix] I) [x] [] [ ] Ix] I I [ ] [x] I I [ l [x] [ ] Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? t) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? k) Result in changes in the rate of flow, currents, or the course and direction of surface water and/or groundwater? 1) Other modification of a wash, channel creek, or river? Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact [J I [x] [l X. LAND USE AND PLANNING — Would the project: a) Disrupt or physically divide an established community (including a low-income or minority community)? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan, natural community conservation plan, and/or policies by agencies with jurisdiction over the project? XI. MINERAL AND ENERGY RESOURCES — Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan, or other land use plan? 16 [ l E ] [x] [] [] El Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 1016 17 Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact c) Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and inefficient [ ] [ J [ J [x] manner? XII. NOISE — Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess [ ] [ ] [x] [ 1 of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne [ ] [ ] [x] [ J vibration or groundborne noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the [ ] [ ] [x] [ J project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise [ ] [ ] [x] [ J levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where [ ] [ ] [ ] [x] such a plan has not been adopted, within 2 miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the [ ] [ J [) [X] project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? XIII. POPULATION AND HOUSING — Would the project: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating I ] [ ] [ ] [x] the construction of replacement housing elsewhere (especially affordable housing)? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the [ ] [ j [ ] [xJ construction of replacement housing elsewhere? 17 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact XIV. PUBLIC SERVICES — Would the project result in: a) Substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for any of the public services: i) Fire protection? [ ] (] [ ] [x] ii) Police protection? (] [ ] (x] ( ] iii) Schools? [ J [ ] [ ] [x] iv) Parks? [ ] ( ] [x] [ ] v) Other public facilities? [ ] [ ] [X] [ ] XV. RECREATION — Would the project: a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Include recreational facilities or require the Construction or [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? XVI. TRANSPORTATIONITRAFFIC — Would the project: a) Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance, or policy [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] including, but not limited to, level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an (] [ ] [ ] [x] increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? 18 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] related to solid waste? 19 Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., (] [ ] [ ] [x] sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? [ ] [ I [x] [] f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding [ ] [ ] [x] [] public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities? XVII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS — WouId the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable [) (] [x] [ ] Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new stormwater [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project [ ] [) [x] [ ] from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider [ ] [ ] [x] (] which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? f) Be served by a Iandfill with sufficient permitted capacity to [ ] [ ] [x] [] accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations [ ] [ ] [x] [ ] related to solid waste? 19 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16.001 February 9, 2016 Less Than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant Impact With Significant No Impact Mitigation Impact Impact XVIII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE: a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but [ ] [ ] [ ] [x] cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.) e) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause [ ] [ ] [ ] [x] substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Master Case 16-01.2 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 D. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND/OR EARLIER ANALYSIS Section and Subsections I Evaluation of Impacts 1. AESTHETICS Impacts related to aesthetics that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project consists of the annexation, prezone, for the West Creek and West Hills neighborhoods, which consist of approximately 1,018 acres of land under the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County. The annexation area is partially developed with approximately 1,717 completed residences, a 74,000 square foot commercial center, one elementary school, ajunior high school, and West Creek Park. The project proposes no new development, however, uses that have already been approved but have yet to be built include but are not limited to 727 residences, and two commercial centers. Prior to development of additional uses within the undeveloped areas, the design of any new development would be subject to the architectural design guidelines and conditions of approval previously established under the County of Los Angeles. Where applicable, new construction may be subject to the City's architectural design guidelines. The annexation area is surrounded by and includes several ridgelines. However, no new development is proposed on any of these ridgelines and any future development near these ridgelines would be subject to the City of Santa CMta Ridgeline Preservation Ordinance, Therefore no significant impacts on a scenic vista are anticipated as a result of the project. The proposed land use designations would not substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, primary/secondary ridgelines, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway. Although ridgelines are located within the annexation area, no new development would occur as a part of this project. Approximately 727 residences that have been previously approved, have not yet been built. The eventual construction of these residences will change the existing aesthetic environment. A previous environmental review has been conducted on these unbuilt residences. Impacts related to scenic resources are anticipated to be less than significant. The proposed project would not substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings. The West Creek and West Hills area is partially built out with the exception of 727 residences and two commercial centers, all of which was analyzed as part of the environmental review conducted for the West Creek Project. Impacts related to the existing visual character of the site and its surroundings including new sources of light or glare that may affect day time or night time views are anticipated to be less than significant. II. AGRICULTURE AND 1-11 Impacts related to agricultural resources that were not addressed in the FORESTRY RESOURCES previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than si&i.�iticant. There are cunently no agricultural 21 Master Case 16-011 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 III. AIR QUALITY operations being conducted on the proposed project area, and the City of Santa Clarita's General Plan does not identify any important farmlands or any lands for farmland use. In addition, the site is not within an area of Prime Farmland, Farmland of Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland, Grazing Land, or Farmland of Local Importance as identified by the California Department of Conservation, Division of Land Resource Protection on the Los Angeles County Important Farmland 2002 map (California Department of Conservation, Division of Land Resource Protection, 2004). Therefore, the project will not have an impact that could result in conversion of farmland to non-agricultural use. Furthermore, the majority of the project area has been developed with the exception of 727 residences, two commercial center sites, watershed areas, hillside areas and ridgelines. The proposed designations would be consistent with the types of uses and development currently on the project site or previously approved for the site. Furthermore, the City's General Plan does not identify any agricultural land use designations for the project site and there is no Williamson Act contract land for this area. Therefore, the proposed project would not conflict with zoning for agricultural use or Williamson Act contracts, and would have a less than significant impact. Impacts related to air quality that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The project site is located within the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The proposal is to annex 1,018 acres to the City of Santa Clwita and designate the project area with applicable zoning designations consistent with the General Plan, existing development and that would activate upon annexation of the project area. No new development is proposed with this application. However, there are approximately 727 residences, and two commercial centers that have yet to be built within the annexation area. The proposal to annex land to the City, and prezone land consistent with the approved General Plan land use designations. The project would therefore have a less than significant impact with regard to the obstruction of the implementation of the SCAQMD's air quality plan or directly violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation. The proposed project would not directly result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non -attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions that exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors). Impacts related to a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant are considered less than significant. The project area has primarily been developed with uses consistent with the surrounding uses in and outside of the unincorporated County territory and City of Santa Clarita limits. No new develo p� ent is pruhu ed with this 22 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Iv. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES annexation, and prezone. There is however vacant land within the proposed annexation area that may be developed as part of previously approved and entitled projects including approximately 727 residences and two commercial center sites in the West Creek and West Hills neighborhoods. The project as proposed is not anticipated to significantly expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations or directly create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people. No significant impacts related to air quality is anticipated. No further environmental review is necessary. Impacts related to biological resources that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. No new development is proposed with the project. The proposal would not have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. No significant impact on wildlife resource is anticipated to occur. The project entails the annexation of 1,018 acres of land into the City of Santa Clarita and proposes no new development. However, 727 residences, and two commercial centers have yet to be developed in the project area. The proposed project would not have a direct adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service and would not interfere substantially or have significant impacts with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites. Therefore, any impacts would be considered less than significant. No new development is proposed, therefore the project would not have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means. No significant impact related to federally protected wetlands is anticipated. Upon annexation, the project area would be required to comply with all City of Santa Clarita Unified Development Code and City requirements. The proposed zoning designations are consistent with the built environment of the project area and General Plan. The proposal would not conflict with any L.A. County or City of Santa Clarita policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance. Upon annexation, any oak trees in would be protected by the City of Santa Clarita Oak Tree Ordinance and Preservation and Protection Guidelines. The o gsed p -(Ject would not conflict with the provisions of an adopted 23 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. The proposed application would not change any state or federally designation on the project area. No new development is proposed with the prezone application. The proposal would not affect a County -designated Significant Ecological Area (SEA) or Significant Natural Area (SNA) as identified on the City of Santa Clarita ESA Delineation Map. Impacts related to biological resources would be less than significant. No further environmental review is necessary. V. CULTURAL _ Impacts related to cultural resources that were not addressed in the RESOURCES previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project would not directly cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of any known cultural or archaeological resource pursuant to Section 15064.5 of the Government Code. However, future development of still -undeveloped areas within the West Creek and West Hills neighborhoods may have a less than significant impact on an archeological resource pursuant to 15064.5. The proposal would not directly or indirectly destroy or impact a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature. The project is subject to requirements of AB52, Local and Tribal Intergovernmental Consultation Law, including consultation with local Native American tribes identified by the California Native American Heritage Commission. The proposed project is not anticipated to result in a significant impact related to cultural resources VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS Impacts related to geology and soils that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project consists of an annexation of the West Creek and West Hills neighborhoods into the City of Santa Clarita. No new development is proposed with the prezone application. However, development may occur in the near future as part of the completed construction of the West Creek project. Because of the potential of development in the near future, the project may have a less than significant impact with regard to exposure of people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects. The proposed project does not include any new development proposals. The project area has been developed with a range of residential and commercial uses. The development was reviewed and approved by Los Angeles County. Review of impacts from earthquake -related causes on development of the site was included in a separate environmental analysis. No new development is proposed with this project so, the proposal would not directly result in soil erosion. It is anticipated however that in the foreseeable future, development would occur as part of the completed construction of the West Creek project. Any new development that has not already been entitled would be subject to the review of the City and all uni licable devcloinuent code rettuirements. Thereforc, no significant 24 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS VIII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS impacts related to substantial wind or water soil erosion or the loss of topsoil is anticipated on or off site as a result of the project. No impacts related to geologic units or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse are anticipated to occur as a result of this proposal and would not have an impact related to expansive soil creating substantial risks to life or property. No new development is proposed with this project. No change in topography or ground surface relief features or earth movement (cut and/or fill) of 10,000 cubic yards or more or grading on a slope greater than 10% natural grade would occur with approval of this project. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to Geology and Soils. No further environmental review is necessary. The proposed project consists of an annexation of the West Creek and West Hills neighborhoods into the City of Santa Clarita. No new development is proposed within the project area as a part of the prezone application. The prezone reflects approved land use designations under the General Plan and is consistent with the built environment within the project area. The City of Santa Clarita's Climate Action Plan (CAP) identifies the amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted within Santa Clarita and establishes a set of strategies that reduces the amount of greenhouse gases produced in the city to a level that is consistent with the reduction goals identified in the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) (Health and Safety Code Sections 38500, 38501, 28510, 38530, 38550, 38560,38561-38565,38570,38571,38574,38580,38590,38592-38599). The proposed project would be consistent with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. Because goals, objectives, and policies approved under the General Plan are forecast to meet the GHG emission reduction targets mandated by AB 32, development projects that are able to demonstrate consistency with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance are by association consistent with the CAP. Since the project is consistent with the General Plan land use designations and zoning for the project area, impacts relating to GHG emissions are less than significant. Because the project is consistent with the General Plan and the General Plan is consistent with the CAP, the project is consistent with the CAP. The CAP must achieve emission reduction goals consistent with those outlined by the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32). Therefore the proposed project would not conflict with any applicable plans or policies adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of GHG and would be considered less than sig cant. Impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project would not store, use, or generate hazardous materials, and would not utilize any 25 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 acutely hazardous materials. No new development is proposed within the project area as a part of the prezone application. The prezone reflects approved land use designations under the General Plan and is consistent with the built environment within the project area. The application would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. The proposed project would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving explosion or the release of hazardous materials into the environment (including, but not limited to oil, pesticides, chemicals, fuels, or radiation). No new development is proposed as part of this project. The proposed project does not propose any new development and the project would not store, use, or generate substantial amounts of hazardous materials, and would not utilize any acutely hazardous materials. Therefore, impacts are considered less than significant. No impact related to a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment would occur with the prezone application. The project area is not located within an airport land use plan nor is it within two miles of a public airport or public use airport. The prezone would not result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area. The project area is not within the vicinity of a private airstrip. The prezone would not result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area. No new development is proposed with this project. The proposal would not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan. The proposed project does not propose any development and would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands. The prezone would not expose people to existing sources of potential health hazards (e.g. electrical transmission lines, gas lines, oil pipelines). Impacts related to hazards or hazardous materials are not anticipated to be significant. No further environmental review is accessary. IX. HYDROLOGY AND Impacts related to hydrology and water quality that were not addressed in WATER QUALITY the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed annexation and prezone would not violate unv water quality standards or waste dischoq 26 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 requirements. No new development is proposed. The project would not substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted). The proposed City of Santa Clarita zoning and General Plan designations would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site. The project would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site because no new development is proposed as a part of this application for annexation. No new development is proposed, therefore, this project would not create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff. No further environmental review is necessary. The project would not otherwise substantially degrade water quality in the project area because the proposed zoning and General Plan designations would be consistent with the existing development and land use planning in the project area. No new development is proposed with this application. The application would not place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map and the proposed project would not place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows. The project would not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam. No new development is proposed. The project would not create inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow in the project area. No new development is associated with this prezone application. No changes in the rate of flow, currents, or the course and direction of surface water and/or groundwater would occur. No modification of a wash, channel creek or river is proposed. No impact would result from the proposed annexation, and prezone. 27 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 The proposed project would result in a less than significant impact to Stormwater Management. The project consists of no new development, however prior to annexation, the property owners would have to elect to pay an annual City of Santa Clarita Stormwater Drainage Fee. The City's stormwater program provides street catch -basin cleaning a minimum of once a year, thereby reducing trash, debris, and potential neighborhood flooding. Furthermore, because no new development is proposed as a part of this project, the proposed annexation would not create any impacts to Stomwater Management of any of the following ways: i) No potential impact of project construction and project post -construction activity on storm water runoff ii) No potential discharges from areas for materials storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle or equipment maintenance (including washing), waste handling, hazardous materials handling or storage, delivery areas or loading docks, or other outdoor work areas iii) No significant environmentally harmful increase in the flow velocity or volume of storm water runoff iv) No significant and environmentally harmful increases in erosion of the project site or surrounding areas v) No storm water discharges that would significantly impair or contribute to the impairment of the beneficial uses of receiving waters or areas that provide water quality benefits (e.g. riparian corridors, wetlands, etc.) vi) The proposal would not cause harm to the biological integrity of drainage systems, watersheds, and/or water bodies vii) Provisions for the separation, recycling, and reuse of materials both during construction and after project occupancy is not necessary. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to hydrology and water quality. No further environmental review is X. LAND USE AND The proposed project consists of an annexation of the West Creek and West PLANNING Hills neighborhoods into the City of Santa Clarita. No new development is proposed within the project area as a part of the prezone application. The prezone reflects approved land use designations under the General Plan and is consistent with the built environment within the project area. Impacts related to land use and planning that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The project does not propose any new development with this annexation, and prezone, The proposed open space, commercial and residential zoning designations would be consistent with the existing development and County land use planning in the project area, as well as the development surrounding the project area. The proposed project would not conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan, natural community conservation plan, and/or policies by aencic4 with jurisdiction over the�>rcr�uct, such as the Amity Corps of Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 Engineers, or the California Department of Fish and Game's jurisdiction over San Franeisquito Creek because the proposal would not change the applicable state or federal designations in the project area. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to land use and olanninrt. No further environmental review is necessary. XI. MINERAL AND Impacts related to mineral and energy resources that were not addressed in ENERGY RESOURCES the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state. No further environmental review is necessary. The proposed prezone would not result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan and would not use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and inefficient manner. No further environmental review is necessary. No impact related to mineral and energy resources is anticipated. No further environmental review is necessary. XII. NOISE Impacts related to noise that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project proposes no new development and therefore there would be no exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the City's General Plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies. Furthermore, because no new development is proposed with the annexation, there would be no exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundbome noise levels. The project would not create a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project. No new development is anticipated with this prezone application, therefore a substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project would not occur. The project area is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, therefore, the prezone would not expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels. The project area is not within the vicinity of a private airstrip and would not expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels, No irnpact related to noise is antici titad No further environmental 29 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, February 9, 2016 Initial Study 16-001 is necessary. XIII. POPULATION AND Impacts related to population and housing that were not addressed in the HOUSING previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. No new development is proposed with the prezone. The annexation area currently consists of approximately 1,717 completed residences, with another 727 residences approved but not yet built. The project area contains and is surrounded by infrastructure that is adequate for the existing and previously approved residential and commercial development by Los Angeles County in the project area. The proposed residential and commercial designations would be consistent with the existing development and uses in the project area. The application would not displace existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere (especially affordable housing). The proposed residential and commercial designations would not displace people, necessitating the construction or replacement housing elsewhere, as the proposal would be consistent with the existing uses and County- approved development in the project area. No impact related to population and housing is anticipated. No further environmental review is nece_sse _. XIV. PUBLIC SERVICES Impacts related to public services that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The proposed project would not create any significant adverse impacts to public services. School district and many government services will remain unaffected. A fire station is located along Copper Hill Drive, near Camino Del Arte. The annexation area will experience an increase in police patrols and decrease in non-emergency response time due to the City's increased police service levels under its contract with the L.A. 'County Sheriff's Department. Upon annexation, the responsibilities for road maintenance, streetlight patrols and maintenance of parks would transfer to the City. . The annexation would result in a negotiated tax transfer between the City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles which would be used to partially fund public services. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to public services. No further environmental review is ncces"ar . XV. RECREATION Impacts related to recreation that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. No new development is proposed with the proposed project that would cause direct increase in usage of existing parks and recreational facilities. However, payment of lower parks and recreation program fees by residents within the project site once they are annexed to the City of Santa Clarita may increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other City recreational facilities that may cause a minor impact on these facilities. 30 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 The proposed project does not include new development of residential units that would require park development fees or implementation of new recreational facilities. The proposed annexation area does include West Creek Park located adjacent to Rio Norte Junior High School, which is in good condition. The park site and its associated impacts have been analyzed as part of the West Creek project. It is not anticipated that there would be any additional adverse physical effects as a result of annexation these park sites. Upon annexation, the responsibility for maintenance of parks would transfer to the City. Impacts related to the expansion or upgrade of recreational facilities or parks is considered less than significant. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to recreation. No further environmental review is neccs5,jry_ _ —_�......_______.__ — p,�.__—__ �—. _ — XVI. TRANSPORTATION! Im acts related to trans nation/traffic that werenot addressed in the TRAFFIC previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The project site has been developed with residential, commercial and open space uses which were analyzed under separate environmental documents. The prezone would not cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections.). No new development is proposed, therefore, the prezone would not exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways. The project would not result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks. No new development is proposed, therefore, the application would not substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment). No new development is proposed with this application. The project area is adjacent to existing infrastructure and City of Santa Clarita incorporated land. The prezone would not result in inadequate emergency access. No new development is proposed with the prezone, therefore, the proposal would not result in inadequate parking capacity. Upon annexation, the City may construct new bus stops and improvements to existing bus stops. This may have a minor impact; however, impacts are anticipated to be less than significant. Upon annexation, the City may make improvements to sidewalks and bike lanes. These improvements would reduce hazards and barriers for 31 Master Case 16-012 Annexation 16-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 9, 2016 XVII. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS pedestrians impacts are anticipated to be less than significant. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to transportation and traffic. No further environmental review is necessary. Impacts related to utilities and service systems that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. The project would not exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board, as the site is already developed. No new development is proposed with this, annexation and prezone. Therefore, this application would not require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, that have not already been considered, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects. The project would not require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects because no new development is proposed. Impacts related to water supply that were not addressed in the previously certified EIR that are attributable to the proposed project are considered to be less than significant. Water supply was previously evaluated as part of the West Creek project mitigation measures are identified in the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for each project, and included in Appendix A. The proposed prezone does not include any new development, and therefore, will not result in significant impacts to water supply. Prior to the recordation of a final map for the remaining undeveloped portions of the annexation area, the developer(s) will have to obtain a will -serve letter from the area's water service provider. Compliance with this requirement and with the project's mitigation measures will not result in significant impacts. The project would not result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves the project that it does not have adequate capacity to serve existing and projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments. Under the West Creek EIR, mitigation measures are identified to reduce solid waste disposal. The project area is currently served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project site's construction -related solid waste disposal needs. However, the EIR identified significant cumulative impacts on solid waste as a result of both projects, due to the fact that landfill space is finite and that other disposal alternatives have not been identified to adequately serve existing and future uses. The proposed prezone would not directly result in a significant i pluict related to solid waste disposal needs. The pro`cet area would be 32 Master Case 16-012 Annexation I6-001, Prezone 16-001, Initial Study 16-001 February 4, 2016 XVIII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE subject to City franchise agreements for both business and residential. Impacts related service by a landfill is considered less than significant. The project area currently complies with federal, state, and County statutes and regulations related to solid waste. Businesses would also become subject to City's Standard Urban Storm water Mitigation Plan (SUSMP) upon annexation. The proposed project would not result in a significant impacts related to utilities and service systems is anticipated. No further environmental review is necessary. The project includes a request for a prezone for the purpose of annexation and does not propose any new development that has not already been reviewed and approved under Los Angeles County. The proposed project would not have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory. Any future development would he reviewed by the City to ensure compliance with all previously approved development and environmental standards and design guidelines, including mitigation measures as required by the County. Therefore, the project would not result in a significant impact related to degradation of the quality of the environment or habitat of fish and wildlife species. The project does not propose new development and would not have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable. Any new development that has not already been approved would go through a design review process and would have to adhere to the development standards and the City's General Plan. Therefore, the project would not result in a significant impact. The proposed project would not include any new development. The project consists of a prezone for the purpose of annexation and would not cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly. The proposed project would not result in a significant impact related to the Mandatory findings of significance. No further environmental review is 33 RESOLUTION NO. P 16-05 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE PROJECT AND APPROVE MASTER CASE NO. 16-012 REGARDING PREZONE 16-001, FOR THE PURPOSE OF PREZONING APPROXIMATELY 1,018 ACRES OF LAND GENERALLY LOCATED WEST OF THE LOCKHEED INDUSTRIAL PARK, NORTHWEST OF THE VALENCIA 2 SPECIFIC PLAN AREA AND WEST OF SAN FRANCISQUITO CREEK, ALONG THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY OF THE EXISTING CITY OF SANTA CLARITA CITY LIMITS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ANNEXATION THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. FINDINGS OF FACT. The Planning Commission does hereby make the following findings of fact: a. On May 21, 2010, the City conducted an annexation survey of the West Creek/West Hills, and Copperstone neighborhoods. Survey cards were mailed to approximately 740 property owners. b. The results of the annexation survey of the West Creek/West Hills and Copperstone neighborhoods concluded that 20% of those surveyed, responded to the survey. Of those who responded, 92% were in support of annexation and 8% did not support annexation. c. At their regular meeting on July 20, 2010, the Planning Commission adopted Resolution 10-24, recommending that the City Council approve Master Case 10-048, initiating the annexation of the West Creek, West Hills, Tesoro del Valle and Copperstone communities. d. On December 14, 2010 the City Council- directed staff to proceed with an application to LAFCO for the Copperstone area only. The Copperstone area was formally annexed into the City on June 14, 2012. e. In late 2015, the Newhall Land Company (Newhall Land), the developer of the project, indicated to the City of Santa Clarita that they were in favor of the City of Santa Clarita proceeding with the annexation of the West Creek and West Hills neighborhood. f. City staff is currently in process of conducting a survey of property owners within the project area. g. The project area is located adjacent to the northern boundary line of the City of Santa Clarita, northwest of the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area and includes the communities generally known as West Creek and West Hills. Resolution P16-05 Master Case 16-012 Page 2 of 4 h. The project area consists of 1,018 acres of land contiguous to the corporate limits of the City of Santa Clarita on the southern boundary of the project area, as shown on Exhibit A. i. The project area is partially built out with approximately 1,717 residential units with another 727 residential units to be built. One existing 74,000 square -foot commercial center and two vacant commercial center sites are located along Copper Hill Drive. The proposed annexation area also includes one elementary school, a junior high school, and West Creek Park. No new development is proposed with this proposal. The land use to the west of the project consists of the Lockheed Industrial Park, within the City of Santa Clarita. The land use to the north of the proposed annexation area consists of the Tesoro del Valle community and the Angeles National Forest, within the County of Los Angeles. The land to the south of the proposed annexation area is the North Valencia 2 Specific Plan area, located in the City of Santa Clarita. The area to the east of the proposed annexation includes the Northpark community. k. Currently, the project area is designated PI (Public Institution); CN (Neighborhood Commercial); UR2 (Urban Residential 2); UR3 (Urban Residential 3); UR4 (Urban Residential 4); UR5 (Urban Residential 5); and OS (Open Space) in the General Plan. 1. Prezone 16-001 would be consistent with the zoning currently in place within the project area and is consistent with the General Plan. in. On February 9, 2016, an Initial Study was prepared for Prezone 16-001 for the West Creek and West Hills communities. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Initial Study concluded that no significant adverse environmental impacts were associated with the project and a Negative Declaration was prepared. n. The environmental document has been circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public for a 21 -day public review period from February 9, 2016 through March 1, 2016, and posted with the County Clerk. o. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on this issue on March 1, 2016. This public hearing was held at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita. At the hearing, the Planning Commission considered the staff presentation, the staff report, the Negative Declaration prepared for the project, and public testimony on the proposal. p. Public participation and notification requirements pursuant to Sections 65090, 65391, and 65854 of the Government Code of the State of California were duly followed. Resolution P16-05 Master Case 16-012 Page 3 of 4 SECTION 2. CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT FINDINGS. The Planning Commission has reviewed and considered the Initial Study prepared for the project and finds and determines as follows: a. The Planning Commission, hereby finds that the proposed Negative Declaration prepared in connection with PRZ 16-001, and Annexation 16-001, has been prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act, has been reviewed and considered by the Planning Commission, and reflects the independent judgment of the Planning Commission and that based on the Initial Study and the entire record of proceedings, there is substantial evidence that the project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Therefore, the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council adopt the Negative Declaration for the project as included in the agenda packet for the March 1, 2016 Planning Commission Meeting. The Director of Community Development is hereby designated as the custodian of the documents and other materials which constitute the record of proceedings in this matter. Copies of the proposed Negative Declaration, and all documents referenced in the proposed Negative Declaration are available for review at Santa Clarita City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 120, Santa Clarita, California, during normal business hours. SECTION 3. PREZONE FINDINGS. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the Planning Commission hereby recommends that the City Council find as follows: a. The Prezoning is required under Section 56375(a)(3) of the Government Code in that prior to the Local Agency Formation Commission taking an action on an annexation, annexing land must be prezoned by the annexing city. b. The proposed Prezone 16-001 amending the City of Santa Clarita Zoning Map is consistent with General Plan zoning designations and existing development entitlements for the subject site; and c. The proposed Prezone 16-001 is consistent with the objectives of the Unified Development Code in that it implements the goals and objectives of the General Plan and guides the future growth of the City in that it meets the development policies of the City of Santa Clarita. SECTION 4. The Planning Commission recommends that the City Council hereby adopt the Negative Declaration prepared for the project and approve Master Case 16-012 for Prezone 16-001 as described in Sections 1 through 3 above. SECTION 5. The Planning Commission Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution and certify this record to be a full, complete, and correct copy of the action taken. Resolution P16-05 Master Case 16-012 Page 4 of 4 PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 1st day of March, 2016. DENNIS OSTROM, CHAIRPERSON PLANNING COMMISSION ATTEST: JASON CRAWFORD, SECRETARY PLANNING COMMISSION STATE OF CALIFORNIA } COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) I, Jason Crawford, Interim Planning Commission Secretary of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that, the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 1 st day of March, 2016 by the following vote of the Planning Commission: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: NOES: COMMISSIONERS: ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: PLANNING COMMISSION SECRETARY EXHIBIT A: PROJECT BOUNDARY ' IMA CLAIMA West Creek Annexation_. BOUNDARY i •� �� Prks (Existing) Scrods (Existing) f Parw Oumnes w_ Santa Curs River City of Santa Ctarta Boundary e WiM Crook Ann,"&Wrt Arca (Proposed) " < ,. A hNst tlra: 0o"oft Jan. amt. cavntr Of t=AM*Jex Ali rte nArf". 011, rtr cxv et sinm Dara eas errt errant �.'' tmm a taa r..t the seauragdtM Wts arrlaaturrrxroMin � IUalRy br airr �r'rM9 tK Ont@iJalYt ✓ �, "er. u'.I"�tlSL €Sjtxil4Fti r.a4�.rSw�rrN M+wY+Ma.J Ft6 J a tuo rwrta juloot _ WaYxt Ck'iait V d k, 0ACY~, t...jr t tts.TrJy {y:j EXHIBIT B: GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS SANT CLARITA [O�D West Creek Annexation GENERAL PLAN Pamei Outlines City of Santa CIM1. Boundary West Creek Annexation Area (Proposed) OVOV land Use Poky (Adopted M 10111 A PMON Ol4: Coo"Iffm Jan. 1014 County of td Angeles. Ak dghts re emd. iW 7ID 0 WCRai The Clty of Sams Oatita does not warrant the accutxy of she data and i ssumas no LebWly for airy <rtIXs IX ofhuons. 1tlPxaecnUsltaolat<timrllaeaena arrwan.nm MX -C T` ± MX -N cc CN CR fidUstrtdl aP I Open Space O -NF 0S OS-BLM Specific Plan NL SP; SP ural Residential NU 1lRR 1 - 0.05 dura NU2iRR2 - 0.1 dura NU3/RR3 - 02 dula NUNRR4 - 0.5 dela NLWwPR5 - 1.0 dWa rban Residential UR f - 20 dela UR2 - 50 d Wa UR3 - 11 A dura UR4 -min. 1D dula -max 18,0 duo URO - mm, 10 dula - max. 30.0 min's P1 - Pubw nY"'li B<P131 Nfl1MiA�t' RANGN Rb 71. ' r. A� Y VAN t � a EXHIBIT C: PROPOSED PREZONE i hU(-N CC West Creek Annexation CN .,.,... 4 ' PRE -ZONE industrial OP z pen Spam OJ4f Paroei Outlines 0s City of Santa Clarila Boundary NLaP; 9P Wast Geek Annexation Area (Proposed) Rural Residential oww land use r1wKy{pdepWl luno "Ill lonral dam. Coorr'6aht JAM-idli oeurrcydlosAmir AJl r.y+a ro�rvW. •y —•,,,f "', 4 no atyol5arOalN=does nor rva/rarrr em sso a sm r..s � 014ucad rap alta and aswmss rw t tlae _ �, IIaOMN for any arrora a oinesuons. roan Residential 41/rslrr�r1W47oasJMtirr-ft.�raa+� n•+,n,w,wd �, , UR3. 11.0 duh oning Legend ommeroial mx-c 77 URS - men. t4 duh - maX 30.0 Merl d); ? sddMr w1'1 T '........... i hU(-N CC CN .,.,... ' CR industrial OP z pen Spam OJ4f 0s 084KM pecifio Plan NLaP; 9P Rural Residential NUtIRRt - 003 Will NUVRR2 - 0.1 dda NU31RR3 - 02 duh NUVRRa - 04 dWa NU51RR5 - i A data .., roan Residential URI - 2.0 duo UR2.5.0 dWa UR3. 11.0 duh URa - Mtn 10 dura - mat 18.0 WO URS - men. t4 duh - maX 30.0 Merl PI . Publonsrl Wonal RO .I►�t P' s� s f ' SSS'► r eza,. r s ate { COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION "Parks Make Life Betterl" February 18, 2016 Mr. David Peterson City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department 23920 Valencia Blvd Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Dear Mr. Peterson: John Wicker, Acting Director Sent via email: dpeterson @ santa-clarita.com WEST CREEK[ WEST HILLS ANNEXATION INITIAL STUDY/ NEGATIVE DECLARATION MASTER CASE NO. 16-012 The proposed project has been reviewed for potential impacts on the facilities of this Department. Please see below our comments: • According to the LA County Regional Trail System, there is an existing multi -use (hiking, equestrian, and mountain biking) trail, the Cliffie Stone Trail, which is located within the proposed annexation area (refer to attached aerial map). The Cliffie Stone Trail provides connectivity to and parallels the San Francisquito Creek and travels south with connections to existing City of Santa Clarita trails. Thank you for including this Department in the review of this document. If you have any questions regarding County trails, please contact Olga Ruano at (213) 351-5141 or oruano@parks.lacounty.gov. If you have any other questions, please contact me at (213) 351-5127 orjyorn@parks.lacounty.gov. Sincerely, Jul . Yom Park Planner JY/ City of Santa Clarita West Creek] West Hills Annexation Enclosure: West Creek Annexation Trail Map c: DPR (N. E. Garcia, K. King, C. Lau, F. Moreno, O. Ruano, F. Parducho) Planning and Development Agency • 510 South Vermont Ave - Los Angeles, CA 90020-1975 • (213) 351-5198 �Oftod ir Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning Planning for the Challenges Ahead February 29, 2016 David Peterson City of Santa Clarita Sent via e-mail to dpaterson@santa-cladta.com Richard 1. t3ruckncr Dircctor SUBJECT: NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ANNEXATION 16.001, PREZONE 16-x001, AND INITIAL STUDY 16-001 Dear Mr. Peterson, The Department of Regional Planning provides the following comments on the subject project, which concerns the West Creek/West Hills project area previously approved by the County. Mitloation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) The City of Santa Clarita should assume responsibility for implementing and enforcing the MMRP as approved by the County for the West Creek/West Hills project. Consistency of Land Use Desianations — One Valley One Vision compared to Santa Clarita General Plan) • Santa Clarita's proposed land use designations are consistent with the County's existing designations In terms of density/intensity and use types. • Although there initially appeared to be differences In the permitted densities (see table below), upon further analysis County staff no longer believe this to be the case. The One Valley One Vision (OVOV) designations were done prior to build -out of the West Creek/ West Hills project, and so were based on an overall average density. Now that the project is substantially built out, It appears that the City was able to calculate the specific densities of certain housing types and apply more relevant densities (UR3, UR4, UR5). These proposed designations are therefore more refined/specific to their respective sub -areas. Location LA County / OVOV, Land Use Desionation City of Santa Clarita General Plan Land Use Designation Area west of Copper Hill Drive H2 0-2 du/ac UR2 5 dulac Area east of Copper Hill Drive H18 9-18 du/acy UR3, UR4, UR5 10-30 du/ac Protections for Slanificant Natural Features • The County would like to ensure that significant natural features (Including oaks, ridgellnes, hillsides, and ecological areas) are subject to substantially the same, or better, protections 320 West Temple Street - Los Angeles, CA 91)012 - 213-9"1-6411 - FaN: 313.6:6-04131 - TDD: 213-617-2292 City of Santa Ciarita February 29, 2016 Page 2 as they are currently. County staff Is of the opinion that the City's regulations would provide sufficient protection for these features. The land within the County -designated Santa Clara River Significant Ecological Area (SEA) Is believed to have already been dedicated as open space In perpetuity; the City should ensure this Is the case. Santa Clarity should maintain the connectivity of the SEA and avoid any activities that could inhibit wildlife movement through these corridors. The City should adopting all mitigation measures of the West Creek EIR to protect connectivity and wildlife movement for the SEA. Further Actions Reaulred if Annewlon Is Approved If the proposed annexation is approved: • MMRP funds associated with the West Creek/West Hills project should be refunded from the County to the applicant. • Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA ) allocations for this area wilt need to be transferred from the County to the City of Santa Clarita, If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at 213-874-3426 or at gnatoll0planning,lacgunty,gov. Our offices are open Monday through Thursday from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Si cerely, ,�" M - 4 0, Gina M. Natoli, MURP, AICP Supervising Regional Planner GMN:MT:JD:gmn:mt COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES Public Health + K CYNTHIA A. HARDING, M.P.H. Interim Director BOARD OF i;UPERV180R6 Hilda L. Soils JEFFREY D. GUNZENHAUSER, M.D., M.P.H. First District Interim Health Officer Mork Ridley-Thomas Second District ANGELO J. BELLOMO, REHS, CEP shells Kuehl Deputy Director for Health Protection Third Oletdot Don Knobs TERRI S. WILLIAMS, REHS Fourth District Acting Director of Environmental Health Michael D. Antonovich Fath Dieina 5050 Commerce Drive Baldwin Peek, CalHomla 81706 TEL (626) 430-5100 • FAX (626) 813-3000 www.pubilohoolth.lacounty.gov February 23, 2016 Jason Tajima County of Los Angeles -Chief Executive Office Office of Unincorporated Area Services 500 West Temple, Room 723 Los Angeles, CA 90012 SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR COMMENTS – CITY OF SANTA CLARITA WEST CREEK ND AND INITIAL STUDY 16-001 Dear Mr. Tajima, This is in response to your request dated February 16, 2016 for Departmental comments regarding the proposed annexation of the West Creek and West Hills area to the City of Santa Clarita. After a review of the notice of intent to adopt a Negative Declaration for the City of Santa Clarita Annexation and Initial Study 16-001, the Environmental Health Division does not anticipate any significant impacts on County services as a result of the proposal. However, our Drinking Water Program recommends the City of Santa Clarita consults with the State Water Board's Drinking Water Division if and when further development of commercial, residential, and/or public institutions requires assurance of a reliable and safe potable water supply. If you have any questions, please let me know or you may contact me at (626) 430-5130. Very truly yours, //Z— Aura , REHS, M Environmental Health 'ces Manager Liaison for Unincorporated County AW:vw c: David Peterson, DPERTERSON@santa-clarita.com COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES FTRE DEPARTMENT 1320 NORTH EASTERN AVENUE K LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90063-3294 "4r? ME�y~ DARYL L. OSBY FIRE CHIEF FORESTER & FIRE WARDEN February 24, 2016 David Peterson, Assistant Planner 11 City of Santa Clarita Community Development Department 23920 Valencia Boulevard Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Dear Mr. Peterson: NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION, "WEST HILLSIWEST CREEK ANNEXATION", PROPOSES A PREZONE THAT WOULD DESIGNATE THE PROJECT AREA WITH CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ZONING AND LAND USE DESIGNATIONS CONSISTENT WITH THE APPROVED GENERAL PLAN, SANTA CLARITA (FFER 201600020) The Notice of Intent to Adopt a Negative Declaration has been reviewed by the Planning Division, Land Development Unit, Forestry Division, and Health Hazardous Materials Dlvislon of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department. The following are their comments: PLANNING DIVISION: We have no comments at this time. LAND DEVELOPMENT UNIT: The proposed development may necessitate multiple ingress/egress access for the circulation of traffic and emergency response issues. SERVING THE UNINCORPORATED AREAS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY AND THE CITIES OF: AGOURA HILLS CALABASAS DIAMOND BAR HIDDEN HILLS LA MIRADA MALIBU POMONA SIGNAL HILL ARTESIA CARSON DUARTE HUNTINGTON PARK LA PUENTE MAYWOOD RANCHO PALOS VERDES SOUTH EL MONTE AZUSA CERRITOS EL MONTE INDUSTRY LAKEWOOD NORWALK ROLLING HILLS SOUTH GATE BALDWIN PARK CLAREMONT GARDENA WGLEWOOD LANCASTER PALMDALE ROLLING HILLS ESTATES TEMPLE CITY BELL COMMERCE GLENDORA IRWINDALE LAWNDALE PALOS VERDES ESTATES ROSEMEAD WALNUT BELL GARDENS COVINA HAWAIIAN GARDENS LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE LOMITA PARAMOUNT SAN DIMAS WEST HOLLYWOOI BELLFLOWER CUDAHY HAWTHORNE LA HABRA LYNWOOD PICO RIVERA SANTA CLARITA WESTLAKE VILLAG BRADBURY WHITTLER David Peterson, Assistant Planner II February 24, 2016 Page 2 2. The development of this project must comply with all applicable code and ordinance requirements for construction, access, water mains, fire flows, and fire hydrants, 3. Specific fire and life safety requirements for the construction phase will be addressed at the building fire plan check. There may be additional fire and life safety requirements during this time. 4. Every building constructed shall be accessible to Fire Department's apparatus by way of access roadways with an all-weather surface of not less than the prescribed width. The roadway shall be extended to within 150 feet of all portions of the exterior walls when measured by an unobstructed route around the exterior of the building. 5. Fire Department's requirements for access, fire flows, and hydrants are addressed during the building permit stage. 6. All proposals for traffic calming measures (speed humps/bumps/cushions, traffic circles, roundabouts, etc.) shall be submitted to the Fire Department for review prior to implementation. 7. Disruptions to water service shall be coordinated with the County of Los Angeles Fire Department and alternate water sources shall be provided for fire protection during such disruptions. 8. The County of Los Angeles Fire Department's Land Development Unit's comments are only general requirements. Specific fire and life safety requirements will be addressed at the building and fire plan check phase. There may be additional requirements during this time. 9. The County of Los Angeles Fire Department's Land Development Unit appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. FORESTRY DIVISION — OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS: The statutory responsibilities of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department's Forestry Division include erosion control, watershed management, rare and endangered species, vegetation, fuel modification for Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones or Fire Zone 4, archeological and cultural resources, and the County Oak Tree Ordinance. David Peterson, Assistant Planner II February 24, 2018 Page 3 2. The County of Los Angeles Fire Department's Forestry Division has no further comments regarding this project. HEALTH HAZARDOUS MATERIALS DIVISION: 1. The Health Hazardous Materials Division (HHMD) of the Los Angeles County Fire Department has no comment regarding the project at this time. If you have any additional questions, please contact this office at (323) 8804330. Very truly yours, KEVIN T. JOHNSON, ACTING CHIEF, FORESTRY DIVISION PREVENTION SERVICES BUREAU KTJ:ad