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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1990-08-14 - AGENDA REPORTS - EIR TICK CYN PROJECT (2)AGENDA REPORT City Manager Approval / Item to be presented by• (`�/� CONSENT CALENDAR Lynn M. Harris Z W_4wZA- DATE: August 14, 1990 SUBJECT: Authorization for City to Enter Into a Contract Agreement for the Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the "Tick Canyon Project", ANN% No. 1989-05, P2 89-005, VTTM 47326, etal. Resolution No. 90-157 DEPARTMENT: Community Development BACKGROUND: Applications for a prezone, annexation, vesting tentative tract map and related entitlement applications have been filed by the Anden Group and were deemed complete in March, 1990.. Community Development staff has determined, through the initial study process, that.an Environmental Impact Report is required for further analysis of this project. Pursuant to Section 15084, subdivision (a) of the CEQA Guidelines, the Community Development Department solicits proposals from environmental planning consultants for preparation of EIR's at the applicant's expense. Requests for proposals were sent to approximately 15 consultants, and six responses were received. After proposal review and background checks of the three leading consultants, the firm of Environmental Science Associates, Inc. (ESA) was selected. The proposed cost of the.EIR is $102,000. The applicant, The Anden Group, has been advised: and has agreed to deposit -on account the total contract amount. Administrative costs will also be.billed by the City and charged to the applicant. A complete copy of the contract and exhibits is available for review in the City Clerk's Office. City Council approval is needed for the City to enter into a contract with a consulting firm. Staff requests that the Council approve the attached contract agreement. ATTACHMENTS 1. Resolution No. 90-157 :.3pted: Agenda hem:. RESOLUTION NO. 90-157 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT AGREEMENT FOR THE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE ' TICR CANYON PROJECT' WHEREAS, applications for a prezone, annexation, vesting tentative tract map, and related entitlements have been filed with the City of Santa Clarita and were deemed complete in March, 1990; and WHEREAS, determination was made by Community Development staff that the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment and that an Environmental Impact Report was necessary to provide analysis of impacts; and WHEREAS, Section 15084(a) of the Guidelines to the California Environmental Quality Act permits the Draft EIR to be prepared under contract to the Lead Agency; and WHEREAS, a Request for Proposal was sent to 15 qualified environmental planning consultants, six proposals.were received and reviewed by Community Development staff, and a consultant thereafter selected; and WHEREAS, the applicant, The Anden Group, will be responsible for all contract and administrative costs; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita does hereby consent to enter into a contractual agreement with Environmental Science Associates, Inc., for the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the Tick Canyon Project and associated entitlement applications. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of August, 1990. JoAnne Darcy; Mayor ATTEST: Donna L Grindy, City Clerk I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 14th day of August, 1990, by the following vote of the Council: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCILMENBERS: This agreement is made between the City of Santa Clarita, (hereafter "City") and Environmental Science Associates Inc., a California corporation (hereafter "Consultant"): The parties hereto agree as follows: 1. Recitals. This Agreement is based upon the following facts: (a) City desires professional assistance in preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (the "Project") more particularly described in Exhibit A, attached and incorporated herein by reference; (b) Consultant has been selected to perform the Project, being fully qualified and having agreed to do so subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement; and (c) City's legislative body has determined that the public interest, convenience and necessity require the execution of this Agreement. 2. Services. Consultant agrees to perform all services described in Exhibit A. Consultant shall meet and consult with representatives of City at all stages during the conduct of the work required pursuant to this Agreement to assure that the City's designated representative is fully and completely informed as to the nature and extent of the work being performed by Consultant and as to the status and quality of such work. 3. Compensation. City shall compensate Consultant for its services based upon the costs set forth in Exhibit A and incorporated here by reference. The total cost of this contract shall not exceed $102,000.00, which represents the total compensation to be paid to Consultant by City (the "Project Fee") for all work to be done by Consultant pursuant hereto and includes all allowable costs. Such costs shall be reimbursed only if approved by City as to nature, type and amount. The Project Fee shall include the costs of duplication for all reports and documents described in Exhibit A. City shall make progress payments to Consultant in accordance with the approved payment schedule identified in Exhibit A. The project phase invoices shall include a breakdown of the number of hours billed on each task and subtask by the authorized project staff with an identification of the staff person(s) who performed each task and subtask. Within 15 days after receipt of a project phase invoice, City shall either approve such invoice or return it to the Consultant specifying any objections. Invoices shall be paid within 60 days after approval. Upon submission of Consultant's final work products under this agreement, in a scope, nature, and form satisfactory to the City, all final monies shall be paid to the Consultant. -1- 4. Time for Performance. Consultant shall in good faith utilize its best efforts to perform all of the work'required under this Agreement in accordance with the Time Schedule Summary attached as _Exhibit B and incorporated herein by reference. During the preparation of the draft(s) of the EIR, the consultant shall provide a complete response to all staff comments, concerns, and corrections within 15 working days of all comments being received. 5. Consultant Staff. The Consultant Project Staff identified in Exhibit C shall be responsible for completing the activities identified in Exhibit A. Modifications to Consultant's staffing, including subconsultants for this project, shall be made only with the written approval of the City. 6. Status of Consultant. Consultant shall be deemed for all purposes to be an independent contractor in the performance of work pursuant to this Agreement. This Agreement shall not be deemed, for any purpose, to have created between the parties hereto a partnership, joint venture or other relationship other than that of independent contractor insofar as Consultant is concerned. Consultant shall be responsible for obtaining the services of all persons required to perform the work required_by this Agreement, including, but not limited to, such subcontractors as Consultant desires.to employ as such. Consultant shall advise all such subcontractors that the City bears no obligation for the payment of fees for their services or costs incurred and that such are the exclusive obligation of Consultant. 7. Changes. The City and Consultant may make changes in the work only if mutually agreed upon. If such changes cause an increase or decrease in the Consultant's cost of, or time required for, performance of any services under this agreement, whether or not changed by an order, an equitable adjustment in compensation to Consultant shall be made and this agreement shall be accordingly modified in writing. No such change shall be effectuated except in writing, executed by each party hereto, expressing such changes and reducing or increasing Consultant's compensation based upon such change or changes. 8.. Liti ag tion. If City becomes involved in litigation regarding the Project and desires Consultant's assistance or testimony, City shall compensate Consultant for its services according to the normal hourly rates. 9. Ownership of Documents. All documents, studies, surveys, drawings, maps, models, photographs and reports as prepared by Consultant, or any of its subcontractors, pursuant to this Agreement, shall be deemed for all purposes to be the property of the City. All such materials, including originals, shall be transmitted to the City upon completion of the work by Consultant hereunder, or upon sooner termination of this Agreement. No person, including Consultant, shall be permitted to utilize any of the material referred to in this paragraph without City's prior written consent. 10. Indemnity. Consultant does hereby agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Santa Clarita and the respective appointed and elected officers, boards and commissions, agents and employees ("Indemnified Parties") from and against any and all claims and losses, costs or expenses for any damage due to death or injury to a person and injury to any property proximately resulting from any willful misconduct or negligent act or omission of Consultant or any of its officers, employees, servants, agents, or subcontractors in the performance of work pursuant to this Agreement. Liability shall be limited to the amount paid under this contract. Such costs and expenses shall include, but not be limited to, reasonable attorney fees. -2- Consultant does hereby agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Indemnified Parties from and against any damages, liability, loss, costs or expenses which arise out of Consultant's negligent performance of the work under this Agreement provided that such liability, loss, cost or expense is caused by the act or omission of Consultant, or any of its officers, employees, servants, agents, or subcontractors in performance of this Agreement. Consultant's obligation to the Indemnified Parties shall include reasonable attorney fees, costs and expenses incurred by the Indemnified Parties in such defense, if Consultant is found to have been negligent.in performance of work under this Agreement. The provision of liability insurance coverage -as -required by Paragraph 11 of this Agreement shall not affect Consultant's obligations under theindemnity provisions of this Paragraph 10. 11. Insurance. Consultant shall take out and provide, contemporaneously with the commencement of work pursuant to this Agreement, liability insurance coverage in an amount not less than $500,000.00. Such coverage shall be maintained in full force and effect at all times during the term of this Agreement. Consultant.shall take out and maintain in full force and effect during the term of this Agreement all other insurance coverage required by law, including, but not limited to, workers' compensation coverage. All such insurance shall expressly name the City and its agents, officers, and employees as additional insureds. Consultant shall supply to City upon execution of this Agreement, a valid certificate of insurance evidencing the existence of all required insurance coverages. Additional or replacement certificates shall be filed with City evidencing the existence of such coverage at all times during the term of this Agreement. The certificates of insurance shall contain a provision to the effect that the coverage cannot be cancelled or substantially altered or reduced except upon at least thirty (30) days prior written notice to City. 12. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to the completion of the Project, and without cause, in accordance with the following: a. By City upon fifteen (15) working days written notice, mailed first class, postage prepaid, or by personal service to Consultant; and b. By Consultant upon fifteen (15) working days written notice, mailed first class, postage prepaid, or by personal service to City. Notices given pursuant to this paragraph shall be deemed to be effective on the tenth day following the giving of notice of such termination whether mailed or delivered. In the event of termination pursuant to this paragraph, Consultant shall be compensated by City pro rata for work performed as of the day of giving of such notice. 13. Notices. Noticesto be given pursuant to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be personally served upon the party to be notified or shall be deposited in the United States Postal Service, postage pre -paid, certified and registered, and addressed to the parties as follows: -3- A. CITY: Donald M. Williams, Contract Manager Department of Community Development 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 300 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 cc: City Attorney Carl Newton Burke, Williams, and Sorenson 624 W. Grand, 11th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90017 B. CONSULTANT: Environmental Science Associates, Inc. 4221 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 480 Los Angeles, CA 90010-3512 Attention: Roger Rent, Project Manager Except as otherwise provided in Section 12 above, notices given pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed given on the date of personal service or the fifth consecutive calendar day following the deposit of the same in the United States Postal Service, or its successor. The individuals named in this paragraph shall be deemed, for all purposes, to be the representatives of the parties to this Agreement and empowered to act, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, for and on behalf of that party. Either party hereto may, in writing, change the designation of the responsible representative for that party. 14. Construction. This Agreement shall be construed under the laws of the State of California and shall not be construed against, or in favor of, either party by reason of the fact that it was prepared by one party or the other. 15. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and each party acknowledges that it is not relying on any prior,. or contemporaneous, other agreements or representations, oral or written, in entering into this Agreement. 16. Captions. Numerals. and Headings. Gender and Number. The captions, numerals and headings used herein are for the purpose of identification and location of the terms and for ease of reading and shall not be used to alter, amend or otherwise change the plain meaning of the language in the text or the intention of the parties. Wherever gender or number is used, it shall include that gender or number which is appropriate to the context of the language wherein such gender or number is used. 17. Attorneys Fees. Should any party hereto reasonably retain counsel for the purpose of enforcing or preventing the breach of any provision hereof, including but not limited to the institution of any action or proceeding to enforce any provision hereof, for damages by reason of any alleged breach of any provision hereof, for a declaration of such party's rights or obligations hereunder or for any other remedy, then if said matter is adjudicated (which term includes arbitration) the prevailing party shall be entitled, in addition to such other relief as may be granted, to be reimbursed by the losing party for all costs and expenses incurred thereby, including but not limited to reasonable attorney's fees and costs for the services rendered to such prevailing party. -4- 18. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by a writing executed by all of the parties. 19. Counterparts. This Agreement has been executed in two counterparts either of which may be used as an original. One .such counterpart shall be delivered to the Obligee when fully executed and the other to the Obligor when fully executed. 20. Waivers. A waiver of any default of an obligation required by this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of any subsequent default of same, or any other obligation under this Agreement. 21. Time of the Essence. Time is of the essence to this Agreement. 22. Effective Date. The effective date of this Agreement shall be August 15, 1990. 23. Severability. If any portion of this agreement is deemed to be void or is held to be invalid, other sections, or portions thereof, of this Agreement shall remain valid and in force, and shall be interpreted as though the void or invalid portion(s) had not been incorporated herein. 24..Licuidated Damages. Should the Consultant fail to complete the work due solely to the Contractor's performance within 10 days of the time provided for in Exhibit B or within an extended period of time authorized in writing by the City, or as may be allowed due to delays or for additional scope of work as authorized, the City will deduct and retain, out of amounts due and owing and any withheld monies which may be due, as liquidated damages, but not as penalty, the sum of one hundred dollars ($100:00) per day for each and every day that the work period exceeds the total working days allotted following the period agreed upon the completion of the Project or as extended by the City. Should the Consultant complete the work more than 10 days earlier than the time provided in Exhibit B, or more than 10 days earlier than an extended period of time authorized in writing by the City as may be allowed for additional scope of work authorized, the City will pay, as part of the final invoice, the sum of one hundred dollars ($100.00) per day for each and every day that the work is completed prior to the days allotted as stated in Exhibit B or as extended by the City. In no event shall the liquidated damages or incentive exceed five thousand dollars ($5000.00). This Agreement, consisting of six pages and three exhibits attached hereto, has been executed as of the day of August, 1990. WHEREFORE, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed on the dates set opposite their names below: CITY OF SANTA CLARITA Date: By Jo Anne Darcy, Mayor 9 ATTEST: Donna Ll Grindey, City Clerk Date: By Approved as to form: Date: By , President General Counsel INC. As an option, photomontages of anticipated development could be prepared. The project Plan and its relationships to any urban design criteria will be discussed. Views of anticipated development from a number of vantage points will be discussed. The potential for anticipated development to cause light and glare in the area will be discussed. The Specific Plan's design relationship with the downtown core and the downtown expansion area will be discussed. Issues: The project will generate additional traffic in the site vicinity and nearby freeways, and will generate a demand for transit and a demand for parking spaces. The levels of service of nearby intersections could be affected by the project (and by cumulative traffic). During project construction, streets in the project vicinity may experience increased truck traffic. In addition, lane closures on streets immediately adjacent to the site and traffic rerouting may be necessary. Feasible, realistic mitigation measures to alleviate any identified impacts should be included in the project. Tasks: Task 1: Data Collection. An inventory will be made of the existing street system serving the study area, including number of lanes, street widths, traffic control devices, and operational characteristics. Any existing traffic volume data, including 24-hour counts and peak hour intersection tuming'movement counts, will be identified and gathered by the consultant, working with City of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County staff. Any additional pertinent data will also be collected, including previously conducted traffic studies and information regarding planned street improvements within the study area. The following eight locations have been tentatively identified by City staff for detailed intersection capacity analyses: •Soledad Canyon Road and S.R. 14 northbound ramps •Soledad Canyon Road and S.R. 14 southbound ramps (near Shadow Pines) •Soledad Canyon Road and Shadow Pines Boulevard •Soledad Canyon Road and S.R. 14 southbound ramps (near Sand Canyon) •Soledad Canyon Road and Sand Canyon Road •Soledad Canyon Road and Sierra Highway -Sand Canyon Road and S.R. 14 northbound ramps -Sand Canyon Road and Sierra Highway In addition, the following street segments have been identified for roadway capacity analyses: -Shadow Pines Boulevard (project site to Soledad Canyon Road) •Soledad Canyon Road (S.R. 14 interchange near Shadow Pines to Sand Canyon Road) New AM and PM peak period turning movement counts will be conducted at each of the eight intersections as part of this study. New 24-hour machine counts will be conducted at three locations: Shadow Pines Boulevard north of Soledad Canyon Road, Soledad Canyon Road east of Shadow Pines Boulevard, and Soledad Canyon Road west of Shadow Pines Boulevard. Task 2: Existing_ Traffic Conditions. An assessment will be made of existing operating conditions and constraints within the study area. Peak hour levels of service will be quantified at the intersections identified in Task 1. Existing traffic operational problems and congested areas will be identified. Task 3: Forecast Future Traffic Conditions. A series of traffic projections will then be developed, as follows: -Future base conditions, including background traffic growth and cumulative developments within the study area. -Project-generated traffic. -Future conditions with development of the proposed project, including background traffic growth, cumulative developments within the study area, and traffic generated by the project. As part of the above projections, the future traffic generation of the projected land uses within the study area will be forecast and assigned to the street system. The future base conditions will include traffic expected to be generated by other projects either currently under construction or approved for development within a three mile radius of the intersections included in the study. It is anticipated that the cumulative projects to be included in this analysis will be identified by the EIR consultant in conjunction with staff of the City of Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County. Task 4: Traffic Impact Assessment. As assessment will be made of projected operating conditions, and traffic impacts of the proposed project and of the cumulative traffic growth will be identified. This assessment will concentrate on impacts at the major intersections identified in Task 1 and along the major streets in the study area. Intersection levels of service will be projected. A capcity analysis will be conducted for the street segments identified in Task 1 to determine their ability to accommodate the projected future traffic volumes. A traffic signal warrant analysis will be conducted for the Soledad Canyon Road/Shadow Pines Boulevard intersection. The internal circulation plan proposed as part of the project will be evaluated to ensure that it is adequate to accommodate the projected traffic volumes. Issues regarding potential traffic conflict points and constraints created by the proposed single means of access to the project site will be included in this analysis. The potential need for a pedestrian overcrossing at Shadow Pines Boulevard and "A" Street will also be evaluated. Task 5: Mitigation Measures. Appropriate mitigation measures will be developed to alleviate any negative traffic impacts thus identified. Mitigations could include such measures as localized intersection improvements, street widenings or transportation systems management/transportation demand management (TSM/IDM) actions. Potential mitigations will be examined to determine their physical feasibility and effectiveness, and a recommended plan will be developed. Recommended physical improvements will be evaluated from a conceptual planning perspective only (preliminary engineering drawings are not included as part of this workscope). Any unavoidable impacts will be identified., Those improvements which are required to mitigate a direct project -related impact will be identified as such. For locations at which roadway improvements are suggested to mitigate cumulative impacts (i.e. improvements not solely related to the project), the percentage contribution of the project -generated traffic volumes relative to the total projected volumes will be determined. This data could then be used by the City in determining the project's financial responsibility towards implementing the improvements. Task 6: Documentation. A technical report will be prepared which presents the methodology, results, and recommendations of the transportation analysis. This report will meet CEQA specifications. The significant findings of the transportation study will be summarized in the EIR. Issues: The project would generate incidental, short-term increases in dust and exhaust emissions (from heavy equipment) due to grading, excavation and related activities during construction. Such activities would increase suspended particulate concentrations in the immediate project area, though the amount of dust and emissions would depend on the type and scale of activity occurring, and on prevailing wind conditions. No significant impacts are anticipated due to the localized and temporary nature of construction activity and currently established dust control measures. The project would generate additional traffic (approximately 7,000 vehicle trips daily) and exhaust emissions, as well as emissions from natural gas combustion for. building space and water heating. Tasks: - Local and regional climate, meteorology, and topography as they affect the accumulation or dispersal of air pollutants will be briefly reviewed. - Any air -pollution -sensitive land uses or activities that could be affected by the project or by project -related traffic will be identified. - Federal, state, and local regulatory agencies responsible for air quality management will be identified, and federal, state and local air quality policies, regulations, and standards as they pertain to the project will be briefly summarized. - Current air quality conditions and recent trends (past five years) in the project area will be summarized on the basis of the annual air duality monitoring data summaries published by the Air Resources Board. Any existing major sources of air pollution in the vicinity of the project will be identified on the basis of an inspection of the site and its environs, the South Coast AQMD's most recent emissions inventory, discussions with SCAQMD, and other available sources of information. Ambient air quality standards will be identified. SCAQMD projections of future air quality trends over the life of the project, and the assumptions upon which the projections are based, will be discussed. Any agency policies or goals that would apply to the project will be identified. Air emissions resulting from anticipated construction in the project area will be qualitatively described. The potential for project construction to cause violations of state and federal standards will be discussed. Potential affects on any sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the projects will be examined. The potential for air pollutant emissions from project related activities to adversely affect sensitive land uses or activities, or to impede attainment of air quality goals, will be discussed in addition to conformance with the Air Quality Plan. The potential for the combined emissions from project and cumulative development to adversely affect air quality or impede attainment of air quality goals will be discussed. Mitigation measures to reduce both construction -related emissions and emissions will be identified. NOISE Issues: Anticipated construction will result in increased noise levels in the surrounding area. Construction will occur over an extended period of time; noise impacts from construction activities will occur over this time period. Upon completion of anticipated plan development, project -related traffic could increase noise levels along streets in the project vicinity. Tasks: - The existing noise environment will be characterized. Any noise -sensitive land uses or activities in the project area that could be affected by increased traffic noise will be identified. Up to eight 15 -minute noise measurements will betaken during present peak traffic hours. - State and local noise policies, regulations and standards, including the Noise Element of the General Plan, as they pertain to the project will be briefly summarized. - Noise levels during each construction phase, including noise related to any piledriving, will be estimated at the nearest sensitive receptors in the project vicinity. The effect of these noise levels on people will be discussed. - Existing and future noise levels at roadside along up to four road segments that would be affected by motor vehicle traffic generated by the project.will be calculated, and determination will be made as to whether the project would adversely affect adjacent noise -sensitive land uses. - The potential for noise from project or related activities to adversely affect any sensitive land uses or activities, or to conflict with established City noise compatibility standards, will be discussed in addition to conformance with the General Plan Noise Element standards and policies. The potential for the combined noise from the project area and cumulative development to adversely affect any noise -sensitive land uses or activities will be discussed. Mitigation measures to reduce construction nose levels will be identified. GEOLOGY AND HYDROLOGY Issues: The site is subject to severe groundshaking during a seismic event. Landslides are present in the area and the underlying Mint Canyon Formation is known to be prone to landslide activity. Grading of the site for construction of the building pads would result in disruptions, displacements; compaction and overcovering of soils on approximately 50% of the site. Project development will require earth movement estimated to be in excess of 7,000,000 cubic yards and would include leveling of several knolls and low ridges in the vicinity of Tick Canyon Wash. Erosion potential is considered high on the site and in Tick Canyon Wash. Short-term increases in wind and water erosion will occur as a result of grading and construction activity. Potential for long-term wind and water erosion exists on graded slope faces. The existing natural drainage course of the project site is the Tick Canyon Wash. This is identified with a Blueline Stream on the U.S. Geologic Survey map of this area. Implementation of the proposed project would require substantial flood control improvements, including construction of a Concrete channel. Development of the site would increase surface area impervious to water and increase surface water runoff. Loss of permeable area and channelization of the drainage courses would decrease the amount of area available for percolation and groundwater recharge and may produce associated secondary impacts. Construction of the proposed debris channel would decrease the amount of on-site erosion and siltation, but would result in increased erosion downstream due to accelerated water flow. Residential development of the site would increase the surface runoff discharge of urban contaminants into the Santa Clara River. Tasks: The geologic setting of the project area and vicinity will be described, including bedrock types, structures, geologic history and physiographic province, based on published reports and maps of the U.S. Geological Survey and California Divisions of Mines and Geology. The existing topography will be described. Available soil reports will be summarized. Any active or potentially active earthquake faults in the vicinity will be identified, and the distance from them will be noted. The potential magnitude and frequency of earthquakes from identified faults will be assessed. The potential for groundshaking will be discussed and the expected bedrock acceleration due to seismic forces will be quantified. The likelihood of secondary seismic hazards such as liquefaction, ground lurching, lateral spreading and settlement will be examined. Relevant information and policies in the Seismic Safety and Conservation Elements of the General Plan will be discussed. The depth to groundwater and the presence of any substantial aquifers will be identified. Existing drainage will be discussed. The findings of any current or previous geotechnical reports prepared will be summarized. Probable project grading plans, topographic alterations and final elevations and slope gradients will be described. The depths of cuts and.fills the volumes of excavated and emplaced soil, and the amount of material imported to, or removed from, the project area will be reviewed. The location of the disposal site for any materials removed from the site will be identified. The degrees of hazards to structures from seismic groundshaking surface rupture will be assessed. The potential for secondary seismic hazards be evaluated. The project area's drainage plan will be discussed. Feasible measures to reduce impacts, such as general design of erosion control plan, possible relocation of structures and need for further studies will be identified. r • .r :.tri Issues: Project construction may result in a change in the diversity of species or number of some species of plants and animals; and a reduction in the numbers of unique, rare or endangered species of plants and/or animals; and the introduction of new species of plant and/or animals into the area. Site development would require that over 60 percent of the natural vegetation be removed. The site contains plant species from the Chaparral plant community. A Blueline Stream traverses the site. The site ultimately drains into the Santa Clara River which is classified as a Significant Ecological Area (SEA) in the Santa Clarita Valley Areawide General Plan. The SEA contains the Unarmored Threespine Stickleback (UTS), a rare and endangered species of fish, found downstream from the Tick Canyon Wash in the Santa Clara River. The project will result in short- and long-term deterioration of existing biotic communities. Grading of the site for construction of the levees, earthen embankment and residential subdivision will result in the destruction of habitats and creates potential for significant degradation of those remaining. Locally, the project would cause a decrease in wildlife diversity, a reduction in the number of specimens, reduction in area available for future habitation and migration, and cause temporary degradation (overburdening) of surrounding habitats off-site. The project may impact the downstream essential habitat of the UTS. Tasks: - Determine to diversity of plant and/or animals species in the project area. - Identify and unique, rare or endangered species in the project area. - Discuss the potential introduction of new plant or animal species into the area. - Evaluate the impact on the Unarmored Threespine Stickleback (UTS) habitat and proposed a method of preservation for UTS habitat. - Propose mitigation measures to protect other unique, rare and endangered plants. IMORM Issues: The materials of construction and construction labor for anticipated construction would require substantial expenditures of energy, which would be non-renewable. Operations also would consume substantial amounts of electricity, natural gas and gasoline and diesel fuel, along with minor amounts of other energy resources. These demands on energy resources and delivery systems may require increased exploitation of energy resources or expansion of transmission and delivery facilities. The project alone may require new transformers and transfer stations. In combination with other planned, approved, or anticipated development, the project could require expansion of power generating facilities, with attendant increases in environmental impacts such as air pollution and land conversion. Tasks: Utilities serving the project area and planned utility improvements will be identified. The potential, if any, for development of energy resources (i.e., wind energy, solar energy) will be identified. Existing applicable federal, state (i.e., Title 24 Building Energy Conservation regulations), and local energy conservation programs, policies, and regulations will be discussed. On the basis of available generic energy consumption factors, the amount of energy that would be required for construction of the projects will be estimated. Any inefficient or unnecessary uses of energy for construction will be identified. The types of end-use energy required by the project will be described. On the basis of available generic energy consumption factors, the amount of energy that would be required for construction, and the net increase in energy that would be required annually for operation, will be estimated. Unnecessary or inefficient uses of energy proposed will be identified. The annual energy consumption of project -related vehicle travel will be estimated on the basis of total daily vehicle trips, assumed trip lengths for various types of trips, and published estimates of future average vehicle fleet fuel consumption factors. On the basis of estimated energy consumption, the requirement for expansion of generation capacity, or of transmission and distribution facilities, will be evaluated. If such expansion would be required, the indirect environmental impacts of such expansion will be briefly discussed. The project's conformance with State Building Energy Conservation Regulations and Standards (Title 24), and with any local energy conservation programs, policies, or regulations will be discussed. The potential for the combined energy demands of the project and of cumulative development to exceed existing generation or distribution capacity will be discussed. Measures that would reduce energy consumption will be identified. • r : iW.5.7 :.0 yrt rr+ Issues: The Project would require extension and expansion of public services and utilities such as fire and police protection, school facilities, water, sewer, storm drainage facilities, telephone, natural gas and electricity The increased demand created could exceed the current planned capacity of available service providers in terms of resources. On-site service facilities may be included in the project. Public utility agencies would require the project sponsors to bear the cost of the capital improvements for a development while they bear the cost of providing service by collecting user -fees. Public utility agencies have planned infrastructure improvements in the project vicinity. If so, these improvements would be considered and discussed. 0—MM Police Protection Services The location of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's (LASD) station currently serving the project area will be identified. The response time for a service call will be estimated on the basis of LASD information. The number of units that regularly patrol the area and the probable response time for a service call to points within the project area will be determined. The demand for police protection services associated with anticipated buildout will be projected. Potential public safety or security problems and emergency access concerns will be described. The need for additional personnel or equipment to adequately serve the project area will be determined. Potential costs for such service expansion will be discussed on the basis of information provided by the LASD. - Security services planned as part of the project will be evaluated and incorporated into the overall examinations of police protection. Fire Protection The location, order of response and response time of the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) station which currently serves the project area will be described. Any current plans to construct new fire stations and other facilities planning recommendations will be discussed. - The demand for fire protection services associated with anticipated buildout will be discussed. Potential fire safety problems including emergency access will be discussed. Conformance with the Safety Element of the General Plan and the Los Angeles County Uniform Fire Code will be discussed. - The need for additional stations, personnel, or equipment (including hydrants and water in storage) in order to adequately serve the project area will be determined. Potential costs for such service expansion will be discussed on the basis of information provided by the Fire Department. - Measures to alleviate potential impacts on fire protection services will be identified. These measures may includes planned project fire -protection activities. These may include landscaping with fire -retardant plant species, requirements for internal sprinkler systems, and fire trails in open space areas. Schools Current enrollment and age breakdown of the School District and the location of nearby schools will be determined. Any current plans for expansion of the school system will be identified. Current enrollment capacity at those schools which serve the project area will be discussed. The demands for enrollment which anticipated development would place on the school system and the current system's ability to absorb new students will be discussed. The need for additional schools, teachers and other personnel that would be needed in order to adequately provide for projected demand will be discussed. On the basis of information to be provided by the School District, the cost of any required improvements will be estimated. Parks The current total acreage of parks in the area will be determined and the ratio of park acreage to population will be discussed. The relationship of the project area and its proposed recreation facilities to the regional and state recreation systems will be discussed. . Road Maintenance The conditions of existing road infrastructure which would be subject to increased use by employees and visitors will be determined and the amount of increased use will be evaluated. The need for any new road infrastmcture will be assessed. The costs of maintenance and repairs and the road maintenance needsmill be discussed. Water Service - Sources of the City's water supply will be identified. - The capacity of the existing system to meet increased demand will be evaluated. - Current infrastructure serving the project area will be described. - Water consumption will be estimated. - Proposed improvements and increases in capacity to the existing water supply network will be discussed. - The impact on the existing (and any proposed) water supply network will be discussed. Storm and Sanitary Sewers Wastewater generation from the plan will be estimated. Plans for developing the wastewater and storm water collection system will be identified and impacts on the proposed system will be evaluated. The proposed storm drainage system will be described and downstream impacts will be evaluated. Telephone, Gas and Electric Service Facilities currently serving the project area will be identified. Project requirements for telephone, gas and electricity will be discussed. Improvements necessary to serve the project will be identified, estimated costs will be discussed on the basis of information to be provided by the service providers. Solid Waste - Solid waste disposal facilities currently serving the project area will be identified, and available capacity of the service area will be discussed. - The type and frequency of present service will be discussed. - The current waste stream (total and per capita), and the composition of solid waste for the City will be identified. - Improvements necessary will be identified. Costs will be estimated on the basis of information to be provided by the service district. ►: r1L_ • P Issues: Project development may increase the rate of use of natural resources as fuel such as oil, natural gas; natural materials used in construction such as wood; metals, and various rock products. Tasks: Identify the types and amounts of natural resources used and determine the level of significance. t �A�`►IJ Iu19KOYOu_L�IUIM Issues: Project development would directly and indirectly create many jobs. These employees and their families will require a wide range of goods and services from the local community. It is important to project employment characteristics (construction and operation -related) in order to project the type and level of labor skills available within the project area to meet direct and indirect labor requirements. Population growth resulting from anticipated development will have major impacts on the demand for; and distribution of, housing, with associated impacts on. the availability of affordable housing, in particular. This would affect the community's and subregional jobs/housing balance. Tasks: The existing and projected housing stock within the project area, City of Santa Clarita, and L.A. region will be characterized, including number, type, availability, distribution; and affordability. Trends in housing construction will be described, including amount, type, location, planning and financing for housing needs. Housing requirements, timing, type and distribution (location) for project employees will be discussed, based on estimated population and income information. The plan's impacts on housing values and rent levels will be estimated using a regional housing filtering model now being developed for the University of Southern California's School of Urban and Regional Planning. The relationship of housing impacts to the recently passed growth ordinance will be discussed. The projects impact on local hotels and motels will be discussed. Current employment levels and employment trends in the project area, including total employment, employment rate, and employment by sector (e.g. office, manufacturing) and labor category (e.g., professional, clerical) will be discussed. Unemployment levels, including total unemployment, unemployment rate, and unemployment by sector and labor category will be identified. Direct project -related labor and skill requirements during construction and operation will be characterized, including estimates of wage/income levels. Appropriate multipliers for secondary (indirect) employment will be identified, and type and extent of secondary employment induced by anticipated development will be determined. (It is expected that we would use the employment multipliers generated by the California Department of Water Resources input-output model.) Direct and indirect employment requirements will be compared with labor availability and appropriate mitigation measures will be recommended. - Seasonal fluctuations in projected employment will be identified. MIMIMOANJ • Issues: The project site exhibits a feature (drainage course) which indicate potential for archaeological findings. In the event surface/sub-surface resources are discovered during construction, mitigation measures should be implemented. Tasks: Visually inspect the drainage course for evidence of archaeological resources. Review the literature for evidence of previous archaeological finds in the project area. Identify, appropriate mitigation measures. FISCAL ANALYSIS Issues: An important consideration in the approval of a project development is the net fiscal impact on local government. Fiscal analysis is complex depending upon revenues generated by different project components, employee spending, visitor purchases, etc. Even though economic analyses (including benefit -cost analysis) are not required under CEQA Guidelines, local jurisdictions are justifiably interested in the projected economic impacts of proposed projects on the public sector. The proposed fiscal analysis will provide a separate examination of 1) annual operating revenues and costs, and 2) one-time (i.e., capital) revenues and costs. The potential fiscal impact on the City will be the main focus of the analysis, but impacts on other jurisdictions and agencies (e.g., school districts, park districts, etc.) will be noted. Tasks: Revenue/Cost Calculations - Existing property tax revenues, if any, from the project site will be identified and the current distribution of these revenues among local jurisdictions and agencies discussed. - The cost of public services, if any, that are currently provided will be described. - Major revenue impacts of the anticipated project on the City of Santa Clarita will be discussed. These will include, at a minimum, the following categories: property tax and tax increments, transient occupancy tax, sales tax, user charges, utility taxes, business licenses, and state subventions: Revenue impacts will be calculated and expressed in 1990 dollars. - Major revenue impacts will be estimated including reassessment of residential properties and net changes in residential values. - The revenue to be expected from one-time development fees, expressed in 1990 dollars will be estimated. - The annual operating costs for providing public services to anticipated development will be calculated, based on service needs at buildout compared with existing service capacities. - One-time, capital costs of increasing the physical capacity of service providers including police, fire, schools, public works, and parks will be estimated. - One-time, capital costs of increasing the physical capacity of utility providers including sewer, solid waste, water, storm drainage will be estimated. It is assumed that annual operating costs for these utilities are covered by user fees and need not be included explicitly in the fiscal analysis. - Total costs and revenues to City of Santa Clarita will be compared. These net fiscal impacts will be calculated separately for annual and one-time costs and revenues. A. summary table of costs, revenues and net difference between the two will be provided. - Practical, feasible measures to mitigate any adverse fiscal impacts for each specific impact . area (e.g., schools, public works) will be identified. Issues; The project will generate new jobs and attract visitors in the project vicinity. Some of the employees will become new residents of Santa Clarita and of other Southern California communities. These employees will generate new demands for a wide variety of facilities and services, such as schools, parks, commercial establishments, and police and fire protection. Visitors may need temporary housing, parking, and may place added demands on services and facilities. Both the employees and visitors will purchase goods and services from suppliers.. It is important that the City knows what to expect over time in the area surrounding the project area; thus, the growth induction analysis should consider a relatively long time period. With this information, the City can maximize desirable impacts and elements as well as anticipate adverse impacts and take steps to avoid or minimize such impacts. - The nature of induced growth, including the different elements (restaurants, hotels, motels, shops, public facilities etc.) and anticipated distribution will be discussed. This will be done for the project area and the surrounding area. Vacant and underdeveloped (or "soft") sites will be identified. - Availability of housing (and land) to meet anticipated requirements will be assessed, based on information developed in the and Housing Population, and Employment section. - The induced growth demands for housing (temporary and permanent), public facilities, community and commercial services will be discussed. The availability and capabilities of existing facilities and services (housing, schools, etc.) in the City of Santa Clarita and in surrounding communities to meet the demand of the new project -employee residents will be discussed. - The impacts of any major.infrastmcture changes which appear to be necessary or desirable to support induced growth will be discussed. - The impacts of induced growth on present residents and businesses will be discussed. - Strategies and measures which the City of Santa Clarita could employ to mitigate adverse induced growth impacts and encourage positive, desirable impacts of such growth will be identified. Mitigation plans/actions for the City to accommodate the induced growth in a realistic, effective way will be developed. In consultation with City's staff, ESA will identify four alternatives to the anticipated Specific Plan buildout, including a no -plan alternative. Alternatives to be analyzed in the EIR may include development of the project area with the existing zoning regulations; different uses and/or different combinations of uses; lower height restrictions or greater housing uses. Issues: Involvement of the environmental consultant as a part of the task force team will allow for modification of the project to incorporate those mitigation measures that are feasible at the time of the adoption of the specific plan. Additional mitigation measures that are necessary to reduce an impact of the project below the significant level will be identified. Pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 a mitigation monitoring program must be prepared. Tasks: Mitigation measures shall be identified that reduce potentially adverse impacts. Those mitigation measures that have been incorporated into the project shall be so identified. Those mitigation measures that have not been included in the project but are necessary to reduce they impact below the significant level shall be identified. Additional measures that could be taken to further reduce the level of impact shall be identified, if possible. A mitigation and monitoring program will be prepared in compliance with California Public Resources Section 21081.6 The program shall include mitigation measures and shall identify the responsible party for each mitigation measure. The program shall be designed to insure compliance during the implementation of the Specific Plan. �r . : ►1r . �l•`�CW ESA will attend three Public Hearings (not to exceed 15 hours of technical time.) Kaku Associates will attend two Public Hearings (not to exceed 10 hours of technical time. 2. Schedule of Costs Revision to Preliminary Draft EIR (assumes responding to City Comments not to exceed 16 hours 1,400 of technical time) Response to Comments (assumes responding to Public Comments will not exceed 40 hours 3,000 of technical time) Attendance at Public Hearings by ESA and Kaku Associates (not to exceed 25 hours)a 2M Total EIR 99,220 a. If attendance at meetings with City staff or additional public hearings were to become necessary, it would be arranged on a time -and -materials basis in addition to the budget as proposed above. Project Management and Administration 15,000 Technical Tasks Project Description 3,400 Land Use and Zoning 2,800 Aesthetics and Light and Glare 1,200 Traffic, Circulation and Parking 19,650 Climate and Air Quality 4,600 Noise 3,600 Geology and Hydrology 2,800 Plant and Animal Life 2,400 Energy 4,000 Public Services and Utilities 4,800 Natural Resources 1,200 Housing, Population and Employment 3,600 Cultural Resources 2,400 Fiscal Analysis 3,600 Growth Inducement 2,400 Alternatives 2,400 Mitigation Monitoring Program 3,000 Other CEQA Sections 1,200 Graphics and Word Processing 6,270 Preliminary DEIR Printing 2,000 Revision to Preliminary Draft EIR (assumes responding to City Comments not to exceed 16 hours 1,400 of technical time) Response to Comments (assumes responding to Public Comments will not exceed 40 hours 3,000 of technical time) Attendance at Public Hearings by ESA and Kaku Associates (not to exceed 25 hours)a 2M Total EIR 99,220 a. If attendance at meetings with City staff or additional public hearings were to become necessary, it would be arranged on a time -and -materials basis in addition to the budget as proposed above. l" a �,I"[�.Y�1M[� ESA will start work on receipt of executed contract and initiation payment. ESA will submit the Screencheck Draft EIR to the City of Santa Clarita for review three months following start of work assuming data is received as indicated in the attached data request. ESA will submit the Draft EIR to the City of Santa Clarita for publication fifteen days after receipt of all the City's review comments. Following the 45 day Public Comment Period, ESA will submit a Draft Response to Comments Document to the City of Santa Clarita for review no later than six weeks after receipt of all public comments. ESA will submit the Final EIR to the City of Santa Clarita for publication fifteen days after receipt of all the City's review comments. ATTACHMENT TO EXHIBIT B DATA REQUIREMENTS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT VESTING TENTATIVE TRACT 47326 We need items in bold type within fourteen days of starting work. We would like the other items within 30 days; if they are not to be provided, we need to know within 30 days. 1. Project Design: a. Site plans, including plans for grading, drainage, utilities, infrastructure, proposed land uses and zoning. One fall size set and one reduced set (8S inches by 11 inches) of plans; clean black line only (please avoid shading), pmts preferred, suitable for reproduction. b. Statement of land uses including residential units by number, type, density and other uses by acreage and square footage of development anticrpabed capacity of elementary school, anticipated size and capability of fire station. C. Elevation renderings and/or photomontages of the project, if available. d. Statement of architectural design concept, including consideration of Santa Clarita design guidelines, and compatibility with adjacent structures. e. Description of facade materials and colors, glazing materials and colors, paving and other planned surface treatments, landscaping, street lighting and pedestrian furniture. 2. Alternatives: Alternatives to be considered include the CEQA-mandated "no project" alternative, an alternate site alternative, an alternative meeting the existing County General Plan, an alternative meeting the proposed City General Plan and a lower density alternative. We will require site plans specifying acreage and land uses and the number of dwelling units. 3. Construction schodule and activities (including phasing), estimated duration in weeks o£ a. site clearance b. mass grading C. excavation and shoring (especially any sheet piling) d. foundatiion preparation (especially any pdedriving) C. framing L exterior finishing g. interior finishing IL initial occupancy i. full occupancy 4. Construction rancportation/cinnlarion/patking: a. estimated average and maximum track round -trips to site per day daring 1) site clearance and excavation and 2) steel erection and finishing. b. probable size of trucks and load capacities 5. Project operation traffic: a. site access/egress location; location, b. delivery and loading areas for commercial and institutional uses) C. number of paddng spaces for commercial and institutional uses a. estimated project marimt value b. estimated construction cost C. estimated office lease rates per square foot per year d. estimated retail lease rates per square foot per year a. Total estimated construction payroll in 1990 dollars, or estimated person-years of construction employment b. Commercial Uses: Estimated non -tenant employment to manage and maintain the project, and office and retail tenants (owners and employees). Estimated wages of non -tenant employees. C. projected retail revenues ( project amoral gross receipts of retail sales) C. projected reins per square foot (office and retail) f. Home prices (range and median) 8. Energy a. connected kilowatt load for the entire project b. anticipated peak day (by how) and annual (by month) load dism'bation carves for electricity and natural gas (both in Btu) and any other fuels to be used C. estimated average monthly consumption of electricity (kWh), natural gas (Btu), and any other fuels (Btu) in both absolute amounts and per square foot of interior floor area C. all assumptions and calculations used to determine items a, b, c, and d (for example, weather data used, lighting load distributions, and oft load distributions; if a computer program was used, a copy should be attached) f. a list of energy conservation measures considered by the project sponsor (including those listed in item g) Ms. Wendy Lockwood, Director of the Los Angeles Office, will be the Associate -in -Charge of the Vesting Tentative Tract 47326 EIR. Her responsibilities will include supervision of the consultant team, quality control and technical overview. Mr. Roger Kent, ESA Senior Associate, will be Project Manager for the preparation of the Vesting Tentative Tract 47326 EIR. He will review all sections of the EIRs. He will direct the overall work program and attend meetings and hearings. Ms. Susan Aha, ESA Associate will be Task Leader for the Physical Science sections of the EIR. Dr. Susan O'Carroll, ESA Senior Associate, will be Task Leader for the Socio-economic sections of the EIR. ESA will contract with Kaku Associates to perform the Traffic and Circulation Analyses in connection with the Vesting Tentative Tract 47326 EIR. Tom Gaul will be Kaku Associates' Project Manager.