HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-03-23 - AGENDA REPORTS - AGMT RINCON EIR TOWN CENTER 11 (2)Agenda Item: _3
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
CONSENT CALENDAR City Manager Approval:
Item to be presented by: Aimee Schwimmer
DATE: March 23, 2004
SUBJECT: AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RINCON CONSULTANTS TO
PREPARE AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EIR) FOR
THE TOWN CENTER PHASE II PROJECT (MASTER CASE NO.
03-160).
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Building Services
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council authorize the City Manager or designee to enter into a professional services contract
between the City and Rincon Consultants to prepare an EIR for the Town Center Phase II
development, for a total contract amount not to exceed $76,541.00, subject to City Attorney
approval. EIR preparation costs will be borne by the applicant (Newhall Land and Farm
Company).
BACKGROUND
City staff is recommending Rincon Consultants prepare an EIR for the Town Center Phase II
project. The applicant, The Newhall Land and Farming Company, proposes Phase II of Town
Center, which includes an additional 620,000 square feet of commercial floor area and two
parking structures, within the Valley Concept Center (VCC) of the General Plan at the northeast
corner of Valencia Boulevard and McBean Parkway, and the southwest comer of Citrus Drive
and Valencia Boulevard at the existing Town Center Mall site. The proposal includes the
development of a three-story office building, two new pads for future department stores, and
additional retail space at the three existing department stores on the project site. The current
zoning of the project site is: CTC (Commercial Town Center). The applicant is not proposing to
change the zoning of the site with the proposed addition.
Rincon Consultants was the highest rated firm of the two firms interviewed by City staff for the
" i E
preparation of the EIR. The cost for preparing the document is $76,541.00 This includes a 10%
contingency fee, which will provide a buffer in the event of unexpected costs. The money was
deposited into a 501 account and this amount will cover all costs associated with the
Environmental Impact Report (EIR).
ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS
1. Not approve the contract with Rincon Consultants and select an alternate consulting firm for
the preparation of the EIR.
2. Other action as determined by the Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
The cost of the EIR preparation will be home solely by the applicant. A Trust in Agency
Account has been established. Newhall Land and Farming Company has submitted a check
which was deposited into a Trust Agency account for preparation of the Town Center EIR.
Therefore, authorization to proceed with the EIR does not create a fiscal impact to the City's
budget.
ATTACHMENTS
Rincon Consultants Proposal available in the City Clerk's Reading File
Vicinity Map of Project Site
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
1.0 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT
This section describes our understanding of the Valencia Town Center Phase II Project and the services
being requested by the City of Santa Clarita.
1.1 THE APPLICANT'S PROPOSAL
The project applicant is proposing to construct approximately 620,000 square feet of commercial floor
area and two parking structures on an approximately 100 -acre site currently occupied by the Valencia
Town Center Mall. Specifically, the Valencia Town Center Phase II project includes: expansion of the
existing department stores totaling about 95,000 square feet; space for two new anchor tenants totaling
about 304,000 square feet; a 90,000 square foot office building; two free standing retail buildings totaling
about 9,000 square feet; and about 107,250 square feet of accessory retail space between the new anchors
and the existing mall structure. The site is currently developed with the 700,000 square foot Valencia
Town Center Mall, several office and retail buildings, a health club, a hotel and conference center, and
two multi -family developments, along with accessory surface and structured parking.
The project includes site preparation activities needed to accommodate the new buildings and parking
structures. These new structures would be primarily located in areas of existing paving and landscaping
currently being utilized for surface parking. Approximately 30 acres of the site would be disrupted as
part of site preparation and development. The project would involve about 323,450 cubic yards of cut
and about 350,200 cubic yards of fill. The maximum depth of the cut would be about 16 feet.
The application generally complies with development standards of the Santa Clarita Unified
Development Code concerning setbacks, parking and floor area ratio, with the exception of the height of
the proposed buildings and parking structures. The maximum height of proposed structures would be
60 feet, which exceeds the 35 -foot height limit in the CTC zone. In order to accommodate these site
modifications, a Conditions Use Permit is required. The project is identified as the City Master Case File
No. 03-160, Conditional Use Permit No. 03-005, and Initial Study No. 03-004.
1.2 REQUESTED SERVICES
The City of Santa Clarita is seeking a consultant to prepare an EIR assessing the environmental effects of
the Valencia Town Center Phase II Project in accordance with the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). As part of the environmental review process, the City is seeking
assistance with the following specific tasks:
• Prepare and Submit NOP to State Clearinghouse
• Attend one Public Scoping Meeting
• Prepare technical analysis of the project's impacts related to traffic and transportation, air quality, water,
aesthetics, and agricultural resources.
• Peer review applicant -prepared technical studies in the areas of traffic (Austin -Foust Associates), water
supply, air quality and photo simulations
• Examine and document findings far other issues that are determined to be less than significant
• Evaluate feasible alternatives as required by CEQA
• Prepare an Administrative Draft EIR for review and comment by the City
• Incorporate City comments and publish the public review Draft EIR
IF City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
• Prepare responses to comments on the public review Draft EIR and publish the Final EIR, including a
mitigation monitoring and reporting program (MMRP)
• Prepare Other Required CEQA Notices to be filed 1nj the City
• Attend meetings and public hearings on the project
As noted in the City's Request for Proposals, it is anticipated that the applicant will provide several
technical reports for incorporation into the EIR as appropriate. This proposal includes an independent
peer review of other technical studies to ensure that the FIR reflects the independent judgment of the
EIR consulting firm and City staff.
2.0 QUALIFICATIONS
Rincon Consultants is a full-service environmental consulting firm that employs 45 professionals in
four offices: Ventura, San Luis Obispo, Carlsbad, and Palm Desert. Rincon has managed EIRs on some
of the most complex planning projects in southern and central California. Our firm includes registered
geologists, a certified engineering geologist, registered environmental assessors (REA I and Ii), a doctor
of environmental engineering, a team of wildlife biologists and licensed wetland specialists, noise and
air quality experts, and certified urban planners. This breadth of expertise allows Rincon to analyze
many of the issues relevant to nearly any project in-house.
Rincon prides itself on providing senior -level commitment and management to all projects. This is
crucial to the success of high-profile projects such as the Valencia Town Center Phase II Project. We
have selected a highly -qualified team with outstanding credentials and experience to prepare the
documentation. To augment our team, we have included Associated Transportation Engineers (ATE),
experts in the assessment of traffic, circulation and parking issues, to conduct the peer review of the
applicant -commissioned traffic study (currently being prepared by Austin -Foust Associates).
The Rincon team organization is shown on the following organizational chart. Biographies for the key
Rincon staff are included in below. Resumes for key Rincon staff are included in the Appendix to this
proposal.
2.1 KEY RINCON STAFF
Rincori s team organization is illustrated on the following page. The following are brief descriptions of
our key team members. Resumes for Rincon team members are provided at the end of this proposal.
Stephen Svete, AICP, Principal and Director of Planning for Rincon will serve as Principal -in -Charge
of the EIR, and will directly oversee the evaluation of aesthetic impacts. Steve has more than 17 years
of experience in CEQA and NEPA document preparation, urban planning, urban design, and project
management for both public agencies and private consulting firms. He has supervised the preparation
of numerous EIR documents, including many in the City of Santa Clarita. Most recently, Steve
directed the preparation of the Simi Valley Town Center EIR and is currently overseeing the City of
Thousand Oaks, Oaks Mall Renovation/Expansion EIR. He has also managed the preparation of the
several EIRs for the City of Santa Clarita, most notably the City's Circulation Element EIR. Steve is also
contributing editor to California Planning & Development Report.
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Project Team Organization
City of Santa Clarita
Stephen Svete, AICP
Principal -in -Charge
Joe Power, AICP
Project Manager
Duane Vander Pluym, DESE
Quality Assurance
Ed Miller, MESMJoanne Dramko, MESM
W
Flooding and Water Quality I n Noise, Visual Resources
Melissa Mascali, MESM Scott Schell, AICP
Air Quality, Infrastructure, and Public Services Traffic, Circulation, and Parking
Joe Power, AICP, Planning Manager for Rincon, will serve as project manager for the Valencia Town
Center Phase II Project EIR. In this role, he will directly oversee the work of Rincon and subconsultant
staff and will serve as the day-to-day contact for the City. He will also directly oversee the preparation
of the land use, public services, and utility analyses. Joe has managed numerous CEQA studies in his
15 -year planning career. He recently managed the Simi Valley Town Center EIR, a project that
included over 1,325,000 sf GLA, 500 multi -family units, and a 140 -room hotel and is currently managing
the Oaks Mall Renovation/Expansion EIR. Joe also recently managed: the Gate -King Industrial Park
EIR for the City of Santa Clarita, which examined a 4.5 -million square foot industrial center; the
Golden Valley Ranch EIR for the City of Santa Clarita, which examined a large mixed-use
development on 1,300 acres; and the J.H. Snyder Mixed Use Development EIR for the City of Agoura
Hills, which studied a mixed use development along Highway 101 at the eastern gateway to that city.
Duane Vander Pluym, D. Env., Principal and Senior Environmental Scientist with Rincon will serve as
a principal investigator and quality assurance coordinator for the project. In this role, Duane will serve
as a technical coordinator of the environmental analysis team and be responsible for quality assurance
of the EIR. He will also directly oversee the preparation of the air quality and noise analyses. He has
more than 20 years of environmental consulting experience, during which time he has conducted
numerous environmental studies for both public agencies and private clients. Duane's project
experience includes a wide range of technical and environmental studies for plans, specific
development plans, major planned residential communities, commercial and industrial facilities,
energy and pipeline projects, and infrastructure projects. His areas of technical expertise include noise,
air quality, aesthetics, biology, ecosystem analysis, hydrology, water quality, and public services.
Duane has managed or assisted in the preparation of several EIRs for the City of Santa Clarita,
including the City's Circulation Element EIR and Hunters Green Project EIR. In addition, Duane
recently managed the Ahmanson Ranch Specific Plan SEIR for the County of Ventura.
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Joanne Dramko, MESM, will prepare the noise and visual resources analyses. Joanne has more than six
years of experience preparing and presenting technical environmental information. She has considerable
experience with computerized graphic design programs including advanced Geographic Information
Systems. She was the principal investigator for the City of Pasadena Noise Element Update. In this
capacity, she conducted a citywide noise survey that involved sampling and mapping of noise contours
throughout the City. She is currently managing the City of Santa Monica Pier Access EIR/EA.
Melissa Mascali, MESM, an Environmental Analyst and Assistant Project Manager with Rincon, will
prepare technical sections of the EIR concerning air quality and solid waste disporal. Melissa has over
five years of experience performing environmental impact analyses for development projects. Her
project experience includes work for several post -secondary schools and public school districts. She
managed the Nanosystems Institute EIR for UC Santa Barbara and the SCE Transmission Line
Reroute IS/MND for California State University at Channel Islands. She is currently serving as project
manager for the Moorpark College Master Plan EIR for the Ventura County Community College
District.
Ed Miller, MESM, will prepare the water resources section of the EIR. Ed serves as a project manager
and biologist for biological, environmental, and water resource studies. Ed holds a Masters of
Environmental Science and Management degree with a focus in Watershed Management from the
University of California at Santa Barbara. He has completed courses in wetland delineation (Wetland
Training Institute), desert tortoise workshop (Desert Tortoise Council), Fish Passage Workshop, and
Hydrogeomorphic Stream Assessment Workshop (Santa Barbara County). Ed has over 7 years of
professional experience and is skilled in management of large projects, agency coordination, field
biology, analytical methods, and the preparation of biological and environmental documents for
compliance with CEQA and NEPA. Ed's field experience in Washington, Central and Southern
California, and Nevada has entailed assessment of forest, alpine, coastal, desert, riparian, and wetland
habitats; wetland and jurisdictional waters delineations; stream surveys; special -status species surveys;
and construction monitoring; among other activities.
Scott A. Schell, AICP, will be the Principal Transportation Planner for the project. Scott, a partner
with ATE and a nationally certified planner (AICP), is a transportation planning specialist with over 17
years of experience in traffic operations and transportation planning. Scott has successfully managed
numerous transportation planning projects in southern California, including EIRs, Master Plans,
Specific Plans, traffic studies and parking studies. Scott is currently the Principal in Charge of the
traffic and circulation studies for the California Polytechnic State University Master Plan, and the Paso
Robles Vineyard Agricultural Cluster and Biddle Ranch EIRs. He also recently completed traffic,
circulation and parking studies for projects located in San Benito and Monterey counties.
2.2 RINCON CONSULTANTS EXPERIENCE
Rincon Consultants has prepared numerous EIRs for projects similar to the proposed Valencia Town
Center Phase II Project. Rincon has provided consulting services to the City of Santa Clarita for over
eight years and is therefore very familiar with development issues of concern to Santa Clarita
residents.
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Rincon's experience includes analysis of many hillside developments, including some of the most
controversial projects in the Southern California region. Some of our most representative experience is
highlighted below.
The Oaks Mall Renovation/Expansion EIR
City of Thousand Oaks
Rincon is currently preparing an EIR addressing a three -phased renovation/ expansion of The Oaks
shopping center that would entail the net addition of approximately 583,000 square feet of
retail/ commercial uses and 2,045 parking spaces. The applicant is currently seeking entitlements only
for Phase 1 of the project, which would add about 232,000 square feet of development and 1,287
parking spaces. Combined with existing onsite development, the shopping center would total nearly
1.7 million square feet of development and would provide 6,783 parking spaces at completion of Phase
1 and the conceptual Phase 2 and 3 plans. Key issues being examined in the EIR include traffic,
circulation and parking, visual resources, geology and soils, hazards and hazardous materials,
infrastructure and public services.
Simi Valley Town Center Specific Plan EIR
City of Simi Valley
Rincon prepared an EIR on a specific plan for a 129 -acre site that involved 500 multi -family residences
and 1.3 million square feet of commercial space, including a new regional mall. The proposed specific
plan superceded a previously approved specific plan for the site that also involved a regional mall.
Key EIR issues included changes to views from public rights-of-way associated with the conversion of
a highly visible hillside area, alteration of a major onsite drainage and associated biological resource
impacts, and geologic concerns relating to the presence of an active fault that traverses the site. The
EIR also highlighted a variety of project benefits, including the increase in sales tax revenues to the
City and the reduction in the average vehicle trip length and associated reduction in regional air
pollutant emissions due to the provision of improved shopping opportunities in closer proximity to
Simi Valley residents.
Golden Valley Ranch EIR
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon prepared an EIR on the Golden Valley Ranch mixed project proposed on a 1,300 -acre property
adjacent to the City of Santa Clarita. The project involved the development of over 500 residential
units and about 600,000 square feet of commercial/ retail development on undeveloped hillside terrain.
Key issues for the highly controversial project included geotechnical (landslide) concerns, biological
resources (including the California gnatcatcher), hydrology, and hazards (several abandoned oil wells
were located onsite). The EIR examined numerous alternatives developed by the consulting team, in
conjunction with the applicant. Ultimately, one of the alternative scenarios studied in the EIR emerged
as the applicant's preferred project and was approved by the City Council.
City of Santa Monica Civic Center Specific Plan EIR
City of Santa Monica
Rincon is currently preparing an EIR for the City of Santa Monica Civic Center Specific Plan (CCSP).
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
The CCSP establishes the planning policies and land use and development regulations for 62 acres in
the CCSP area, more than two-thirds of which were in public ownership. The proposed CCSP sets
forth a vision for the Civic Center, which represented the greatest potential for infill development to
meet the city's housing, open space, cultural, civic and recreational needs. Overall, the proposed CCSP
allows for the development of up to 16.4 acres of public open space, 675 units of mixed-use multifamily
housing with 20,000 square feet (so of new ground -floor commercial retail, 150,000 sf of public and
community facilities, 560,000 sf of reconfigured or reconstructed commercial retail, 85,000 sf of
commercial office space, and associated street and parking improvements. Key issues included traffic
and circulation, parking, visual resources, public services and infrastructure, noise, shadow effects, and
historical resources.
Rose Ranch Commercial Project EIR
City of Oxnard
Rincon recently prepared an EIR that addressed development of about 89,000 square feet of
commercial development on a 9.89 -acre site within the boundaries of the Northeast Community
Specific Plan (NECSP) area in the City of Oxnard. Specifically, the project involved the development of
three single -story buildings, including a proposed 51,500 square foot (so supermarket, an 18,000 sf
drug store, and about 19,000 sf of additional specialty retail space. Entitlements needed to implement
the project included a general plan amendment, zone change, specific plan amendment, tentative
parcel map, and a special use permit. The General Plan and Specific Plan amendments were needed to
change the land use designations from Low Medium Residential to General Commercial. Key issues
examined in the EIR included visual resources, traffic, land use, noise, environmental hazards,
population and housing, and public services and infrastructure.
T.H. Snyder Mixed Use DeveloRment EIR
City of Agoura Hills
Rincon prepared an EIR on the J.H. Snyder Mixed Use Development proposed in the City of Agoura
Hills. The City had previously considered several other development proposals for the 40 -acre site,
which is a major gateway to the City along Highway 101. The project studied in the EIR consisted of
336 multi -family residences, about 80,000 square feet of offices, and four restaurant pads. Key
environmental issues included traffic, biological resources (wetlands associated with Medea Creek and
oak tree loss), and aesthetics (impacts relating to grading on two large knolls onsite).
Golden Valley Road/High School EIR
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon prepared an EIR on this hillside project, which consists of two physical components and several
land use regulatory changes. The physical changes that comprise the project include: (1) an
approximately one -mile extension of Golden Valley Road from Sierra Highway to just south of Soledad
Canyon Road; and (2) grading and development of a 49.6 -acre site with a 2,400 -student high school.
The regulatory changes involve amendments to land use designations on several properties adjacent to
the road and school sites, and several amendments to the Porta Bella Specific Plan, which was adopted
by the City of Santa Clarita in 1993. The purpose of these regulatory changes is to create a more logical
future development pattern for the area.
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Hunters Green Residential and Golf Course Development EIR
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon prepared an EIR on the development of two 18 -hole golf courses, clubhouse, lighted driving
range and 83 residential estates on a 411 -acre site. The project involved the annexation of a portion of
the property into the City and extensive hillside grading of 2.2 million cubic yards within chaparral,
oak woodland, and alluvial fan scrub habitats. Issues investigated include geological hazards,
flooding and drainage, biological impacts, traffic, noise, air quality, and visual aesthetics. A critical
concern addressed was hillside grading of a City secondary ridgeline, with computer generated visual
simulations used to illustrate the potential landform alteration. An extensive alternatives analysis
compared the project impacts to the effect of existing entitlements for 222 residential units, design
alternatives, and a mixed use alternative.
Ahmanson Ranch Specific Plan SEIR
County of Ventura
Rincon prepared a Supplemental EIR for the Ahmanson Ranch Specific Plan. This highly controversial
project involved the development of 3,050 residential units, 400,000 square feet of commercial/ office
space, a hotel resort, two golf courses (including a PGA Senior Tour course), a new town center,
schools, and parks. The project was originally approved in 1992. The SEIR examines several new
issues that have emerged since the original approval, including the discovery onsite of federally
endangered plant and animal species. Duane Vander Pluym prepared the original EIR, which has
been found legally adequate despite 11 separate lawsuits against the document.
QAD Mark Hill Campus Development EIR
City of Carpinteria
Rincon completed an EIR for a 430,000 square foot research and development campus and corporate
headquarters on a 33 -acre parcel. The project included two parking garages. The project site is on the
urban edge of an industrial park development in Carpinteria, otherwise surrounded by agricultural
uses on a hilltop site overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The project site lies within unincorporated Santa
Barbara County and requires annexation to the City. Primary issues addressed in the EIR included the
land use implications of the annexation, effects on adjacent agricultural uses, aesthetics, drainage and
grading, the provision of public services, cultural resources, traffic and circulation, noise, and air
quality. The alternatives section addressed clustering the buildings on the southern portion of the site,
reducing the overall size of the facility, and an alternative site.
Soledad/Golden Valley Interchange Preliminary Environmental Assessment Report and IS -
MND CE
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon completed a Preliminary Environmental Assessment Report (PEAR) and Initial Study -
Mitigated Negative Declaration and Categorical Exclusion for the proposed interchange at Soledad
Canyon Road and Golden Valley Road. These studies evaluated possible environmental impacts
associated with the proposed new interchange. Key issues included overhead power lines in the area
and cultural resources.
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
City of Santa Clarita Transit Maintenance Facility IS-MND/CE
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon prepared CEQA and NEPA documentation for the acquisition of an approximately 12 -acre site
for the development of a 72,000 square foot City Transit Maintenance Facility (TMF). In addition to
local funding, the City plans to use federal funds for the project under the auspices of the Federal
Transit Administration (FTA). The federal funding for the project necessitated the preparation of
NEPA environmental documentation in addition to that required under CEQA. Key issues addressed
in this study included traffic, noise, air quality, land use and geologic hazards.
Circulation Element Amendment EIR
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon prepared an EIR on a proposed amendment to the City of Santa Clarita's Circulation Element
of the General Plan. The "alternatives' EIR examined seven alternative circulation systems, including
two alternatives that considered the adoption of aggressive transportation demand management
techniques in lieu of additional road improvements. The primary purpose of the project was to find an
acceptable alternative to the planned SR -126 extension from I-5 to SR -14. The EIR process included an
extensive public participation element, which involved a scoping meeting, three public workshops,
and six public hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council.
Magic Mountain Parkway/Via Princessa Extension Final EIR
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon prepared the Final EIR on a proposed four -mile road extension through the central portion of
the City of Santa Clarita. Rincon was retained by ASL Consulting Engineers to complete the project,
which had become the source of substantial public controversy. Key environmental concerns included
dislocation of existing businesses, biological resources in several affected drainages, and contamination
issues on a 996 -acre property through which the proposed road passes.
Newhall Creek Section 404 Permit Processin¢
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon assisted the City of Santa Clarita in processing an Army Corps of Engineers Section 404
Wetland Permit and State Water Resources Control Board 401 Certification for the stabilization of an
approximately 1,000 foot segment of Newhall Creek. The work effort included the preparation and
submittal of all application materials for the 404 and 401 permits, including an archaeological study
and cultural finds report. As part of the project, Rincon also prepared a procedural manual to assist
the City in identifying and following 404/401 permit requirements. This manual describes the types of
permits required for various projects, timing requirements, and agency contacts.
Four Oaks 404 Permit and Streambed Alteration Agreement
City of Santa Clarita
Rincon assisted the City in processing an Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 Wetland Permit and a
California Department of Fish and Game Streambed Alteration Agreement. The project involved
improvements to a drainage ditch that extends from the terminus of Four Oaks Street to the Santa
Clara River. Rincon coordinated with federal and state agencies to determine permitting needs, then
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
prepared and submitted the application materials for both the Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit
and the Streambed Alteration Agreement.
Santa Monica Pier Access EIR/EA
City of Santa Monica
Rincon is preparing an EIR and Environmental Assessment (EA) studying proposed improvements to the
access systems to the Santa Monica Pier from the parking lot below and from the Colorado Boulevard
main entrance. The NEPA document was required because some of funding was to be provided by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The EIR/ EA addresses two primary access programs as well as seven alternatives. The alternatives
addresses alternative ramp locations, alternative sidewalk configurations, and the construction of a
pedestrian -only bridge. Key issues included traffic and circulation (including pedestrian movement),
parking, cultural resources (historic) and aesthetics.
RAND Corporation Headquarters EIR
City of Santa Monica
Rincon prepared the EIR for the new headquarters office building for RAND on an approximately 3.68 -
acre parcel. The proposed project involved replacement and consolidation of RAND's existing
facilities that currently occupy a different part of the RAND property in the Civic Center of Santa
Monica. The proposed RAND Headquarters would consist of an office building containing
approximately 308,869 SF of space, with a floor area ratio (FAR) of 1.93. The proposed building would
be six stories in height. The building height would be 72 feet above average natural grade. The
proposed project also involved 825-1,020 parking spaces in a three and one-half level subterranean
garage, which would be accessed either from Main Street and Vicente Terrace, or from Vicente Terrace
only. The EIR analyzed three project development options as well as a broad range of project
alternatives. Key issues included traffic and circulation, cultural resources, neighborhood impacts,
land use compatibility and construction effects.
Target Department Store EIR
City of Santa Monica
Rincon prepared the EIR for the Target Department Store Project in the City of Santa Monica. The
proposed structure involved a three-story, 162,480 square foot retail building, which also included
ancillary office space. The project also included a four story subterranean garage containing 575
parking spaces. The EIR evaluated four alternatives including a reduce project as well as two other
mixed use alternatives and the no project alternative. Key issues included traffic and circulation,
construction effects, and neighborhood effects. In addition, issues related to geologic hazards,
aesthetics, noise, land use and utilities were evaluated.
Fourth Street Senior Housing and Public Parking Structure EIR
City of Santa Monica
Rincon prepared an EIR on a senior affordable housing project and parking structure in the City of
Santa Monica. The project, a joint venture of the City of Santa Monica and the Jewish Federation,
City of Santa Clarita
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
involves the infill development of a surface parking lot. The environmental documentation involved
the preparation of a detailed Initial Study that examined all of the environmental issues on the City's
checklist, ultimately leading to the preparation of a focused EIR.
Lantana Studios Project EIR
City of Santa Monica
Rincon prepared an EIR that addressed the environmental effects of a 200,000 square foot expansion of
the Lantana Entertainment Production Studio Project in the City of Santa Monica. The proposed
development involved construction of a 152,000 square foot three story building with a two-level 561 -
space subterranean parking garage, a 64,105 square foot, three story building with a two-level, 503 space
subterranean parking garage, and the removal of two surface parking lots. The project involved two non-
contiguous parcels that were divided by a 100 -foot Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) public
transportation corridor, which presented significant design constraints concerning onsite circulation,
parking and access.
The EIR provided a comprehensive analysis of the proposed project and focused on traffic and
circulation, loss of private surface parking facilities, construction related impacts, change in aesthetic
character of the area, noise, and geologic concerns relating to excavation needed for the subterranean
parking.
3.0 SCOPE OF WORK/ TECHNICAL APPROACH
Rincon's general approach to CEQA documentation is described in Section 3.1. The core EIR process is
presented in Section 3.2. Our technical approach to the environmental issues is presented in Section
3.3.
3.1 THE RINCON APPROACH
Rincon understands the need to effectively become an extension of City staff for this project. We will
provide the City with regular progress reports on the work status, as well as the budget. It is our
practice to manage the CEQA process as a problem -solving tool. Through our teamwork approach, the
City of Santa Clarita will have direct access to strong technical expertise, while the consultant team will
have direct access to the City's knowledge of community issues and local political concerns.
We also recognize that the identification of environmental impacts is only a preliminary part of the
CEQA process. Equally important are developing effective mitigation measures for identified impacts,
devising alternatives that respond to environmental conditions and good planning principles, and
involving the community in the overall planning process.
Rincon principals and senior staff involved in this project have served as technical experts in the
planning and environmental industry and have been so recognized through professional awards. The
Principal -in -Charge holds a certificate in advanced project management from the American
Management Association. Our reputation stems from the ongoing quality control procedures we have
established as part of our practice. We participate in ongoing training and practice peer review of our
project work. Regular internal consultant team meetings will be held to review major phases of the
project.
City of Santa Clarita
10
City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
We practice the following techniques to ensure quality and responsiveness:
• Direct and open communication with the City's Project Manager and staff to facilitate mutual
understanding of assumptions and decisions made
• An interactive planning process with ample opportunity for product review and approval by the City
• Use of concise summaries and clear presentation of analysis results for decision -makers
• Use ofgraphics and comparison tables, highlighting critical points
Early and ongoing communication among the consulting team, City staff, and, as appropriate, the
community, ensures that the planning process is well served. In our experience, this approach often
leads to more sensitive project design through the development of community -sensitive mitigation
measures and/or alternatives.
3.2 WORK PROGRAM
Task 1: Kickoff Meeting
Within 10 days of authorization to proceed, Rincon will organize a kickoff meeting with City staff,
members of the applicant group (if appropriate), and key members of the consultant team. This
meeting will serve as a forum to review and confirm study objectives and establish an operational
protocol. Working schedules will be finalized, and details for scheduled tasks will be discussed. The
consultant team will use this opportunity to collect any relevant studies and information not already
transmitted. The timing and roles and responsibilities for scheduling the proposed scoping meeting
will also be discussed and finalized.
The kickoff meeting also allows the City/ applicant/ consultant team an opportunity to discuss the
completeness of technical reports and other data needs. This step should clarify the environmental
concerns of the community and other agencies, allowing the team to verify the scope of the study.
We will also have an opportunity to identify the cumulative projects list and the nature of the
alternatives to the proposed project that will be addressed in the EIR. We anticipate analyzing up to
four alternatives in the EIR.
Output: Rincon will prepare an agenda for and a memorandum of the proceedings of the Kickoff Meeting.
Task 2: Project Description
Rincon will prepare a Project Description for review by the City and applicant. This review is critical,
since it forms the basis for environmental evaluation under CEQA. The project description will detail
the project proposal as well as providing a listing of other pending projects in the immediate project
vicinity. Textual, tabular, and graphic presentation will be included as necessary to facilitate a
thorough understanding of proposed operations. The project description will include:
• An explanation of proposed land use changes and controls,
• A focused explanation of specific renovation and expansion activities, including a summary of project
statistics and phasing of the project,
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
• Statement of project objectives;
• A description ofgrading and any planned landscaping,
• Description of circulation system and parking changes,
• Discussion of phasing plans;
• Operational activities, including any special events, and
• Features that have been incorporated into the project to minimize potential environmental or land use
conflicts.
Output: Rincon will deliver 5 copies of the Project Description for City review.
Task 3: Finalize and Distribute Initial Study and Notice of Preparation
Working closely with City staff, Rincon will review and finalize the Initial Study (IS) and Notice of
Preparation (NOP) for the project. The IS will address all issues that appear on the CEQA checklist
and will be supported by text substantiating the preliminary findings of significance. The NOP and
attached IS will be circulated to the State Clearinghouse and other interested parties for a 30 -day
comment period at the commencement of the EIR process.
Output: Rincon will prepare and circulate the Initial Study and Notice of Preparation
Task 4: Scoping Meeting
Recent CEQA law (AB 1532, passed in 2001) requires that a public scoping meeting be conducted for
any project "of statewide, regional, or areawide significance." Given the scope of the proposed project
a scoping meeting is required to meet the provisions of Section 15206 of the State CEQA Guidelines.
Working closely with City staff, Rincon will prepare a formal presentation, display graphics, and
meeting handouts to describe the project and the environmental review process. The purpose of the
meeting will be to solicit public input on the contents of the EIR document and to outline how the
process will be implemented, including identifying points for future public involvement. Rincon s
Principal in Charge and/or Project Manager will attend the meeting, making a presentation on the
project and CEQA process and moderating the public discussion. We will also be available to answer
questions concerning the process and would note issues identified by the public concerning the
content of the EIR and other matters related to the CEQA process. We have assumed that the City will
record and produce the formal minutes to the meeting.
Output: Rincon will attend and support the City at one project scoping meeting
Task 5: Administrative Draft EIR
The EIR will be prepared in accordance with the State CEQA Guidelines, which set the standards for
adequacy of an EIR. Specifically, the CEQA Guidelines state that:
An EIR should be prepared with a sufficient degree of analysis to provide decision -makers with
information which enables them to make a decision which intelligently takes account of environmental
consequences. An evaluation of the environmental effects of a proposed project need not be exhaustive,
but the sufficiency of an EIR is to be reviewed in light of what is reasonably feasible.
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
To the extent possible, Rincon will incorporate information from existing environmental and planning
documents that are applicable to the project site and specific project. Especially relevant will be
applicant- and City -prepared technical studies for the proposed project.
Subtask 5.1: Executive Summary. The EIR will contain a summary of the proposed project and
associated environmental consequences. This information will be presented in tabular format to simplify
review by decision -makers and the general public. This section will identify:
• Each potential environmental impact;
• The level of significance of each impact;
• Mitigation measures required; and
• Residual impacts after mitigation.
The summary will also note areas of known controversy and an assessment of the alternatives reviewed
and their associated impacts. The summary will identify the environmentally superior alternative and
rationale for its selection as such.
Subtask 5.2: Introduction and Environmental Setting. The EIR will provide introductory sections
(required by CEQA) that lay the groundwork for and summarize the substantive analysis to follow.
The introduction will describe the purpose and legal authority of the study, and provide a discussion
of lead, responsible and trustee agencies. The environmental setting will provide a general description
of the existing geographic character of the City of Santa Clarita and the immediate site vicinity as well
as describing planned and pending development in the area.
Subtask 5.3: Environmental Impact Analysis. Each environmental issue addressed in the EIR will
have four main subsections:
• Setting
• Impact analysis
• Mitigation measures
• Level of significance after mitigation
The setting will be based on existing data sources, including the City's General Plan and ordinances,
other relevant EIRs prepared during recent years, and data developed as part of the applicant -
prepared studies. Where possible, impacts will be quantified. If existing data does not allow definitive
quantification, reasonable assumptions will be used to qualitatively forecast potential impacts.
Cumulative impacts will be discussed within this analysis, but at a lesser level of detail than the
project -specific impacts. Mitigation measures may include a range of design measures and programs
as proposed by City staff and the consultant team. All mitigation measures will be presented in
wording that can be directly applied to conditions of approval and will include monitoring
requirements.
The technical approach to analyzing each issue identified in the City's RFP is described in Section 3.3,
Technical Approach to Environmental Issues. If the NOP scoping process leads to a determination that
additional issues are required for examination, additional budget and a modified scope of work would
be required.
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Subtask 5.4: Alternatives. Up to four alternatives will be identified during the course of the study
in concert with City staff and applicant. Evaluation of alternatives will be in less detail than for the
proposed project, though the analysis will provide decision -makers and the public adequate
information to decide among alternatives. This section will also identify the "environmentally superior
alternative." If the "no project - no building" alternative is determined to be environmentally superior,
the EIR will identify the environmentally superior alternative among the remaining scenarios.
Subtask 5.5: Other CEQA-Required Sections. The EIR will include all other sections required by
the CEQA Guidelines, including growth -inducing impacts and a discussion of irreversible changes.
Rincon will provide 15 copies of a preliminary draft of the EIR for a thorough staff review. Two copies
of the appendices will also be provided. Thereafter, key consultant team members will meet with the
staff in order to discuss any concerns, modifications, and input to the analysis and proposed mitigation
measures.
Output: Rincon will deliver 15 copies of the Administrative Draft EIR and 3 copies of the technical appendices.
Task 6: Draft EIR
This task involves the production, editorial work, and communication processes anticipated to publish
the Draft EIR for public review and comment. We understand that the City will be responsible for
circulating the Draft EIR to commenting agencies and interested groups or individuals and that Rincon
will file a Notice of Completion with the State Office of Planning and Research. We have assumed that
the City will give notice to all organizations and individuals who have expressed interest in receiving
such notice and publish the notice in a local newspaper. We have included publication of 60 copies of
the Draft EIR and a reproducible master, and 30 copies of the technical appendices. We will deliver 15
copies directly to the State Clearinghouse. The remainder will be delivered to the City and it is
assumed that the City will be responsible for delivery to other agencies, including the County Clerk.
Output: Rincon will deliver 60 copies of the Draft EIR, and one reproducible master, and 30 copies of the
technical appendices.
Task 7: Public Hearings
Rincon's Principal in Charge and/or the Project Manager will attend up to eight public hearings
(assumed to be four with the Planning Commission and four with the City Council). Attendance will
include oral presentations to the hearing body and graphic presentations, if necessary. These hearings
can be scheduled and selected at the City's discretion. We will attend additional hearings on a time -
and -materials basis, in accordance with our standard fees.
Output: If desired, Rincon will prepare overhead slides to supplement the oral presentation before the Planning
Commission and City Council.
Task S: Final EIR
The final formal stages of the EIR process involve responding to comments, public hearings (see Task 7
above), and final publication tasks. At this point, all of the discretionary permit applications and the
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Draft EIR are brought together for final public governmental scrutiny leading to decisions regarding
approval. Through this process, final changes and policy decisions concerning the project are made.
Our work effort regarding this task is delineated below.
Subtask 8.1: Responses to Comments/Draft Final EIR. Subsequent to receipt of all public
comments on the Draft EIR, Rincon will submit 10 copies of the draft responses for City review,
including any added or substantially revised sections of the Draft EIR that may be necessary. The final
version of the response to comments will be incorporated into the Final EIR. Subsequently, we will
modify as necessary any text or data in the EIR that requires such a step. At the discretion of City staff,
we will produce up to 40 copies of a Responses to Comments Report for consideration at the Planning
Commission and City Council hearings or 40 copies of the Final EIR (including the responses to
comments and the text Draft EIR amended with changes stemming from the comments and responses).
Within 7 days of project approval, Rincon will file a Notice of Determination (NOD) with the County
Clerk and the Office of Planning and Research.
Output: Rincon will deliver 10 copies of the draft Responses to Comments Report, and 40 copies of either a final
Responses to Comments Report or the Final EIR.
Task 9: Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan
Rincon will prepare the Mitigation Monitoring Plan as required under CEQA. The Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting Plan will be provided in a format designed for use by planners or code
enforcement officers. Essentially, this plan will take the form of a detailed table. The table will
compile all of the adopted mitigation measures developed within the body of the EIR, as well as
information necessary to monitor compliance with each measure. The program will include:
• Suggested wording as a condition of approval
• Identification of persons/agencies responsible for monitoring compliance with each condition
• Timing when monitoring must occur
• Frequency of monitoring
• Criteria to be used to determine compliance with conditions
Output: Rincon will deliver the draft Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program with the draft Responses
to Comments Report and a Final MMRP with the Final EIR.
3.3 TECHNICAL APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Based on the City's RFP and the Initial Study, we anticipate evaluating 6 environmental issues in the
EIR, including:
• Traffic and Circulation
• Air Quality
• Aesthetics
• Water Resources
• Noise
• Solid Waste
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Based on our review of the Initial Study, the following issues have been found to be not significant.
• Geology and Soils
• Public Services
• Cultural Resources
• Biological Resources
• Land Use
• Energy and Mineral Resources
• Population and Housing
• Agricultural Resources
The Initial Study prepared for the project and that documents these findings would be appended to the
EIR. If during the public scoping and NOP process it is determined that any of these issues require
further examination, this work scope and cost would be amended accordingly.
Transportation/Circulation. According to the RFP, the applicant has retained a qualified traffic
consultant (Austin -Foust Associates) to prepare the traffic and parking impact assessment for the
proposed project. We understand that the traffic and parking impact assessment will be peer reviewed
internally by City staff but that the City would like an independent peer review by the EIR consulting
team. Rincon has retained Associated Transportation Engineers (ATE) to conduct the peer review of
the applicants traffic study. The EIR will include the following assessment.
ATE will provide a peer review of the traffic and parking study prepared for the Valencia Town
Center Phase II development. Upon completion of our review, ATE will provide written
comments to the City, prior to preparing the EIR traffic and circulation section. Issues to be
addressed will include baseline traffic volumes, project trip generation, project trip distribution
assumptions, cumulative traffic forecast, levels of service calculations, parking demand
analysis, and project mitigation measures reported in the traffic study. It is assumed that
revisions or modifications to the existing traffic study will be completed by Austin -Foust
Associates, the engineering firm responsible for preparing the traffic study.
• Based on our review and comment of the traffic and parking study and the modifications
completed by the applicant's traffic consultant (if required), ATE will prepare the traffic,
circulation and parking section of the EIR. The section will include a summary of the technical
analysis presented in the traffic study.
• ATE will develop project mitigation measures for the EIR document.
• ATE will respond to comments made upon review of the Administrative and Public Draft EIRs,
and will assist staff at Rincon Consultants, Inc. in preparing the Final EIR document.
We have assumed that Austin -Foust Associates will also be available to respond to comments that
pertain to their technical evaluation of traffic and parking issues. If necessary, we assume that Austin -
Foust Associates and will provide us with a memorandum that lists the comment number and
response for information requiring their input. This memorandum would be reviewed by Rincon and
where necessary, ATE, and then incorporated into the Response to Comments Report.
City of Santa C/arita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Air Quality. Rincon will prepare the technical analysis of potential air quality impacts associated
with project construction and operation. The air quality section will be prepared in accordance with
the methodologies outlined in the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) CEQA Air
Quality Handbook. Air pollutant emissions will be modeled using the URBEMIS2002 computer model.
The motor vehicle constituents of concern include ROG, NOx, CO, and Mr. Significance criteria will
be based on SCAQMD thresholds.
Potential long-term emissions associated with the project would primarily be a result of increased
traffic and/or increased vehicle miles traveled. Mobile emissions will be associated with commuter
vehicle use employees and patrons of the proposed commercial and retail uses. Long-term emissions
will also be modeled using the URBEMIS 2002 model based on the proposed land uses and traffic data
from the applicant -prepared traffic study. Vehicle use factors to be employed in the analysis will be
coordinated with the traffic study and will include:
• Number of vehicle trips;
• Percent cold -hot start,
• Types of trips and average speed; and
• Vehicle miles traveled per day.
Given the extent of the proposed grading and its proximity to adjoining residential areas, construction
related air emissions may be a significant short-term problem. This evaluation will include an
assessment of dust impacts as well as emissions associated with heavy construction equipment. These
emissions will be compared to state and federal Air Quality Standards and SCAQMD construction
emissions thresholds for determination of significance.
Cumulative impacts will be addressed based on pending projects that are envisioned in the immediate
area as defined at project initiation. The impact analysis will also include a generalized review of
consistency with regional planning efforts such as:
• Consistency with the 1997 Air Quality Management Plan; and
• Consistency with the emission forecasts of the Plan.
Where necessary, the EIR will identify measures required to mitigate air quality impacts identified,
such as:
• Dust control measures during construction;
• General transportation measures; and
• Energy saving measures.
Aesthetics. The proposed development would be readily visible to travelers along three major
streets; Valencia Boulevard, McBean Parkway, and Magic Mountain Parkway. The proposed project,
while similar in character to the existing onsite uses, would represent a noticeable change in the views
of the project site, and one that will be viewed by a large number of travelers through the City every
day.
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Rincon proposes to visually characterize the project site through photographs to be taken from publicly
accessible viewing locations such as roadways. Based on the site reconnaissance and policy analysis,
important visual resources will be identified. In addition, we understand that the applicant will be
preparing independent photo simulations of the project from key vantage points in the project area.
Rincon will peer review these simulations to confirm that they accurately depict the projects effect on the
view corridors.
The impact analysis will discuss the subjectivity of visual aesthetic and the significance criteria to be
used in the analysis. We propose to base significance on criteria that have been applied by the City of
Santa Clarita in recent EIRs, with land use policies and public viewsheds being the primary concerns.
The visual resources discussion will focus on describing the existing visibility of the site from various
locations, the changed visual condition with the project within the context of existing obstructions to
views, and the visual effect of the proposed building massing with respect to nearby sensitive viewing
locations. If appropriate, recommendations with respect to setback, landscaping treatment, and open
space/ development interface zones will be developed. Additional mitigation measures that may be
identified for the project could include architectural controls, recommendations regarding the massing
and fenestration of structures.
We propose to include the applicant's photosimulations in the EIR (after they are peer reviewed) as a
way of illustrating the project's visual impact. It has been our experience that such simulations can be
helpful in communicating the effects of a project, especially in controversial cases.
We have assumed that up to four photo -simulations will be outputted and reproduced in the EIR as
color images on an 11"x17" format with existing and post -project conditions images on the same page.
Images will be reviewed with City staff prior to publication. If requested, larger scale output for use
during public hearings can be provided as an optional item at an additional cost.
Since the project site is largely developed, the expansion of additional commercial retail uses should
not significantly transform the nature of the nighttime lighting character of the property. However,
the proposed street lights, parking lot lighting for commercial uses, and signage for the commercial
uses would be examined to identify their potential to substantially alter the current setting and thus
adversely affect nearby sensitive land uses. This issue will be evaluated in the EIR using qualitative
analytical techniques.
Water Resources. The proposed project has the potential to increase the amount and character of
surface runoff. The effect of this increase in runoff on flooding will be examined in the water resources
section of the EIR. This section will focus on the potential effects of this runoff and increased non -
point source discharges such as parking lot and other urban runoff on downstream water quality. The
analysis will be based on existing information sources, including but not limited to the applicant's
grading and drainage plans and any other hydrology studies that may be available for the project site
and immediate area.
Regulations under the federal Clean Water Act and the State Water Resource Control Board require
that the project comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The
project will need to comply with Clean Water Act (NPDES) storm water permit requirements,
including appropriate mitigation measures including Best Management Practices (BMP's).
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Rincon will review the applicanes studies and summarize the findings in the EIR. Specific tasks to be
undertaken as part of this scope of work include:
• Site visit of local drainage area
• Review of applicant's drainage and grading plans and hydrology/drainage report, as available.
• Review of literature sources and contact local authorities to establish existing storm flow and potential
flooding through property and any existing downstream drainage problems.
• Assessment of impacts as a result of increased runoff from the site development
• Identification of potential drainage deficiencies associated with proposed drainage facilities.
• Identification of feasible mitigation measures to avoid flooding impacts and retain increased project
storm flows within the site.
• Review, assessment, and identification of feasible mitigation measures for proposed best management
practices for stormwater quality management in accordance with applicable NPDES requirements.
This section of the EIR will also examine the City's existing and future water supply system and its
ability to meet long term water demands of the project and other cumulative development within the
City. The recently enacted Senate Bill No. 610 (Costa) requires a city or county which determines that a
"project" (as defined in Water Code § 10912) is subject to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) to identify any public water system that may supply water for the project and to request those
public purveyors to prepare a specific water supply assessment. Specifically, Water Code Section
10910(a) states that projects, as defined in Section 10912, are required to prepare a water supply
assessment. A "project' under Section 10912 includes "a proposed shopping center or business
establishment... having more than 500,000 square feet of floor space." Under this definition, the
proposed project will require that the local water purveyor provide a water supply assessment report
for the project. It is our understanding that the applicant is currently preparing this study. Rincon
would work closely with City staff and local water purveyor concerning the adequacy of this
assessment.
The assessment is required to include an identification of existing water supply entitlements, water
rights, or water service contracts relevant to the identified water supply for the proposed project and
water received in prior years pursuant to those entitlements, rights, and contracts. The assessment
must be approved by the governing body of the public water purveyor that will supply water to the
project. If the projected water demand associated with the project was included as part of the most
recently adopted urban water management plan, the public water purveyor may incorporate the
required information from the urban water management plan in the water supply assessment.
It is noted that if the public water system assessment concludes that water supplies are, or will be,
insufficient, plans for acquiring additional water supplies are required to be submitted to the city or
county. The City must include the water supply assessment in the environmental document prepared
for the project pursuant to the act. It also requires the City to determine whether project water supplies
will be sufficient to satisfy the demands of the project, in addition to existing and planned future uses.
This section will summarize the findings of the water supply assessment report. In addition, this
section will summarize the project's increase in water demand and will identify the sources available
to meet that demand. Where impacts are identified, this section will examine mitigation options
needed to reduce project impacts to a less than significant level.
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
Noise. The proposed project involves the addition of about 620,000 square feet of additional
floor area to the existing Valencia Town Center. Potential noise impacts associated with this project
include short-term construction noise during the construction period and long term noise associated
with increased vehicular traffic and other operational aspects of the project such as merchandise
deliveries, solid waste collection, etc.
Rincon will prepare the technical analysis of potential noise impacts for the EIR. This section of the
EIR will examine the current noise sources in the project area, particularly local streets, and will
identify noise sensitive uses that may be adversely affected by the proposed project. Noise levels will
be modeled or measured at key sensitive receptor locations to establish baseline conditions. In
addition, relevant information contained in the City's Noise Element will be summarized in the EIR.
Based on information from the applicant -prepared traffic study, Rincon will model increased noise
levels associated with project related traffic with a focus on increased levels at sensitive receptor
locations. Projected nose levels will be compared to adopted significance thresholds and a significance
determination will be made. Where significant impacts are identified, mitigation measures will be
developed (where possible) to avoid or minimize potential project effects.
The site plan will also be examined to determine potential noise conflicts associated with proposed site
operations such as deliveries and solid waste disposal activities. In addition, the presence of any other
stationary noise sources such as compressors or air conditioning units will be evaluated to identify
potential impacts to nearby residential areas or other sensitive uses.
In addition to the long-term effects of the project on the local noise environment, the EIR will examine
the short-term effects of construction activities. This section of the EIR will identify the type and
number of construction equipment that would be used, sum the total noise generated from such
sources, and project resultant noise levels at any sensitive receptors. The duration of construction
impacts will be identified, the time of day that construction would occur, and the effect of anticipated
construction phasing will be discussed. In addition, the affects of transport of construction equipment
to and from the site and any import or export of fill material will be examined.
Where significant construction impacts are identified, mitigation measures will be developed to
minimize the project's short-term noise impacts on sensitive receptors.
Solid Waste. This section will investigate the project's effects on landfill services. Rincon staff
will contact local solid waste disposal providers and landfills serving the Santa Clarita area to evaluate
potential impacts to solid waste disposal systems and facilities. To the extent possible, we will
quantify increased demands for service and compare these demands to current service capabilities and
locally recognized thresholds of significance, where available. Where potentially significant impacts
are identified, we will work closely with service provider staff to develop mitigation measures and
programs that are capable of reducing site demands for services and/or enhancing any deficiencies
that may exist. The analysis of potential impacts to solid waste facilites will include the following:
Consultation with appropriate service providers
A review of existing information
Evaluation and discussion of the current and anticipate future status of collection and disposal systems
in the project area
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
• Quantification of project -related solid waste generation for both the operational and construction phases
of development
• Identification and discussion of significant impacts to solid waste collection and disposal systems
• Identification and discussion of feasible mitigation measures
1 "O RI)am
We understand that the City has assigned a high priority to completing this EIR in a timely and
efficient manner. We have proposed an aggressive schedule that we believe will expedite the CEQA
processing of this important project. Attached hereto is a copy of our proposed schedule. Assuming a
start date of March 1, 2004 and the timely delivery of all technical reports to be provided by the
applicant team our proposed schedule is as follows:
• Contract Authorization -March 1, 2004
• March 7, 2007 - Rincon to submit NOP to State Clearinghouse
• March 1, 2003 - April 1, 2004 - Rincon to attend Public Scoping Meeting (to be scheduled and noticed
by City staff)
• April 20, 2004 - Rincon to submit Administrative Draft EIR for City review
• May 20, 2004 - Rincon to prepare and circulate Draft EIR to State Clearinghouse (45 -day public review
period)
• August 1, 2004 - Rincon to deliver Administrative Final EIR and MMRP
• August 20, 2004 - Rincon to deliver Final EIR and MMRP to City
This schedule assumes that the traffic and parking report and all other technical reports will be made
available to Rincon in an electronic format no later than March 15, 2004 and that the City is able to
adhere to the internal review program outlined herein.
5.0 COST and INSURANCE
Rincon will prepare the EIR for the Valencia Town Center Phase II Project in accordance with our
proposed scope of services, for a fee not -to -exceed cost of $69,583. The attached table provides a
breakdown of costs by task. The not -to -exceed cost includes finalization of the Initial Study,
administrative Draft and Draft EIRs, Responses to Comments/Final EIR, and a Mitigation Monitoring
and Reporting Program. We have budgeted 34 hours of professional staff time to respond to
comments on the Draft EIR.
The coordination and management of a kickoff meeting and attendance at a public scoping meeting
and up to eight public hearings are also included in the estimated budget. The timing for the scoping
meeting and public hearings is at the discretion of the City. Working meetings with City staff are
assumed to be part of the process, and are included in the project management budget. It can be
assumed that the City and consultant team would meet prior to each milestone and upon conclusion of
City review of preliminary draft products.
The proposed scope of services and associated costs are fully negotiable to meet the needs of the City
of Santa Clarita. Additional work, not included within our proposed work program, will be completed
City of Santa Clarita
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City of Santa Clarita
Valencia Town Center Phase II Project
Proposal to Prepare Environmental Impact Report
only upon written City authorization in accordance with our Standard Fee Schedule (included in the
Appendix to our proposal).
Rincon Consultants maintains Workmen's Compensation Insurance in accordance with Section 3700 of
the Labor Code. Our insurer is the State Fund. Rincon maintains general liability, professional
liability, and automobile liability in the amounts that meet or exceed City of Santa Clarita
requirements. We offer this benefit to our clients because of the range of environmental investigations
the firm performs, including soil and groundwater assessment and remediation.
This offer for professional services will remain in effect for a period of 60 days from the date of this
proposal. During this period, questions regarding our proposed scope of services may be directed to
Mr. Stephen Svete, AICP, President, or Joe Power, AICP, Planning Manager of Rincon Consultants, Inc.
City of Santa Clarita
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