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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRCC MIN 1995/08/21MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING Resource Conservation Commission Chula Vista, California 6:30 p.m. Conference Room 1 Mondav. Julv 10. 1995 Public Services Buildi~ CALL MEETING TO ORDER/ROLL CALL: The meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Burrascano, Commissioners Hall, Marquez, Clark, and Thornburg MEMBERS ABSENT: Commissioner Fisher STAFF PRESENT: Environmental Review Coordinator Doug Reid, Environmental Projects Manager Joe Monaco, Conservation Coordinator Michael Meacham MSUC (Hall/Clark) (5-0) to excuse the absence of Commissioner Fisher. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MSUC (Marquez/Thornburg) (5-0), corrected by Marquez to modify under New Business, second to last sentence, "that concern was also expressed regarding the open space on the upper levels and that a suggestion was made that a play area be set aside on the ground level." PRESENTATION OF PROJECTS 2. Review of EIR-95-03. MCA Amphitheater (moved to first in order) Staff Presentation Environmental Projects Manager Joe Monaco reviewed the processing for this project, noting that the draft EIR had been published on June 19, 1995 and had been sent to the state clearinghouse with a request fora 30-day (shortened) public review period due to project scheduling needs. He stated that this request had not yet been acted upon, but that the project was tentatively scheduled for a Planning Commission hearing and closing of the public review period on July 19th. Mr. Monaco stated that approximately 1,500 public notices regarding the EIR had been sent out in an effort to be as comprehensive as possible. He added that on June 22, a public forum had also been held at which some 23 members of the public had been in attendance to discuss the project. Mr. Monaco reviewed some of the environmental issues discussed within the EIR, noting that this use is an unclassified use which requires a conditional use permit. He stated that no land use issues were identified. With respect to transportation and circulation, the project generates approximately 12,000 ADTs at its maximum capacity, whereas currently planned uses for the site could generate 14,000 ADTs. However, Mr. Monaco noted that the trips differed characteristically, as most of the trips associated with the amphitheater would occur within a single hour period. The southbound offramps of I-805 at Otay Valley Road, as well as the segment of Otay Valley Road from Nirvana to the bridge crossing the Otay Valley river would be significantly impacted; measures are discussed in the EIR to mitigate these impacts, including a traffic monitoring and management program. With these, impacts would be less than Resource Conservation Commission -2- July 10 1995 significant. Mr. Monaco stated that noise is a major concern on this type of project. He stated that construction noise could impact the riparian habitat, but that a biological consultant had determined that it would not be significant. Traffic noise had been determined to be less than significant, although concert noise was potentially significant, particularly to future residential areas in San Diego and the Otay Ranch project. However, Mr. Monaco advised that three mitigation measures had been identified and would be included in the conditional use permit. With respect to noise impacts upon sensitive species, consultants had determined that based upon the timing and duration of the noise impacts, they would be at less than significant levels. Mr. Monaco reviewed other potential impacts, and advised that the environmental consultant who had prepared the EIR, as well representatives for the applicant, were present to answer questions. Committee Questions/Discussion Commissioner Hall stated that residents were located closer than was indicated; Mr. Monaco stated that he had personally monitored the noise tests, and that there had been no audible noises from any of the residential areas nearby. Ms. Hall stated that she was concerned about discussion of fireworks and potential fire hazards, and the extent of the road improvements which do not carry to the project entrance. Mr. Monaco responded that road improvements would be required as far as the project entrance, but would not include Heritage Road beyond; he also reviewed time frames involved with project improvements and monitoring programs suggested. Commissioner Marquez asked about the average duration of concerts; applicant Chris Bitterlin stated that the average concert season would have approximately thirty-five events, although this could vary significantly. He added that concerts as a rule do not get out past midnight, stating that an average concert would likely start around 7:00 or 8:00 p. m. with an opening act and end around 11:00 or 11:30 p.m. He stated that most would take place during summer months; April through October is the typical touring season. Mr. Bitterlin also stated that the sixty night estimate was based upon additional programs such as the Summer Pops series. Commissioner Burrascano questioned the noise levels described in the EIR. Commissioner Marquez expressed concern about the open-air market and questioned the number of people anticipated to attend. Traffic and customer counts were discussed. Commissioner Clark asked about the lighting plan; Mc Bitterlin stated that parking lot lighting would be shielded to prevent it from going off-site and that theater lighting would be directed around the stage area. Fireworks were discussed; Mr. Bitterlin stated that this would be sporadic; they would be shot off right behind the stage over the paved parking area and would be within a very controlled environment. Commissioner Clark stated that one current least's bell vireo pair that lived within the sixty decibel level area, and that in previous years there were others, questioning why this was considered not to be a significant impact even though this exceeds Fish and Wildlife standards. Mr. Monaco responded that this had been discussed in meetings with Fish and Wildlife staff and Resource Conservation Commission -3- July 10 1995 sent to their staff, but that he did not believe that commission had formally reviewed the document. In response to questions, Mr. Monaco stated that no written public comments had been received regarding the draft, but that at a public forum the majority of the questions related to traffic. Representatives from Baldwin had also voiced concern regarding noise impacts to future residential projects. Commissioner Marquez noted that reptilian and amphibian species had not been surveyed for and expressed concern regarding oil and parking lot run-off into the river despite monitoring. Mr. Bitterlin pointed out that the project's grass areas provided the opportunity to catch 35 %-40 % of the run-off, more than was currently prevented by the existing industrial park. Ms. Marquez asked about opportunities for mass transit; it was indicated that this was planned for, but that specifics had not been worked out. Commissioner Hall asked about the alternatives and discussion ensued about the Bayfront site, which is within the Port District's jurisdiction. Commissioner Marquez expressed concern about the impact of sprinklers that were part of previous mitigation efforts on the coastal sage scrub . Mr. Monaco stated that this project was being required to dedicate the coastal sage scrub areas. Fiscal questions were mentioned and Mr. Bitterlin stated that over aten-year period, a conservative figure provided approximately $4 million net to the City within that time frame. Commissioner Marquez stated that it is difficult to evaluate suggested mitigation, especially when so many of them are up in the air - i.e. when development comes in, then deciding how to deal with noise. Mr. Monaco responded that with respect to noise, the project would be held to the noise ordinance, and consultants had stated that there are feasible mitigations for this. Ms. Marquez stated that she was also uncomfortable with indirect impacts, such as those to the riparian areas. Motion/Second (Burrascano/Clark) to accept draft EIR-95-03. Commissioner Hall stated that she felt that traffic was problematic, and that public transportation should be seriously explored. Commissioner Marquez stated that she could not see putting this type of use near residential and regional park uses. Mr. Bitterlin stated that these were comments on the project itself rather than the adequacy of the EIR. Vote on the motion was 3-2, Marquez and Hall opposed; motion failed. In response to further discussion of concerns, Mr. Monaco stated that to address concerns regazding traffic, the establishment of a transit line, which is the City's responsibility, could be required; also, the applicant could be required to establish a program for providing remote parking and bussing into the events. Commissioner Hall stated that with this, she could vote in favor of the adequacy of the EIR. Motion/Second Carried (Hall/Burrascano)(4-1, Marquez opposed) to accept the adequacy of EIR-95-03 subject to the inclusion of mitigation measures requiring the establishment of a transit line from an appropriate trausit facility (e.g. the closest trolley station) and the providing of a mass transit type of transportation from remote parking locations. Motion/Second (Marquez/Hall) (1-4, Marquez in favor) to recommend that serious consideration be given to whether this use is appropriate for that part of the city, to the possibility of increasing crime and impacts to nearby residents, and that the alternative amphitheater site at the Bayfront be given consideration. Motion failed. Resource Conservation Commission -4- July 10 1995 regarding traffic, the establishment of a transit line, which is the City's responsibility, could be required; also, the applicant could be required to establish a program for providing remote parking and busing into the events. Commissioner Hall stated that with this, she could vote in favor of the adequacy of the EIR. Motion/Second Carried (Hall/Burrascano)(4-1 Marquez opposed) to accept the adequacy of EIR- 95-03 subject to the inclusion of mitigation measures requiring the establishment of a transit line from an appropriate transit facility (e.g. the closest trolley station) and the providing of a mass transit type of transportation from remote parking locations. Motion/Second (Marquez/Hall) (1-4, Marquez in favor) to recommend [hat serious consideration be given to whether this use is appropriate for that part of the city, to the possibility of increasing crime and impacts to nearby residents, and that the alternative amphitheater site at the Bayfront be given consideration. Motion failed. 3. Scavenging Grant Application Conservation Coordinator Michael Meacham stated that this item deals with an opportunity to request funds from the Department of Conservation, Division of Recycling, for a new program. Mr. Meacham noted that recent decreases in collection fees had resulted from successful curbside recycling efforts, but noted that due to the increased value of recyclable products (e.g. newspaper and aluminum cans), theft of curbside products has been occurring. As a result, funds will be requested to address the problem; monies will include overtime for community service officers in order to monitor this situation, which occurs largely between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. Mr. Meacham stated that late night patrol officers are already provided with a grid of the city and where recyclables are collected ou certain days. He further noted that Laidlaw keeps an eye out for scavengers, but that the key is the ability to confiscate the materials found when scavengers are caught. A computer is also being requested in order to keep track of repeat offenders and make other cities aware of them as well. Mr. Meacham stated that Laidlaw would be responsible for collection and property documentation, while his role would be to oversee the program. Commissioner Marquez asked if this problem is widespread; Mr. Meacham stated that with the current high value of the products, theft is occurring everywhere. He asked that the commission approve the request for up to $50,000.00 with a statement of support, although he stated that he anticipated the City would more likely be eligible for a grant in the range of $8,000.00 to $15,000.00. Members discussed situations in which they had seen strange trucks picking up recyclables. Mr. Meacham further reviewed the numbers involved monetarily, as well as current efforts to address the problem. MSUC (Burrascano/Hall) (5-0) to recommend that the scavenging grant application be approved and forwarded. MSUC (Marquez/Burrascano)(5-0) to recommend that recycling pick-up occur no sooner than 7:00 a. m. in order to encourage morning placement of recycling products and reduce theft opportunities. Resource Conservation Conunission -5- Julv 10 1995 Mr. Meacham then reviewed the status of a variety of other current programs aimed at reducing products in the waste stream. 4. Review of Negative Declaration IS-95-12 St John's ED1SCOpaI Church MSUC (Hall/Thornburg) (5-0) to recommend approval of IS-95-12. In response to questions by commissioners Marquez and Clark, Environmental Review Coordinator Doug Reid clarified the number of students, as well as plans for the drainage channel. Commissioner Marquez stated that she would like to recommend that the applicants ensure that non-water-invasive plantings be utilized near the channel. 5. Review of Negative Declaration IS-94-11 4th Ave Street Improvements Commissioner Hall commented on the proximity of some of the houses to the new street. Mr. Reid stated in response to questions that some houses would become non-conforming with respect to setbacks, and that he believed that one property would have to be purchased. MSUC (Clark/Burrascano) (5-0) to recommend approval of IS-94-11. Commissioner Hall asked what would happen if an owner did not want the improvements; Mr. Reid responded that they would not be forced to participate. He added that if a property was condemned as a result of the improvements, the Initial Study would be amended and would be brought back to the Resource Conservation Commission. 1. Election of Officers After discussion, it was suggested that elections should wait until commissioner Fisher was present. MSUC (Burrascano/Clazk) (5-0) to postpone election of officers to the next meeting when all commissioners would be present. REVIEW OF PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA. MEETING OF JULY 12. 1995 Mr. Reid advised that the Trinity Adult Residential Care facility, PCC-95-24, was scheduled for the upcoming Planning Commission meeting of July 12th. STAFF COMMENTS Mr. Reid provided members with information on the RCC's budget; he noted that it no longer provides for outside secretarial services. Members questioned how other committee's obtained such services; Mr. Reid responded that most utilized staff people. Chair Burrascano stated that she had spoken with Planning Director Robert Leiter, who had indicated that if funds were not available in the budget, a staff person could be utilized (other than Mr. Reid) for minutes. Mr. Reid stated that printing and postage costs had increased substantially. Resource Conservation Commission -6- July 10 1995 Mr. Reid stated that the MSCP package had just gone out to the City of San Diego. He noted that rather than wait for the next agenda package delivery, he would send copies to members within the next few days. Mr. Reid further noted that the County had requested a 90-day extension of time. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Marquez stated that a group called Friends of the South Bay was working with Fish and Wildlife and the Port District to work with each city on a pet project directed towards creating a wildlife refuge in the south bay area. Plans include an "eco-train" beginning in National City; encouragement of an amphitheater in Chula Vista's bayfront area; a "habitat hotel" and park in Imperial Beach; and a swimming beach in Coronado. The group is speaking to Council members in bay cities in order to encourage their support for something that is eco- touristic and well planned. Commissioner Marquez stated that a meeting with Mayor Horton is scheduled for July 26 and that meetings with other councils is planned; she invited RCC members to attend if they were interested in learning more about the efforts of this group. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Patty Ne ins, Recorder