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Home My WebLink About2009/11/03 Item 3 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT .::Sw~ CITY OF .~ (HULA VISTA ITEM TITLE: SUBMITTED BY: REVIEWED BY: NOVEMBER 3, 2009, Item 0 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE CALIFORl'lIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION'S INNOVATIVE URBAN GREENING GRANT PROGRAM TO EXPAND THE CHULA VISTA NATURES CAPE PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH IMPLEMENTING THE GRANT AGREEMENT DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES t I _c.. CITY MANAGER I ~f~ ASSISTANT CITY lANAGER ~ ";>J 4/5THS VOTE: YES 0 NO I X I SUMMARY In March 2009, the City Council approved submittal of a grant proposal for its NatureScape program to the CAL FIRE Innovative Urban Greening Grant Program. The Chula Vista NatureScape program is a community-based initiative to help property owners create wildlife-friendly, water-smart yards and gardens. The City's $53,000 grant proposal would provide funds to organize 6 free community workshops to educate the public about sustainable landscape designs and to distribute 300 NatureScape-In-A-Box kits to program participants. Due to California's budget issues, the Proposition-supported funding was delayed until recently. As a result, CAL FIRE is requesting that applicants revise their. grant submittal resolutions to include the new project end date of March 30, 2012. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The Environmental Review Coordinator has reviewed the proposed project for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined that the project qualifies for a Class 4 (b) categorical exemption pursuant to Section 15304, Minor Alterations to Land, of the State CEQA Guidelines. Thus, no further environmental review is necessary. 3-1 NOVEMBER 3, 2009, Item~ Page 2 of3 RECOMMENDATION Council adopt the resolution. BOARDS/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Although no formal recommendation was made, the Resource Conservation Commission was presented information on the grant proposal at their February 9th meeting and was supportive of the City's grant submittal. DISCUSSION In 2006, the City of Chula Vista established the community-based NatureScape program to help promote nature-friendly yards and gardens which incorporate food and shelter for wildlife, water-wise plants, mulching, composting and high efficiency irrigation systems. Through the program, staff assists residents, businesses and schools by hosting free public workshops and on-site landscape assessments. In addition, the program works closely with numerous community partners such as the Chula Vista Garden Club, Southwestern College, Audubon Society (San Diego Chapter), Sweetwater Authority and Otay Water District to leverage programmatic resources and broaden its positive environmental impact. Participants who successfully incorporate enough sustainable landscape features into their gardens and yards are able to get their properties "certified" through the N ationaI Wildlife Federation. To date, over 100 properties around Chula Vista have been certified through the program. The program's goal is to become the largest California city certified as a "Community Wildlife Habitat Area" through the National Wildlife Federation. The NatureScape program is also one of the core components of the Council-approved climate protection measures (#7) and helps indirectly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by lowering outdoor water use. At their March 3, 2009 meeting, the City Council approved the submittal of $53,000 proposal seeking additional resources for the NatureScape program through the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection's (CAL FIRE) Urban Greening Grant Program and authorized the City Manager to execute all documents in conjunction with implementing the grant agreement (Resolution #2009-038). Specifically, the grant proposal requested funding (personnel and supjJlies) to assemble and distribute 300 "NatureScape-In-A-Box" kits to help program participants create new or convert existing landscaping into more environmentally-friendly areas. The kits, which will consist of a compost bin, shade tree seedlings, water-saving hose nozzle, wildlife water dish and a bird feeder, are designed to emphasize and maximize the unique environmental services that urban "greening" areas can provide. The kits will include instructions on designing and maintaining sustainable outdoor natural areas. In addition, the grant proposal requests funding (personnel and supplies) to host at least 6 free public workshops. The workshops, which are organized with the assistance of local educators and technical experts, will help educate the broader community about sustainable landscaping practices. 3-2 NOVEMBER 3, 2009, Item 3 Page 3 of3 Until recently, the CAL FIRE Innovative Urban Greening Grant Program's funds, which are derived from voter-approved Propositions 40 and 84, have been withheld due to the State of California's budget issues. Because of this delay, CAL FIRE is now requesting that applicants revise their grant submittal resolutions to include a new project end date of March 30,2012. The attached resolution includes the requested changes by the nmding agency. DECISION MAKER CONFLICT Staff has determined that the recommendations requmng Council action are not site specific and consequently the 500 foot rule found in California Code of Regulations section I 8704.2(a)(\) is not applicable to this decision. CURRENT YEAR FISCAL IMP ACT The proposed grant project would not create a new impact to the City's General Fund. The grant would award $53,000 to the City to purchase all supplies and services associated with the proposed project. In addition, the grant would provide funding to fully support a part-time, hourly employee (20 hours/week) in the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services to assist with grant administration and project implementation. The matching funds required for the grant would be covered through the Conservation & Environmental Services Department's existing budget and external funding sources (ex. in-kind donations). ONGOING FISCAL IMPACT The proposed grant project, if awarded, would fund the purchase of all supplies and services associated with project implementation and would not create any ongoing net impact to the City's General Fund. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A - NatureScape-In-A-Box Grant Proposal Attachment B - Original Grant Submittal Resolution #2009-038 Prepared by: Brendan Reed, Environmental Resource Afanager, Conservation & Environmental Services 3-3 ATTACHMENT A ~\ft- ~ .~. .-- -.- - - --- -~ CITY OF CHULA ViSTA NA TURESCAPE-IN-A-BOX PROJECT FULL PROPOS.A..L CAL FIRE Innovative Urban Forestry Grant Program PROJECT OVERVIEW :.Vame ofOrgani=an"on City of Chula Vista ~ Department of Conservation & Environmental Services Authorized Ciry Representative Jim Sandoval City Manager #!d~."r/, Program Contact Brendan Reed Environmental Resource Nlanager 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista. CA 91910 619-409-5889 breedrwci .chu la-Vista. ca. us Brief Project Descriplion The Cit)' of Chula Vista will develop NalZlreScape-In-A-Box kits to help program participants Create ne\\' or convert existing landscaping into more environmentally~friendly areas. The kits will be designed to emphasize and maximize the unique environmental services that urban "greening" areas can provide. The kits will consist of five accessories - a compost bin, shade rree seedlings, water-saving hose nozzle, wildlife water dish and a bird feeder - as well as instructions on designing and maintaining sustainable outdoor natural areas. Working with local garden clubs, water districts and schools. the City of Chula Vista will host at least 6 free public workshops to educate community members about sustainable landscaping practices. The workshops will include sessions on nature-friendly plant selection, water-efficient irrigation techniques~ energy-saving landscape srrategies, composting, mulching and organic pesticides/fertilizers. Workshops will playa critical role in helping to shift the community's perception that urban "green" areas have to be expansive, water-intensive turf lawns. llalUreScape-In-A-Box Grant Proposal Ciry of Chula ViSta 1 of 5 3-4 Funding Levels Grant Amount - $53,000 Matching Funds - $52,375 Total Project Amount - $105,375 PROJECT NARRATIVE Project Significance The NatureScape-In-A-Box project is a locally significant project which also has the potential to be successfully replicated at a regional and statewide level. Project Objectives The goal of the City of Chula Vista's NatureScape-In-A-Box project is to foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns and landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally-friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb nmotI and provide habitat for wildlife. The project also builds upon the success of the City's ongoing NatureScape program that provides on-site assessments and certifications for sustainable yards and landscaping in the community. To achieve the project's goal, the City has established the following objectives: I. Develop and assemble at least 300 NatureScape-In-A-Box kits which will include educational materials and devices to help participants make their "green" areas more environmentally-sustainable 2. Host at least 6 free public workshops at the MacKenzie Creek Park demonstration garden to educate at least 300 participants about environmentally-friendly landscape design principles and the NatureScape-In-A-Box kits 3. Perform at least 300 on-site assessments for residents, businesses, schools and/or municipal facilities to evaluate their "green" areas, distribute the NatureScape-In- A-Box kits and certify their properties through the City's NatureSeape program Methods & Results To achieve these objectives, the City will work with current community stakeholder groups and technical experts to develop and launch the NatureScape-In-A-Box project. Community partners include 3 local gardening clubs, the San Diego Audubon Society (San Diego Chapter), Southwestern College, Gtay Water District and Sweetwater Authority Water District. City staff with the assistarice of its partners will purchase and assemble the NatureScape-In-A-Box kits and develop education materials to describe the kits' purpose and contents. Staff will integrate these kits into free community workshops which will broadly educate participants about environmentally-friendly landscaping and gardening practices. Workshops will be led by trained instructors and include various topics such as nature-friendly landscaping principles, proper plant selection, energy-efficient tree placement, high efficiency irrigation technologies and verrniculture composting. To help broadly promote the project, the City will develop printed flyers and signage to solicit public participation. Additional promotion will be through the City's (and community partners') established marketing channels including bimonthly Chula Vista CLEAN stakeholder meetings, print advertisements, utility bill inserts and electronic newsletters. These methods will help the project successfully achieve its stated objectives of distributing 300 kits and enrolling 300 residents in the workshops and overall NatureScape program. Participating residents will take the first crucial step to converting their hardscapes, turf lawns and water-thirsty landscaping into more environmentally-friendly NatureScape-In-A-Box Grant Proposal City of Chula Vista 20f5 3-5 "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife. Communitv Needs. Benefits, & Involvement With the rapid urbanization of California's landscapes, many communities are losing the environmental and societal benefits that "green" or natural areas create. The majority of remaining "green" areas are now limited to landscaping and yards surrounding residences, businesses, schools and municipal facilities. These vegetative areas still provide a critical suite of environmental services by stabilizing topsoils, reducing air pollutants, cooling air temperatures and absorbing stonnwater runoff. However, with the current statewide drought and the long-term scarcity of water in Southern California, a new paradigm of urban "greening" is developing. In lieu of water-thirsty lawns and exotic plant species, vegetative areas are now being designed to use watcr efficiently, to include wildlife- friendly plant species, to provide energy-saving shade and to capture stonnwater runoff. The City of Chula Vista's proposed NatureScape-In-A-Box project provides a powerful tool to educate residents, businesses and students about the importance of urban "greening" to a community's economic and environmental sustainability. Community involvement will include working with local garden clubs, water districts and schools to educate community members about sustainable landscaping practices (see Attachment A for community support letters). Community engagement will be achieved through half-day workshops providing educational sessions on nature-friendly plant selection, water-efficient irrigation techniques, energy-saving landscape strategies, proper shade tree planting & maintenance, compo sting, mulching and organic pesticides/fertilizers. Workshops will play a critical role in helping to shi ft the community's perception that urban "green" areas have to be expansive, water-intensive turf lawns. Finally, program participants who successfully incorporate these landscape features will be able to get their garden and/or yard certified as an otlicial environmentally- friendly habitat through the City's NatureScape program and the National Wildlife Federation. Participants also receive an aluminum sign for their property recognizing their certification and helping build community awareness for citywide urban greening efforts. PROJECT DESCRIPTION Location The City of Chula Vista is San Diego County's second largest municipality with approximately 227,000 residents. Located seven miles from downtown San Diego and seven miles from the busiest international border crossing in the world, Chula Vista is at the crossroads of the San Diego/Baja region. The City's total land area of 33,024 acres is diverse from coastal shoreline in the west to the San Miguel Mountains in the east. The majority of the City's remaining "green:' areas are now limited to landscaping and yards surrounding residences, businesses, schools and municipal [acilities. It is anticipated that the 300 properties receiving NatureScape-In-A-Box kits will be distributed evenly throughout the City's geographic area. NatureScape-In-A-Bnx Grant Proposal City of Chuta Vista 3 of 5 3-6 Project Staffing The NatureScape-In-A-Box program will involve a minimum of 4 City staff members from the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services. Staff positions range from Mid-Management and Professional levels to part-time entry level. All participating staff members have extensive experience with the design and implementation of community- based environmental initiatives. In addition, a minimum of 4 community partners will volunteer staffing sueh as Landscaping Professionals and Conservation Coordinators. Materials, Equipment, & Services Materials will be purchased through multiple vendors as follows: Bird Feeder (humming bird & sock feeder) and Hanging Birdbath - BestNest.com Compost Bins - The Home Depot, Positive Shut-Off Hose Nozzle - The Home Depot Plant Material- Recon Native Plants & The Home Depot. . Services to be provided to ensure successful project implementation include organizing public workshops, developing NatureScape-In-A-Box kits and marketing the program. These services will be provided by the Chula Vista Department of Conservation and Environmental Services. Additional technical expertise and advice will be obtained through partner agencies including, but not limited to, Southwestern College (Landscape Design & Horticulture Division), National Wildlife Federation, Sweetwater Authority and Otay Water District. No specialized equipment is required for project implementation. EDUCATION & PUBLIC AWARENESS Planned media applications include the City of Chula Vista's web site, the NatureScape brochure, workshop recruitment flyers, newspaper advertisements (Star News) and presentations to local community groups. In addition, project-specific publications will be developed and distributed through a direct mailer effort. These advertisements will reach up to 80,000 households in Chula Vista and help ensure that at least 300 residents participate in the project. ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST See Attachment B. CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION The City of Chula Vista's City Council will be voting on March 3, 2009 to adopt the resolution outlined in Attachment C. After the Council's vote, City staff will forward the signed resolution to its regional CAL FIRE Urban Forestry Specialist. OTHER FORMS Attachment D - Statement of Compliance with Applicable Laws Attachment E - Vendor Data Record NatureScape-In-A-Box Grant Proposal City ofChula Vista 40f5 3-7 Project Budget CALFIRE Match Total Notes Budget Item Funds Funds. Match Funds Kits include: Bird Feeder ~ $5.00 (Bestnest.com) 1. Develop & assemble "NatureScape- Bird Bath - $17.00 (Bestnest.com) $ - $ 17,475 $ 17,475 Compost Bin - $5.00 (Home Depot) /n-A-Box" kits Garden Hose Nozzle - $7.50 (Home Depot) Plant Material- $18.00 (RECON Nursery) Miscellaneous & Taxes - $5.75 State Funds 2. Host at least 6 free public workshops Workshop supplies and materials ($250 each) at the MacKenzie Creek Park $ 10,500 $ 9,500 $ 20,000 Env. Resource Specialist time ($94/hr; 16 hrs/wksp) demonstration garden Match Funds 6 Experts($25/hr; 10.5 hrs for each workshop) State Funds 50% of Conservation Specialist time ($15.50/hr; 20 hrs/wk 3. Perform on-site assessments & for 1.5 yrs) certify participants' properties through $ 32,500 $ 24,400 $ 56,900 5% of Env. Resource Manager ($11 O/hr; 2 hrsl\vk for 1.5 yrs) the City's NatureScape program Match Funds 6 Conservation Specialists time (2 hrsl\vk for 1.5 yrs) 300 certifications ($40 each) State Funds 4. Develop & distribute marketing & Printing & distribution of workshop packets, recruitment outreach materials $ 10,000 $ 1,000 $ 11,000 flyers, newspaper advertisements & direct mailers Match Funds Graphic Designer time (S200/marketing piece) TOTAL $ 53,000 $ 52,375 $ 105,375 50% 50% 100% . Matching funds are provided through in-kind community volunteer & City staff time as well as funding through the City's General Fund and local utility partnership program Project Timeline Task Description Duration Notes 1. Develop & assemble "NatureScape-ln- 6 months - Purchase materials for kits & assemble as A-Box" kits needed 2. Host at least 6 free public workshops - Schedule workshops at demonstration at the MacKenzie Creek Park 1.5 years garden every other month - Coordinate with presenters and technical demonstration garden experts for educational components 3. Perform on-site assessments & certify - Following each workshop, schedule participants' properties through the City's 1.5 years appointments with individuals to certify NatureScape program properties - Work with Graphic Artist to design and 4. Develop & distribute marketing & 3 Months develop materials for program outreach materials - Have materials printed & distributed thru City's marketing mechanisms 5. Program & grant administration 1.5 years - Establish procedures & schedule for grant reporting and invoicing NatllreScape-In-A-Box Grant Proposal City ofChula Vista 3-8 50f5 ATTACHMENT A SAN DIEGO AUDUBON SOCIETY 4891 Pacific Highway, Suite 112. San Dicgo CA 92110.619/682-7200 Mr. Michael Meacham Department of Conservation and Environmental Services 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista Ca 91910 Dear Mr. Meacham, Thc San Diego Audubon Society is pleased to support the "NatureScape in a Box" Program. We believe the "NatureScape in a Box" Program will help to foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns and landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally-friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife. The project also builds upon the success of the City's ongoing NatureScape program that provides on-site assessments and certifications of sustainable yards and landscaping in the community. The "NatureScape in a Box" program also complements our organization's 'Audubon at Home' program which similarly aims to educate and empower residents to develop and maintain spaces that support our local wildlife communities. In addition, this program harmonizes with the Flyway Cities Coalition, for which San Diego Audubon is the local coordinator. The goal of the Flyway Cities Coalition is to increase the quality and quantity of wildlife habitat in urban San Diego County while activating a strong foundation of public support and volunteerism for this effort. We feel confident that the "NatureScape in a Box" Program will not only directly benefit the community of Chula Vista, but will serve as an important model for expanding environmentally-friendly landscaping practices to greater San Diego County. We look forward to working with the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services and the "NatureS cape in a Box" Program once funded. Sincerely, J!~ 0L;J Shannon Dougherty Conservation Coordinator San Diego Audubon Society 3-9 1755 SOlum Boulevard Son Di"go. CA 92] 54 P 619 423.2284 F 619 423.0632 Ie<:~n !'lOl ive pic n 13 .cem RECON Native Plants, Inc. February 8, 2009 Mr. Michael Meacham Department of Conservation and Environmental Services 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista Ca 91910 Dear Mr. Meacham, RECON Native Plants, Inc. is pleased to support the "NatureScape in a Box" Program. We believe the "NatureScape in a Box" Program will help to foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns and landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally-friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife. The project also builds upon the success of the City's ongoing NatureScape program that provides on-site assessments and certifications of sustainable yards and landscaping in the community. This program also complements our organization by bringing awareness of native plants and native habiat to the average homeowner As water becomes more scarce in Southern California there will be an increase in demand for drought tolerant plants for the landscape. This program will be well positioned to lead in the conversion of landscapes towards drought tolerant and native plant material and help foster education about native plants among homeowners and their landscape contractor. We look forward to working with the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services and the "NatureScape in a Box" Program once funded. Sincerely, Ryan West General Manager RECON Native Plants, Inc. Via e-mail 3-10 _.,.c.~_.~...,.., . "~i:. ~. ... .' Li -'j SBBG @lSWC ,e'<l.\'''''''''_'' South Bay Botanic Garden February 1 0, 2009 ~r. ~ichael~eacharn Department of Conservation and Environmental Services 276 Fourth A venue Chula Vista Ca 91910 Dear Mr. Meacham, The South Bay Botanic Garden is pleased to support the "NatureScape in a Box" Pro- gram. We believe the "NatureScape in a Box" Program will help to foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns, and landscaping throughout the City into more environmen- tally-friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife. The project also builds upon the success of the City's ongo- ing NatureScape program that provides on-site assessments and certifications of sustain- able yards and landscaping in the community. This program also complements our organization by providing a showcase where local San Diego South Bay residents can visit our garden and observe how the "green" move- ment can be designed in both a beautiful, and yet functional, landscape. For example, we recently embarked on a project to convert 3,000 square feet of traditional turfgrass areas into a curving path bordered by water-saving ornamental grasses. Projects such as these can only benefit our visiting public and ultimately conserve our dwindling water sup- plies. We look forward to working with the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services and the "NatureS cape in a Box" Program once funded. Sincerely, Bill Hornyak, Professor South Bay Botanic Garden Southwestern College 900 Otay Lakes Road Chula Vista, CA 91910 619-421-6700 ext 5371 3-11 ...Cj)cdiCalcd lo CO",ll\u"il~ ge,\VlCe 2554 SWEETWATER SPRINGS BOULEVARD, SPRING VAllEY, CALIFORNIA 91978-2004 TELEPHONE: 670-2222, AREA CODE 619 Www.otaywater.gov February 17, 2009 Mr. Michael Meacham Department of Conservation and Environmental Services 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista Ca 91910 Dear Michael, The Gtay Water District is pleased to support the "NatureS cape in a Box" Program. We believe the "NatureScape in a Box" Program will help to foster the conversion of hardscapes, grass lawns and landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally- friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife. The project will build upon the success of the City's ongoing NatureScape program that provides on-site assessments and certifications of sustainable yards and landscaping in the community. This program also fully complements the District's ongomg water conservation and public outreach programs. We look forward to working with the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services and the "NatureS cape in a Box" Program once funded. Sincerely, W~L William E. Granger Water Conservation Manager 3-12 SWEETWATER AUTHORITY 505 GARRETT AVENUE POST OFFICE BOX 2328 CHULA VISTA, CALIFORNIA 91912-2328 (619) 420-1413 FAX (619) 425-7469 http://www.sweetwater.org GOVERNING BOARD W.O. "BUD" PCCKLINGTON. CHAIR RON MORRISON, VICE. CHAIR R. MITCHEL BEAUCHAMP JOSE PREClAOO MARIA RUBALCABA TERESA 'TEARY" THOMAS t,'lAAGAAET COOK WELSH MARK N. ROGERS GENERAL MANAGER JAMES L. SMYTH OPERATIONS MANAGER February 17, 2009 Mr. Michael Meacham City of Chula Vista Department of Conservation and Environmental Services 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista Ca 91910 Dear Mr. Meacham: Sweetwater Authority is pleased to support the "NatureScape in a Box" Program. We believe the "NatureScape in a Box" Program will help to foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns, and landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally- friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife_ The project also builds upon the success of the City's ongoing NatureScape program that provides on-site assessments and certifications of sustainable yards and landscaping in the community. This program also complements our organization by supporting the Authority's ongoing water use efficiency and public outreach programs. We look forward to working with the Department of Conservation and Environmental Services and the "NatureScape in a Box" Program once funded. Sincerely, '~L~ Mark Rogers General Manager A Public Water Agency Serving National City, C/;ula Vista and Surrounding Areas 3-13 I ATIACHMENT B Califomia Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Urban Forestry Program ~. .""""''-; '- ,. -,~- .-, ,ll'.'f ,_ ~~- ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST Part 1: ADMLNSTRATIYE INFORMATION 1. Project Title: NatureScape-ln-A-Box 2. Project Applicant's Name: City of Chula Vista 3. Name and title of checklist preparer' Brendan Reed, Environmental Resource Manager This checklist is intended for use by applicants for California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Urban Forestry Program projects. It is modeled after the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Environmental Checklist, which has been modified to more closely focus on the types of actions and impacts expected to occur while conducting urban forestry tree planting projects. As the lead agency under CEQA, CAL FIRE must make a determination as to a project's potential environmental impacts, develop mitigations if necessary and determine the level of environmental documentation and review required. The completion of this checklist will assist CAL FIRE in identifying impacts of the proposed project prior to approval. To meet that need someone that is intimately familiar with the project and knowledgeable on potential environmental consequences must complete this checklist. The information in the checklist is meant to supplement the information provided in your application. Maps and photos supplied with your application will assist in CAL FIRE's review. This checklist is available electronically (MS Word 97) or may be completed by hand. If you need assistance please contact CAL FIRE's Urban Forestry Program personnel. It is the intent of CAL FIRE and the Urban Forestry Program to approve tree-planting projects that are categorically exempt from further environmental review under CEQA. In order for a project to qualify for a categorical exemption CAL FIRE must find that there are no "unusual circumstances" associated with the project that lead to the project having impacts on environmental resources (e.g., threatened or endangered species, aesthetics, cultural resources, water quality, etc). CEQA does not allow for a project's impacts to be minimized or compensated under a categorical exemption; avoiding impacts to resources is the only mitigation permitted. To meet that end, the following questions were designed to identify environmental impacts that may occur in various tree-planting settings and encourage project applicants to develop measures to avoid those impacts. In the event that potential impacts to a resource are identified it is recommended that the project applicant redesign or reconfigure their project proposal to avoid impacts to the resource. Failure to fully avoid impacts will result in your project requiring a "higher level" of environmental review such as the preparation of a negative declaration or environmental impact report This could be costly and delay your project. Because of the time and cost associated with the preparation of a negative declaration or environmental impact report CAL FIRE encourages you to change your project in order to qualify for a categorical exemption, A brief explanation is required for "Yes. responses to the following questions. Responses must be supported by facts, not merely the personal opinion of the checklist preparer. All responses must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site, cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. Earlier analyses may be used where an impact has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EJR or neaative declaration. In this case, a brief discussion should identify the earlier analysis, describe the mitigations that were developed and supply copies of relevant sections/pages. A source list should be attached and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion sections where necessary. Environffi(:ntal Chcddisl, c.A..L FlRE.Urban Fores!>; Pag(: 1 org 3-14 Part 2: PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1. Project Location: (City, County, Nearest Town, etc.) Chula Vista, CA 2. Description of Project: Describe the entire project, including but not limited to size and numbers of trees, size and depth of excavations, planting site preparation (i.e., land clearing), equipment to be utilized in planting and preparing the planting site (e.g., backhoes, power augers,' heavy equipment), later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off-sile features necessary for the project's implementation. Emphasis should be placed on activities that will potentially impact the environment rather than describing project benefits. The City of Chula Vista will develop "NatureScape-ln-A-Box" kits to help participating residents create more environmentally-friendly landscaped areas. The kits will consist of five accessories - a compost bin, native planVshade tree seedlings, water-saving hose nozzle, bird feeder and water bowl - as well as instructions on designing and maintaining sustainable outdoor natural areas. Working with local garden clubs, water districts and schools, the City of Chula Vista will also host at least 6 free public workshops to educate community members about sustainable landscaping practices. The workshops will include sessions on nature-friendly plant selection, water-efficient irrigation techniques, energy-saving landscape strategies, composting, mulching and organic pesticides and fertilizers. 3. Identify the type(s) of setting(s) where your project will be located. '~:'~'~i~1~}?!~~ik~~l{l~~5It~llftl~~~&f~~~i~i~~~~i~~~{9~~1 0 Street (parkways. medians. sidewalks. etc.) 0 Undeveloped land 0 Existing landscaped city/county park 0 New or rural park 0 Existing landscaped school grounds 0 New school grounds 0 Urban trail, bike trail 0 Agricultural land 0 Public building grounds 0 Historic district, railroad right-of-way ~ Other similar urban or developed setting. D Riparian area (within 100 It of a stream, Describe setting: Residential Drooerties lake or wetland) throuohout the City of Chula Vista 0 Other similar rural, undeveloped or wildland setting. Describe setting: _ Projects confined to urban or developed settings must address questions in Checklist, Part 4. Projects that include rural, undeveloped or wildland settings must address questions in Checklist, Parts 3 and 4. Environmcntul ChccklisL CAL FIRE-Urhan For~stf'}. Page:2 or9 3-15 Part 3: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS FOR PROJECTS IN RURAL, UNDEVELOPED OR WILDLAND SETTINGS Projects, or portions of projects, planned for rural, undeveloped or wildland settings may have impacts on various resources (e.g., threatened or endangered species, cultural resources, water quality, etc.). Therefore, project applicants must conduct the following resource studies to determine if resources exist that warrant protection. Resource Studies: Conduct a Natural Oiversitv Data Base Search Contact CAL FIRE, Urban Forestry Program staff to determine how to conduct a Natural Diversity Data Base (NDDB) Search. Submit a copy of the search results along with this Environmental Checklist. If the NDDB search identifies any threatened or endangered species of animals or plants that may be present describe avoidance measures in the appropriate discussion section. Conduct an archaeoloQical records check Contact CAL FIRE, Urban Forestry Program staff to determine how to conduct an Archaeological Records Check. Submit a copy of the results along with this Environmental Checklist. If the Records Check identifies cultural resources within the project site describe measures to avoid impacts in the appropriate discussion section. Conduct an archaeolooical survey Contact CAL FIRE, Urban Forestry Program staff to determine how to conduct an archaeology survey. Submit a copy of the survey results along with this Environmental Checklist. If the archeological survey identifies cultural resources within the project site describe measures to avoid impacts in the appropriate discussion section. Based on the results of the resource studies please respond to the following questions for projects located in rural, undeveloped or wildland settings. 1. Discuss the results of the resource studies and briefly describe the archaeological and biological resources identified within your project site. Will the project: 2. Require the removal of native vegetation (trees, shrubs) prior to planting, thereby potentially impacting threatened or endangered plant or animal species or cultural resources? DYes 0 No 3. Require extensive soil disturbance, thereby potentially causing soil erosion and impacting, threatened or endangered species or cultural resources? DYes DNa Environmcntnl ChccklisL CAL FIRE-Uroan ForcslJY Page 3 or9 3-16 4. Require the use of large equipment (i.e. backhoe) thereby potentially impacting threatened or endangered species or cultural resources? DYes ONo 5. Occur within 100 feet of a perennial watercourse, riparian zone or wetland thereby potentially impacting threatened or endangered species, cultural resources or riparian values? DYes 0 No 6. Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance to non-agricultural use? DYes 0 No 7. Discuss any "Yes" responses and describe measures to avoid impacts. Environment.:!! ChccklisL CAL FIRE-Urban Forcsll;,' Page 4 of9 3-17 Part 4: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS FOR ALL PROJECTS Please answer the following questions for all projects and discuss all uYes" responses. Will the proposed project: 1. Require approval from other public agencies (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agraement (e.g., grading permits, CAL TRANS encroachment permits, right-of-way easements, etc.)) o Yes ~ No 2. Include activities that were identified in other environmental documents or analyses and support findings or no significant impact (e.g., CEQA documents, environmental surveys, general plans, studies, reports, etc.) o Yes ~ No 3. Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to general plans, specific plans, local coastal programs, or zoning ordinances)? o Yes ~ No 4. Conflict with any ordinances protecting biological resources, such as tree preservation ordinance, Habitat Conservation Plan. or other policy? o Yes ~ No 5. Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result. would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? o Yes ~ No 6. Result in trees, once mature, coming into contact with power lines? Environmental Chceklist CAL FIRE.Urban Forcsuy Page 5 of9 3-18 DYes ~No 7. Expose' people or structures to the risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? o Yes ~ No 8. Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources or substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere SUbstantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g.. the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? o Yes ~ No 9. Result in substantial adverse impacts to public services for tree pruning and maintenance? o Yes ~No 10. Substantially increase the use oi existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities or require the construction oi additional recreational iacilities resulting in significant environmental impacts? o Yes ~ No En\'ironmcnlal ChecklisL c.~ FIRE-Urban Forestry Page () of9 3-19 11.lnc1ude trees known to produce pollen/allergens/odors that are irritants or objectionable to large numbers of people? o Yes ~ No 12. Substantially damage a scenic resource or vista or degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? DYes ~No 13. Result in, once trees are mature, undesirable shading of nearby property, including residences, offices, swimming pools, solar energy collectors, recreational facilities, etc. or subject adjoining properties to excessive amounts of litter and/or debris? DYes ~No 14. Obscure public safety improvements such as streetlights, traffic signals, signs, etc.? DYes ~No If you checked "No" to all preceding questions or checked "Yes" and have provided the required Resource Studies and identified measures sufficient to protect all resource values the project may be categorically exempt from further environmental review. Sign the Certification, below, and submit this Checklist with your application to the CAL FIRE, Urban Forestry Program office. CAL FIRE will review your responses and determine whether additional environmental review is necessary prior to project approval. Environmental CheckliSl CAL FIRE-Urhan Forestry Page? of9 3-20 Part 5: CERTIFICATION I certify that I have reviewed the proposed project's description and inspected the project site(s). I have provided accurate and factual responses to the questions and have supplied accurate information when requesting database searches. In my opinion the proposed project will not have any negative impacts on the environment. S~h~ prepare-;'" 2Io/CfC\ , D.ate Environmental ChcckH:-;L CAL FIRE-Urban Forestry 3-21 Page 8 of9 Part 6: DETERMINATION DETERMINATION (To be completed by CAL FIRE, Urban Forestry Program Personnel) As a representative of CAL FIRE and as lead agency for environmental review under CEQA I have determined that an environmental impact evaluation for the proposed project has been satisfactorily completed. On the basIs of this evaluation: o o o o o o I find that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment and meets the Class 4 (Minor Alterations to Land) categorical exemption requirements. This project Is therefore exempt from. the requirement for the preparation of environmental documents. CAL FIRE will prepare a Notice of Exemption (NOE). I find that the proposed projectcouid not have a significant effect on the environment and does not meet the Class.4 categorical exemption requirements; therefore a negative deciaration will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the applicant. A mitigated negative declaration will be prepared. I find that the proposed project may have a significant effect on the environment, and an envIronmental impact report is required. I find that the proposed project may have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated impact" on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An environmental impact report is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the envIronment, because all potentIally significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or Negative DecIaratIon pursuant to applicable standards and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to an earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Signature of Authorized CAL FIRE Reviewer Date Print Name Title Environmcnuli ChCeJ.:IiSL CAL FIRE-Urbun Forestry Page 9 of9 3-22 DRAFT RESOLUTION ATTACHMENT C RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLlCA nON TO THE CALIFORi\I1A DEPARTNfENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION TO EXPAND THE CHULA VISTA NATURESCAPE PROGRANl AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY tvlAJ.JAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUJ'vfENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH IMPLEMENTING THE GRANT AGREEMENT WHEREAS, With the rapid urbanization of California's landscapes, many communities are losing the environmental and societal benefits that "green" or natural areas create; and WHEREAS, the City's NatureScape program helps foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns and water-thirsty landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally-friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife; and WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of California in cooperation with the California State Legislature has enacted Proposition 40/84, which provides funds to the State of California and its political subdivisions for urban forestry programs; and WHEREAS, the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has been delegated the responsibility for the administration of the program within the State, setting up necessary procedures governing application by local agencies and non-profit organizations under the program, and WHEREAS, said procedures established by the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection require the applicant to certify by resolution the approval of application before submission of said application to the State; and WHEREAS, the City, if awarded the grant, will enter into an agreement with the State of California to carry out an education project; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City ofChula Vista does hereby: 1. Approve the filing of an application for "PROPOSITION 40/84" education grant program funds through the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection's Urban Greening Grant Program; and 2. Certifies that it has sufficient funds to begin, operate and complete the project within 3 years; and, 3. Appoints the City Manager, or his designee, as agent of the City of Chula Vista to conduct all negotiations, execute and submit all documents including, but not limited to applications) agreements, amendments, payment requests and so on) which may be necessary fDr the completion of the aforementioned project. 3-23 ~\ft- ~ _"_-4_ "...~. ~- ATTACHMENT D em' OF CHULA VISfA CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT Statement of Compliance With Applicable Laws L _Brendan Reed_, certify that the _City ofChula Vista_ will abide by all applicable federaL state, and Jocallaws, ordinances, regulations and policies in carrying out this State bond-funded project Failure to do so will lead to cancellation of the grant award. .....:;:7 ,~l //,/?),~' (/ ..--- I _.7.,...-.. I I-----<-- ------.. Sizriature.>' - " .I. J 2,. \=<'rc:'\ Date I { Environmental Resource Mana2er Title 619-409.5889 Phone Number Printed on Recycled Paper, Naturally! :1.7:: FOURTH AVENUE i. CHULA VISTA i. CAUFORN1A 91910 t. 1~\91 ~O:,...JS32 i. FAA {61'=1,,7S.;310 3-24 5T" TE OF CAlIFORNI".D:P/,RTMENT OF FINANCE PAYEE DATA RECORD (Required when receiving payment from the Slale of California in lieu of IRS W.9) 5TD.204(Rl!v_6-2003} ~ ~ ~ PAYEE ENTITY TYPE CHECK ONE BOX ONLY tJ PAYEE RESIDENCY STATUS ~ ~ ATTACHMENT E INSTRUCTIONS; Complete all information.on this form. Sign, dale, and return to the State agency (departmenlloffice) address shown at the bottom of this page. Prompt return of this fully completed form will prevent delays when processing payments. Information provided in this form will be used by Stale agencies to prepare Information Returns (1099). See reverse side for more information and Privacy Statement. NOTE: Governmental entilies. federal. Stale. and local (includinq school districts). are nol required \0 submil this form. PAYEE'S LEGAL BUSINESS NAME (Type or Printl Ciry ofChula Vista SOLE PROPRIETOR - ENTER NAME AS SHOWN ON SSN (La5t. Firsl MJ.) E-MAIL ADDRESS MAILING ADDRESS 276 Fourth Avenue CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE Chuta Vista. CA 91910 BUSINESS ADDRESS Some CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE ENTER FEDERAL EMPLOYER IDENTiFICATION NUMBER {FEIN): NOTE: Payment will not be processed without an accompanying taxpayer I.D. number. D PARTNERSHIP D ESTATE OR TRUST CORPORATION: o MEDICAL (e,g., dentistry. psychotl'1erapy. chiropractic. etc.) o LEGAL (e.g.. attorney services) IA EXEMPT (nonprofit) o ALL OTHERS D INDIVIDUAL OR SOLE PROPRIETOR ENTER SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER: {SSN reauired bv authoritv of California Revenue and Tax Code Sectian 186461 D California resident - Qualified to do business in California or maintains a permanent place of business in California. [] California nonresident (see reverse side) _ Payments to nonresidents for services may be subject to State income tax withholding. o No services performed in California. o Copy of Franchise Tax Board waiver of State withholding attached. I hereby certify under penally of perjury that the information provided on this document is true and correct Should my residency status change, I will promptly notify the State agency below. AUTHORIZED PAYEE REPRESENTATIVE'S NAME (Type or Print) ('/+,-1...1...; (-l 15 SIGNATURE !ldt. Plea~e return completed form to: California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection Department/Office: TITLE ASST 1> 11'1- F I iJp.rJ I TELEPHONE -tv'1-38"2-0 DATE 2-1:2--01 Unit/Section: Urban Forestry Section Mailing Address: PO Box 944"46 City/StatefZip: Telephone: L-) Sacramento. CA 94244-2460 N/A Fax: (---1 N/A E-mail Address: N/A 3-25 ATTACHtvfENT B RESOLUTION NO. 2009-038 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE CALlFORo"JIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND F1RE PROTECTION TO EXPAND THE CHULA VISTA NATURESCAPE PROGRA.M AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH IMPLEMENTING THE GRANT AGREEMENT WHEREAS, with the rapid urbanization of California's landscapes, many communities are losing the environmental and societal benefits that "green" or natural areas create; and WHEREAS, the City's NatureScape program helps foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns and water-thirsty landscaping throughout the City into more environmentally-friendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff and provide habitat for wildlife; and WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of California in cooperation with the California State Legislature has enacted Proposition 40/84, which provides funds to the State of California and its political subdivisions for urban forestry programs; and WHEREAS, the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has been delegated the responsibility for the administration of the program within the State, setting up necessary procedures governing application by local agencies and non-profit organizations under the program; and WHEREAS, said procedures established by the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection require the applicant to certifY by resolution the approval of application before submission of said application to the State; and WHEREAS, the City, if awarded the grant, will enter into an agreement with the State of California to carry out an education project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Chula Vista does hereby: 1. Approve the filing of an application for "PROPOSITION 40/84" education grant program funds through the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection's Urban Greening Grant Program. 2. Certifies that it has sufficient funds to begin, operate and complete the project within 3 years. ..._-~ .....~--_.._~-_. .---, ~3--2G Resolution No. 2009-038 Page 2 3. Appoints the City Manager, or his designee, as agent of the City of Chula Vista to conduct all negotiations, execute and submit all documents including, but not limited to applications, agreements, amendments, payment requests and so on, which may be necessary for the completion of the aforementioned project. Presented by Approved as to form by ~ Michael Meacham Conservation and Environmental Services Director C........... ,. , '. '-Z /~0/ /;~~<~D &rt-C. Mi,?'1~ ;A/; PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Chula Vista, California, this 3rd day of March 2009 by the following vote: AYES: Councilmembers: Bensoussan, Castaneda, Ramirez, and Cox NAYS: Councilmembers: None ABSENT: Councilmembers: McCaJUl Chcryl c~~ ATTEST: (jPff}<~ jJ ;t;M ' Donna R. Norrls, CIVIC, City Clerk STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO ) CITY OF CHULA VISTA) I, Donna R. Noms, City Clerk of Chula Vista, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2009-038 was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council at a regular meeting of the Chula Vista City Council held on the 3rd day of March 2009. Executed this 3rd day of March 2009. L if ~JV;^~uiJ Donna R. Noms, CMC, City Clerk 3-21 RESOLUTION RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING SUBMITTAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE CALIFOR,'lIA DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION'S INNOVATIVE URBAN GREENING GRANT PROGRAM TO EXPAND THE CHULA VISTA NATURES CAPE PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH IMPLEMENTfNG THE GRANT AGREEMENT WHEREAS, with the rapid urbanization of California's landscapes, many communities are losing the environmental and societal benefits that "green" or natural areas create; and WHEREAS, the City's NatureScape program helps foster the conversion of hardscapes, turf lawns and water-thirsty landscaping throughout the City into more envirorunentally- fi-iendly "green" areas which reduce water use, conserve energy, absorb runoff, and provide habitat for wildlife; and WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of California in cooperation with the California State Legislature has enacted Proposition 40/84, which provides funds to the State of Cali fornia and its political subdivisions for urban forestry programs; and WHEREAS, the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has been delegated the responsibility for the administration of the progran1 within the State, setting up necessary procedures governing application by local agencies and non-profit organizations under the program; and WHEREAS, said procedures established by the State Department of Forestry and Fire Protection require the applicant to certify by resolution the approval of application before submission of said application to the State; and WHEREAS, the City, if awarded the grant, will enter into an agreement with the State of California to carry out an education project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Chula Vista as follows: I. That it approves the filing of an application for "PROPOSITION 40 and 84" urban forestry grant program funds through the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection's Innovative Urban Greening Grant Program. 2. That it certifies that said applicant has or will have sufficient funds to operate and maintain the project. 3-28 3. That it certitles that funds under the jurisdiction of City of Chula Vista are available to begin the project. 4. That it certifies that said applicant will expend grant funds prior to March 30, 2012. 5. That it appoints the City Manager, or his designee, as agent of the City ofChula Vista to conduct all negotiations, execute and submit all documents including, but not limited to applications, agreements, amendments, payment requests and so on, which may be necessary for the completion of the aforementioned project. Presented by Approved as to form by / / I ~a;/ Michael T. Meacham Director, Conservation and Environmental Services 3-29