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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning Comm Reports/1990/05/09 AGENDA City Planning Commission Chula Vista, California Wednesday, May 9, 1990 - 7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE INTRODUCTORY REMARKS ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Opportunity for members of the public to speak to the Planning Commission on any subject matter within the Commission's jurisdiction but not an item on today's agenda. Each speaker's presentation may not exceed five minutes. 1. PUBLIC HEARING: (a) PCZ-89-M: Request to prezone 11.7 acres located southerly of Lyndale Lane, northerly of East "H" Street, and easterly of the 1-805 freeway, to R-E-P - Cameo Development Company (b) PCS-90-06: Request to subdivide 11.7 acres known as Lyndale Hills, Chula Vista Tract 90-6, into 17 single-family detached lots and one open-space lot - Cameo Development Company 2. PUBLIC HEARING: PCZ-90-K-M: City initiated proposal to rezone certain territory, generally bounded by Main Street, Rios Avenue, the agricultural lands adjacent to the Otay River Valley, and a line 310 feet west of Date Street from its City-adopted County zone classifications to City classifications utilized throughout Chula Vista. The proposed rezonings are confined to the Broderick's Otay Acres subcommunity of Montgomery, and are governed by the Montgomery Specific Plan adopted by the Chula Vista City Council on January 12, 1988 and on September 13, 1988. Short form of Title of Proposal: Broderick's Otay Acres 3. PUBLIC HEARING: PCS-90-10: Consideration of tentative subdivision map for Tiara at Rancho del Rey, Chula Vista Tract 90-10 - Donald L. Bren Company 4. PUBLIC HEARING: PCA-90-05: Consideration of amendments to Title 19 of the Municipal Code to delete provisions which require rezonings, planned unit developments, precise plans, conditional use permits and variances to be processed within a specified number of days City initiated OTHER BUSINESS DIRECTOR'S REPORT COMMISSION COMMENTS ADJOURNMENT AT p.m. to the Study Session Meeting of May 16, 1990 at 5:00 p.m. in Conference Rooms 2 & 3 City Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 1 1. PUBLIC HEARING: (a) PCZ-89-M: Request to prezone ll.7 acres located southerly of Lyndale Lane, northerly of East 'H' Street, and easterly of the 1-805 freeway, to R-E-P - Cameo Development Company {b) PCS-90-06: Request to subdivide 11.7 acres known as Lyndale Hills, Chula Vista Tract 90-6, into 17 single family detached lots and one open space lot Cameo Development Company A. BACKGROUND This item involves a prezone and tentative map known as Lyndale Hills, Chula Vista Tract 90-6, for ll.7 acres located at the southerly terminus of Lynndale Lane, south of Lynnwood Drive, north of East 'H' Street and east of Interstate 805. The proposal is to prezone the site to R-E-P {Residential Estate/Precise Plan) and subdivide the property into 17 single family lots and one open space lot. The Environmental Review Coordinator conducted an Initial Study, IS-89-84, of potential environmental impacts associated with the implementation of the project. Based on the attached Initial Study and comments thereon, if any, the Coordinator has concluded that there would be no significant environmental impacts, and recommends adoption of the Negative Declaration issued on IS-89-84. B. RECOMMENDATION Based on the Initial Study and comments on the Initial Study and Negative Declaration, find that this project will have no environmental impacts and adopt the Negative Declaration issued on IS-89-84. Based on the findings contained in Section E of this report, adopt a motion recommending that the City Council approve the prezone and tentative subdivision map for Lynndale Hills, Chula Vista Tract 90-6, subject to the following conditions: 1. Lot 0 shall be placed in Open Space Maintenance District No. ll by application and at the expense of the developer. 2. All lots facing Lot 0 shall be be fenced and other easy access to this area shall be removed or adequately blocked according to a plan submitted for review and approval of the City Landscape Architect. 3. A naturalized revegetation program which may include temporary irrigation shall be submitted for Lot 0 subject to review and approval of the City Landscape Architect. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 2 4. No clearing of any portion of the subdivision shall occur between March 15 and August 1. 5. All mitigation necessary to avoid significant effects itemized in Section F of the Negative Declaration issued on IS-94-84 are hereby incorporated as conditions of approval. 6. The remainder parcel southwest of the curve on Lyndale Place shall be deeded to the neighboring property designated as Parcel 3, 1.17 acres. 7. The developer shall obtain permission from the owners of the four lots which presently gain access via Lynwood Place to relocate their existing driveways as indicated on the tentative map. 8. The developer shall cause to be vacated all publicly owned or offered road easements. 9. Development of the lots shall conform with the setback standards for the R-l-7 zone. 10. Each lot shall have a minimum total of 1,500 sq. ft. of usable rear and/or sideyard area with a minimum dimension of not less than l0 ft. ll. Each lot shall require separate irrigation systems for slope planting and erosion control subject to review and approval of the City Landscape Architect prior to the issuance of a grading permit. 12. A letter of permission for grading shall be obtained from SDG&E prior to any grading within or adjacent to an SDG&E easement or which would affect access thereto. 13. An access easement shall be granted by Lot 3 to the adjoining property to the north in order to accommodate the existing driveway and associated slopes serving that property. 14. Approval of a final map by the City Council will require compliance with the City's adopted threshold standards to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning. 15. The amount of any fees applicable to the project, including but not limited to PAD, DIF and RCT fees, shall be those in effect at the time they are collected. 16. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the project shall show compliance with the City's Growth Management Element and Program to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning. 17. Annexation of the site from the County of San Diego to the City of Chula Vista is required prior to approval of the Final Map. Annexation shall include all of the right-of-way necessary to construct Lynndale Place as shown on the Tentative Map. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 3 18. The owner shall obtain easements for proposed offsite sewer and storm drain facilities in Lynndale Lane prior to approval of the Final Map. Easements shall be a minimum width of six feet greater than pipe size, but not less than l0 feet. 19. The owner shall notify the City at least 60 days prior to consideration of the Final Map by the City if offsite easements cannot be obtained as required by the Conditions of Approval Numbers 18 and 31 {Only offsite right-of-way or easements affected by Section 66462.5 of the Subdivision Map Act are covered by this condition). After said notification, the owner shall: a. Pay the full cost of acquiring offsite right-of-way or easements required by the Conditions of Approval of the Tentative Map. b. Deposit with the City the estimated cost of acquiring said right-of-way or easements. Said estimate to be approved by the City Engineer. c. Have all easement and/or right-of-way documents and plats prepared and appraisals complete which are necessary to commence condemnation proceedings. The requirements of a, b and c above shall be accomplished prior to approval of the Final Map. All offsite requirements which fall under the purview of Section 66462.5 of the State Subdivision Map Act will be waived if the City does not comply with the 120 day time limitation specified in that section of the act. 20. Graded access shall be provided to all storm drain structures including inlet and outlet structures as required by the City Engineer. Paved access shall be provided to drainage structures located in the rear yard of any residential lot. 21. Grading plans shall be submitted and approved by the City Engineer prior to approval of the Final Map. An erosion and sedimentation control plan shall be required as part of the grading plans. The owner's engineer shall submit recommendations to reduce fill slope gradients to less than 2:1, if the soils engineer determines that the nature of on site soils present problems with fill slope stability and erosion. In the event that any fault zones are found during grading of the site, a field investigation shall be required (by a registered geologist) and any subsequent recommendations incorporated into the project design. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 4 22. The owner shall be responsible for the construction of public improvements of all streets shown on the Tentative Map within the subdivision. Public improvements required shall include, but not be limited to: A.C. pavement and base, concrete curb, gutter and sidewalk, driveway approaches, traffic signals, street lights, traffic signs, street trees, fire hydrants, sanitary sewers, water and drainage facilities. 23. Lot frontages on cul de sacs and knuckles shall not be less than 35 feet unless approved by the City Engineer. 24. Prior to the approval of the Final Map, the owner shall guarantee the construction of all improvements (streets, sewers, drainage, utilities, etc.) deemed necessary to provide service to the subdivision in accordance with City standards. 25. The owner shall enter into an agreement with the City wherein he holds the City harmless from any liability for erosion, siltation, or increased flow of drainage resulting from this project. 26. Prior to the approval of the Final Map, the owner shall receive letters of permission from adjacent property owners for offsite work necessary to construct driveway approaches, driveways and any other improvement necessary to provide access and utilities to those properties located adjacent to and westerly of the site impacted by the proposed subdivision development 27. The owner shall provide access on an equal basis to individual lots for all franchised cable television companies. 28. A study of the noise impacts to the project from East "H" Street and State facilities shall be performed for existing and future conditions including the proposed East "H" Street widening project. The owner shall submit said study subject to CalTrans review and acceptance prior to Final Map approval. 29. Proposed work within CalTrans' easements shall be subject to CalTrans' review and approval. The owner shall submit engineered drawings and pertinent hydraulic calculations and obtain any required permits from the State of California for said work prior to Final Map approval. 30. All streets shown on the Tentative Map within the subdivision shall be dedicated for public use. Design of said streets shall meet all City standards for public streets. 31. The proposed storm drain within Lot #14 shall be extended as necessary to outlet at the flowline of the local drainage basin to which it is tributary. Any necessary offsite easements shall be acquired and dedicated to the City. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 5 32. Driveway approach on Lynndale Lane serving Parcel 1 of Parcel Map 6001 shall be located at a minimum distance of eight feet from point of curve return. 33. The public road easement {recorded 3-6-18, Book 745, Page 284 of deeds) within the project shall be vacated prior to Final Map approval. 34. Any portion of private road easement(s) which coincide with proposed public streets shall be quit claimed prior to Final Map approval. The following are map revisions and Code requirements submitted by the Engineering Department. Map revisions: 1. Show all easements and define them correctly. 2. Add a street cross section for po?tion of Lynndale Place from Street "A" to Lot 17 to conform with the street design policy for a single loaded residential street. Toe of 2:1 slope shall be located two feet back of sidewalk. 3. Show proposed driveway for Lot 1. Code requirements: 1. All utilities within the subdivision shall be undergrounded in accordance with Municipal Code requirements. 2. The owner shall pay traffic signal participation fees currently estimated in the amount of $2,160 prior to the issuance of building permits. 3. The owner shall pay sewer connection fees currently estimated in the amount of $38,865.96 prior to the issuance of the building permits. 4. The owner shall pay development impact fees currently estimated in the amount of $76,032 prior to the issuance of building permits. 5. The owner shall comply with all applicable sections of the Chula Vista Municipal Code. Preparation of the Final Map and all plans shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act and the City of Chula Vista Subdivision Ordinances and Subdivision Manual. C. DISCUSSION The property is presently zoned County RR1 (Rural Residential/one dwelling unit per acre). Adjacent zoning and land use are as follows: City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 6 North: County RR1 Single family dwellings on one acre lots South: PC Shopping center and 1-805/East 'H' Street interchange East: PC Single family dwellings on standard City lots West: County RR1 Single family dwellings on one+ acre lots The topography of the site is moderately rolling with small ridges and intervening canyons. The high and low points of the site differ by approximately 88 feet. Access to the site is off Lynndale Lane via Lynnwood Drive and Bonita Road. A new street, Lynndale Place, would course southerly from Lynndale Lane and terminate in a cul-de-sac. A second cul-de-sac extending easterly from the new street would serve three lots. The areas of all but one residential lot (lot 4--7500 square feet) would be in excess of 10,000 square feet with an average residential lot size of 13,431 square feet for the entire tract. An open space lot of about 4.7 acres is provided, approximately four acres of which would be undisturbed. The remainder of the property would be mass graded to create the new lots and streets. The Precise Plan Modifying District is being employed to create lots smaller than the 20,000 square feet required by the R-E Zone in order to provide an open space lot of 4.7 acres. According to the biology report submitted with the Initial Study, this open space lot, in the size and shape indicated, would mitigate perceived environmental impacts resultinQ from the project. Because of the configuration of some of the proposeo lots, the applicant has chosen the R-l-7 setbacks as his development standards; i.e., 15 ft. front, 10 ft. exterior side, 10 ft./3 ft. interior sides, and 20 ft. rear. A portion of the new street, Lynndale Place, would traverse over an existing 60-foot-wide road easement which provides present access to both the subject property and four unincorporated parcels to the west and southwest. Existing driveways which serve these parcels will have to be slightly relocated to conform to City requirements. In addition, this easement has an Irrevocable Offer to Dedicate {IOD) encumbrance on it in favor of the County. This IOD is required to be vacated. Letters have been received from the Sweetwater Community Planning Group and the Sweetwater Civic Association, each recommending denial of the project because of increased traffic on Bonita Road which would be generated by this project. Each believe that access to the subdivision should be via East 'H' Street. They also object to the proposed annexation leaving a peninsula of unincorporated land in this area. (See attached correspondence.) D. ANALYSIS The proposal is consistent with the General Plan which designates the property Low Residential {0-3 D.U./ac) - the project's density is 1.45 dwelling units per acre. It also conforms to the Sweetwater Community Plan designation of Residential 3 (2 D.U./ac). City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 7 While the lot areas meet or exceed those of the City neighborhood abutting to the east, all of the parcels immediately to the north and west in the County exceed one acre. The County zoning for the aforementioned parcels as well as the subject property is RR1 (one acre minimum lot size). This discrepancy creates a lot size compatibility dilemma since this small area is a semi-rural enclave bounded on two sides by major urban arterials, a third by standard City lots backing up to the subject property at higher elevations, and the fourth by lots in excess of one acre, also at higher elevations. The factor which best justifies the lot sizes proposed is the preservation of the 4.7 acre biologically-sensitive open space lot. Without this circumstance, it could be argued that larger lots are more appropriate for this area based on the prevailing lot pattern and zoning in the immediate vicinity. As mentioned in the discussion section of this report, both the Sweetwater Community Planning Group and the Sweetwater Civic Association prefer that access to the site be gained via East 'H' Street to preclude additional traffic on Bonita Road. While staff shares this concern over Bonita Road traffic, the estimated increase of 170 ADT will not alter the level of service on Bonita Road since the contribution of traffic from the project during the peak hours is minimal, according to the City Traffic Engineer. Further, a connection could not be provided to the south since it would intersect with the transition lane from westbound East 'H' to northbound 1-805. Finally, staff from the Local Agency Formation Commission -- the regional agency responsible for reviewing, coordinating and approving all annexations -- reports that the annexation would not adversely impact the provision of public services to the "peninsula" of unincorporated land between the project area and the 1-805 Freeway. Also, they are resigned to the fact that Bonita will likely annex in a piecemeal rather than comprehensive fashion. E. FINDINGS Pursuant to Section 66473.6 of the Subdivision Map Act, the tentative subdivision map for Lynndale Hills, Chula Vista Tract 90-6, is found to be in conformance with the various elements of the City's General Plan based on the following: 1. The site is physically suitable for residential development and the proposal conforms to all standards established by the City for such projects. 2. The design of the subdivision will not affect the existing improvements -- streets, sewers, etc. -- which have been designed to avoid any serious problems. 3. The project is in substantial conformance with the Chula Vista General Plan Elements as follows: City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 8 a. Land Use - The project is consistent with the General Plan which designates the property Chula Vista Low Residential (0-3 D.U./ac) and County Residential 3 (2 D.U./ac). b. Circulation - The lots will be served by public streets conforming to City standards. c. Housing - The project will provide a detached housing type consistent with surrounding development. d. Conservation and Open Space - The project will provide 4.7 acres of open space to mitigate impacts to sensitive plant and animal species. e. Park and Recreation - The project will result in the dedication of 4.7 acres of permanent open space and shall be responsible for the payment of PAD fees. f. Seismic Safety - The closest identified fault in the area is the La Nacion Fault located one mile to the east. g. Safety - The site will be within threshold response times for fire and police services. h. Noise - The units will be required to meet the standards of the UBC with regard to acceptable interior noise levels. i.. Scenic Highway The project site is depressed below the East 'H' Street Scenic Highway. j. Bicycle Routes The streets within the project are not designated bike routes but will accommodate bicycle travel. k. Public Buildings - No public buildings are planned for the site. The project shall be subject to RCT and DIF fees. 4. Pursuant to Section 66412.2 of the Subdivision Map Act, the Commission certifies that it has considered the effect of this approval on the housing needs of the region and has balanced those needs against the public service needs of the residents of the City and the available fiscal and environmental resources. 5. The configuration, orientation and topography of the site does not allow for the optimum siting of lots for passive or natural heating and cooling opportunities. WPC 7646P I/4. -SEC 97' .~! ,e' ' 'SHEET I OF 1 SHEET ---~ ~.~/ ' 55__/[/,'-~ LEGAL DESCRIPTION VICINITYMAP t ! ~:' "ASSESSORS PARCEL "O. ~' TAX RATE AREA ~t . j, ACREAGE '., b., GRADING ~;~TE PREPARED NO. oF LOTS '~ENERAL NOTES OWNERS . ~~~ :SOBDIViD~ & AGENT, 'UT'ILITIE~ z ~ ~'~ ~ ommunit¥ Planning Oroup APR I 6 1990 April 10, 1990 City Of Chula Vista, Planning Dept. 276 Fourth Ave. Chula Vista, CA. 92010 Att: Mr. Steve Griffin, Associate Planner Sub: Lynndale Hills Subdivision T.M 4706 Ref: Letter S. Griffin/Sweetwater Community Planning Group dated 3/21/90 Gentlemen: We are in receipt of reference letter and have addressed this issue at our Tuesday April 3rd. regular meeting. Mr. Martin Kolkey, President Cameo Development presented the plans and answered our questions. The Sweetwater Community Planning Group unanimously opposes the development as currently planned for two specific reasons: First: Egress and access is via Bonita Rd. leading to the development via Lynnwood Dr. Bonita Rd. in general and specifically at that intersection is already excessive and highly congested. Egress and access should be via "H" St. which would also eliminate the need for community service vehicles to access the property via county roadways. Second: Annexation as planned would violate the LAFCO charter as it would result in a peninsula or finger of land bordered to the east by this development, the south by Chula Vista "H" st. and the west by Interstate 805. Respectfully, C John Hammond, Cha±rperson Sweetwater Community Planning Group JH/rrw c c: LAFCO P.O. Box 460, Bonita, California 92002-0460 April 10, 1990 City Of Chula Vista, Planning Dept. 276 Fourth Ave. Chula Vista, CA. 92010 Att: Mr. Steve Griffin, Associate Planner Sub: Lynndale Hills Subdivision T.M 4706 Ref: Letter S. Griffin/Sweetwater Community Planning Group dated 3/21/90 Gentlemen: We are in receipt of reference letter and have addressed this issue at our Wednesday April 4th. regular meeting. The Sweetwater Valley Civic Association unanimously opposes the development as currently planned for two specific reasons: First: Egress and access is via Bonita Rd. leading to the development via Lynnwood Dr. Bonita Road in general and specifically at that intersection is already excessive and highly congested. Egress and access should be via "H" street which would eliminate the need for community service vehicles to access the property via county roadways. Second: Annexation as planned would violate the LAFCO charter as it would result in a peninsula or finger of land bordered to the east by this development, the south by Chula Vista ~'H" street and the west by Interstate 805. Respectfully, Tom Pocklington, Vice-President Sweetwater Valley Civic Association TP/rrw cc:LAFCO CITY OF CHULA VISTA DISCLOSURE STATEMENT IAPPLICANT'S STATEMENT OF DISCLOSURE OF CERTAIN OWNERSIIIP INTERESTS ON ALL APPLICATIONS IWIllCll WILL REQUIRE DISCRETIONARY ACTION ON TIlE PART OF TIlE CITY COUNCIL, PLANNING ICOMMISSION AND ALL OTHER OFFICIAL BODIES. ' The following information must be disclosed: " l. List tile hames of all persons having a financial interest in the application. CAMEO DEVELOPMENT tO., A CA. Corp. List the names of all persons having any ownership interest inthe property'involveU. John L. Knorr & Frances I. Knorr,. Delbert L. Huqhes & Janice V. Huqh~ Gately Sorens~n Co.t A California CorporatiQn, Robert R. Crowther & Juanita Crowther, William L. Shipley 2. If any person identified pursuant t6 il) above is a corporation or partnership, list the names of all individuals owning more than )0% of the shares in the cor?oration or owning any partnership interest in the partnership. Aaron ti. Kolkey Mart±n R. Kolkey 3. If any persgn 'identified pursuant to (1). above is a non-profit organization or a trust, lisb the names of any person .serving as director 'of the non-profit organization or as trustee or beneficiary or trustor of the trust. .N/x 4. Have you had more than $250 worth of business transacted with any member of City staff, Boards, Commissions, Committees and Council within the past twelve months?' Yes__ No X If yes, please .indicate person(s) I Person is defined as: "Any individual, firm, copartnership, joint venture, associ.ation, soc-'6-E'~'F club, fraternal organization, corporation, estate, trust, receiver, syndicate, this and any other county, city and county, city, municipality, district or other political subdivision, or any other group or combination acting as a unit." ._~. I.o ~'~ ~".'~, . December 26,1989 TO: City of Chula Vista 476 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista, Ca 92010 Cameo Development Co., a California Corporation is hereby authorized to act as subdivider for the processing of the Lynndale Hills Tentative Subdivision Hap, Chula Vista Tract No. 90-6 (APN 592-100-30,49). OWNERs APH §92-100-30 ~anc~e ~ K~orr APN 592-100-49 Delbert L, Hughes Janice Y Hughes ' Robert R. Crowther Juanita Crowther Gately Sorensen Company a California Corporation Signing of this authorization does not obligate the sellers to any monetary responsibility to said subdivider or subdivision map #90-6 (APN 592-100-30-49) or does not constitute any change in original escrow, dated February 24th. 1989. William b. Shipley December 26,1989 JA~ 1 1 1990 TO: City of Chula Vista 476 Fourth Avenue Chula Vieta, Ca 92010 Cameo Development Co., a California Corporation is hereby authori2ed to act as subdivider for the processing of the Lynndale Hills Tentative Subdivision Map, Chula Vista Tract No. 90-6 (APN 592-100-30,49), OWNERS APN §92-100-$0 John L. Knorr Francis I, Knorr APN 592-100-49 -' .... , d , :.7,-7~-~'--~-~-~,/~L_'''~'-'---~ Delbert L.' Hughes R6~e~C R, C~ow%her Suanita Crowth.r OatelF So~ensen Company Si~nin~ of this authorization floes not a California Oo~poration obligate the sellers to any monetary ~:>~,~-'~' a~. responsibility to said subdivider or subdivision map ~90-6 (APN 592-100-30,~9) .>Y~/-:/- : %~: / ' ~ does not constitute any change in -~'" -- · -~ .......... ~ ' / orgional escrow, dated FeY 2~th 1989. William L, Shipley negative declaration PROJECT NAME: Lynndale Hills PROJECT LOCATION: Lynndale Lane, northeast of the intersection of Interstate 805 and H Street in the unincorporated area of San Diego County and bounded on the east by the Chula Vista City limit PROJECT APPLICANT: Cameo Development Company 5125 Convoy Street, Suite 301 San Diego, California 92111 CASE NO: IS-89-84 DATE: April 9, 1990 A. Project Se{tin~ The 11.7 acre project site is located on the south side of the Sweetwater River Valley, northeast of the intersection of Interstate 805 and H Street in the unincorporated area ~of San Diego County. The topography is rolling and consists of several ridges with intervening canyons. Elevations range from 158 feet on the east to 70 feet above mean sea level on the western edge of the site. The project is situated in the Coastal Plain of the Peninsular Ranges geographic province the underlying bedrock is part of the Pliocene age San Diego Formation which is made up of near-shore marine sediments with sandstone and cobble layers. This material is friable, relatively incompressible and has very low expansion potential. This site is within the La Nacion Fault Zone which is classified as potentially active. The most significant event likely to affect this site would be an earthquake on the Rose Canyon Fault located l0 miles northwest of project. Soils on this site are Salinas Clay, found on level terrain, and Linne Clay Loam on slopes. The thickness ranges from 1 to 5 feet. This topsoil is considered potentially compressible and expansive. On-site vegetation is a mixture of Diegan Sage Scrub, Riparian, and Disturbed/Exotic species. Almost the entire site is covered by Diegan Sage Scrub with a relatively small patch of riparian habitat in the northern canyon and a highly disturbed area to the south. The site is currently vacant with the exception of one existing house. Current land use on adjacent properties includes a arterial to the south, single-family residences to the north, and west, and a planned community of single family homes to the east. city of chula vista planning department CI~YOF · environmental review section CHUL~k Vl~-rA -2- B. Project Description The proposed project consists of the prezoning, annexation of the 11.7 acre property to the City of Chula Vista detachment from the Bonita/Sunnyside Fire Protection District and subdivision of the parcel into 17 separate residential lots. A 4.7 acre biological open space will be preserved in the northwest corner of the project. Access to existing Lynndale Lane will be in the northwest corner of project. Seven and one-half (7.5) acres of the site would be graded and 55,000 cubic yards of fill will be placed. The maximum cut will be 48 feet in height, but the average will be only 15 feet. Average fill depth will be 15 feet and the maximum will be 32 feet. New streets, extension of gas, water, sewer and electric will be required in addition to grading. Required approvals for the project includes: Annexation, Prezonlng, Tentative Subdivision Map, and Grading Permit. C. Compatibility with Zoning and Plans Current zoning for the property is R-R-1 (County Rural Residential). The project does not conform to the current zoning as it is proposed for prezoning to R-E-P. The General Plan land use designation for the site is Low-density Residential. The project is compatible with the General Plan Land Use Diagram. D. Compliance with the Threshold/Standards Policy 1. Fire/EMS The proposed Lynndale Hills development is within 2.5 miles of the nearest fire station located at Bonita Road and Willow Street. Response times for emergency calls would be 7 minutes, equal to the 7 minute Threshold Standard. The Fire Department is requiring the installation of fire hydrants at 500 foot intervals within the project. 2. Police The City of Chula Vista Police Department was contacted by the Planning Department and indicated that they had no comment on the project. Therefore, service can be provided for the proposed development without affecting the Police Service Threshold Standard. 3. Traffic Access to the proposed project would be from Bonita Road via Lynndale Lane. The project would impact area streets with the addition of approximately 170 average daily trips (ADT). The ADT -3- on Bonita Road is expected to increase from 44,550 to 44,720. Existing Level of Service ILOS) E will not change. The project is not expected to affect the City's Traffic Threshold Standards based on the Engineering Department's review and the project's relatively small impact. The City Engineer is requiring street improvements to existing streets. A traffic study is currently underway to restripe Bonita Road to provide an extra westbound lane. Full street improvement and widening are required in Lynndale Lane. 4. Parks/Recreation There are 6 acres of developed parkland within the Park Service District of this project. The current requirement for the District is 5.6 acres. The project would require 0.15 acres based on the Parks and Recreation Threshold Standard and, therefore, would have no effect. Developer fees will be paid to the City of Chula Vista Parks and Recreation Department. 5. Drainage According to the City Engineering Department, the proposed project does not lie within a floodplain and will not be subject to any existing flood hazards. There are no existing on-site drainage facilities. Existing off-site drainage facilities include an 18" and 24" storm drain pipes that discharge onto the property along the easterly boundary, and a double 84" storm drain along the westerly boundary, parallel the 1-805 right-of-way, flowing north under Bonita Road and into the Sweetwater River. To ensure conformance with the Drainage Threshold Standards, the construction of a drainage system will be required, designed such that storm water flows and volumes do not exceed City Engineering Standards. 6. Sewer The desired sewer service connection for the project would be through a 15-inch sewer line adjacent to westerly line of the project flowing north to 18-inch sewer line in Bonita Road. Sewage generated by the proposed project is expected to be 4,505 gallons of liquid waste per day, as well as 446 pounds of solid waste per day. The Engineering Department has indicated that flows and volumes would not exceed City Engineering Standards and sewer service is adequate for the design of the proposed project. This, conforms with the Sewer Threshold Standards. -4- 7. Water The City's Water Service Threshold Standard requires that the applicant obtain and submit to the City a water service availability letter. The S~eetwater Authority was contacted in regard to this matter and indicated that they would issue a service letter upon favorable review of the project. The applicant is currently arranging with the authority to review the project. 8. Schools The proposed subdivision lies within the Chula Vista City School District, which serves children from Kindergarten through Grade 6. The project will also be served by the Sweetwater Union High School District. Developer fees will be paid to both these districts. A developer fee of $0.69/sq.ft. of assessable area is currently being charged by the Chula Vista City School District. The Sweetwater Union High School District has not indicated the required fee amount. The projected impacts on area schools are: Current Current Generated School Attendance Capacity from Project Elementary Allen 632 662 8 Jr. High Bonita Vista* 1682 1494 3 Sr. High Bonita Vista. 1871 2052 4 *Students could attend Hilltop Jr./Sr. High schools. Attendance Capacity Hilltop Jr. High 1,482 1,506 Hilltop Sr. High 1,532 1,508 The City's Threshold Standards for Schools are reviewed annually and are not applicable to specific individual projects. E. Identification of Environmental Effects Archaeology - Brian F. Smith and Associates was retained to conduct an archaeological investigation of the proposed project site. The archaeological investigation report is included as Attachment B. The study included a survey of the site and an evaluation of any potential prehistoric site identified during the survey. The investigation of the site demonstrated that the site was not significant and involved no further research potential. -5- Biology - Pacific Southwest Biological Services was retained to conduct a biological assessment of the proposed project site. The biological assessment report is included as Attachment C. The biological survey of the proposed project site revealed the following sensitive plant species: Snake Cholla (Opuntia ~), Coast Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus viridescens), San Diego Sunflower Viguiera laciniata), and Ashy-footed Clubmoss (Selaginella cinerascens)~tive zoological resources also found on-site include five San Diego Cactus Wrens (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) and l0 California Gnatcatchers (Polioptila californica) occupying the site. The Orange-throated (Cnemidophorus hyperythrus), a sensitive lizard of the region, is also well established on-site. Geotechnical A geotechnical investigation of the project site was conducted by IGC Incorporated. The geotechnical investigation report is included as Attachment D. The investigation did not identify any geotechnical conditions that would preclude the development of the site as planned. The major geotechnical constraints on the site are the presence of compressible alluvial soils and relatively cohesionless soils that may affect surface slope stability and erosion. Noise DUKES Noise Control was retained to conduct an acoustical analysis to assess the existing and future noise impacts of the proposed project. The acoustical analysis report is included as Attachment E. The major noise sources affecting the project site are 1-805 and H Street. The calculated CNEL (Community Noise Equivalent Level) caused by traffic varies on the site from 46.8 to 64.9 dB under current traffic conditions and will increase to between 44.1 and 65.0 dB under future conditions. F. Mitigation necessary to avoid significant effects Biology - Recommendations to reduce biological impacts are as follows: All Ferocactus, Man~nillaria, Opuntia parryi var. serpintina, ~ littoralis cactus occurring within the areas to be ed should be transplanted to the disturbed portions of the biological open space and along the fringes of this area which face the development; All disturbed areas within the open space should be revegetated with native scrub vegetation including: Isocoma veneta, Artemisia californica, Eriogonum fasciculatum, Baccharis sarothroides, Malosma laurin~ra laciniata, Rhus ln~lia, Simmondsia chinesis; -6- All lots facing the open space lot should be fenced, and other easy accesses to this area should be removed or adequately blocked; and Clearing activities on the site should be restricted from occurring within 100 feet of any active California Gnatcatcher or Cactus Wren nests, or all clearing should be restricted from occurring between March 15, and August 1 (see Attachment C). Geotechnical - To ensure that the major geotechnical constraints of the site do not result in any significant impacts, grading should be performed under the observation and testing of the geotechnical consultant and in accordance with the requirements of the City of Chula Vista, the Uniform Building Code, and the recommendations contained within the §eotechnical investigation report (see Attachment D). G. Findings of Insignificant Impact Archaeology The proposed development will impact the prehistoric site, however, the impacts are not considered significant because the site lacks research potential and sensitive deposits (see Attachment B). Noise No significant noise impacts will result from the proposed project. The proposed project is consistent with the City of Chula Vista General Plan Noise Element. Neither the existing nor the future CNEL at the site will exceed 65 dB (see Attachment E). H. Consultation 1. Individuals and Organizations City of Chula Vista: Roger Daoust, Senior Civil Engineer Jim Dyar, Fire Marshall Hal Rosenberg, Traffic Engineer Roberto Solorzano, Engineer Sweetwater Authority: Hector Martinez, Assistant Engineer Applicant's Agent: Richard Lott, Xinos Enterprises Inc. Mark V. Tegio, A.D. Hinshaw Associates 2. Documents City of Chula Vista: Lynndale Hills Initial Study Threshold Standards General Plan Municipal Code Chula Vista City School District: Letter to Chula Vista Planning Department dated January 29, 1990. -7- Sweetwater Union High School District: Letter to Chula Vista Planning Department dated March 19, 19gO. DUKES Noise Control: Lynndale Hills Prezone No. 77-205440, Environmental Initial Study No. 89-100 IGC Incorporated: Geotechnical investigation, Lynndale Hills Proposed Residential Subdivision, Chula Vista, California Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc.: Report of a Biological Assessment of the Lynndale Hills Property Brian F. Smith and Associates: The Archaeological Investigation for The Lynndale Hills Prezone/Initial Study 3. Responses to Public Comments ( ) No comments ( ) Comments did not address completeness of document ( ) Comments and Responses attached. This determination that the project will not have any significant environmental impact is based on the attached Initial Study (Attachment A) any comments on the Initial Study and any comments on the Negative Declaration. Further information regarding the environmental review of the project is available from the Chula Vista Planning Department, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 92010. ENVIROJ~ENTAL REVIEW COORDINATOR WPC 7484P -~' ~ FOR OFFICE USE Fee INITIAL STUDY Receipt No.___~ Date Rec'd City of Chula Vista Accepted by ~ .(_~ · Application Form Project A. BACKGROUND 1. PROJECT TITLE LYNNDALE HILLS 2. PROJECT LOCATION (Street address or dJscription) LYNNDALE LANE Assessors Book, Page & Parcel No. 59.2-10.0-30~ 592-100-49 3. BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION 4. Name of Applicant CAMEO DEk4~LOPP1ENT COMPANY Address 5125 CONvoY STREET~ SUITE 301 Phone (619) 292-4330 City SAN DIEGO State CALIFORNIA Zip 92111 5. Name of Preparer/Agent XINOS ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED Address 9619 CHESAPEAKE DRIVE~ SUITE 102 Phone (619) 278-5)10 City SAN DIEGO State CALIFORNIA Zip 92123 Relation to Applicant CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSULTANT 6. Indicate all permits or approvals and enclosures or documents required by the Environmental Review Coordinator. a. Permits or approvals required: General Plan Revision Design Review Committee Public Project x Rezoning/Prezoning X Tentative Subd. Map x Annexation Precise Plan x Grading Permit Design Review Board Specific Plan Tentative Parcel Map -- Redevelopment Agency Cond. Use Permit Site Plan & Arch. Review-- Variance Other b. Enclosures or documents (as required by the Environmental Review Coordinator). __ Location Map __Arch. Elevations __ Eng. Geology Report __Grading Plan __Landscape Plans __Hydrological Study __Site Plan x Photos of Site & )(' Biological Study __Parcel Map ,~etting ~Archaeological Survey Precise Plan ~l/Tentative Subd. Map ~ Noise Assessment Specific Plan " Improvement Plans Traffic Impact Report Other Agency Permit or ,~7-Soils Report Approvals Required (Rev, 12/82) - 2 - B. PROPOSED PROJECT 1. Land Area: sq. footage 6f~c~f,~or acreage ~ /[.~7 If land area to be dedicated, state acreage and purpose. /.~ .~ACRES FOR PUBLIC STREET PURPOSES 2. Complete this section if project is .r~sidential. a. Type development: Single family x Two family Multi family. Townhouse Condominium b. Number of structures and heights -~-SINGLE FAMILY HOhl~S EQUAL TO 35' c. Number of Units: 1 bedroom 2 bedrooms 3 bedrooms 10 4 bedrooms-7 ~ Total units d. Gross density {DU/total acres~/11.9 ACRES = ~ DU/AC e. Net density (DU/total acres m~us any dedication~DU/9.g~AC = ~ DU/A( f. Estimated project populationlG~4~l/~ PEOPLE g. Estimated sale or rental price range $250,000 - $~50,000 h. Square footage of floor area{s) 2200 - 2800 SQ. FT. i. Percent of lot coverage by buildings or structures ~ 20% j. Number of on-site parking spaces to be provided 2 & ) CAR GARAGES k. Percent of site in road and paved surface ~ 3. Complete this section if project is commercial or industrial. a. Type(s) of land use b. Floor area Height of structure{s) c. Type of construction used in the structure d. Describe major access points to the structures and the orientation to adjoining properties and streets e. Number of on-site parking spaces provided f. Estimated number of employees per shift , Number of shifts Total g. Estimated number of customers (per day) and basis of estimate - 3 - h. Estimated range of service area and basis of estimate i. Type/extent of operations not in enclosed buildings j. Hours of operation k. Type of exterior lighting 4. If project is other than residential, commercial or industrial complete this section. a. Type of project b. Type of facilities provided c. Square feet of enclosed structures d. Height of structure(s) - maximum e. Ultimate occupancy load of project f. Number of on-site parking spaces to be provided g. Square feet of road and paved surfaces C. PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS 1. If the project could result in the direct emission of any air pollutants, (hydrocarbons, sulfur, dust, etc.) identify them. N/A 2. Is any type of grading or excavation of the property anticipated YFS {If yes, complete the following:) a. Excluding trenches to be backfilled, how many cubic yards of earth will be excavated? 120,000 Cu.Yd. (Estimate) b. How many cubic yards of fill will be placed? 120,000 Cu.Yd. (Estimate) C. How much area (sq. ft. or acres) will be graded? -~I:C-ACRES d. What will be the Maxi mum depth of cuticleS' ~Y~f~. ~) Average depth of cut ~: ~' Maximum depth of fill LS?-~ Y$~Y Average depth of fill 1~" ~ - 4 - 3. Describe all ener~cv consuming devices which are part of the proposed project and the type of energy used (air conditioning, electrical appliance, heating equipment, etc.) GAS APPLIANCES, GAS FORCED AIR HEATING_~AIR CONDITIONING OPTIONAL 4. Indicate the amount of natural open space that is part of the project {sq. ft. or acres) 5. If the project will result in any employment opportunities describe the nature and type of these jobs. ALL LAND DEVELOPMENT RELATED OCCUPATIONS 6. Will highly flammable or potentially explosive materials or substances be used or stored within the project site? NO 7. How many estimated automobile trips, per day, will be generated by the project?_.-!~TRiPS/DAY /7o 8. Describe (if any) off-site improvements necessary to implement the project, and their points of access or connection to the project site. Improvements include but not limited to the following: new streets; street widening; extension of gas, electric, and sewer lines; cut and fill slopes; and pedestrian and bicycle facilities. NEW STREETSt EXTENSION OF GAS~ WATER~ SEWER ~¢~D ELECTRICr GRADING TO CREATE BUILDABLE SITES D. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 1. Geology Has a geology study been conducted on the property~ NO (If yes, please attach) ' Has a Soils Report on the project site been made? NO IIf yes, please attach) 2. IJydrolo§y Are any of the following features present on or adjacent to the site? (If yes, please explain in detail.) a.Is there any surface evidence of a shallow ground water table? NO b. Are there any watercourses or drainage improvements on or adjacent to the site? A CONCRETE DRAINAGE DITCH IS LOC~ATED ALONG THE EASTERLY PROPERTY LINE A[x]ACENT TO THE PROPERTY. CONCRETE DP~AINAGE D[T£HES ARE ALSO LOCqTED WITHIN THE 1-805 RIGHT OF WAY ADJACENT TO THE PROPERTY,, 4N - 5 - c. Does runoff from the project site drain directly into or toward a domestic water supply, lake, reservoir or bay? NO d. Could drainage from the site cause erosion or siltation to adjacent areas? NO e. Describe all drainage facilities to be provided and their location. DRAINAGE SWALES WHERE ~EEDED, CURB AND GUI-FER . ~-~ 3. Noise a. Will there be any noise generated from the proposed project site or from points of access which may impact the surrounding or adjacent land uses? NO 4. Biology a. Is the project site in a natural or partially natural'state? YES b. Indicate type, size and quantity of trees on the site and which lif any) will be removed by the project, so~ FRUIT TREES AROUND THE EXISTING HOUSE, A PALM TREE, PEPPER TREE. 5. Past Use of the Land a. Are there any known historical resources located on or near the project site? NO b. Have there been any hazardous materials disposed of or stored on or near the project site? NO 6. Current Land Use a. Describe all structures and land uses currently existing on the project site. VACANT LAND WITH 1 EXISTING HOUSE - 6 - b. Describe all structures and land uses currently existing on adjacent property. North ONE SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE, RR1 South HIGHWAY~ S-94 East SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCES~ P.C, (PLY~qNED COMML~ITY) West SINGLE FAMIL~ RESIDENCES~ RR1 7. Social a. Are there any residents on site? (If so, hou many?) 1 SINGLE FAMILY b. Are there an~ cuPrent employment opportunities on site? (If so~ how many and what type?) NO Please provide any other information which could expedite the evaluation of the proposed project. - 7 - E. CERTIFICATION or Consultant or Agent* HEREBY AFFIRM, that to the best of my belief, the statements and information herein contained are in all respects true and correct and that all known information concerning the project and its setting have been included in Parts B, C and D of this application for an Initial Study of possible environmental impact and any enclosures for attachments thereto. *If acting for a corporation, include capacity and company name. -8- Case No. /5-~-8~/ CITY DATA F. PLANNING DEPARTMENT 1. Current Zoning on site: R-~-[ (~0'~ ~ North East West ~ -~-I ~' ~': _ Does th~ project conform to th~ current zoning? ~ _ ~ 2. General Plan ]and use South ~ ~, - East West - Is the project compatible with the General Plan Land Use Diagram? Is the project area designated for conservation or open space or adjacent to an area so designated? Is the project located adjacent to any scenic routes?o~e~t/~/'~o (If yes, describe the design techniques being used to pr r enhance the scenic quality of Chula Vista.) How many acres of developed parkland are within the Park Service District of this project as shown in the Parks and Recreation Element of the General Plan? ~ ~ What is the current park acreage requirements in the Park Service District? ~ ~ How many acres of parkland are necessary to serve the proposed project? (2AC/lO00 pop. ) t /~-,,~c ~ ~-c /~,c) Does the project site provide access to or have the potential to provide access to any mineral resource? (If so, describe in detail.) -9- 3. School s If the proposed project is residential, please complete the following: Current Current Students Generated School Attendance Capacity From Project Elementary ~ Jr. High ~:~,'~¢ I~,~-.- 1~ ,_~ Sr. High b~!~ ~//~ F-,,.'~ 4. Aesthetics Does the project contain features which could be construed to be at a variance from nearby features due to bulk, form, texture or color? (If so, please describe.) 5. Energy Consumption Provide the estimated consumption by the proposed project of the following sources: Electricity (per year) /o Natural Gas (per year) Water (per day) 6. Remarks: Director o~/Planning or Representative. Date Case No. \S ~;c~-~c~ G. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT 1. Drainage a. Is the project site within a flood plain? b. Will the project be subject to any existing flooding hazards? c. Will the project create any flooding hazards? d. What is the location and description of existing on-site drainage facilities? ~ ~--~%ll~6 b~_~.~ ~ ~C~LtT~ e. Are they adequate to serve the project? ~ ~-s~ f. What is the location and description of existing off-site drainage facilities? I ~'~ ~ ~" ~To~ o~ e~e~ ~. Are they adequate to serve the pPoject? 2. Transportation a. ~hat Poads provide pPi~aPy access to the pPoject? b. ~ha~ ~s ~he estimated number o¢ one-way auto ~r~ps ~o be generated by ~he pro~ec~ (per day)? c. What is the ADT and estimated level of service before and after project completion? ' "~ After d. Are the primary access roads adequate to serve the progect? e. ~ill it be necessary that additional dedication, widening and/or improvement be made to existing streets? If so, specify, the general nature of the 'necessary actions. Case No. 3. Geology a. Is the project site subject to: Known or suspected fault hazards? Liquefaction? Landslide or slippage? b. Is an engineering geolo~ty report necessary to evaluate the project? 4. Soils a. Are there any anticipated adverse soil conditions on the project site? b. If yes, what are these adverse soil conditions? c. Is a soils report necessary? ~-~ 5. Land Form a. What is the average natural slope of the site? ~--& b. What is the maximum natural slope of the site? 6. Noise Are there any traffic-related noise levels impacting the site that are significant enough to justify that a noise analysis be required Case No. 7. Air Quality If there is any direct or indirect automobile usage associated with this project, complete the.following: Total Vehicle Trips Emission Grams of (per day) Factor Pollution CO r x 118.3 = Hydrocarbons I X 18.3 : NOx (NO2) \-/0 X 20.0 = Particulates X 1.5 : Sulfur X .78 : 8. Waste Generation How much solid and liquid (sewage) waste will be generatedby the proposed project per day? Solid ~r-~-.FG ~, Liquid z~-~"O~" ~N~_/~ What is the location and size of existing sewer lines on or adjacent to the site? I~'~ ~tua~ ~ ~¢~ ~ ~6t~L~ L~e Are they adequate to serve the proposed project? 9. Public Facilities/Resources Impact If the project could exceed the threshold of having any possible significant impact on the environment, please identify the public facilities/resources and/or hazards and describe the adverse impact. (Include any potential to attain and/or exceed the capacity of any public street, sewer, culvert, et~. serving the project area.) Remarks/necessary mitigation measures City ~ng~,~eer or ~epresentati~e Date -13- Case No. ~-~ m: ?- o~ H. FIRE DEPARTMENT 1. What is the distance to the nearest fire station and what is the Fire Department's estimated reaction time? Q.~ ~/:~ 7 ~ ,'~-~ 2. Will the Fire Department be able to provide an adequate level of fire protection for the proposed facility without an increase in equipment or personnel? ~ / -13(a)- Case No. ~5-~-o°~ H-1. PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 1. Are existing neighborhood and community parks near the project adequate to serve the population increase resulting from this project? Neighborhood ~')0 Community parks /~Z~ ~c~-~-- 2. If not, are parkland dedications or other mitigation proposed as part of the project adequate to serve the population increase? Neighborhood ~O~_~ ./9~]~/.~ . Community parks I ~ ' 3. Does this project exceed the Parks and Recreation Thresholds established by City Council policies? Parks and Recreation Director or Date Representative PSBS #738 REPORT OF A BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE LYNNDALE HILLS PROPERTY ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NOS. 59:l-100-30 & 49 Prepared for Cameo Development Company 512~ Convoy #301 San Diego, CA 92111 (619) 2924330 Prepared by Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc. P.O. Box 985 National City, CA 92050 Phone: 619/477-5333 FAX: 619/477-1245 21 August 1989 (Revised 8 March 1990) ~e President PSBS #738 TABLE OF CONTENTS SUMMARY .................................................................... 1 INTRODU(:rlON ................................................................ 1 METHODS ..................................................................... 1 LOCATION ..................................................................... 2 GENERAL PHYSIOGRAPHY ...................................................... 2 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ....................................................... 2 VEGETATION .............................................................. 2 Disturbed/Ex~fic ..................................... ... ..... .. ..... . 6 FLORA ................................................................... 6 ZOOLOGICAL RESOURCES GENERAL WILDLIFE HABITAT BIRDS SENSrI'IVE BIOLOGICAL P,~.SOURCES SENSITIVI~ VI~GETATION ...................................................... 8 SENsrrwE PLANTS OCCUmUNG ON-SIT~ ......................................... 8 San Die o Barrel Cactus ............................................... 8 Snake Cholla ........................................................ 8 Ashy Soike Moss ..................................................... 9 San Diego Vi~uiera~ ................................................... 9 SP~SlTIVE PLANTS OCCURRING IN THE REGION BUT NOT OBSERVED ON-SITE ............ 9 Otav Tar~veed ....................................................... 9 Cleveland's Golden Stars .............................................. I0 Greene's Ground CherT .............................................. 10 California Spinebush ................................................. 10 San Diego Marsh-Elder ............................................... 10 SENSITIVE VERTEBRATES .................................................... 11 Oran¢,e-throated Whlptail ............................................. 11 Coastal Cactus Wren ................................................. 12 California Gnatcatcher EXPECTED BIOLOGICAL IMPACTS ............................................... 13 RECOMMENDATIONS TO REDUCE BIOLOGICAL IMPACTS ........................... 13 LITERATURE CITED o~/os/~o o PSBS #738 FIGURES AND TABLES F~GURE 1. V~c~NrrY MAP ............................ 3 FIGURE 2. VEGETATION AND SFaNSITIVE RESOURCES Ma~P .............................. 4 TABLE 1. FLORAL CHECKLIST .................................................. 16 TABLE 2. ANIMALS OBSERVED OR DETEcteD ..................................... 19 o3/o8/~o ii PSBS #738 SUMMARY A biological survey of the 11.9 acre Lynndale Hills property revealed five San Diego Cactus Wrens and 10 California Gnatcatchers occupying the site; extraordinary numbers (perhaps unmatched in San Diego County) in such a limited area for these very sensitive bird species. Also found on site are the following sensitive plant species: Snake Cholla, Coast Barrel Cactus, San Diego Sunflower, and Ashy-footed Clubmoss. The Orange Throated Whiptail, a sensitive lizard of the region, is well established on site. Given the rarity of the San Diego Cactus Wren (commensurate with the Least Bell's Vireo and California Least Tern in rarity and more endangered according to a local consensus of professional biologists and ornithologists) and the unusually high incidence of California Gnatcatchers (a specie~ being protected throughout the region by both county and city designated biological open spaces). Recommendations for extensive habitat preservation are made. It ia most strongly recommended that development be limited to the western and southernmost portions of the site. INTRODUCTION A biological survey of the Lynndale Hills site was performed by Pacific Southwest Biological Services, Inc. at the request of Martin R. Kolkey of Cameo Development Company, San Diego. The purpose of the survey was to identify sensitive biological resources and constraints in the preliminary phases of development design. METHODS The botanical portion of the survey was conducted by Craig H. Reiser on August 8, 1989. The on-foot survey covered all slope aspects, soil types, and drainages. Particular attention was given to the cactus population on site. Vegetation and sensitive plant locations were delineated on a 1" = 1.00' topographic map. The zoological portion of the survey was conducted by Daniel J. Grout on August 10, 1989 from 1000 hours to 1500 hours. Skies were clear and sunny with a temperature of 86 ° F. at 1100 hours; winds were negligible. The site was further examined on 10 February 1990 by Keith W. Merkel. Wildlife identifications were 0310819o 1 PSBS #738 aided by binoculars (10 x 40 power). Unobserved species were identified through indirect signs (i.e., scat, tracks, calls, nests and burrows, etc.). Prior biological surveys of the immediate region were examined to assess sensitive resources known from the vicinity of the site (PSBS 1989a, 1989b, 1989c). Scientific nomenclature used in this report is from the following standard references: vegetation, Holland (1986); flora, Beauchamp (1986) and Manz (1974); birds, Unitt (1984); reptiles and amphibians, Stebbins (1985); and mammals, Jameson and Peeters (1988). Wildlife habitat delineations generally follow Mayer and Laudenslayer (1988). LOCATION The site is situated in Range 2 West,Township 18 South of the San Bernardino Base and Meridian; USGS National City Quadrangle (Figure 1). A portion of the western boundary is adjacent to the 805 Freeway;, Lyandale Lane abuts the northwestern corner. GENERAL PHYSIOGRAPHY The property occupies rolling, predominantly west-facing slopes which are hemmed in on all sides by existing development. Four separate hills interdigitate with three minor drainages. Low elevation is approximately 75 feet in the southwestern corner of the site. High elevation is approximately 160 feet along £di slopes on the eastern boundary. Soils for the site are Salinas Clay on falrly level terrain and Linne Clay loam on slopes (Bowman 1973). The underlying geology is Upper Pliocene and Pleistocene Marine (Rogers 1973). BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES VEGETATION There are three vegetation types extant on the property: Diegan Sage Scrub, Riparian, and Disturbed/Exotic (Figure 2). 0310819o 2 PSBS #738 FIGURE 1. PROJECT VICINITY MAP , USGS 7.5' National City Quadrangle PSBS #T38 T6 100 125 125 5O 150 IOQ VEGETATION [~ Diegan Sage Scrub  M ulefat Riparian ~ Disturbed/Exotic ~ Proposed Open Space SENSITIVE RESOURCES  ] Coastal Cactus Wren [~] California Gnatcatcher I 0 0 ~-] Orange-Throated Whiptail [-~ Snake Cholla Ashy-Footed Clubmoss [~ Coast Barrel Cactus [~ San Diego Sunflower FIGURE 2. VEGETATION AND SENSITIVE RESOURCES PSBS #738 ~ (10 acres) Southwestern San Diego County includes a cactus phase of sage scrub not seen elsewhere in California, but better developed in Baja California, Mexico. Typically, a variety of species of cacti grow sympatrically in an association which includes the dominant sage shrubs. Found on the Lynndale site on a south-facing slope near the northern boundary are numerous Coastal Cholla (Opuntia prolifera). The more mature individuals at 4-6 feet in height are t~tiliTed by the San Diego Cactus Wren and numerous nests were noted (1-3 nests seen in each of 11 different cholla; some obviously not presently in use). Also well represented was Fishhook Cactus (Mammilla~ia dioica), a species now restricted to only scattered locales on the coast where it is seldom abundant as it is here (this species is more common in the Colorado Desert). The Coast Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia littoralis) occurs occasionally with several spineless hybrids referable to Mexican Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus- indica). A single Coast Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus viddescens) was noted. Non-cactus elements associated with the preceding species are Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis), a desert species localized on the coast in the South Bay area, Lady Fingers (Dudleya edulis) with its uniquely terete and fleshy leaves, and California Desert Thorn (Lycium califomicum). Dominant plants within the typical Diegan Sage Scrub (minus the cacti) are Coastal Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), and Flat-top Buckwheat (Edogonum fasciculatum) with its distinctive, umbellate inflorescences. Occasional shrubs include San Diego Sunflower (~qguiera laciniata), Lemonadeberry (Rhus integrifolia), Goldenbush (Isocoma veneta), Bladderpod (Cleome isomeds), and Mojave Yucca (Yucca schidigera) with its lance-shaped, leathery leaves and tree-like, basal trunks. Within the understory is Fimbriate Spineflower (Chorizanthe fimbdata), Annual Three Awn Grass (Adstida adscensionis) with its beet red color, Plumed Beardgrass (Bo&dochloa barbb~odis), and Fascicled Tarweed (Hemizoniafasciculata). At the few mesic locales, where water resources are greater, grow Golden Stars (Bloomeria crocea), Checkerbloom (Sidalcea malvaeflora), and in the flats, Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus ). Riparian (0.2 acre) This miniscule habitat includes a thicket of Mule Fat (Bacchads salicifolia). Several Arroyo Willow (Salbc lasiolepis) grow at the head of the northernmost drainage. The handful of wetland species in the PSBS #738 undcrstory include the weedy Cocklcburr (Xanthium strumarium) and Willow Herb (Epilobium adenocaulon) with its tiny white petals. ~ (1.7 acres) A residence is extant in the southwestern portion of the site and peripheral terrain has been disturbed by years of residential use. Aside from scattered exotic plantings around the building, weedy elements preva/l. These include Wild Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronariurn), Horseweed (Conyza canadensis), and Pig Thistle (Sonchus asper). Seventy-two species of plants were recorded on site of which twenty-eight are non-native elements (Table 1). An estimated 10% of the sites flora consist of evanescent spring annuals which had decomposed by the August survey date; none of these species is expected to be sensitive. Aside from the Snake Cholla, no unusual elements were noted. ZOOLOGICAL RESOURCES GENERAL WILDLIFE HABITAT Aimost the entire site is covered by Diegan Sage Scrub with a small inholding of riparian habitat in the northern canyon and a highly disturbed area to the south where a presently occupied residence is situated. The generally small size and isolated condition of the site belies its importance as quallty habitat for sensitive bird species which are generally restricted to San Diego County's Coastal Sage Scrub communities, such as the California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila califomica) and the Coastal Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus bntnneicapillus sandiegense), as well a number of sensitive lizards, such as the Orange-throated Whiptail (Cnemidophonts hyperythrus) and, possibly, the San Diego Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma coronatum). The large, mature stands of Coast Cholla are excellent nesting sites for the Cactus Wrens; virtually every large stand had at least one day-nest and/or a previously active nest. AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES While no amphibians are expected to occur on-site, two species of reptiles were observed. An unusually large, adult Orange-throated Whiptail (Cnemidophoms I~vperythms) was observed in the sage scrub on thc 031o8190 6 PSBS #738 northern portion of the site. Very few individuals of this size are usually seen in the wild. In addition, Western Fence Lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis) were present on the property. Although no San Diego Coast Horned Lizards were observed on site, they may well be present in the excellent habitat on-site. BIRDS Eleven species of birds were observed on the site (Table 2). Most of the species are typical of coastal scrub habitats: California Thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum), California Towhee (Pipilo crissalis), Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna), Scrub Jay (/lphelocoma coerulescens), and Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus). In addition, an Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinera~cens) was observed in the ravine in the southern portion of the site. The rather ubiquitous House Finch (Carpodacus nteMcanus), Mourning Dove (Zenaida macn~ura), and Common Raven (Corvus corax) were also present on the property. The remaining two species found on the site are sensitive species, both threatened by habitat destruction in San Diego County. The California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica) is abundant on the site. It was found in densities much higher than typical surveys in coastal sage have previously revealed. Ten birds were observed, comprising 4-5 territories. All but two of these individuals were found in the northern half of the property, and they are breeding on-site, as evidenced by juveniles present and calling. At least three pairs of breeding Coastal Cactus Wrens are present on-site. These colonial nesters are predominantly occupying the northern half of the site, with nests in the large stands of cholla. The quality of the habitat is enhanced by the fact that there are young stands of cholla which will mature in several years. MAMMALS In addition to the usual assemblage of the Desert Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii), Botta's Pocket Gopher (Thomomys bottae), and California Ground Squirrel (Spennophihts beecheyi), the tracks and bones of a Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) were found on the site (Table 2). 7 PSBS #738 SENSITIVE BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES SENSITIVE VEGETATION ~eruh The historically extensive Diegan Sage Scrub which occurred throughout coastal and inland San Diego County has been heavily impacted by urbzni?ztion pressures. Large blocks of Dicgan Sage Scrub have routinely been ~fractured" into small isolated pockets of habitat. Although fragmented and only a vestige of a historically much larger habitat, this area has an important accumulation of sensitive bird species. SENSITIVE PLANTS OCCURRrNG ON-SI'IE The following four spccles of scnsltlve plants were seen on the property:. San Di o Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus viddescens) LISTING: CNPS List 2 R-E-D Code 1-3-1 State/Fed. Status --/C2 (California Native Plant Society, Smith and Berg 1988) DI~'P, IBIYrION: Coastal San Diego County;, Baja California, Mexico California HABITAT: Diegan Sage Scrub hilkides, periphery of vernal pools KNOWN SITES: Barrel Cactus occurs at many locales throughout the coastal region. It should be looked for particularly on killsides with intact Diegan Sage Scrub. It prefers sites near the crest of slopes. On Otay Mesa this cacti grows in Mima Mound habitat in association with vernal pools. Its highest densities are found in this area with particularly large populations northeast of Brown Field and the east end of Wruck Canyon. Other sites with substantial populations include the Naval Subase at Point Loma and the northwestern slopes of Mother Miguel Mountain. Locales with over 100 individuals should be considered major sites. STATUS: Substantially declining. Once very common along the coast, many small and mid-sized populations are routinely being impacted by grading for urban development. Only one cactus was noted on site. This lone individual is not considered biologically significant. Snake Cholla. (Opuntia parryi var. serpentina) LISTING: CNPS List lB R-E-D Code 3-3-2 State/Fed. Status -- /C2 DISTRIBUTION: San Diego County; Baja California, Mexico HABITAT: Diegan Sage Scrub, Coastal Chaparral KNOWN SITES: Scattered shrubs growing from Florida Canyon in Balboa Park to the Mexican border. Population densities are typically small. Most known sites are endangered by development within the next 5-10 years. Mysteriously, this cactus is not being planted anywhere, yet it seems quite capable of being propagated and rooted from cuttings. I recommend immediate introduction on state and federal protected lands in southern San Diego County. A good site is found on a hillside south of lower Otay Lakes Dam. An excellent population grows on the Subase at Point Loma, south of McClelland Road. Significant populations on the northern slopes and bluffs of Poggi Canyon. 03/~/~ 8 PSBS #738 STATUS: Substantially declining. This cactus is not being protected in situ when it occurs in areas of development and is becoming extremely rare. Mitigation plans are regularly ignoring its presence or moving cacti to newly cut slopes in artificial habitats where its long term establishment is extremely suspect. Three small stands of this cacti were found on-site. Owing to the few extant sites known for the species, the population on-site must be considered significant. Ashy S1}ike Moss (Selaginella cinerascens) LISTING: CNPS List 4 R-E-D Code 1-2-1 State/Fed. Status -- None DIKrR/BUTION: San Diego, Orange counties; Baja California, Mexico HABITAT:. Undisturbed chaparral, Diegan Sage Scrub KNOWN SrlEs: Ubiquitous at many sites in coastal San Diego County with populations heaviest around the periphery of the City of San Diego. Occurs by the ten of millions. A good indicator of site degradation as it rarely inhabits disturbed soils. STATUS: Declining due to coastal urbanization. This species should be deleted from the CNPS listing -- it is much too common. The population on-site is not considered biologically significant. ~ (Hguiera laciniata) LISTING: CNPS List 2 R-E-D Code 1-2-1 State/Fed. Status -- None DISTRIBUTION: San Diego Couaty, Baja California, Mexico HABITAT:. Diegan Sage Scrub KNOWN SITES: A dominant shrub in southern San Diego County in Diegan Sage Scrub habitat away from the immediate coast. Very common in areas of the Jamul Mountains: found by the thousands east of Upper Otay Lake as well as along the north shore of Lower Otay Lake. Were it not for the extensive recent development of its habitat, this species should not be listed by CNPS. STATUS: Declining substantially but still found at numerous locales. The population on site is limited and considered of minor biological significance. SENSITIVE PLANTS OCCURRING IN THE REGION BUT NOT OBSERVED ON-SITE Otav Tarweed (Hemizonia conjugens) Only two sizeable extant populations are known for the Otay Tarwced: along Otay Lakes Road south of Bonita, and at several nearby sites in the Poggi Canyon area. On a small bluff above Otay Valley Road approximately 500 plants were found straddling a fence cordoning off the United Enterprises property to the east. It also occurs in similar habitat on the hill to the east. Listed as 3-3-2 by the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) (Smith and Berg 1988) and Endangered by the California Department of Fish and Game. o3/o8/,~ 9 PSBS #T38 ~ (Muilla clevelandii) Cleveland's Golden Stars, although not inhabiting vernal pools, are often associated with Mima Mounds and thc environs of vernal pools. Thc County range extends from Rancho Santa Fe south to Otay Mesa, with thc easternmost collection from Foster, just east of El Cajon. An Otay Valley Road population grows in a vernally moist cracked clay soil along the periphery of an,'lrtemisia califomica dominated Diegun Sage Scrub. CNPS listed as 2-2-2; the plant ~s considered endangered within a portion of its range. Greene's Ground Cher~ (Physalis greenei) An estimated 200 Physalis greenei grow beneath shrubs on a south-facing hillside adjacent to the intcrsection of Otay Valley Road and the unpaved Otay River Road. Listed by CNPS but uuranked owing to taxonomic questions, Greene's Ground Cherry, as currently constituted, is an extremely rare coastal species related to P. crassifolia on the desert. Other substantial sites occur in Salt Creek within a large stand of Coast Cholla (Opuntia prolifera), in the Otay VaLley off-site and upstream of the study area, and on a small canyon creek near Dulzura. Small populations have been recorded on south-facing hill~ides of Otay VaLley oae mile east of the study corridor. ~ (Adolphia califomica) California Spinebush is CNPS listed as 1-2-1 and is considered moderately endangered. Twenty to thirty CaLifornia Spinebush grow on a mesa east of Nirvana Avenue and south of Energy Way. San Die o Marsh-Elder (Ira hayesiana) The Otay River Valley and its tributaries have the heaviest concentrations of San Diego Marsh-Elder known in the County. Withia the floodplain, Iva is a dominant shrub along both cobbly and sandy channels paralleling Otay Valley Road. This species carries a listing of 2-2-1 and is considered to be of moderate rarity and endangerment. This shrub is opportunistic and locally common in the Otay, Tijuana, San Dieguito, San Diego, and Sweetwater river beds; however, its U.S. range is limited to these few San Diego County riparian sites. 03/o8/90 10 PSBS #738 The following species also occur in the region: San Diego Thornmint (Acanthomintha ilicifolia) grows in cracked clay soils as in Poggi Canyon. It was searched for where suitable conditions occurred, but was not found. This species is known from only a few south county locations. San Diego Sagewort (Artemisiapalmeri) may be present in the Otay river bed in small numbers, but no populations are currently known or have previously been located in the study area. San Diego Ragweed (Ambrosia pumilla) is an extremely rare ragweed; however, localized reports in the Otay region, upon further investigation, have turned out to be Weak-leaf Burbnsh (Ambrosia confeniflorum). Orcutt's Brodiaea (Brodiaea orcuttii) prefers deep vernal pool habitats not found at the site. Orcutt's Bird's Beak (Cordylanthus orcuttianus) was historically found in extensive numbers in the Otay River floodplain. No appropriate habitat occurs on-site. San Diego Hnsseanthus (Dudleya vatiegata) occurs on open, xeric bluffs, and in broken, rocky habitat. Both Cliff Spurge (Euphorbia misera) and San Diego Burbush (Ambrosia chenopodiifolia) are found on Otay Mesa, with the latter growing at its northernmost known locale to the east in Rice Canyon. Adder's-tongue Fern Ophioglossum califomicum was searched for but was not found. This highly cryptic species is very difficult to fred except following heavy rains. Nightshade (Solanum tenuilobatum) is extremely localized on Otay Mountain and Otay Mesa. This species was not found within the study area. All plants not found could have been identified during the survey period. Had any of these species been present in the study area in appreciable numbers, they should have been detected during the field surveys. SENSITIVE VERTEBRATES Three species of sensitive vertebrates were observed on the site: Orange-throated Whiptail, Coastal Cactus Wren, and California Gnatcatcher. Oranee-throated Whiptail (Cnemidophonts hyperythrus beldingi) LISTING: SDNGWS (1976) - Special Concern CITES (1976) - Category II IUCN (1979) - Rare USFWS (1986) - Category II SDHS (1980) - Threatened CDFG (1977, 1988, 1989) ~ Protected (Sensitive) 03/08/90 11 PSBS #738 DISTRIBUTION: Limited; found from southern Orange County, western Riverside and San Diego counties south to southern Baja California, Mexico. HABITAT:. Open scrubland STATUS: Limited distribution; found only in western San Diego County and Baja California, Mexico. An unusually large, adult Orange-throated Whiptail was observed on-site. ~ (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus sandiegense) LISTING: No official listing; however, knowledgeable ornithologists consider this subspecies to be one of the most endangered birds in Southern California. DISTRIBUTION: Very patchy pattern of distribution from southern Ventura County, California to Ensenada, Baja Caldornla, Mexico. HABITAT:. Patches of prickly pear and cholla cactus STATUS: This distinctive subspecies is becoming less and less common due to habitat distinction with up to 50% of the population's having become extinct in the past 10 years (Amadeo M. Rea, pers. comm.). Two pairs were seen in the northeastern portion of the site. While their nests were on the northernmost hillside, both pairs were observed foraging on the adjacent slopes across the drainage. An additional Cactus Wren was sighted on the central ridge through the site. Although additional birds may be present on-site judging from other nests in the area, they were not observed. California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica) LISTING: Remsen (1980) - Priority II Everett (1979) - Declining USFWS (1986) - Category II DISTRIBUTION: San Diego County, Riverside County, and Orange County; Baja California, Mexico. HABrrAT: Diegan Sage Scrub STATUS: Coastal species seriously declining to loss of habitat. Permanent resident. United States population estimated 1200 pairs (Atwood 1980). San Diego County most important United States region. One pair of California Gnatcatchers were observed in the northernmost drainage, just west of the two pairs of Cactus Wrens. In the second drainage from the northern boundary, one pair was utilizing the northern slope while a second pair with two fledglings were bounding about the California Sagebrush. A fourth pair occupies habitat in the southwestern corner near the freeway on-ramp. 03/08/9o 12 PSBS #738 EXPECTED BIOLOGICAL IMPACTS The proposed project has been reviewed and drastically modified on the basis of input from both City staff and the project biologist. With these changes the residual impacts of the project would be the loss of one pair of gnatcatchers with the possible loss of a second pair of birds. The project would also lead to the loss of the single Coast Barrel Cactus present approximately one-half of the San Diego Sunflower plants, one of three stands of Snake Cholla, and most of the Ashy-footed Clubmoss present on the site. The project would also lead to the loss of approximately 8 acres of Diegan Sage Scrub habitat occupied by a common assemblage of native species and at least one Orange-throated Whiptall. Under the proposed project design, 2-3 pairs of California Guatcatchers and all three pairs of Coastal Cactus Wrens would be preserved in a single dedicated open space. Also preserved in this open space would be approximately one-half of the San Diego Sunflower plants and two of three stands of the sensitive Snake Cho[la. The partial preservation of the resources on the site would substantially reduce impacts; however, impacts remaining are considered to be significant, but mitigable through the careful implementation of a variety of enhancement and protective measures. These are identified in the following section of this report. RECOMMENDATIONS TO REDUCE BIOLOGICAL IMPACTS The fo[lowing measures are recommended to mitigate biologlcal impacts to a level of non-significance. Full implementation of these measures would achieve this purpose. 1. All Ferocacms, Mammillaria, Opuntia parryi var. serpentina, Opuntia prolifera and Opuntia littoralis cactus occurring within the areas to be developed should be transplanted to the disturbed portions of the open space and along the fringes of this area which face the development. 2. All disturbed scrub vegetation including: Isocoma veneta, Anemisia califomica, Edogonum fasciculatttm, Baccharis sarothroides, Malosma laurina, l~gltiera laciniata, Rhtts integtifolia, Simmondsia chinensis. 3. Fencing of all lots facing the open space lot and other easy accesses to this area should be removed or adequately blocked. 4. Clearing activities on the site should be restricted from occurring within 100 feet of any active California Gnatcatcher or Cactus Wren nests or all clearing should be restricted from occurring between 15 March and 1 August. 03/08/90 13 L~nndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b ¥ D U K E S August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704, REP ACOUSTICA5 ANALYSIS REPORT Lynndale Hills Pre-zone NO. 77-205440 Environmental Initial Study NO 89-1004 PREPARED FOR CAMEO DEVELOPMENT COMPANY 5125 CONVOY STREET SAN DIEGO CA 92111 619/292-4330 ATTENTION: MARTIN R. KOLKEY XINOS ENTERPRISES 9619 CHESAPEAKE DRIVE SUITE 102 SAN DIEGO CA 92123 619/278-5310 ATTENTION: JUDITH A. ANNALA PREPARED BY DUKES Noise Control 7940 Silverton Avenue Suite 201 San Diego, CA 92126 (619) 549-2119 1 800 44 NOISE (446-6473) - Lynndsle Hills Pre-zone P r e p s r e d b ¥ D U K E S August 26, 1989 PILE: 9704.REP TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1.0 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS ....................... 1 1.1 Purpose 1.2 Observations 1.3 Conclusions INTRODUCTION ..................... 2.1 Project ~;sc~i~%i;~ 2.2 Project Location 2.3 Legal Description 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING ...................... 3 3.1 Existing Noise Source 3.2 Field Survey 3.3 Future Noise Source 4.0 METHODOLOGY ................................ 5 4.1 Roadway Noise Calculations 4.2 Traffic Model Adjustment 4.3 Equipment 5.0 IMPACT ..................................... 7 5.1 Exterior Noise 6.0 MITIGATION ................................. 7 6.1 Exterior Noise 7.0 CERTIFICATION .............................. 8 8.0 REFERENCES ................................. 9 8.1 Notes 8.2 Bibliography TABLE 3.1 Traffic Noise Survey ........................... 3 TABLE 3.2 CNEL Range on Site ............................. 4 Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b y D d K E S August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP a~-XlBI'I"8 A Vicinity Map (current USGS 7.5 Minute series topographic B-i&B-2 County Diego Orthographic Maps showing topography in of San the immediate area of the project, and calculation cross-section locations. The Design Layout has been super- imposed over the map. 1-805 and the H Street extension were not built at the time this map was prepared. The distances and elevations used in the roadway elevation exhibits were ascertained with the aid of Caltrans "As Built" Construction documents, some of which are included, and physical measure- ments during the field surveys. C Conceptual Design Layout showing locations of the existing and future 65 dB, CNEL contours and the project parameters. D-1 through D-6 Topography sections showing perspective of project elements, such as buildings, property lines, etc. in relation to the roadway at each calculation cross-section. E-1 through E-4 Caltrans "As Built" Plans used for determination of distances and elevations for 1-805 and H Street. ii Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b ¥ · K E S August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704. REP 1 - O SUMMARY OF FINDINGS 1.1 Purpose This analysis addresses the existing and future noise impact and the acoustical mitigation required at the proposed project. This report may be submitted as evidence of compliance with existing and applicable provisions of the City of Chula Vista Noise Element to the General Plan. 1.2 OBSERVATION The project, Lynndale Hills Pre-zone, is located northeast of the intersection of 1-805 (Interstate 805) and H Street. The calculated CNEL (Community Noise Equivalent Level) caused by traffic varies on the site from 46.8 to 64.9 decibels under current traffic conditions and will increase to between 44.1 and 65.0 decibels under future conditions. 1.3 CONCLUSIONS Exterior Noise Neither the existing nor the future CNEL will exceed 65 decibels on the property; Therefore no mitigation other than the natural noise attenuation as the result of topography and distances is required. Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b ¥ D K E S August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project is a prezone application for the subdivision of thirty-three lots for R-l-10 zoning. The conceptual design layout is shown in Exhibit C with existing and future noise contours. 2.2 Site Description The site is located north east of the intersection of 1-805 and H Street in the City of Chula Vista, and is situated above both road- ways being partially shielded from 1-805 by a knoll. Please refer to the Thomas Guide page 70, coordinates A-3. Also refer to the attached Site Plan, Exhibit A, and the local topography cross-sections, Exhibits D-1 through D-6, which show the relationship of the site to the surrounding topography and the roadways. 2.3 Report Requirements This report is required to supplement the application for the Initial Study and to satisfy the requirements of the City of Chula Vista Noise Element to the General Plan which deems residential land use to be incompatible with CNEL exceeding 65 decibels.1 2 Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b y D U K E S August 26. 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 3.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.1 EXISTING NOISE SOURCES Interstate 805, an eight-lane road west of the site, is a significant noise source in the area with an existing Average Daily Trip load of 132,000, a 2.5 percent medium, and a 2.5 percent heavy truck mix.2 H Street, a six-lane road south of the site, is a significant noise source in the area with an existing Average Daily Trip load of 51,760, a two percent medium, and a two percent heavy truck m±x.3 3.2 FIELD SURVEY Sound level measurements were conducted on the site as indicated below: TABLE 3.1 TRAFFIC NOISE SURVEY MEASUREMENT DATE PERIOD LEQ AUTOS MEDIUM HEAVY POSITION (hfs) (dB) TRUCKS TRUCKS A 08/08/89 1300-1400 63.0 8,312 167 165 B 08/08/89 1430-1530 56.8 9,014 165 126 C 08/08/89 1630-1700 60.7 5,749 101 63 The calculated and measured noise levels were found to be in close agreement with those values measured for the same traffic conditions. Please refer to the roadway noise calculations provided in the exterior noise section of this report for detailed calculation results. Lynndale Hil~s Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b ¥ D ( E S August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 3.3 FUTURE NOISE LEVELS 3.3.1 FUTURE NOISE SOURCES Interstate 805 ADT will increase to 213,000 with eight-lanes; 2.5 percent medium and 2.5 percent heavy truck mix. H Street ADT will increase to 54,000 with six-lanes; two percent medium and two percent heavy truck mix. 3.3.2 CALCULATED TRAFFIC CNEL The following is a summary of the traffic noise levels on the site taken from in the Exterior Noise Section of this report: TABLE 3.2 CNEL RANGE ON SITE Receptor EXISTING FUTURE elevation CNEL (dB) CNEL (dB) 1st floor: 46.8 to 53.7 44.1 to 58.8 2nd floor: 53.7 to 64.9 47.3 to 65.0 Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b ¥ D { E S August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 4 . 0 METHODOLOGY 4.1 ROADWAY NOISE CALCULATIONS The current version of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) STAMINA 2.0 TRAFFIC MODEL was used to calculate the Hourly Noise Level (HNL) at designated positions in the attached detailed calculations. A modification of this program, written by DUKES, also calculates minimum barrier heights necessary for compliance with a given exterior land use criteria. The FHWA model addresses the following traffic conditions: - Heavy truck height and emission levels; - Medium truck height and emission levels; - Passenger car height and emission levels; - Relative elevations, and distances of the roadway, banks or walls to the receptor; - Increased emissions of uphill bound heavy trucks; - Receptor's angle of view of the roadway to the left and right; Overall traffic flow and vehicle speeds; and The mixture of passenger vehicles, medium and heavy trucks. The program does not account for: Grade surface variations; - Uneven rate of acoustical propagation; - Acoustical reflection from walls or roadway cut slopes; - Variations in traffic speed due to congestion or the presence of on/off ramps; - Hourly variations in truck traffic mix (Heavy truck percentages decrease during peak hours; and frequently - Modification to vehicles such as off-road tires which are common in some areas. 4.2 TRAFFIC MODEL ADJUSTMENT The FHWA STAMINA 2.0 TRAFFIC MODEL is a generalized prediction tool which has provided correlation between traffic conditions and Sound "!,, 5 Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b y D [ E $ August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP Levels. Since the model is a generalized predictor, on-site Average Sound Exposure levels (LEQ) (with appropriate observations concerning traffic characteristics and site conditions) are measured for comparison with the model's prediction at specific locations on the site. The purpose of the field survey is to insure that the calculated nois levels truly represent on-site conditions. Using the traffic counts from the field survey above, the Leq is calculated and compared with levels actually measured. Under most circumstances, the FHWA model us to determine noise levels, overestimates. When this occurs, the calcu lated levels are accepted as a worst case scenario. However, when measured levels are higher, unforeseen on-site factors such as reflection from buildings, roadway cut embankments, etc. may be the cause of noise which is higher than predicted. When this occurs, the calculated values are adjusted upward. This adjustment is then taken into consideration when calculating barrier heights and other mitigation. 4.3 EQUIPMENT Sound Level Monitoring The following equipment was used in the acoustical survey. Type: Precision integrating Sound Level Meter, ANSI, Type I Model: 2230 Serial No.1211376 Manufacturer: Bruel & Kjaer Type: Time integrating Sound Level Meter, ANSI, Type II Model: 710M; serial No. 0787A0317 Manufacturer: Larson-Davis Laboratories Miscellaneous Three register traffic counters, distance measuring wheel, tripod, wind screen, calibrator, three Heat-Set two-way radios. 6 Prepared by DU ES Lynndale Hills Pre-zone August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 5.0 IMPACT 5.1 EXTERIOR NOISE The CNEL varies on the site from 46.8 to 64.9 decibels under current conditions and will increase tO 44.1 to 65.0 decibels under future conditions. Refer to the Exterior Noise section of this report for detailed analysis noise levels at each lot. The proposed project is therefore compatible with exis%ing and applic standards of the City of Chulla Vista Noise Element to the General Plan. 6 - O MITIGATION 6.1 EXTERIOR NOISE No mitigation is required other than the attenuation which is provided by the topography and the distances of the lots from the ~oadway. L~ndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b y b U K E $ August 26. 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 7.0 CERTIFICATION The findings and recommendations of this acoustical report are a true and factual analysis of the potential environmental effects associated with the proposed development. Acoustical Engineer Project Engineer Michael Burrill Said Na]afi PROJECT STAFF Carlos Gomez Acoustical Technician My-Thanh Dinh Computer Data Technician Dario Alcocer Senior Programmer Darrell Reich Associate Programmer Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b ¥ D U K E $ August 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.R£P 8.0 REFERENCES 8.1 NOTES 1. Refer to current City of Chula Vista Noise element to the General Plan. 2. Refer to Caltrans (California Department of Transportation), District XI: 1988 traffic volume, April 1988. Information was researched by Robert Gibbs, Traffic Engineer, Traffic Engineering, Caltrans, (619) 237-6969 and provided to DUKES staff during telephone conversation on August 17, 1989 at 9:20 a.m.. 3. Rorer to $~ND~G (San D±e~o ~ssoc±at±on of Re~±onal Governmonts), $or~os VII: 2010 tra££~c pro~oct~ons, ~pr±l 1988. Information was also provided dur±ng telephone conversation with Robert Gibbs as in Note 1. 4. City of Chula Vista Traffic Flow for City of Chula Vista: 1989 Traffic Volumes, 1989, 6. Information was provided during telephone conversation with Frank Rivera, Assistant Civil Engineer, Traffic Engineering, City of Chula Vista, (619) 691-5180 on August 17, 1989 at 10:05 am. 5. SANDAG (San Diego Association of Regional Governments), Senario IV land use: 2010 traffic projections, March 10, 1989. Information was provided during telephone conversation with Mehran Sepehri, Associate Traffic Engineer, Traffic Engineering, City of Chula Vista, (619) 691-5180 on August 17, 1989 at 11:10 am. Lynndale Hills Pre-zone P r e p a r e d b y D b., E S Au~st 26, 1989 FILE: 9704.REP 8.2 BIBLIOGRAPHY Acoustical Society of America, Vern O. Knudsen and Cyril M. Harris. Acoustical Designing in Architecture. New York: American Institute of Physics. 1978. 55-62. American National Standards Institute. S12.1: Guidelines for the Preparation for Standard Procedures to Determine the Noise Emission From Sources. New York: ANSI. 1983. American Society of Testing and Materials. Book of ASTM Standards for Thermal Insulation; Environmental Acoustics, Vol 04.06, Philadelphia: 1987. Section E90-85, E96-80, E336-84, E398- 83, 13-73, E597-81, E989-84, & E1014-84. New York: American Society of Testing and Materials, 1987. Heeden, Robert A., "Compendium of Materials for Noise Control", U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, November, 1978. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Robert A. Heeden. Compendium of Materials for Noise Control. Chicago: Department of Health, Education and Welfare. November, 1976. U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) STAMINA 2.0 Highway Traffic Noise Program. 10 THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION FOR THE LYNNDALE HILLS PREZONE/ INITIAL STUDY A Cultural Resource Survey and Evaluation of 1!.9 Acres Prepared For: The City of Chula Vista and Cameo Development Company 5125 Convoy Court Suite 301 San Diego, California 92111 Prepared By: Brian F. Smith Brian F. Smith and Associates 14678 Ibex Court San Diego, California 92129 (619) 484-0915 August 21, 1989 ABSTRACT The following report has been compiled as part of an initial study for the Lynndale Hills subdivision project located near the intersection of Interstate 805 and H Street in the City of Chula Vista The archaeological study included a survey of the I 1.9-acre parcel and the testing and evaluation of a small prehistoric site identified during the survey. The investigation of the prehistoric site, temporarily designated as LH-1, demonsu:ated that the site was not significant and retained no further research potential. The proposed development will impact Site LH- I; however, because the site lacks research potential and sensitive deposits, the impacts are not considered significant and no mitigation measures will be require& 1 ir · F C?rl-~T~Tf~q 84 EAST "J" STRICItT * CllULAVISTA, CAIJFOI~.NIA92010 * 619 425-9600 EACtt CHILD IS AN INDIVIDUAL OF GREAT WORTH BOARD OF EDUCAIION January 29, 1990 JOSEPH 0 CUMMINGS, Fl~ D. SHARON GILES PATRICK A JUDD F~,~x~xn~,~m,O Planning Department ,~E~mu City of Chula Vista SUPEnm~ENDENT 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista, CA 92010 RE: CV Tract No. PCS-90-06 Subdivision - Lynndale Hills Deposit No. DP-727 APN 592-100-30 & 49 Ot.mer/Developer - Cameo Development Company Dear Sir: This is to advise you that the Lynndale Hills Subdivision is located with the Chula Vista City School District serves children from Kindergarten through Grade 6. The Board of Education has established attendance area boundaries and transportation services. Allen School is the closest existing facility to the above-referenced project. However, the District is unable at this time to advise the City of Chula Vista or potential homeowners which school children from this subdivision will attend. Schools in this area are at or near capacity and children may be required to attend schools in other locations in the District. School assignments may also be based on individual student needs, special programs, or the District's integration goals. It is also possible children from Lynndale Hills may attend a new school constructed at some future date. Please be advised that a developer fee of S.69 per square foot of assessable area is currently being charged to assist in providing elementary facilities. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact this office. Sincerely, Kate Shurson Director of Planning APR 5 19~ KS :d p cc: F,a~in R. Kolkey Sweetwater Union High School District March I9. 1990 '.~ 23 19~j Mr. Douglas D. Reid Environmental Review Coordinator City of Chula Vista 276 Fourth Avenue Chula Vista. CA 92010 Dear Mr. Reid: RE: IS-89-84 DESCRIPTION: 17 Single Family Detached Dwellings LOCATION: North of East 'H' Street. to the east of 1-805 and south of Lyndale Lane APPLICANT: Cameo Development Company The above project will have an impact on the Sweetwater Union High School District. Payment of school fees will be required pursuant to Government Code No. 65995 fDeveloper Fees). prior to issuance of building permit. Respectfully. Director of Planning TS:ml 23 March 1990 Mr. Douglas D. Reid, Environmental Review Coordinator City of Chula Vista P. 0. box 1087 Chula Vista, California 92012 Re: Case No. IS-89-84 Dear Mr. Reid: Cameo Development Company is the project Applicant for the project locat- ed north of East H Street, east of 1-805 and south of Lynndale Lane, Case No. IS-89-8~. The area for which this project is planned is virgin California brush_land enveloping an extremely steep hill. During nor~l rainfall there is a drainage problem in the valley below. If the proposed 17 single-family detached dwellings are constructed atop the hill, it would necessitate cutting down the hill and the use of fill dirt in an expansive soil area. The natural watershed would be destroyed, impervious surfaces created and a major flooding problem would occur en- dangering the residences below. The proposed project would also destroy the natural habitat of ground squirrels, California quail, foxes, opossums, weasels, skunks, rabbits, Red-tailed hawks, western meadow larks, doves, orioles, the endangered least Bell's vireo plus other native birds. The only ingress and egress to this proposed project is from Bonita Road onto Lynnwood Drive which is one block east of 1-805 opposite Bonita Plaza Road which is one of the most congested and dangerous areas in San Diego County. The level of service on Bonita Road at this point is way below the acceptable level. We believe it to be LOS F. Lynnwood Drive is not a through street and there are now between eighty and ninety dwellings, a business (Pacific Tree Fa/~ms), also Bob's Firewood, and the future Beth Torah Temple using this narrow, winding two-lane road. If the project area off Lynndale Lane was rezoned to four times its present density, it could cause a very expensive as well as dangerous problem. The area is now zoned one dwelling unit per acre which is compatible to the terrain, the circulation element and the existing dwellings in the unincorporated area. We definitely believe this proposed project will have a significant effect on the environment and it is imperative an Environmental Impact Report be prepared. Sincerely, Mr. and Mrs. D. M. Lindeay 4370 Lynndale Lane Bonita, California 92002 cc Supervisor Brian Bilbray LJ~CO - Jane Merrill Sweetwater Community Planning Group .......... March 19, 1990 2 3 1990 Environmental Review Coordinator P.O. Box 1087 Chula Vista, CA 92012 RE: I S for Project of Property located north of East 'H' Street, to the east of 1-805 and south of Lynndale Lane. Dear Sir, We the undersigned, believe that the above mentioned project being proposed by Cameo Development Company will have a significant adverse effect on the environment. The 11.7 undeveloped area provides a habitat for many of our native animals and plants, such as: Red-Winged Hawks, Vireo birds, and other small animals. The plants that would be destroyed would be many species of native cactus, wildflowers, and Jojoba plants. In addition to environmental hazards, there would be significant safety issues. The street, Lynndale Place, that would exit all the additional cars, at least 25, has only one exit. This would create a hazardous condition in the event of a natural disaster or fire. Also, there is a drainage problem and this most certainly would cause more water to pool at the beginning of the street, creating a potential for accidents because of increased traffic. We hope that you will seriously consider our concerns and issue a recommendation against the project. Sincerely, J~dy T. Basante 3112 Lynndale Lane Chula Vista, Ca. 92010 ,'."'/. ...,~_,f '~ ,~.~ .... LAFCO 1600 Pacific Highway-Room 452 San Diego, CA 92101 · (619) 531-54OO San Diego Local Agency Formation Commission Cchairpcrson April 23, 1990 Fred Nagcl Douglas Reid, Environmental Review Coordinator Members Planning Department Brian t~ Bilhra~ City of Chula Vista ~.l,,.r, ...... 276 Fourth Ave. Lincll Fromm Chula Vista, CA 92010 Marjoric }tcr~om SUBJECT: Lynndale Hills Negative Declaration Dear Mr. Reid: ~:'"~:'~'" Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the above-mentioned project. .IOhnc,.unl~MacDonaldBoard of LAFCO finds the environmental review to be comprehensive and adequate, ~upcrx:i~or~ and has no substantive comments. ~ikc (;otch J~NE P. MERRILL (~,un~iimcmhcr <:it, ,,t JPM:DMS:ih Counsel CITY OF CHULA VISTA DISCLOSURE STATEMENT APPLICANT'S STATEMENT OF DISCLOSURE OF CERTAIN OWNERSHIP INTERESTS ON ALL APPLICATIONS WHICH WILL REQUIRE DISCRETIONARY ACTION ON THE PART OF THE CITY COUNCIL, PLANNING COMMISSION AND ALL OTHER OFFICIAL BODIES. The following information must be disclosed: 1. List the names of all persons having a financial interest in the application. CAMEO DEVELOPMENT nn_, A CA. Corp. List the names of all persons havingany ownership interest in the property'involve~. John L. Knorr & Frances I. Knorr, Delbert L. Huqhes & Janice V. Huqhe Gately Sorens~n Co., A California Corporation, Robert R. Crowther & Juanita Crowther, William L. Shipley 2. If any person identified pursuant to (1) above is a corporation or partnership, list the names of all individuals owning more than 10% of the shares in the corporation or owning any partnership interest in the partnership. Aaron H. Kolkey Mart±n R. Kolkey 3. If any person 'identified pursuant to (1). above is a non-profit organization or a trust, lis~ the names of any person .serving as director 'of the non-profit organization or as trustee or beneficiary or trustor of the trust. 'N/A 4. Itave you had more than $250 worth of business transacted with any member of City staff, Boards, Commissions, Committees and Counci! within the past twelve months?' Yes No X If yes, please.indicate person(s) IPerson is defined as: "Any individual, firm, copartnership, joint venture, association, ~ club, fraternal organization, corporation~ estate,, trus~, receive[, syndicate, this and any other county, city and county, c~ty, municipality, district or other political subdivision, or any other~g~9? or combination acting as a unit., (NOTE: Attach additional nature of applica t/d WPC 070]P ~,0% ~A .~ : jJrt%8 R. Kolkev Vice-President A-I]0 ~ ... i ....2x~nt 0m type name 0f applicant Chula Vista Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 1 2. PUBLIC HEARING: PCZ-90-K-M City-initiated proposal to rezone certain territory, generally bounde~ by Main Street, Rios Avenue, agriculture lands adjacent to the Otay River Valley at the southern boundary of the City and a line 310 feet west of Date Street from its City-adopted County zone classifications to City classifications utilized throughout Chula Vista. The proposed specific rezonings and their precise territorial limits are depicted on attached Exhibit "A". (Continued) A. BACKGROUND 1. This proposal involves the rezoning of the Broderick's Otay Acres Subconmnunity of the Montgomery Specific Plan. The area is generally bounded by Main Street to the north, the Otay River valley to the south, Rios Avenue to the east and vacant and industrial land to the west. The western boundary extends north-south from Main Street to the Otay River, approximately 310 feet west of Date Street. Specifically, this request will convert the existing City-adopted County zoning to City zoning classifications. Those are as follows: A. C36 to R-1-5-P B. RV15 to R-1-5-P C. A70 (No change proposed at this time) 2. The Environmental Review Coordinator conducted Initial Studies, IS-88-4M and IS-88-65M, of potential environmental impacts associated with the Montgomery Specific Plan. Based on that attached Initial Studies and comments thereon, if any, the Coordinator has concluded that this reclassification would cause no significant environmental impacts as per the previously adopted Negative Declaration issued on IS-88-4M and IS-88-65M. 3. On March 7, 1990, the Montgomery Planning Committee unanimously directed staff to change staff recommendations from R-2-P to R-1-5-P for the areas that are zoned RV15 and C36, as noted above. 4. This item was continued from the meeting of April ll, 1990, so that the matter could be renoticed indicating the recommendation of the Montgomery Planning Committee. The Motion (4-2 - Tugenberg and Fuller voted no, Shipe absent) was to continue this item for four weeks. Chula Vista Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 2 B. RECOMMENDATION 1. Based on the Initial Studies and comments on the Initial Studies and Negative Declaration, find that this reclassification will have no significant environmental impacts and re-adopt the Negative Declaration issued on IS-88-4M and IS-88-65M for the Montgomery Specific Plan. 2. Adopt a motion recommending that the City Council adopt an ordinance to change the zones as described on the attached Exhibit "A". C. DISCUSSION Adjacent zoning and land use. North RS6 (proposed for R-1-6-P single family as part of Woodlawn Park Rezonings) South FW {San Diego City) Otay River, A-l-lO {San Diego City) open fields West M52 vacant M54 industrial suites A-l-lO {San Diego City) open fields, fl ood way East R-2-P mul ti -fatal 1 y R-2 mul ti-family A-l-lO (San Diego City) single family, fields FW (San Diego City) Otay River 2. Existing site characteristics. The topography of the area is generally flat with a southerly slope towards the Otay River valley. The gradient is steepest immediately south of Main Street. The plan area is almost entirely improved with single family residential units with some duplex or two units on one lot mixed throughout. The main streets in the community Date Street and Palm Avenue run north-south. Narrow private drives access interior lots, often requiring five and more dwelling units to use the same private drive. The area is not generally improved with complete curb, gutter and sidewalks although recently developed parcels may include frontage improvements. The streets may need further dedication and widening in the future. The City is undertaking public improvements regarding drainage problems associated with the north-south running streets. Chula Vista Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 3 Otay Valley Road traverses the plan area in an east-west fashion at the north and intersects with Main Street. This is the area's only outlet onto Main Street and it is difficult to negotiate traffic at times. Broderick's Otay Acres covers approximately 72 acres and consists of 190 lots. The average lot size per dwelling unit is slightly over one quarter acre. Approximately 73 % or 148 units of the residentially zoned land is developed with single family dwelling units. Approximately 13 percent or 24 units is improved with duplexes or two units on one lot. Eighteen lots comprising approximately 4.58 acres or 9% of the residentially zoned land are vacant. Their average lot size is 0.25 acre. There are no churches, parks or other community land uses within the boundaries. 3. Specific Plan. The Broderick's Otay Acres subcommunity area contains two land use designations on the Montgomery Specific Plan (per Exhibit B): Area Generally North of the Otay River Floodplain This entire area is designated "Low Medium Density Residential", 3-6 dwelling units per acre. The proposed zoning amendment is from C36 to R-1-5-P for the three most northwesterly lots and from RVl5 to R-1-5-P for the remaining area. Of the lots currently zoned C36, one is vacant and the other two appear to have single family residential and associated uses. For those areas designated Low/Medium Density Residential, it is recommended that the zoning classifications be changed from RV15 to R-1-5-P. This would preserve the predominant single-family character of the area but permit the construction of an additional unit on those lots which can achieve a density of one dwelling unit per 5,000 sq. ft., when measured from the center line of adjacent streets and alleys. Area Generally Within the Otay River Floodplain The remaining land in this subcommunity has been zoned by the County ATO, Limited Agriculture. The Montgomery Specific Plan designates the land "Whitelands, Parks and Open Space". No zone change is proposed at this time, pending further special comprehensive study for a regional park and/or open space area. D. ANALYSIS Several factors support the rezonings described above: 1. The Montgomery Specific Plan was adopted by Chula Vista City Council on January 12, 1988. These zone classifications are primarily proposed to implement that Specific Plan. Chula Vista Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 4 2. The rezonings proposed for the residential areas will continue to allow the type of single family and duplex developments as exist in the area today. Additional dwellings on the lots will be allowed where the lots are large enough, without having to subdivide the land as was the requirement under county zoning. The precise plan modifier will allow for discretionary review of projects prior to building permits. 3. The deferment of zoning in the Special Comprehensive Study Area will allow the city to consider the needs and possibilities of a regional park and open space lands for the Broderick's 0tay Acres and the Montgomery community. 4. In all cases, the proposed zone amendments are our best attempt to convert City-adopted County zoning to equivalent City zoning and to zoning compatible with the existing land uses without adversely impacting development capability of the properties. WPC 7442P R~l-5-p ~ i;, --; --~,- BRODERICK'S OTAY ACRES EXHIBIT A Proposed Zone Classifications --SCA1.E: 1" = 400' LETTIERI - MclNTYRE and ASSOCIATES : MAIN WHITELANDS , Montgomery Specific Plan Deslgnat,ons LETTIERI - MclNTYRE and ASSOCIATES EXCERPT FROM MONTGOMERY PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES OF 3/7/90 MONTGOMERY PLANNING 5 COMMITTEE MINUTES March 7, 1990 MS (Creveling/Roberts) that based on findings contained in Section "E" of the staff report, to recommend that the Planning Commission approve the tentative subdivision map for Villa del Rey Condos, Chula Vista Tract 90-05, subject to conditions 1 through 18 and Code Requirements 1 through 6. Member Creveling said he would like a response from Mr. Goldberg, who owned the property at 516 Oxford, as to his preference for condos or rentals. Mr. Goldberg replied that owners take pride in their property, tenants do not. Mr. Creveling said that on the basis of what he has heard and also Mr. Goldberg's answer, he would vote "yes" on the project. Member Castro indicated he would vote "yes" since this was a pipeline project. Member Roberts said he would vote "yes" for the same reason. Chairman Wheeland said she was concerned about the letter from the School District and that the area was overcrowded and would vote "no." Member McFarlin said she would abstain because the data was not transferred consistently. Member Palmer said she would vote "no." The motion to recommend approval carried 3-2-] with Palmer and Wheeland voting no and McFarlin abstaining. 3. B. PUBLIC HEARING: PCC-90-1M; PCC-90-2M: PCC-90-3M - Master Conditional Use Permits: Vehicle parking and storage - H.G. Fenton Company request continuation to April 18, 1990 MSUC to continue the public hearings on the item to the meeting of April 18, 1990. [(Wheeland/Creveling) 6-0] 3. C. PUBLIC HEARfNG: PCZ-90-K-M - City-initiated proposal to rezone certain territory, generally bounded by Main Street, Rios Avenue, agriculture lands adjacent to the Otay River valley at the southern boundary of the City and a line 310 feet west of Date Street from its MONTGOMERY PLANNING 6 COMMITTEE MINUTES March 7, 1990 City-adopted County zone classifications to City classifications utilized throughout Chula Vista. The proposed specific rezonings and their precise territorial limits are depicted on the attached Exhibit "A" Zoning and Implementation Consultant Lettieri made a presentation stating that the purpose of the hearing was to implement the Montgomery Specific Plan by the rezoning of Broderick's Otay Acres Subcommunity from the City-adopted County zoning to City zoning classifications. These are: C36 to R-2-P; RVl5 to R-2-P; and A70 to which no change is proposed at this time. Factors supporting the rezonings are that (1) These changes would implement the Montgomery Specific Plan; (2) the rezonings would continue to allow the type of single family and duplex developments as exist in the area today while the precise plan modifier will allow for discretionary review of projects prior to building permits; (3) deferment of zoning in the Special Study Areas will permit consid- eration of the needs and possibilities of a regional park and open space lands for the area; and (4) the proposed zone amendments are the best attempt to convert City-adopted County zoning to equivalent City zoning without adversely impacting development capability of the properties. Mr. Lettieri noted that a petition had been received asking that the zone be converted to R-1-P instead of R-2-P. Staff has no objections in that R-1-P or R-1-5-P is also consistent with the Montgomery Specific Plan. In reply to Member Creveling's question if there had been any changes in the density since 1985, Principal Planner Pass replied that the zoning came into the area in 1965 at R-1-A. The City put it in the Industrial General Plan designation. During the latest survey, it was found that the area had much improved since the original survey in 1974. When staff first met with the residents 3 years ago, a higher density was requested. The majority now talk about R-1-P. This being the time and the place as advertised, the public hearing was opened. MONTGOMERY PLANNING 7 COMMITTEE MINUTES March 7. 199~ Rudy E. Ramirez, 310 Palm Ave., CV, 92011, representing 330, 334 and 347 Palm Avenue, spoke in support of the proposal. He favored R-2-P zoning. Art Pino, 336 Palm Ave., CV 92011, said he represented several people, and was of the opinion that the R-2-P zoning would destroy the neighborhood. He said the owners did not want increased traffic and would like even less density. He objected to rental units which might have five to six people in residence, parking cars in front of his home, taking no interest in their homes and the possibility of crime increase brought about by overcrowding. Mr. Pino spoke against absentee landlords who are only interested in the money from rentals and not the good of the neighborhood. The residents do not want to live in a high density neighborhood. He favors R-1-5-P Patrick Masi, 4001 Valley, CV, 92011, said they were building a home for their retirement. He reiterated Mr. Pinos' statements regarding renters, overcrowding, and emphasized the difficulty in evicting undesirable renters and the prevalence of crime in the area. Mr. Masi contended that the RV-15 was never done legally and could be challenged. He asked why the construction of "cracker boxes" on Palm Avenue had been permitted. He stressed that no more rentals were needed and that he favored R-1-5-P. Mr. Pass said he was pleased with Mr. Masi's presentation from the staff's stand point, however, the County did rezone to RV-15. He indicated that R-1-5-P would keep the "cracker boxes" out of the area. Diane Rosenthal, 279 Palm Ave., CV 92011, said she is in favor of R-2-P. She asked, since it is already R-1-P on all the lots that have been subdivided, if the owners can proceed and build if the permits have been already secured? Mr. Pass replied that what can be built is R-2-P which equates to 1 du/3500 net sq. ft. or R-1-5-P which is 1 du/5000 net sq. ft. If less density is desired, the R-1-5-P is the answer. He added that the area can still be preserved with a semi-rural atmosphere. MONTGOMERY PLANNING 8 COMMITTEE MINUTES March 7, 1990 Carl Davidson of 467 Second Ave., Chula Vista, 92010, representing Ruth and Jim Childs, 224 Palm, CV, whose property has been divided into three lots. The R-2-P allows for the cost of improvements. When subdivided, anything less than that requires public improvements, fire hydrants, a 34-foot wide driveway back to the unit and a two-car garage for each unit. He asked if a moratori'um could be placed on the R-2-P and the R-1-5-P in the area until consideration by City Council. Mr. Pass replied that the Committee could so recommend but by the time the moratorium is commenced, the action would be to the Council. No one else wishing to speak, the public hearing was closed. Mr. Creveling asked for a show of hands in favor of the two proposals. The result was R-1-5-P = 10; R-2-P = 7. Mr. Pass pointed out that the 34-foot driveway is only when serving duplexes, not single family residences. Member Palmer reminded the audience that their active participation would be needed when the item proceeded to the Planning Commission and to City Council. MSUC that based on the Initial Studies and com- ments on the Initial Studies and Negative Declarations, to find that this reclassification will have no significant environmental impact and readopt the Negative Declarations issued on IS-88-4M and IS-88-65M for the Montgomery Specific Plan. [ (Palmer/McFarlin) 6-0] MSUC to change staff's recommendation from R-2-P to R-1-5-P including changing C36 to R-1-5-p [ (Castro/Palmer) 6-0] 4. INFORMATION ITEM Proposed amendment to the Municipal Code regarding nonconforming sign abatement, and transfer of the initial authority on sign design issues from the Planning Commission to the Design Review Committee Patrick , ,ynthia Nasi 4001 Valley Ave., Chula Vista, Ca., 92011-6201, L~arch 05, 1990; Ass. Planner, City of Chula Vista, Prank J. Herrera, De~ Pranlr ~ Per our conversation of Jan. 24, herewith is approximate text of letter/flyer we are distributing & explaining to all residents of Broderick's Otay Acres. There are very few open, undeveloped parcels of land left in our area; so why would we want to rezone the area to a denser level??? Non owner-occupied housing (rentals) traditionally increases motor- vehicle traffic volume more than owner-occupied. Chula Vista is forcing rental-type development in our area by high development costs & the fore-noted rezoning. There are not enough open parcels & developers to finance the ambitious street/road projects proposed for Date & Palms so why push the High-density zoning other than to INCREASE tax revenue to the City????? If the r~.n~uing parcels are zoned at a level of 4 single-family dwellings per acre, we will have nicer-looking homes and a better community area to live in: AND the proposed street/r~ad plan won't have to be as flamboyant. The entire proposal ~.a~Jzs of the Chicken & Egg syndrome. The Planning Commission proposal will (eventually) widen Date & Palm; but in the meantime; more than quadruple the traffic volume: - - - AND in the long term, leave US with an untenable rental and drug-related situation. In other States, Counties, & Countries; roadside ditches are enclosed with concrete culverts, covered over, used for adjacent housing storm-drains, and streets are o~ly wide as necessary; which also reduces maintenance costs. Conde~u~t~ street-side property, taking away part of resident's front yards,, leaving only tiny personal yard areas, with homes J~mmed up to the roadway, is not going to enhance the area, only leave a situation s~m~lar to that in some European cities, and do nothing for the Homeowner. Why not access the proposed 0ray P~iver '~Park" by Mase Street?? - - we don't need the heavy traffic problems, speeding, and littering on either Date or Palm: this is a residential area and doesn't*a Park Blvd. running thru' it. The current pa~king problem on Pe~m is Largely due to irresponsible Drivers, (not lack of roadway) many double-parking opposite lane-direction, and a complete lack of standard by-law enforcement by our Police Dent. Makt~ the roadway wider than necessary is like constructing Jails for yet~-unborm citizens. In Conelusion, the denser rezo~tng does nothing for the residents except increase motor-vehicular traffic, run-down shabby housing, AND as modern history has proven; the proliferation of drug trafficking and CRIME. *NEED Respectfully, We Remain, Yours Very Truly. Patrick & Cynthia Masi. (619) 425-8018. We the residents and homeowners of Broderick acres are petition- ing the Montgomery Plannins Committee and Chula Vista City ccuncit tc zone our area tc R-1-5 instead cf the proposed R-2-? because of the destruction R-2-P or other up zoning will cause to our neighborhood. Name Address Phone Signature We the residents and homeowners of Broderick acres are petition- ing the Montgomery Planning ,Committee and Chu!a Vista City council to zone our area to R-1-5 instead cf the proposed R-2~P because of the destruction R-2-? or other up zoning will cause to our neighborhood. Name ! Address Phone Signat~re~ ' , :~ ~ Signature 7. Signature 8. + Signa;urs City Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 1 3. PUBLIC HEARING: PCS-90-10 - Consideration of tentative subdivision map for Tiara at Rancho del Rey, Chula Vista Tract 90-10 - Donald L. Bren Company A. BACKGROUND 1. The applicant has submitted a tentative subdivision map known as Tiara at Rancho del Rey, Chula Vista Tract 90-10, in order to develop an eight-lot condominium project consisting of 138 units on 9.8 acres located on the south side of Ridgeback Road between Del Rey Parkway and Otay Lakes Road. 2. The Planning Commission previously certified EIR-87-1, which includes the entire Rancho del Rey SPA I including the site in question. 3. The project design was approved by the Design Review Committee on March 26, 1990. B. RECOMMENDATION Based on the findings contained in Section "E" of this report, adopt a motion recommending that the City Council approve the tentative subdivision map for Tiara at Rancho del Rey, Chula Vista Tract 90-10, subject to the following conditions: 1. The approval of all final maps by the City Council will require compliance with the City's adopted threshold standards to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning. 2. Prior to the issuance of building permits, the project shall show compliance with the City's Growth Management Element and Program to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning. 3. The developer shall enter into an agreement with the Otay Water District to provide terminal water storage and other major facilities to assure water availability to the project prior to the approval of a final map. 4. PAD and RCT shall be paid except as otherwise modified by the public facilities and financing plan for Rancho del Rey. 5. The subdivider shall provide written evidence of agreement with the Chula Vista City School District regarding the provision of adequate school facilities for the project prior to the approval of a final map. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 2 6. The project shall comply with the plans approved by the Design Review Committee (DRC-90-24). 7. The amount of any fees applicable to the project shall be those in effect at the time they are collected. 8. All streets within the development shall be private. Detailed horizontal and vertical alignment of the center line of said streets shall be reflected on the improvement plans for said developments. Design of said streets shall meet the City standards for private streets. 9. The developer shall grant to the City street tree planting and maintenance easement adjacent to Lot 1 along Ridgeback Road. Said easement shall extend lO feet from the back of the sidewalk. Slopes within the streets' tree easement shall conform to City standards. Slopes greater than 5:1 must be approved by the Director of Planning. lO. Graded access shall be provided to all storm drain structures including inlet and outlet structures as required by the City Engineer. Paved access shall be provided to drainage structures located in the rear yard of any lot. ll. The developer shall submit calculations to demonstrate the adequacy of downstream drainage structures, pipes and inlets as required by the City Engineer. 12. The subject property is within the boundaries of Assessment District 87-1. The developer shall be responsible for all costs associated with reapportionment of assessments as a result of subdivision of lands within the project boundary. The developer shall request said reapportionment and shall provide a deposit to cover the initial costs prior to the approval of the Final Map. 13. A paved access road with a minimum width of 12 feet shall be provided to all sanitary sewer manholes. The roadway shall be designed for an H-20 wheel load or other loading as approved by the City Engineer. 14. The developer shall submit for approval by the City Engineer proposed private streets construction phasing prior to the approval of any Final Map. 15. Off-site cumulative transportation impacts shall be mitigated to insignificant levels by participating in the East Chula Vista Transportation Phasing Plan. 16. The developer shall enter into an agreement whereby the developer agrees that the City may withhold buildings permits for any units in the subject subdivision if traffic on Otay Lakes Road or East 'H' Street exceeds the levels of service identified in the City's adopted thresholds. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 3 17. The developer shall provide access on an equal basis to individual lots for all franchised cable television companies. 18. The Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions shall include provisions assuring maintenance of all streets, driveways and drainage systems which are private. The City of Chula vista shall be named as a party to said Declaration authorizing the City to endorse the terms and conditions of the Declaration in the same manner as any owner within the subdivision. 19. The recreation area ILot 4) shall be constructed with the first phase of development. 20. A minimum lO ft. level width shall be provided between back of sidewalk and property line adjacent to Ridgeback Road. This area plus any additional area between the perimeter wall and back of sidewalk shall be included within an open space maintenance district. 21. The design and configuration of the perimeter landscape area, plus the location, height and materials for any retaining or garden walls or combinations thereof shall be subject to review and approval of the Zoning Administrator and the City Landscape Architect. 22. Fire hydrants are to be installed, tested and fully operational prior to any combustible materials being placed on site. 23. The CC&R's shall contain a disclosure to buyers regarding future construction of above-ground and below-ground facilities planned by SDG&E for the easement. 24. The CC&R's shall contain a prohibition against RV parking within the project as outlined in the Planned Community District regulations. The following are code requirements submitted by the Engineering Department: 1. The developer shall plant trees along all dedicated streets within the subdivision. The species, location and number shall be determined by the City Engineer. 2. The developer shall pay Eastern Area Development Impact Fees prior to issuance of building permits. $. The developer shall pay Traffic Signal Participation Fees in accordance with City Council Policy prior to issuance of building permits. 4. The developer shall pay all applicable sewer fees, including but not limited to Sewer Connection Fees, prior to issuance of building permits. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 4 5. The developer shall comply with all applicable sections of the Chula Vista Municipal Code. Preparation of the Final Map and all plans shall be in accordance with provisions of the Subdivision Map Act, Subdivision Ordinance and the Subdivision Manual of the City of Chula Vista. C. DISCUSSION The property consists of two separate sites bisected by the 250 ft.-wide SDG&E easement. The RdR SPA I Plan designates the sites for multiple family development at a target density of 15.2 and 15.3 du/ac and a maximum yield of 143 units. Bonita Vista Junior High School is located to the north, small-lot single family to the west, a 94-unit apartment complex to the east, and the RdR Community Park site to the south. The project involves a total of 138 two-story townhouse units in three and five-unit structures -- 55 units on 3.7 acres westerly of the easement, and 83 units on 6.1 acres easterly of the easement. Each site has a single access point from Ridgeback Road, with private streets providing access to a total of 318 parking spaces -- 255 enclosed garage spaces, and 63 open parking spaces distributed in bays along the interior street system. Common open space areas are distributed throughout the project, with an extensive system of pedestrian pathways within and between the two sites. A common recreation area on the easterly site contains a swimming pool, SPA and cabana. Each dwelling unit also has a private fenced patio area averaging 100 sq. ft. in area. The SDG&E easement will contain a trails system which connects to the Community Park and the trails systems to the west. The applicant has proposed the following street names: Street A Callejon Espana Street B Callejon Montefrio Street C Callejon Palacios Street D Callejon Segovia Street E Callejon Alhambra Street F Callejon Malaga Street G Callejon Carbon Street H Callejon Ciudad Street I Callejon Cervantes Street J Callejon Andalusia D. FINDINGS: Pursuant to Section 66473.5 of the Subdivision Map Act, the tentative subdivision map for Tiara at Rancho del Rey, Chula Vista Tract 90-10, is found to be in conformance with the various elements of the City's General Plan based on the following: City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 5 1. The site is physically suitable for residential development and the proposal conforms to all standards established by the City for such projects. 2. The design of the subdivision will not affect the existing improvements -- streets, sewers, etc. -- which have been designed to avoid any serious problems. 3. The project is in substantial conformance with the Chula Vista General Plan Elements as follows: a. Land Use - The residential type and density proposed is consistent with the adopted RdR SPA I Plan. b. Circulation - Circulation consists of private streets consistent with City standards. c. Housing - The project will provide an attached townhouse product as one of several housing alternatives within the RdR community. d. Conservation - The conservation of major land forms and environmentally sensitive areas was addressed by the ERdR Specific Plan and RdR SPA Plan. The project is consistent with those plans. e. Park and Recreation, Open Space - The overall park/recreation/open space program has been established by the ERdR and RdR Plans. f. Seismic Safety - Mitigation measures relating to slope stability and grading identified in the environmental document for the SPA Plan have been incorporated into the project. g. Safety The project will be within existing or proposed response times of all public safety agencies. Compliance with the City's threshold standards will have to be shown prior to approval of final maps. h. Noise All dwellings will be designed so as not to exceed interior noise levels of 45 dBA. i. Scenic Highway - The project is not adjacent to a Scenic Route. j. Bicycle Routes All of the major roads within RdR have been designed to accommodate bicycle travel. k. Public Buildings - The RdR, Public Facilities and Financing Plan include provisions for the dedication and improvement and/or contributions for various public facilities including school sites, parks, fire facilities and libraries. City Planning Commission Agenda Items for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 6 4. Pursuant to Section 66412.2 of the Subdivision Map Act, the Commission certifies that it has considered the effect of this approval on the housing needs of the region and has balanced those needs against the public service needs of the residents of the City and the available fiscal and environmental resources. 5. To the extent feasible, structures have been sized and sited in a manner to provide for passive or natural heating and cooling opportunities. WPC 7647P/OOllY PROJECT ARE,~ q~. R.D.R. OOMMUNIT¥ TENTATIVE MAP CHULA VISTA TRACT NO. 90-10 TIARA AT RANCHO DEL REY SITE PLAN CHULA VISTA TRACT N0.90-10 TIARA AT RANCHO DEL REY Appendix C ~ CITY OF £HULA VISTA DISCLOSURE STATEI~NT IAPPLICANT'S STATEMENT OF DISCLOSURE OF CERTAIN OWNERSHIP INTERESTS ON ALL APPLICATIONS WHICH WILL REQUIRE DISCRETIONARY ACTION ON THE PART OF THE CITY COUNCIL, PLANNING COMMISSION AND ALL OTHER OFFICIAL BODIES. The following information must be disclosed: 1. List the names of all persons having a financial interest in the application. List the names of all persons having any ownership interest in the property involved. 2. If any person identified pursuant to (1) above is a corporation or partnership, list the names of all individuals owning more than 10% of the shares in the corporation or owning any partnership interest in the partnership. 3. If any person identified pursuant to (1) above is a non-profit organization or a trust, list the names of any person serving as director of the non-profit organization or as trustee or beneficiary or trustor of the trust. 4. Have you had more than $250 worth of business transacted with any member of City staff, Boards, Commissions, Committees and Council within the past twelve months? Yes No ~<[ If yes, please indicate person(s) ~ ~ef~e~as: ."Any i~d?idual, firm,~'~Opartnership, joint venture associa · i~u~d~ cluo, traterna/ organization coroor~tinn ~-~-~ - - · ' Ithis anH ..... '- r .... , :~Ld~e, trust, receiver, syndicate I:~:,~t'J~ an~..O~n~r court:y, c,~y ano County, city, municipality, district LPull~ltdl SUDO1V1SIOn, or any other grou or comb~na ~ - - ,, ...... . P ·nation acting as ~ unit. (NOT~: Attach additional pages as necessary.y) _., ~C'~ ~t-. ~ 0 S~gnat~l~e of app~can~L~te WPC 0701P bI. j i~Li~FVi A-110 Print or type name of applicant City Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 1 4. PUBLIC HEARING: PCA-90-05; Consideration of amendments to Title 19 of the Municipal Code to delete provisions which require rezonings, planned unit developments, precise plans, conditional use permits and variances to be processed within a specified number of da~/s - CitJ~ initiated A. BACKGROUND On February 14, 1990, the Planning Commission voted 7-0 to amend a draft policy on adequate lead time for Commission review of agenda items. The Commission directed staff to return with the amended policy and any necessary Code amendments to implement the policy. The proposed amendments would delete provisions from the Code which require rezonings, planned unit developments, precise plans, conditional use permits and variances to be processed within a specified number of days. The Environmental Review Coordinator has determined that the proposed amendments are exempt from environmental review and are considered a non-significant action per Section 2.4.3.2 of the environmental review procedures of the City of Chula Vista. B. RECOMMENDATION 1. Adopt Resolution PCM-90-17 establishing a policy of minimum time frames for consideration of written documents and correspondence considered for action by the Planning Commission. 2. Adopt a motion recommending that the City Council enact the amendments to the Municipal Code contained in Exhibit A. C. DISCUSSION The impetus for these amendments comes not only from the aforementioned Commission policy, but also from recent State legislation regarding the public noticing and review period for environmental documents. On January 1, 1990, two amendments to the California Environmental Quality Act {CEQA) became effective. The first amendment requires that the public review period for Negative Declarations shall not be less than 21 days prior to project consideration {prior to this amendment, a lO-day review period was required). The second amendment requires that a notice of no significant environmental impact {Negative Declaration) be posted with the County Clerk for a period of 30 days prior to the project going before a decision-making body {prior to this amendment, there was no such stipulation). Because of these two amendments, an additional 30 days minimum is required to process projects requiring an Initial (Environmental) Study. City Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 2 Because of the State legislation, the minimum time required to process an application for a project that requires an Initial Study is now 66 days from the date of receipt of the completed Initial Study application to the date it goes before the decision-making body. If the application is incomplete, or if the project raises complicated issues, this processing time may be longer. As a result, the application time frames currently contained in the Municipal Code are no longer valid for projects which require environmental review. The Commission policy requires: (1) all projects and/or reports under consideration by the Planning Commission shall be received by the Planning Commission no later than one (1) week prior to the requested action, and (2) all written communications from project applicants including requested modifications or additions to conditions of approval must be received by the Planning Commission no later than 24 hours prior to the requested action. (Note: The underlined portion represents the amendment to the draft policy requested by the Commission.) This policy will add approximately one week to the current processing time for projects going before the Commission, and is not consistent with the time frames established in the Code regardless of whether or not a project requires environmental review. The proposal is to delete rather than change the time frames currently reflected in the Code. This will allow the Department to respond to new legislation or policies without th? necessity of a Code amendment. The Planning Department's current policy is, and will continue to be, to process all applications in as timely manner as feasible. For comparison purposes, staff contacted several other cities within the County regarding processing time frames. Of the five cities contacted (Escondido, San Marcos, Vista, and the City and County of San Diego) none operate under any specific time frames other than those established by State mandates. The applicable State mandates include the State CEQA Guidelines and the Permit Streamlining Act. Under CEQA, all Negative Declarations must be completed and certified within 105 days (3.5 months) of receipt of completed application. This is followed by the 30-day posting period noted above, for a total of 4.5 months. Under the Permit Streamlining Act, projects that require an EIR must be approved or disapproved within one year of receipt of a completed application, and projects which require a Negative Declaration must be approved or disapproved within 6 months of receipt of a completed application. These mandates do not apply to general plan amendments or rezones. City Planning Commission Agenda Item for Meeting of May 9, 1990 Page 3 As a matter of policy, the Planning Department will attempt to process applications within five weeks. This is consistent with the new Commission policy and will add approximately one week to the existing time frames. For applications that require environmental review, the five-week period will begin upon receipt of proof of posting of the notice of no significant environmental impact at the County Clerk's office. This time frame is based on the average or "straight forward" project and assumes the application, when received, is complete. If the application is incomplete, or raises complicated issues, this timeframe will likely be extended. Attached is the Commission policy, as amended. Exhibit A contains the proposed Code amendments. Also attached are the Commission minutes from the meeting of February 14, 1990. WPC 7450P RESOLUTION NO. PCM-90-17 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA PLANNING COMMISSION ESTABLISHING A POLICY OF MINIMUM TIME FRAMES FOR CONSIDERATION OF WRITTEN DOCUMENTS AND CORRESPONDENCE CONSIDERED FOR ACTION BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION WHEREAS, the Planning Commission directed staff to draft policy language that would provide the Commission with adequate time to review various written documents and correspondence under consideration by the Commission; and WHEREAS, the Commission has determined that projects of major significance, complex issues, or lengthy documents must be in Commissioners' hands a minimum of one week prior to requested action; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission packets are normally assembled in a single mailing format requiring a consistent mailing date for all items; and WHEREAS, any written communication must be in the Commissioners' possession a minimum of 24 hours in advance of a scheduled hearing. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT from facts presented at the Planning Commission meeting of January 24, 1990, and February 14, 1990, that the Planning Commission adopts the following policy and recommends any changes required in the Municipal Code to effectuate this policy. Chula Vista Planning Commission policy regarding receipt of written reports and correspondence shall be as follows: l) All projects and/or reports under consideration by the Planning Commission shall be received by the Planning Commission no later than one (1) week prior to the requested action. 2) All written communication from project applicants, including requested modifications or additions to conditions of approval, must be received by the Planning Commission no later than 24 hours prior to the requested action. PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF CHULA VISTA, CALIFORNIA, this day of , 1990, by the following vote, to-wit: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: Robert E. Tugenberg, Chairman ATTEST: Nancy Ripley, Secretary Planning Commission WPC 7652P EXHIBIT A Chapter 19.12 LEGISLATIVE ZONING PROCEDURE Sections: 19.12.010 Purpose, intent and scope of provisions-Zoning defined. 19.12.020 Authorization for requirements. 19.12.030 Rezoning-Application required-Filing fee. 19.12.040 Setback lines-Establishment and change procedure. 19.12.050 Modifying districts-Establishment or attachment procedure. 19.12.060 Hearings-Required when. 19.12.070 Hearings-Notice required-Methods and additional contents of notice. 19.12.080 Hearings-Notice required-Contents. 19.12.090 Commission-Authorization of actions and determination of restrictiveness of zones. 19.12.100 Commission-Approval actions-Procedure 7%~/)I~I~ 19.12.110 Commission-Denial actions-Appeal procedure. 19.12.120 Attachment of conditions-Public improvements and precise plan requirements. 19.12.130 Interim zoning-Procedure generally-Time limit. 19.12.140 Prezoning-Procedure generally-When effective. 19.12.150 Adopted redevelopment plans. 19.12.100 Commission-Approval actions-Procedure If the application is approved or a more restrictive zone recommended, the commission shall forward its resolution and the application with a report of its findings to the city clerk who shall cause the matter to be set for hearing before the city council in the same manner as required herein for setting a hearing before the planning commission. ¢~l~l~ll/s~ll~lll/bblll~ll/a/ll~lll~ll/d/~/a~/WalllW~l~ ~~l~ll~ll~l~~l~l~l~d~d~l~N~l~%~ ~/~/~/~d~/~d~f~l (Ord. 1212 ~ 1 (part), 1969: prior code ~ 33.1203(1).) Chapter 19.14 ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES, CONDITIONAL USES AND VARIANCES 19.14.090 Conditional use permit-Public hearing procedure-Finding of facts. ~lW//Wubl/i/~/~lW~/,/s4Ye~4//~//s/e/t//W~/J~/~WW~/~/~y~/~/~¢~ ~//~b~y//~aA~/~/~/~)i~//~//~/~t`~l/e~//4/p/p/l~/~bi/j~il/~//~`h/j//~ ~he planning commission or the zoning administrator shall make a written finding which shall specify acts relied upon in rendering said decision and attaching such conditions and safeguards as deemed necessary and desirable not more than ten days following the decision of the commission or the zoning administrator, and shall fully set forth wherein the facts and circumstances fulfill or fail to fulfill the requirements of this section and Section 19.14.080. A copy of this written finding of facts shall be filed with the city clerk, with the director of building and housing, and mailed to the applicant. The decision of the planning commission or zoning administrator shall be final on the eleventh day following its filing in the office of the city clerk, except where appeal is taken as provided herein. (Ord. 1212 § 1 (part), 1969: prior code § 33.1305(B).) 19.14.180 Variance-Public hearing-Procedure-Notice required. A public hearing shall be held by the zoning administrator in the following manner: The zoning administrator shall publish a notice of hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the city not less than five days prior to the date of said hearing. Notice of hearing may also be made, at the option of the zoning administrator or commission, as the case may be, by mail to owners of record of surrounding property within three hundred feet of the property for which said variance is requested. The zoning administrator or the planning commission shall have the discretion to include in notice of hearing on such application notice that the planning commission will consider classification of other than that for which application is made and/or additional properties and/or uses. Failure of owners to receive notice of hearing shall in no way affect the validity of action taken. (Ord. 1212 § 1 (part), 1969: prior code § 33.1308(D).) 19.14.210 Variance-Zoning administrator authority-Notice of action. The zoning administrator ~a~/s//~ may approve said variance or may grant said variance subject to specified conditions or may deny said variance. The zoning administrator shall notify the applicant forthwith of action taken. (Ord. 1212 § 1 (part), 1969: prior code § 33.1308(G).) 19.14.370 Planned unit development-Public hearing-Time-Notice required. A public hearing shall be held by the planning commission and city council as provided herein: )Y A_~_. Such hearing before the city council shall be set for public hearing by the city clerk within twenty days after planning commission action; -2- ¢~ B__~. The secretary of the commission and city clerk shall publish notice of hearings in a newspaper of general circulation in the city not less than ten days prior to the date of said hearings. Failure of owners to receive notice of hearing shall in no way affect the validity of action taken. (Ord. 1500 § 6 (part), 1973: Ord. 1212 § 1 (part), 1969: prior code § 33.1312(A)(4).) 19.14.380 Planned unit development-Planning commission action. 7~l/p~l~$~l~l/sh~ll~¢~l~l~l~~l$~l~lW~ ~l ~l l ~y~/~ l l t~h~la/ I /~ l l~ / l l ~l ~l l /a/Wy/ l l~ddd~W~/ l l ~6~ $ ~ ~6~X In taking action the commission may recommend to the city council denial of a planned unit development, may recommend approval of the planned unit development as submitted, or may recommend approval of a planned unit development subject to additional conditions. Any planned unit development as authorized shall be subject to all conditions imposed, and shall be excepted from other provisions of this chapter only to the extent specified in said permit or shown by an approved plan. (Ord. 1500 § 6 (part), 1973: Ord. 1212 § 1 (part), 1969: prior code § 33.1312(A)(5).) 19.14.573 Precise plan approval-Public hearings. A public hearing shall be held by the planning commission and city council as provided herein: ~. 7~l~a/r~/~l~¢~l/~l~l~l/~¥~v~l~lll/a/e/l~l~l/~l~ ~l A~. The hearing before the city council shall be set by the city clerk within thirty days after planning commission action. ¢~ B_~_. The secretary of the planning commission and city clerk shall publish notice of hearings in a newspaper of general circulation in the city not less than ten days prior to the date of said hearings. Failure of owners to receive notice of hearings shall in no way affect the validity of action taken. Any requested exceptions to the requirements of the underlying zone shall be specified in the public hearing notice. {Ord. 1632 § 2 (part), 1975.) 19.14.574 Precise plan approval-Planning commission action. ~l//Wf~l/fo~C~/~d//d/a/y/s/J//~A~//dv~//~/l~l~//~¢~ In taking action the co~ission may reco~end to the city council denial of a precise plan, approval of the precise plan as submitted, or approval of a precise plan subject to additional conditions. The planning commission may recommend approval if, from the facts presented, the co~ission can make the necessary findings noted in Section 19.14.576. Reco~endation for approval shall require the affirmative vote of not less than a majority of the total membership of the planning commission. Any precise plan, as authorized, shall be subject to all conditions imposed, and shall be excepted from other provisions of this title only to the extent specified in the resolution of approval or shown by an approved plan. {Ord. 1632 ~ 2 (part), 1975.) WPC 7609P -3- PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES -5- February 14, 1990 MSUC (Shipe/Carson) 7-0 to recommend that the City Council change the name of Hermosa Avenue to Fourth Avenue. DIRECTOR'S REPORT 1. Establishment of Policy to Provide Adequate Lead Time for Planning Commission Review of Agenda Items Director of Planning Leiter presented a draft policy to accomplish: l) that the Planning Commission would receive reports on projects at least a week prior to their public hearings; and 2) all written communications to include requested modifications or additions to a project would have to be received by the Commission no later than 24 hours prior to their action. In order for that to occur, staff would need to receive them by the previous Friday. Staff would be getting reports out earlier both to the Commission and to the applicants, and staff will be asking the applicants to get correspondence to staff and to the Commission earlier so the Commissioners would have a chance to look at it before the hearings. Mr. Leiter said this would require some Code amendments since it would require some changes to requirements for time frames for processing. He said if the Commission agreed, staff would proceed and bring that back at the next meeting. Commissioner Cannon said he was concerned that the public would not have ample time to get information to the Commission. He was not concerned with the applicant, who should have had ample time prior to the meeting. Chairman Tugenberg expressed his dissatisfaction with receiving a large amount of material just before the meeting, as had been the case recently, and not having time to review it. Planning Director Leiter explained that the drafted policy was oriented mainly toward the applicants. He said the the Commission may wish to change the draft policy wording to say "written communications from the applicant" instead of saying "all communications." Commissioner Cannon concurred with that approach. Planning Director Leiter asked for direction from the Commission as to whether to come back with the change and the Code amendments that ~ould accompany it. MSUC (Cannon/Carson) 7-0 to ask staff to make the change in the draft policy and bring back the policy and the Code amendments that would accompany it. Mr. Leiter directed the Commission's attention to a notice regarding the Planning Commissioners' Institute and for them to let staff know if anyone was interested in attending.