R 4030RESOLUTION NO. 4030
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARROYO GRANDE TAKING THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA) WITH RESPECT TO THE NEWSOM
SPRINGS REGIONAL DRAINAGE PLAN PROJECT: 1)
CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT; 2) ADOPTING ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS; AND
(3) ADOPTING A MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM
WHEREAS, on October 10, 2006 the City formulated a Project Description for the
Newsom Springs Regional Drainage Plan ("Project"); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") (Public
Resources Code Section 21000 et sec.) and the State CEQA Guidelines (14 Cal. Code
Regs. Section 15000 et sec.), the City is lead agency for the Project as the public
agency with both general governmental powers and the principle responsibility for
discretionary approvals related to the Project; and
WHEREAS, the City acting as lead agency, prepared a Final Environmental Impact
Report ("FEIR") pursuant to CEQA in order to analyze all potential adverse
environmental impacts of Project implementation; and
WHEREAS, all requirements of CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines have been
satisfied by the City for the FEIR, which is sufficiently detailed so that all of the potentially
significant environmental effects of the Project have been evaluated properly, focusing
on broad policy alternatives and area wide mitigation measures; and
WHEREAS, the FEIR prepared in connection with the Project sufficiently analyzes both
the feasible mitigation measures necessary to avoid or substantially lessen the Project's
potential environmental impacts and a range of feasible alternatives capable of
eliminating or reducing these potential effects in accordance with CEQA and the State
CEQA Guidelines; and
WHEREAS, Section 15091 of the State CEQA Guidelines prevents the City from
approving or carrying out a project for which an EIR has been completed that identifies
any significant environmental effects unless the City makes one or more of the following
written finding(s) for each of those significant effects, accompanied by a brief explanation
of the rationale for each finding: (1) changes or alterations have been required in, or
incorporated into, the Project which will avoid or substantially lessen the significant
environmental impact as identified in the FEIR; or (2) such changes or alterations are
within the responsibility and jurisdiction of a public agency other than the City, and that
such changes have been adopted by such other agency, or can and should be adopted
by such other agency; or (3) specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other
RVPUB\TEF~63I994
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 2
considerations make infeasible the mitigation measures or Project alternatives identified
in the FEIR; and
WHEREAS, Public Resources Code section 21081.6 requires the City to prepare and
adopt a mitigation monitoring and reporting program for any project for which mitigation
measures have been imposed to assure compliance with the adopted mitigation
measures; and
WHEREAS, the City spent approximately six months prior to the preparation of the Draft
EIR determining relevant issues and feasible alternatives for consideration in the Draft
EIR; and
WHEREAS, the City consulted with State and local agencies during this period as
required by law; and
WHEREAS, the City conducted a Public Scoping Meeting on January 11, 2007 noticed
to surrounding property owners, agencies and the general public to assist the City in
determining the scope of study for the EIR; and
WHEREAS, a Notice of Preparation of the Draft EIR was published on or about January
29, 2007 inviting additional comments from responsible agencies, other regulatory
agencies, organizations and individuals pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section
15082; and
WHEREAS, two written statements were received by the City in response to the Notice
of Preparation which assisted the City in narrowing the issues and alternatives for
analysis in the Draft EIR; and
WHEREAS, upon publication of the Draft EIR the City initiated a forty five (45) day public
comment period by filing a Notice of Completion with the State Office of Planning and
Research on or about April 23, 2007; and
WHEREAS, during this period, the City consulted with and requested comments from all
responsible and trustee agencies, other regulatory agencies and others pursuant to
State CEQA Guidelines section 15086; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21092, the City also provided a
Notice of Availability of the Draft EIR to all organizations and individuals who had
previously requested such notice, and published the Notice of Availability on or about
April 23, 2007 in a newspaper of general circulation in the Project area. Copies of the
Draft EIR were provided to approximately twelve public agencies and two that responded
to the Notice of Preparation. In addition, the City placed copies of the Draft EIR in the
local Public Library and made copies available for review at the City Hall offices in Arroyo
Grande, California; and
WHEREAS, during and after the official public review period for the Draft EIR, the City
received approximately 13 written comments, all of which the City responded to in the
Final EIR; and
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 3
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on the Draft EIR on May 22,
2007; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21092.5, the City provided
copies of the FEIR, including responses to comments on the Draft EIR, on or about July
13, 2007 and
WHEREAS, all of the findings and conclusions made by the City Council pursuant to this
Resolution in Exhibit "A" are based upon all of the oral and written evidence presented
to it and taken as a whole, and not based solely on the information provided in this
Resolution; and
WHEREAS, environmental impacts identified in the FEIR which the City Council finds
are less than significant and do not require mitigation are described in Exhibit "B"
hereof; and
WHEREAS, environmental impacts identified in the FEIR as potentially significant but
which the City Council finds can be mitigated to a level of less than significance through
the imposition of feasible mitigation measures identified in the FEIR and set forth herein
are described in Exhibit "C" hereof; and
WHEREAS, alternatives to the Project that might eliminate or reduce significant
environmental impacts are described in Exhibit "D" hereof; and
WHEREAS, prior to taking action, the City Council has heard, been presented with,
reviewed and considered all of the information and data in the administrative record for
the Project, including the FEIR, and all oral and written evidence presented to it during
meetings and hearings; and
WHEREAS, the FEIR reflects the independent judgment of the City Council and is
deemed adequate for purposes of making decisions on the merits of the Project; and
WHEREAS, no comments made in the public meeting or public hearing conducted by
the City or any additional information submitted to the City have produced any
substantial new information requiring recirculation or additional environmental review
under CEQA; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the growth-inducing impacts of the Project
considered in the EIR as described below and the State CEQA Guidelines require an
EIR to address the ways a project could be growth-inducing. A project would induce
growth if it fosters economic or population growth or the construction of additional
housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. However, under the
State CEQA Guidelines, growth inducement is not considered necessarily detrimental,
beneficial or of significance to the environment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the Project is determined to not have the potential
to be growth inducing. The storm drainage improvements will reduce flooding to urban
areas downstream in the City. The project would result in the removal of existing
flooding conditions, but would not directly result in these areas being substantially further
developed or subdivided because the areas are generally fully urbanized already.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 4
Whatever further development might arise due to removal of a flood impediment would
be under the planned land uses in the General Plan and would not be considered a
substantial area of unplanned or premature growth; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered and rejected as infeasible the alternatives
identified in the FEIR and described below. CEQA requires that an EIR evaluate a
reasonable range of alternatives to a project, or to the location of the project, which: (1)
offer substantial environmental advantages over the project proposal, and (2) may be
feasibly accomplished in a successful manner within a reasonable period of time
considering the economic, environmental, social and technological factors involved. An
EIR need only evaluate reasonable alternatives to a project which could feasibly attain
most of the project objectives, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives.
In all cases, the consideration of alternatives is to be judged against a "rule of reason"
The lead agency is not required to choose the "environmentally superior" alternative
identified in an EIR if the alternative does not provide substantial advantages over the
proposed project and (1) through the imposition of mitigation measures the
environmental effects of a project can be reduced to an acceptable level, or (2) there are
social, economic, technological or other considerations which make the alternative
infeasible.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Arroyo
Grande does hereby:
1. Certify that the FEIR for the Project has been completed in compliance with the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines and
local procedures adopted by the City pursuant thereto and that the FEIR reflects
the independent judgment and analysis of the City Council, as required by Public
Resources Code Section 21082.1 and Section 15090 of the CEQA Guidelines
based on the findings set forth in Exhibit "A" attached hereto and incorporated
herein.
2. Find that the potential environmental impacts of the Project as described in Exhibit
"B", attached hereto and incorporated herein, are less than significant and,
therefore, do not require the imposition of mitigation measures.
3. Find that mitigation measures have been identified in the FEIR which will avoid or
substantially lessen the potentially significant environmental impacts of the
Project, as described in Exhibit "C" attached hereto and incorporated herein, to a
level of less than significance.
4. Determine that, to the extent that alternatives were not approved or accepted by
the City Council, such alternatives are determined to be infeasible based on
specific economic, environmental, social, technological, legal or other authorized
considerations as described in Exhibit "D" attached hereto and incorporated
herein.
5. Adopt the Mitigation Monitoring Plan attached to this Resolution as Exhibit "E" and
incorporated herein by reference. The mitigation measures contained in the
Mitigation Monitoring Plan are fully enforceable as conditions of Project approval.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 5
6. The Recitals and findings above are true and correct and are incorporated herein
by this reference.
On motion of Council Member Guthrie, seconded by Council Member Arnold, and on the
following roll call vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Members Guthrie, Amold, Costello, Fellows, and Mayor Ferrara
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
the foregoing Resolution was passed and adopted this 24"' day of July 2007.
RESOLUTION NO. `'ro3~
PAGE 6
ATTEST:
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
STEV ADAMS, CITY MANAGER
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
~~~~ ~ ~-
TIM HY J. C EL, CITY ATTORNEY
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 7
EXHIBIT "A"
FEIR FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS
A. Findings. The City Council certifies the FEIR based on the following findings:
1. The following potential environmental impacts of the Project are less than
significant and, therefore, do not require the imposition of mitigation
measures:
a. Flooding (Impact B5)
b. Biological Resources (Impact C1 and C2)
c. Cultural Resources (Impact D2)
d. Aesthetics
e. Air Quality
f. Geology and Soils
g. Hazards and Hazardous Materials
h. Land Use and Planning
i. Mineral Resources
j. Noise
k. Population and Housing
I. Public Services
m. Recreation
n. Transportation and Traffic
o. Utilities and Service Systems
2. Mitigation measures have been identified in the FEIR and have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Project, which will avoid or
substantially lessen the following potentially significant environmental
impacts to a level of less than significance:
a. Agricultural Resources (Impacts/ Mitigation Measures A1, A2, A3
and A4)
b. Flooding (Impacts/ Mitigation Measure B1, B2, B3, B4 and B6)
c. Biological Resources (Impact/Mitigation Measures C3, C4, C5 and
C6)
d. Cultural Resource (Impact /Mitigation D1)
3. The City Council has considered and rejected as infeasible the alternatives
identified in the FEIR (FEIR, Section V) and Section IV of this Resolution.
4. The City Council has considered and adopted the Mitigation Monitoring
Plan provided in Section VI attachment as Exhibit A of this Resolution, and
the mitigation measures contained in the Mitigation Monitoring Plan are
fully enforceable as conditions of project approval.
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 8
5. The FEIR was presented to the City Council, and the Council has reviewed
and considered the information contained in the FEIR prior to its approval
of the Project.
6. The City Council has determined that the FEIR is an accurate and objective
statement that has been completed in compliance with CEQA.
7. The City Council has determined that the FEIR reflects the Council's
independent judgment and analysis.
8. No "significant new information," as defined by CEQA and the State CEQA
Guidelines, has been added to the FEIR after circulation and review of the
Draft EIR that would require recirculation; and
9. The documents and other materials which constitute the record of
proceedings upon which these Findings have been based are located at
the City of Arroyo Grande Development Department 214 East Branch
Street, Arroyo Grande California, 93420. The custodian for these records
is the Director of Community Development. This information is provided in
compliance with Public Resources Code section 21081.6.
10. All significant environmental impacts from implementation of the Project
have been identified in the FEIR and, with implementation of the mitigation
measures identified, will be mitigated to a level of insignificance.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 9
EXHIBIT "B"
POTENTIAL PROJECT IMPACTS THAT ARE LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT AND DO
NOT NEED MITIGATION
A. Flooding and Water Quality.
Impact B5: The discharge of Newsom Springs watershed runoff at the proposed ouffall
point on Arroyo Grande Creek has been determined by hydrologic modeling to be in
advance of the watershed peak flow in Arroyo Grande Creek at the critical downstream
location, and therefore would have a less than significant effect on cumulative flood
conditions
B. Biological Resources
Impact C1: Implementation of the proposed project would result in the temporary and
permanent loss of small areas of cropland habitat. This is considered to be a less than
significant impact.
Impact C2: Implementation of the proposed project and project alternatives would result
in the diversion of flows from the base of Newsom Canyon or the Branch Mill Road stone
culvert to an Arroyo Grande Creek ouffall location. This is considered to be a less than
significant impact.
C. Cultural Resources.
Impact D2: A number of potentially significant historic resources were encountered
within the project boundaries. If the final NSRDP plans encroach on these the City shall
conduct further archival and physical investigation of these resources to determine their
significance and integrity. These resources are at varying levels of risk of being
negatively impacted by the proposed project, however based on the current project
description it appears the Project's effects on these will be less than significant.
D. Other Effects found to be less than significant.
Water Resources- The proposed drainage plan does not involve the use of local water
supply. Therefore, no impact on water supply would result, and mitigation is not
required.
The proposed project would not alter the flow of surface waters in a manner that
would substantially affect groundwater recharge that occurs now. Storm waters would
be directed to Arroyo Grande creek at a point about one mile upstream of the point the
waters currently enter the creek, however, these periodic flood stage volumes do not
comprise a significant source of groundwater recharge.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 10
Public Services- As proposed, the project would not result in the necessity for public
services such that new or physically altered governmental facilities would be required.
Therefore, the project's impacts on public facilities would be less than significant and
no mitigation would be required.
Housing- The project would not involve the loss of existing affordable dwelling or the
displacement of residences. No impacts on housing are identified.
Recreation- The proposed project does not involve the construction of new homes or
businesses nor does the project propose to extend existing roads or water and sewer
infrastructure. The project would not cause significant numbers of people to visit local
recreational facilities. The impact to existing City parks would be less than significant
and no mitigation is required.
Energy- The scale of the project is not large enough to significantly affect energy
demand or require the development of new energy sources.
Fire Protection-The site is not designated by the Fire Department as a High Fire
Hazard area. The project does not involve the construction of habitable structures;
therefore, the project would not result in the endangerment of human lives in the event
of a fire emergency. In addition, most structures entailed are subsurface and would
not be threatened in the event of a wildland fire. The project has no impact on fire
protection and no mitigation is required.
Hazards- Due to the type of uses contemplated and the scope of the project, the
project does not have potential to significantly affect land, water, air or public safety
due to a release of hazardous substances.
Noise- Future development of the single-family residences and access road could
create some temporary noise conditions within 800 feet of construction equipment that
may exceed State Model Noise Ordinance noise thresholds for construction noise.
There are no noise generating components proposed in the project design. The
operational uses of the drainage improvements would not generate substantial noise
increases since the project would not attract people or traffic. During the construction
phase of the proposed project, significant noise increases may occur. The proposed
project would adhere to Municipal Code 9.16.030 E, which states, "Noise sources
associated with construction (would be exempt if) such activities do not take place
before seven (7) a.m. or after ten (10) p.m. or any day except Saturday or Sunday, or
before eight a.m. or after five p.m. on Saturday or Sunday." All projects in the city are
subject to this ordinance and adherence would result in a less than significant impact
on noise.
Air Quality- The proposed project will not have any operational effects on air quality
due to vehicle or equipment emissions. Neither will the project produce odors or
contribute to any air quality standard violation.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 11
Construction of the proposed drainage improvements will involve ground disturbance
that will create the potential for dust (PM' ). The City has a standard requirement for all
grading plans to implement dust control measures adopted by the City and derived from
San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District guidelines. Implementing this
requirement would ensure project related PM10 emissions would not exceed CEQA
thresholds. The project would have a less than significant impact on Air Quality and no
mitigation would be necessary.
Visual Resources- The proposed drainage improvements are generally subsurface
or consist of low profile inlet structures and ditches, which taken together, would not
significantly alter the visual character of the area. In addition, no lighting is proposed
as part of the project. Project impacts would be considered less than significant and
no mitigation would be necessary.
Traffic-The proposed drainage improvements are generally subsurface or consist of low
profile inlet structures and ditches, which as proposed, would not significantly alter
existing streets and roadways, and therefore, would not interfere with emergency
access, parking capacity or adopted policies or plans involving alternative
transportation. The project does not involve any traffic producing activity capable of
impacting level of service ratios or air traffic patterns.
During construction the movement of heavy equipment and materials would be on
public streets and would not create a safety of traffic congestion problem. The
movement of these on farmlands would be subject to negotiations and easement terms
with the affected farm operators and landowners. Therefore, the project would have a
less than significant impact on traffic and no mitigation is required.
Geology and Soils-The effects on soils are discussed in sections IV-A Agricultural
Resources and IV-B Flooding Hydrology and Sedimentation. The project is located in an
area that could be subject to liquefaction and soil subsidence, however, the nature of
the drainage improvements would not place these at risk and standard engineering
practices can assure the improvements would remain intact in a seismic event. There
are no geologic formations that could pose a hazard or constraint within the project
area.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 12
EXHIBIT "C"
A.
POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS THAT CAN BE
MITIGATED
Agricultural Resources.
Potential Significant Imoacts.
Impact A1: Construction activities to place stormdrain pipes could result in
the displacement of prime topsoil with subsoils of lesser productivity on the
surface. This would be a significant adverse impact on agricultural
resources.
Impact A2: Construction of subsurface storm drain pipes could
permanently disrupt and adversely affect farming operations if the pipe is
less than 36 inches deep and/or the pipe placement disrupts existing
subsurface drains in the fields that are needed to lower the water table.
This would be a significant adverse impact on agricultural resources.
Impact A3: Construction of a new drainage channel along Branch Mill
Road to carry a 100 year storm water volume would require conversion of
1.34 acres of prime farmland. This effect is considered a significant impact
on agricultural resources under City policy Ag1-4.1 because the magnitude
of the loss of farmland exceeds the intent of the policy exception for
drainage improvements on prime farmland.
Impact A4: The conversion of up to 2.2 acres of prime agricultural land for
use as a detention/sedimentation basin is a significant impact on
agricultural resources under City policy Ag1-4.1 because the magnitude of
the loss of farmland exceeds the intent of the policy exception for drainage
improvements on prime farmland.
2. Findings. Impact A1, A2, A3 and A4 will be reduced to a level of less than
significant with the imposition of the following mitigation measures:
Mitigation Measure A1: To mitigate adverse effects on prime soils, the
construction of storm drain pipes shall be required to excavate and
stockpile the topsoil layer approximately 18 to 24 inches deep and replace
the soil at the correct bulk density on the surface after pipe placement. The
depth of excavation and stockpile for each mapped soil type shall be
determined in the field prior to construction by test pits exposing the soil
profile. A qualified soil scientist, agronomist or agricultural expert shall
confirm the depth of topsoil prior to commencing with construction. All
disturbed farm roads shall also be restored to originally condition.
Supporting Explanation A1: The topsoil layer on the affected agricultural
lands will be set aside in stockpiles and replaced at the correct bulk density
on the surface after pipe placement. A qualified soil scientist, agronomist or
agricultural expert shall confirm the depth of topsoil prior to construction, so
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 13
the prime topsoil would be separated from subsoils of lesser productivity
within the soil profile. Implementation of this mitigation measure would
ensure that prime topsoil would not be displaced with subsoils of lesser
productivity on the surface.
Mitigation Measure A2: To mitigate potential adverse effects on existing
and future farming operations, storm drain pipes in prime farmland shall
have a minimum of 36 inches of soil cover to allow deep ripping. Any
existing subsurface drain pipes in the farmed areas shall be located prior to
storm drain design and construction and reconfigured as necessary to
maintain the function of lowering the water table seasonally.
Supporting Explanation A2: This is standard mitigation to maintain the
ability to deeply rip soil. By maintaining a minimum of 36 inches of soil
cover, storm drainpipes would be deep enough to allow deep ripping of
topsoil.
Mitigation Measure A3: To mitigate significant impacts due to loss of
prime farmland, capacity enlargements to convey storm water from the
Branch Mill culvert to the new inlet structure on Branch Mill (at the stone
culvert) shall either be a subsurface storm drain pipe or an alternative
alignment of this storm drain pipe (as described in Sections I and V of the
EIR), subject to Mitigation measures Al and A2, designed so that no net
loss of existing farmed land occurs.
Supporting Explanation A3: By requiring the inlet structure be placed 36
inches beneath the surface (see Mitigation Measure A2), future farming
operations on this areas would be maintained and no net loss of existing
farmed land would occur.
Mitigation Measure A4: To mitigate the loss of up to 2.2 acres of prime
farmland resulting from storm water basin construction, locate the basin
higher in the watershed in areas of non-prime land soils, or if infeasible due
to conflicts with Agricultural Preserve contracts on upstream properties,
size the NSRDP storm water conveyances to avoid the need for a basin.
Supporting Explanation A4: The mitigation measure requires that the
conversion of 2.2 acres prime farmland be avoided.
B. Flooding, Hydrology & Water Quality.
1. Potential Significant Impacts.
Impact 61: The following project components have potential to result in an
increase in sediment load discharging to the creek by causing incidental,
operational erosion, a potentially significant impact:
• Expansion of the Branch Mill Road ditch instead of a storm drain pipe
could result in more potential erosion from the ditch
• Pipe inlets and outlets could cause local scouring.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 14
• Outlet from bioswale at Cherry Creek development could cause
scouring in Arroyo Grande Creek.
Impact B2: Construction phase operations will expose soils and have the
potential to cause erosion and sedimentation, a potentially significant
impact.
Impact B3: The proposed stormwater basins may not function adequately
due to high groundwater levels. The southerly basin conflicts with the State
Water Project pipeline. These are significant adverse effects.
Impact B4: Based on hydraulic modeling, storm drain outtall locations
further upstream from the existing gaging station have the potential to
increase flood stage creek levels significantly.
Impact B6: Incorporation of a stormwater detention /sedimentation basin
into the Project could have a beneficial effect by reducing sediment
reaching the creek, but could also have potentially sidgnificant cumulative
impact on flooding downstream at the Highway 1 / 22" Street bridge creek
reach if the basins are not designed to address the appropriate range of
design storms, timing and storm duration.
2. Findings. Impact 61, 62, B3, 64 and B6 will be reduced to a level of less
than significant with the imposition of the following mitigation measures:
Mitigation 61: To reduce potential operational effect in drainage
conveyance that could increase sedimentation to Arroyo Grande Creek, the
design of each project component shall incorporate long term measures to
minimize erosion and outtall scour and implement the Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan required in Mitigation Measure 62.
Supporting Explanation B1: This is standard mitigation to ensure
sedimentation is controlled over time. The mitigation measure requires
implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan, which would
include long term erosion control measures.
Mitigation Measure 62: To reduce potential construction stage
sedimentation impacts, the City shall submit a Notice of Intent to the
Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to obtain a State Water
Resources Control Board General Construction Storm Water Permit. This
shall include preparation and submittal to the RWQCB of aCity-approved
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and Erosion Control Plan
that specifies the implementation of Best Management Practices to avoid
and minimize water quality impacts as required by the Regional Water
Quality Control Board (RWQCB).
Supporting Explanation 62: Obtainment of a State Water Resources
Control Board General Construction Storm Water Permit would ensure
erosion and sedimentation would be minimized to a less than significant
level.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 15
Mitigation Measure B3: To avoid impacts to the State Water Project
pipeline and ensure adequate basin functions, the final site selection and
design of a detention basin shall avoid the State Water Project pipeline
easement. Final design shall include soil investigation to determine
seasonal ground water levels, and if necessary, include design of an above
ground impoundment, (i.e. the basin is surrounded by an embankment).
Supporting Explanation B3: The mitigation measure requires avoidance
of the State Water Project pipeline, therefore the project would result in no
impact on the State Water Project pipeline. Final design of the project
would ensure the proposed stormwater basins would not be impacted by
seasonal ground water levels.
Mitigation Measure 64: To avoid potential significant increases in the
creek flood level, the outlet from the NSRDP facilities shall be located as
shown on DEIR map 3, downstream of the existing Arroyo Grande Creek
gaging station or upstream a distance that provides a uniform distribution of
ouffall water across the channel. Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
shall be per the Tract 2653 CEQA approvals.
Supporting Explanation 64: Locating the NSRDP outlet structure
downstream of the stream gage or upstream a distance that provides a
uniform distribution of outfall water across the channel would ensure the
creek flood level would not be significantly increased and would allow the
County to continue to accurately gage stream levels and flow.
Mitigation Measure Bfi: To mitigate potential adverse cumulative effects
of the discharge of stormwater from the Newsom Springs watershed upon
downstream creek reaches, the design of the proposed stormwater
detention /sedimentation basin shall include detailed hydrologic modeling
and hydrologic calculations to determine the precise design parameters of
the basin and basin discharge system to ensure that the appropriate range
of design storm events, timings and storm duration factors are considered.
The design must demonstrate that the basin would not adversely effect
flood levels in Arroyo Grande Creek at critical downstream reaches and
shall document San Luis Obispo County Public Works Department
concurrence with proposed design features and hydraulic calculations that
ensure there are no significant impacts to downstream creek levels.
Supporting Explanation B6: The measure requires detailed hydrologic
modeling and hydrologic calculations to ensure the stormwater detention /
sedimentation basin would be designed to avoid flooding downstream at
the Highway 1 / 22nd Street bridge creek reach.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 16
C. Biological Resources.
1. Potential Significant Impacts.
Impact C3: Construction of an ouffall structure in Arroyo Grande Creek
and bank repair activities may result in direct impacts on the southwestern
pond turtle and coast range newt in the riparian corridor including injury or
mortality from construction equipment, and from temporary loss of habitat
from construction of the stormwater culverts and outfall structure. This is
considered to be a potentially significant impact.
Impact C4: Construction of an ouffall structure in Arroyo Grande Creek
and bank repair activities may result in direct impacts on nesting resident
and/or migratory birds including raptors as a result of tree removal and
ground disturbing activities that may cause loss of nest sites, reduced nest
site success, and/or potential nest abandonment. The CDFG Code
Sections 3503 and 3503.5 and the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act
(MBTA) of 1918 prohibit the possession and destruction of birds, nests,
and/or their eggs. This is considered to be a potentially significant impact.
Impact C5: Diversion of stormwater flows from the Newsom Springs
drainage at the base of Newsom Canyon or the stone culvert and
construction of the stormwater ouffall structure on the banks of Arroyo
Grande Creek within the riparian habitat may result in the fill of waters of
the U.S. under the Clean Water Act jurisdiction of the Corps and/or result in
the substantial alteration of the bed, bank or channel of the creek under the
jurisdiction of the CDFG. Placement of a diversion structure at the stone
culvert and removal of riparian vegetation and work on the bank of Arroyo
Grande Creek would fall under CDFG jurisdiction. Final design of the stone
culvert diversion structure and Arroyo Grand Creek ouffall structure would
determine if Corps jurisdiction would be impacted (fill below the Ordinary
High Water Mark (OHWM) requiring a permit or authorization from the
Corps pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. This would be
considered a potentially significant impact.
Impact C6: Construction of the stormwater drainage culverts and outfall
structure, and/or bank repair activities on the banks within the riparian
habitat of Arroyo Grande Creek and/or within the channel may result in
the take of the federally listed threatened CRLF and/or steelhead from
direct mortality, harm (habitat modification), or harassment (alteration of
behavior affecting reproduction and survival). Take of a federally listed
species would require a permit or authorization under the provisions of
the federal Endangered Species Act. This would be considered a
potentially significant impact.
2. Finding. Impact C3, C4, C5 and C6 will be reduced to a level of less than
significant with the imposition of the following mitigation measures:
Mitigation Measure C3: Potentially significant impacts on the
southwestern pond turtle and coast range newt would be mitigated to a
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 17
less-than-significant level with implementation of the following mitigation
measure(s).
A qualified biologist shall perform one pre-construction survey for
southwestem pond turtles and coast range newt immediately prior to
initiation of culvert/outfall structure construction and/or bank repair
activities.
Supporting Explanation C3: The pre-construction survey is typical
mitigation for identifying habitat for southwestern pond turtle and coast
range newt. Implementing the survey immediately prior to initiation of
culvert/outfall structure construction and/or bank repair activities would
ensure that these species are avoided to the greatest extent feasible
during construction.
Mitigation Measure C4: Potentially significant impacts on nesting resident
and/or migratory bird species would be mitigated to aless-than-significant
level with implementation of the following mitigation measure(s).
All tree removal shall be limited to the time period of September 15`" to
March1s`, which is considered to be outside the typical breeding season for
birds. If it is not feasible to avoid the bird-nesting season and trees will be
removed between March 1S` and September 1S`, apre-construction survey
for nesting birds shall be pertormed by a qualified biologist. If active birds
nests are located during pre-construction surveys within the project area
subject to tree removal or ground disturbance, the nest site shall be
avoided until the adults and young are no longer reliant on the nest site for
survival as determined by a qualified biologist. If determined necessary by
a qualified biologist, anon-disturbance buffer zone shall be established
around each nest for the duration of the breeding season until such time as
the adults and young are no longer reliant on the nest site for survival as
determined by the qualified biologist.
Supporting Explanation C4: Limiting construction to the time period
outside the typical breeding season is standard mitigation to avoid
impacts on nesting birds. Preconstruction surveys and avoidance of nests
is also standard mitigation if construction during the nesting season
cannot be avoided.
Mitigation Measure C5: Potentially significant impacts on the Newsom
Springs drainage and Arroyo Grande Creek from fill or alteration within
Corps and/or CDFG jurisdiction would be mitigated to a less-than-
significant level with implementation of the following mitigation measure(s).
The City or its designee, shall obtain Clean Water Act regulatory
compliance in the form of a permit from the Corps or written documentation
from the Corps that no permit would be required for diversion of the
Newsom Springs drainage and placement of the culverts and an outfall
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 18
structure on the bank of Arroyo Grande Creek. If southwestern pond turtles
are observed within an area to be disturbed they shall be relocated out of
harms way to the extent feasible by a qualified biologist to an appropriate
area immediately upstream or downstream of the project area within Arroyo
Grande Creek.
Should a permit be required, the City or designee shall implement all the
terms and conditions of the permit to the satisfaction of the Corps. Corps
permits and authorizations require applicants to demonstrate that the
proposed project has been designed and will be implemented in a manner
that avoids and minimizes impacts on aquatic resources. In addition, the
Corps requires compensatory mitigation for unavoidable impacts to achieve
the goal of a no net loss of wetland values and functions. As such,
regulatory compliance would reduce potential impacts on waters of the
U.S. to aless-than-significant level.
The City or designee shall obtain compliance with Section 1602 of the
California Fish and Game Code (Streambed Alteration Agreements) in the
form of a completed Streambed Alteration Agreement or written
documentation from the CDFG that no agreement would be required for
diversion of the Newsom Springs drainage and placement of the culverts
and an outtall structure on the bank of Arroyo Grande Creek. Should an
agreement be required, the City or designee shall implement all the terms
and conditions of the agreement to the satisfaction of the CDFG. The
CDFG Streambed Alteration Agreement process encourages applicants to
demonstrate that the proposed project has been designed and will be
implemented in a manner that avoids and minimizes impacts on riparian
habitat and the stream In addition, CDFG requires compensatory mitigation
for unavoidable impacts on riparian habitat in the form of habitat restoration
of disturbed areas to the extent feasible. As such, regulatory compliance
would reduce potential impacts on waters of the state to a less-than-
significant level. The City or designee shall plan and implement a Riparian
Habitat Restoration and Native Tree Replacement Mitigation and
Monitoring Plan (Restoration Plan) to offset impacts on riparian habitat
resulting from placement of the outtall structure. The Restoration Plan
shall be prepared by a qualified landscape architect and/or restoration
biologist experienced in native habitat restoration. The Restoration Plan
shall be implemented to restore areas disturbed from outtall construction
and placement and within any areas within the dedicated open space 25-
foot creek setback area measured from top of bank or the outside edge of
existing riparian vegetation, whichever is greater on the Cherry Creek
Project site. The Restoration Plan shall include at a minimum a detailed
planting plan for the areas to be restored and enhanced for all disturbed
areas from culvert/outtall construction. The Restoration Plan shall also
include at a minimum the number and location of other native trees
impacted and location of replacement plantings, specific plant species
palette, anon-native species removal plan, success criteria, afve-year
monitoring program, and contingency measures to ensure meeting the
success criteria. The Restoration Plan shall also include an erosion control
plan and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for all disturbed areas within
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 19
the 25-foot creek setback and exposed banks. The erosion control seed
mix for the riparian set-back area shall be composed exclusively of native
species.
Supporting Explanation C5: Compliance with the Army Corps of
Engineers and California Fish and Game permits would ensure potential
impacts to the Corps jurisdiction are adequately mitigated.
Mitigation Measure C-6: Potentially significant impacts on CRLF and/or
steelhead would be mitigated to a less-than-significant level with
implementation of the following mitigation measure(s).
The City or designee shall obtain compliance with the federal
Endangered Species Act for potential impacts on the CRLF in the form of
a take permit/authorization or written documentation from the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service (USFWS) that the proposed project would not result
in take of the CRLF or would otherwise not adversely affect the species.
Should a take permit/authorization be required, or conditions imposed by
the USFWS to ensure that no take would result from the project, the City
shall implement all the terms and conditions of the USFWS permit,
authorization, or recommendations to the satisfaction of the USFWS.
The USFWS can only provide take authorization for projects that
demonstrate the species affected would be left in as good as or better
condition than before the project was implemented. Additionally, the
USFWS cannot authorize any project that would jeopardize the continued
existence of a listed species. As such, regulatory compliance would
reduce potential impacts on the CRLF to aless-than-significant level.
The City or designee shall obtain compliance with the federal
Endangered Species Act for potential impacts on the steelhead in the
form of a take permit/authorization or written documentation from the
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) that the proposed project
would not result in take of the steelhead or would otherwise not adversely
affect the species.
Should a take permit/authorization be required, or conditions imposed by
NMFS to ensure that no take would result from the project, the City or
designee shall implement all the terms and conditions of the NMFS permit,
authorization, or recommendations to the satisfaction of the NMFS. The
NMFS can only provide take authorization for projects that demonstrate the
species affected would be left in as good as or better condition than before
the project was implemented. Additionally, the NMFS cannot authorize any
project that would jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species.
As such, regulatory compliance would reduce potential impacts on the
steelhead to aless-than-significant level.
The City or designee shall ensure consistency with the goals and
objectives of the Arroyo Grande Creek HCP being prepared by San Luis
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 20
Obispo County which are based on flow regime and in-stream
enhancement opportunities for steelhead and CRLF. At a minimum,
construction of the stormwater drainage culverts and outfall structure,
and/or bank repair activities shall be designed and constructed in a manner
that would provide for in-stream habitat enhancement, and not adversely
affect the flow regime of Arroyo Grande Creek or create a barrier to fish
passage, and maintain the County's ability to accurately gage stream flows.
Supporting Explanation C6: Compliance with the federal Endangered
Species Act, National Marine Fisheries Service and associate permits, and
the San Luis Obispo County Arroyo Grande HCP would ensure that
potential impacts to California red legged frogs and steelhead are
adequately mitigated.
D. Cultural Resources.
1. Potential Significant Imaacts.
Impact D1: Three potentially historic resources have been identified within
the areas of proposed drainage improvements of this project. All three are
stone masonry culverts that may have been built during the 1930s,
probably by the WPA or the CCC. At the program level, these structures
are assumed to be potentially significant under CEQA. Removal or
substantial modifications could result in a significant impact on historic
resources.
2. Finding. Impact D1 will be reduced to a level of less than significant with
the imposition of the following mitigation measures:
Mitigation Measure D1: Avoidance is the preferred method when dealing
with cultural resources; where this is determined to not be feasible, further
research and investigation is required to mitigate impacts. If the final
NSRDP drainage improvement plans would result in a removal or
substantial modification to any of the three stone culverts more extensive
archival research shall be conducted on the culverts to determine more
precisely their historic signiflicance and establish appropriate mitigation for
impacts identified.
Supporting Explanation D1: The mitigation measure requires avoidance
or more extensive research to establish appropriate mitigation. At the
program level this is standard adequate mitigation.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 21
EXHIBIT "D"
ALTERNATIVES
The EIR identified the objectives for the Project as:
• Remedy flooding in areas identified in the SWDMP
• Improve runoff water quality as it enters Arroyo Grande Creek
• Remedy existing creek bank erosion sites dependent on the selected storm
drain ouffall point
• Maintain or improve the ongoing viability of existing agricultural operations
and protect prime agricultural soils from certain flood events
A. Alternative 1 -'No Proiect' Alternative.
Description. No project means that the Newsom Springs Regional
Drainage Plan would not be adopted to guide City efforts to remedy
existing flooding and sedimentation problems. The following project
objectives would not be met:
• Remedy flooding in areas identified in the SWDMP
• Improve runoff water quality as it enters Arroyo Grande Creek
• Remedy existing creek bank erosion sites dependent on the
selected stormdrain ouffall point
The drainage improvements associated with Tract 2653 (Cherry Creek)
have separate approvals and adopted CEQA findings, therefore, these
improvements could be constructed without the NSRDP being adopted.
The City's Storm Drainage Master Plan would continue to guide capital
project development to improve identified drainage problems.
With No Project, the upstream drainage improvements would not be part of
a regional plan for drainage and flooding. All the associated adverse, but
mitigable, environmental effects on agricultural resources, biological
resources, cultural resources and flooding and water quality identified in
EIR section IV would be avoided. All the beneficial effects of
implementation of the proposed project components would be deferred,
such as reduced sedimentation, reduced flooding of farm fields, alleviation
of flooding in downstream urban locations, etc.
2. Findin .The City Council finds that the No Project alternative, is infeasible
because it fails to meet Project objectives.
3. Supporting Explanation. Under the 'No Project' Altemative, the Project
would not be adopted nor implemented. The 'No Project' alternative would
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 22
defer remediation of flooding in areas identified in the SWDMP and other
project objectives and beneficial effects.
B. Alternative 2 -Alternative Storm Drain Alignments
Description. Alternative 2 examines the possibility of finding an alternative
storm drain alignment for the proposed Project. The alternative storm drain
pipe alignments are shown on Map 3 in section I of the EIR as components
#10 and #11. These three alignments were selected by the City for
evaluation as alternatives to the Proposed Project component #7 (upgrade
capacity of the existing ditch along Branch Mill Road). These alignments
would entail a storm drain pipe to convey the storm water. The alignments
cross existing farm land.
Alignment #10 has two potential upstream starting points at Branch Mill
Road. Both of these alignments proceed northwest across the fields owned
by Hilo Fuchiwaki. The westerly route crosses a corner of the Dixson
Ranch and then runs across farmland owned by Dennis Miller. The easterly
alignment runs directly northwest, avoiding the Dixson Ranch, and crossing
the Miller property. Both alignments have a single general ouffall point at
the Creek.
Alignment #11 is a generalized concept that runs at a diagonal northwest
across Dixson Ranch to a collection area along East Cherry Avenue
(component #4). The exact angle of alignment could vary depending on the
design of the collection facility at East Cherry (refer to discussion in EIR
sections IV-A and IV-B).
2. Findina. The City Council finds Alternative 2, alternative Storm drain
alignments #10, is not environmentally superior to the proposed project due
to slope constraints to the ouffall point at the creek and effect on flood
levels in the creek, which may result in greater environmental impacts on
flooding and biological resources than the proposed project.
3. Supporting Explanation. Based on the data and design specificity available,
the proposed ouffall location appears environmentally superior to the
alternative storm drain alignments. The alternative alignments may require
a larger pipe due to the flat gradient imposed by topography. This in turn
limits pipe cover to enable an exit point high enough on the creek bank to
avoid scour and backwater effects during flooding.
4. Findina. The City council finds Alternative 2 alignment #11 shown on map 3
of the EIR as functionally and environmentally equivalent to the proposed
project storm drain route #7 and may be considered an alternative route in
the NSRDP.
5. Supporting Explanation
purpose as alignment
utilizes the proposed
environmentally.
. Alternative alignment #11 acheives the same
#7 with similar levels of mitigable impacts and
ouffall location shown to the be superior
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 23
C. Alternative 3 -Alternative storm drain outtall creek ouffall location
1. Descriotion. Alternative 3 is the combined alternative alignment (Alternative
2) and alternative outtall point location shown on alignment 10 as location
#12 on Map 3 in section I of the EIR.
2. Finding. The City Council finds that combined alternative alignment and
ouffall point are considered infeasible alternatives under CEQA because
they result in effects that do not meet the project objectives such as loss of
agricultural productivity, scouring, impaired flood stage function, and
increased impacts on biological resources.
3. Suoaorting Explanation. The alternative ouffall location would require
alternative storm drain alignments that would run along a flatter gradient
than the proposed alignment. The alternative alignments may require a
larger pipe due to the flat gradient imposed by topography. This in turn
limits pipe cover to enable an exit point high enough on the creek bank to
avoid scour and backwater effects during flooding. The ouffall point would
remove more riparian vegetation resulting in potentially greater impacts on
sensitive species, than the proposed project ouffall location.
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 24
Exhibit "E"
NEWSOM SPRINGS REGIONAL DRAINAGE PLAN
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN
Mitigation Measure A1: To mitigate adverse effects on prime soils, the
construction of storm drain pipes shall be required to excavate and stockpile the
topsoil layer approximately 18 to 24 inches deep and replace the soil at the
correct bulk density on the surface after pipe placement. The depth of excavation
and stockpile for each mapped soil type shall be determined in the field prior to
construction by test pits exposing the soil profile. A qualified soil scientist,
agronomist or agricultural expert shall confirm the depth of topsoil prior to
commencing with construction. All disturbed farm roads shall also be restored to
originally condition.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Topsoil layer shall be stockpiled and
replaced to correct depth for each soil type.
2) Contingency Measure: To be determined by monitoring
agronomist, soil scientist or agricultural expert.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City shall require construction
contractor to perform test pits, monitoring and stockpile.
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to and during construction.
5) Monitoring Method: Qualified monitor in the field.
Mitigation Measure A2: To mitigate potential adverse effects on existing and
future farming operations, storm drain pipes in prime farmland shall have a
minimum of 36 inches of soil cover to allow deep ripping. Any existing subsurface
drain pipes in the farmed areas shall be located prior to storm drain design and
construction and reconfigured as necessary to maintain the function of lowering
the water table seasonally.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Storm drain placement shall allow for
continued deep ripping and functioning subdrain system.
2) Contingency Measure: To be determined by design Engineer
in consultation with farmers.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City shall require construction
final plans to reflect measures.
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to and during construction.
5) Monitoring Method: Qualified monitor in the field.
Mitigation Measure A3: To mitigate significant impacts due to loss of prime
farmland, capacity enlargements to convey storm water from the Branch Mill
culvert to the new inlet structure on Branch Mill (at the stone culvert) shall either
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 25
be a subsurface storm drain pipe or an alternative alignment of this storm drain
pipe (as described in Sections I and V of the EIR), subject to Mitigation measures
Al and A2, designed so that no net less of existing farmed land occurs.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Storm drain design shall allow of no
net loss of existing farmed land.
2) Contingency Measure: To be determined by design Engineer
in consultation with farmers.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City shall require construction
final plans to reflect measures.
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to and during construction.
5) Monitoring Method: Qualified monitor in the field.
Mitigation Measure A4: To mitigate the loss of up to 2.2 acres of prime
farmland resulting from storm water basin construction, locate the basin
higher in the watershed in areas of non-prime land soils, or if infeasible
due to conflicts with Agricultural Preserve contracts on upstream
properties, size the NSRDP storm water conveyances to avoid the need
for a basin.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Construct basin on suitable upstream
location.
2) Contingency Measure: Size NSRPD conveyances to avoid
need for basin.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City shall require construction
final plans to reflect measures.
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to and during construction.
5) Monitoring Method: Qualified monitor in the field during
construction
Mitigation B1: To reduce potential operational effect in drainage
conveyance that could increase sedimentation to Arroyo Grande Creek,
the design of each project component shall incorporate long term
measures to minimize erosion and outtall scour and implement the Storm
Water Pollution Prevention Plan required in Mitigation Measure B2.
Mitigation Measure 62: To reduce potential construction stage
sedimentation impacts, the City shall submit a Notice of Intent to the
Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to obtain a State Water
Resources Control Board General Construction Storm Water Permit. This
shall include preparation and submittal to the RWQCB of aCity-approved
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and Erosion Control Plan
that specifies the implementation of Best Management Practices to avoid
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 26
and minimize water quality impacts as required by the Regional Water
Quality Control Board (RWQCB).
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
~~ Implementation Responsibility: Applicant shall submit a copy
of the Notice of Intent to Planning Department.
z~ Contingency Measure: None
s) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande
a~ Implementation Schedule: A copy of the SWPPP must be
maintained on the project site during grading and construction
activities. Prior to approval of Land Use Permits the applicant
shall submit proof of exemption or a copy of the Notice of Intent
and the required SWPPP to Planning and Development
Department.
5) Monitoring Method: The City Engineer shall review
the documentation prior to approval of Land Use
Permits. The City Engineer shall inspect site during
construction for compliance with the SWPPP.
Mitigation Measure 63: To avoid impacts to the State Water Project
pipeline and ensure adequate basin functions, the final site selection and
design of a detention basin shall avoid the State Water Project pipeline
easement. Final design shall include soil investigation to determine
seasonal ground water levels, and if necessary, include design of an
above ground impoundment, (i.e. the basin is surrounded by an
embankment).
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Design specifics to be addressed in
project Preliminary Design Report.
2) Contingency Measure: None
3) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande
4) Implementation Schedule: At the time of development of the
Preliminary Design Report for this component
5) Monitoring Method: City verify during approval process.
Mitigation Measure B4: To avoid potential significant increases in the
creek flood level, the outlet from the NSRDP facilities shall be located as
shown on DEIR map 3, downstream of the existing Arroyo Grande Creek
gaging station or upstream a distance that provides a uniform distribution
of outfall water across the channel.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring shall be per the Tract 2653 CEQA
approvals.
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 27
Mitigation Measure Bti: To mitigate potential adverse cumulative effects
of the discharge of stormwater from the Newsom Springs watershed upon
downstream creek reaches, the design of the proposed stormwater
detention /sedimentation basin shall include detailed hydrologic modeling
and hydrologic calculations to determine the precise design parameters of
the basin and basin discharge system to ensure that the appropriate range
of design storm events, timings and storm duration factors are considered.
The design must demonstrate that the basin would not adversely effect
flood levels in Arroyo Grande Creek at critical downstream reaches and
shall document San Luis Obispo County Public Works Department
concurrence with proposed design features and hydraulic calculations that
ensure there are no significant impacts to downstream creek levels.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Document design features to and
hydrologic calculations that ensure no significant impact on
downstream creek levels. Document San Luis Obispo County
Public Works Department concurrence with proposed design
features and hydraulic calculations that ensure there are no
significant impacts to downstream creek levels.
2) Contingency Measure: As determined by City Engineer.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande Public
Works Department
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to plan approval.
5) Monitoring Method: Subsequent CEQA review for
consistency with the NSRDP FEIR.
Mitigation Measure C3: Potentially significant impacts on the
southwestern pond turtle and coast rang newt would be mitigated to a
less-than-significant level with implementation of the following mitigation
measure(s).
A qualified biologist shall .perform one pre-construction survey for
southwestern pond turtles and coast range newt immediately prior to
initiation of culvert/outfall structure construction and/or bank repair
activities.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: A qualified biologist shall
perform one pre-construction survey for southwestem
pond turtles
2) Contingency Measure: None
3) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande Public
Works Department
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to and during start of
construction.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 28
5) Monitoring Method: Qualified biologist report to City of
Arroyo Grande Public Works Department
Mitigation Measure C4: Potentially significant impacts on nesting resident
and/or migratory bird species would be mitigated to aless-than-significant level
with implementation of the following mitigation measure(s).
All tree removal shall be limited to the time period of September 15~'to March1s`
which is considered to be outside the typical breeding season for birds. If it is not
feasible to avoid the bird-nesting season and trees will be removed between
March 1S` and September 1S`, apre-construction survey for nesting birds shall be
performed by a qualified biologist. If active birds nests are located during pre-
construction surveys within the project area subject to tree removal or ground
disturbance, the nest site shall be avoided until the adults and young are no
longer reliant on the nest site for survival as determined by a qualified biologist. If
determined necessary by a qualified biologist, anon-disturbance buffer zone
shall be established around each nest for the duration of the breeding season
until such time as the adults and young are no longer reliant on the nest site for
survival as determined by the qualified biologist.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: All tree removal shall be limited to the
time period of September 1S`to March1s`
2) Contingency Measure: Pre-construction nesting bird survey
by a qualified biologist if tree removal is planned for March 1St
through September 1S` to ensure no direct impacts on nesting
birds.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande Public
Works Department
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to and during start of
construction.
5) Monitoring Method: Environmental Monitor Report to City
Mitigation Measure C5: Potentially significant impacts on the Newsom Springs
drainage and Arroyo Grande Creek from fill or alteration within Corps and/or
CDFG jurisdiction would be mitigated to a less-than-significant level with
implementation of the following mitigation measure(s).
The City or its designee, shall obtain Clean Water Act regulatory compliance in
the form of a permit from the Corps or written documentation from the Corps that
no permit would be required for diversion of the Newsom Springs drainage and
placement of the culverts and an ouffall structure on the bank of Arroyo Grande
Creek. If southwestern pond turtles are observed within an area to be disturbed
they shall be relocated out of harms way to the extent feasible by a qualified
biologist to an appropriate area immediately upstream or downstream of the
project area within Arroyo Grande Creek.
RESOLUTION NO. 4030
PAGE 29
Should a permit be required, the City or designee shall implement all the terms
and conditions of the permit to the satisfaction of the Corps. Corps permits and
authorizations require applicants to demonstrate that the proposed project has
been designed and will be implemented in a manner that avoids and minimizes
impacts on aquatic resources. In addition, the Corps requires compensatory
mitigation for unavoidable impacts to achieve the goal of a no net loss of wetland
values and functions. As such, regulatory compliance would reduce potential
impacts on waters of the U.S. to aless-than-significant level.
The City or designee shall obtain compliance with Section 1602 of the California
Fish and Game Code (Streambed Alteration Agreements) in the form of a
completed Streambed Alteration Agreement or written documentation from the
CDFG that no agreement would be required for diversion of the Newsom Springs
drainage and placement of the culverts and an outtall structure on the bank of
Arroyo Grande Creek. Should an agreement be required, the City or designee
shall implement all the terms and conditions of the agreement to the satisfaction
of the CDFG. The CDFG Streambed Alteration Agreement process encourages
applicants to demonstrate that the proposed project has been designed and will
be implemented in a manner that avoids and minimizes impacts on riparian
habitat and the stream zone.
In addition, CDFG requires compensatory mitigation for unavoidable impacts on
riparian habitat in the form of habitat restoration of disturbed areas to the extent
feasible. As such, regulatory compliance would reduce potential impacts on
waters of the state to aless-than-significant level. The City or designee shall plan
and implement a Riparian Habitat Restoration and Native Tree Replacement
Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (Restoration Plan) to offset impacts on riparian
habitat resulting from placement of the outtall structure. The Restoration Plan
shall be prepared by a qualified landscape architect and/or restoration biologist
experienced in native habitat restoration. The Restoration Plan shall be
implemented to restore areas disturbed from outtall construction and placement
and within any areas within the dedicated open space 25-foot creek setback area
measured from top of bank or the outside edge of existing riparian vegetation,
whichever is greater on the Cherry Creek Project site. The Restoration Plan shall
include at a minimum a detailed planting plan for the areas to be restored and
enhanced for all disturbed areas from culverUouttall construction. The
Restoration Plan shall also include at a minimum the number and location of
other native trees impacted and location of replacement plantings, specific plant
species palette, anon-native species removal plan, success criteria, afive-year
monitoring program, and contingency measures to ensure meeting the success
criteria. The Restoration Plan shall also include an erosion control plan and Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for all disturbed areas within the 25-foot creek
setback and exposed banks. The erosion control seed mix for the riparian set-
back area shall be composed exclusively of native species.
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 30
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: The City or designee shall obtain
Clean Water Act regulatory compliance in the form of a permit
from the Army Corps. The City shall obtain compliance with
Section 1602 of the California Fish and Game Code (Streambed
Alteration Agreements). The City shall prepare a Restoration
Plan for all disturbed areas.
2) Contingency Measure: None
3) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande Public
Works Department
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to issuance of a grading
permit.
5) Monitoring Method: City review Permits/Authorizations
Mitigation Measure C-6: Potentially significant impacts on CRLF and/or
steelhead would be mitigated to aless-than-significant level with implementation
of the following mitigation measure(s).
The City or designee shall obtain compliance with the federal Endangered
Species Act for potential impacts on the CRLF in the form of a take
permiUauthorization or written documentation from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS) that the proposed project would not result in take of the CRLF
or would otherwise not adversely affect the species. Should a take
permit/authorization be required, or conditions imposed by the USFWS to
ensure that no take would result from the project, the City shall implement all the
terms and conditions of the USFWS permit, authorization, or recommendations
to the satisfaction of the USFWS. The USFWS can only provide take
authorization for projects that demonstrate the species affected would be left in
as good as or better condition than before the project was implemented.
Additionally, the USFWS cannot authorize any project that would jeopardize the
continued existence of a listed species. As such, regulatory compliance would
reduce potential impacts on the CRLF to aless-than-significant level.
The City or designee shall obtain compliance with the federal Endangered
Species Act for potential impacts on the steelhead in the form of a take
permit/authorization or written documentation from the National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS) that the proposed project would not result in take of the
steelhead or would otherwise not adversely affect the species.
Should a take permit/authorization be required, or conditions imposed by NMFS
to ensure that no take would result from the project, the City or designee shall
implement all the terms and conditions of the NMFS permit, authorization, or
recommendations to the satisfaction of the NMFS. The NMFS can only provide
take authorization for projects that demonstrate the species affected would be
left in as good as or better condition than before the project was implemented.
RESOLUTION N0.4030
PAGE 31
Additionally, the NMFS cannot authorize any project that would jeopardize the
continued existence of a listed species. As such, regulatory compliance would
reduce potential impacts on the steelhead to aless-than-significant level.
The City or designee shall ensure consistency with the goals and objectives of
the Arroyo Grande Creek HCP being prepared by San Luis Obispo County
which are based on flow regime and in-stream enhancement opportunities for
steelhead and CRLF. At a minimum, construction of the stormwater drainage
culverts and outfall structure, and/or bank repair activities shall be designed and
constructed in a manner that would provide for in-stream habitat enhancement,
and not adversely affect the flow regime of Arroyo Grande Creek or create a
barrier to fish passage, and maintain the County's ability to accurately gage
stream flows.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: compliance with the federal
Endangered Species Act for CRLF and steelhead. Consistent
with the goals and objectives of the HCP if and when adopted.
2) Contingency Measure: None
3) Implementation Responsibility: City of Arroyo Grande Public
Works Department
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to issuance of a grading
permit.
5) Monitoring Method: City note compliance
Mitigation Measure D1: Avoidance is the preferred method when dealing with
cultural resources; where this is determined to not be feasible, further research
and investigation is required to mitigate impacts. If the final NSRDP drainage
improvement plans would result in a removal or substantial modification to any of
the three stone culverts more extensive archival research shall be conducted on
the culverts to determine more precisely their historic significance and establish
appropriate mitigation for impacts identified.
Mitigation Implementation /Monitoring
1) Performance Standard: Perform historic evaluation and
establish CEQA significance based on the actual level of impact
resulting from final NSRDP plans.
2) Contingency Measure: To be identified by subsequent
analysis.
3) Implementation Responsibility: City Community Development
Department.
4) Implementation Schedule: Prior to construction.
5) Monitoring Method: As defined in subsequent environmental
determination
OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
I, KELLY WETMORE, City Clerk of the City of Arroyo Grande, County of San Luis
Obispo, State of California, do hereby certify under penalty of pery'ury, that the attached
Resolution No. 4030 is a true, full, and correct copy of said Resolution passed and
adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Arroyo Grande on the 24"'
day of Juty 2007.
WITNESS my hand and the Seal of the City of Arroyo Grande affixed this 27'" day of
July 2007.
/„-
KELLY WETM E, CITY CLERK