INITIAL STUDY / ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
CITY OF ORANGE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE
2014 – 2021 Planning Period
GPA 2013-0002
ENV 1834-13
LEAD AGENCY:
City of Orange
Community Development Department
300 East Chapman Avenue
Orange, California 92866
Contact: Mr. Gregory Hastings, Interim Com. Dev. Director
714.744.7220
PREPARED BY:
RBF Consulting
14725 Alton Parkway
Irvine, California 92618
Contact: Mr. Glenn Lajoie, AICP
Ms. Rita Garcia
949.472.3505
November 19, 2013
JN 132849
This document is designed for double-sided printing to conserve natural resources.
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0
Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.0
Project Description ................................................................................................................... 7
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
3.0
Project Location ............................................................................................................. 7
Environmental Setting .................................................................................................... 7
Project Characteristics .................................................................................................. 18
Project Objectives/Goals .............................................................................................. 24
Project Phasing ............................................................................................................. 25
Agreements, Permits, and Approvals ............................................................................ 25
Environmental Checklist Form .............................................................................................. 27
3.1
3.2
3.3
4.0
Statutory Authority and Requirements ........................................................................... 2
CEQA Document Tiering ............................................................................................... 3
Incorporation by Reference............................................................................................. 4
Background .................................................................................................................. 27
Environmental Factors Potentially Affected .................................................................. 28
Lead Agency Determination ......................................................................................... 29
Environmental Analysis .......................................................................................................... 31
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
4.11
4.12
4.13
4.14
4.15
4.16
4.17
4.18
November 2013
Aesthetics ..................................................................................................................... 33
Agriculture and Forestry Resources .............................................................................. 39
Air Quality ................................................................................................................... 41
Biological Resources .................................................................................................... 45
Cultural Resources ....................................................................................................... 53
Geology and Soils ........................................................................................................ 57
Greenhouse Gas Emissions ........................................................................................... 65
Hazards and Hazardous Materials ................................................................................. 67
Hydrology and Water Quality ....................................................................................... 75
Land Use and Planning ................................................................................................. 85
Mineral Resources ........................................................................................................ 87
Noise............................................................................................................................ 89
Population and Housing................................................................................................ 95
Public Services ............................................................................................................. 97
Recreation .................................................................................................................. 103
Transportation and Traffic .......................................................................................... 105
Utilities and Service Systems ...................................................................................... 111
Mandatory Findings of Significance ........................................................................... 117
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Table of Contents
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
TABLE OF CONTENTS [CONTINUED]
5.0
Inventory of General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures ....................................................... 121
6.0
Consultant Recommendation ............................................................................................... 151
7.0
References ............................................................................................................................. 153
8.0
Report Preparation Personnel .............................................................................................. 155
LIST OF TABLES
2-1
General Plan Residential Land Use Designations ................................................................ 11
2-2
Population Estimates and Projections .................................................................................. 13
2-3
Household and Housing Estimates and Projections ............................................................. 14
2-4
RHNA Allocation (2014-2021) ........................................................................................... 17
2-5
Sites Summary.................................................................................................................... 21
2-6
Summary of Housing Forecasts........................................................................................... 23
LIST OF EXHIBITS
2-1
Regional Vicinity.................................................................................................................. 8
2-2
Planning Area ....................................................................................................................... 9
2-3
Housing Sites Map.............................................................................................................. 22
November 2013
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Table of Contents
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
1.0
INTRODUCTION
The City of Orange (City) planning area encompasses approximately 23,800 acres within the
north-central portion of the County of Orange (County). The City of Orange General Plan
(General Plan) is comprised of 11 elements, including the State-mandated housing element. The
City’s Housing Element was last updated in 2010 for the January 1, 2006 through June 30, 2014
planning period or 4th cycle. Consistent with the update cycle for jurisdictions in the Southern
California Association of Governments (SCAG) region, the proposed Housing Element Update,
subject of this Initial Study, is for the October 15, 2013 through October 15, 2021 planning
period or 5th cycle. The 2014-2021 Housing Element (Project) identifies and analyzes existing
and projected housing needs and articulates the City’s official policies for the preservation,
conservation, improvement, and production of housing within the City.
The City of Orange General Plan Program Environmental Impact Report (General Plan PEIR)
(March 2010, SCH # 2006031117) was prepared to consider the potential environmental impacts
that would result from adoption and implementation of the City of Orange 2010 General Plan.
The General Plan PEIR, which included an analysis of an additional 23,478 dwelling units (DU),
was certified in March 2010. Additionally, the City of Orange 2006-2014 Initial Study and
Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) (February 2010) was prepared to consider the
potential environmental impacts that would result from adoption and implementation of the City
of Orange 2006-2014 Housing Element (4th Cycle), which anticipated the development of an
additional 3,965 DU. The IS/MND was certified in April 2010. Copies of the General Plan,
General Plan PEIR, and IS/MND are available for review at the City of Orange Community
Development Department (300 East Chapman Avenue, Orange) and on the City’s website
(http://www.cityoforange.org/depts/commdev/planning/ general_plan.asp).
Pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15168(d), the
General Plan PEIR can be used to simplify the task of preparing environmental documents on
later parts of the program; refer to Section 1.2, CEQA Document Tiering, below. The General
Plan PEIR provides the basis in this Initial Study for determining whether the later activity may
have any significant effects; and be incorporated by reference to deal with regional influences,
secondary effects, cumulative impacts, broad alternatives, and other factors that apply to the
program as a whole.
Following preliminary review of the proposed the 2014-2021 Housing Element Project, the City
of Orange has determined that the Project is subject to CEQA guidelines and regulations. This
Initial Study was prepared to assist the City, as lead agency in making the determinations
required by PRC Section 21094. The Initial Study analyzes whether the Project may cause
significant effects on the environment that were not examined in the General Plan PEIR, the
prior environmental document.
November 2013
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Introduction
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
1.1
STATUTORY AUTHORITY AND REQUIREMENTS
This Initial Study has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) Statutes (Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21000 - 21177) and the CEQA
Guidelines (California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, Sections
15000–15387). The Public Resources Code and CEQA Guidelines discuss the use of “tiering”
environmental impact reports by Lead Agencies. PRC Section 21068.5, Tiering or Tier, defines
this approach as follows:
“Tiering” or “tier” means the coverage of general matters and environmental effects in
an environmental impact report prepared for a policy, plan, program or ordinance
followed by narrower or site-specific environmental impact reports [or negative
declarations] which incorporate by reference the discussion in any prior environmental
impact report and which concentrate on the environmental effects which: (a) are capable
of being mitigated, or (b) were not analyzed as significant effects on the environment in
the prior environmental impact report.
Agencies are encouraged to tier the environmental analyses which they prepare for separate but
related projects including general plans, zoning changes, and development projects. This
approach can eliminate repetitive discussions of the same issues and focus the later Negative
Declaration (or EIR) on the actual issues ripe for decision at each level of environmental review.
Tiering is appropriate when the sequence of analysis is from an EIR prepared for a general plan,
policy, or program to a Negative Declaration (or EIR) for another plan, policy, or program of
lesser scope, or to a site-specific EIR or negative declaration. Tiering does not excuse the lead
agency from adequately analyzing reasonably foreseeable significant environmental effects of
the project and does not justify deferring such analysis to a later tier Negative Declaration (or
EIR). However, the level of detail contained in a first tier EIR need not be greater than that of
the program, plan, policy, or ordinance being analyzed in the second tier.
For purposes of tiering, significant environmental effects have been “adequately addressed” in
the prior EIR if the Lead Agency determines that the significant environmental effects:

Have been mitigated or avoided as a result of the prior EIR and adopted findings in
connection with that prior EIR; or

Have been examined at a sufficient detail in the prior EIR to enable those effects to be
mitigated or avoided by site-specific revisions, the imposition of conditions, or by other
means with the approval of the later project.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15063(d), Contents, specifies that an Initial Study shall contain the
following in brief form:
(1)
A description of the project including the location of the project;
(2)
An identification of the environmental setting;
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Introduction
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
(3)
An identification of environmental effects by use of a checklist, matrix, or other
method, provided that entries on a checklist or other form are briefly explained to
indicate that there is some evidence to support the entries;
(4)
A discussion of ways to mitigate the significant effects identified, if any;
(5)
An examination of whether the project would be consistent with existing zoning, plans,
and other applicable land use controls; and
(6)
The name of the person or persons who prepared or participated in the initial study.
1.2
CEQA DOCUMENT TIERING
The concept of tiering anticipates a multi-tiered approach to preparing environmental documents.
The first-tier EIR covers general issues in a broader program-oriented analysis, including
important program resource and mitigation commitments required to be implemented at the
project-level. Subsequent tiers incorporate by reference the general discussions from the broader
document, concentrating on the issues specific to the proposed action being evaluated (CEQA
Guidelines Section 15152).
Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15152, tiering is appropriate when the sequence of analysis
follows from an EIR prepared for a general plan, policy, or program to an EIR or Negative
Declaration (as appropriate) for a policy or program of lesser scope, or to a site-specific EIR or
Negative Declaration. Therefore, because the prior General Plan PEIR was prepared and
certified for the General Plan, the City has conducted this Initial Study to examine the Housing
Element Update’s potential effects on the environment in the context of the previously certified
General Plan PEIR. Under CEQA, the General Plan PEIR is considered the first tier document
and this Initial Study for the proposed Housing Element Update is considered the second tier
document. While a second tier analysis can rely on a first tier analysis, it also has the obligation
to discuss any changed circumstances or new information that might alter the first tier analysis.
Additionally, under principals of tiering, if a first tier document found significant impacts, then
the second tier environmental document must require implementation of the first tier mitigation
measures unless the analysis explains that the measures are not applicable or that other
mitigation measures can replace the previous measures and similarly reduce the impacts to a
level of insignificance.
This Initial Study was conducted to examine the environmental effects associated with
implementation of the 2014-2021 Housing Element Project. As indicated in Section 3.3, Lead
Agency Determination, as Lead Agency, the City of Orange has determined that although the
Project may have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant
effects have been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR, and avoided/mitigated
pursuant to that earlier document, no further environmental analysis is warranted at this time.
Mitigation measures from the earlier General Plan PEIR that are applicable to the Project are
identified in this Initial Study.
November 2013
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Introduction
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
1.3
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
The following references were utilized during preparation of this initial study, and are
incorporated into this document by reference. These documents are available for review at the
City of Orange Community Development Department (300 East Chapman Avenue, Orange) and
on the City’s website (http://www.cityoforange.org/depts/commdev/planning/general_plan.asp).
East Orange General Plan Environmental Impact Report (State Clearinghouse No. 88110905)
August 1989. The East Orange General Plan [Program] Environmental Impact Report (EOGP
PEIR) addressed the potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed EOGP. The
EOGP study area involved approximately 7,110 acres in unincorporated Orange County, within
the City’s SOI.
Integrated General Plan and Santiago Hills II and East Orange Planned Communities Final
Environmental Impact Report (State Clearinghouse Nos. 1988110905, 2000041122) November
2005. The Integrated General Plan and Santiago Hills II and East Orange Planned Communities
[Program] Environmental Impact Report (SHII/EOPC PEIR) addressed the potential
environmental impacts associated with the proposed Santiago Hills II and East Orange Planned
Community (SHII/EOPC) development project. On November 8, 2005, the City Council
approved the SHII/EOPC Development project, which included certification of the EIR,
approval of the General Plan Amendment for SHII/EOPC, adoption of amendments to the SHII
Planned Community, and initial adoption of the EOPC text.
City of Orange General Plan, Adopted March 2010. The Orange City Council adopted the City
of Orange 2010 General Plan (General Plan) on March 9, 2010. The General Plan is the primary
source of long-range planning and policy direction that is used to guide the City’s growth and
change, and preserve and enhance the community’s quality of life.
General Plan Table LU-2, General Plan Development Capacity, summarizes the land use
distribution and resultant residential and nonresidential development levels expected from full
implementation of the adopted General Plan’s land use policies. According to General Plan
Table LU-2, development in accordance with the adopted General Plan is anticipated to result in
65,680 DU (60,503 DU within City limits), 70 million square feet (SF) of non-residential land
uses (approximately 69.9 million SF within City limits), and a population of approximately
191,715 persons (approximately 175,605 persons within City limits). The General Plan was used
throughout this Initial Study as a source of data.
City of Orange 2006-2014 Housing Element Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration
(SCH # 201001109) February 2010. The City of Orange 2006-2014 Initial Study and Mitigated
Negative Declaration (IS/MND) was prepared to consider the potential environmental impacts
that would result from adoption and implementation of the City of Orange 2006-2014 Housing
Element (4th Cycle), which anticipated the development of an additional 3,965 DU. The
IS/MND was certified in April 2010. It concluded that implementation of the Housing Element
would have less than significant environmental impacts with mitigation measures incorporated.
November 2013
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Introduction
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
City of Orange General Plan Program Environmental Impact Report (SCH # 2006031117)
March 2010. The City of Orange General Plan Program Environmental Impact Report (General
Plan PEIR) provides a program-level analysis of the environmental impacts resulting from
implementation of the proposed 2010 General Plan. The General Plan PEIR’s analysis is based
on the change between development conditions existing in 2004 and those projected for likely
development in accordance with the proposed General Plan by 2030, as well as at theoretical
General Plan buildout. According to General Plan PEIR Table 3-1, development in accordance
with the proposed General Plan was anticipated to result in 66,850 DU (61,685 DU within City
limits), 70.7 million square feet (SF) of non-residential land uses (approximately 70.6 million SF
within City limits), and a population of approximately 194,543 persons (approximately 178,471
persons within City limits). General Plan PEIR Table 3-1 compares this forecast development
capacity to existing (2004) land use conditions, and indicates the General Plan PEIR assumed
and analyzed the environmental impacts resulting from an additional 35.716 million SF of nonresidential land uses and an additional 23,478 DU, with a population growth of approximately
57,844 persons. The General Plan PEIR concluded implementation of the proposed 2010
General Plan would result in the following significant and unavoidable impacts:

Air Quality: Construction-related emissions; operational emissions; conflict with the Air
Quality Management Plan; exposure to toxic air contaminants;

Transportation/Traffic: Substantial
segments/intersections; and

Climate Change: Annual GHG emissions would substantially exceed existing levels,
contributing to the exacerbation of climate change.
increase
in
traffic
on
some
arterial
It is noted, as an outcome of the public hearing process, the City Council adopted the General
Plan subject to certain changes to land use designations on the Land Use Policy Map. These
changes resulted in adjustments that reduced the City’s overall General Plan development
capacity, as compared to the development capacity presented in the proposed General Plan and
evaluated in the General Plan PEIR. Specifically, the changes resulted in the following
adjustments/reductions: -715,000 SF of non-residential land uses; -1,170 DU; and -2,828
persons (refer to General Plan PEIR Table P-2. As such, the General Plan PEIR assumed and
analyzed the environmental impacts at a greater capacity (based on the proposed General Plan)
than what was ultimately adopted by the City Council (adopted General Plan, as described
above). The actual program-level impacts are anticipated to be less intense than concluded in the
General Plan PEIR.
Background and policy information and environmental impact conclusions from the General
Plan PEIR are cited throughout this Initial Study.
City of Orange Municipal Code, as (continuously) updated. The Orange Municipal Code (OMC)
consists of all of the City’s regulatory and penal ordinances, and certain of the administrative
ordinances. The City’s Zoning Ordinance is codified in OMC Title 17, Zoning (Zoning Code).
The Zoning Code is intended to implement the City of Orange General Plan and classify,
November 2013
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Introduction
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
segregate, restrict, designate, regulate and encourage the best type, location and use of buildings,
structures and land. Additionally, the Zoning Code is intended to limit the intensity, height,
number of stories, and size of buildings and other structures hereafter designed, erected or
altered. The OMC specifies regulations that must be followed by every project within the City’s
jurisdictional area. The OMC is referenced throughout this Initial Study to establish the
Project’s zoning requirements according to the City’s regulatory framework.
November 2013
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Introduction
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
2.0
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1
PROJECT LOCATION
The City of Orange is located in north-central Orange County, approximately 32 miles southeast
of the City of Los Angeles; refer to Exhibit 2-1, Regional Vicinity. The City is bordered on the
north by the City of Anaheim and unincorporated County of Orange, on the south by the Cities
of Santa Ana and Tustin, and unincorporated County of Orange, on the east by unincorporated
County of Orange, and on the west by the City of Anaheim. The City of Orange surrounds the
City of Villa Park on all sides.
Exhibit 2-2, Planning Area, illustrates the precise boundaries of the City’s planning area, which
encompasses approximately 23,800 acres, including approximately 22,400 acres within the
City’s corporate limits and approximately 1,400 acres of unincorporated land. An additional
15,800 acres of Orange’s SOI are located east of the City and outside the planning area. The
General Plan focuses primarily on the areas within the 23,800-acre planning area.
Four major freeways traverse the City and provide regional/national access: Interstate 5 (I-5,
Santa Ana Freeway); State Route 22 (SR-22, Garden Grove Freeway); State Route 57 (SR-57),
and State Route 55 (SR-55, Costa Mesa Freeway). State Routes 241 (SR-241) and 261 (SR-261)
also traverse the City’s eastern portion and its SOI.
2.2
ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The Orange planning area is characterized by generally flat or gently sloping topography. The
foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains are found in the planning area’s eastern portion, while an
alluvial plain underlies the central and western portions. The Santa Ana River generally forms
the western boundary, and Santiago Creek traverses the City from the northeast to the southwest.
The majority of the planning area is characterized by urbanized areas that generally have low
habitat value for biological resources. However, much of the planning area’s eastern portion is
undeveloped and contains valuable biological resources. Additionally, the planning area
contains a variety of historic resources, including federal, state, and locally recognized resources.
The City’s known historic resources are located primarily in the Old Towne Orange Historic
District.
As previously stated, the majority of the planning area is urbanized. The City’s predominantly
residential land use pattern reflects its history of transition from a citrus-growing center clustered
near the railroad to a town core surrounded by residential neighborhoods and supporting
commercial and service uses. Residential land uses are located throughout the City, transitioning
from urban residential in the City’s western portion, to suburban and semi rural residential in the
eastern portion. The City’s neighborhoods, including among others, Old Towne, the Presidential
Tracts, El Modena, the Alphabet Streets, the Eichler Tracts, and Mabury Ranch, are diverse.
Each neighborhood represents a distinctive character and personality.
November 2013
-7-
Project Description
Lancaster
395
Palmdale
15
Adelanto
14
Apple Valley
Victorville
18
247
Hesperia
138
S A N
L O S A N G E L E S
C O U N T Y
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Fernando
5
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C O U N T Y
210
San
Bernardino
15
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Pasadena
Glendora
210
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2
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Rialto
101
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10
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10
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Angeles
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60
605
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215
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10
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Whittier
710
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90 Linda
110
5
91
60
71
57
105
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Moreno
Valley
91
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91
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405
1
55
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R I V E R S I D E
C O U N T Y
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22
74
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73
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215
15
5
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1
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CITY OF ORANGE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE
2014-2021 PLANNING PERIOD
INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
NOT TO SCALE
Regional Vicinity
11/13 • JN 132849
Exhibit 2-1
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Source: City of Orange General Plan EIR, February 2009.
CITY OF ORANGE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE
2014-2021 PLANNING PERIOD
INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
NOT TO SCALE
Planning Area
11/13 • JN 132849
Exhibit 2-2
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Approximately 36 different architectural styles are represented, including 1960’s homes
designed by world-renowned architect Joseph Eichler, El Modena’s Latino essence style, and
Old Towne’s historic homes. The City’s existing residential uses are further described in the
Population and Housing Sections below. Commercial uses and higher density residential land
uses are focused along major roadways such as Katella, Tustin, Chapman, and Lincoln, with
light industrial uses concentrated in the west central portion of the City.
Based on a land use inventory completed in 2004, the City’s predominant land use is residential,
with housing covering 46 percent of the City’s land area; refer to General Plan Figure LU-1.
Commercial and industrial uses represented approximately 14 percent of the City’s land area,
while natural hillsides, parks, and open space represented approximately 32 percent. General
Plan PEIR Table 4-2, outlines the existing development in the planning area and indicates there
were approximately 35.470 million SF of non-residential uses in 2004, including commercial
uses (approximately 18.5 million SF), industrial uses (approximately 15.2 million SF), and
public facility uses (approximately 1.8 million SF). As of January 2013, the City’s housing stock
consists of 45,215 DU, of which over one half (26,052 DU or approximately 58 percent) are
single-family detached units. 1 The remaining residential uses consist of single-family attached
units (approximately 11 percent), multi-family two to four units (approximately 11 percent),
multi-family five plus units (approximately 18 percent), and mobile homes (approximately three
percent).
The General Plan Land Use Element establishes 19 land use designations, including four for
residential development that allow a range of housing types and densities. Additionally, three
mixed-use activity center designations encourage creative mixes of residential and commercial
retail uses, among others. Table 2-1, General Plan Residential Land Use Designations, lists the
General Plan’s residential land use designations and the corresponding range of development
density permitted for each. The maximum allowable development on any individual parcel is
governed by these measures of density, with the anticipated yield influenced by a parcel’s
physical characteristics, access and infrastructure issues, and compatibility considerations.
The land use distribution and resultant residential and nonresidential development levels that can
be expected from implementation of the General Plan’s land use policies are illustrated on the
Land Use Policy Map (General Plan Figure LU-5) and outlined in General Plan Table LU-2.
The General Plan’s anticipated residential development is summarized below, according to land
use designation:




Estate Low Density Residential: 1,011 acres, 1,819 DU;
Low-Density Residential: 6,413 acres, 32,063 DU;
Low-Medium Density Residential: 1,356 acres, 10,849 DU;
Medium Density Residential: 607 acres, 9,892 DU;
1
State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties
and the State — January 1, 2011- 2013. Sacramento, California, May 2013.
November 2013
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist



Old Towne Mixed Use:
- Old Towne Mixed Use Spoke: 31 acres, 123 DU;
- Old Towne Mixed Use 15: 50 acres, 280 DU;
- Old Towne Mixed Use 24: 11 acres, 130 DU;
Neighborhood Mixed Use: 26 acres, 300 DU; and
Urban Mixed Use: 426 acres, 10,223 DU.
Table 2-1
General Plan Residential Land Use Designations
Designation
Density
Range
Expected
Description
RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATIONS
ESTR
Estate Low Density
Residential
0-2.0 du/ac
1.8 du/ac
LDR
Low Density
Residential
2.1-6.0 du/ac
5.0 du/ac
LMDR
Low Medium Density
Residential
6.1-15.0 du/ac
8.0 du/ac
MDR
Medium Density
Residential
15.1-24.0 du/ac
16.3 du/ac
Large lot, single-family residential development in a rural or
semirural setting. Private, noncommercial equestrian and
agricultural
Conventional
single-family
residential
development
characterized by individual single-family homes constructed in
subdivisions, or by custom units built on individual lots.
Includes small lot or zero lot line single-family subdivisions,
duplexes and mobile home parks, as well as lower intensity
apartment and condominium complexes.
Apartment and condominium or townhouse units in areas with
ready access to major circulation routes, business districts and
public open space areas. Typical developments may consist of
two- or three-story buildings that house multiple dwelling units
and provide some form of open space.
MIXED-USE ACTIVITY CENTER DESIGNATIONS
NMIX
Neighborhood
Mixed-use
Maximum
24.0 du/ac;
1.0 - 1.5 FAR
16.3 du/ac;
1.0 FAR
Local- and neighborhood-supporting mixed-use activity centers
and corridors. Commercial retail is encouraged to be the
primary use on the ground floor. Professional office and housing
uses are also encouraged, either integrated with a commercial
use, or as separate, free-standing uses. Walkability and
pedestrian access are key considerations. The lower end of the
FAR range supports retail development, while the higher end
supports a combination of uses including both commercial and
office.
Old Towne Mixed-Use
OTMIX
Old Towne
Mixed Use 15
Max. 15.0
du/ac; 0.5-1.0
FAR
8.0 du/ac;
1.0 FAR
OTMIX
Old Towne
Mixed Use 24
Max. 24.0
du/ac; 1.0-1.5
FAR
16.3 du/ac;
1.5 FAR
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Local- and neighborhood-supporting mixed-use activity centers
designed to be contextually appropriate within a historic area.
Commercial retail is encouraged to be the primary use on the
ground floor. Professional office and housing uses are also
encouraged, particularly as adaptive reuse opportunities within
existing structures.
Transit-orientation, walkability, and
pedestrian access are key considerations. The lower end of the
FAR range supports retail development, while the higher end of
the range supports a combination of uses including commercial
and office.
Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Table 2-1 [continued]
General Plan Residential Land Use Designations
Designation
Density
Range
Expected
OTMIX
Old Towne
Mixed Use Spoke
6.0 – 15.0
du/ac; Max. 0.6
FAR
10.0 du/ac;
0.6 FAR
UMIX
Urban Mixed-Use
30.0 – 60.0
du/ac; 1.5 - 3.0
FAR
48.0 du/ac;
1.7 FAR
Description
Local- and neighborhood-supporting mixed-use activity centers
designed to be contextually appropriate within a historic area.
Commercial retail is encouraged to be the primary use on the
ground floor. Professional office and housing uses are also
encouraged, particularly as adaptive reuse opportunities within
existing structures.
Transit-orientation, walkability, and
pedestrian access are key considerations, as well as protection
of the existing historic, residential-scale, and building character
of the spoke streets outside of the downtown core. The lower
end of the FAR range supports retail development, while the
higher end of the range supports a combination of uses
including commercial and office.
Urban, high-intensity, regionally-oriented activity centers that
define the character of surrounding areas and serve as
gateways to the City. This designation provides for integrated
commercial retail, high-rise office, housing, and civic uses.
Commercial retail is intended to be the primary use on the
ground floor. Convenient, high-frequency transit access,
innovative housing options, and pedestrian-oriented design are
key considerations.
PUBLIC FACILITIES AND OPEN SPACE DESIGNATIONS
Public Facilities and Institutions
Civic Uses/Schools
Provides for several types of public, quasi-public and institutional
Schools, Water
land uses, including schools, colleges, and universities, City and
PFI
Max. 0.50 FAR
.15 FAR
Department Facilities
County facilities, hospitals, and major utility easements and
Institutions
properties. Includes service organizations and housing related
to an institutional use, such as dormitories, employee housing,
Colleges and
PFI
Max. 2.0 FAR
.35 FAR
assisted living, convalescent homes, and skilled nursing
Universities
facilities.
PFI
Hospitals
Max. 2.0 FAR
1.0 FAR
Source: General Plan Land Use Element Table LU-1, Land Use Designations.
Overall, development in accordance with the General Plan is anticipated to result in 65,680 DU
(60,503 units within City limits), with a resultant population of approximately 191,715 persons.
(This represents 20,465 additional dwelling units, compared to the City’s 2013 housing stock).
Given the largely built-out character of Orange and the condition of most buildings, significant
“greenfield” development and redevelopment activities are not anticipated over the life of the
General Plan. However, future land uses changes and development are anticipated within eight
land use Focus Areas, as illustrated on General Plan Figure LU-6, Land Use Focus Areas, and
outlined below:





Chapman Avenue/Tustin Street;
Katella Avenue Corridor;
South Main Street Corridor;
West Chapman Avenue/Uptown Orange;
Old Towne and Santa Fe Depot;
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist



Industrial Areas;
Lemon Street Corridor; and
Eckhoff Street/Orangewood Avenue.
POPULATION
Orange County’s population totaled 2,846,289 persons in 2000 and 3,010,232 persons in 2010,
representing a growth rate of approximately six percent for this time period; refer to Table 2-2,
Population Estimates and Projections. As of January 2013, the County’s population was an
estimated 3,081,804 persons. According to SCAG, with a forecast population of approximately
3,266,000 persons by 2020, the County’s population is projected to grow approximately six
percent between 2013 and 2020.
Table 2-2
Population Estimates and Projections
Year
County of Orange
2000 Census1
2010 Census2
2000 - 2010 Change
2000 - 2010 % Change
2013 Existing Conditions3
2010 – 2013 Change
2010 – 2013 % Change
2020 SCAG Forecasts4
2013 – 2020 Change
2013 – 2020 % Change
2,846,289
3,010,232
+163,943
+5.8%
3,081,804
+71,572
+2.4%
3,266,000
+184,196
+6.0%
City of Orange
128,821
136,416
+7,595
+5.9%
138,792
+2,376
+1.7%
141,500
+2,708
+2.0%
Notes:
1. U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2000.
2. U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010.
3. State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties and the
State - January 1, 2011- 2013. Sacramento, California, May 2013.
4. Southern California Association of Governments Website, Adopted 2012 RTP Growth Forecast,
http://www.scag.ca.gov/forecast/index.htm, Accessed August 14, 2013.
As indicated in Table 2-2, the City’s population was an estimated 128,821 persons in 2000 and
136,416 persons in 2010, representing a population growth rate of approximately six percent
between 2000 and 2010. The City’s 2013 population is approximately 138,792 persons. SCAG
forecasts the City’s population will increase to approximately 141,500 persons by 2020, or
approximately two percent between 2013 and 2020. Comparatively, the City is forecast to grow
at a much lower rate than the County. As previously noted, development in accordance with the
General Plan is anticipated to result in a population of approximately 191,715 persons, including
approximately 175,605 persons within City limits. Housing Element Section B.1, Population
Trends and Characteristics, discusses the changes to the City’s population size and age, and
racial/ethnic composition.
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
HOUSING
The County’s housing data is presented in Table 2-3, Household and Housing Estimates and
Projections. The County’s 2000 housing inventory was an estimated 969,484 DU, representing
an increase of approximately eight percent over the 2010 inventory of 1,048,907 DU. The
County’s 2013 housing inventory totaled 1,056,195 DU, with a 5.4 percent vacancy rate and an
average of 3.03 persons per household. The County’s households are forecast to total 1,049,000
by 2020. Based on a vacancy rate of 5.4 percent, the County’s housing inventory is forecast to
total approximately 1,108,879 DU by 2020. The households are forecast to grow approximately
five percent between 2013 and 2020; refer to Table 2-3.
Table 2-3
Household and Housing Estimates and Projections
Year/Description
2000 Census1
2010 Census2
2000 - 2010 Change
2000 - 2010 % Change
2013 Existing Conditions3
2010 - 2013 Change
2010 - 2013 % Change
2013 Existing Vacancy Rate3
2013 Existing Persons per Household3
2020 SCAG Forecasts4
2013 – 2020 Change
2013 – 2020 % Change
County of Orange
Households
935,287
992,781
+57,494
+6%
999,552
+6,771
+1%
-3.03
1,049,000
+54,615
+5%
Dwelling Units
969,484
1,048,907
+79,423
+8%
1,056,195
+7,288
+1%
5.40%
-1,108,8795
+58,146
+6%
City of Orange
Households
40,930
43,367
+2,437
+6%
43,467
+100
+0.23%
-3.040
43,700
+283
+1%
Dwelling Units
41,904
45,111
+3,207
+8%
45,215
+104
+0.23%
3.90%
-45,4735
+310
+1%
Notes:
1. U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2000.
2. U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010.
3. State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties and the State - January 1,
2011- 2013. Sacramento, California, May 2013.
4. Southern
California
Association
of
Governments
Website, Adopted
2012
RTP
Growth
Forecast,
http://www.scag.ca.gov/forecast/index.htm, Accessed August 14, 2013.
5. SCAG provides population and household forecasts, however, no housing forecasts. Therefore, the 2020 housing forecasts have
been extrapolated based on 5.4 percent vacancy rate for the County and 3.9 percent vacancy rate for the City.
The City’s 2010 housing inventory was an estimated 45,111 DU, representing an increase of
approximately eight percent over the 2000 inventory of 41,904 DU; refer to Table 2-3.
Comparatively, the City’s and County’s housing growth rates between 2000 and 2010 were
similar. As of January 2013, the City’s housing inventory totaled 45,215 DU with a 3.9 percent
vacancy rate. Housing Element Section B.4, Housing Inventory and Market Conditions,
discusses the City’s housing stock, including housing stock profile and tenure, and Housing
November 2013
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Element Section B.5, Housing Costs and Rents, section evaluates housing costs in the City for
both rental and owner-occupied units. Based on SCAG’s household forecasts for the City, the
housing inventory is forecast to total approximately 45,473 DU by 2020.
As of January 2013, the City’s households total 43,467 with an average of 3.04 persons per
household. Housing Element Section B.3, Household Characteristics, provides an overview of
household characteristics in the City of Orange, including household formation/composition and
income. SCAG forecasts the City’s households will total 43,700 by 2020, representing an
increase of approximately one percent between 2013 and 2020; refer to Table 2-3.
Vacancy rates are a measure of the general availability of housing. They also indicate how well
the types of available units meet the housing market demand. A low vacancy rate suggests that
households may have difficulty finding housing within their price range, whereas a high vacancy
rate indicates that either the units available are not suited to the population’s needs or there is an
oversupply of housing units. The availability of vacant housing units provides households with
choices of type and price to accommodate their specific needs. Low vacancy rates can result in
higher prices, limited choices, and settling with inadequate housing. It may also contribute to
overcrowding. A vacancy rate between 4.0 and 6.0 is considered “healthy.” As indicated in
Table 2-3, the City’s 2013 vacancy rate is approximately four percent, which is considered a
healthy rate. Comparatively, the City’s vacancy rate was slightly less than the County’s overall
vacancy rate of 5.4 percent.
EMPLOYMENT
The largest employment sector in the City in 2000 was the education, health and social services
industry, accounting for 17 percent of the labor force. The other top employment sectors
included, manufacturing at 15.1 percent, professional, scientific, management, administrative
and waste management services at 13.3 percent, and retail trade at 10.8 percent. Since 2000, the
percentage of City’s residents employed in the education, health and social services industry
experienced an increase to 19.1 percent, while residents employed in manufacturing decreased to
11.2 percent; refer to Housing Element Table H-6. The City’s employment trends are further
discussed in detail in Housing Element Section B.2, Employment Trends.
The jobs/housing ratio is used as a general measure of balance between a community’s
employment opportunities and the housing needs of its residents. According to the American
Planning Association, the recommended target standard for jobs-housing ratio is approximately
1.5, although, this recommended target can vary from community to community. A ratio of 1.0
or greater generally indicates that a City provides adequate employment opportunities,
potentially allowing its residents to work within the City. According to the 2006-2008 Census
Transportation Planning Package used in SCAG’s Existing Housing Needs Report (2012), there
were 95,605 jobs in Orange. UCI Medical Center is the City’s largest employer with 3,986
employees in 2009; refer to Housing Element Table H-7. The City’s next top employer is St.
Joseph Hospital with 3,909 employees. As of January 2013, the City’s housing stock consists of
45,215 DU, resulting in a jobs/housing balance of 2.11. Orange’s jobs/housing balance indicates
that there are more jobs available than housing to accommodate the City’s workers. This
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
condition creates a demand for new housing to accommodate those employed in the City and
creating upward pressure on housing prices.
According to the American Planning Association, if communities try to match the labor force
with employment in the community, a one-to-one (1:1) relationship is the ideal. According to
the California Department of Finance, there are an estimated 73,000 Orange residents of working
age that make up the City’s labor force. The City’s ratio of jobs to labor force is 1.31.
According to the California Employment Development Department, the City’s 2011
unemployment rate was 8.0 percent, which is slightly less than the County’s unemployment rate
of 8.7 percent.
HOUSING ELEMENTS AND REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Each governing body (i.e., City Council) of a local California government is required to adopt a
comprehensive, long-term general plan for the physical development of the city (or county). The
housing element is one of seven State-mandated general plan elements. Housing element law
mandates that local governments adequately plan to meet the existing and projected housing
needs of all economic segments of the community. The law acknowledges that, in order for the
private market to adequately address housing needs and demand, local governments must adopt
land use plans and regulatory systems that provide opportunities for, and do not unduly
constrain, housing development. As a result, housing policy in the State rests largely upon the
effective implementation of local general plans and, in particular, local housing elements.
Housing element law also requires that the California Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) review local housing elements for compliance with State law and report its
written findings to the local government.
The City’s Housing Element was last updated in 2010 for the January 1, 2006 through June 30,
2014 planning period, or 4th cycle. Consistent with the update cycle for jurisdictions in the
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) region, the proposed Housing Element
Update, subject of this Initial Study, is for the October 15, 2013 through October 15, 2021
planning period. The 2014-2021 Housing Element (Project) identifies and analyzes existing and
projected housing needs and articulates the City’s official policies for the preservation,
conservation, improvement, and production of housing within the City.
Pursuant to California Government Code (CGC) Section 65584 applicable to the Regional
Housing Need Allocation (RHNA) process, HCD is required to determine the RHNA, by income
category, for Council of Governments (COGs). The City of Orange is a member agency of the
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). In August 2011, HCD provided
SCAG with its RHNA Determination for the January 1, 2014 through October 31, 2021
projection period. In turn, COGs (i.e., SCAG) are required to allocate to each locality a share of
housing need totaling the RHNA for each income category. Pursuant to GC 65583, localities are
required to update their housing element to plan to accommodate their entire RHNA share by
income category. It is noted that a community is not necessarily obligated to construct housing
to meet its RHNA share. Thus, rather than a construction need allocation, the RHNA is a
distribution of housing development capacity that each city and county must zone for in a given
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
planning period. As noted above, the 5th cycle RHNA Allocation Plan is for the January 1, 2014
to October 31, 2021 projection period. The 5th cycle housing element updates, which are for the
October 15, 2013 to October 15, 2021 planning period, must be adopted by October 15, 2013.
The current RHNA incorporates reform provisions contained in the AB 2158 and SB 375.
Housing element updates are synchronized with the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP)
adoption and the RHNA must be consistent with the 2012-2035 Regional Transportation
Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy: Towards a Sustainable Future (RTP/SCS) and its
development pattern. The RHNA methodology must still address anticipated housing needs for
all income groups related to population and employment growth and reduce the concentration of
lower income households. However, it now must incorporate sufficient land use capacity to
support improved mobility and job housing balance, including complementary transportation
efficiency adjustments that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) and tailpipe emissions.
2014-2021 GROWTH NEEDS
A local jurisdiction’s “fair-share” of regional housing need is the number of additional housing
units that will need to be constructed in the jurisdiction to: accommodate the forecast growth in
the number of households; replace expected housing demolitions and conversions to non-housing
uses; and achieve a future vacancy rate that allows for healthy functioning of the housing market.
The allocation is divided into four income categories: Very Low; Low; Moderate; and Above
Moderate. The allocation is further adjusted to avoid an over-concentration of lower-income
households in any one jurisdiction. Based on AB 2632 requirements, each jurisdiction must
address the projected need for extremely low income households, defined as households earning
less than 30 percent of the county’s median family income (MFI). As of 2013, the MFI for
Orange County is $87,200. The projected extremely low income need is assumed to be 50
percent of the very-low income need.
Table 2-4, RHNA Allocation (2014-2021), presents the RHNA housing need by income category
for the 5th cycle Housing Element Update. As indicated in Table 2-4, SCAG has determined
that Orange’s “fair-share” of the regional housing growth need is 363 units, including 83 very
low income units, 59 low income units, 66 moderate income units, and 155 above moderate
income units.
Table 2-4
RHNA Allocation (2014-2021)
Income Category
Number of Units
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
Total Construction Need
Source:
November 2013
83
59
66
155
363
Southern California Association of Governments Website, http://rtpscs.scag.ca.gov/Documents/rhna/
5thCyclePFinalRHNAplan.pdf, Accessed August 14, 2013.
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
2.3
PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS
The State Legislature has mandated that all cities and counties prepare a Housing Element as part
of their comprehensive General Plans (CGC Section 65302(c)). Specifically, the housing
element comprises one of the seven State-mandated general plan elements, as expressed in CGC
Sections 65580 to 65589.8. State law mandates that jurisdictions within the SCAG region update
and adopt their housing element for the 5th cycle by October 15, 2013. State law also requires
that the housing element consist of “an identification and analysis of existing and projected
housing needs and a statement of goals, policies, quantified objectives, and scheduled programs
for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing.” It is intended that the housing
element be reviewed and updated not less than every eight years to remain relevant and useful,
and reflect a community’s changing housing needs
In compliance State law requirements, the City of Orange has prepared the 2014-2021 Housing
Element (Project) to identify and analyze existing and projected housing needs, and articulate the
City’s official policies for the preservation, conservation, improvement, and production of
housing within the City. The proposed Housing Element Update covers the October 15, 2013
through October 15, 2021 planning period. The Housing Element represents the required update
and responds to the issues that currently face the City.
The RHNA prepared by SCAG for the January 1, 2014 through October 31, 2021 projection
period identifies the City of Orange’s share of the region’s housing needs as 363 new housing
units; refer to Table 2-4. The City of Orange’s share of the region’s housing needs for 20142021 is the projected need for housing used in the Housing Element’s evaluation. State Housing
Element law mandates that a city demonstrate it has capacity or adequate sites to accommodate
the projected housing need. The City must show it has adequate sites available through
appropriate zoning and development standards, with the required public services and facilities
for a variety of housing types and incomes. The required evaluation of adequate sites, which
represents goals for planning and not goals for actual housing production within the planning
period, is provided in Housing Element Appendix B and summarized below. The actual housing
production over the planning period would depend upon a number of factors including market
demand and financing availability.
HOUSING PROGRAMS AND OBJECTIVES
The housing programs presented in Housing Element Section D, Housing Policy Program, are
intended to further detail the City’s commitment to assure continued maintenance, improvement,
and development of housing within the City through a “good faith, diligent effort” as required by
State Housing Law (CGC Section 65583(c)). This section provides production, rehabilitation,
equal housing, and conservation/preservation objectives, along with their corresponding policy
actions, that will support the City’s housing objectives. The Housing Elements Objectives and
Policy Actions to be implemented over the course of the planning period are summarized, as
follows:
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Production Objectives
 Policy Action 1: Processing Annexation of East Orange General Plan Area;
 Policy Action 2: Annual Review of Housing Element;
 Policy Action 3: Promotion of Affordable Housing;
 Policy Action 4: Support and Outreach for Affordable Housing Production;
 Policy Action 5: Development of Housing for Large Families;
 Policy Action 6: Provision of Senior Housing Opportunities;
 Policy Action 7: Facilitate Infill Construction;
 Policy Action 8: Explore Alternative Funding and Financing Sources;
 Policy Action 9: Support Community Housing Development Organization New
Construction Projects;
 Policy Action 10: Monitoring Adequate Sites for Housing Development;
 Policy Action 11: Review and Amendment of Residential Development Standards;
 Policy Action 12: Affordable Housing Resource “Toolkit;”
 Policy Action 13: Balance Housing with Needs of Local Employees; and
 Policy Action 14: Coordinate with Chapman University to Address Student Housing.
Rehabilitation Objective
 Policy Action 15: Rehabilitation of Multi-Family Residential Development.
Equal Housing Objectives
 Policy Action 16: Homeless Services;
 Policy Action 17: Support Fair Housing Services;
 Policy Action 18: Section 8 Rental Assistance;
 Policy Action 19: Support for Persons with Developmental Disabilities;
 Policy Action 20: Single Room Occupancy Units; and
 Policy Action 21: Revise Zoning Ordinance to Comply with State Law Regarding
Transitional and Supportive Housing.
Conservation/Preservation Objectives
 Policy Action 22: Monitoring and Preservation of “At-Risk” Units;
 Policy Action 23: In-Kind Technical Assistance;
 Policy Action 24: Proactive Code Compliance for Private Property;
 Policy Action 25: Blight Removal on Public Property; and
 Policy Action 26: Preservation of Historic Residential Structures.
The City’s quantified objectives for the 2014-2021 planning period, as outlined in Housing
Element Table H-68, are to meet the RHNA allocation by accommodating 363 new DU,
including 42 extremely low income, 83 very low income, 59 low income, 66 moderate income,
and 155 above moderate income units. It is also the City’s objective to rehabilitate 32 existing
units and conserve/preserve 97 existing units.
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
CAPACITY TO MEET REGIONAL SHARE GOALS
The City has evaluated its capacity to meet RHNA goals with existing development capacities
(i.e., existing General Plan land use designations and zoning) and its findings are summarized
below. OMC Table 17.06.020 establishes the classes of zone districts, which: classify, regulate,
restrict, and segregate the uses of land and buildings; regulate and restrict the height and bulk of
buildings; regulate the area of yards, courts, and other open spaces around buildings; specify
other development standards applicable to uses; and provide a framework for review of building
design. As indicated in OMC Table 17.06.020, there are 16 established residential zoning
districts. Additionally, the City has established five mixed use zoning districts that permit
residential uses; refer to OMC Section 17.19.020. The availability of land suited to
accommodate housing that is affordable to the various household income levels is based upon the
allowed density (DU per acre) within these zoning districts.
The City’s share of the region’s housing need was determined by the Southern California
Association of Governments (SCAG) through the RHNA adopted on October 4, 2012. As
shown on Table 2-4, RHNA Housing Allocation, SCAG determined that the City must
accommodate 363 housing units between January 1, 2014 and October 31, 2021. The City’s
RHNA allocation is accommodated by projects completed, in progress, planned or within
specific plan areas, and by an inventory of vacant parcels that may be used for future residential
development. This inventory is described below.
Current Projects. The City has a number of “projects-in-the-pipeline,” including those that are
under construction, entitled, or in the entitlement process; refer to Housing Element Table B-3.
As indicated in Housing Element Table B-3, a total of 3,662 DU units are under construction,
entitled, or in the entitlement process, including 205 very low, 207 low, 740 moderate, and 2,510
above moderate income units.
Vacant Land Resources. The City’s vacant lands are listed in Housing Element Table B-2 and
their locations are illustrated in Housing Element Appendix B-1. As indicated, the City has
minimal areas of vacant land with only approximately 67 acres remaining (24 parcels). The
City’s vacant land is scattered throughout the City and has the potential for infill development.
Because many of the vacant parcels are remnant pieces too small for construction to be feasible,
it is assumed that only seven (7) vacant parcels (approximately 32 acres) are feasible for
construction, having a development potential of 75 DU, all market-rate units.
General Plan Focus Areas Residential Capacity. As part of the 2010 General Plan Update,
residential development capacity was increased in five Focus Areas (Katella Avenue Corridor,
South Main Street Corridor, West Chapman Avenue/Uptown Orange, Old Towne and Santa Fe
Depot, and Lemon Street Corridor). These Focus Areas are where redevelopment and future
growth is envisioned to occur. Within these areas, mixed use land use designations were applied
to accommodate higher-density residential uses and a broader range of commercial uses than
previously allowed; refer to Table 2-3. The 2010 General Plan allows for redevelopment of
parcels to increase density and/or develop residential units on land previously designated for
industrial or commercial uses. In 2011, the City established five mixed use zoning districts
November 2013
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
(OTMU-15, OTMU-15S, OTMU-24, NMU-24, and UMU) to implement the 2010 General
Plan’s new mixed use land use designations.
CGC Section 65583.2(c)(3)(B)(iv) allows jurisdictions in metropolitan counties, such as Orange,
to include sites with a minimum density of 30 DU per acre as appropriate sites to accommodate
the jurisdictions’ lower income households. It is assumed that the market can produce affordable
units at this density. Of the City’s zoning districts, the UMU zoning district is the only one with
a minimum density of 30 DU/AC or greater. Therefore, land within this zoning district is
particularly important for future affordable housing opportunities. As indicated in General Plan
Table LU-2, General Plan Development Capacity, approximately 426 acres in the City are
designated Urban Mixed Use (UMIX). Of the UMIX-designated lands, 291 acres are zoned
UMU district.
Within the Focus Areas, the City has identified “housing opportunity sites” that are likely to be
redeveloped with residential uses; refer to opportunity sites identified as “Existing
Development/Redevelopment Capacity” in Housing Element Appendix B2 (Tables B2-1 to B2-4
and Exhibits B2-1 to B2-4). These sites represent underutilized properties that already have land
use designations and zoning districts that allow for housing development. It is noted that
identification of a property as a housing opportunity site does not restrict the site’s future
development to residential uses; rather, its future development would continue to be governed by
the applicable zoning regulations. The net density and development capacity of each site was
determined using the methodology described in Housing Element Appendix B Section 2(c).
Housing Element Table B-10, Focus Areas Summary Potential Development Yield, summarizes
the Focus Areas and their potential residential development capacity. As indicated in Housing
Element Table B-10, the potential residential development yield for the Focus Areas combined is
1,965 DU, of which 1,772 have potential capacity for very low and low income units (i.e., they
are zoned Urban Mixed Use and have an allowed minimum density of 30 DU/AC or greater
(with a minimum of 16 DU per site)).
Sites Summary. The City’s potential development yield from the projects-in-the-pipeline
(current projects), vacant lands, and Focus Areas is 5,702 DU, as indicated in Table 2-5, Sites
Summary, and illustrated on Exhibit 2-3, Housing Sites Map. As shown in Table 2-5, the City is
able to meet the RHNA allocation through the projects-in-the-pipeline alone. Vacant land and
parcels with potential to be redeveloped with residential units within the Focus Areas provide
additional opportunities for new housing in Orange.
Table 2-5
Sites Summary
Income
Category
Very Low
Low
Moderate
Above Moderate
Total
2014-2021
RHNA
Allocation
83
59
66
155
363
Projects-inthe-Pipeline
205
207
740
2,510
3,662
Vacant Land
Resources
Focus Areas
Residential
Capacity
0
1,772
2,184
75
193
3,518
75
1,965
5,702
Total
Capacity
Source: Housing Element Table B-11, Sites Summary.
November 2013
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Project Description
CITY OF ORANGE HOUSING ELEMENT UPDATE
2014-2021 PLANNING PERIOD
INITIAL STUDY AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
Housing Sites Map
11/13 • JN 132849
Exhibit 2-3
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Development in accordance with the City’s 2010 General Plan is anticipated to result in up to
65,680 DU (an additional 23,478 DU’s over 2004 conditions). The General Plan PEIR assumed
and analyzed the environmental impacts resulting from the development of the additional 23,478
DU. The City’s RHNA allocation for the 2014-2021 projection period is 363 DU and the City’s
potential development yield from the projects-in-the-pipeline (current projects), vacant lands,
and Focus Areas is 5,702 DU, which were accounted for in the General Plan PEIR.
Table 2-6, Summary of Housing Forecasts, summarizes the City’s housing units according to the
General Plan PEIR, existing conditions, and proposed Housing Element.
Table 2-6
Summary of Housing Forecasts
Housing
(Dwelling Units)
Conditions/Year
GENERAL PLAN PEIR1
Baseline/Existing 2004
Buildout
Change From Baseline
43,372
66,850
+23,478
Change From Existing
45,215
66,850
+20,465
GENERAL PLAN PEIR
Existing 20132
Buildout1
HOUSING ELEMENT/RHNA ALLOCATION
Existing 20132
RHNA Allocation3
Total
45,215
363
45,578
Total
45,215
5,702
50,917
HOUSING ELEMENT/ DEVELOPMENT YIELD
Existing 20132
Housing Element Potential Development Yield
Notes:
1. General Plan PEIR Table 3-1, Proposed General Plan Development Capacity.
2. State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for
Cities, Counties and the State - January 1, 2011- 2013. Sacramento, California, May 2013.
3. Southern California Association of Governments Website, http://rtpscs.scag.ca.gov/
Documents/rhna/5thCyclePFinalRHNAplan.pdf, Accessed August 14, 2013.
Additionally, because the City’s RHNA can be met with projects-in-the-pipeline, the Housing
Element does not propose to change existing General Plan land use designations or zoning
districts, or increase residential densities. The City has determined that the proposed Housing
Element Update is consistent with the General Plan for which the General Plan PEIR was
prepared, as well as the General Plan land use designations and zoning districts. Further, the
City has determined that the proposed Housing Element Update would not satisfy any of the
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
conditions that warrant preparation of a Subsequent or Supplemental EIR, pursuant to PRC
Section 21166, Subsequent or Supplemental Impact Report; Conditions. Namely, the
changes/additions to the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, as assumed in
the General Plan PEIR, are limited in the following respects:

The changes required by the proposed Housing Element Update do not require major
revisions to the General Plan PEIR. No new significant environmental effect or
substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects would occur
with Project implementation.

Substantial changes have not occurred with respect to the circumstances under which the
proposed Housing Element would be undertaken. Thus, major revisions of the General
Plan PEIR due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a
substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects are not
required.

The new available information does not show that the proposed Housing Element Update
would have one or more significant effects not already discussed in the General Plan
FEIR, or that the significant effects previously examined would be substantially more
severe than shown in the General Plan PEIR.
Therefore, because the prior General Plan PEIR was prepared and certified for the General Plan,
this Initial Study was conducted to examine the Housing Element Update’s potential effects on
the environment. Based on the findings of this Initial Study, the City has concluded that the
Housing Element Update’s potential environmental effects were avoided/mitigated as a result of
the prior General Plan PEIR. The City has also concluded that the potential environmental
effects were examined at a sufficient level of detail in the prior General Plan PEIR to enable
those effects to be avoided or mitigated through compliance with the established regulatory
framework and the General Plan PEIR mitigation measures.
2.4
PROJECT OBJECTIVES/GOALS
The City of Orange supports and endorses the statewide housing goal “…of a decent home and a
satisfying environment for every Californian...” The City supports and endorses the following
five goals incorporated in present State law pertaining to the manner in which the City’s actions
must be directed so that there is adequate provision for the housing needs of all economic
segments:

Goal 1: Conserve and improve the condition of the existing standard affordable housing
stock.

Goal 2: Assist in the development of adequate housing to meet the needs of low-and
moderate-income households.
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Project Description
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist

Goal 3: Identify adequate housing sites which will be made available through
appropriate zoning and development standards and with public services and facilities
needed to facilitate and encourage the development of a variety of types of housing for all
income groups.

Goal 4: Address and, where appropriate and legally possible, remove governmental
constraints to the maintenance, improvement and development of housing.

Goal 5: Promote housing opportunities for all persons regardless of race, religion, sex,
marital status, ancestry, national origin or color.
2.5
PROJECT PHASING
The Housing Element addresses the October 15, 2013 through October 15, 2021 planning period.
The Housing Element is a policy level document, which outlines policies and programs that will
allow the City to achieve its housing objectives within the identified planning period. The actual
housing production over the planning period would depend upon a number of factors including
market demand and financing availability. Further, the Housing Element does not approve or
otherwise commit the City to a specific project, construction plan, or timing.
2.6
AGREEMENTS, PERMITS AND APPROVALS
Approval of the Project is subject to actions set forth by the City of Orange. Adoption of the
update to the Housing Element of the City’s General Plan is subject to review and/or approval
by the following agencies:



City of Orange Planning Commission;
City of Orange City Council; and
California Department of Housing and Community Development.
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3.0
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM
3.1
BACKGROUND
1.
Project Title:
2.
City of Orange Housing Element Update, 2014 – 2021 Planning Period
Lead Agency Name and Address:
City of Orange
300 East Chapman Avenue
Orange, California 92866
3.
Contact Person and Phone Number:
4.
Mr. Gregory Hastings
Interim Community Development Director
Tel. 714.744.7220
Fax 714.744.7222
Project Location:
5.
City of Orange (Citywide)
Project Sponsor’s Name and Address:
6.
Mr. Gregory Hastings,
Interim Community Development Director
300 East Chapman Avenue
Orange, California 92866
General Plan Designation:
7.
Various (Citywide)
Zoning:
8.
Various (Citywide)
Description of the Project:
The Project consists of an update to the City of Orange General Plan Housing Element; refer to Section
2.3, Project Characteristics.
9.
Surrounding Land Uses and Setting:
North: City of Anaheim and unincorporated County of Orange
South: Cities of Santa Ana and Tustin, and unincorporated County of Orange
East: Unincorporated County of Orange
West: Cities of Anaheim and Garden Grove
10.
Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or
participation agreement):
The California Department of Housing and Community Development has authority of review and
comment on the Housing Element. No other public agencies have authority over the Project.
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Environmental Checklist Form
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
3.2
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by the Project, involving
at least one impact that is a “Potentially Significant Impact” or “Less Than Significant With
Mitigation Incorporated,” as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
Aesthetics
Agriculture and Forest Resources
Air Quality
Biological Resources
Cultural Resources
Geology and Soils
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Hazards and Hazardous Materials
Hydrology and Water Quality
November 2013
Land Use and Planning
Mineral Resources
Noise
Population and Housing
Public Services
Recreation
Transportation and Traffic
Utilities and Service Systems
Mandatory Findings of Significance
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Environmental Checklist Form
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
3.3
LEAD AGENCY DETERMINATION
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the
environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions
in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the
environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a “potentially significant impact” or
“potentially significant unless mitigated” impact on the environment, but at least
one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to
applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures
based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets.
An
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only
the effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the
environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed
adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to
applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that
earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation
measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.
X
City of Orange
Signature
Agency
Mr. Gregory Hastings
Interim Com. Dev. Director
November 19, 2013
Date
Printed Name/Title
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4.0
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Sections 4.1 through 4.18 analyze the potential environmental impacts associated with the
Project. The environmental issue areas that are evaluated are:


















Aesthetics;
Agriculture and Forest Resources;
Air Quality;
Biological Resources;
Cultural Resources;
Geology and Soils;
Greenhouse Gas Emissions;
Hazards and Hazardous Materials;
Hydrology and Water Quality;
Land Use and Planning;
Mineral Resources;
Noise;
Population and Housing;
Public Services;
Recreation;
Transportation andTraffic;
Utilities and Service Systems; and
Mandatory Findings of Significance.
The environmental analysis in the following sections is patterned after the Environmental
Checklist Form recommended by the CEQA Guidelines (Appendix G), as amended, and used by
the City of Orange in its environmental review process. For the preliminary environmental
assessment undertaken as part of this Initial Study’s preparation, a determination that there is a
potential for significant effects indicates the need to more fully analyze the development’s
impacts and to identify mitigation.
For the evaluation of potential impacts, the questions in the Initial Study Checklist are stated and
an answer is provided according to the analysis undertaken as part of the Initial Study. The
analysis considers the long-term, direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the development.
To each question, there are four possible responses:

No Impact. The development will not have any measurable environmental impact on the
environment.

Less Than Significant Impact. The development will have the potential for impacting the
environment, although this impact will be below established thresholds that are
considered to be significant.
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist

Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated. The development will have the
potential to generate impacts, which may be considered as a significant effect on the
environment, although mitigation measures or changes to the development’s physical or
operational characteristics can reduce these impacts to levels that are less than significant.

Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The development will
have the potential to generate impacts, which may be considered as a significant effect on
the environment, however, these have been adequately analyzed in the earlier General
Plan PEIR, and avoided/mitigated pursuant to that earlier document.

Potentially Significant Impact. The development could have impacts, which may be
considered significant, and therefore additional analysis is required to identify mitigation
measures that could reduce potentially significant impacts to less than significant levels.
The following is a discussion of potential project impacts as identified in the Initial
Study/Environmental Checklist. Explanations are provided for each item.
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4.1
AESTHETICS
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic
vista?
Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a
state scenic highway?
Substantially degrade the existing visual
character or quality of the site and its
surroundings?
Create a new source of substantial light or
glare, which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area?
4.1.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact




Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. According to the General
Plan PEIR, the City is a primarily urbanized environment in the western portion of the City,
situated against mostly undeveloped hills to the east. Scenic vistas are primarily available in the
planning area’s eastern portions where topography and open space allow far reaching views.
The earlier analysis concluded that future development allowed under the General Plan, which
occurs primarily in the land use Focus Areas located west of SR-55 in already developed areas,
would not be capable of obstructing scenic vistas. Development in the planning area’s
undeveloped eastern portions has the potential to impact scenic vistas, as undeveloped land is
urbanized. In addition, expansive views of natural areas, such as Santiago Creek, that could be
available could be affected by adjacent development. The General Plan PEIR concluded that
implementation of General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.1-1
through 5.1-9 that reduce the loss of views would reduce this impact to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Since scenic vistas are available only in the eastern portion of the City, future
residential development anticipated by the Project in already developed areas (i.e., Focus Areas
west of SR-55) and on a few small vacant remnant parcels would not be capable of obstructing
scenic vistas. Residential development in the planning area’s eastern undeveloped sites (i.e.,
East Orange/Santiago Hills II (EO/SHII) project) has the potential to impact scenic vistas.
However, because the EO/SHII residential development is already entitled and the General Plan
PEIR analyzed impacts from development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide (an increase
of 23,478 dwelling units), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the earlier environmental documents. In addition, consistent with
the General Plan PEIR, the Housing Element anticipates future housing units primarily being
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
developed through infill and redevelopment activities on already development sites within the
eight Focus Areas. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use
designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities beyond those assumed in the
General Plan PEIR. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing
Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to scenic vistas, have
already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated
to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR
mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.1-2, 5.1-4, 5.1-5, and 5.1-7
through 5.1-9 in Section 5.0, Inventory of General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures. No new
mitigation is required.
4.1.b.
Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
identified several City roadways as having scenic qualities and as designated viewscape corridors
by the County of Orange. Viewscape corridors are defined as routes that traverse a corridor
within which unique or unusual scenic resources and aesthetic values are found. Viewscape
corridors include portions of Jamboree Road, Santiago Canyon Road, and Newport Boulevard in
the East Orange area. The planning area does not contain any State- or County-designated scenic
highway or corridor. SR-91, an officially designated State scenic highway, is just north of and
outside of the planning area. The General Plan PEIR analysis concluded that future planned
development in the planning area’s eastern portions would change the nature of this area from
undeveloped land to a developed environment where scenic resources include natural areas,
trees, rock outcroppings, and rolling hills. Additionally, scenic resources, such as mature trees,
natural creek areas, parks, and unique architecture within the City’s developed portions may be
altered or damaged to some degree as new development occurs under General Plan buildout.
The General Plan PEIR concluded that implementation of Mitigation Measure 5.1-1 through 5.17 and 5.1-9 would reduce this impact to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide, and continue the existing urban land use pattern. The majority of future
residential construction is envisioned to occur as infill and redevelopment within urbanized
Focus Areas west of the SR-55 and would not affect scenic resources. The Project’s anticipated
residential development is also expected within the East Orange area (where residential
development is already entitled but not yet constructed), portions of which are visible from SR91. Therefore, future residential development in East Orange could potentially impact scenic
resources as viewed from SR-91, including trees and rock outcroppings. However, because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide (including development in East Orange), the Project’s anticipated residential development
was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element
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Update does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase
residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing
Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to scenic resources, have
already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated
to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR
mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.1-2, 5.1-4, 5.1-5, 5.1-7,
and 5.1-9 in Section 5.0. No new mitigation is required.
4.1.c.
Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its
surroundings?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analysis states that residential development in the planning area’s eastern portions could create
adverse visual impacts by adding visual elements of urban character to existing rural or open
spaces. Future planned development in this area would change the nature of this area from a
large area of undeveloped land to an area containing suburban development. In the urbanized
portion of the planning area and particularly in the Focus Areas, General Plan implementation
would increase the density and intensity of development resulting in a more urbanized character
compared to existing conditions. This increased urbanization could result in the alteration of the
unique neighborhoods’ visual character, historic structures, trees and landscaping, or other
elements contributing to the planning area’s visual character. The General Plan PEIR concluded
that adherence to the existing regulations protecting historic structures, General Plan Policies
addressing unique neighborhoods and streetscapes, and Mitigation Measures 5.1-1 through 5.1-9
would reduce program-level impacts to visual character to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide and continue the existing urban land use pattern. This increased urbanization
could result in the alteration of the unique neighborhoods’ visual character, historic structures
(for development in the Old Towne Focus area), trees and landscaping, or other elements
contributing to the planning area’s visual character. However, because the General Plan PEIR
analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s
anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan
PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing Element anticipates
future housing units primarily being developed through infill and redevelopment activities on
already developed sites within the eight Focus Areas. Finally, the Housing Element Update does
not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to visual character/quality, have
already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated
to less than significant through compliance with existing regulations protecting historic
structures , General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures.
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Individual residential projects would undergo project-specific environmental review. If projectlevel significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation would be required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.1-2 through 5.1-9 in
Section 5.0.
4.1.d.
Create a new source of substantial light or glare, which would adversely affect day
or nighttime views in the area?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
states that new development associated with the General Plan may increase the amount of light
and glare in the community. New development, particularly in the Focus Areas, could increase
the amount of light from street lights, exterior lighting from buildings, and vehicular head lights,
which could adversely affect nighttime views. Additionally, glare from additional buildings
constructed pursuant to General Plan buildout and headlights from vehicular traffic could
adversely affect daytime and nighttime views. The General Plan PEIR concluded that given the
urban nature of these areas, light and glare may not be substantially noticeable over existing
conditions. Development in currently undeveloped areas could increase light and glare in the
planning area’s eastern portion. The General Plan PEIR concluded that program-level impacts
involving light and glare would be less than significant through compliance with OMC
requirements and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.1-1 through 5.1-4 (derived from the
General Plan Implementation Programs),
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would
introduce new sources of light, including light from building interiors passing through windows
and light from building exteriors (i.e., street lighting, building illumination, security lighting and
landscape lighting). Depending upon the location of the light source and its proximity to
adjacent light sensitive uses, light introduction can be a nuisance, affecting adjacent areas and
diminishing the view of the clear night sky. Lighting may cause spillover impacts to nearby
sensitive receptors. The majority of the Project’s anticipated residential development would
occur via infill and redevelopment activities within Focus Areas west of the SR-55 and would
not generate substantial sources of light and glare given the urban context of the area. Housing
units constructed in East Orange area (where residential development is already entitled but not
yet constructed) would introduce new sources of light into a previously undeveloped area.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide (including the East Orange area), the Project’s anticipated residential
development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the
Housing Element Update does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning
districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting
from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those resulting from
light and glare, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can
be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with OMC requirements, and
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General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo projectspecific environmental review. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific
mitigation measures would be required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.1-3 and 5.1-4 in Section
5.0.
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4.2
AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES
In determining whether impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects,
lead agencies may refer to the California
Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site
Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the
California Department of Conservation as an
optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland),
as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to
the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program
of the California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural use?
Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use,
or a Williamson Act contract?
Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause
rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public
Resources Code Section 12220(g)), timberland
(as defined by Public Resources Code Section
4526), or timberland zoned Timberland
Production (as defined by Government Code
Section 51104(g))?
Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
forest land to non-forest use?
Involve other changes in the existing
environment, which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of Farmland,
to non-agricultural use or conversion of forest
land to non-forest use?
4.2.a.
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact





Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide
Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland
Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to nonagricultural use?
No Impact. The General Plan PEIR identified Important Farmland within the planning area at
four different locations; see General Plan PEIR Figure 5.2-1, Important Farmland. According to
General Plan PEIR Figure 5.2-1, the housing opportunity sites do not involve Important
Farmland. Therefore, the Project would not convert Important Farmland to non-agricultural use.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.2.b.
Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract?
No Impact. There are nine noncontiguous parcels throughout the eastern half of the City that are
zoned Agricultural Zoning District, the single district established by the City to preserve its
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Environmental Analysis
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
agricultural production areas. 2 The housing opportunity sites do not involve these agriculturally
zoned sites. Additionally, the Housing Element Update does not propose to change existing
zoning districts. No land within the planning area is under a Williamson Act contract.
Therefore, the Project would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a
Williamson Act contract.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.2.c.
Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in
Public Resources Code Section 12220(g)), timberland (as defined by Public
Resources Code Section 4526), or timberland zoned Timberland Production (as
defined by Government Code Section 51104(g))?
No Impact. The planning area does not contain zoning for forest land, timberland or Timberland
Protection.3 Additionally, the Housing Element Update does not propose to change existing
zoning districts. Therefore, the Project would not conflict with existing zoning for, or cause
rezoning of, forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.2.d.
Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use?
No Impact. The planning area does not contain forest land. Therefore, Project implementation
would not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non-forest use.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.2.e.
Involve other changes in the existing environment, which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use?
Less Than Significant Impact. The General Plan contains the RA (Resource Area) land use
designation, which is intended to allow for the continued use of mining activities and agricultural
uses. The City also established the Agricultural Zoning District to preserve its agricultural
production areas.
The housing opportunity sites do not involve these agriculturally
designated/zoned sites. The Housing Element Update does not propose to change existing land
use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, would result in a less than significant impact
involving changes in the existing environment that could result in conversion of Farmland to
non-agricultural use.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
2
City of Orange Website, Zoning Map, http://gis.cityoforange.org/Maps/WallMaps/Zoning_1000scale.
pdf, Accessed October 6, 2013.
3
City of Orange Website, Zoning Map, http://gis.cityoforange.org/Maps/WallMaps/Zoning_1000scale.
pdf, Accessed October 6, 2013.
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
4.3
AIR QUALITY
Where available, the significance criteria
established by the applicable air quality
management or air pollution control district may
be relied upon to make the following
determinations. Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan?
Violate any air quality standard or contribute
substantially to an existing or projected air
quality violation?
Result in a cumulatively considerable net
increase of any criteria pollutant for which the
project region is non-attainment under an
applicable federal or state ambient air quality
standard (including releasing emissions which
exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone
precursors)?
Expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations?
Create objectionable odors affecting a
substantial number of people?
4.3.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact


No
Impact





Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Orange is located within the
South Coast Air Basin (SCAB), which is considered a nonattainment area due to exceedances of
the California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for ozone and inhalable particulate
matter (PM10). The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is the regulatory
agency responsible for ensuring that the SCAB meets or has plans to meet both state and federal
air quality standards. The General Plan PEIR concluded that buildout of the General Plan would
result in emissions in excess of thresholds for criteria air pollutants and precursors for which the
region is in nonattainment and would increase population (and thus Vehicle Miles Traveled)
beyond that anticipated by SCAG. The earlier analysis concluded that buildout would conflict
with SCAQMD air quality planning efforts and impede attainment of the Air Quality
Management Plan (AQMP). Even with implementation of applicable General Plan Policies and
Regulations, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-1 through 5.3-7, this impact would
be significant and unavoidable.
As the Housing Element Update contains an evaluation of potential housing units as a collective
whole, no specific development proposals are included, no emission calculations are necessary in
the preparation of this Initial Study. Notwithstanding, the Housing Element’s identified RHNA
need is 363 dwelling units and the potential development yield from the current projects, vacant
land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling units. Residential development in accordance with the
Housing Element would result in 50,917 units City-wide. The Project’s anticipated residential
development would generate pollutant emissions associated with stationary sources, mobile
sources (new vehicular trips), and off-site power and natural gas generation, which could
contribute to the City’s potential conflicts with the AQMP. However, because the General Plan
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the
Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the
General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land
use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those relating to consistency with the AQMP, have already been adequately analyzed in
the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be reduced through compliance with SCAQMD Rules,
General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. No new significant impact
involving AQMP consistency or substantial increase in the severity of previously identified
significant impacts would occur with Project implementation. Individual project proposals
would require review under CEQA to specifically evaluate potential impacts to air quality.
Individual project proposals would be subject to compliance with the CEQA Air Quality
Handbook and follow required criteria in order to determine consistency with SCAQMD and
SCAG policies. SCAQMD methodologies require that an air quality analysis for a project
include forecasts of project emissions in a regional context during short-term construction and
long-term operations. The individual projects would be required to focus on whether or not the
projects exceed the assumptions utilized in preparing the forecasts presented in the AQMP. In
addition, new residential development in the City must comply with the Residential Districts’
development standards (Code Chapter 17.14, Residential Districts), which regulate maximum
allowable residential density. Implementation of the Housing Element is consistent with the
Land Use Element, which ensures that growth in the City is consistent with the AQMP.
Individual residential development proposals would be evaluated in detail to determine their
consistency with the AQMP.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-1 through 5.3-7 in
Section 5.0.
4.3.b.
Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or
projected air quality violation?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analyzed impacts to air quality from both short-term construction and long-term operational air
quality emissions. Relating to short-term impacts, the earlier analysis concluded that due to the
large amount of development and potential for simultaneous construction of multiple sites, the
nonattainment status of the SCAB, and modeled emissions that exceeded applicable thresholds,
implementation of the General Plan could result in or substantially contribute to an air quality
violation. Compliance with General Plan Policies, relevant SCAQMD rules, and implementation
of General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-1 and 5.3-7 would reduce short-term,
construction-related emissions, but not to a less than significant level. Regarding long-term
impacts to air quality, the General Plan PEIR concluded that mobile and stationary sources
would create a significant impact to air quality. Following compliance with General Plan
Policies and SCAQMD rules, and implementation of General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures
5.3-1 through 5.3-7, operational impacts at a programmatic level would be reduced, but not to a
less than significant level. As a result, this impact would remain significant and unavoidable.
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Environmental Analysis
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
As the Housing Element Update contains an evaluation of potential housing units as a collective
whole, no specific development proposals are included, no emission calculations are necessary in
the preparation of this Initial Study. Notwithstanding, the Housing Element’s identified RHNA
need is 363 dwelling units and the potential development yield from the current projects, vacant
land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling units. Residential development in accordance with the
Housing Element would result in 50,917 units City-wide. Construction activities associated with
the anticipated residential developments would generate construction-related emissions,
including but not limited to site grading, operation of construction equipment, and construction
vehicle activities. Additionally, the anticipated residential development would generate pollutant
emissions associated with stationary sources, mobile sources (new vehicular trips), and off-site
power and natural gas generation. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the
impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated
residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR.
Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or
zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects
resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating
to air quality standards, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR
and can be reduced through compliance with SCAQMD Rules, General Plan Policies, and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Future development proposals would be analyzed
individually for potential impacts to air quality and to determine compliance with applicable
State and Federal ambient air quality standards. Individual residential project would be required
to comply with the CEQA Air Quality Handbook and follow criteria to determine consistency
with SCAQMD and SCAG policies. If necessary, mitigation would be recommended for
individual proposals when site-specific analysis is conducted to reduce potential air quality
impacts to less than significant. No new significant air quality impact or substantial increase in
the severity of previously identified significant impacts would occur with Project
implementation.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-1 through 5.3-7 in
Section 5.0.
4.3.c.
Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for
which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state
ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions, which exceed
quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.3.a.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-1 through 5.3-7 in
Section 5.0.
4.3.d.
Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analyzed impacts from toxic air contaminants (TACs) on sensitive air quality receptors from
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
development under the General Plan. The earlier analysis concluded that impacts from TACs to
sensitive receptors could occur from four sources: 1) construction sources (impact would be less
than significant without mitigation); 2) operational stationary sources (impact would be less than
significant without mitigation); 3) operational mobile sources (impact would remain significant
after implementation of Mitigation Measure 5.3-7 and General Plan Policies) and 4) operational
off-site rail traffic sources (impact would be less than significant without mitigation). The
General Plan PEIR also analyzed potential impacts related to carbon monoxide (CO) hotspots
from General Plan buildout traffic. The analysis concluded that mobile-source emissions of CO
generated by the General Plan over the long term would not violate or substantially contribute to
a violation of the CAAQS or NAAQS, or expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant
concentrations. As a result, this impact would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Depending on the location, construction of individual residential projects could
potentially lead to fugitive emissions and other pollutants affecting sensitive land uses.
Increased traffic volumes on City streets could also lead to increases in traffic congestion and
associated vehicle emissions, which could create CO hotspots that impact sensitive receptors.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does
not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those involving the exposure of sensitive receptors
to pollutant concentrations, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan
PEIR and can be mitigated to less than significant through compliance with the General Plan
PEIR mitigation measure. Future development proposals would be analyzed individually for
potential impacts involving TACs.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measure 5.3-7 in Section 5.0.
4.3.e.
Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people?
Less Than Significant Impact. The General Plan PEIR (NOP/IS) concluded that development
according to the General Plan does not have the potential to create objectionable odors.
The SCAQMD Handbook states that land uses associated with odor complaints typically include
agricultural uses, wastewater treatment plants, food processing plants, chemical plants,
composting, refineries, landfills, dairies, and fiberglass molding. The Project does not involve
these types of land uses. Therefore, Project implementation would not create objectionable
odors affecting a substantial number of people.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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Environmental Analysis
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
4.4
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly
or through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special
status species in local or regional plans, policies,
or regulations, or by the California Department of
Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community
identified in local or regional plans, policies,
regulations or by the California Department of
Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service?
Have a substantial adverse effect on federally
protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to,
marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct
removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means?
Interfere substantially with the movement of any
native resident or migratory fish or wildlife
species or with established native resident or
migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of
native wildlife nursery sites?
Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other approved local,
regional, or state habitat conservation plan?
4.4.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact









Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications,
on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local
or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analyzed impacts to sensitive habitats and species on a program-level. The majority of
development allowed by the General Plan would occur through infill, redevelopment, and
intensification in urbanized Focus Areas. Development in these areas is not expected to affect
sensitive species as these areas are already urbanized. The General Plan PEIR states that
grading, excavation, and construction activities associated with development permitted by the
General Plan in the planning area’s eastern portion may potentially impact sensitive species and
their habitats. Development within these areas may reduce existing habitat for some special
status plant and wildlife species due to increases in lighting, noise, pets, and fragmentation of
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Environmental Analysis
City of Orange Housing Element Update
Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
wildlife habitat. These factors may also disrupt wildlife movement along established corridors.
General Plan PEIR Figure 5.4-2, NCCP Habitat Reserve Area, shows the areas designated as
NCCP Habitat Reserve. However, the City’s participation in the Orange County Central/Coastal
NCCP process as a signatory to the implementation agreement provides the means to mitigate
direct and indirect impacts to the 39 species and four covered habitats identified within
designated development sites in the NCCP/HCP area and allows development to proceed in areas
not designated as “Reserve” and “Non-Reserve Open Space” as shown in General Plan PEIR
Figure 5.4-2. Impacts to sensitive natural communities due to development in East Orange were
analyzed and mitigation measures were required as part of the East Orange EIR and previous
development plan approval. The specific impact to sensitive species from future development in
the planning area could not be determined at General Plan level of analysis because no precise
development projects that would follow the General Plan update were known at the time of
General Plan PEIR preparation. Therefore, the General Plan PEIR determined that impacts at the
program level of analysis would be potentially significant. Following compliance with General
Plan Policies and Regulations, and implementation of General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures
5.4-1 and 5.4-2, program-level impacts to sensitive species would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. According to General Plan PEIR Figure 5.4-2, the Project’s housing
opportunity sites do not involve lands designated “Reserve” or “Non-Reserve Open Space.” The
anticipated residential in the planning area’s eastern portion could have an adverse effect on
species identified as candidate, sensitive, or special status. The majority of future residential
construction under the Housing Element is envisioned to occur via infill and redevelopment on
already developed properties within Focus Areas west of the SR-55 and would not impact natural
plant communities or wildlife. However, residential development on naturally vegetated vacant
land and within the East Orange area (where residential development is entitled, but not yet
constructed) would develop undisturbed areas, which could impact sensitive vegetation
communities, and individual plant and wildlife species. The most notable impact would involve
removal of sensitive vegetation communities and individual species for building pad
development, and building and roadway construction. The General Plan designates a substantial
amount of open space, which would be preserved, thereby reducing potential impacts to sensitive
biological resources to less than significant at a City-wide scale. It is also noted, because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed
in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing
land use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting
from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those involving
candidate, sensitive, or special status species, have already been adequately analyzed in the
earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through the
development review process and compliance with Municipal Code and General Plan Policies and
regulations, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Future residential proposals could
require individual assessments to determine potential impacts to biological resources and
compliance with USFWS, CDFW, and NCCP/HCP requirements. If necessary, mitigation
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
would be required to reduce potential biological impacts to less than significant on a site-specific
basis.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-1 through 5.4-6 in
Section 5.0.
4.4.b.
Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Much of the land directly
adjacent to riparian areas in the planning area, such as the Santa Ana River, Santiago Creek,
Irvine Lake, Villa Park Reservoir, and Peters Canyon Reservoir, is designated as Open Space or
Open Space Park in the General Plan. Except for some recreational uses, development is
generally prohibited within these land use designations. The specific impact to riparian habitat
and wetlands from future development in the planning area was not determined at the General
Plan level of analysis because no precise land development projects were proposed. Therefore,
the General Plan PEIR concluded that impacts at the program level of analysis would be
potentially significant. With adherence to General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General
Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-3 and 5.4-4, program-level impacts to riparian habitat and
wetlands would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Most of the anticipated residential development would occur via infill and
redevelopment within Focus Areas west of SR-55 and would not impact riparian habitat,
sensitive natural communities, or wetlands. Residential development on naturally vegetated land
within the planning area’s eastern portion could impact these resources, should they exist on or
adjacent to the development site. These habitats vary in wildlife value, thus, the significance of
impacts would also vary. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide (including development in East Orange),
the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the
General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element Update does not propose to change existing
land use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting
from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to
riparian habitat, sensitive natural communities, or wetlands, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant
through compliance with Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) regulations under Section 404,
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations under Sections 1601-1603,
General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Any
disruption of wetland or riparian habitat would require consultation with these two agencies.
Additionally, impacts to riparian habitat, sensitive natural communities, or wetlands in East
Orange would be mitigated to a level of less than significant and would be protected through
avoidance, habitat restoration, and preservation per mitigation measures adopted in the 2005 East
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Environmental Analysis
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Orange EIR.
Notwithstanding, future site-specific proposals would require individual
assessments of potential impacts to these biological resources and site-specific mitigation
measures would be required at that time.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-1 through 5.4-6 in
Section 5.0.
4.4.c.
Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal
pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or
other means?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.4.b.
Mitigation Measures:
Section 5.0.
4.4.d.
See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measure 5.4-1 through 5.4-6 in
Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish
or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife
corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analyzed impacts to the movement of native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species on a
program-level. It concluded that the specific impact to native and migratory species from future
development in the planning area cannot be determined at the General Plan level of analysis
because no precise land development projects were proposed. The General Plan PEIR
concluded, therefore, that impacts at the program level of analysis were determined to be
potentially significant. With adherence to General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General
Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-1 and 5.4-2, program-level impacts to riparian habitat and
wetlands would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The majority of the anticipated residential development is envisioned to occur
on already developed properties within Focus Areas west of the SR-55 and would not affect
wildlife movement corridors. Further, the housing opportunity sites are isolated remnant parcels,
which do not provide significant connectivity to open space resources. Therefore, the anticipated
residential development would not remove natural areas that presently allow relatively
unrestricted wildlife movement through a variety of habitats. The City of Orange General Plan
designates a substantial amount of open space, which would be preserved, thereby minimizing
potential impacts to wildlife corridors to less than significant at the City-wide scale. As the
Project would not result in changes in land use designations or zoning districts, or development
in areas not anticipated in the General Plan PEIR, impacts to wildlife corridors would not be
occur beyond those already analyzed in the General Plan PEIR.
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-1 and 5.4-2 in Section
5.0.
4.4.e.
Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such
as a tree preservation policy or ordinance?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analyzed impacts from General Plan buildout and consistency with local measures protecting
biological resources. The City’s participation in the NCCP program, its Master Street Tree Plan,
and the Tree Preservation Ordinance are the primary local measures to protect biological
resources; refer to Section 4.4.f below for analysis relating to the NCCP. The General Plan PEIR
concluded that the Master Street Tree Plan and the Tree Preservation Ordinance are effective
procedures to monitor the potential for impacts to existing trees that provide roosting and nesting
habitat for native and migratory birds throughout the City. The General Plan PEIR stated that
redevelopment activities permitted under the General Plan would potentially put existing trees at
risk of removal. However, the Master Street Tree Plan and the Tree Preservation Ordinance,
together with the City’s existing development review and CEQA compliance procedures, would
provide an effective means to monitor and avoid potential impacts to trees during redevelopment.
Therefore, potential conflicts with local measures protecting biological resources would be less
than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The majority of the anticipated residential development would occur on already
developed properties within Focus Areas west of the SR-55 and would not impact protected
trees. However, residential development on naturally vegetated vacant land and within the East
Orange area (where residential development is entitled but not yet constructed) could require tree
removal, which could impact roosting and nesting habitat for native and migratory birds.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General
Plan PEIR, the Housing Element anticipates future housing units primarily being developed
through infill and redevelopment activities on already development sites within the eight Focus
Areas. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations
or zoning districts. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing
Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to compliance with local
measures protecting biological resources, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier
General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/reduced to less than significant through the City’s
development review process, together with compliance with the Master Street Tree Plan and
Tree Preservation Ordinance.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
4.4.f.
Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. A portion of the City’s open
space is located within the 37,380 acres for open space preserve established by the Orange
County Central/Coastal NCCP and HCP. The NCCP/HCP seeks to identify and protect
individual species whose numbers have declined significantly by conserving natural
communities at the ecosystem level while accommodating compatible land uses. The City
participates in the NCCP process as a signatory to the implementation agreement. The measures
contained in the NCCP/HCP mitigate direct and indirect impacts to the 39 species and four
covered habitats identified within designated development sites in the NCCP/HCP area and
allow development to proceed in areas not designated as “Reserve” and “Non-Reserve Open
Space” as shown in General Plan PEIR Figure 5.4-2, NCCP Habitat Reserve Areas. The General
Plan PEIR concludes that the General Plan is consistent with the NCCP/HCP and includes
implementation programs to continue efforts to identify and conserve lands suitable for inclusion
in the open space Reserve system and for collection of “in-lieu” fees to the NROC for the native
areas that would be removed due to development. Further, the General Plan PEIR states that
continued participation in the NCCP/HCP implementation programs would reduce any
significant impact on local habitat conservation planning efforts. However, as development in
and adjacent to existing natural areas located in the urbanized portion of the City continues as
part of General Plan development, direct and indirect impacts to natural areas interface planning
could occur and would be potentially significant. The General Plan PEIR concluded that with
adherence to General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation
Measures 5.4-5 and 5.4-6, program-level impacts to habitat conservation planning would be less
than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. According to General Plan PEIR Figure 5.4-2, the housing opportunity sites do
not involve lands designated “Reserve” or “Non-Reserve Open Space.”
Therefore,
implementation of the Housing Element Update would not conflict with provisions of an adopted
HCP, NCCP, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan. Because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed
in the General Plan PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing
Element anticipates future housing units primarily being developed through infill and
redevelopment activities on already development sites within the eight Focus Areas. Finally, the
Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts.
Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those involving consistency with the NCCP/HCP, have already
been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less
than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General
Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo project-specific
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environmental review. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation
measures would be required.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-5 and 5.4-6 in Section
5.0.
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4.5
CULTURAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource as defined
in CEQA Guidelines §15064.5?
Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15064.5?
Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
Disturb any human remains, including those
interred outside of formal cemeteries?
4.5.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact


No
Impact





Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as
defined in CEQA Guidelines §15064.5?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The City of Orange contains
a variety of historic resources, including Federal, State, and locally recognized resources.
Known historic resources are located primarily in the Old Towne Orange Historic District; see
General Plan PEIR Figure 5.5-1, Designated Historic Resources. The planning area also
contains designated historic resources located outside of Old Towne, including the Olive Civic
Center and Irvine Regional Park. The General Plan Cultural Resources and Historic Preservation
Element has identified several other resources intended for designation within the City, including
historic districts, Neighborhood Character Areas (NCAs), and individual resources; see General
Plan PEIR Figure 5.5-3, Resources Recommended for Designation.
The General Plan PEIR analysis states that historic resources could be vulnerable to unchecked
development activities and infrastructure or other public works improvements, and such
development could result in damage to or demolition of historic resources. The earlier analysis
concluded that this is a potentially significant impact but implementation of existing regulations
(such as compliance with the City’s Old Towne Design Standards) and General Plan Policies
would adequately control and regulate activities with the potential to impact historic resources.
The General Plan also includes an Implementation Plan that identifies specific Implementation
Programs to achieve the Goals and Policies. The General Plan PEIR concluded that with
adherence to General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation
Measures 5.5-1 through 5.5-9, and 5.5-12 through 5.5-14, program-level impacts to historic
resources would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The anticipated residential development under the Housing Element could
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cause impacts to historical resources due to development activity in the Old Towne Focus Area.
However, future residential development in Old Towne is envisioned as adaptive reuse of
historic buildings or as infill, and mixed use development designed to be contextually
appropriate with the historic district. Further, any development in Old Towne is required to
comply with the Old Towne design Standards and other regulations aimed at achieving historic
preservation objectives. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide (including development in the Old Towne
Focus Area), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and
analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Project does not propose to change existing land
use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from
the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to historic
resources, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and
Regulations, Old Towne Design Standards, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. The
individual residential developments would undergo project-specific environmental review and
approval by the City’s Historic Preservation Planner, Design Review Committee, and ultimately
the City Council (as applicable). If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific
mitigation measures would be required.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.5-1 through 5.5-10, and
5.5-12 through 5.5-14 in Section 5.0.
4.5.b.
Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to CEQA Guidelines §15064.5?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analysis states that there is a potential for unknown and previously undisturbed archaeological
and paleontological resources to be found within the developed areas of the planning area, such
as the Focus Areas, as redevelopment activities occur. As illustrated in General Plan PEIR
Figure 5.5-2, Historical Archaeology Sensitivity, the planning area contains numerous areas of
historical archaeological sensitivity. Although the majority of archaeological resources have
been found east of Orange in upland, hill, and valley locations with a few exceptions, areas with
historical archaeological sensitivity overlap with the Focus Areas. The General Plan PEIR
concluded that this was a potentially significant impact. There are a number of Federal, State,
and local regulations in place to protect cultural resources. Additionally, the General Plan
Policies include various regulations and incentives aimed at preserving cultural resources, and an
Implementation Plan that identifies specific Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals and
Policies. The General Plan PEIR concluded that with adherence to General Plan Policies and
Regulations, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.5-1, 5.5-10 and 5.5-11, programlevel impacts to archaeological and paleontological resources, and human remains would be less
than significant.
The City is highly urbanized and almost entirely built out. The Housing Element’s identified
RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential development yield from the current projects,
vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling units. Residential development in accordance
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with the Housing Element would result in 50,917 units City-wide. With the exception of the
East Orange area, the housing opportunity sites involve mostly already developed areas (i.e.,
Focus Areas west of SR-55) and a few small vacant remnant parcels, which have already been
subject to extensive disruption and may contain artificial fill materials. As such, any
archaeological or paleontological resources, which may have existed within the Project’s housing
opportunity sites, have likely been disturbed. In the East Orange area, the potential for
archeological sites has already been evaluated and mitigation measures required in the 2005 East
Orange/Santiago Hills II EIR, reducing impacts to less than significant. Notwithstanding,
ground-disturbing activities, such as grading or excavation, could unearth undocumented
archaeological or paleontological resources. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed
the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide (including development in
the East Orange area), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted
for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to
change existing land use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, all potentially significant
effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those
relating to archaeological and paleontological resources, have already been adequately analyzed
in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through
compliance with General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR mitigation
measures. Individual residential projects would undergo project specific environmental review.
If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required
under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.5-1, 5.5-3, 5.5-5, 5.5-10,
and 5.5-11 in Section 5.0.
4.5.c.
Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.5.b.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.5-1, 5.5-3, 5.5-5, 5.5-10,
and 5.5-11 in Section 5.0.
4.5.d.
Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries?
Less Than Significant Impact. No conditions exist that suggest human remains are likely to be
found on the housing opportunity sites. Due to the level of past disturbance on these sites, it is
not anticipated that human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries, would
be encountered during earth removal or disturbance activities. Notwithstanding, given the nature
of the planning area and its surrounding environment, ground-disturbing activities, such as
grading or excavation activities associated with the anticipated residential development have the
potential to disturb unknown human remains. If human remains were found, those remains
would require proper treatment, in accordance with applicable laws. State of California Public
Resources Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5-7055 describe the general provisions for
human remains. Specifically, Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 describes the requirements
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if any human remains are accidentally discovered during excavation of a site. As required by
State law, the requirements and procedures set forth in PRC Section 5097.98 would be
implemented, including notification of the County Coroner, notification of the Native American
Heritage Commission, and consultation with the individual identified by the Native American
Heritage Commission to be the “most likely descendant.” If human remains are found during
excavation, excavation must stop in the vicinity of the find and any area that is reasonably
suspected to overly adjacent remains until the County coroner has been called out, and the
remains have been investigated and appropriate recommendations have been made for the
treatment and disposition of the remains. Following compliance with State regulations, which
detail the appropriate actions necessary in the event human remains are encountered, impacts
would be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.6
GEOLOGY AND SOILS
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Expose people or structures to potential
substantial adverse effects, including the risk of
loss, injury, or death involving:
1) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent AlquistPriolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map
issued by the State Geologist for the area
or based on other substantial evidence of
a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines
and Geology Special Publication 42.
2) Strong seismic ground shaking?
3) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
4) Landslides?
Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of
topsoil?
Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is
unstable, or that would become unstable as a
result of the project, and potentially result in onsite or off-site landslide, lateral spreading,
subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?
Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
Table 18-1-B of the California Building Code
(2004), creating substantial risks to life or
property?
Have soils incapable of adequately supporting
the use of septic tanks or alternative waste
water disposal systems where sewers are not
available for the disposal of waste water?
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact














4.6.a
Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the
risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
4.6.a.1.
Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent AlquistPriolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or
based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines
and Geology Special Publication 42.
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Fault rupture is defined as
the breakage of ground along the surface trace of a fault caused by the intersection of the fault
surface area ruptured in an earthquake with the Earth’s surface. Although the planning area does
not contain any Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones, fault rupture could occur along traces of
the two local faults (Peralta Hills Thrust and El Modena faults that traverse the planning area; see
General Plan Figure 5.6-1, Regional Fault Location Map, and Figure 5.6-2, Environmental and
Natural Hazard Policy Map. The General Plan PEIR analysis states that if new development
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adjacent to the faults occurred under the General Plan, it would have the potential to expose
additional people and/or structures to hazards in the event of fault rupture. The General Plan
PEIR concluded that this was a potentially significant impact. However, there are regulations in
place to protect structures and people from geologic hazards and the General Plan PEIR
concludes that potential impacts related to new development are adequately mitigated through
implementation of these regulations. The General Plan also includes an Implementation Plan
that identifies specific Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals and Policies. The General
Plan PEIR concluded that adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan
Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-4 would reduce potential
seismic effects of fault rupture to less than significant at the program-level of analysis.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Depending upon the location of the development site, future residential
development anticipated by the Housing Element Update could expose people or structures to
adverse effects involving surface rupture and/or ground displacement. Several Housing Element
housing opportunity sites are located adjacent and in close proximity to the Peralta Hills Thrust
or El Modena Faults, or the area’s numerous fracture planes, which could result in surface
rupture and/or ground displacement. Structures built on or near these faults or fracture planes
could sustain damage as a result of such movement. However, because the General Plan PEIR
analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s
anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan
PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use
designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those relating to surface rupture and/or ground displacement, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than
significant through compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies,
and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo
project-specific environmental review. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific
mitigation measures would be required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-3, 5.7-3,
5.7-4, 5.7-6, and 5.7-7 in Section 5.0.
4.6.a.2.
Strong seismic ground shaking?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Ground shaking may occur
during earthquakes along any of the large regional faults located near the planning area.
Although these faults do not traverse the planning area, the ground shaking produced during an
earthquake along with the Whittier-Elsinore, Newport-Inglewood, San Andreas, or San Jacinto
faults has the potential to affect the planning area. The potential for ground shaking within the
planning area depends on the distance to the fault and the intensity of a specific seismic event
along that fault. Areas underlain by bedrock at shallow depths (the planning area’s eastern
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portion) would tend to be less affected than areas underlain by thick sequences of unconsolidated
alluvium. The local faults traversing the planning area (Peralta Hills and El Modena faults) are
not considered capable of producing major earthquakes and severe ground shaking. The hazards
associated with earthquakes vary and depend on a number of factors including fault location, the
level of fault activity, and the underlying geologic structure, similar to risk/damage experienced
all over seismically active southern California.
The General Plan PEIR concluded that the entire planning area is at risk for damage caused by
ground shaking and that development under the General Plan has the potential to expose
additional people and/or structures to the hazards caused by ground shaking. The General Plan
PEIR concluded that this was a potentially significant impact. Adherence to Federal, State, and
local regulations such as OMC (Building Code) requirements for earthquake design, General
Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-3, impacts from
seismic effects of ground shaking would be less than significant level at the program-level of
analysis.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Future residential development anticipated by the Housing Element Update
could expose people or structures to adverse effects involving strong seismic ground shaking.
The degree of potential impact would depend on the distance to the fault and the intensity of a
specific seismic event along that fault. Because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential
development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the
Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts,
or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to strong seismic
ground shaking, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can
be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with Federal, State, and local
regulations, General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual
residential projects would undergo project-specific environmental review. If project-level
significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-3, 5.7-3,
5.7-4, 5.7-6, and 5.7-7 in Section 5.0.
4.6.a.3.
Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Liquefaction occurs when
seismic-induced ground shaking causes water-laden, cohesionless soils to form a quicksand-like
condition below the ground surface. General Plan PEIR Figure 5.6-2 Environmental and
Natural Hazard Policy Map, presents illustrates the environmental hazards that exist in the
planning area, including the liquefaction zones. The General Plan PEIR analysis states that in
the event of a major earthquake, buildings in the designated liquefaction zones that are not
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anchored to bedrock material could suffer damage or failure, resulting in property loss and
potential harm to persons within said buildings. The General Plan PEIR concluded that
development under the General Plan in liquefaction areas has the potential to expose additional
people and/or structures to the hazards caused by liquefaction resulting in potentially significant
impact. However, with adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies,
and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-4 requiring site-specific
geotechnical studies and project-level mitigation addressing liquefaction, impacts from the
effects of liquefaction would be reduced to less than significant at the program-level of analysis.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Portions of most Focus Areas are located within liquefaction hazard areas.
Several housing opportunity sites are located adjacent and in close proximity to liquefaction
zones. Depending upon the location of the development site, future residential development
anticipated by the Housing Element could expose people or structures to adverse effects
involving seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction. However, because the General
Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the
Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the
General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land
use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those relating to seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than
significant through compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies,
and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures. As part of the City’s development review process,
Individual residential projects would undergo project-specific environmental review and
depending on their location, could require a geotechnical investigation to identify necessary
improvements and ensure long-term geotechnical stability. If project-level significant impacts
are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required under CEQA. All future
residential developments would be designed to resist seismic forces in accordance with the
criteria and seismic design parameters contained in the most current version of the Uniform
Building Code (UBC) for Seismic Zone 4, Title 24 of the California Building Code (CBC), and
the Structural Engineers Association of California standards.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-3 in
Section 5.0.
4.6.a.4.
Landslides?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Earthquake-induced
landslides can occur in areas underlain by bedrock at shallow depths, where the direction of the
bedding trends generally downhill and beds of rock can slip by one another. Landslides are most
probable in poorly consolidated or semi-consolidated sedimentary rock. The low hills of the
northern and planning area’s eastern portion have been designated as susceptible to earthquake-
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induced landslides (see General Plan PEIR Figure 5.6-2, Environmental and Natural Hazard
Policy Map) and currently contain open space as well as existing residential development. The
General Plan PEIR analysis states that buildings, roadways, utilities, persons, and the like located
within or below these hazard areas could be subject to severe damage or injury in the event of an
earthquake-induced landslide. The General Plan allows development to occur in the vicinity of
areas identified as landslide hazard areas; although the level of development is likely to be more
limited in these areas as a result of landslide hazards. Focus Areas are not within landslide areas.
The General Plan PEIR concluded that if new development occurs in landslide areas under the
General Plan, it has the potential to expose additional people and/or structures to earthquakeinduced landslides; thus, creating a potentially significant impact. The General Plan PEIR
concludes that adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations such as CBC requirements,
General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-4 requiring
site-specific geotechnical studies and project-level mitigation for projects in landslide areas
would reduce the seismic effects of earthquake-induced landslides to less than significant at the
program-level of analysis.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Future residential development anticipated by the Housing Element Update
could expose people or structures to adverse effects involving landslide hazards. However,
residential development anticipated by the Housing Element would primarily occur as infill or
redevelopment in already urbanized Focus Areas located west of SR-55, which are outside of
landslide hazard areas. Future residential development in the eastern portion of the City within
landslide hazard areas would be required to consider the potential for slope failure and the
potential effects of unstable slopes where stabilization techniques may be required on a sitespecific basis. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential
development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the
Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts,
or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to landslides, have
already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated
to less than significant through compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations, General
Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would
undergo project-specific environmental review and those proposed in areas with geologic
hazards would be required to prepare geologic studies and incorporate mitigation measures into
project design to ensure development is not adversely impacted by these hazards. Specifically,
as part of the City’s development review process, geotechnical studies would be prepared to
identify necessary improvements to ensure long-term geotechnical stability. Future residential
development would be required to consider the potential for slope failure and the potential
effects of unstable slopes where stabilization techniques may be required. All future residential
development would be designed pursuant to UBC, CBC, and Structural Engineers Association of
California standards. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation
measures would be required under CEQA.
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Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-3, 5.7-3,
5.7-6, and 5.7-7 in Section 5.0.
4.6.b.
Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analysis states that the planning area’s eastern portion is susceptible to soil erosion due to the
hilly topography, where the General Plan allows development to occur. Additionally, the
urbanized portion of the planning area could also be susceptible to erosion from wind and storm
water runoff associated with development activities. The General Plan PEIR concluded that
development under the General Plan has the potential to increase soil erosion if undertaken
without erosion control; thereby resulting in a potentially significant impact. It further concludes
that with adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations (such as National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) requirements for a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP) and compliance with the City’s Grading Ordinance), General Plan Policies, and
General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measure 5.6-4 requiring development activities to implement
erosion control measures during construction, impacts related to erosion would be reduced to less
than significant at the program-level of analysis.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Vacant housing opportunities sites, particularly those in the planning area’s
eastern portion that exhibit hilly terrain, are susceptible to soil erosion during construction.
Clearing and grading for construction associated with future residential developments anticipated
by the proposed Housing Element Update would expose soils to short-term erosion by wind and
water. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to
66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General
Plan PEIR, the Housing Element anticipates future housing units primarily being developed
through infill and redevelopment activities on already development sites within the eight Focus
Areas west of SR-55 where terrain is relatively flat and already developed. Finally, the Housing
Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts.
Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those relating to soil erosion, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant
through compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies, and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo projectspecific environmental review. Residential development sites encompassing one or more acres
would require compliance with the NPDES General Construction Permit and consequently the
development and implementation of a SWPPP; refer to Response 4.9.a below.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-4, 5.8-3, and 5.8-4 in
Section 5.0.
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4.6.c.
Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable
as a result of the project, and potentially result in an on-site or off-site landslide,
lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. As indicated in General
Plan PEIR Figure 5.6-2, Environmental and Natural Hazard Policy Map, the planning area
includes several abandoned and closed landfills. The General Plan PEIR states that due to their
past use as waste disposal sites and the ongoing decomposition of landfill waste, these landfill
areas may contain unstable geology and soils and lead to landslide, lateral spreading, or
subsidence. The General Plan PEIR concluded that development within hillside areas or on
abandoned landfill sites under the General Plan has the potential to expose additional people
and/or structures to landslides, lateral spreading, or subsidence from unstable geology; thereby
creating a potentially significant impact. The General Plan PEIR further concludes that
adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR
Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-5 would reduce the seismic effects of unstable geologic
units to less than significant at the program-level of analysis.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Depending on the location and characteristics of the housing opportunity sites,
future residential development anticipated by the Project could expose people or structures to
potential substantial adverse effects involving unstable geologic units. However, because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed
in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change
existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all
potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential
development, such as those relating to unstable geologic units, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant
through compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies, and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo projectspecific environmental review. All grading operations would be conducted in conformance with
the City’s Grading Ordinance and the most recent version of the UBC. Specifically, as part of
the City’s development review process, geotechnical studies would be prepared to identify
necessary improvements to ensure long-term geotechnical stability. If project-level significant
impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required under CEQA. Refer also
to Responses 4.6.a.3. and 4.6.a.4.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.6-1 through 5.6-3 in
Section 5.0.
4.6.d.
Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the California Building
Code (2004), creating substantial risks to life or property?
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Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Expansive soils are those
soils with a significant amount of clay particles that have the ability to give up water (shrink) or
take on water (swell). When these soils shrink or swell, the change in volume exerts significant
pressures on loads (such as buildings) that are placed on them. Depending upon the type and
amount of clay present in a geologic deposit, these volume changes (shrink and swell) can cause
severe damage to slabs, foundations, and concrete flatwork. The General Plan PEIR states that
development could occur in areas with expansive soil characteristics. The General Plan PEIR
concludes that adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations such as CBC requirements for
foundations, standard engineering techniques, and General Plan Policies, would reduce the
hazards associated with expansive soils to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Depending upon the location of the development site, future residential
development anticipated by the proposed Housing Element Update could be located on
expansive soils, creating risk to life or property, unless proper engineering techniques are
implemented. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of
up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was
already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing
Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or
increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to expansive soils,
have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
avoided/reduced to less than significant through compliance with Federal, State, and local
regulations, standard engineering techniques, and General Plan Policies. Individual residential
projects would undergo project-specific environmental review, and could require individual
assessments of potential geological impacts, including expansion potential. As part of the City’s
development review process, geotechnical studies would be prepared to identify necessary
improvements to ensure long-term geotechnical stability. Compliance with UBC and CBC
building standards and site-specific recommendations (if any) would sufficiently mitigate
impacts for geologic hazards.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.6.e.
Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative
waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of
waste water?
No Impact. The General Plan PEIR concluded that no impacts posed by soils with septic tank
limitations are expected.
The housing opportunity sites are located where sewers are available for disposal of wastewater.
Therefore, no impact would occur in this regard.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.7
GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Would the project:
a.
b.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either
directly or indirectly, that may have a significant
impact on the environment?
Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or
regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing
the emissions of greenhouse gases?
4.7.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact


Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a
significant impact on the environment?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. As shown in General Plan
PEIR Table 5.15-2, existing GHG emissions from VMT, building energy consumption, and the
embodied energy of water consumption were estimated to be approximately 2,072,493 MTCO2e
(metric tons of CO2 equivalent per year) in 2004, while GHG emissions under buildout of the
General Plan in 2030 are projected to be approximately 3,159,568 MTCO2e. This represents an
approximately 52 percent increase in GHG emissions. This increase would exceed the City’s
threshold of the emission of 10,000 metric tons per year CO2e equivalent for an individual
project’s contribution to the global GHG emissions environment resulting in a potentially
significant impact. The General Plan PEIR states that that the General Plan includes a variety of
Goals, Policies, and Implementation Programs that would reduce GHG emissions, such as
supporting transit-oriented development, mixed use development, alternative transportation such
as public transit and walking, and other activities that indirectly tend to reduce GHG emissions;
see General Plan PEIR Table 5-5-3. The General Plan PEIR states that most of the planning
area’s future growth would occur in eight already developed Focus Areas located adjacent to
existing transit services, employment centers, and commercial services, which would lead to a
reduction in vehicle trips. The earlier analysis concludes that this approach to accommodating
growth would substantially minimize GHGs produced in the future. The General Plan also
includes an Implementation Plan that identifies specific Implementation Programs to achieve the
Goals and Policies. The General Plan’s Implementation Plan contains Programs that when
developed, adopted, and implemented, would reduce/mitigate the cumulatively significant
incremental contribution to global climate change from General Plan implementation. In
particular, Implementation Program I-35 requires the City to develop and adopt a Climate Action
Plan (CAP), which would contain thorough GHG emission policies and measures to achieve the
reduction objective. The General Plan PEIR concluded that adherence to existing regulations,
General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.15-1 through 5.15-9 would
reduce GHG emissions, but not to less than significant. This impact would remain significant
and unavoidable for General Plan buildout on both an individual and cumulative level.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. As the Housing Element Update contains an evaluation of potential housing
units as a collective whole, no specific development proposals are included, no emission
calculations are necessary in the preparation of this Initial Study. Notwithstanding, the intensity
and duration of construction of the anticipated residential development would make an
incremental, cumulatively considerable contribution to GHG emissions. Construction would be
temporary, but resulting GHGs would persist in the atmosphere. The anticipated residential
development would also result in significant direct and indirect long-term GHG emissions.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does
not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to greenhouse gas emissions, have
already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be reduced through
compliance with existing regulations, General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation
Measures 5.15-1 through 5.15-9. When the CAP is adopted, future development would be
required to adhere to CAP policies to reduce GHG emissions. Individual project proposals
would be subject to review under CEQA, which would specifically evaluate potential impacts to
GHG. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be
required under CEQA. No new significant impacts or substantial increase in the severity of
previously identified significant impacts resulting from GHG emissions would occur with
Project implementation.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-3 through 5.3-5, 5.15-1,
and 5.15-2 in Section 5.0.
4.7.b.
Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of
reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. See Response 4.7.a above,
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-3 through 5.3-5, 5.15-1,
and 5.15-2 in Section 5.0.
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4.8
HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use,
or disposal of hazardous materials?
Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable
upset and accident conditions involving the
release of hazardous materials into the
environment?
Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous
or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or
waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or
proposed school?
Be located on a site, which is included on a list
of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant
to Government Code Section 65962.5, and, as
a result, would it create a significant hazard to
the public or the environment?
For a project located within an airport land use
plan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within two miles of a public airport or
public use airport, would the project result in a
safety hazard for people residing or working in
the project area?
For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip, would the project result in a safety
hazard for people residing or working in the
project area?
Impair implementation of or physically interfere
with an adopted emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
Expose people or structures to a significant risk
of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires,
including where wildlands are adjacent to
urbanized areas or where residences are
intermixed with wildlands?
4.8.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact








Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analysis states that certain commercial and industrial uses, and hospitals throughout the planning
area may transport, use, or dispose of hazardous materials. As a result, future development in
proximity to these uses could be exposed to hazardous materials. Future development could also
emit hazardous materials into the environment and may also subject existing development to
hazardous emissions, materials, and wastes. New residential and mixed use development in
areas previously zoned for commercial and industrial uses could lead to increased potential for
residential exposure to hazardous materials. Some of the Focus Areas are located adjacent to and
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on previously zoned commercial and industrial land, and one Focus Area (Chapman
Avenue/Tustin Street) is located in proximity to a former landfill. The General Plan PEIR
concluded that this was a potentially significant impact. There are a number of Federal, State,
and local regulations and policies that address hazardous materials. The General Plan includes a
variety of programs and actions to minimize risks to life, property, and the environment
associated with hazardous materials. The General Plan also includes an Implementation Plan
that identifies specific Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals, Policies, and Plans. The
General Plan PEIR concluded that with adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations,
General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-6,
and 5.7-7, program-level hazardous materials impacts would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Residential development does not involve the use of hazardous materials, thus,
would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through its routine,
transport, use or disposal. The secondary activities that would occur at the future residential
developments (e.g., building and landscape maintenance) would involve the use of limited
quantities of hazardous materials. Cleaning and degreasing solvents, fertilizers, pesticides and
other materials used in the regular maintenance of buildings and landscaping would be utilized
by future residential uses. Thus, the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development
would increase in the use of household cleaning products and other materials routinely used in
building maintenance. However, no significant/reportable quantities of hazardous materials
would be routinely transported, used, or disposed of utilized, disposed of or transported in
conjunction with future residential developments. With proper use and disposal, maintenance
chemicals are not expected to create hazardous or unhealthful conditions for future residents.
Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to
66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element does not
propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General
Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with
Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies and Regulations, and General Plan
PEIR Mitigation Measures.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-6 and 5.7-7 in
Section 5.0.
4.8.b.
Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably
foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
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Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
concluded that future development according to the General Plan could create a significant
hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident
conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment. The General Plan
PEIR concluded that with adherence to Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan
Policies and Regulations, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-6, and 5.7-7,
program-level hazardous materials impacts would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Residential development does not involve the use of hazardous materials, thus,
would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through accident
conditions involving the release of hazardous materials. Construction activities on housing
opportunity sites that were historically used for industrial or commercial purposes could release
hazardous materials into the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident
conditions. Demolition of structures could also expose construction personnel and the public to
hazardous substances such as asbestos containing materials (ACM), lead-based paints (LBP), or
other contaminants that may be present in building materials. Grading and excavation associated
with the anticipated residential development could expose construction workers and the public to
unidentified hazardous substances present in the soil or groundwater. However, because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed
in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change
existing land use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, all potentially significant effects
resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating
to accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant
through compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations, General Plan Policies and
Regulations, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Further, the General Plan requires that
plans for residential or mixed use projects on industrial or commercial lands undergo proper site
assessment and remediation prior to development.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-3, 5.7-6, and 5.77 in Section 5.0.
4.8.c.
Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school?
No Impact. The Housing Element’s anticipated residential developments would not emit or
handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials. Therefore, no impacts to school facilities
would occur in this regard.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.8.d.
Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites
compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it
create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?
No Impact. The General Plan PEIR (IS) concluded that no sites in Orange are listed on the
Department of Toxic Substances Control Hazardous Waste and Substance List (Cortese List).
Therefore, anticipated residential development on the housing opportunity sites would not be
located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites and, as a result, would
not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required..
4.8.e.
For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not
been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the
project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The planning area is not
located within two miles of an airport land use plan and there is no public airport, public use
airport, or private airstrip located within two miles of the planning area. Several helipads exist
within the planning area. The General Plan PEIR states that potentially, this could create an
airport hazard as additional development is built in the vicinity of helicopter flight paths. The
Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) was established to ensure that there are no direct
conflicts with land uses, noise, or other issues that would impact the functionality and safety of
heliport (and airport) operations. The ALUC established the Orange County Heliports Airport
Environs Land Use Plan (AELUP), which contains noise contours, restrictions for types of
construction and building heights in navigable air space, and requirements impacting the
establishment or construction of sensitive uses within close proximity to heliports. The General
Plan states that the City shall comply with the AELUP to ensure that future land uses located
near helipads remain compatible. Aircraft paths also cross air space between SR-55 and
Newport Boulevard. As such, the City is vulnerable to mid-air collisions of aircraft headed for
John Wayne Airport, the U.S. Army Airfield in Los Alamitos, and helicopters flying to medical
centers. The General Plan PEIR concluded that this represents a potentially significant impact.
General Plan Policies include actions aimed at reducing safety hazards associated with civilian,
military, and medical air traffic. The General Plan’s Implementation Plan also identifies specific
Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals, Policies, and Plans. The General Plan PEIR
concluded that with adherence to General Plan Regulations and Policies, and General Plan PEIR
Mitigation Measures 5.7-2 and 5.7-7, program-level impacts involving airport hazards would be
less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Since helicopters fly over Orange, the risk of an event occurring as the result of
an air accident exists. Depending on the location of the housing opportunity site, Project
implementation could result in an aircraft-related safety hazard for people residing or working in
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the development area. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential
development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally,
the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning
districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting
from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to
aircraft-related hazards, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR
and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with the established
regulatory framework (i.e., AELUP), General Plan Regulations and Policies, and General Plan
PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential developments would undergo project-specific
environmental review. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation
measures would be required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-2, 5.7-3, 5.7-6, and 5.77 in Section 5.0.
4.8.f.
For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a
safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.8.e.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-2, 5.7-3, 5.7-6, and 5.77 in Section 5.0.
4.8.g.
Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. According to the General
Plan PEIR, new development associated with the General Plan has the potential to impede
existing emergency access, in the short term, to some portions of the planning area in the event
of a disaster. The update of emergency access/evacuation plans may lag behind new
development, especially in areas where residential and commercial development did not
previously exist. Portions of the planning area may also be developed with limited access, which
could affect emergency response. Additionally, improvements to roadways associated with new
development could impede or slow emergency response during construction. Similarly,
development associated with the General Plan may also result in congestion along evacuation
routes, which could impede access by emergency vehicles. The General Plan PEIR concluded
that this is a potentially significant impact. The General Plan also includes an Implementation
Plan that identifies specific Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals, Policies and Plans.
The General Plan PEIR concluded that with adherence to General Plan Regulations and Policies,
and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-3, and 5.7-7, program-level emergency
response/evacuation plan impacts would be less than significant.
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Initial Study / Environmental Checklist
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This residential development could physically interfere with an adopted
emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan during roadway construction, when
emergency access/evacuation plans have not been updated, or where there is limited access.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does
not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to adopted emergency response or
evacuation plans, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and
can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan
Regulations and Policies, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential
projects would undergo project-specific environmental review. As conditions for approval, each
residential project would be required to meet City of Orange Fire Department standards and
regulations pertaining to emergency response access and evacuation procedures. If project-level
impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-3, 5.7-6, and 5.77 in Section 5.0.
4.8.h.
Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving
wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where
residences are intermixed with wildlands?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
states that development associated with the General Plan may occur within and adjacent to
wildlands, thereby exposing people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death
involving wildland fires. General Plan PEIR Figure 5.6-2, Environmental and Natural Hazard
Policy Map, shows the locations of wildland fire hazard areas and indicates they are generally
located east of Jamboree Road. New development in previously undeveloped areas, especially in
the hillsides and canyons of the planning area’s eastern portion, could increase risk of exposure
to wildfire hazards; thereby creating a potentially significant impact. None of the Focus Areas
are located within wildland areas. Pursuant to the General Plan, the City requires that new
developments be reviewed for fire services to ensure adequate emergency services and facilities
to residents and businesses. General Plan Policies include specific programs and actions aimed
at protecting the lives and property of Orange residents and businesses from urban and wildland
fire. The General Plan also includes an Implementation Plan that identifies specific
Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals, Policies, and Plans. The General Plan PEIR
concluded that with adherence to General Plan Regulations and Policies, and General Plan PEIR
Mitigation Measures 5.7-4 through 5.7-7, program-level wildland fire hazards impacts would be
less than significant.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Residential development within the planning area’s eastern portion could
expose people or structures to a significant risk involving wildland fires. However, because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed
in the General Plan PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing
Element anticipates future housing units primarily being developed through infill and
redevelopment activities on already development sites within the eight Focus Areas west of SR55 and outside of wildland fire areas. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change
existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all
potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential
development, such as those relating to wildland fire hazards, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant
through compliance with General Plan Regulations and Policies, and General Plan PEIR
mitigation measures.
Individual residential projects would undergo project-specific
environmental review and would be designed to minimize fire risks by meeting or exceeding
current Fire Code requirements. Future development located within or adjacent to wildland fire
areas as identified in General Plan PEIR Figure 5.6-2 would be required to prepare and
implement a comprehensive fuel modification program in accordance with the City of Orange
and County of Orange Fire Authority.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-4 through 5.7-7 in
Section 5.0.
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4.9
HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements?
Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater
recharge such that there would be a net deficit
in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local
groundwater table level (e.g., the production
rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to
a level which would not support existing land
uses or planned uses for which permits have
been granted)?
Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern
of the site or area, including through the
alteration of the course of stream or river, in a
manner, which would result in substantial
erosion or siltation on- or off-site?
Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern
of the site or area, including through the
alteration of the course of a stream or river, or
substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner, which would result
in flooding on- or off-site?
Create or contribute runoff which would exceed
the capacity of existing or planned storm water
drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff?
Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard
as mapped on a Federal Flood Hazard
Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or
other flood hazard delineation map?
Place within a 100-year flood hazard area
structures, which would impede or redirect
flood flows?
Expose people or structures to a significant risk
of loss, injury or death involving flooding,
including flooding as a result of the failure of a
levee or dam?
Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow?
Potentially impact stormwater runoff from
construction activities?
Potentially impact stormwater runoff from postconstruction activities?
Result in a potential for discharge of
stormwater pollutants from areas of material
storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle
or equipment maintenance (including washing),
waste handling, hazardous materials handling
or storage, delivery areas, loading docks or
other outdoor work areas?
November 2013
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact






















No
Impact




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Would the project:
n.
o.
p.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Result in the potential for discharge of
stormwater to affect the beneficial uses of
receiving waters?
Create the potential for significant changes in
the flow velocity or volume of stormwater runoff
to cause environmental harm?
Create significant increases in erosion of the
project site or surrounding areas?
4.9.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact









No
Impact
Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Construction activities
related to implementation of the General Plan could contribute additional pollutants, including
sediments from grading activities and contaminants associated with construction materials,
construction waste, vehicles, and equipment, among others. The General Plan PEIR concluded
that future infill development in the City’s existing urban areas is not expected to substantially
increase the amount of existing impervious surfaces and may provide opportunities to create new
pervious surfaces through new landscaping and use of porous pavements, which could reduce the
amount of runoff and associated pollutants. Additionally, existing drains typically are not
equipped with filters or cleaning systems and, consequently, can deliver polluted urban runoff
directly into local flood control channels and the receiving water bodies affecting their beneficial
use; see General Plan PEIR Table 5.8-2, Beneficial Uses of Receiving Waters. Thus,
implementation of the General Plan has the potential to violate water quality standards and waste
discharge requirements and the impacts would be potentially significant. Impacts related to
pollutants associated with impervious surfaces would be reduced primarily by City
implementation of Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) waste discharge permits
and through preparation and implementation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP), including identification of required Best Management Practices. A Water Quality
Management Plan (WQMP) would be required to identify permanent BMPs that would control
discharges to MS4s post-construction. Additionally, because much of the new development
permitted under the General Plan would be infill and redevelopment, site conditions and runoff
filtration measures would improve through retrofitting and the development review process.
With adherence to General Plan Regulations and Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation
Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4, program-level water quality impacts would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This residential development would result in water quality impacts during the
earthwork and construction phase (i.e., erosion, siltation, and sedimentation) and during the
operational phase (storm water and urban runoff). However, because the General Plan PEIR
analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City- wide, the Project’s
anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan
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PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use
designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those relating to water quality, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier
General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance
with the established regulatory framework (i.e., NPDES), General Plan Regulations and Policies,
and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo
project-specific environmental review and would be subject to compliance with NPDES
requirements. Residential development sites encompassing one or more acres would require
compliance with the NPDES General Construction Permit, which includes submitting a Notice
of Intent (NOI) for coverage, developing a SWPPP, and implementing BMPs. Orange County
cities and Orange County (collectively “the Co-permittees”) have developed the Orange County
Stormwater Program 2003 Drainage Area Management Plan (DAMP), which includes a New
Development/Significant Redevelopment Program.
The New Development/Significant
Redevelopment Program provides a framework and a process for following the NPDES permit
requirements and incorporates watershed protection/storm water quality management principles
into the Co-permittees’ General Plan process, environmental review process, and development
permit approval process. The City of Orange has adopted a Local Implementation Plan (LIP)
based upon the County’s DAMP, which includes a Model WQMP. Using the local LIP (i.e.,
July 2003 City of Orange Stormwater LIP) as a guide, the City approves project-specific
WQMPs, as part of the development plan and entitlement approval process for discretionary
projects, prior to issuing permits for ministerial projects.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-4, 5.8-3, and 5.8-4 in
Section 5.0.
4.9.b.
Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a
lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of preexisting nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land
uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document.
The City obtains
approximately 75 percent of its water from City-owned wells and purchases approximately 25
percent from the Metropolitan Water District and the Municipal Water District of Orange
County. The Orange County Water District (OCWD) manages the Orange County Groundwater
Basin (Basin), which is the main source of the City’s water supply. The OCWD maintains a
variety of programs aimed at managing annual withdrawal and maintaining adequate annual
basin recharge. Other City lands utilized for groundwater recharge (i.e., abandoned aggregate
pits at Bond Street and Santa Ana River) are designated Open Space to ensure their long-term
preservation for groundwater recharge. The General Plan PEIR concluded that impacts related to
groundwater resources would be less than significant. Therefore, impacts to water supply
availability to serve the General Plan’s buildout population would be less than significant.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The housing opportunity sites do not involve OS designated groundwater
recharge areas. Therefore, the Project would not interfere with groundwater recharge. As
concluded in Response 4.17.d, the anticipated residential development would increase water
demands, thus, contributing to depletion of groundwater supplies. However, because the General
Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the
Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the
General Plan PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing Element
anticipates future housing units primarily being developed through infill and redevelopment
activities on already development sites within the eight Focus Areas. Finally, the Housing
Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or
increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to groundwater
supplies, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
avoided/mitigated to less than significant through the City’s continued participation in the
OCWD’s groundwater management programs.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4 in Section
5.0.
4.9.c.
Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including
through the alteration of the course of stream or river, in a manner that would
result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Stormwater drainage in the
City is provided by a network of local drainage facilities and the creeks and rivers (i.e., Santa
Ana River, Santiago Creek, Handy Creek, Villa Park Reservoir, and Peter’s Canyon Reservoir).
The General Plan PEIR states that General Plan implementation would not involve the alteration
of existing streams or rivers. The General Plan has designated land along floodway corridors of
the Santa Ana River, Santiago Creek, and Handy Creek as Open Space. Future infill
development in the City’s existing urban areas would not be expected to substantially increase
the amount of existing impervious surfaces or substantially change the flow velocity or volume
of storm water runoff. The General Plan PEIR analysis continues stating that site redevelopment
may provide opportunities to create new pervious surfaces to facilitate groundwater infiltration
through new landscaping and use of porous pavements. Development in the planning area’s
eastern undeveloped portions would convert existing natural areas into impervious surfaces,
which could increase the volume and velocity of runoff flowing into Santiago Creek and
drainage channels leading into the Santiago Creek Recharge Basin. All construction would be
required to comply with the City’s LIP to ensure that this runoff is properly mitigated and
conveyed to the Santa Ana River or to the Santiago Creek. The General Plan PEIR concludes
that impacts to surface hydrology/water bodies would be less than significant.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing Element anticipates future
housing units primarily being developed through infill and redevelopment activities on already
developed sites within the eight urbanized Focus Areas west of SR-55, where the majority of the
area is already impervious and stormwater drainage facilities are already developed.
Development of housing opportunity sites in the planning area’s eastern undeveloped portions
could increase the volume and velocity of runoff. This development is not anticipated to
substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of a site such that substantial erosion or siltation
would occur on- or off-site. Increased runoff volumes and velocities could create nuisance
flooding in areas without adequate drainage facilities. However, because the General Plan PEIR
analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s
anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan
PEIR. All potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those relating to drainage patterns, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and avoided/mitigated through compliance
with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential
development proposals would require site-specific assessments of potential impacts to drainage
patterns and would be subject to compliance with the City’s LIP to ensure that this runoff is
properly mitigated and conveyed. Development within the City’s eastern undeveloped portions
would require new drainage facilities, which have been planned for as part of the 2005 approval
of the Santiago Hills II and East Orange development plans. In addition, per NPDES permit
requirements, future residential development would be required to meet pre-development
hydrologic conditions and retain runoff onsite, typically by providing onsite basins and facilities.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 through 5.8-3 in
Section 5.0.
4.9.d.
Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including
through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase
the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner, which would result in flooding
on- or off-site?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.b.
and 4.9.c.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 through 5.8-3 in
Section 5.0.
4.9.e.
Create or contribute runoff which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned
storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted
runoff?
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Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.b.
and 4.9.c.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 through 5.8-4 in
Section 5.0.
4.9.f.
Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.9.a.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4 in Section
5.0.
4.9.g.
Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood
Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation
map?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The National Flood
Insurance Program, in which Orange participates, covers at a minimum all properties affected by
the 100-year flood. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) prepares and
maintains Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), which show the extent of Special Flood Hazard
Areas (SFHAs) and other thematic features related to flood risk. Development associated with
General Plan implementation in the hillside and basin areas would contribute to the potential for
flood hazards by altering existing runoff and absorption rates. Areas downstream from the dams,
including large areas within the City and some of its Focus Areas, have high potential for
inundation in the unlikely event of catastrophic dam failure. The General Plan PEIR concluded
that with adherence to General Plan Regulations and Policies, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation
Measures 5.8-1 and 5.8-2, program-level flooding impacts would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Consistent with the General Plan PEIR, this residential development is
anticipated to occur primarily via infill and redevelopment within eight already developed Focus
Areas. Some Focus Areas are located in a flood hazard area associated with the Santa Ana River
but are protected by a levee. Development of housing opportunity sites in the hillside and basin
areas would contribute to the potential for flood hazards by altering existing runoff and
absorption rates. Housing opportunity sites downstream from the dams and levees have high
potential for inundation in the unlikely event of catastrophic dam failure. However, because the
General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units Citywide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed
in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change
existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all
potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential
development, such as those relating to flooding and inundation due to dam failure, have already
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been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less
than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR
mitigation measures.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 and 5.8-2 in Section
5.0.
4.9.h.
Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures, which would impede or
redirect flood flows?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.d.
and 4.9.g. above.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 and 5.8-2 in Section
5.0.
4.9.i.
Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving
flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.9.d.
above.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 and 5.8-2 in Section
5.0.
4.9.j.
Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Due to its location
approximately 12 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, the City would not be affected by
tsunamis. The General Plan PEIR states there is potential for a seiche to occur within the
Santiago Creek Recharge Basin or Irvine Lake, which could result in downstream flooding.
Flood risks are evaluated and mitigated in Section 4.9g. There would be a potential for
mudflows and associated erosion during land development activities in and adjacent to hillsides
in the planning area’s eastern portion due to removal of natural vegetation and creation of steep
graded slopes. The General Plan PEIR concluded that standard erosion-prevention practices
during grading and avoidance of oversteepened slopes near existing development would reduce
the potential for mudflow impacts to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This residential development could expose people or structures to risk from
inundation by sieche and/or mudflow. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the
impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated
residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. In
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addition, consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing Element anticipates future housing
units primarily being developed through infill and redevelopment activities on already
development sites within the eight Focus Areas. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose
to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities.
Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those relating to seiche or mudflows, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than
significant through standard erosion prevention practices and compliance with General Plan
Policies and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures related to flood control improvements.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 and 5.8-2 in Section
5.0. No mitigation is required.
4.9.k.
Potentially impact storm water runoff from construction activities?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.9.a.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4 in Section
5.0.
4.9.l.
Potentially impact storm water runoff from post-construction activities?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.a.,
4.9.c., and 4.9.d.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 through 5.8-4 in
Section 5.0.
4.9.m.
Result in a potential for discharge of storm water pollutants from areas of material
storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle or equipment maintenance
(including washing), waste handling, hazardous materials handling or storage,
delivery areas, loading docks or other outdoor work areas?
No Impact. The Housing Element’s anticipated residential development would not involve
material storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle or equipment maintenance, waste
handling, hazardous materials handling or storage, delivery, loading docks, or other outdoor
work areas. Therefore, Project implementation would not result in potential for discharge of
storm water pollutants in this regard.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.9.n.
Result in the potential for discharge of storm water to affect the beneficial uses of
the receiving waters?
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Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.a.,
4.9.c., 4.9.d., and 4.9.m.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4 in Section
5.0.
4.9.o.
Create the potential for significant changes in the flow velocity or volume of storm
water runoff to cause environmental harm?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.a.,
4.9.c., and 4.9.d.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4 in Section
5.0.
4.9.p.
Create significant increases in erosion of the project site or surrounding areas?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.9.a.
and 4.9.c.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-3 and 5.8-4 in Section
5.0.
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4.10
LAND USE AND PLANNING
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Physically divide an established community?
Conflict with any applicable land use plan,
policy, or regulation of an agency with
jurisdiction over the project (including, but not
limited to the general plan, specific plan, local
coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted
for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?
Conflict with any applicable habitat
conservation plan or natural community
conservation plan?
4.10.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact



Physically divide an established community?
No Impact. The Housing Element’s anticipated residential development would occur primarily
as infill development on housing opportunity sites within the City’s urban Focus Areas, as well
as the planning area’s eastern portion, which are already General Planned and zoned for
residential uses. Given the locations of these sites, their future development would not
physically divide an established community.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.10.b.
Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with
jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific
plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect?
No Impact. The General Plan PEIR concluded that the General Plan is consistent with SCAG’s
Regional Comprehensive Plan and Guide (RCPG) and Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), the
County of Orange General Plan, and applicable adopted plans, regulations, and policies.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. City staff has reviewed the proposed Housing Element and concluded it
provides the necessary consistency with the adopted General Plan Land Use Plan and other
General Plan elements. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential
development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally,
the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning
districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, the proposed Housing Element would not
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conflict with the City’s other General Plan elements or the applicable plans identified above. All
potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential
development, such as those relating to compliance with a land use plan, policy, or regulation,
have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and are considered less
than significant.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.10.c.
Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community
conservation plan?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.4.a.
and 4.4.d.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.4-1 through 5.4-4 in
Section 5.0.
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4.11
MINERAL RESOURCES
Would the project:
a.
b.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Result in the loss of availability of a known
mineral resource that would be of value to the
region and the residents of the state?
Result in the loss of availability of a locallyimportant mineral resource recovery site
delineated on a local general plan, specific plan
or other land use plan?
4.11.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact


Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value
to the region and the residents of the state?
No Impact. Significant mineral resources within the City of Orange are limited to gravel and
sand deposits (“aggregate”) associated with the Santa Ana River and Santiago Creek. The
General Plan Land Use Map designates the mineral resource areas as Resource Areas or Open
Space to provide long-term protection. The housing opportunity sites are not located within
these designated mineral resource areas. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to
change existing land use designations or zoning districts. Therefore, the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development would not result in the loss of availability of a known
mineral resource that would be of value to the region, the California residents, or locally.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.11.b.
Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral resource recovery
site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan?
No Impact. Refer to Response 4.11.a.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.12
NOISE
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
a. Exposure of persons to or generation of noise
levels in excess of standards established in the
local general plan or noise ordinance, or
applicable standards of other agencies?
b. Exposure of persons to or generation of
excessive
groundborne
vibration
or
groundborne noise levels?
c. A substantial permanent increase in ambient
noise levels in the project vicinity above levels
existing without the project?
d. A substantial temporary or periodic increase in
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without the project?
e. For a project located within an airport land use
plan or, where such a plan has not been
adopted, within two miles of a public airport or
public use airport, would the project expose
people residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
f.
For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip, would the project expose people
residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
4.12.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact










Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of
other agencies?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analyzes noise impacts from construction activities, mobile and stationary sources, railroad and
aircraft noise, and point sources. The General Plan PEIR states that General Plan
implementation would result in additional development within the City and its planning area,
which would generate noise during construction activity, which could impact noise sensitive land
uses. This impact would be short-term and cease upon construction completion, and the OMC
exempts construction-generated noise that occurs between the hours of 7 AM to 8 PM Monday
through Saturday, from applicable noise standards, provided that all construction equipment is
fitted with factory-installed muffling devices and maintained in good working order. If
construction activities were to occur during the more noise sensitive hours (e.g., evening,
nighttime, and early morning) or if construction equipment is not properly equipped with noise
control devices, noise levels from construction sources could exceed the applicable standards and
result in substantial temporary increase in the ambient noise environment at nearby noise
sensitive receptors. As a result, this impact would be potentially significant.
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The General Plan PEIR analysis states that long-term noise levels from traffic generated by
General Plan buildout would result in a substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels
exceeding the City significance thresholds. Noise standards would be exceeded at one location
where residential uses are permitted under the General Plan (Rampart Street between Chapman
and Orangewood Avenues which his currently developed with commercial uses but designated
as Urban Mixed Use which encourages both commercial uses and housing at densities of up to
60 du/acre). Refer to General Plan PEIR Table 5.10-9 for noise impact calculations. As such,
future residents (sensitive receptors) at this location would be exposed to noise levels exceeding
applicable standards. The General Plan PEIR concluded that this would be a potentially
significant impact.
The General Plan PEIR states that several of the Focus Areas where mixed use developments
would occur would be subject to high-volume freeway, roadway, or rail noise. General Plan land
use designations in the Old Towne/Santa Fe Depot, Lemon Street, and Katella Avenue Focus
Areas would allow residential uses which are considered vibration-sensitive, within or partially
within 100 feet of a railroad centerline. Noise standards could be exceeded thereby resulting in a
potentially significant noise impact.
The General Plan PEIR concluded that General Plan implementation would not result in the
exposure of new or existing noise sensitive land uses to elevated aircraft noise levels. The
General Plan PEIR further concluded that aircraft-generated noise levels would be less than
significant. The General Plan includes Policies aimed at reducing noise from aircraft in the
planning area.
Mixed use development permitted under the General Plan would be constructed primarily within
the eight Focus Areas. This designation would allow residential development in close proximity
to commercial and industrial uses. The General Plan PEIR states that point source noise levels
associated with commercial and industrial land uses could potentially exceed the City of Orange
noise standards at nearby future noise sensitive receptors thereby resulting in a potentially
significant impact.
The General Plan includes an Implementation Plan that identifies specific Implementation
Programs to achieve the Goals, Policies, and Plans. The General Plan PEIR concludes that with
adherence to General Plan Policies and Regulations, the OMC, and General Plan PEIR
Mitigation Measures 5.10-1 to 5.10-10, program-level noise impacts would be less than
significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This residential development would generate short-term noise impacts during
grading and construction, and long-term noise impacts during project operations (i.e., vehicular
traffic to/from the site, outdoor activities, and stationary mechanical equipment). Additionally,
future residential uses may be exposed to noise levels from mobile sources, railroads, aircraft,
and point sources (particularly for mixed-use developments) in excess of established standards.
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To determine project-related impacts and potential noise exposure, project-specific information
would be required. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide primarily within eight land use Focus
Areas (consistent with the Housing Element), the Project’s anticipated residential development
was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing
Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or
increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to noise, have
already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated
through compliance with General Plan Policies and Regulations, the OMC, and General Plan
PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo project-specific
environmental review and site-specific acoustical studies would be performed, as needed. If
project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required
under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.3-2, and 5.10-1 through
5.10-8 in Section 5.0.
4.12.b.
Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or
groundborne noise levels?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analysis states that sensitive receptors (i.e., future residential uses) could be exposed to
groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels from the rail line in the Old Towne/Santa Fe
Depot Focus Area, construction equipment from development throughout the planning area, and
vehicular-induced ground vibration. On a program level, the General Plan PEIR concluded that
groundborne vibration/noise impacts to future residential uses from vehicular sources would be
less than significant and not exceed applicable standards. The earlier analysis also concluded
that such impacts to future residential uses from rail way and construction equipment sources
would be reduced to less than significant on a program level with adherence to General Plan
Regulations and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measure 5.10-10.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This residential development involves sensitive receptors that could be exposed
to groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels from the rail line, construction equipment,
and motor vehicles. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide primarily within eight land use Focus
Areas (consistent with the Housing Element),-the Project’s anticipated residential development
was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing
Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or
increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to groundborne
vibration, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
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avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo projectspecific environmental review and site-specific acoustical studies would be performed, as
needed. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific mitigation measures would be
required under CEQA.
Mitigation Measures: See the General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measure 5.10-10 in Section 5.0.
4.12.c.
A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without the project?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.12.a.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.10-1 through 5.10-8 in Section 5.0.
4.12.d.
A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project
vicinity above levels existing without the project?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.12.a.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.10-1, 5.10-2, 5.10-3, 5.10-6, and 5.10-10 in
Section 5.0.
4.12.e.
For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not
been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the
project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise
levels?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Periodic noise in the
planning area may be generated by planes flying overhead from John Wayne Airport and
military aircraft traffic, as well as helicopters accessing the University of Irvine Medical Center.
The planning area is not located within an airport land use plan or within two miles of a public
airport, public use airport, or private airstrip. However, several helipads exist within the
planning area. As discussed in Response 4.8.e, the ALUC established the Orange County
Heliports AELUP, which contains noise contours, restrictions for types of construction and
building heights in navigable air space, and requirements impacting the establishment or
construction of sensitive uses within close proximity to heliports. The General Plan PEIR
concluded the proposed modifications to land use designations would not result in the exposure
of new or existing noise sensitive land uses to elevated aircraft noise levels. A less than
significant impact would occur in this regard.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. Helicopters do regularly over fly the City and generate short-term noise.
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Therefore, depending on the location of the housing opportunity site, the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development could expose people to noise levels from helicopters.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide primarily within eight land use Focus Areas (consistent with the
Housing Element), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for
and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to
change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities.
Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those relating to helicopter noise, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant
through compliance with the General Plan PEIR mitigation measure. The AELUP addresses
heliport operations and contains noise contours, restrictions for types of construction and
building heights in navigable air space, as well as requirements impacting the establishment or
construction of sensitive uses within close proximity to airports/heliports. Compliance with the
AELUP and local, State, and Federal regulatory framework would be required.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measure 5.10-9 in Section 5.0.
4.12.f.
For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose
people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.12.e.
Mitigation Measures. No mitigation is required.
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4.13
POPULATION AND HOUSING
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Induce substantial population growth in an
area, either directly (for example, by proposing
new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for
example, through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
Displace substantial numbers of existing
housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the construction of replacement
housing elsewhere?
4.13.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact



Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension
of roads or other infrastructure)?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
anticipated and evaluated the impacts of up to 66,850 dwelling units and population of 194,543
persons. It concluded that although the General Plan allows for growth and an increase in
population, this increase is planned for, accommodated and mitigated by the growth management
policies and mitigation measures incorporated into the General Plan.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. As indicated in Table 2-5, the City is able to meet the RHNA allocation through
the projects-in-the-pipeline alone. Vacant land and parcels with potential to be redeveloped with
residential units within the eight General Plan Focus Areas provide additional opportunities for
new housing in Orange. Assuming 100 percent occupancy and 3.04 persons per household,4 the
population growth associated with the City’s current housing need (363 dwelling units) is
approximately 1,104 persons. The population growth associated with the potential development
yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas (5,702 dwelling units) identified in
the Housing Element is 17,334 persons. This forecast population growth would represent an
increase of approximately 0.80 percent (and 12.5 percent respectively) over the City’s 2013
population estimate of 138,792 persons.5 However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the
City-wide impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units and population of 194,543
persons, and the Housing Element Update does not propose to change existing land use
4
State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties,
and the State - January 1, 2011 - 2013. Sacramento, California, May 2013.
5
Ibid.
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designations or increase residential densities, the Project’s anticipated residential development
and population growth was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR; refer
to General Plan PEIR Table 3-1. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to population and
housing, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and concluded
to be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.13.b.
Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
concluded the type of development allowed under the General Plan would not displace
substantial numbers of housing or people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing
elsewhere. A less than significant impact would occur in this regard.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917 units Citywide. Future housing development would occur as current projects, reutilization of sites within
urban Focus Areas, and infill. Future development of housing occurring as reutilization of sites
could displace existing housing and people. However, this is not anticipated to occur in
substantial numbers, because redevelopment would be focused within the City’s Focus Areas,
which largely consist of underutilized commercial and industrial sites. The proposed Housing
Element Update has been developed to meet the City’s future population needs, and future
housing development would be consistent with the Goals and Policies set forth in the Element.
Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to
66,850 dwelling units City-wide primarily within eight land use Focus Areas (consistent with the
Housing Element), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for
and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR, Impacts relative to displacement of housing and persons
are less than significant.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.13.c.
Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.13.b.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.14
PUBLIC SERVICES
Would the project:
a.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Would the project result in substantial adverse
physical impacts associated with the provision
of new or physically altered governmental
facilities, need for new or physically altered
governmental facilities, the construction of
which could cause significant environmental
impacts, in order to maintain acceptable
service ratios, response times or other
performance objectives for any of the public
services:
1) Fire protection?
2) Police protection?
3) Schools?
4) Parks?
5) Other public facilities?
4.14.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document





Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact



Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the
provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or
physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,
response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services:
4.14.a.1. Fire protection?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Fire and emergency medical
services for the City are provided by the City of Orange Fire Department (OFD). The OFD is
signatory to “automatic aid” agreements with Anaheim, Garden Grove, and Orange County Fire
Departments. The General Plan PEIR states that the increase in development and population
generated by the General Plan land uses would require additional fire stations, personnel, and
equipment over time to ensure adequate fire and emergency service capabilities and short
response times. In particular, intensification of development and additional population in the
Focus Areas would lead to increased demand for fire protection services in these areas.
Additionally, new development in the planning area’s eastern portion may require additional fire
protection services and facilities. It is noted that mitigation for increased demand for fire
services due to the East Orange development (including a new fire station to serve the area) was
required at the time of the project approval. The General Plan PEIR concludes that the increase
in development and population generated by the General Plan would require additional personnel
and fire stations; thereby creating a potentially significant impact. The General Plan PEIR
further concludes that with adherence to General Plan Policies pertaining to fire protection, and
General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.12-1 through 5.12-5, impacts associated with the
provision of fire protection services on a program level would be reduced to less than significant.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This anticipated residential development and resultant population growth would
increase the demand fire protection services and may require additional personnel, equipment, or
fire stations. However, the City is essentially built out, and the Project’s anticipated housing is
planned as redevelopment within Focus Areas, and infill or on remaining vacant parcels located
within the City’s urban and suburban context. Thus, fire services are already provided in these
areas, and it is not anticipated that new or physically altered facilities would cause significant
environmental impacts. Within the East Orange area where housing is entitled but not yet
constructed, the area is largely undeveloped with limited fire protection facilities. Fire protection
and emergency response services necessary for the new development would require substantial
additions to the staffing, facilities, and equipment. However, at the time of approval of the
Santiago Hills II/East Orange projects, new fire facilities to serve the project area were included
as part of the development plan, development agreement, and required mitigation for the project.
Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to
66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element does not
propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to fire protection, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than
significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR mitigation
measures. The OFD would review and comment on individual site plans, prior to approval. As
part of the review, the OFD would impose standard conditions of approval, including the
recommended mitigation, which would ensure that individual project impacts on fire protection
services are reduced to less than significant.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-2 through 5.12-5 in Section 5.0.
4.14.a.2. Police protection?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Police protection services
for the City’s incorporated area are provided by the City of Orange Police Department (OPD).
Police protection services for the unincorporated islands in the planning area are patrolled by the
Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Department’s South Operation Division. The General Plan
PEIR states that implementation of the General Plan would result in an increase in population
and new development, which would create a demand for additional police personnel, equipment,
and facilities to protect and serve the public at acceptable service levels. In particular,
intensification of development and additional population in the Focus Areas would lead to
increased demand for police services in these areas. Additionally, new development in the
planning area’s eastern portion (primarily from the entitled East Orange development) may
require additional police services and facilities. It is noted that mitigation for increases in
demand for police services due to development in East Orange was required at the time of
project approval. The General Plan PEIR concludes the planning area would need over 80 new
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officers based on the FBI’s average ratio for western cities of 1.3 police officers per 1,000
residents. The City would need to add additional police personnel and facilities over the course
of General Plan buildout, because additional development, increased density and intensity, and
population, particularly in the Focus Areas, would lead to increased demand for police services.
The General Plan PEIR concluded that this is a potentially significant impact. However, with
adherence to General Plan Policies pertaining to police services, and General Plan PEIR
Mitigation Measures 5.12-1 through 5.12-4, program-level impacts associated with the provision
of police services would be reduced to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This residential development and resultant population growth would increase
the demand for police protection in the City and may require additional police personnel,
equipment, and facilities. However, the City is essentially built out, and the Project’s anticipated
housing is planned as redevelopment within Focus Areas, and as infill or on remaining vacant
parcels located within the City’s urban and suburban context. Thus, police services are already
provided in these areas and incremental increases in demand over time are planned for via the
City’s annual budget and service planning process. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR
analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s
anticipated residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan
PEIR. Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations
or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects
resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating
to police protection, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and
can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies
and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual proposals would require site-specific
assessments of potential impacts to public services, including police protection. If necessary,
additional mitigation would be required to further minimize potential impacts.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-1 through 5.12-4 in Section 5.0.
4.14.a.3. Schools?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The City of Orange is
within the jurisdiction of the Orange Unified School District (OUSD). The General Plan PEIR
analysis estimates 7,395 new students would be generated post 2030 with General Plan buildout,
compared to the prior General Plan, which may exceed the capacity provided by some existing
schools and/or increase the demand for staff. The General Plan PEIR concluded that this is a
potentially significant impact. Developers would be required to pay developer fees as mitigation
for school impacts. The environmental effects of expansion, construction, and operation of
additional school facilities would be evaluated under CEQA by OUSD in its efforts to plan for
construction of new schools or expansion of existing facilities.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The anticipated residential development would result in an increase in student
population, which could create a demand for additional and/or expanded school facilities. The
degree of impacts to schools would be dependent upon the size and location of the residential
development and the existing condition of the school facilities serving the area. School districts
are allowed to collect impact fees from developers of new residential uses (Education Code
Section 17620, et seq.). School fees imposed through the Education Code are deemed to be full
mitigation for new development projects (Government Code Section 65996). Developer impact
fees would be imposed on future residential developments. Thus, compliance with the
established regulatory framework, which requires payment of developer impact fees, would
offset the cost of providing service for any additional students generated by the anticipated
residential development. The impacts on school services would be fully mitigated and less than
significant. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development
of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was
already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Therefore, all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those relating to schools, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General
Plan PEIR and considered less than significant. The OUSD updates its Facilities Master Plan
over time to evaluate demand, capacity, and plans for facility needs. Should the anticipated
residential development require an additional school, the environmental impact would be
evaluated under CEQA by OUSD.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.14.a.4. Parks?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Parks and recreational
facilities in the City are maintained by the Community Services Department. The City owns and
has developed 24 parks, which consist of approximately 251 acres. The City also maintains
Special Use Facilities that provide passive uses and historic or aesthetic amenities. Section
16.60.040 of the OMC establishes a standard of 3.0 acres of parkland per 1,000 population. The
General Plan PEIR states that there are a number of State and local regulations and existing City
master plan documents that would provide for sufficient recreational facilities in Orange.
According to the General Plan PEIR, the City has approximately 43.5 acres of planned future
parks (since the General Plan PEIR was adopted, the City has developed the 10.5-acre Steve
Ambriz Memorial Park, leaving 33.5 acres of planned future parks remaining). The General
Plan PEIR concluded that with implementation of General Plan Policies resulting in programs
that actively acquire and assemble land, and develop new parks, parkland resources would be
managed/maintained to address increased use due to growth. In addition, these Policies ensure
additional parkland would be sought toward reaching the City’s standard of 3.0 acres per 1,000
population. The General Plan also includes an Implementation Plan that identifies specific
Implementation Programs to achieve the Goals, Policies, and Plans, including the acquisition of
parkland to achieve the City’s standard of 3 acres per 1,000 population. The General Plan PEIR
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further concluded that with adherence to General Plan Policies, Regulations, and Plans, programlevel impacts to recreational resources would be less than significant. If project-level impacts
are identified, specific mitigation measures would be required under CEQA. Implementation of
General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.13-1 through 5.13-4 would ensure implementation of
General Plan Policies related to recreational resources.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This anticipated residential development would increase the demand for
parkland and recreational facilities, and usage of existing facilities. Based on the City‘s target
ratio of 3.0 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, the anticipated population increase of
approximately 1,104 persons (associated with the RHNA Need of 363 dwelling units) would
generate a demand for approximately 3.3 acres of parkland and result in increased usage of
existing facilities. Further, the anticipated population increase of 17,334 persons (associated
with the potential development yield of 5,702 dwelling units identified in the Housing Element)
would generate a demand for approximately 52 acres of parkland and result in increased usage of
existing facilities. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units and a population of 194,543 persons City-wide, the
Project’s anticipated residential development and population growth was already accounted for
and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to
change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities.
Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those relating to parks and recreational facilities, have already
been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less
than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR
mitigation measures. Individual residential development proposals would be subject to payment
of an impact fee, based on residential density. These fees are intended to provide for
rehabilitation or acquisition of park and recreation areas. A developer may also elect to provide
for the dedication of land for recreational facilities as part of a project’s design, based on the
scope of the project, through coordination with and approval by the City. The development of
new park facilities would undergo environmental review at the time a specific project was
identified.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.13-1 through 5.13-4 in Section 5.0.
4.14.a.5. Other public facilities?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The General Plan PEIR
analysis states that increased population resulting from implementation of the General Plan
would create a demand for additional library services. These services would likely require
expansion of existing libraries and/or construction of new libraries. Based on the California
State Library recommended standard of four volumes and 0.7 square feet of library space per
capita, buildout pursuant to the General Plan would require the provision of 136,180 square feet
of total library space for residents of Orange based on the buildout population of 194,543. The
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Orange Public Library Facilities Master Plan calls for 104,600 square feet of library space by
2020, which is approximately 35,000 square feet less than the recommended California State
Library standard. Library space pursuant to the California State Library recommended standard
would be deficient at some point in the future until expansions or the construction of new
facilities occurs. The General Plan PEIR concluded that this is a potentially significant impact.
The General Plan PEIR further concluded that with adherence to General Plan Policies
pertaining to library services, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.12-6 and 5.12-7,
program-level impacts associated with the provision of library services would be reduced to less
than significant. Construction of libraries would be subject to CEQA review.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The City’s adjusted regional housing needs for the planning period 2014-2021
is 363 housing units, which would increase the demand for library facilities, and usage of
existing facilities. Based on the California State Library recommended standard of four volumes
and 0.7 square feet of library space per capita, the anticipated population increase of
approximately 1,104 persons would generate a demand for approximately 4,416 volumes and
773 square feet of library space. Further, the anticipated population increase of 17,334 persons
(associated with the potential development yield of 5,702 dwelling units identified in the
Housing Element) would generate a demand for 69,336 volumes and 12,134 square feet of
library space. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of
up to 66,850 dwelling units and a population of 194,543 City-wide, the Project’s anticipated
residential development and population growth was already accounted for and analyzed in the
General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land
use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those relating to libraries, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General
Plan PEIR and concluded to be less than significant with adherence to General Plan Policies
pertaining to library services, and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.12-6 and 5.12-7.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-6 and 5.12-7 in Section 5.0.
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4.15
RECREATION
Would the project:
a.
b.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Would the project increase the use of existing
neighborhood and regional parks or other
recreational facilities such that substantial
physical deterioration of the facility would occur
or be accelerated?
Does the project include recreational facilities
or require the construction or expansion of
recreational facilities, which might have an
adverse physical effect on the environment?
4.15.a
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact


Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or
other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the
facility would occur or be accelerated?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.14.a.4.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.13-1 through 5.13-4 in Section 5.0.
4.15.b.
Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or
expansion of recreational facilities, which might have an adverse physical effect on
the environment?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.14.a.4.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.13-1 through 5.13-4 in Section 5.0.
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4.16
TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or
policy establishing measures of effectiveness
for the performance of the circulation system,
taking into account all modes of transportation
including mass transit and non-motorized travel
and relevant components of the circulation
system, including but not limited to
intersections, streets, highways and freeways,
pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass
transit?
Conflict with an applicable congestion
management program, including, but not
limited to level of service standards and travel
demand measures, or other standards
established by the county congestion
management agency for designated roads or
highways?
Result in a change in air traffic patterns,
including either an increase in traffic levels or a
change in location that results in substantial
safety risks?
Substantially increase hazards due to a design
feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
Result in inadequate emergency access?
Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or
programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or
pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the
performance or safety of such facilities?
4.16.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document

Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact









Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy establishing measures of
effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all
modes of transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel and
relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to
intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and
mass transit?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Level of service (LOS) is a
qualitative measure that characterizes traffic congestion on a scale of A to F with LOS A
representing free-flow conditions and LOS F representing extreme congestion. According to
General Plan PEIR, LOS D has been adopted by the City as the acceptable level of service
threshold for the roadway network, which includes arterial segments and intersections.
According to the General Plan PEIR, the Circulation Plan and Master Plan of Streets and
Highways would solve existing system deficiencies, accommodate growth consistent with land
use policy, and preserve level of service objectives. The General Plan PEIR concluded that 21
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roadway segments and 12 study intersections are forecast to operate at an unacceptable level of
service under 2030 General Plan buildout traffic conditions. General Plan Policies include
actions to provide a multimodal transportation system that meets forecasted demands and
sustains quality of life. Implementation Programs are meant to achieve the General Plan Goals,
Policies, and Plans. Feasible mitigation measures (including physical improvements) for
addressing unacceptable level of service on arterial segments were identified in the General Plan
PEIR. Even with adherence to and implementation of the General Plan Policies, and General
Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.14-1 and 5.14-3 through 5.14-7, program-level increased
traffic impacts on arterial segment levels of service would be reduced, but would remain
significant and unavoidable. The General Plan PEIR further concluded that with adherence to
General Plan Policies and implementation of General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.14-2
through 5.14-7, program-level impacts at intersections would be reduced to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The anticipated residential development would increase vehicular movement in
the vicinity of each future development site during AM and PM peak hour periods. Assuming a
standard ITE trip generation rate of approximately 10 average daily trips for a single family
residential use (average daily trips for a multifamily use would be substantially less), the 363
units anticipated by the proposed Housing Element Update would generate approximately 3,630
average daily trips City-wide. Further, the 5,702 dwelling units associated with the potential
development yield identified in the Housing Element Update would generate approximately
57,020 average daily trips City-wide. Depending on the location of the housing opportunity site,
intensity of development, and trip distribution characteristics, future increases in traffic volumes
could aggravate existing deficiencies and/or cause a roadway or intersection to operate at
unacceptable LOS. However, the City is essentially built out, and housing anticipated by the
Housing Element is planned as redevelopment within Focus Areas (consistent with the General
Plan PEIR assumptions), and as infill or on the few remaining vacant parcels located within the
City’s urban and suburban context. As a result, the transportation infrastructure is largely
already available to these areas. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the
impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated
residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR.
Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or
zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects
resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating
to traffic and level of service impacts to transportation infrastructure, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be reduced/mitigated through
compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual
residential projects would undergo project-specific environmental review and could require sitespecific traffic impact analyses. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific
mitigation measures would be required under CEQA. In addition, residential developments that
generate traffic trips are required to pay traffic impact fees, which are used to improve
infrastructure in the City over time. Further, traffic infrastructure for the City as a whole is
planned for as part of the General Plan Circulation Element and specific infrastructure projects
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are implemented through the City’s annual capital improvement program. No new significant
impact involving traffic or substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant
impacts would occur with Project implementation. Refer to Response 4.17.f for a discussion of
bicycle paths and mass transit.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.3-1, 5.3-2, 5.3-5, and 5.14-1 through 5.14-7 in
Section 5.0.
4.16.b.
Conflict with an applicable congestion management program, including, but not
limited to level of service standards and travel demand measures, or other
standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated
roads or highways?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The planning area contains
one Orange County CMP intersection at SR-55 northbound and southbound ramps at Katella
Avenue. The General Plan PEIR states that General Plan implementation would not cause this
intersection to degrade to an unacceptable level. Therefore, impacts to CMP designated roads or
highways would be less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. As previously noted, the anticipated residential development would generate
approximately 3,630 average daily trips up to 57,020 average daily trips, Depending on the
location of the housing opportunity site, intensity of development, and trip distribution
characteristics, future increases in traffic volumes could impact the CMP intersection. However,
because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling
units City-wide primarily within eight land use Focus Areas (consistent with the Housing
Element), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted for and
analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to
change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities.
Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated
residential development, such as those relating to CMP facilities, have already been adequately
analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and concluded to be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.16.c.
Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic
levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks?
Less Than Significant Impact. Given the nature and scope of the anticipated residential
development (363 units), Project implementation would not result in a change in air traffic
patterns.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.16.d.
Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or
dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)?
Less Than Significant Impact. The City is essentially built out and the transportation network
already exists. The Project does not propose new roadways. If existing roadways were altered
or expanded in the future, traffic improvements would be constructed according to the City’s
roadway safety design standards. Therefore, transportation/traffic hazards due to a design
feature or incompatible uses would not substantially increase. Further, individual residential
developments would require site-specific assessments of potential impacts relative to traffic and
circulation, including an evaluation of potential traffic hazards. If necessary, mitigation would
be required to reduce potential traffic hazards to less than significant.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.16.e.
Result in inadequate emergency access?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.8.g.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.7-1, 5.7-3 and 5.7-7 in
Section 5.0.
4.16.f.
Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle,
or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such
facilities?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Bus service in Orange is
provided by the Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA). The City works with OCTA to
ensure that adequate bus service is provided. Additionally, safe and efficient travelways for
bicyclists are provided throughout the City; see General Plan Figure CM-3, Plan for
Recreational Trails and Bikeways. The General Plan PEIR states that development pursuant to
the General Plan would have the potential to conflict with policies supporting alternative modes
of transportation where roadway infrastructure improvements reduce space within the roadway
right-of-way for bicyclists and where roadways are extended into areas not serviced by bus or
rail services. The General Plan PEIR concluded that this is a potentially significant impact. The
General Plan Policies include actions aimed at encouraging alternative transportation modes such
as walking, biking, and using public transportation. The General Plan PEIR further concluded
that with adherence to General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.14-4
through 5.14-6, which encourage use of alternative modes of transportation, program-level
impacts associated with conflicts between alternative transportation modes and Policies would be
reduced to less than significant.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. The anticipated residential development would increase demands for alternative
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modes of transportation. The City would continue to cooperate with OCTA in service planning
and establishing new bus routes and stops, where appropriate. Housing development anticipated
in the East Orange area according to existing entitlements may not have access to alternative
transportation due to housing locations in less urbanized areas. However, most of the housing is
anticipated in the urban Focus Areas where alternative modes (pedestrian, bus, and bicycle) are
available. Additionally, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of
up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide primarily within eight land use Focus Areas (consistent
with the Housing Element), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does
not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to alternative modes of transportation,
have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Individual residential projects would undergo projectspecific environmental review. If project-level significant impacts are identified, specific
mitigation measures would be required under CEQA. Additionally, the City would continue to
cooperate with OCTA in service planning and establishing new bus routes and stops where
appropriate.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.14-4 and 5.14-6 in Section 5.0.
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4.17
UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of
the applicable Regional Water Quality Control
Board?
Require or result in the construction of new
water or wastewater treatment facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the construction
of which could cause significant environmental
effects?
Require or result in the construction of new
storm water drainage facilities or expansion of
existing facilities, the construction of which
could cause significant environmental effects?
Have sufficient water supplies available to
serve the project from existing entitlements and
resources, or are new or expanded
entitlements needed?
Result in a determination by the wastewater
treatment provider, which serves or may serve
the project that it has adequate capacity to
serve the project’s projected demand in
addition
to
the
provider’s
existing
commitments?
Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted
capacity to accommodate the project’s solid
waste disposal needs?
Comply with federal, state, and local statutes
and regulations related to solid waste?
4.17.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact










Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water
Quality Control Board?
Less Than Significant Impact. Refer to Response 4.9.a. The City requires NPDES permits, as
administered by the Santa Ana RWQCB, according to Federal regulations for both point source
discharges (a municipal or industrial discharge at a specific location or pipe) and nonpoint source
discharges (diffuse runoff of water from adjacent land uses) to surface waters of the United
States. For point source discharges, such as sewer outfalls, each NPDES permit contains limits
on allowable concentrations and mass emissions of pollutants contained in the discharge.
The anticipated residential development would comply with all provisions of the NPDES
program, as enforced by the RWQCB. Therefore, the residential development would not result
in an exceedance of wastewater treatment requirements.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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4.17.b.
Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities
or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document.
General Plan
implementation would require construction of new or expansion of existing water and
wastewater facilities. Increased population and development resulting from General Plan
implementation would create a demand for additional water and sewer infrastructure as well as
replacement and upgrading of existing facilities. Although the majority of new General Plan
development would occur through infill and redevelopment in developed areas already having
infrastructure, upgrade or replacement of aging water and sewer pipelines and infrastructure may
be necessary. Additionally, new entitled (but not yet built) development on previously
undeveloped land in the planning area’s eastern portion would require the provision of new water
and sewer facilities and infrastructure. The City plans for water infrastructure through its Urban
Water Management Plan (UWMP), Water Systems Master Plan, and annual capital improvement
program. OCSD’s current Sewer Master Plan anticipates regional growth to year 2030, which
would include the growth anticipated in Orange. The General Plan PEIR concluded that this is a
potentially significant impact. The General Plan PEIR also concluded that with adherence to
General Plan Policies pertaining to water and sewer infrastructure and General Plan PEIR
Mitigation Measures 5.12-8 through 5.12-12, program-level impacts associated with water and
sewer infrastructure would be less than significant.
Water Infrastructure. The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and
the potential development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702
dwelling units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result
in 50,917 units City-wide. This anticipated residential development would increase water
demand, creating demand for additional water infrastructure, including replacement and
upgrading of water facilities. The City’s Urban Water Management Plan (2010) is a long-range
program that addresses water infrastructure needs and plans for water supply for a 20 year
planning horizon. The UWMP identifies and plans for needed infrastructure improvements
through the City’s Water Systems Master Plan. Infrastructure improvements are implemented
through the City’s annual capital improvement program and maintenance programs. Therefore,
at the plan level, adequate infrastructure exists or is planned to accommodate the Project’s
anticipated housing development. Additionally, because the UWMP analyzed future demands
based on the General Plan, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the UWMP. Moreover, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed
the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated
residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR.
Finally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or
zoning districts, or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects
resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating
to water infrastructure, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR
and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan
Policies and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Environmental documentation prepared
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pursuant to CEQA would identify potentially significant impacts and appropriate mitigation
measures resulting from construction of new water infrastructure projects.
Sewer Infrastructure. The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and
the potential development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702
dwelling units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result
in 50,917 units City-wide. This anticipated residential development would generate additional
wastewater, creating demand for additional sewer infrastructure, including replacement and
upgrading of sewer facilities. Within the City limits, the future residential development is
anticipated to include the use of local sewer system lines to serve future residents. It is
anticipated that in areas where redevelopment activity would be concentrated, additional
deficiencies would be discovered. The City would continue to identify existing and anticipated
system deficiencies through its Sewer Master Plan update and implementation process. Through
capital improvement programs, required improvements would be prioritized and sewage
collection facilities upgraded. Within the East Orange area, construction of sewer lines would be
required. Developers would be required to pay the cost of providing new and improved sewer
service to project sites. Moreover, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of
development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential
development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Finally, the
Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts,
or increase residential densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the
Housing Element’s anticipated residential development, such as those relating to sewer
infrastructure, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can
be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Environmental documentation prepared pursuant to
CEQA would identify potentially significant impacts and appropriate mitigation measures
resulting from construction of new sewer infrastructure projects.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-8 through 5.12-12 in Section 5.0.
4.17.c.
Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Responses 4.9.d.
and 4.9.e.
Mitigation Measures: See General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.8-1 through 5.8-4 in
Section 5.0.
4.17.d.
Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing
entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The City plans for water
supply through its Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP), Water Systems Master Plan (2007)
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and annual capital improvement program. The 2005 UWMP, which was the most current at the
time the General Plan PEIR was prepared, addressed the City’s water supply for a 20 year
horizon. The 2005 UWMP showed that adequate water supply would exist to accommodate
planned land uses for its 20 year planning horizon. The General Plan PEIR concluded impacts to
water supply availability to serve the General Plan’s buildout population would be less than
significant.
The City plans for water supply through its UWMP. The 2010 UWMP serves as the update to
the City’s 2005 UWMP. The 2010 UWMP based its analysis of water demands on the General
Plan’s buildout projections and past average water consumption. As indicated in UWMP Table
2-10, the City’s water demand is expected to increase to 34,713 acre-feet yearly by 2030.
According to the 2010 UWMP, the Regional UWMP finds that Metropolitan Water District of
Southern California (Metropolitan), the City’s main provider of imported water, is able to meet
full service demands of its member agencies with existing supplies from 2015 through 2035
during normal years, single dry year, and multiple dry years.6 The UWMP concluded the City is
therefore capable of meeting the water demands of its customers in normal, single dry, and
multiple dry years between 2015 and 2035, as indicated in UWMP Table 3-14, Table 3-15, and
Table 3-16, respectively.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This anticipated residential development would generate increased demands for
water supplies. However, because the 2010 UWMP based its analyses of water demands and
supplies on the General Plan, and the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land
use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential densities, the Project’s anticipated
residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the 2010 UWMP.
Additionally, individual residential proposals would require site-specific assessments of potential
impacts to water supplies and those meeting Senate Bill (SB) 610 criteria would require a Water
Supply Assessment (WSA). Similarly, any residential project involving a subdivision pursuant
to SB 221 would require verification of sufficient water supply from the water supplier.
Additionally, all future residential development would be subject to compliance with General
Plan Policies, which involve water conservation measures.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-8 through 5.12-10 in Section 5.0.
4.17.e.
Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider, which serves or
may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected
demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The increased population
resulting from implementation of the proposed General Plan would create a demand for
additional wastewater treatment facilities. This increased demand may exceed the capacity of
these existing treatment facilities and result in the need for new or expanded facilities. OCSD’s
6
Malcolm Pirnie, Inc., 2010 Urban Water Management Plan, Page 2, June 2011.
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current Sewer Master Plan anticipates regional growth to year 2030, which would include the
growth anticipated in Orange. The General Plan PEIR conclude that with adherence to General
Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.12-11 and 5.12-12, program-level
impacts associated with the provision of wastewater services will be reduced to a less than
significant level.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This anticipated residential development and population growth would increase
wastewater generation, impacting the capacity of OSD’s wastewater treatment plant. However,
sanitation districts base their wastewater treatment plants’ design capacities on the regional
growth forecasts adopted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). As
concluded in Response 4.13.a, the forecast population growth associated with the Project (1,104
persons) was already accounted for in the General Plan PEIR, since the proposed Housing
Element Update does not propose to change existing land use designations or increase residential
densities, and the General Plan PEIR assumed and analyzed the City-wide environmental
impacts resulting from development of up to 66,850 dwelling units and a population 194,543
persons. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to wastewater treatment plant
capacities, have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and
General Plan PEIR mitigation measures. Adequate capacity would exist to serve the Project’s
anticipated demand.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-11 and 5.12-12 in Section 5.0.
4.17.f.
Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the
project’s solid waste disposal needs?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Solid waste services (i.e.,
refuse, recyclables, and green waste) to the City are provided by Waste Management of Orange
County. The City participates in various programs, such as residential curbside recyclable,
greenwaste and household hazardous waste collection, to facilitate the diversion of waste. The
General Plan PEIR states that development and population growth associated with General Plan
buildout would generate an increase in demand for solid waste collection and disposal capacity.
The General Plan PEIR concludes that this is a potentially significant impact. The County
Integrated Waste Management Department (CIWMD) has adopted the Regional Landfill Options
for Orange County (RELOOC) program, which is a 40-year strategic plan that evaluates options
for trash disposal for Orange County. Continuing efforts to reduce solid waste generation and
increase diversion would help to minimize impacts to landfill capacity in the future. The General
Plan PEIR concluded that with adherence to General Plan Policies pertaining to solid waste and
General Plan PEIR Mitigation Measures 5.12-15 and 5.12-16, program-level impacts associated
with solid waste services would be reduced to less than significant.
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The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide. This anticipated residential development would generate additional solid waste,
placing an increased demand on solid waste disposal services and ultimately requiring disposal at
a landfill. However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development of up
to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide, the Project’s anticipated residential development was already
accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. Additionally, the Housing Element does
not propose to change existing land use designations or zoning districts, or increase residential
densities. Therefore, all potentially significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s
anticipated residential development, such as those relating to solid waste, have already been
adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than
significant through compliance with General Plan Policies and General Plan PEIR mitigation
measures.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-15 and 5.12-16 in Section 5.0.
4.17.g.
Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. Refer to Response 4.17.f.
Future residential development anticipated by the Housing Element would comply with all
Federal, State, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste.
Mitigation Measures: See Mitigation Measures 5.12-15 and 5.12-16 in Section 5.0.
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4.18
MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
Would the project:
a.
b.
c.
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Does the project have the potential to degrade
the quality of the environment, substantially
reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species,
cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below
self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a
plant or animal community, reduce the number
or restrict the range of a rare or endangered
plant or animal or eliminate important examples
of the major periods of California history or
prehistory?
Does the project have impacts that are
individually
limited,
but
cumulatively
considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable”
means that the incremental effects of a project
are considerable when viewed in connection
with the effects of past projects, the effects of
other current projects, and the effects of
probable future projects)?
Does the project have environmental effects,
which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings, either directly or indirectly?
4.18.a.
Impact
Evaluated/
Mitigated in
Earlier
Environmental
Document
Less Than
Significant
With
Mitigation
Incorporated
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact



Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or
endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods
of California history or prehistory?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The proposed Project is the
City of Orange Housing Element Update, which is a policy document addressing demographic
issues and local housing needs in the City for the 2014 to 2021 planning period. The Housing
Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential development yield from
the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling units. Residential
development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917 units City-wide.
As concluded in Section 4.4, Biological Resources, and Section 4.5, Cultural Resources, the
anticipated residential could have an adverse effect on biological and cultural resources.
However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed impacts from development of up to 66,850
dwelling units City-wide (an increase of 23,478 dwelling units), the Project’s anticipated
residential development was already accounted for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR.
Additionally, the Housing Element does not propose to change existing land use designations or
zoning districts. Further, consistent with the General Plan PEIR, the Housing Element
anticipates future housing units primarily being developed through infill and redevelopment
activities on already development sites within the eight Focus Areas. Therefore, all potentially
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significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development,
such as those involving biological or cultural resources, have already been adequately analyzed
in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be avoided/mitigated to less than significant through
compliance with the established regulatory framework, General Plan Policies and Regulations,
and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures.
The proposed Housing Element Update would not degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to
drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the
number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory.
4.18.b.
Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? (“Cumulatively considerable” means that the incremental effects of
a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future
projects)?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The proposed Project is the
Housing Element Update for the City of Orange. The Housing Element is a policy document
designed to aid the City in future planning, and provides the policy and regulatory mechanism to
allow the market development of residential units for the 2014-2021 planning period. While
environmental impacts resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development
of 363 DU could be deemed cumulatively considerable, the evaluation of adequate sites provided
in the Housing Element represent goals for planning and not goals for actual housing production
within the planning period. The actual housing production over the planning period would
depend upon a number of factors including market demand and financing availability and is
unlikely to occur simultaneously. Notwithstanding, the Housing Element’s identified RHNA
need is 363 dwelling units and the potential development yield from the current projects, vacant
land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling units. Residential development in accordance with the
Housing Element would result in 50,917 units City-wide. Because the General Plan PEIR
analyzed the impacts of development of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide (an increase of
23,478 dwelling units), the Project’s anticipated residential development was already accounted
for and analyzed in the General Plan PEIR. In addition, consistent with the General Plan PEIR,
the Housing Element anticipates future housing units primarily being developed through infill
and redevelopment activities on already developed sites within the eight Focus Areas. The
General Plan PEIR analyzed the cumulative impacts of buildout according to the General Plan,
inclusive of the Project’s anticipated residential development. Therefore, all cumulatively
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development
have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
reduced/mitigated through compliance with the established regulatory framework, General Plan
Policies, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures, except that the following would remain
significant and unavoidable:
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
Air Quality: Construction-related emissions; operational emissions; conflict with the Air
Quality Management Plan; exposure to toxic air contaminants;

Transportation/Traffic:
Substantial
segments/intersections; and

Climate Change: Annual GHG emissions would substantially exceed existing levels,
contributing to the exacerbation of climate change.
increase
in
traffic
on
some
arterial
No new cumulatively significant impacts involving these issue areas or substantial increase in
the severity of previously identified significant impacts would occur with Project
implementation.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
4.18.c.
Does the project have environmental effects, which will cause substantial adverse
effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
Impact Evaluated/Mitigated in Earlier Environmental Document. The proposed Project is the
City of Orange Housing Element Update is a policy document addressing demographic issues
and local housing needs in the City for the planning period from 2014 to 2021. The Housing
Element Update provides the policy and regulatory mechanism to allow the market development
of residential units. Given the nature and scope of the anticipated residential development,
environmental effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings are not
anticipated.
The Housing Element’s identified RHNA need is 363 dwelling units and the potential
development yield from the current projects, vacant land, and Focus Areas is 5,702 dwelling
units. Residential development in accordance with the Housing Element would result in 50,917
units City-wide, However, because the General Plan PEIR analyzed the impacts of development
of up to 66,850 dwelling units City-wide (an increase of 23,478 dwelling units), all potentially
significant effects resulting from the Housing Element’s anticipated residential development
have already been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR and can be
avoided/mitigated to less than significant through compliance with the established regulatory
framework, General Plan Policies, and General Plan PEIR mitigation measures (impacts
involving air quality, transportation/traffic, and greenhouse gas emission would remain
significant, as identified above). Through the City’s environmental review process, individual
residential proposals would be evaluated to determine their project-specific impacts for all of the
issue areas cited in Sections 4.1 through 4.17 of this Initial Study. If needed, additional
mitigation for project-specific impacts would be identified.
Mitigation Measures: No mitigation is required.
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5.0
INVENTORY OF GENERAL PLAN
PEIR MITIGATION MEASURES
AESTHETICS
5.1-1
Upon adoption of the General Plan, the City will initiate and update the Zoning Code.
The update will create zoning districts to implement policies in the Elements for Land
Use, Noise, Urban Design, and Cultural Resources. This and all future updates to the
Zoning Code will include an active public participation process. Specific revisions of
the Zoning Code will be completed to address:
-
-
-
A designation process for cultural resources to be listed in the City’s local
register, to include a broad range of historic resources, including separate or
individual buildings, structures, objects, and sites, as well as districts and
archaeological resources.
Adaptive reuse of potential and listed historic resources. The City will
consider provisions for including NCAs as a zoning overlay. The following
planning areas may be considered for this zoning revision: the El Modena,
Cypress Street Barrio, and Railroad/Packinghouse Corridor neighborhoods.
Development interface with Santiago Creek, the Santa Ana River, and other
open space areas.
(Implementation Program I-1; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Police Department; Timeframe – Updated by December 2013)
Until such time as the City adopts the Zoning Ordinance, all new development shall
comply with the lighting, design, viewshed, and related standards set forth in the
current Zoning Code, or the standards established through a development agreement
or specific plan for a particular development project.
5.1-2
Prepare new design criteria for public gathering spaces, tourist commercial uses, rural
development character, view shed protection and preservation, and additional policies
for mixed use development and transit-oriented development as needed. New design
criteria should also include landscape standards that provide buffers such as open
space, urban green zones, and other appropriate transitions between lower density,
single-family neighborhoods and higher density development. Design criteria should
also address standards for the provision of community gathering spaces within private
development, incentives to provide accessible open spaces in commercial and mixed
use corridors, and guidelines for the preservation of visual points of interest
throughout the community.
(Implementation Program I-6; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Update complete by December 2013)
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5.1-3
Prepare, adopt, and implement a pedestrian-oriented streetscape master plan as part of
the City’s decision to enhance the walkability of public spaces, with the goal of
promoting multimodal transportation options. This plan will include the City’s key
commercial corridors, such as Tustin Street, Chapman Avenue, Main Street, and
Katella Avenue. The master plan should integrate concepts discussed for these
corridors throughout the General Plan related to pedestrian facilities, streetscapes,
urban green zones, façade improvements, and signage, including:
-
-
Identifying pedestrian links that need improvement and strengthening;
Ensuring adequate sidewalk widths to accommodate lighting, street trees,
benches, and trash cans;
Establishing design character, standards, and guidelines for proposed outdoor
spaces, paseos, and pedestrian paths;
Establishing design character, standards, and guidelines for proposed outdoor
spaces, paseos, and pedestrian paths;
Incorporating more functional and appealing outdoor spaces, paseos, and
pedestrian paths within retrofits of current streetscapes as well as within new
development;
Integrating public open space (e.g., plazas, neighborhood parks, pocket parks)
in commercial and mixed use corridors;
Providing transit amenities such as bus stops, shelters, and lighting; and
Helping to reduce conflicts between land uses.
The streetscape master plan should include sidewalk, transit, open space, and
landscape design and standards. The planning process will include an active public
participation component.
(Implementation Program I-13; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Economic Development Department;
Timeframe – Adopt by 2015)
5.1-4
Develop a Streetscape Improvement Program for major and minor streetscapes,
bikeways, and trails that includes standard plans and design criteria for unified
lighting; paving materials and patterns; and landscaping such as street trees, median
and slope planting, and landscaped parkways. The Streetscape Improvement Program
also includes development of specific standards to define and designate the following
City Scenic Highways:
-
Jamboree Road
Santiago Canyon Road
Newport Boulevard
(Implementation Program I-14; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Community Services Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
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5.1-5
Update design guidelines to incorporate the elements of community design character
that reflect Orange’s historic and cultural background. Require new development to
incorporate the elements of the community’s character and design into its projects.
Determine how to retrofit the existing commercial, industrial, institutional, and mixed
use areas to include the community character elements. Community character
elements can include, but are not limited to, architectural style, landscape style,
streetscape, and signage.
(Implementation Program I-24; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Economic Development Department;
Timeframe – Adopt by 2014)
5.1-6
Seek and develop appropriate incentives for project applicants and developers that
provide public access to private green spaces in new, infill, and existing development.
Work to establish neighborhood identity through the use of green spaces. When
developed, incorporate applicable incentives into the Zoning Code to facilitate the
provisions of applicable green spaces. Establish a program to transfer to the City,
through land exchanges, purchases, or long-term no-fee leases, land that is not
currently in productive use such as derelict land, tax delinquent land, surplus road and
highway rights-of-way, and other land located adjacent to existing open spaces,
waterways, or trails.
(Implementation Program I-25; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe – Complete by 2016)
5.1-7
Comply with all City procedures in the review of proposed development projects, and
use the site plan review process to ensure that applicable General Plan policies and
City standards and regulations are applied to proposals for specific development
projects.
(Implementation Program III-2; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Police Department, Fire Department,
Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.1-8
As part of the development application and review process, coordinate with SCE,
Time Warner Cable, Cox Communications, AT&T, cellular telephone service
providers, and other local utilities to assess capacity and infrastructure needs to
support new development or development activities. Require that utilities be moved
underground consistent with the City’s Master Utility Undergrounding Plan.
(Implementation Program V-1; Responsible Party – City Manager, Community
Development Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
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5.1-9
Adopt, review, implement, and update as necessary the following master plans,
standards, and guidelines:
-
Scenic highway standards for Santiago Canyon Road, Jamboree Road, and
Newport Boulevard
Historic Preservation Design Standards for Old Towne
Design guidelines and/or standards for large complexes or districts of
potential or listed historic resources
Infill Residential Guidelines
Street Tree Master Plan
Master Utility Undergrounding Plan
Tustin Street Design Standards
Design standards for areas where the General Plan is changing land uses,
including the Southwest Project Area, Chapman Avenue, Katella Avenue, and
South Main Street.
AIR QUALITY
5.3-1
Comply with all provisions of CEQA. In addition to thresholds that may be
established or adopted by the City in the future, utilize the following thresholds
and/or procedures for CEQA analysis of proposed projects, consistent with policies
adopted within the General Plan:
Circulation
- LOS D (volume to capacity [V/C] ratio less than or equal to 0.90) shall be the
lowest acceptable level of service for both roadway segments and peak-hour
intersection movements.
- Orange County’s Congestion Management Plan (CMP) specifies LOS E (V/C
ratio less than or equal to 1.00) as the operating standard for roadways on the
CMP highway system.
- Projects that increase V/C by 0.01 or more on affected roadway segments or
intersections experiencing LOS E or F conditions without the proposed project
are considered to create significant impacts, and mitigation is required.
All future development proposals shall be reviewed by the City for potential regional
and local air quality impacts per CEQA. If potential impacts are identified,
mitigation will be required to reduce the impact to a level less than significant, where
technically and economically feasible.
(Implementation Program III-1; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Community Services Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
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5.3-2
Require major employers of 100 persons or more to institute TDM Plans. Such plans
establish incentives to encourage employees to carpool, take public transportation,
bicycle, or use some means other than private automobiles to get to and from work.
(Implementation Program III-5; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.3-3
The City strongly encourages new development and major renovation projects to
employ green building techniques and materials. Encourage proposed development
projects throughout the City to use Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEED) Standards developed by the U.S. Green Building Council or similar thirdparty verified program. Encourage building orientations and landscaping that
enhance natural lighting and sun exposure. Prepare guidelines for sustainable
development to encourage incorporation of these practices in new development.
These guidelines will include measures to maximize soil permeability to address
related storm water and surface-water runoff issues. Require compliance with State
Title 24 building construction standards and Energy Star conservation standards for
all development projects. Climate change mitigation measures identified in the
General Plan EIR shall be incorporated as implementation programs and applied to
new development projects upon adoption of the General Plan.
(Implementation Program III-11; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.3-4
Use public education activities to accomplish the following objectives:
-
-
-
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Educate residents regarding air and water quality, including the effects of
urban runoff;
Raise public awareness about the importance of “green building” techniques;
and Educate the public regarding the benefits of recycling and waste
reduction.
Coordinate education activities and make materials available to residents.
Utilize all available media including forums, flyers, brochures, email, videos,
interpretive displays, workshops, and the City’s website and cable television
channel to accomplish these objectives. Fully utilize the resources of the
Orange Public Library to disseminate this information. Explore partnerships
with local schools and educators to develop various educational programs
related to historic preservation, personal and community safety, and
environmental awareness. (Implementation Program IV-3; Responsible Party
Community Development Department, Public Works Department, Fire
Department, Police Department, Library Services Department, Community
Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
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5.3-5
Participate in regional efforts to implement TDM requirements and support
implementation of the employer TDM provisions of the SCAQMD AQMP by
working with the SCAQMD to identify employers within Orange most suitable for
participation in the TDM programs to achieve major reduction of VMT.
(Implementation Program IV- 6; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.3-6
Work with SCAQMD and SCAG to implement the AQMP and meet all federal and
state air quality standards for pollutants. Participate in any future amendments and
updates to the AQMP.
(Implementation Program V-10; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.3-7
The City shall require each project applicant to implement the following measures to
reduce the exposure of sensitive receptors to TACs from mobile sources, as a
condition of project approval: sensitive receptors to TACs from mobile sources, as a
condition of project approval:
-
-
Activities involving idling trucks shall be oriented as far away from and
downwind of existing or proposed sensitive receptors as feasible.
Strategies shall be incorporated to reduce the idling time of main propulsion
engines through alternative technologies such as IdleAire, electrification of
truck parking, and alternative energy sources for TRUs to allow diesel engines
to be completely turned off.
Proposed developments shall incorporate site plans that move sensitive
receptors as far as feasibly possible from major roadways (100,000+ average
daily trips). Projects containing sensitive receptors (such as residences,
schools, day care centers, and medical facilities) on sites within 500 feet of a
freeway must demonstrate that health risks relating to diesel particulates
would not exceed acceptable health risk standards prior to project approval.
Responsible Party – Community Development Department, Public Works
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing
5.12-14
The City strongly encourages new development and major renovation projects to
employ green building techniques and materials. Encourage proposed development
projects throughout the City to incorporate Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design (LEED) Standards developed by the U.S. Green Building Council or an
equivalent program. Encourage building orientations and landscaping that enhance
natural lighting and sun exposure. Prepare guidelines for sustainable development to
encourage incorporation of these practices in new development. These guidelines
will include measures to maximize soil permeability to address related stormwater
and surface-water runoff issues. Require compliance with State Title 24 building
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construction standards and Energy Star conservation standards for all development
projects. Climate change mitigation measures identified in the General Plan EIR
shall be incorporated as implementation programs and applied to new development
projects upon adoption of the General Plan.
(Implementation Program III-11; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
5.4-1
Analyze development proposals for potential impacts to significant ecological and
biological resources. Require appropriate mitigation for all significant impacts if
impact avoidance is not possible. Mitigation measures for habitat and species may
include, but are not limited to, avoidance, enhancement, restoration, or a combination
of any of the three.
(Implementation Program III-13; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.4-2
Continue to coordinate with state and federal wildlife agencies in an effort to protect
rare or endangered species of plants and animals. Require that all development
activities adhere to state and federal legislation that protects all sensitive plants and
animals. Coordinate with these agencies for City efforts to restore portions of
Santiago Creek, to develop bike trails and pathways adjacent to Santiago Creek, to
recognize the archaeological significance of Santiago Creek, and to integrate natural
landscape components within the design of projects adjacent to waterways.
(Implementation Program V-11; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Community Services Department, Public Works Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.4-3
Prior to making land use decisions, the City will utilize available methods to estimate
increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from projected future development.
The City will follow the most current National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) Permit and County of Orange Drainage Area Master Plan and the
City Drainage Area Management Plan to ensure that the City complies with
applicable state and federal regulations. Applicants for new development and
redevelopment projects shall prepare and submit plans to the City, as well as
implement plans demonstrating accomplishment of the following:
-
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Use structural and nonstructural best management practices (BMPs) to
mitigate projected increases in pollutant loads and flows;
Control the velocity of pollutant loading flows during and after construction;
Limit areas of impervious surfaces and preserve natural areas;
Limit directly connected areas of impervious surfaces;
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Use natural treatment systems such as wetlands and bioswales to treat storm
runoff where technically and economically feasible;
Provide on-site infiltration and runoff and temporary on-site retention areas;
Limit disturbance of natural water bodies, natural drainage systems, and
highly erodible areas; and
Use pollution prevention methods, source controls, and treatment using small
collection strategies located at, or as close as possible to, the source. In
addition, applicants for large development projects are required to prepare and
implement plans that meet site predevelopment hydrologic conditions and to
control runoff on-site where technically feasible.
(Implementation Program III-8; Responsible Party – Public Works Department,
Community Development Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.4-4
Comply with all provisions of the NPDES permit, and support regional efforts by the
Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to improve and protect
surface water quality.
(Implementation Program V-9; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.4-5
Support compliance with the Central Orange County NCCP/HCP. Participate in any
future update to the NCCP/HCP. Coordinate with the Fire Department and related
agencies to ensure consideration of NCCP habitat areas when planning fuel
modification zones.
(Implementation Program V-13; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Fire Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.4-6
Continue to work with local and regional open space preservation organizations and
state and federal agencies to identify and conserve urban open space and protect lands
accessible for public use. Pursue grants and other resources to plan for open space
preservation and, as appropriate, purchase properties to be included in the open space
system. Use conservation easements where feasible as part of the City’s open space
acquisition program.
(Implementation Program V-14; Responsible Party – City Manager’s Office,
Community Development Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe
– Ongoing)
CULTURAL RESOURCES
5.5-1
Comply with all provisions of CEQA. In addition to thresholds that may be
established or adopted by the City in the future, use the following thresholds and/or
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procedures for CEQA analysis of proposed projects, consistent with policies adopted
within the General Plan:
Historic and Cultural Resources
- “Historical resource” for the purposes of CEQA shall mean “historic district”
in the case of a contributor to a historic district.
- Historic resources listed in the City’s Historic Register shall have a
presumption of significance pursuant to CEQA Statute §21084.1 and shall be
treated as historical resources under CEQA.
- The historical significance of an archaeological historic resource is evaluated
using the criteria of Public Resource Code §5024.1 and CEQA Guidelines,
§15064.5 et seq.
(Implementation Program III-1; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.5-2
Apply to the OHP for inclusion in the Certified Local Government (CLG) program.
Successful application includes several requirements:
-
Enact appropriate historic preservation regulations through an adopted historic
preservation ordinance.
Establish an adequate and qualified historic preservation review commission.
Maintain a system for the survey and inventory of historic properties.
Provide for adequate public participation in the historic preservation program.
Satisfactorily perform the responsibilities delegated to the CLG.
(Implementation Program I-16; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Application completed by 2012)
5.5-3
Create the Historic Register, which will serve as the local register of historical
resources under CEQA. Automatically include all resources previously designated,
listed, or determined eligible for listing within the NRHP or California Register.
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Establish a process for handling voluntary requests for listing in the Historic
Register.
Support coordination with property owners of potential historic resources
identified in the Orange Inventory, so that such potential historic resources
can more readily be listed in the Historic Register.
Establish a process for listing in the Historic Register those buildings,
structures, objects, sites, or districts that meet the criteria.
Establish procedures to remove historic resources from the Historic Register.
Establish procedures for listing archaeological resources in the Historic
Register.
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Employ appropriate criteria for evaluating potential significance of such
archaeological resources as historical resources or unique archaeological resources
under CEQA. Encourage voluntary listing of eligible archaeological resources.
(Implementation Program I-17; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Register established by 2011, maintenance ongoing)
5.5-4
Pursue historic landmark district designation for three Eichler Homes tracts. Notify
property owners in three Eichler tracts including Fairhaven, Fairhills, and
Fairmeadow of the intent to list each of the three tracts separately as local historic
districts and follow established procedures for Historic Register listing of each.
(Implementation Program I-18; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Landmark Districts established by 2013)
5.5-5
Continue to maintain an accessible and periodically updated inventory of potential
resources. All surveyed properties will be included in the Orange Inventory, and the
Orange Inventory will be a valuable planning tool to be used in evaluating possible
impacts a proposed project might have on previously evaluated potential and
identified historic resources. Surveys and survey updates may be conducted by
qualified preservation professionals in accordance with Secretary of Interior
Standards criteria. Properties that have attained 45 years of age and are located
within a designated historic district or NCA shall be subject to survey prior to
issuance of any permit for alteration or demolition. Survey other areas where
potential for historic resources may exist. Identify smaller character areas where
concentrations of potential or listed historic resources reflect unique senses of time
and place. Use the Orange Inventory to identify potential historic resources for
purposes of CEQA, NHPA, and NEPA review of proposed projects. Only if potential
historic resources in the Orange Inventory are listed in or eligible for listing in the
California Register for CEQA or the NRHP for the NHPA and NEPA shall they have
a presumption of significance pursuant to CEQA Statute §21084.1 and be treated as
historical resources under CEQA. Potential historic resources identified in the
Orange Inventory may be listed in the Historic Register if they meet criteria for listing
in the California Register.
(Implementation Program I-19; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Adopt by 2014)
5.5-6
Actively pursue grants, loans, and other incentives to encourage historic preservation.
Consider implementing conservation easements. Develop a revolving loan program
for maintenance and rehabilitation work, consistent with design standards, on listed
historic resources and on resources that are contributors to listed historic districts.
Develop a voluntary conservation easement program to preserve listed historic
resources and contributors to listed historic districts. Provide a potential tax benefit to
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property owners. Establish a partnership with local preservation organizations to
accept, hold, and manage conservation easements on historic resources.
(Implementation Program I-20; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.5-7
Explore establishing a commemorative plaque program to allow public recognition of
properties listed in the Historic Register. Develop and administer standards and
guidelines for properties eligible for the commemorative plaque program.
(Implementation Program I-21; Responsible Party – Community organizations in
coordination with the Community Development Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.5-8
Officially recognize the Historic Context Statement prepared in tandem with the
General Plan Update. Periodically update the Statement to add recent historical
events. Officially recognize the recent completed historical and archaeological
resources survey prepared in tandem with the updated General Plan. Update and
maintain the inventory using the City’s Geographic Information System (GIS).
(Implementation Program I-22; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – ongoing)
5.5-9
Designate El Modena, Cypress Street Barrio, and the Railroad/Packinghouse
Corridor, and Orange Park Acres as NCAs by establishing an NCA overlay zone and
appropriate standards and regulations in the Zoning Code. Develop and administer
design guidelines appropriate to each designated NCA.
(Implementation Program I-23; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, City Council; Timeframe – Complete by 2015)
5.5-10
Require cultural resources inventories of all new development projects in areas
identified with medium or high potential for archaeological or cultural resources.
Where a preliminary site survey finds medium to high potential for substantial
archaeological remains, the City shall require a mitigation plan to protect the resource
before issuance of permits. Mitigation may include:
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Ensuring that a qualified archaeologist is present during initial grading or
trenching (monitoring);
Redesigning the project to avoid archaeological resources (this is considered
the strongest tool for preserving archaeological resources);
Capping the site with a layer of fill; and/or
Excavating and removing the archaeological resources (recovery) and
implementing curation in an appropriate facility under the direction of a
qualified archaeologist (interpretation). Alert applicants for permits within
early settlement areas to the potential sensitivity. If significant archaeological
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resources are discovered during construction or grading activities, such
activities shall cease in the immediate area of the find until a qualified
archaeologist can determine the significance of the resource and recommend
alternative mitigation.
If an archaeological inventory survey is required, the final stage is the preparation of
a professional report detailing the findings and recommendations of the records
search and field survey. The final report containing site forms, site significance, and
mitigation measures should be submitted immediately to the Orange Community
Development Department. All information regarding site locations, Native American
human remains, and associated funerary objects should be in a separate confidential
addendum, and not be made available for public disclosure. The final written report
should be submitted to the appropriate regional archaeological Information Center
within three months after work has been completed. The City shall ensure that
project applicants contact the Native American Heritage Commission for a Sacred
Lands File Check and a list of appropriate Native American contacts for consultation
concerning the project site and to assist in crafting the mitigation measures.
(Implementation Program III-10)
5.5-11
Establish the Archaeological Resources Management Report (ARMR Preservation
Bulletin) as the standard report format for all documentation and accept reports only
from registered professional archaeologists knowledgeable in Native American
cultures and/or historical archaeology (qualified archaeologists).
(Implementation Program III-14; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.5-12
Continue to use the Secretary’s Standards as a basis for design review. Update the
City’s Demolition Ordinance to include that any approved demolition permit for
listed historic resources shall be automatically subject to a delay before the permit for
demolition may be issued. The property owner will strive to develop alternatives to
demolition that will preserve the historic resources. The Community Development
Director shall appoint a City of Orange Preservation Officer (Preservation Officer).
In lieu of such appointment, the Director shall serve as Preservation Officer.
(Implementation Program III-15; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, City Council; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.5-13
The City will continue to support efforts by California’s OHP to administer federal
and state-mandated historic preservation programs in California, including the
following:
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California Historical Landmarks;
California Points of Historical Interest;
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California Register of Historical Resources;
National Register of Historic Places;
Secretary of Interior Standards; and
CEQA.
The Mills Act is another preservation tool created by the California legislature,
enabling cities to enter into historical property agreements with owners of qualifying
properties that result in reductions to the owners’ property taxes. The agreements
provide a benefit that ensures preservation and guarantees authentic rehabilitations
and a high level of maintenance of historic resources. The City will continue to
encourage use of the Mills Act provisions by private property owners.
(Implementation Program V-16: Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.5-14
Develop partnerships with local history and preservation organizations to prepare
Historic Context Statement updates, undertake new surveys, and update surveys.
Partner with local history and preservation organizations to develop a citywide
interpretive program, including signs, plaques, exhibits, and other similar elements, to
increase awareness of the City’s history and its historic resources.
(Implementation Program V- 17; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Library Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
GEOLOGY/SOILS
5.6-1
Pursuant to state law, geologic and/or geotechnical studies are required for proposed
new development projects located in areas identified as susceptible to landslides and
liquefaction, and for areas within an Earthquake Fault Zone or within 150 feet of an
active or potentially active fault. Binding mitigation strategies must be adopted.
Compliance with the recommendations set forth in site-specific geologic and/or
geotechnical studies will be made a condition of approval for new development. In
addition, the City may require applicants to incorporate measures to stabilize and
maintain slopes on a site-by-site basis, such as, but not limited to, proper planting,
irrigation, retaining walls, and benching.
(Implementation Program III-9; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.6-2
The City will implement the following action to ensure that land use planning and
real estate processes fully account for the presence of seismic hazards in Orange.
Work with the County of Orange and California Geological Survey to monitor and
compile information on faults within the Orange planning area.
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(Responsible Party – Community Development Department, Public Works
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.6-3
The City shall use open space easements and other regulatory techniques to prohibit
development and avoid public safety hazards where the threat from seismic hazards
cannot be mitigated.
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.6-4
The City will maintain erosion protection measures in areas susceptible to erosion.
The City shall require all future development to implement erosion protection during
construction in compliance with NPDES requirements.
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department, Public Works
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS (CLIMATE CHANGE)
5.15-1
Within 24 months of adoption of the General Plan and certification of the EIR, the
City shall establish a global climate change action plan that includes a baseline
inventory of all GHG emissions associated with all residences, businesses, industries,
agriculture, municipal operations, and other sources within the City limits;
establishment of a GHG emissions reduction target; development of enforceable,
feasible GHG emissions reduction measures to meet the established target; and
performance monitoring of the GHG emissions reduction measures to occur every 3
years to ensure the emissions reductions are being achieved.
(Implementation Program I-35; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – To be developed and adopted by December 2011)
5.15-2
Within 12 months of the effective date of the proposed general plan, City staff shall
submit to the City Council an ordinance that requires and/or provides incentives for:
(1) specified new residential development to comply with a specified green building
program or show that its development provides comparable effectiveness to such a
program; and (2) specified non-residential development of a specified size comply
with a specified green building program or show that its development provides
comparable effectiveness to such a program.
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department; Timeframe – To be
developed and submitted by December 2010)
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HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
5.7-1
Continue to assess risks associated with hazardous materials and develop mitigation
measures accordingly. Identify hazardous material release sites and responsible
parties and ensure that the sites are appropriately remediated.
(Implementation Program I-29; Responsible Party – Fire Department, Public Works
Development; Timeframe - Ongoing)
5.7-2
Continue to work with the Orange County Airport Land Use Commission to increase
safety and reduce noise associated with aircraft overflights and helicopter operations
within the City by achieving the following objectives:
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Work with the FAA and local airports (John Wayne Airport, Long Beach
Airport, Los Alamitos Army Air Base) to determine appropriate aircraft
altitude standards for aircraft flying over the City, taking into account public
health and safety.
Continue to regulate the siting and operation of heliport/helistops through the
Conditional Use Permit Process in conjunction with the Orange County
Airport Land Use Commission and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
Work with the heliport/helistop operators (police, fire, hospital, and private) to
implement flight profiles, and operating parameters for noise control.
(Implementation Program V-17; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.7-3
The City shall maintain, equip, and update the Emergency Operations Center on an
ongoing basis to improve public safety and agencies response.
(Implementation Program II-5; Responsible Party – City’s Manager’s Office, Fire
Department, Police Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.7-4
The City shall continually update building and fire codes to: Ensure that new
development and retrofitted development reduce potential damage from earthquakes,
floods, fire, wind, liquefaction, and other natural hazards.
(Implementation Program I-9; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Fire Department, Economic Development Department; Timeframe –
Ongoing)
5.7-5
The City shall continue to evaluate and update information available to the City
regarding potential fire hazards and hazard areas. Provide public information
regarding defensible space surrounding residences and businesses. Use Wildland
Fuel Modification guidelines for controlling vegetation in undeveloped areas, and
Wildland Urban Interface Code and weed abatement standards.
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(Implementation Program I-27; Responsible Party – Fire Department; Timeframe –
Ongoing)
5.7-6
Use public education activities to accomplish the following objectives:
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Raise public awareness of public safety issues including fire safety, flood
hazards, homeland security, and other programs; and
Educate the public regarding the benefits of recycling and waste reduction.
Coordinate education activities and make materials available to residents.
Utilize all available media, including forums, flyers, brochures, email, videos,
interpretive displays, workshops, and the City’s website to accomplish these
objectives. Fully utilize the resources of the Orange Public Library to
disseminate this information. Explore partnerships with local schools and
educators to develop an educational program in historic preservation, personal
and community safety, and environmental awareness.
(Implementation Program IV-3; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Fire Department, Police Department, Library
Services Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.7-7
Adopt, review, implement, and update as necessary the following master plans,
standards, and guidelines:
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Multi-Hazard Functional Plan, including
Emergency Operations Plan and evacuation routes.
(Implementation Program I-4; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Fire Department, Police Department,
Economic Development Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe –
Ongoing)
HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY
5.8-1
Support efforts by the OCFCD to regularly maintain flood control channels and
structures owned by the OCFCD, and to complete necessary repairs in a timely
manner. Work with the OCFCD and USACE to identify new flood control
improvements and establish installation programs for improvements as needed. Work
with the OCFCD to identify opportunities to enhance the natural qualities of Santiago
Creek to protect habitat and reintroduce native plants, animals, and fish.
(Implementation Program V-11; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Community Services Department, Public Works Development;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
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5.8-2
Continue to inspect storm drains, remove debris from catch basins as needed, and
evaluate and monitor water storage facilities to determine if they pose a water
inundation hazard.
(Implementation Program I-32; Responsible Party – Public Works Development;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.8-3
Before making land use decisions, the City will utilize available methods to estimate
increases in pollutant loads and flows resulting from projected future development.
The City will follow the most current NPDES Permit and County of Orange DAMP
to ensure that the City complies with applicable federal and state regulations.
Applicants for new development and redevelopment projects shall demonstrate
accomplishment of the following:
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Use structural and nonstructural BMPs to mitigate projected increases in
pollutant loads and flows;
Control the velocity of pollutant loading flows during and after construction;
Limit areas of impervious surface and preserve natural areas;
Limit directly connected areas of impervious surfaces;
Use natural treatment systems such as wetlands and bioswales to treat storm
runoff where technically and economically feasible;
Provide on-site infiltration and temporary on-site retention areas;  Limit
disturbance of natural water bodies, natural drainage systems, and highly
erodable areas; and
Use pollution prevention methods, source controls, and treatment with small
collection strategies located at or as close as possible to the source. In
addition, applicants for large development projects are required to meet site
predevelopment hydrologic conditions and to retain runoff on-site where
technically feasible.
(Implementation Program III-8; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Community Services Department, Public Works Development;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.8-4
Comply and implement all provisions of the NPDES permit and support regional
efforts by the Santa Ana RWQCB to improve and protect water quality.
(Implementation Program V-9; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Development; Timeframe – Ongoing)
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NOISE
5.10-1
Comply with all provisions of CEQA. In addition to thresholds that may be
established or adopted by the City in the future, use the following thresholds and
procedures for CEQA analysis of proposed projects, consistent with policies adopted
within the General Plan:
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The City shall apply the noise standards specified in Table N-3 and N-4 of the
Noise Element to proposed projects analyzed under CEQA.
In addition to the foregoing, an increase in ambient noise levels is assumed to
be a significant noise impact if a proposed project causes ambient noise levels
to exceed the following:
• Where the existing ambient noise level is less than 60 dBA, a projectrelated permanent increase in ambient noise levels of 5 dBA CNEL or
greater
• Where the existing ambient noise level is greater than 60 dBA, a
project-related permanent increase in ambient noise levels of 3 dBA
CNEL or greater.
(Implementation Program III-1; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Community Services Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing).
5.10-2
Review development proposals to ensure that the noise standards and compatibility
criteria set forth in the Noise Element are met. Consult Noise Element guidelines and
standards for noise compatible land uses to determine the suitability of proposed
developments relative to existing and forecasted noise levels. Enforce the California
Noise Insulation Standards to ensure an acceptable interior noise level of 45 dBA
CNEL in habitable rooms. Amend the Noise Ordinance to implement the noise
standards presented in Tables N-3 and N-4 of the Noise Element. Develop noise
impact analysis guidelines that describe the City’s desired procedure and format for
acoustical studies. Acoustical studies will be required for all discretionary projects
where any of the following apply:
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The project includes a noise sensitive land use that is located within the
existing or future 65 dBA CNEL contour for transportation noise sources.
The project will cause future traffic volumes to increase by 25 percent or more
on any roadway that fronts residential, institutional, or open space land uses.
The project will expose a noise sensitive land use to a stationary noise source
or vibration source exceeding the standards outlined in Table N-4 of the Noise
Element. Such stationary sources may include mechanical equipment
operations, entertainment venues, industrial facilities, and property
maintenance.
The project includes a noise sensitive land use in the vicinity of existing or
proposed commercial and industrial areas.
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The project is a mixed use development that includes a residential component.
The focus of this type of acoustical study is to determine likely interior and
exterior noise levels and to recommend appropriate design features to reduce
noise.
An acoustical analysis prepared in accordance with the Noise Element shall:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
be the financial responsibility of the applicant seeking City approval of
a project;
be prepared by a qualified person experienced in the fields of
environmental noise assessment and architectural acoustics;
include representative noise level measurements with sufficient
sampling periods and locations to adequately describe local conditions
and predominant noise sources;
estimate existing and projected cumulative (20 years) noise in terms of
CNEL or Leq, and compare those noise levels to the adopted standards
and policies of the Noise Element;
recommend appropriate mitigation to achieve compliance with the
adopted policies and standards of the Noise Element. Where the noise
source in question consists of intermittent single events, the report
must address the effects of maximum noise levels in sleeping rooms in
terms of possible sleep disturbance;
estimate noise exposure after the prescribed mitigation measures have
been implemented; and
describe a post-project assessment program that could be used to
evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures.
(Implementation Program I-34; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing).
5.10-3
The City shall require construction contractors to implement the following measures
during construction activities through contract provisions and/or conditions of
approval as appropriate:
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Construction equipment shall be properly maintained per manufacturers’
specifications and fitted with the best available noise suppression devices (i.e.,
mufflers, silencers, wraps, etc.)
Shroud or shield all impact tools, and muffle or shield all intake and exhaust
ports on power equipment.
Construction operations and related activities associated with the proposed
project shall comply with the operational hours outlined in the City of Orange
Municipal Code Noise Ordinance, or mitigate noise at sensitive land uses to
below Orange Municipal Code standards.
Construction equipment should not be idled for extended periods of time in
the vicinity of noise sensitive receptors.
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Locate fixed and/or stationary equipment as far as possible from noise
sensitive receptors (e.g., generators, compressors, rock crushers, cement
mixers). Shroud or shield all impact tools, and muffle or shield all intake and
exhaust ports on powered construction equipment.
Where feasible, temporary barriers shall be placed as close to the noise source
or as close to the receptor as possible and break the line of sight between the
source and receptor where modeled levels exceed applicable standards.
Acoustical barriers shall be constructed material having a minimum surface
weight of 2 pounds per square foot or greater, and a demonstrated Sound
Transmission Class (STC) rating of 25 or greater as defined by American
Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Test Method E90. Placement,
orientation, size, and density of acoustical barriers shall be specified by a
qualified acoustical consultant.
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department, Public Works
Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing).
5.10-4
Implement the following strategies to reduce vehicular traffic noise throughout the
City:
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Review and designate local truck routes to reduce truck traffic in noise
sensitive land uses areas.
Consider the use of traffic calming devices, to reduce traffic speed in
residential zones.
Consider the use of alternative paving materials, such as open graded asphalt,
to reduce traffic noise where determined feasible and cost efficient.
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department, Public Works
Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.10-5
Establish train-horn “quiet zones” consistent with the federal Train Horn Rule along
the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line. Coordinate with rail agencies and
operators, OCTA, SCRRA, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in the
planning of noise abatement along rail corridors.
(Implementation Program I-28; Responsible Party – Public Works Department;
Timeframe – Complete by 2011)
5.10-6
Update the Noise Ordinance to incorporate the new point-source noise standards
presented in Table N-4 in the Noise Element. Revise the City’s Noise Ordinance to
achieve the following:
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Limit the hours of deliveries to commercial, mixed use, and industrial uses
adjacent to residential and other noise sensitive land uses.
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Limit the hours of operation for commercial/retail/entertainment uses to limit
noise intrusion into nearby residential and other noise sensitive land uses.
Limit noise levels generated by commercial and industrial uses.
Limit outdoor industrial activities or operations to control excessive noise at
adjacent residential properties.
Limit the hours of operation of high noise-generating industrial equipment.
Limit the hours of operation for refuse vehicles and parking lot sweepers if
their activity results in an excessive noise level that adversely affects adjacent
residential uses.
Require the placement of loading and unloading areas so that commercial
buildings shield nearby residential land uses from noise generated by loading
dock and delivery activities. If necessary, additional sound barriers shall be
constructed on the commercial sites to protect nearby noise sensitive uses.
Require the placement of all commercial HVAC machinery to be placed
within mechanical equipment rooms wherever possible.
(Equipment
manufacturer’s specifications for venting and access to outside air shall be
maintained.)
Require the provision of localized noise barriers or rooftop parapets around
HVAC, cooling towers, and mechanical equipment so that line-of-sight to the
noise source from the property line of the noise sensitive receptors is blocked.
(Equipment manufacturer’s specifications for venting and access to outside air
shall be maintained).
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department; Timeframe – Complete
by 2012)
5.10-7
Continue to enforce the City’s Noise Ordinance limits for industrial uses to limit the
effect of noise on adjacent land uses. Update the Noise Ordinance to incorporate the
new noise standards presented in Tables N-3 and N-4 in the Noise Element and to
ensure effectiveness in controlling noise sources.
(Implementation Program I-30; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Police Department; Timeframe – Complete by 2013)
5.10-8
When the City exercises discretionary review, provides financial assistance, or
otherwise facilitates residential development within a mixed use area, make providing
written warnings to potential residents about noise intrusion a condition of that
approval, assistance, or facilitation. The following language is provided as an
example:
“All potential buyers and/or renters of residential property within mixed use
districts in the City of Orange are hereby notified that they may be subject to
audible noise levels generated by business and entertainment related
operations common to such areas, including amplified sound, music, delivery
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and passenger vehicles, mechanical noise, pedestrians, and other urban noise
sources.”
(Implementation Program III-12; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing).
5.10-9
Continue to work with the Orange County ALUC to increase safety and reduce noise
associated with aircraft overflights and helicopter operations within the City by
achieving the following objectives:
-
-
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Work with the FAA and local airports (John Wayne Airport, Long Beach
Airport, Los Alamitos Army Air Base) to determine appropriate aircraft
altitude standards for aircraft flying over the City, taking into account public
health and safety.
Continue to regulate the siting and operation of heliport/helistops through the
Conditional Use Permit process in conjunction with the Orange County
ALUC and Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
Work with the heliport/helistop operators (police, fire, hospital, and private) to
implement flight profiles, tracks, and operating parameters for noise control.
(Implementation Program V-18; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing Complete by 2013)
5.10-10
Implement the following measures to reduce the potential for human annoyance and
architectural/structural damage resulting from elevated ground borne noise and
vibration levels:
Construction-Induced Vibration
The City shall implement or require implementation of the following measures
through contract provisions and/or conditions of approval as appropriate:
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Pile driving required within a 50-foot radius of historic structures shall utilize
alternative installation methods where possible (e.g., pile cushioning, jetting,
pre-drilling, cast-in-place systems, resonance-free vibratory pile drivers).
Specifically, geo pier style cast-in-place systems or equivalent shall be used
where feasible as an alternative to pile driving to reduce the number and
amplitude of impacts required for seating the pile.
The preexisting condition of all buildings within a 50-foot radius and of
historic buildings within the immediate vicinity of proposed construction
activities shall be recorded in the form of a preconstruction survey. The
preconstruction survey shall determine conditions that exist before
construction begins for use in evaluating damage caused by construction
activities. Fixtures and finishes within a 50-foot radius of construction
activities susceptible to damage shall be documented (photographically and in
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writing) prior to construction. All damage will be repaired back to its
preexisting condition.
Vibration monitoring shall be conducted prior to and during pile driving
operations occurring within 100 feet of the historic structures. Every attempt
shall be made to limit construction-generated vibration levels in accordance
with Caltrans recommendations during pile driving and impact activities in the
vicinity of the historic structures.
Provide protective coverings or temporary shoring of on-site or adjacent
historic features as necessary, in consultation with the Community
Development Director or designee.
Railroad-Induced Vibration
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Vibration sensitive uses shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from the
railroad centerline, where feasible. To ensure compliance with FTA and
Caltrans recommended guidelines, a site-specific groundborne noise and
vibration assessment should be conducted. For sensitive uses located within
100 feet of the railroad centerline, the acoustical noise and vibration
assessment shall demonstrate that potential impacts will be below the level of
significance. If specific project-level impacts are identified, mitigation
measures reducing the impacts to below the level of significance will be
required.
A groundborne vibration assessment shall be conducted at proposed building
pad locations within 200 feet of railroad right-of-ways, prior to project
approval. Vibration monitoring and assessment shall be conducted by a
qualified acoustical consultant. The assessment will demonstrate that railassociated groundborne vibration and noise levels comply with recommended
FTA and Caltrans guidance of 80 VdB and 0.2 in/sec PPV, respectively, or
propose project-specific mitigation measures such as site design, building
isolation, etc. to achieve that standard.
(Responsible Party – Community Development Department, Public Works
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
PUBLIC SERVICES AND UTILITIES
5.12-1
Maintain, equip, and update the Emergency Operations Center on an ongoing basis to
improve public safety and response by agencies, and coordinate and incorporate
changes with the Multi-Hazard Functional Plan.
(Implementation Program II-5; Responsible Party – City Manager’s Office, Fire
Department, and Police Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-2
Comply with all City procedures in the review of proposed development projects, and
use the site plan review process to ensure that applicable General Plan policies and
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City standards and regulations are applied to proposals for specific development
projects.
(Implementation Program III-2; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Police Department, Fire Department, and
Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-3
During the development application process, consult with fire and police departments
to evaluate the need for additional fire and police facilities or resources to serve new
development projects and infill development areas. During updates to the Capital
Improvement Program process, coordinate with service providers to evaluate the level
of fire and police service provided to the community. Continue to use state-of-the-art
techniques and technology to enhance public safety and assess adequacy and plan for
upgrades during updates to the Capital Improvement Program and updates to the
City’s Operating Budget. Adhere to requirements in the Municipal Code for adequate
street widths and clearance for emergency access. Integrate Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design (CPTED) techniques into development projects
during the development review process and practice active surveillance measures in
high-risk areas such as parking lots.
(Implementation Program III-8; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Police Department, and Fire Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-4
Use public education activities to accomplish the following objectives:
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Raise public awareness of public safety issues including fire safety, flood
hazards, homeland security, and other programs.
Promote the application of CPTED to new development projects.
Support neighborhood meetings and community programs on crime
prevention and education.
Continue to support existing “Neighborhood Watch” programs, and support
the efforts of the City of Orange Police Department to expand these programs.
(Implementation Program IV-3; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Police Department, Fire Department, Library
Services Department, Community Services Department; Timeframe – Ongoing) Fire
Protection
5.12-5
Continue to evaluate and update information available to the City regarding potential
fire hazards and hazard areas. Provide public information on the City’s website, at
City Hall, and through other means as necessary regarding defensible space
surrounding residences and businesses. Use Wildland Fuel Modification guidelines
for controlling vegetation in undeveloped areas, and Wildland Urban Interface Code
and weed abatement standards.
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(Implementation Program I-27; Responsible Party – Fire Department; Timeframe –
Ongoing).
5.12-6
Adopt, review, implement, and update as necessary the following master plans,
standards, and guidelines: Public Library Facilities Master Plan.
(Implementation Program I-4; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Community Services Department, Police
Department, Fire Department, Library Services Department, Economic Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing).
5.12-7
Continue to implement the City’s Public Library Facilities Master Plan (2002-2020).
Continue to work to ensure that the California State Library-recommended standard
of four volumes and 0.7 square foot per capita is maintained and that the City’s
library services needs are met as future development occurs. Continue to promote
and provide additional resources for the Orange Public Library Local History
Collection. Maintain and enhance the Preservation Resource Center within the
Orange Public Library and Local History Center that provides access to information
about historic preservation regulations and benefits, technical assistance materials,
and information about research methods and collections.
(Implementation Program I-31; Responsible Party – Library Services Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing).
RECREATION
5.13-1
Work actively to acquire, build, and maintain approximately 122 acres of additional
parkland, in order to achieve a minimum parkland ratio of 3 acres per 1,000 persons
by 2030, working toward a desired ratio of 5 acres per 1,000 persons by 2050.
Evaluate progress toward achieving this goal by preparing a status report for the City
Council and community every 5 years. As a separate, but compatible objective,
support efforts by the County of Orange or private land owners to provide an
additional 303 acres of regional parkland to support an overall objective of 10 acres
of parkland per 1,000 persons, inclusive of County regional parks. Work with the
private sector to encourage use of vacant commercial or industrial properties for
recreational purposes.
(Implementation Program IV-2; Responsible Party – Community Services
Department; Timeframe – Baseline status report completed by 2012, ongoing 5-year
reporting beginning in 2015)
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5.13-2
Continue to implement and expand the use of joint-use agreements to increase the
parks and open space resources available to Orange residents. Specifically, seek to
expand joint-use agreements with OUSD and other local schools, SCE, and the
Orange County Flood Control District. Investigate conversion or joint-use of surplus
or otherwise underutilized lands, including railroad and public utility rights-of-way,
for open space use.
(Implementation Program I-26; Responsible Party – City Manager’s Office,
Community Services Department, Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.13-3
Continue to implement and update the City’s Capital Improvement Program to:
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Address phasing and construction and maintenance of roadway, infrastructure,
streetscape, signage, and City-owned park improvements throughout the City;
Acquire and expend funds from available transportation financing and other
programs to assist in financing new roadways and trails;
Manage construction of new parks and improvements to current parklands and
park facilities; and
Facilitate construction of a multi-use trails network that connects the City’s
parks and open spaces.
Use the 7-year Capital Improvement Program process to prioritize, finance, and
complete roadway, infrastructure, and parks projects identified in the Capital
Improvement Program. Update the Capital Improvement Program on an annual basis
to respond to changes in local priorities and available funding sources. Require future
Capital Improvement Program projects to include a public outreach component.
(Implementation Program II-1; Responsible Party – All Departments; Timeframe –
Ongoing, with annual updates in-cycle with City budget process)
5.13-4
Continue efforts to prepare and adopt a vision plan for Santiago Creek addressing
recreational trails, open space, and flood control. Support future development of
highly visible access points to the Santa Ana River, particularly at Lincoln Avenue,
Katella Avenue, and Chapman Avenue. Partner with the City of Anaheim, resource
agencies, and community organizations to complete a Vision Plan for the Santa Ana
River, similar to the Plan for Santiago Creek.
(Implementation Program IV-4; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Community Services Department, Public Works Department;
Timeframe – Santiago Creek Plan completed by 2011, Santa Ana River Plan
completed by 2020)
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TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC
5.14-1
The City shall implement the mitigation measures for deficient arterial segments
described in Table 5.14-10 (see General Plan PEIR Appendix E.
These
improvements will be added to the City’s Capital Improvement Program and
monitored, prioritized, and funded over time through the City’s annual budgeting
process. Funds may consist of City funds, grant funds, traffic impact fees, and fairshare contributions toward capacity impacts required under CEQA to mitigate project
impacts for specific projects. Timing for implementation will be determined by the
City’s Traffic Engineer based on monitoring of operational conditions and traffic
counts demonstrating the need for the improvements.
(Responsible Party – City Traffic Engineer; Timeframe – Annual CIP update and
implementation upon arterial segment degradation)
5.14-2
The City shall complete intersection capacity improvements and coordinate traffic
signals as necessary to improve traffic flow and implement the mitigation measures
for deficient intersections. Specific improvements are described in Table 5.14-11
(see General Plan PEIR Appendix E). These improvements will be added to the
City’s Capital Improvement Program and monitored, prioritized, and funded over
time through the City’s annual budgeting process. Funds may consist of City funds,
grant funds, traffic impact fees, and fair-share contributions toward capacity impacts
required under CEQA to mitigate project impacts for specific projects. Timing for
implementation will be determined by the City’s Traffic Engineer based on
monitoring of operational conditions and traffic counts demonstrating the need for the
improvements.
(Responsible Party – City Traffic Engineer; Timeframe – Annual CIP update and
implementation upon arterial segment degradation)
5.14-3
Require preparation of Traffic Impact Analyses for new discretionary development
projects. For projects that increase V/C by .01 or more on affected roadway segments
or intersections experiencing or that are projected to experience LOS E or F
conditions without the proposed project, Traffic Impacts Analyses must propose
binding mitigation strategies to be incorporated within the project. The City will
prepare and publish guidelines for the preparation of Traffic Impact Analyses.
(Implementation Program III-4; Responsible Party – Public Works; Timeframe –
Ongoing)
5.14-4
Require major employers to institute Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
plans (Chapter 10.83 of the City’s Municipal Code). Such plans establish incentives
to encourage employees to carpool, take public transportation, bicycle, or use some
means other than private automobiles to get to and from work.
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(Implementation Program III- 5; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.14-5
Participate in regional efforts to implement TDM requirements and support
implementation of the employer TDM provisions of the South Coast Air Quality
Management District (SCAQMD) Air Quality Management Plan by working with the
SCAQMD to identify employers within Orange most suitable for participation in the
TDM programs to achieve major reduction of VMT.
(Implementation Program IV-6; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.14-6
Work closely with OCTA to achieve the following:
-
-
Maintain consistency with the County MPAH;
Implement provisions of Measure M;
Implement the OCTA CMP;
Expand and improve the efficiency of bus service within the City;
Encourage the expansion of alternative local transportation options such as a
community circulator bus service between transit centers and major
commercial, employment, and residential areas; Improve paratransit or other
public transportation systems that enhance the mobility of Orange’s senior and
youth populations, and the disabled;
Encourage provision of attractive and appropriate transit amenities;
Support and implement the OCTA Commuter Bikeways Strategic Plan and
participate in future updates and revisions to the Plan; and
Reduce noise impacts of OCTA operations and facilities.
(Implementation Program V-5; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.14-7
Work closely and coordinate with Caltrans and TCA on all plans, activities, and
projects that may affect state roadway facilities or transportation corridors passing
through Orange. Additionally, work with these agencies to achieve the following:
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November 2013
Provide appropriate screening to control the visual impacts of transportation
facilities;
Provide landscaping within transportation facilities;
Implement the interchange at SR-55 and Meats Avenue;
Determine the feasibility of conversion or joint-use of surplus or otherwise
underutilized lands under Caltrans or TCA control for open space;
Plan for noise abatement along freeways and highways;
Install, maintain, and update freeway and highway rights-of way buffers and
soundwalls; and
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Provide adequate visual buffers such as berms or landscaping between
freeways and railways and adjacent land uses.
(Implementation Program V-6; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
UTILITIES
5.12-8
Adopt, review, implement, and update as necessary the following master plans,
standards, and guidelines: Water Master Plan Urban Water Management Plan
(Implementation Program I-4; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Community Services Department, Police
Department, Fire Department, Library Services Department, Economic Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-9
As part of the development application and review process, require studies as needed
to determine water infrastructure requirements for future development projects, and
require that any recommendations be incorporated into the design of projects.
Require the dedication of necessary right-of-way and construction of water
infrastructure improvements for development projects as needed. Developers shall
also be required to pay the cost of providing new and improved water services to
project sites. For projects that satisfy the criteria set forth in Sections 10910-10915 of
the California Water Code and Section 66473.7 of the Government Code, a water
supply assessment or water supply verification demonstrating available water
supplies exist to support development shall also be prepared.
(Implementation Program III-7; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department and Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-10
Coordinate with the Irvine Ranch Water District, Santiago County Water District,
Serrano Water District, MWDOC, MWD, Golden State Water Company, Orange
County Sanitation District, and East Orange County Water District to achieve the
following water supply, distribution, and conservation objectives:
-
Maintain groundwater recharge areas to protect water quality and ensure
continued recharge of local groundwater basins.
Reduce the amount of water used for landscaping and increase use of native
and drought-tolerant plants.
Encourage the production, distribution, and use of recycled and reclaimed
water for landscaping projects.
Maintain water quality objectives for urban runoff.
(Implementation Program V-8; Responsible Party – City Council, City Manager,
Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
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5.12-11
Adopt, review, implement, and update as necessary the following master plans,
standards, and guidelines: Sewer Master Plan.
(Implementation Program I-4; Responsible Party – Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Community Services Department, Police
Department, Fire Department, Library Services Department, Economic Development
Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-12
The City shall repair and improve all areas that were identified in the 2003 Sewer
Master Plan Update as having system deficiencies based on available resources and
will also continue to identify anticipated deficiencies in the system. The City shall
make improvements to areas with frequent blockages or “hot-spots.” Developers shall
also be required to pay the cost of providing new and improved wastewater services
to project sites.
(Responsible Party – Public Works Department; Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-15
Continue to contract for provision of solid waste and recycling services. Expand
community outreach and education regarding residential recycling opportunities and
household hazardous wastes by providing information on the City’s website, at City
Hall, and through other means as necessary.
(Implementation Program I-33; Responsible Party – Public Works Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
5.12-16
Continue to implement waste diversion programs as well as public education
programs as outlined in the City’s Source Reduction and Recycling Element required
by AB 939 (1989). Work to expand recycling pickup to all residential addresses in
the City. Conduct a waste characterization study to identify the major constituents in
the City’s solid waste stream. The results of the study will be used to guide
development of the recycling and outreach program, and possible revisions to waste
handler contracts. The City will also consider anticipated waste associated with the
land use types of future development.
(Implementation Program IV-5; Responsible Party – Public Works Department;
Timeframe – Ongoing)
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6.0
CONSULTANT RECOMMENDATION
Based on the information and environmental analysis contained in this Initial Study and
Environmental Checklist, RBF Consulting finds that the proposed 2014-2021 Housing Element
Project may have a significant effect on the environment, however, because all potentially
significant effects have been adequately analyzed in the earlier General Plan PEIR, and
avoided/mitigated pursuant to that earlier document, no further environmental analysis is
warranted at this time. We recommend the fifth category be selected for the City’s
determination; refer to Section 3.3, Lead Agency Determination.
November 19, 2013
Date
November 2013
Rita Garcia
Senior Project Manager
Planning and Environmental Services
RBF Consulting
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7.0
REFERENCES
The following references were utilized during preparation of this Initial Study. These documents
are available for review at the City of Orange, 300 E. Chapman Avenue, Orange, CA 92866.
City of Orange Website, Accessed August and October 2013.
City of Orange, Zoning Ordinance, Continuously Updated.
EDAW, Inc., City of Orange General Plan, March 2010.
EDAW, Inc., Final Program Environmental Impact Report City of Orange General Plan,
March 2010.
Michael Brandman Associates, East Orange General Plan Draft Environmental Impact
Report, August 1989.
RBF, City of Orange Housing Element 2013 - 2021, Draft, September 20, 2013.
State of California, Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for
Cities, Counties, and the State, 2011-2013, with 2010 Benchmark, Sacramento,
California, May 2013.
Southern California Association of Governments Website, Accessed August 2013.
Southern California Association of Governments Website, Adopted 2012 RTP Growth
Forecast, Accessed August 2013.
U.S. Census Bureau Website, Census 2000 and 2010 (American Factfinder), Accessed
August 2013.
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8.0
REPORT PREPARATION PERSONNEL
City of Orange (Lead Agency)
Department of Community Development
300 E. Chapman Avenue
Orange, CA 92866
Mr. Gregory Hastings, Interim Community Development Director
Ms. Jennifer McDonald Le, Senior Planner
RBF Consulting (Environmental Analysis)
14725 Alton Parkway
Irvine, California 92618
949.472.3505
Mr. Glenn Lajoie, AICP, Vice President, Planning
Ms. Rita Garcia, Senior Project Manager
Ms. Linda Bo, Word Processor/Graphic Artist
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