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HomeMy WebLinkAbout7530RESOLUTION NO. 7530 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA ADOPTING CEQA FINDINGS OF FACT, ADOPTING A MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM, AND CERTIFYING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR "THE DERBY MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT" WITH 214 RESIDENTIAL UNITS, INCLUDING 9 AFFORDABLE UNITS, LOCATED AT 233 & 301 E. HUNTINGTON DRIVE WHEREAS, on April 15, 2022, applications were filed with the City of Arcadia ("City") for General Plan Amendment No. GPA 22-01, Zone Change No. ZC 22-01, Minor Use Permit No. MUP 22-02, Architectural Design Review No. ADR 22-06, along with a Lot Line Adjustment (filed on August 11, 2022), to construct "The Derby Mixed -Use Development' a new mixed-use development at 233 & 301 East Huntington Drive. The project includes a density bonus and will result in a six -story mixed-use building containing 214 residential units, including 9 affordable units (collectively, the "Project"), and WHEREAS, a Final Environmental Impact Report ("EIR") has been prepared by the City for the Project. This Final EIR has been prepared in conformance with the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970 ("CEQA") statutes (Cal. Pub. Res. Code, Section 21000 et. seq., as amended) and implementing guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., Title 14, Section 15000 et. seq.); and WHEREAS, in accordance with the CEQA Guidelines, a Notice of Preparation ("NOP") was circulated for a 30 -day public review starting on October 14, 2022, to public agencies, organizations, and interested individuals; and WHEREAS, on October 26, 2022, an in-person scoping meeting was held. The purpose of this meeting was to seek input from public agencies and the general public 1 regarding the potential environmental impacts of the proposed Project. The City received no comments/questions with environmental concerns during the scoping meeting but eight (8) individuals requested to be placed on a mailing list for further information; and WHEREAS, a Draft EIR was made available for public review and comment pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15087. The 45 -day public review period for the Draft EIR started on August 4, 2023, and ended on September 19, 2023. At the beginning of the public review period, an electronic copy of the Draft EIR and an electronic copy of the Notice of Completion ("NOC") and Notice of Availability ("NOK) were submitted to the State Clearinghouse and Los Angeles Recorders Office. The 45 -day public review period provided interested public agencies, groups, and individuals the opportunity to comment on the contents of the Draft EIR. A total of three agency, organization, and individual comment letters were received and are included in Chapter 2, Responses to Comments, of this Final EIR; and WHEREAS, the Final EIR addresses the comments received during the public review period and includes minor changes to the text of the Draft EIR in accordance with comments; and WHEREAS, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15091, the City Council shall make findings for each of the significant effects identified in the EIR and shall support the findings with substantial evidence in the record. After considering the Final EIR in conjunction with making findings under Section 15091, the City may decide whether or how to approve or carry out the Project. When a lead agency approves a project that will result in the occurrence of significant effects that are identified in the Final EIR but are not avoided or substantially lessened, the agency is required by CEQA to state in writing the K specific reasons to support its action based on the Final EIR and/or other information in the record. Because the Project would not result in significant and unavoidable impacts, a "statement of overriding considerations" is not required to be prepared. The Final EIR identified potentially significant effects that could result from the Project but can be mitigated through mitigation measures; and WHEREAS, on November 28, 2023, a duly noticed public hearing was held before the Planning Commission on said applications, at which time all interested persons were given full opportunity to be heard and to present evidence; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the Final Environmental Impact Report (SCH #2022100298) consisting of the Draft EIR and responses to comments and errata have been prepared pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA; Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) and recommended with a 5-0 vote that the City Council adopt the CEQA findings of fact; the mitigation monitoring and reporting program; and certify the Final EIR for the Derby Mixed Use Development and approve the Project with conditions and mitigation measures; and WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the Final EIR prepared for the Project, the staff reports pertaining to the Final EIR, the Planning Commission hearing minutes and staff report, and all evidence and comments received by the Planning Commission; and WHEREAS, the Final EIR identified certain significant and potential significant adverse effects on the environment caused by the Project, but that the inclusion of certain mitigation measures as part of the approval of the Project will reduce all impacts to less - 3 than -significant levels; therefore a Statement of Overriding Considerations is not required, and WHEREAS, the City Council is required to adopt all feasible mitigation measures or feasible project alternatives that can substantially lessen or avoid any significant environmental effects. NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS: 1. Exhibit "A" (Findings of Fact) and Exhibit "B" (Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program) of this Resolution provide findings required under Section 15091 of the CEQA Guidelines for significant effects of the Project. The City Council hereby adopts these various findings of fact attached hereto as Exhibits "A" and "B". 2. Exhibit "A" of this Resolution provides the findings required under Section 15093 of the CEQA Guidelines that addresses the environmental effects associated with the proposed Derby Mixed -Use Development, as described in the Draft EIR. The Findings of Fact, attached hereto, examines the full range of potential effects of construction and operation of the Project and identifies mitigation measures that could be employed to reduce, minimize, or avoid any potential effects. 3. After considering the EIR and in conjunction with making these findings, the City Council hereby finds that pursuant to Section 15092 of the CEQA Guidelines that approval of the Project will result in less -than -significant effects on the environment. 4. The City Council has considered alternatives to the Project and finds based on substantial evidence in the record that the Project is the best alternative that can be feasibly implemented in light of relevant economic, legal, social, technological, or other 0 considerations make the Project infeasible. The City Council hereby rejects all other alternatives, thereof. 5. These findings made by the City Council are supported by substantial evidence in the record, which is summarized herein. 6. The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program attached hereto as Exhibit "B" ("MMRP") is hereby adopted to ensure implementation of feasible mitigation measures identified in the EIR. The City Council finds that these mitigation measures are fully enforceable conditions on the Project and shall be binding upon the City and affected parties. 7. The City Council finds that the Project is consistent with the General Plan and that approval of the Project is in the public interest and is necessary for public health, safety, and welfare. SECTION 3. For the foregoing reasons, the City Council hereby certifies the Final EIR in accordance with CEQA, for the Derby Mixed -Use Development approved under Resolution No. 7532 for the Derby Mixed -Use Development at 233 & 301 E. Huntington Drive, subject to the conditions of approval in Resolution No. 7532 and mitigation measures, attached hereto and under Resolution No. 7532. SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall certify as to the adoption of this Resolution. [SIGNATURES ON THE NEXT PAGE] yIS Passed, approved and adopted this 19th day of December, 2023. ATTEST: dla� City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: Michael J. Maurer City Attorney C: of the City of Arcadia STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) SS: CITY OF ARCADIA ) I, GENE GLASCO, City Clerk of the City of Arcadia, hereby certifies that the foregoing Resolution No. 7530 was passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Arcadia, signed by the Mayor and attested to by the City Clerk at a regular meeting of said Council held on the 19th day of December, 2023 and that said Resolution was adopted by the following vote, to wit: AYES: Cheng, Kwan, Wang, Cao, and Verlato NOES: None ABSENT: None 7 City Clerk of the City of Arcadia EXHIBIT "A FINDINGS OF FACT FINDINGS OF FACT The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR (SCH No. 2022100298) Prepared for: City of Arcadia 240 W. Huntington Drive Arcadia, California 91007 Contact: Lisa Flores, Planning and Community Development Administrator Prepared by. DUDEK 38 North Marengo Avenue Pasadena, California 91101 Contact: Kristin Starbird, Senior Project Manager OCTOBER 2023 Printed on 30% post -consumer recycled material. Table of Contents SECTION PAGE NO. 1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................. 1 1.1 Purpose...................................................................................................................................................1 1.1.1 Record of Proceedings.............................................................................................................2 1.1.2 Custodian and Location of Records.........................................................................................2 1.2 Project Summary ....................................................................................................................................3 1.2.1 Project Location........................................................................................................................3 1.1.3 Project Objectives.....................................................................................................................3 1.1.3 Project Description...................................................................................................................4 1.1.3 Discretionary Actions................................................................................................................4 2 CEQA FINDINGS OF INDEPENDENT JUDGEMENT........................................................................................ 6 2.1 Independent Review and Analysis.........................................................................................................6 2.2 Impacts Determined to Be Less Than Significant with Mitigation.......................................................6 2.2.1 Cultural Resources...................................................................................................................7 2.2.2 Geology and Soils.....................................................................................................................9 2.2.3 Hazards and Hazardous Materials....................................................................................... 11 2.2.4 Noise.......................................................................................................................................15 2.2.5 Transportation........................................................................................................................17 2.2.6 Tribal Cultural Resources......................................................................................................19 2.2.7 Utilities and Service Systems................................................................................................ 24 2.3 Impacts Determined to Be Less Than Significant............................................................................. 25 2.3.1 Aesthetics...............................................................................................................................26 2.4.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources...................................................................................... 26 2.4.3 Air Qua Iity...............................................................................................................................27 2.3.4 Biological Resources............................................................................................................. 30 2.4.5 Cultural Resources................................................................................................................ 32 2.3.6 Energy.....................................................................................................................................35 2.3.7 Geology and Soils.................................................................................................................. 38 2.3.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions..................................................................................................42 2.3.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials....................................................................................... 44 2.3.10 ......................................... Hydrology and Water Quality ................................................... ..... 46 2.3.11 ......................... Land Use and Planning........................................................................ ......... 50 2.3.12 Mineral Resources................................................................................................................. 52 2.3.13 Noise.......................................................................................................................................53 2.3.14 Population and Housing........................................................................................................ 55 2.3.15 Public Services and Recreation............................................................................................ 58 2.3.16 Transportation........................................................................................................................62 The Derby Mixed -Use Proiect 11663.05 October 2023 i FINDINGS OF FACT 2.3.17 Tribal Cultural Resources......................................................................................................64 2.3.18 Utilities and Service Systems................................................................................................ 65 2.3.19 Wildfire................................................................................................................................... 70 3 FINDINGS ON PROJECT ALTERNATIVES...................................................................................................... 71 3.1 Alternatives Carried Forward for Consideration................................................................................ 71 3.1.1 Alternative A- No Project/No Development......................................................................... 71 3.1.2 Alternative 13- Reduced Commercial.................................................................................... 73 3.1.2 Alternative C- Reduced Commercial (The Derby)/No H7 Special Height Overlay ............. 74 3.2.2 Environmentally Superior Alternative................................................................................... 75 4 GENERAL CEQA FINDINGS.......................................................................................................................... 77 4.1 Findings Regarding Recirculation....................................................................................................... 77 4.2 Legal Effects of Findings..................................................................................................................... 78 5 CONCLUSION............................................................................................................................................... 79 6 REFERENCES CITED.................................................................................................................................... 81 The Derby Mixed -Use Pro ect _ _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 ii 1 Introduction This statement of Findings of Fact (Findings) addresses the environmental effects associated with the proposed The Derby Mixed -Use Project (proposed Project), as described in the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR). These Findings are made pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (California Public Resources Code, Section 21000 et seq.), specifically California Public Resources Code, Sections 21081, 21081.5, and 21081.6, and the CEQA Guidelines (14 CCR 15000 et seq.), specifically Sections 15091 and 15093. The Draft EIR examines the full range of potential effects of construction and operation of the Project and identifies mitigation practices that could be employed to reduce, minimize, or avoid those potential effects. 1.1 Purpose California Public Resources Code, Section 21081, and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 require that the lead agency, in this case the City of Arcadia (City), prepare written findings for identified significant effects, accompanied by a brief explanation of the rationale for each finding. Specifically, CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 states, in part, that: a) No public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which an EIR has been certified which identifies one or more significant environmental effects of the project unless the public agency makes one or more written findings for each of those significant effects, accompanied by a brief explanation of the rationale for each finding. The possible findings are: 1) Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final EIR. 2) Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public agency and not the agency making the finding. Such changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency. 3) Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the final EIR. In accordance with California Public Resource Code, Section 21081, and CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, whenever significant effects cannot be mitigated to below a level of significance, the decision-making agency is required to balance, as applicable, the benefits of the project against its unavoidable environmental risks when determining whether to approve the project. If the benefits of a project outweigh the unavoidable adverse environmental effects, the adverse effects may be considered "acceptable." In that case, the decision-making agency may prepare and adopt a Statement of Overriding Considerations (SOC), pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines. The Project does not result in any impacts that cannot be mitigated to a level of less than significant; therefore, a Statement of Overriding Considerations is not required. The EIR identified potentially significant effects that could result from the Project. The City finds that the inclusion of certain mitigation measures as part of the approval of the Project will reduce all impacts to less - than -significant levels. As required by CEQA, the City, in adoptingthese Findings, also adopts a Mitigation Monitoringand Reporting Program (MMRP) for the Project. The City finds that the MMRP, which is incorporated by reference and made a part of these Findings, meets the requirements of California Public Resources Code, Section 21081.6, by providing for the implementation and monitoring of measures intended to mitigate potentially significant effects of the Project. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 1 FINDINGS OF FACT In accordance with the CEQA Statutes and Guidelines, the City adopts these Findings for the Project. Pursuant to California Public Resources Code, Section 21082.1(c)(3), the City also finds that these Findings reflect the City's independent judgment as the lead agency for the Project. 1.1.1 Record of Proceedings For the purposes of CEQA and the Findings herein set forth, the record of proceedings for the Project consists of those items listed in CEQA Section 21167.6(e). The record of proceedings for the City's decision on the Project consists of the following documents, at a minimum and without limitation, which are incorporated by reference and made part of the record supporting these Findings: a) The Notice of Preparation, Notice of Availability, and all other public notices issued by the City in conjunction with the Project b) The Draft EIR for the Project and all technical appendices and documents relied upon or incorporated by reference c) All written comments submitted by agencies, organizations, or members of the public during the public review comment period on the Draft EIR and the City's responses to those comments d) The Final EIR for the Project e) The MMRP for the Project f) All reports, studies, memoranda, maps, staff reports, or other planning documents relating to the Project prepared by the City or consultants to the City with respect to the City's compliance with the requirements of CEQA and with respect to the City's action on the Project g) All documents submitted to the City by other public agencies or members of the public in connection with the Draft EIR h) Any minutes and/or verbatim transcripts of all information sessions, public meetings, and public hearings held by the City in connection with the Project i) Any documentary or other evidence submitted to the City at such information sessions, public meetings, and public hearings j) All resolutions adopted by the City regarding the Project, and all staff reports, analyses, and summaries related to the adoption of those resolutions k) Matters of common knowledge to the City, including, but not limited to federal, state, and local laws and regulations 1) Any documents expressly cited in these Findings, in addition to those cited above; and any other materials required for the record of proceedings by CEQA Section 21167.6(e) 1.1.2 Custodian and Location of Records The documents and other materials that constitute the Record of Proceedings for the City's actions related to the Project are located atthe City of Arcadia, 240 W. Huntington Drive, California 91007. The City Clerk is the custodian of the Record of Proceedings for the Project. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 2 FINDINGS OF FACT 1.2 Project Summary 1.2.1 Project Location The Project site is located within an urban portion of the City within Los Angeles County, approximately 13 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The western portion of the Project site (APN 5773-009-070) is an approximately 1.34 -acre parcel which includes The Derby Restaurant at 233 E. Huntington Drive. The eastern portion of the Project site (APN 5773-009-065) is an approximately 0.89 -acre parcel which includes the closed Souplantation restaurant at 301 East Huntington Drive. Regional access to the Project site is provided by the eastbound/westbound Foothill Freeway (Interstate [I-] 210) tothe northeastof the Project site, with freewayaccess ramps via E. Huntington Drive located approximately 0.23 -mile from the Project site. The Project site is located approximately 0.32 -mile to the southeast of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) A Line (formerly L/Gold Line) Arcadia Station, which is located near the intersection of Santa Clara Street and First Avenue. North of the Project site are commercial uses (e.g., Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, and Residence Inn hotels) and associated surface parking lots along with ornamental landscaping. Land uses adjacent to and east of the Project site include various retail and restaurant uses and accompanying surface parking lots and landscaping. The neighboring City of Monrovia boundary is approximately 700 feet east of Gateway Drive (in alignment with Fifth Avenue). Immediately south of the Projectsite, across E. Huntington Drive, are various retail and restaurant spaces, associated surface parking lots, and landscaping. Further south is the Metro A Line railway as well as the Arcadia Unified School District office building, Bonita Park, and associated surface parking lots. To the southeast are multiple office buildings with surface parking lots and ornamental landscaping. The Metro A Line tracks, which run northwest/southeast in the vicinity of the Project site, are approximately 175 feet to the southwest of the Project site at their closest point. Immediately west of the Project is the Embassy Suites hotel and associated surface parking as well as ornamental landscaping. Other hotel buildings, restaurants, retail spaces, and offices are located west of North 2nd Avenue (Draft EIR, pp. ES -3 and ES -4). 1.1.3 Project Objectives CEQA Guidelines Section 15124 requires an EIR to include a statement of objectives sought by the Project. The objectives assist the City in developing a reasonable range of alternatives to be evaluated in the EIR. The Project objectives also aid decision makers in preparing Findings of Fact and a Statement of Overriding Considerations, if necessary. The statement of objectives also is to include the purpose of a project and may discuss a project's benefits. The Project's specific objectives are as follows (Draft EIR, p. ES -5): 1. To efficiently develop currently under-utilized property within a Transit Priority Area into a mixed-use, high- density, urban development that provides convenient access to alternative forms of transportation, including bicycling, bus lines and the Metro A Line light-rail station. 2. To provide new multifamily residential housing, including affordable housing, that helps meet the City's Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requirements. 3. To provide a compact, mixed-use development in Downtown Arcadia within an established Land Use Focus Area to further facilitate the City as a destination stop on the Metro A Line. 4. To encourage building design that creates a cohesive, vibrant look in Downtown Arcadia and that minimizes the appearance of expansive parking lots on major commercial corridors. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 3 FINDINGS OF FACT 5. To provide an adequate amount of on-site vehicle, bicycle, and electric vehicle stalls that satisfy the City's Municipal Code Parking Requirements 6. To provide employment opportunities through construction, maintenance and operation of new housing and commercial uses. 7. To support and modernize a locally important business in the neighborhood with a larger, more open floorplan and up-to-date facilities that meet current building codes. 1.1.3 Project Description The proposed Project would demolish the existing buildings and surface parking lots on the Project site and a lot line adjustment would merge the two existing lots into one legal lot. In addition to The Derby's new restaurant space, the Project would construct 205 market rate units and 9 affordable units (totaling 214 for -rent dwelling units), a 3,300 square foot restaurant space, and a 1,400 square foot cafe space. The proposed six -story mixed-use building would have an overall maximum height of 71 feet, including a 3 -foot parapet. The Project would also include one level of subterranean (i.e., basement level) parking for residents, as well as ground -level commercial and valet parking, including a podium parking structure and surface parking lots. In total, the Project would provide 412 vehicle parking spaces, as well as motorcycle spaces and bicycle parking. The Project would require a General Plan Amendment to the land use designation of "Downtown Mixed Use" and a zone change to the zoning designation of Downtown Mixed Use (DMU) with a H7 Height Overlay. The environmental impact assessments contained in Section 4.1 through Section 4.15 of this Draft EIR are focused on the environmental impacts associated with redevelopment of the Project site and off-site components required to implement the Project. The City's General Plan Downtown Mixed Use land -use designation allows for a maximum floor area ratio (FAR) for commercial uses of 1.0. The total commercial area of the Project consists of 17,550 square feet (consisting of The Derby restaurant, an adjacent restaurant, and cafe space). The Project site is 2.23 acres or approximately 97,139 square feet. Therefore, the Project's FAR would result in 0.18, which is consistent with the General Plan's maximum of 1.0 (Draft EIR, p. ES -4). 1.1.3 Discretionary Actions City of Arcadia The City of Arcadia, as lead agency for the Project, has the responsibility for reviewing, processing, and approving the proposed Project. If development is proposed that results in environmental impacts not assumed within this Draft EIR or covered under the impact analyses and mitigation measures set forth in this Draft EIR, or if substantial changes to the circumstances under which the Project is undertaken and/or new information of substantial importance becomes available after the certification of this Draft EIR, the City will evaluate the need for supplemental environmental documentation per Sections 15162 to 15164 of the State CEQA Guidelines. The following is a summary of discretionary actions the City of Arcadia will consider (Draft EIR, pp. 3-15 and 3-16): • General Plan Amendment to Downtown Mixed Use (GPA No. 22-01) • Zone Change to Downtown Mixed Use with Height Overlay (H7) (ZC No. 22-01) • Certificate of Demolition (COD No. 22-20) The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 4 FINDINGS OF FACT • Minor Use Permit (Mixed -Use Development; Valet Parking; Outdoor Dining in Excess of 12 Tables (MUP No. 22-02) • Lot Line Adjustment (LLA No. 22-02) • Site Plan and Design Review (Density Bonus) (ADR No. 22-06) Responsible Agencies A public agency, other than the lead agency, that has discretionary approval over a project is known as a "responsible agency," as defined by State CEQA Guidelines Section 15096. There are no other public agencies that have discretionary authority over the proposed Project. Other Permits and Approvals Other permits and approvals are required for Project implementation that are not subject to discretionary review, but nevertheless require actions by the applicant and/or the City to obtain the necessary approvals to implement the proposed Project. Other permits and approvals required, and their respective agency administrators, are listed below: • City of Arcadia c Reduction of required tandem parking spaces in conformance with State Density Bonus Law o Tree Permit o Grading Permit, Demolition, Building and other construction permits o Encroachment permit for work in the City's right-of-way • California Department of Transportation, District 7 o Oversized Vehicle Permit • California Water Resources Control Board o Coverage under National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit No. CAS000002, General Construction Activity Storm Water Permit and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 5 2 CEQA Findings of Independent Judgement 2.1 Independent Review and Analysis Under CEQA, the lead agency must (1) independently review and analyze the EIR; (2) circulate draft documents that reflect its independent judgment; (3) as part of the certification of an EIR, find that the report or declaration reflects the independent judgment of the lead agency; and (4) submit copies of the documents to the State Clearinghouse if there is state agency involvement or if the project is of statewide, regional, or area -wide significance (California Public Resources Code, Section 21082.1[c]). These Findings reflect the City's independent judgment. The City has exercised independent judgment in accordance with CEQA Section 21O82.1(c)(3) in retaining its own environmental consultant in the preparation of the EIR, as well as reviewing, analyzing, and revising material prepared by the consultant. Having received, reviewed, and considered the information in the Final EIR, as well as any and all other information in the record, the City hereby makes findings pursuant to and in accordance with CEQA Sections 21081, 21081.5, and 21081.6. 2.2 Impacts Determined to Be Less Than Significant with Mitigation This section identifies significant adverse impacts of the Project that require findings to be made under CEQA Section 21081(a) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15O91(a)(1). Based on substantial evidence, the City finds that adoption of the mitigation measures set forth in this section will reduce the identified significant impacts to less - than -significant levels: Cultural Resources • Archaeological Resources • Cumulative Effect Geology and Soils • Paleontological Resources • Cumulative Effect Hazards and Hazardous Materials • Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials/Release of Hazardous Materials and the Potential for Upset Conditions • Reasonably Foreseeable Upset and Accident Conditions Involving the Release of Hazardous Materials • Emergency Response Plan or Emergency Evacuation Plan The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 6 FINDINGS OF FACT • Cumulative Effect Noise • Temporary Increase in Ambient Noise Levels • Cumulative Effect Transportation • Hazards due to a Road Design Feature or Incompatible Uses • Short-term Inadequate Emergency Access Tribal Cultural Resources • California Public Resource Code, Section 5024.1 • Cumulative Effect Utilities and Service Systems • Require Construction of New or Expanded Wastewater Conveyance • Cumulative Effect Other impacts addressed for Aesthetics, Agriculture and Forestry Resources, Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Energy, 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 and Recreation, Transportation, Utilities and Service Systems, and Wildfire are addressed under Section 2.3, Impacts Determined to Be Less Than Significant. 2.2.1 Cultural Resources 2.2.1.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Cultural Resources Archaeological Resources No prehistoric or historic -era archaeological resources have been identified within the Project site as a result of background research, CHRIS database records search (completed January 13, 2022), or the archaeological pedestrian survey (completed August 2022). The potential to encounter unknown intact archaeological resources is considered low, but possible during ground disturbing activities within native soil (below 2 to 3 ft of existing grade). Due to the inability to observe native soils during the pedestrian survey and because no previous cultural investigation had occurred prior to placement of fill soils there could be the potential for archeological resources to be present in areas below 4ft in depth. In the event unanticipated archaeological resources are encountered during Project construction, impacts to these resources would be potentially significant. However, implementation of Mitigation Measure (MM-) CUL -1 would require an inadvertent discovery clause, written by an archaeologist, to be added to all construction plans associated with ground disturbing activities and preparation and implementation of a Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP); requires that a qualified archaeologist is retained and on-call to respond to any inadvertent discoveries during Project construction; and requires that all construction work occurring within 50 feet of any find shall immediately stop until a qualified archaeologist, meeting the Secretary of The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 7 FINDINGS OF FACT the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology, can evaluate the significance of the find. Thus, potentially significant impacts to archaeological resources would be reduced to less -than -significant levels with MM - CUL -1 incorporated (Draft EIR, pp. 4.3-21 and 4.3-22). Cumulative Effect For archaeological resources, cumulative projects may require extensive excavation in culturally sensitive areas, and thus, may result in adverse effects to known or previously unknown, inadvertently discovered archaeological resources. There is the potential for accidental discovery of other archaeological resources by the Project as well as by cumulative projects. Because all significant cultural resources are unique and non-renewable, all adverse effects or negative impacts contribute to a dwindling resource base. This is considered a significant cumulative impact. However, through implementation of MM -CUL -1 the project -level impact to archeological resources would be reduced to less than significant and no additional mitigation is required (Draft EIR, p. 4.3-23). 2.2.1.2 Mitigation Measures MM -CUL -1 Prior to commencement of construction activities, an inadvertent discovery clause, written by an archaeologist, shall be added to all construction plans associated with ground disturbing activities and the Project applicantshall retain a qualified archaeologist, meetingthe Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology, to prepare a Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP). The WEAP shall be submitted to the City of Arcadia Planning and Community Development Department (City) for review and approval. All construction personnel and monitors shall be presented the WEAP training prior to the start of construction activities. The WEAP shall be prepared to inform all personnel working on the Project about the archaeological sensitivity of the area, to provide specific details on the kinds of archaeological materials that may be identified during construction, to explain the importance of and legal basis for the protection of significant archaeological resources, and to outline the actions to be taken in the event of a discovery of cultural resources. Each worker shall also learn the proper procedures to follow in the event that cultural resources or human remains are uncovered during ground -disturbing activities. These procedures include work curtailment or redirection, and the immediate contact of the site supervisor and archaeological monitor. The WEAP shall require that a qualified archaeologist be retained and on-call to respond to and address any inadvertent discoveries identified during initial excavation in native soils, which underly the 2-4 feet below ground surface of artificial fill soils. As it pertains to archaeological monitoring, this definition excludes movement of sediments after they have been initially disturbed or displaced by project -related construction. If potential archaeological resources (i.e., sites, features, or artifacts) are exposed during construction activities for the Project, the City shall be notified and all construction work occurring within 50 feet of the find shall immediately stop until a qualified archaeologist can evaluate the significance of the find and determine whether or not additional study is warranted. The archaeologist shall be empowered to temporarily stop or redirect grading activities to allow removal of abundant or large artifacts. Depending upon the significance of the find under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (14 CCR 15064.5[fj; PRC, Section 21082), the archaeologist may simply record the find and allow work to continue. If the discovery proves significant under CEQA, additional work, such as preparation of an archaeological treatment plan and data recovery, may The Derby Mixed -Use Project 1_1663.05 October 2023 8 FINDINGS OF FACT be warranted. The archaeologist shall also be required to curate any discovered specimens in a repository with permanent retrievable storage and submit a written report to the City of Arcadia for review and approval prior to occupancy of the first building on the site. Once approved, the final report shall be filed with the South -Central Coastal Information Center (SCCIC). 2.2.1.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), feasible measures that can minimize significant adverse impacts were developed for the potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.2.1.1. This feasible measure, MM -CUL -1, is listed in Section 2.2.1.2. The City finds that this mitigation measure is feasible, as adopted, and will reduce the Project's potential impacts to cultural resources to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to CEQA Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the Project that will mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts on cultural resources. 2.2.1.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Cultural Resources Implementation of MM -CUL -1 would reduce potentially significant impacts to archaeological resources by addressing the inadvertent discovery of archeological resources. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to cultural resources after implementation of this mitigation measure. 2.2.2 Geology and Soils 2.2.2.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Geology and Soils Paleontological Resources No paleontological resources were identified within the Project site as a result of the paleontological records search and desktop geological review; however, numerous fossil localities from Pleistocene alluvial deposits have been documented nearby (see Draft EIR Appendix E-2). While the Project site has been disturbed by development over the years, intact paleontological resources may be present below the original layer of fill and Holocene alluvial deposits. The Project site has low paleontological sensitive that increases with depth, where Pleistocene deposits may occur. In the event that intact paleontological resources are present Project site at depth, ground -disturbing activities associated with construction of the Project have the potential to destroy a unique paleontological resource or site. Without mitigation, the potential damage to paleontological resources during construction would be a potentially significant impact. However, upon implementation of MM-GEO-1, construction impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-18). Cumulative Effect Most impacts to paleontological resources are site-specific and are therefore generally mitigated on a project -by - project basis. Cumulative projects would be required to assess impacts to paleontological resources. Additionally, as needed, projects would incorporate individual mitigation for site-specific geological units present on each individual project site. Furthermore, the Project does not propose construction (including grading/excavation) or design features that could directly or indirectly contribute to an increase in a cumulative impact to paleontological resources, as the mitigation measure provided in this analysis ensures any significant paleontological resources The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 9 FINDINGS OF FACT uncovered during Project excavations would be properly analyzed and salvaged by a qualified paleontologist. Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to paleontological resources would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, pp. 4.5-20 and 4.5-21). 2.2.2.2 Mitigation Measures MM-GEO-1 In the event that paleontological resources (e.g., fossils) are exposed during construction activities forthe Project, all construction work occurringwithin 50feet ofthefind shall immediatelystop until a Qualified Paleontologist meeting Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP 2010) standards can evaluate the significance of the find and determine whether or not additional study is warranted. If the discovery is clearly not significant, the paleontologist may document the find and allow work to continue. If significant paleontological resources are discovered during earthmoving activities, the qualified paleontologist shall prepare and submit a Paleontological Resources Recovery Plan (PRRP) to the City for review and approval. The recovery plan shall include, but is not limited to, sampling and fossil recovery procedures, museum curation for any scientifically significant specimen recovered, and a report of findings. Recommendations in the PRRP as approved by the City shall be implemented before construction activities can resume at the site where the significant paleontological resources were discovered. Any reports and plans resulting from implementation of this measure shall be submitted to City Planning Division and filed with the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. 2.2.2.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), a feasible measure that can minimize significant adverse impacts was developed for the potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.2.2.1. This feasible measure, MM-GEO-1, is listed in Section 2.2.2.2. The City finds thatthis mitigation measure is feasible, is adopted, and will reduce the Project's potential impacts to paleontological resources to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to CEQA Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project that mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts related to geology and soils. 2.2.2.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Geology and Soils Potential impacts to geology and soils would be less than significant. Incorporation of MM-GEO-1 would reduce construction -related impacts to paleontological resources to a less -than -significant level. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to geology and soils after implementation of these mitigation measures. The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 10 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.2.3 Hazards and Hazardous Materials 2.2.3.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Hazards and Hazardous Materials Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials/Release of Hazardous Materials and the Potential for Upset Conditions Short -Term Construction Impacts Given the age of the building located at 233 E. Huntington Drive (The Derby Restaurant), there is a possibility that asbestos -containing materials and lead based paint is present at the property. While unlikely given the date of construction, there is a possibility these materials are also present in the building located at 301 E. Huntington Drive (former Souplantation restaurant). Additionally, many commercial buildings contain small amounts of PCBs, mercury, and other universal wastes in such items as light fixtures and thermostats. Demolition of structures that contain asbestos or other hazardous materials/wastes could result in a hazard during transport and disposal of the construction debris, if not properly identified and managed. MM-HAZ-1 requires proper abatement of asbestos and lead-based paint and identification and abatement of other hazardous materials and universal wastes prior to demolition and construction activities. With implementation of MM-HAZ-1, impacts associated with the routine transport of asbestos, universal wastes, and hazardous materials for offsite disposal would be less -than -significant with mitigation incorporated (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-17). Reasonably Foreseeable Upset and Accident Conditions Short -Term Construction Impacts The proposed Project has the potential to expose the public and the environment to hazards associated with the removal, transport and disposal of hazardous materials including asbestos, lead-based paint (LBP), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) -containing items, and universal wastes present in the buildings scheduled for demolition. Management of hazardous materials and waste during pre -demolition abatement activities would be addressed by MM-HAZ-1. Construction activities would not be conducted in areas where hazardous materials are stored, and potential impacts associated with hazardous materials would be addressed under MM-HAZ-1, therefore impacts would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. A gasoline station was previously located in the eastern portion of the Project site between approximately 1938 and 1964. Prior to the development of the Souplantation restaurant in 1988, soil sampling was conducted in the area where the former gas station was located (Converse 1988). Soil samples were analyzed for petroleum hydrocarbons, benzene, toluene, xylenes, and oil and grease. None of the samples were found to exceed laboratory reporting limits (Converse 1988). One sample contained 1,461 mg/kg of total petroleum hydrocarbons and no TPH was detected that exceeded the laboratory reporting limit. No further analysis was recommended in the Phase I ESA (see Appendix F-2 of the Draft EIR) (Converse 1988). The Phase II ESA conducted for the Project site included taking more soil samples and sub -slab vaporsamples. The samples were analyzed for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). The analysis concluded that no VOCs or TPH were present in any of the soil or sub -slab vapor samples (Appendix F-3 of the Draft EIR). The lack of sub -slab vapor detections, along with the lack of soil detections at depth, indicates that there likely is not widespread contamination at the site; however, it is still possible that some contamination and/or additional USTs exist on the property. As a result, MM-HAZ-2 would be implemented, which includes a soil management plan The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 11 FINDINGS OF FACT (SMP) be prepared to properly handle, transport, and dispose of contaminated soils removed from the Project site. With adherence to federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and implementation of MM-HAZ-1 and MM-HAZ- 2, short-term construction impacts associated with potential upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials to the environment would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated (Draft EIR, pp. 4.7-18 and 4.7-19). LongTerm Operational Impacts According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LACDPW) the Project site is not located within 300 feet of an oil or gas well or 1,000 feet of a methane -producing site; therefore, impacts due to proximity are not anticipated (LADPW 2022). Additionally, the on-site soil and soil vapor sampling has indicated that it is unlikely that widespread contamination of hazardous materials has occurred on the Project site. The implementation of MM- HAZ-1 and MM-HAZ 2 however, would ensure that the post -construction level of hazardous materials would be decreased to a less -than -significant level (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-19). Emergency Response Plan or Emergency Evacuation Plan Short -Term Construction Impacts Construction of the Project would occur primarily within the confines of the Project site; however, temporary construction activities would be required in the adjacent roadway rights-of-way for the removal and/or reconfiguration of raised medians on Gateway Drive and E. Huntington Drive, removal of a City -maintained landscaped area protruding onto E. Huntington Drive, removal and reconfiguration of curb cuts, and required utility connections. In accordance with MM -TRA -3 (discussed in Section 2.2.5, Transportation, of these Findings) the Project applicant or the contractor shall develop and implement a City -approved Construction Traffic Control Plan to ensure that appropriate detours and protocols are put in place during construction in order to maintain the safe pedestrian and traffic flow, including in the event of an emergency evacuation or other emergency response situation. Additionally, in accordance with Section 3303.1 of the California Fire Code (CFC), the Project applicant or the contractor would be required to develop and implement a Site Safety Plan which would establish a fire prevention program at the Project site that would be implemented throughout all phases of construction, repair, alternation, or demolition work. The Site Safety Plan shall be submitted to the Arcadia Fire Department prior to the issuance of a grading permit and shall include the designation of a site safety director, procedures for reporting emergencies, fire department vehicle access routes, locations of fire protection equipment, smoking and cooking policies, location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment, plansforcontrol of combustible waste material, and provisions of site security. Thus, with implementation of MM -TRA 3 and compliance with Section 3303.1 of the CFC, the short-term construction impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR 4.7-20). Cumulative Effects Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials/Release of Hazardous Materials and the Potential for Upset Conditions With implementation of MM-HAZ-1, impacts associated with the routine transport of asbestos, universal wastes, and hazardous materials for offsite disposal during construction would be less than significant with mitigation incorporated. Through the required CEQA review process, if it is determined that existing regulations are insufficient to reduce other cumulative project impacts to less than significant levels, than the City would require implementation of similar mitigation measures on a project -by -project basis. Therefore, through compliance with The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 12 FINDINGS OF FACT applicable regulations and required CEQA review, which would ensure implementation of any required mitigation, impacts related to the Project in combination with cumulative projects would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-22). Reasonably Foreseeable Upset and Accident Conditions The Project site has the possibility of soil contamination and/or additional USTs exist on the property. As a result, the Project incorporates MM-HAZ-2, which requires a SMP to be prepared to properly handle, transport, and dispose of contaminated soils from the Project site. The SMP required by MM-HAZ-2 would also include health and safety procedures, including breathing zone monitoring, to prevent possible exposure of onsite workers to elevated concentrations of hazardous materials. Implementation of MM-HAZ-1 and MM-HAZ-2 would ensure that Project - related activities would not result in significant impacts. Similar to the proposed Project, cumulative projects would be required to comply with local, state, and federal laws that govern the removal of such substances and the proper treatment of contaminated soils. Compliance with these laws would prevent the release of hazardous building materials resulting from construction activities on the sites of cumulative projects in the immediate vicinity and prevent releases of hazardous materials from soils on the Project site or cumulative project sites into the environment. As with the Project, cumulative projects would be subject to CEQA, whereby any potential impacts related to hazards created by upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment would be identified and mitigated, as appropriate. As such by adhering to existing requirements and regulations, and with implementation of required mitigation, cumulative impacts would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-23). Emergency Response Plan or Emergency Evacuation Plan The cumulative projects are in the vicinity of E. Huntington Drive and Interstate -210, which are designated disaster evacuation routes. Although construction of cumulative projects would occur primarily within the project sites, temporary construction activities may be required in the roadway right-of-way along E. Huntington Drive for cumulative projects A6, A2, M1, M2, and M3 which has the potential to interfere with traffic flow and emergency response. However, as with Project, the cumulative projects in the City and neighboring City of Monrovia would be subject to CEQA review. Through CEQA, any potential construction related impacts with the potential to impair or interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan would be identified and mitigated at the project level, as appropriate. Additionally, cumulative projects along E. Huntington Drive are a substantial enough distance away from one another so as not to cause a bottleneck on a specific block or segment of E. Huntington Drive. As with the City, the City of Monrovia has adopted the CFC as their municipal fire code. Thus, all cumulative projects would be subjectto CFC provisions pertainingto emergency access and preparedness, which would help support emergency responders and emergency response activities in the event of a natural disaster or other largescale event requiring implementation of an emergency response or evacuation plan, such as the OAERP or EMP. For cumulative projects in the City, the General Plan Safety Element contains policies which require police and fire department personnel to be involved in the development review process and require new developments to pay for costs associated with increased public safety needs. Thus, with compliance with applicable CFC standards, City General Plan policies, and implementation of MM -TRA -3, the Project's impacts, in combination with cumulative projects, would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-24). 2.2.3.2 Mitigation Measures MM-HAZ-1 Hazardous Building Materials Survey. Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit for any existing on-site structures, a qualified environmental specialist shall conduct a survey for asbestos - The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 13 FINDINGS OF FACT containing materials, lead-based paint, polychlorinated biphenyls, mercury, and other hazardous building materials, such as universal wastes and refrigerants, to document the presence of any potentially hazardous materials within the structures. If survey results are positive, all potentially hazardous materials identified as part of this survey shall be handled and disposed in accordance with the federal and state hazardous waste and universal waste regulations. Demolition plans and contract specifications shall incorporate any necessary abatement measures in compliance with the findings of the hazardous building materials survey and federal, state, and local regulations, including those of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (which regulates disposal), Occupational Safety and Health Administration, California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (which regulates employee exposure), the South Coast Air Quality Management District, and the Metallic Discards Act of 1991 (Public Resources Code, Section 42160 et seq.), particularly Public Resources Code, Section 42175, Materials Requiring Special Handling, for the removal of mercury switches, PCB -containing ballasts, and refrigerants. Upon completion of construction activities, proof of proper handling and disposal shall be provided to the City's Public Works Department. MM-HAZ-2 Contaminated Soil Management. Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the Project applicant/developer shall retain a qualified environmental professional to prepare a soil management plan (SMP) that outlines the proper screening, handling, characterization, transportation, and disposal procedures for contaminated soils on site based on the findings of the site-specific conditions, geophysical surveys, and Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments, and shall identify any areas of known or suspected soil contamination. The SMP shall be provided to the City's Development Services Department for review prior to any site grading. The Project's contractor shall ensure implementation of the SMP through the contract specifications for all confirmed and suspected contaminated soils which require excavation and offsite disposal. The SMP shall include health and safety and training procedures for construction workers who may come into contact with contaminated soils. The health and safety procedures shall include periodic breathing zone monitoring for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using a handheld organic vapor analyzer and include required actions to be taken if concentrations of VOCs exceed applicable screening levels for health and safety of onsite workers and the public. The SMP shall also include instructions for the identification of potentially -impacted soils, procedures for temporary cessation of construction activity and evaluation of the level of environmental concern if potentially -impacted soils or underground storage tanks are encountered, procedures for characterizing and managing potentially -impacted soils, and follow-up procedures such as disposal and reporting, as necessary. Contaminated soil shall be managed and disposed of in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Upon completion of construction activities, proof of compliance with the SMP shall be provided to the City's Development Services Department. MM -TRA -3 See Section 2.2.5, Transportation, of these Findings. 2.2.3.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), feasible measures that can minimize significant adverse impacts were developed for the potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.3.3.1. These feasible measures, MM-HAZ-1, MM-HAZ-2, and MM -TRA -3 are listed in Section 2.2.3.2. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 14 FINDINGS OF FACT The City finds that these mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the Project's potential impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to CEQA Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the Project that will mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials. 2.2.3.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Hazards and Hazardous Materials Implementation of MM-HAZ-1, MM-HAZ-2, and MM -TRA -3 would reduce potentially significant impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to hazards and hazardous materials after implementation of this mitigation measure. 2.2.4 Noise 2.2.4.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Noise Temporary or Permanent Increase in Ambient Noise Levels Construction Construction noise is considered a short-term impact and would be considered significant if construction activities occur outside the City's allowable hours of operation (see Conditions of Approval under Section 4.10.2.3 of the Draft EIR). At the nearest noise sensitive receptor location (the Hampton Inn hotel pool), construction noise would reach up to 89 dBA Leq, which is below Cal/OSHA's PEL (90 dBA) but greater than the AL limit (85 dBA) and thus trigger a potential impact. Therefore, mitigation measure MM-NOI-1 is included to reduce construction noise exposure levels below the action level when construction activities are allowed to occur during specified time periods. Outside of these hours, and as emphasized by the City's Conditions of Approval, Sections 4261-4263 of the Arcadia Municipal Code (AMC) prohibits construction activity during these hours: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on any weekday, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. on any Saturday, and any time on Sunday or holidays. Therefore, with MM-NOI-1 applied to the Project, construction noise would be considered less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-18 and 4.10- 19). Cumulative Effects Noise in Excess of Standards Implementation of the Project as well as unrelated development projects within its vicinity would all be individually subject to applicable noise standards. On this basis, and because noise impacts of the Project with respect to relevant standards would be less than significant with mitigation, the Project would not contribute to cumulative exceedances of noise standards, and its incremental effect would be a less -than -significant impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-22). The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ _ _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 15 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.2.4.2 Mitigation Measures MM -N01-1 Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit, the Project applicant/developer shall ensure that the following measures are included in the construction contractor's contract specifications and that the following measures are implemented and monitored for compliance throughout construction: ■ All construction equipment must have supplier -approved sound muffling devices (e.g., engine air intake or exhaust treatment) installed and used in compliance with relevant industry standards and Cal/OSHA regulations pertaining to construction noise, which shall be properly maintained and used at all times such equipment is in operation. ■ The construction contractor shall place stationary construction equipment so that emitted noise is directed away from sensitive receptors nearest the Project site, including the hotels located adjacent to the northern and northwestern boundaries of the Project site. ■ The construction contractor shall locate on-site equipment staging areas so as to maximize the distance between construction -related noise sources and noise -sensitive receptors nearest the Project site during the construction period. ■ All noise producing construction activities, including warming -up or servicing equipment and any preparation for construction, shall be limited to the hours between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. ■ An eight (8) foot tall temporary noise barrier shall be erected or installed along an extent of the northern Project site property line where it is adjacent to the nearest noise -sensitive receptor. The barrier can comprise one or more materials of construction and/or assembly, so long as the net sound transmission class (STC) is 15 or better, and thus expected to yield a minimum of 5 dB noise reduction when blocking direct sound paths between onsite Project construction noise -producing activities or equipment and the offsite receptor of concern. The horizontal extent of the installed barrier should be compatible with Caltrans or other industry guidance with respect to minimizing flanking effects around the ends of the barrier, based on both the offsite receptor position and the onsite position or zone of construction activity. 2.2.4.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), a feasible measure that can minimize significant adverse impacts was developed for the potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.2.4.1. This feasible measure, MM -N01-1, is listed in Section 2.2.4.2. The Cityfinds thatthis mitigation measure is feasible, is adopted, and will reducethe potential noise -related impacts of the Project to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to CEQA Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the Project that will mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts related to noise. 2.2.4.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Noise With incorporation of MM -N01-1, potential significant impacts related to construction noise would be reduced to less than significant. All other potential environmental impacts to noise would be less than significant. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to noise after implementation of this mitigation measure. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 16 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.2.5 Transportation 2.2.5.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Transportation Hazards due to a Road Design Feature or Incompatible Uses On and Off -Site Queuing Analysis A queuing analysis was prepared for all Project driveways to assess the adequacy of any off-site storage lanes into the Project site, as well as the adequacy of driveway throat lengths and space on-site for vehicles to queue without effecting the internal circulation on the Project site. None of the calculated 95th percentile (design) queues exceed storage capacities within the existing left -turn pockets on Gateway Drive or the two -way -left -turn lane (TWLTL) along E. Huntington Drive, with exception of the eastbound left -turn pocket at the Gateway Drive/E. Huntington Drive intersection. Analysis of existing conditions shows that queuing extends past the approximately 35 feet left -turn pocket (see Appendix J of the Draft EIR). As this pocket length is limited under current conditions, further exceedance of the available storage capacity is expected with the addition of Project trips. Therefore, impacts related to roadway design would be significant prior to mitigation. Therefore, to ensure that adequate stacking distance is available, Mitigation Measure (MM) TRA -1 is required and includes removing and reconfiguring the raised median on E. Huntington Drive to extend the eastbound left -turn pocket onto Gateway Drive to be at least 75 feet in length. It is anticipated that implementation of MM -TRA -1 would likely require the elimination of the median in its entirety; however, design plans must be prepared and submitted to the City and implemented to the satisfaction of the City's Public Works Director. Additionally, queuing is forecast to extend up to 255 feet (approximately 10 vehicles) within the courtyard for vehicles exiting out to E. Huntington Drive under Horizon Year (2040) plus Project conditions. Approximately 125 feet (or five (5) vehicles) could queue within the courtyard to exit the site before queued vehicles begin to impact other on-site operations. However, it should be noted that this driveway is primarily set up as a valet entrance and exit for The Derby restaurant, and other users would likely use the parking garage entrance along Gateway Drive (Driveway B) if they observe queuing within the courtyard. To limit driver confusion, MM -TRA -2 is required, which would mandate the preparation of a Parking Signage Plan that requires appropriate signage for residents and commercial visitors. The Plan must include signage within the commercial section of the parking structure directing personal vehicles to use the Gateway Drive egress to exit the Project site in order to eliminate potential conflicts with valet operations. Implementation of MM -TRA -1 and MM -TRA -2 would reduce potential impacts related to queuing to less than significant. Aside from the above-mentioned queues, none of the other queues are forecast to conflict with turning movements into or out of the Project site, or within the internal access drive aisles, with Project -added traffic during the Opening Year (2025) and Horizon Year (2040) conditions (Draft EIR, pp. 4.13-12 through 4.13-14). Inadequate Emergency Access. Construction Short-term adverse traffic and parking impacts could occur in the Project vicinity during construction of the Project. Additional trips generated by the truck deliveries and construction employees could affect traffic flow in the study area; construction activity could impact traffic near the Project site; and pedestrian traffic flow near the Project site The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 17 FINDINGS OF FACT could also be altered as a result of construction. To ensure adequate safeguards for pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access during short-term construction activities, MM- TRA -3 requires preparation of a Construction Traffic Control Plan to address pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular circulation during construction activities. Implementation of MM -TRA -3 would reduce potential impacts related to emergency access to less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-14). Cumulative Effect Hazards due to a Road Design Feature or Incompatible Uses As discussed above, the Project's reconfiguration of the existing site access would not result in hazardous conditions into or out of the Project site, with the exception of the eastbound left -turn pocket at the Gateway Drive/E. Huntington Drive intersection. Therefore, to ensure that adequate stacking distance is available, MM -TRA -1 is required and includes removing and reconfiguring the raised median on E. Huntington Drive to extend the eastbound left -turn pocketto at least 75 feet. Extendingthe left turn pocket would accommodate the Opening Year (2025) Plus Project and Horizon Year (2040) Plus Project conditions, which accounts for cumulative traffic in the study area. Additionally, queuing is forecast to extend up to 193 feet (approximately 8 vehicles) within the courtyard for vehicles exiting out to E. Huntington Drive under Horizon Year (2040) plus Project conditions. To limit driver confusion, MM -TRA -2 is required and includes installing signage within the commercial section of the parking structure directing personal vehicles to use the Gateway Drive egress to exit the Project site during valet operations. With implementation of MM -TRA -1 and MM -TRA -2, the Project would not result in adverse circulation conditions and would be less than significant. The Project would not contribute to cumulative impacts with respect to hazardous design features. Inadequate Emergency Access Impacts related to inadequate emergency access would be identical to the impacts described in the Project -specific impacts section; therefore, they are not repeated in the cumulative impact's evaluation. MM -TRA -3 requires preparation of a Construction Traffic Control Plan to address pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular circulation during construction activities, which would address any potential cumulative impacts related to traffic along E. Huntington Drive. Implementation of MM -TRA -3 would reduce potential impacts related to emergency access to less than significant and the Project would not make a cumulatively considerable contribution to inadequate emergency access. 2.2.5.2 Mitigation Measures MM -TRA -IL Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the Project applicant/developer shall coordinate with the City Engineer to prepare engineering plans that remove and reconfigure the raised median on E. Huntington Drive to extend the eastbound left -turn pocket to at least 75 feet. Plans shall be prepared and implemented to the satisfaction of the City's Public Works Director. The reconfigured median on E. Huntington Drive shall be completed and operational prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for The Derby restaurant. MM -TRA -2 Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the Project applicant/developer shall prepare a Parking Signage Plan to clearly identify ingress/egress and circulation for residents and commercial visitors. The Parking Signage Plan shall require that adequate signage be installed within the commercial section of the parking structure directing personal vehicles to use the Gateway Drive The Derbv Mixed -Use Proiect 11663.05 October 2023 18 FINDINGS OF FACT egress to exit the Project site, and to prohibit egress through the courtyard to E. Huntington Drive, in order to avoid conflicts with valet operations. MM -TRA -3 Prior to the issuance of demolition or grading permits, the Project applicant/developer shall have a qualified transportation professional prepare a Construction Traffic Control Plan, which shall be submitted to the City for review and approval. The Plan shall be prepared in accordance with applicable City guidelines and shall address the potential for construction -related vehicular traffic, as well as pedestrian and bicycle circulation disruption in the public right-of-way. The Plan shall describe safe detours and shall include protocols for implementing the following: temporary traffic controls (e.g., a flag person during heavy truck traffic for soil export) to maintain safe pedestrian and trafficflow; dedicated on-site turn lanes for construction trucks and equipment leavingthe site; scheduling of peak construction truck traffic that affects traffic flow on the arterial system to off- peak hours; consolidation of truck deliveries; and/or rerouting of construction trucks away from congested streets or sensitive receptors. 2.2.5.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), a feasible measure that can minimize significant adverse impacts was developed forthe potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.2.5.1. Thesefeasible measures MM -TRA -1, MM -TRA -2, and MM -TRA -3 are listed in Section 2.2.5.2. The City finds that this mitigation measure is feasible, is adopted, and will reduce the potential transportation - related impacts of the Project to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to CEQA Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the Project that will mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts related to transportation. 2.2.5.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Transportation With incorporation of MM -TRA -1, MM -TRA -2, and MM -TRA -3, potential significant impacts related transportation would be reduced to less than significant. All other potential environmental impacts to transportation would be less than significant. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to transportation after implementation of this mitigation measure. 2.2.6 Tribal Cultural Resources 2.2.6.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources Register of Historical Resources and Public Resource Code Section 5024.1 Assembly Bill (AB 52) requires lead agencies to provide tribes who have requested notification with early notice of the proposed Project and, if requested, consultation to inform the CEQA process with respect to tribal cultural resources (TCRs). Two Native American tribes (the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation [Kizh Nation) and the Gabrielino Tongva Tribe) requested to be notified of AB -52 -eligible projects under the City's jurisdiction. Consultation with the Kizh Nation occurred on January 31, 2023 and has been concluded. The Derby Mixed -Use Project October 2023 11663.05 19 FINDINGS OF FACT Visual observation of the current conditions within the proposed Project site indicate that all areas have been disturbed as a result of urban development. Neitherthe California Historical Resources Information System (CHRIS) records search nor the pedestrian survey was able to identify any archaeological resources within the Project site. However, the Kizh Nation provided tribal archival documentation to the City that demonstrates the cultural sensitivity of the area to the Tribe. Consultation under Senate Bill (SB) 18 did not identify any specific, known TCRs within the Project site. Project construction would involve some disturbance to native soils whether intact or previously disturbed. Because the proposed Project would involve excavations to a depth of up to 14 feet below ground surface and drilling up to a depth of 45 feet below ground surface, and due to the cultural sensitivity of the area, as determined through consultation with the Kizh Nation, it is determined that there is potential for a previously undiscovered resource to be encountered during excavation, particularly within native soils. If resources wereto be uncovered but not properly treated, they could be destroyed or damaged, resulting in a potentially significant impact. Mitigation measure (MM) MM -CUL -1 has been provided to ensure that potential impacts related to inadvertent discovery of archaeological resources would be less than significant. In the event of a discovery of human remains on the Project site during construction activities, the most likely descendent (MLD) would be assigned by the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) through the mandated process under Public Resources Code (PRC) section 5097.98 and other regulatory conditions. In consideration of the information provided by the Kizh Nation during tribal consultation, additional mitigation measures have been incorporated to ensure anticipatory measures are taken in the event that unknown TCRs are inadvertently encountered during Project construction -related earthwork activities. These mitigation measures are outlined in MM -TCR -1 through MM -TCR -3 intended to be implemented in concert with MM - CUL -1. Therefore, with implementation of MM -TCR -1 through MM -TCR -3, the impact regarding a potential substantial adverse change in the significance of a TCR would be less than significant with mitigation. Cumulative Effects Register of Historical Resources and Public Resource Code Section 5024.1 Although there are no knows TCRs on the Project site, the potential to encounter TCRs during construction activities is still possible. For archaeological resources of Native American origin, past, present, and reasonably foreseeable cumulative projects may require extensive excavation in culturally sensitive areas and, thus, may result in adverse effects to known or previously unknown, inadvertently discovered archaeological resources of Native American origin. Because all TCRs are unique and nonrenewable resources, projects that cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a TCR have the potential to erode a general tribal cultural landscape to which the resources belong. Therefore, if an impact to an unknown TCR occurs due to implementation of the Project, a cumulative significant effect on TCRs could result when combined with other cumulative development in the area. Any inadvertent discoveries associated with the Project would be protected to the extent required by law and as outlined in MM -CUL -1 and MM -TCR -1 through MM -TCR -3. Upon implementation of these measures, the Project would not have a significant impact on any resources that may be inadvertently discovered during construction. The cumulative projects that would occur in accordance with the City's General Plan growth and buildout, as applicable, are all subject to PRC 21083.2 and other the regulatory requirements that mandate evaluation and consideration of potential impacts to TCRs prior to approval of any discretionary permit for site development. Other individual projects occurring in the vicinity of the Project site would also be subject to the same requirements of CEQA as the proposed Project and any impacts to cultural or tribal cultural resources would be mitigated, as applicable. For these reasons, cumulative impacts would be considered less than significant with mitigation. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 20 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.2.6.2 Mitigation Measures MM -TCR -1 Retain a Native American Monitor Prior to Commencement of Ground -Disturbing Activities. A. The project applicant/lead agency shall retain a Native American Monitor from or approved by the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation. The monitor shall be retained prior to the commencement of any "ground -disturbing activity" for the subject project at all project locations (i.e., both on-site and any off-site locations that are included in the project description/definition and/or required in connection with the project, such as public improvement work). "Ground -disturbing activity" shall include, but is not limited to, demolition, pavement removal, potholing, auguring, grubbing, tree removal, boring, grading, excavation, drilling, and trenching. B. A copy of the executed monitoring agreement shall be submitted to the lead agency prior to the earlier of the commencement of any ground -disturbing activity, or the issuance of any permit necessary to commence a ground -disturbing activity. C. The monitorwill complete daily monitoring logs that will provide descriptions of the relevant ground -disturbing activities, the type of construction activities performed, locations of ground -disturbing activities, soil types, cultural -related materials, and any other facts, conditions, materials, or discoveries of significance to the Tribe. Monitor logs will identify and describe any discovered TCRs, including but not limited to, Native American cultural and historical artifacts, remains, places of significance, etc., (collectively, tribal cultural resources, or "TCR"), as well as any discovered Native American (ancestral) human remains and burial goods. Copies of monitor logs will be provided to the project applicant/lead agency upon written request to the Tribe. D. On-site tribal monitoring shall conclude upon the latter of the following (1) written confirmation to the Kizh from a designated point of contact for the project applicant/lead agency that all ground -disturbing activities and phases that may involve ground -disturbing activities on the project site or in connection with the project are complete; or (2) a determination and written notification bythe Kizh to the project applicant/lead agencythat no future, planned construction activity and/or develop ment/construction phase at the project site possesses the potential to impact Kizh TCRs. E. Upon discovery of any TCRs, all construction activities in the immediate vicinity of the discovery shall cease (i.e., not less than the surrounding 50 feet) and shall not resume until the discovered TCR has been fully assessed by the Kizh monitor and/or Kizh archaeologist. The Kizh will recover and retain all discovered TCRs in the form and/or manner the Tribe deems appropriate, in the Tribe's sole discretion, and for any purpose the Tribe deems appropriate, including for educational, cultural and/or historic purposes. MM -TCR -2 Unanticipated Discovery of Human Remains and Associated Funerary Object. A. Native American human remains are defined in PRC 5097.98 (d)(1) as an inhumation or cremation, and in any state of decomposition or skeletal completeness. Funerary objects, called associated grave goods in Public Resources Code Section 5097.98, are also to be treated according to this statute. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 21 FINDINGS OF FACT B. If Native American human remains and/or grave goods discovered or recognized on the project site, then all construction activities shall immediately cease. Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 dictates that any discoveries of human skeletal material shall be immediately reported to the County Coroner and all ground -disturbing activities shall immediately halt and shall remain halted until the coroner has determined the nature of the remains. If the coroner recognizes the human remains to be those of a Native American or has reason to believe they are Native American, he or she shall contact, by telephone within 24 hours, the Native American Heritage Commission, and Public Resources Code Section 5097.98 shall be followed. C. Human remains and grave/burial goods shall be treated alike per California Public Resources Code section 5097.98(d)(1) and (2). D. Construction activities may resume in other parts of the project site at a minimum of 200 feet away from discovered human remains and/or burial goods, if the Kizh determines in its sole discretion that resuming construction activities at that distance is acceptable and provides the project manager express consent of that determination (along with any other mitigation measures the Kizh monitor and/or archaeologist deems necessary). (CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5(f).) E. Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is the preferred manner of treatment for discovered human remains and/or burial goods. Any historic archaeological material that is not Native American in origin (non -TCR) shall be curated at a public, non-profit institution with a research interest in the materials, such as the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County or the Fowler Museum, if such an institution agrees to accept the material. If no institution accepts the archaeological material, it shall be offered to a local school or historical society in the area for educational purposes. F. Any discovery of human remains/burial goods shall be kept confidential to prevent further disturbance. MM -TCR -3 Procedures for Burials and Funerary Remains. If it is determined, through compliance with Public Resources Code section 5097.98 and other applicable regulatory requirements thatthe Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation is the Most Likely Descendant (MLD), the following shall be implemented: A. As the MLD, the Koo-nas-gna Burial Policy shall be implemented. To the Tribe, the term "human remains" encompasses more than human bones. In ancient as well as historic times, Tribal Traditions included, but were not limited to, the preparation of the soil for burial, the burial of funerary objects with the deceased, and the ceremonial burning of human remains. B. If the discovery of human remains includes four or more burials, the discovery location shall be treated as a cemetery and a separate treatment plan shall be created. C. The prepared soil and cremation soils are to be treated in the same manner as bone fragments that remain intact. Associated funerary objects are objects that, as part of the death rite or ceremony of a culture, are reasonably believed to have been placed with The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 22 FINDINGS OF FACT individual human remains either at the time of death or later; other items made exclusively for burial purposes or to contain human remains can also be considered as associated funerary objects. Cremations will either be removed in bulk or by means as necessary to ensure complete recovery of all sacred materials. D. In the case where discovered human remains cannot be fully documented and recovered on the same day, the remains will be covered with muslin cloth and a steel plate that can be moved by heavy equipment placed over the excavation openingto protect the remains. If this type of steel plate is not available, a 24-hour guard should be posted outside of working hours. The Tribe will make every effort to recommend diverting the project and keeping the remains in situ and protected. If the project cannot be diverted, it may be determined that burials will be removed. E. In the event preservation in place is not possible despite good faith efforts by the project applicant/developer and/or landowner, before ground -disturbing activities may resume on the project site, the landowner shall arrange a designated site location within the footprint of the project for the respectful reburial of the human remains and/or ceremonial objects. F. Each occurrence of human remains and associated funerary objects will be stored using opaque cloth bags. All human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects and objects of cultural patrimony will be removed to a secure container on site if possible. These items should be retained and reburied within six months of recovery. The site of reburial/repatriation shall be on the project site but at a location agreed upon between the Tribe and the landowner at a site to be protected in perpetuity. There shall be no publicity regarding any cultural materials recovered. G. The Tribe will work closely with the project's qualified archaeologist to ensure that the excavation is treated carefully, ethically and respectfully. If data recovery is approved by the Tribe, documentation shall be prepared and shall include (at a minimum) detailed descriptive notes and sketches. All data recovery data recovery -related forms of documentation shall be approved in advance by the Tribe. If any data recovery is performed, once complete, a final report shall be submitted to the Tribe and the NAHC. The Tribe does not authorize any scientific study or the utilization of any invasive and/or destructive diagnostics on human remains. MM -CUL -1 See Section 2.2.1, Cultural Resources, of these Findings. 2.2.6.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), feasible measures that can minimize significant adverse impacts were developed for the potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.2.6.1. These feasible measures, MM -TCR -1, MM -TCR -2, and MM -TCR -3, as well as MM -CUL -1, are listed in Section 2.2.6.2. The City finds that these mitigation measures are feasible, are adopted, and will reduce the potential tribal cultural resource impacts of the Project to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the City finds that, pursuant to CEQA Section 21O81(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15O91(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the Project that will mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts on tribal cultural resources. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 23 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.2.6.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Tribal Cultural Resources The implementation of MM -TCR -1, MM -TCR -2, and MM -TCR -3, as well as MM -CUL -1, would reduce potential impacts to tribal resources to less -than -significant levels. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to tribal cultural resources after implementation of these mitigation measures. 2.2.7 Utilities and Service Systems 2.2.7.1 Potentially Significant Impacts to Utilities and Service Systems Require or Result in the Relocation or Construction of New or Expanded Water, Wastewater Treatment, Stormwater Drainage, Electric Power, Natural Gas, or Telecommunications Facilities Wastewater Conveyance and Treatment A Sewer Area Study was conducted for the proposed Project. The anticipated net increase in wastewater flows for the Project would be 50,938 GPD, which considers the existing sewer generation of 9,012 GPD from The Derby Restaurant subtracted from the proposed Project's sewer generation of 59,950 GPD. These additional flows are anticipated to increase the monitored sewer flows within one sewer pipeline segment beyond the City's capacity limit of 50 percent capacity. There would be an increase in the flow depth between Manholes 609-45 and 609-53 located on the sewer pipeline segment beneath Fifth Avenue (north of Duarte Road) from 37.5 percent full to 53.8 percent full. Therefore, a portion of the sewer pipeline must be replaced and increased from the existing 8 -inch diameter to a larger 10 -inch diameter pipeline. As a result, the proposed Project would result in the construction of new sewer infrastructure and mitigation is required. MM-UTL-1 is required to ensure the timely replacement of a portion of the off-site sewer pipeline. As required, the Project Applicant must make a fair -share contribution to the City's costs to upgrade the sewer, which will be accomplished by the end of the City's 2024-25 fiscal year. The sewer improvement would be completed and operational by the time the proposed Project begins to occupy the available residential units, which is anticipated to be November 2025. The construction of the sewer infrastructure would be accomplished by the City and the impacts of the construction would be assessed under the City's environmental documentation pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The City, as lead agency for the proposed Project as well as the off-site sewer infrastructure improvement, has the authority to ensure the approval, construction, operation, and maintenance of the sewer infrastructure required for the proposed Project. In addition, the Districts are empowered by the California Health and Safety Code to charge a fee to connect facilities (directly or indirectly) to the Districts' Sewerage System or to increase the strength or quantity of wastewater discharged from connected facilities. This connection fee is used by the Districts for its capital facilities. Payment of a connection fee may be required before this Project is permitted to discharge to the Districts' Sewerage System. With incorporation of MM-UTL-1, and payment of all applicable fees, potential impacts related to the construction of new sewer facilities would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-21). Cumulative Effects The proposed Project would generate sewer flow that would exceed the capacity of a segment of the sewer lines under Fifth Avenue, and mitigation is required accordingly. MM-UTL-1 would require fair share payment of the costs of upgrading this sewer line. It is anticipated that future development that would contribute sewer flows to this The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 24 FINDINGS OF FACT sewer line would also benefit from the City's upsizing of the existing 8 -inch line to a larger 10 -inch diameter line. As such, with mitigation, the Project would reduce potential project -specific as well as cumulative impacts to a level less than significant. Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to sewer infrastructure would not be cumulatively considerable with incorporation of MM-UTL-1. 2.2.7.2 Mitigation Measures MM-UTL-1 Sewer Upgrade Fair Share Payment. Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy permit for the Project, the Applicant/Property Owner shall make a fair share contribution of 9 percent of the Fifth Avenue sewer upgrade project cost, not to exceed $108,000, to the City to help fund upgrading of the sewer line in Fifth Avenue. The Fifth Avenue Sewer Upgrade Project will be included in the City's 2024-25 Capital Improvement Plan budget and the work will be completed by the City's Public Works Department by the end of the 2024-25 Fiscal Year. This measure shall be implemented to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and/or the City Public Works Services Department as appropriate. 2.2.7.3 Findings per CEQA Guidelines Consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.4(a)(1), feasible measures that can minimize significant adverse impacts were developed forthe potentially significant impacts described in Section 2.2.7.1. This feasible measure, MM- UTL-1, is listed in Section 2.2.7.2. The City finds that this mitigation measure is feasible, is adopted, and will reduce the potential impacts related to utilities and service systems to less than significant levels. Accordingly, the Cityfinds that, pursuantto CEQA Section 21081(a)(1) and CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(a)(1), changes or alterations have been required in or incorporated into the Project that will mitigate or avoid potentially significant impacts related to utilities and service systems. 2.2.6.4 Facts in Support of the Findings Related to Utilities and Service Systems The implementation of MM-UTL-1 would reduce potential impacts related to utilities and service systems to a less - than -significant level. There would be no significant, unavoidable impacts related to utilities and service systems after implementation of this mitigation measure. 2.3 Impacts Determined to Be Less Than Significant Based on the analysis contained in the EIR, the following issue areas have been determined to fall within the "less - than -significant impact" category for all thresholds: Aesthetics, Agriculture and Forestry Resources, Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Energy, 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 and Recreation, Transportation, Utilities and Service Systems, and Wildfire. Other impacts for Cultural Resources, Geology and Soils, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Noise, Transportation, and Tribal Cultural Resources not addressed below, are addressed in Section 2.2. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 25 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.3.1 Aesthetics Public Resources Code Section 21099(d)(1) sets forth new guidelines for evaluating project impacts under CEQA, as follows: "Aesthetic and parking impacts of a residential, mixed-use residential, or employment center project on an infill site within transportation priority area (TPA) shall not be considered significant impacts on the environment." PRC Section 21099 defines a "transit priority area" as an area within 0.5 -mile of a major transit stop that is "existing or planned, if the planned stop is scheduled to be completed within the planning horizon included in a Transportation Improvement Program adopted pursuant to Section 450.216 or 450.322 of Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations." PRC Section 21064.3 defines "major transit stop" as "a site containing an existing rail transit station, a ferry terminal served by either a bus or rail transit service, or the intersection of two or more major bus routes with a frequency of service interval of 15 minutes or less during the morning and afternoon peak commute periods." PRC Section 21099 defines an "infill site" as a lot located within an urban area that has been previously developed, or on a vacant site where at least 75% of the perimeter of the site adjoins or is separated only by an improved public right-of-way from, parcels that are developed with qualified urban uses. The Project is a mixed-use development and PRC Section 21099 applies to the Project. Specifically, the property is a previously developed "infill" site located approximately 0.3 -mile from the Metro A Line Station which meets the definition of a "major transit stop" established under PRC Section 21099. Therefore, the Project's aesthetic effects cannot be considered a significant impact. The analysis presented in these Findings is for informational purposes only and not for determining whether the Project would result in a significant impact on the environment (Draft EIR, p. 4.1-10). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on aesthetics as it relates to scenic vistas, scenic resource damage within a state scenic highway, regulations governing scenic quality, lighting and glare, and cumulative aesthetic impacts; therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.4.2 Agriculture and Forestry Resources The Project site is located in an urban area on a site that is fully developed with buildings and asphalt paving and is entirely within the Commercial (0.5 FAR) zone ("Commercial (0.5 FAR)" General Plan land use designation), with adjacent Commercial (0.5 FAR) zone parcels. There are no existing agriculture or forestry activities on the site. No readily available opportunities for agricultural or forestry operations exist on site or in the surrounding area. Accordingto the California Department of Conservation's California Important Farmland Finder, most of Los Angeles County, including the City, is not mapped as part of the state's Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program; thus, the Project site does not contain Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of State Importance (collectively "Important Farmland") (DOC 2022a), nor does it contain any parcels under a Williamson Act contract (DOC 2022b). Additionally, the Project site nor the surrounding area contain forestland or timberland. Therefore, impacts associated with agricultural and forestry resources would not occur (Draft EIR, p. 5-10). Finding Appendix A of the Notice of Preparation for the Project found no potential for significant impacts to agriculture and forestry resources; therefore, agriculture and forestry resources was not addressed in the Draft EIR. No mitigation would be required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 26 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.4.3 Air Quality Conflict with or Obstruct Implementation of the Applicable Air Quality Plan The most recent adopted Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) is the 2022 AQMP The Southern California Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) has established criteria for determining consistency with the currently applicable AQMP in Chapter 12, Sections 12.2 and 12.3, in the SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook (Draft EIR, pp. 4.2-26 and 4.2-27). Consistency Criterion No.1 The Project would not result in construction or operational criteria air pollutant emissions that would exceed the SCAQMD mass daily thresholds. Because it would not exceed the SCAQMD criteria air pollutant mass thresholds, the Project would not result in an increase in the frequency or severity of existing air quality violations or cause or contribute to new violations, and thus, the Project would not conflict with Consistency Criterion No. 1 of the SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook (SCAQMD 1993) (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-27). Consistency Criterion No. 2 The second criterion regarding the Project's potential to exceed the assumptions in the AQMP is primarily assessed by determining consistency between the Project's land use designations and potential to generate population growth. In general, a project would be consistent with, and would not conflict with or obstruct implementation of, the AQMP if the growth in socioeconomic factors is consistent with the underlying regional plans used to develop the AQMP (per Consistency Criterion No. 2 of the SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook). The SCAQMD primarily uses demographic growth forecasts for various socioeconomic categories (e.g., population, housing, employment by industry) developed by SCAG for its RTP/SCS (SCAG 2020a). SCAG bases its growth forecasts on general plans for cities and counties in the SCAB. The SCAQMD uses these growth forecasts for the development of the AQMP emissions inventory (SCAQMD 2022).1 SCAG's 2020-2045 RTP/SCS RTP/SCS, and associated Regional Growth Forecast, are generally consistent with the local plans; therefore, the 2022 AQMP is generally consistent with local government plans. Because the Project's proposed land use designation is not consistent with the current City's General Plan land use designation, the Project may result in population (residents and employees) not anticipated in the SCAG 2020- 2045 RTP/SCS, and therefore, the 2022 SCAQMD AQMP. Accordingly, an evaluation of the Project's anticipated population in comparison to the population and employment projections for the City is warranted. The proposed Project's residential units would accommodate up to 608 residents. Additionally, the Project is estimated to result in a net addition of 34 employees as compared to existing conditions. The Final SCAG 2020- 2045 RTP/SCS provides population estimates for the years 2016 and 2045 (SCAG 2020b). SCAG estimated there were 57,300 residents in the City in 2016 and 62,200 residents by 2045 (SCAG 2020b), for a delta growth of 4,900 residents between 2016 and 2045. Current estimates place the population at 56,364, which is below the 1 Information necessary to produce the emission inventory for the SCAB is obtained from the SCAQMD and other governmental agencies, including the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the California Department of Transportation, and SCAG. Each of these agencies is responsible for collecting data (e.g., industry growth factors, socioeconomic projections, travel activity levels, emission factors, emission speciation profile, and emissions) and developing methodologies (e.g., model and demographic forecast improvements) required to generate a comprehensive emissions inventory. SCAG incorporates these data into its Travel Demand Model for estimating/projecting vehicle miles traveled and driving speeds. SCAG's socioeconomic and transportation activities projections in their 2016 RTP/SCS are integrated in the 2016 AQMP (SCAQMD 2017). The Derr Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 27 FINDINGS OF FACT population of 57,300 residents in 2016, as detailed by the SCAG 2020-2045 RTP/SCS (U.S. Census Bureau 2021, SCAG 2022b). Currently, the City's housing stock and residential population is below the predicted housing and population. Since 2010, the City has added a total of 413 new residential units, which is below the City's estimate for new housing (Graham 2022). The Project would be operational in 2025. Assuming linear growth from 2016 to 2045 of the SCAG's growth projections, there would be an increase of 1,521 residents by 2025, for a total projection 58,821 residents in the City. However, as the City's current housing and residential population is below SCAG's predicted housing and, the Project's addition of 608 residents would not exceed the SCAG's population estimate of 58,821 residents in 2025. Therefore, the Project would not exceed the SCAG's population growth projections for 2025. Similarly, the Final SCAG 2020-2045 RTP/SCS provides employment estimates forthe years 2016 and 2045 (SCAG 2022b). SCAG estimated 32,600 employees in 2016 and 36,100employees in 2045 (SCAG 2020b). Assuming linear growth from 2016 to 2045 of the SCAG's growth projections, there would be an increase of 1,569 employees by 2025, for a total projection 34,169 employees in the City in 2025. The Project would employ 34 persons in 2025 when compared to existing conditions. This represents approximately 2.2% of the employment projections in the City by 2025. The Project's designated employment does not exceed the annual growth projections for the City based on SCAG's employment growth projections for 2025. As demonstrated, the Project would not exceed the SCAG's population and employment growth projections in the City, and therefore, the Project would not conflict with Criterion 2 SCAQMD CEQA Air Quality Handbook. As the Project would not conflict with Criterion No. 1 and No. 2 of the 2022 AQMP, there would be a less -than - significant impact with regard to potential to conflict with an applicable AQMP (Draft EIR, pp. 4.2-27 and 4.2-28). Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase of Criteria Pollutants Air pollution is largely a cumulative impact. The nonattainment status of regional pollutants is a result of past and present development, and the SCAQMD develops and implements plans for future attainment of ambient air quality standards. Based on these considerations, project -level thresholds of significance for criteria pollutants are used to help determine whether a project's individual emissions would have a cumulatively considerable contribution on air quality. If a project's emissions would exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds, it would be considered to have a cumulatively considerable contribution. Conversely, projects that do not exceed the project -specific thresholds are generally not considered to be cumulatively significant (SCAQMD 2003) (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-28). Construction Emissions Daily construction emissions would not exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds for VOC, NOx, CO, SOx, PM10, or PM2.5 during construction in all construction years. Construction -generated emissions would be temporary and would not represent a long-term source of criteria air pollutant emissions (Draft EIR, pp. 4.2-28 through 4.2-30). Operational Emissions The Project's net increase in emissions would not exceed the SCAQMD operational thresholds for VOC, NO., CO, SOx, PM1o, and PM2.5. Air pollutant emissions associated with construction activity of future projects would be reduced through implementation of control measures required by the SCAQMD. Cumulative PM10 and PM2.5 emissions would be reduced because all future projects would be subject to SCAQMD Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust), which sets forth general and specific requirements for all construction sites in the SCAQMD. The maximum daily PM10 and PM2.5 emissions would not exceed the significance thresholds during Project construction activities. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 28 FINDINGS OF FACT With regard to operational cumulative impacts associated with nonattainment pollutants, in general, if a project is consistent with the community and/or general plans, it has been accounted for in the attainment demonstration contained within the state implementation plan and would therefore not cause a cumulatively significant impact on the ambient air quality. The Project would be consistent with the growth projections anticipated in SCAQMD's 2022 AQMP. Accordingly, the Project would not result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to the nonattainment pollutants in the SCAB. Based on the preceding considerations, the Project would not result in a cumulatively considerable increase in emissions of nonattainment pollutants, and impacts would be less than significant during construction and operation (Draft EIR, pp. 4.2-30 and 4.2-31). Expose Sensitive Receptors to Substantial Pollutant Concentrations Localized Significance Threshold For the Localized Significance Threshold (LST) CO and NO2 exposure analyses, receptors who could be exposed for one hour or more are considered. For the LST PM10 and PM2.5 exposure analyses, receptors who could be exposed for 24 hours are considered. As the Project site is proximate to two hotels adjacent to the Project's northern boundary (and hotel guests could be exposed for 24 hours), the threshold for 25 -meters (approximately 82 feet) is used forthis analysis. Construction activities would notgenerate emissions in excess of site-specific LSTs; therefore, site-specific impacts during construction of the Project would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.2-32 and 4.2- 33). Carbon Monoxide Hotspots CO concentrations at congested intersections would not exceed the 1 -hour or 8 -hour CO CAAQS unless projected daily traffic would be at least over 100,000 vehicles per day. As detailed in Section 4.10, Noise, of the Draft EIR, the maximum average daily trips (ADTs) at a studied intersection, with inclusion of the Project, would be 34,739 ADTs at the intersection of E. Huntington Drive and North 2nd Avenue. As the Project would not increase daily traffic volumes at any study intersection to more than 100,000 vehicles per day, a CO hotspot is not anticipated to occur, and associated impacts would be less than significant. In addition, due to continued improvement in vehicular emissions at a rate faster than the rate of vehicle growth and/or congestion, the potential for CO hotspots in the SCAB is steadily decreasing. Based on these considerations, the Project would result in a less -than -significant impact to air quality with regard to potential CO hotspots (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-33 and 4.2-34). Toxic Air Contaminants Project construction activities would result in a Residential Maximum Individual Cancer Risk of 3.9 in 1 million, which is less than the significance threshold of 10 in 1 million. Project construction would result in a Residential Chronic Hazard Index of 0.003, which is below the 1.0 significance threshold. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-34). Health Imocts of Other Criteria Air Pollutants Although construction of future development allowed for under the Project may generate NOx emissions, it is not anticipated to contribute to exceedances of the NAAQS and CAAQS for NO2 because the SCAB is designated as in attainment of the NAAQS a nd CAAQS for NO2 and the existing NO2 concentrations in the area are well below the NAAQS and CAAQS standards. As noted above, the Project would not exceed the applicable SCAQMD NOx thresholds during construction and operation. The Derby Mixed -Use Pro'ect 11663.05 October 2023 29 FINDINGS OF FACT CO tends to be a localized impact associated with congested intersections. The associated potential for CO hotspots is discussed above and is determined to be a less -than -significant impact. Thus, the Project's CO emissions would not contribute to significant health effects associated with this pollutant. Because the Project would not exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds during construction and operation, the potential health effects associated with criteria air pollutants are considered less than significant. Therefore, the Project does not have the potential to violate an air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation and the health effects associated with criteria air pollutants would be considered less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.2-34 through 4.2-37). Other Emissions Based on available information, the Project is not anticipated to result in other emissions (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-27). Construction Impacts Odors would be potentially generated from vehicles and equipment exhaust emissions during construction of the Project. Such odors would disperse rapidly from the Project site and generally occur at magnitudes that would not affect substantial numbers of people. In addition, Project construction and operation would be required to comply with SCAQMD Rule 402, Nuisance, which prohibits the discharge of air pollutants from a facility that could cause injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to the public or damage business or property. Therefore, impacts associated with odors during construction would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-38). Operational Impacts The Project does not propose odor -generating land uses duringthe operational phase of the Project. The residences and restaurant/caf6 uses may emit odors outside during cooking. These would be limited to the areas adjacent to the source and would not impact substantial numbers of people. These odors would also be short term in nature and would disperse rapidly. Furthermore, as stated above, the Project would comply with SCAQMD Rule 402, Nuisance, which prohibits the release of odors which may cause annoyance to a considerable number of persons, as well as other SCAQMD rules related to odor generation from restaurant activities. Therefore, the potential for the Project to generate an odor impact is considered less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.2-38). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on air quality as it relates to applicable air quality plans, criteria pollutants, sensitive receptors, and other emissions; therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.4 Biological Resources Special -Status Species A qualified Dudek Senior Biologist conducted electronic searches of California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the California Native Plant Society (CNPS), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) databases. The Project is not located within any designated critical habitat (USFWS 2021). No natural vegetation communities, soils, or hydrology occur on the Project site, so no special -status plant or wildlife species are expected on the Project and no impact would occur (Draft EIR, p. 5-10). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 30 FINDINGS OF FACT Riparian Habitat/Sensitive Natural Communities The Project site is developed with paved surfaces and buildings, with no native or naturalized vegetation communities present. No riparian or wetland features are present to support riparian habitat (USFWS 2022b). No impacts would occur (Draft EIR, p. 5-11). Wetlands No wetlands or other jurisdiction waters are within the Project site (USFWS 2022b). Water from rainfall flows across the impervious surfaces found on the Project site and enterthe municipal stormwater system. No impacts would occur (Draft EIR, p. 5-11). Wildlife Movement/Use of Nursery Sites There are no on-site drainages or ponds that may serve as habitat for fish species. The Project site is developed and surrounded by developed area, and it does not reside within any designated wildlife corridors and/or habitat linkages identified in the South Coast Missing Linkages analysis project or California Essential Habitat Connectivity project, so the Project would not affect the movement of any native resident or land-based wildlife species, nor would it affect established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors. Ornamental vegetation located on the Project site could provide suitable nesting habitat for some urban -adapted bird species. All development activities are subject to the requirement to protect nesting birds, in compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code, which prohibits the accidental or "incidental" taking or killing of migratory birds. The Project would be required to comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Sections 3503, 3503.5, and 3513 of the California Fish and Game Code by preventing the disturbance of nesting birds during Project construction activities. No impacts would occur (Draft EIR, p. 5-11). Conflict with Biological Resources Protection Policies and Ordinances Any development activities associated with implementation of the Project would be required to comply with all applicable requirements set forth by the City, including adherence to tree preservation and maintenance requirements. The Project site area includes 66 on-site trees, as well as seven (7) off-site street -trees adjacent to the Project's southern boundary line. Sixty-four (64) on-site trees would be removed and two (2) would be encroached upon as a result of Project implementation. None of the on-site trees are protected. In addition, one (1) off-site City owned street located on Huntington Drive would be removed and, and six (6) City owned trees within the public right-of-way along Huntington Drive would be encroached upon. According to Division 10, Section 9110.01, Tree Preservation, of the City's Development Code, a permit is required prior to removal of any protected tree, as well as prior to any encroachment into the protected zone of any protected tree. Due to the required adherence to City regulations, impacts associated with biological resources protection policies and ordinances would be less than significant and would not require further evaluation in the Draft EIR (Draft EIR, pp. 5-11 and 5- 12). Conflict with Habitat Conservation Plan/Natural Community Conservation Plan The Project site is located in a highly urbanized area, and there is no adopted Habitat Conservation Plan or Natural Community Conservation Plan for the site or the surrounding area. No conflict with a Habitat Conservation Plan or Natural Community Conservation Plan would occur with the Project (Draft EIR, p. 5-12). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 31 FINDINGS OF FACT Finding Appendix A of the Notice of Preparation for the Project found no potential for significant impacts to biological resources; therefore, biological resources were not addressed in the Draft EIR. No mitigation would be required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.4.5 Cultural Resources Historical Resources In order to determine if the Project would impact historical resources under CEQA, all buildings or structures over 45 years in age within or immediately adjacent to the Project site were evaluated for historical significance and integrity in consideration of the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR), and the City of Arcadia designation criteria and integrity requirements (see Appendix D-2 of the Draft EIR). One property within the Project site is over the age of 50 and required inventory and evaluation consideration under CEQA; The Derby Restaurant, located at 223 E. Huntington Drive. The other property on the site, 301 E. Huntington Drive, includes a building constructed in 1988. Because this building is not 45 years or older it does not require further consideration under CEQA. The following discussion provides a detailed significance evaluation of the Derby Restaurant. Criterion A/1,/1: That are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. The Derby Restaurant has associations with a pattern of events that have made contributions to the development of the horseracing community under NRHP Criterion A, CRHR Criterion 1, and City of Arcadia Historic Landmark Criterion 1. The period of significance for the subject property is 1931 to 1951; spanning the year the restaurant was first established at its location, to the date that the property was no longer operated by the Woolf family. This is the period in which the restaurant grew in popularity, became a well-known establishment, and solidified its link to the horse racing community. The property's ability to convey significance under this Criterion is addressed below after Criterion D/4/4 under "Integrity Discussion." Criterion B/2/2. That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. Famed horseracing jockey George Woolf briefly owned the restaurant from December of 1938 until his death in 1946. While George Woolf is historically significant as a horse racing jockey, the connection to the work he is known for, horseracing, is shown through the memorabilia that remains inside the restaurant. However, The Derby Restaurant is not where he performed the work for which he is known (i.e., horse racing). Woolf is famous for his career as a jockey and his productive years are most closely associated with the Santa Anita racetrack where he famously raced. The racing facility serves as a more intact representative example of his career than The Derby Restaurantthat he brieflyowned. Lackinga direct association with an individual's important achievements for which they are known, The Derby Restaurant is not eligible under NRHP Criterion B, CRHR Criterion 2, or City of Arcadia Historic Landmark Criterion 2. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 32 FINDINGS OF FACT Criterion C1313: That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction. Hudson M. Proctor constructed the building that would house The Derby Restaurant in 1931 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. He was reported in a few articles to have experience in construction, and he did not hire a contractor or architect to design the building. Owners Dominic and Lorene Sturniolo completely remodeled the restaurant in 1951 with additions to the primary and west elevations that removed all former Spanish Colonial Revival elements in addition to removing original freestanding signage and removingthe large oak tree that once fronted the building. Beyond the upstairs office, no elements of the 1931 era building remain. Since the late 1990s, the restaurant has experienced large additions to the west elevation, removal of original exterior brick, and the addition of new exterior chimneys. Due to numerous alterations, the building no longer possesses any character -defining features of the 1930s Spanish Colonial Revival style. Although the building as it currently stands features Ranch and neo - Craftsman elements, it no longer possesses a discernable architectural style. In addition, the restaurant no longer exhibits the architectural and site -planning elements of its original 1930s -era cafe -restaurant type due to alterations. Lacking architectural distinction, or any known connection with the work of a master architect, The Derby Restaurant is not eligible under NRHP Criterion C, CRHR Criterion 3, or City of Arcadia Historic Landmark Criterion 3. Criterion D/4/4: That have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. The Derby Restaurant is not significant under Criterion D of the NRNP, Criterion 4 of the CRHR, or City of Arcadia Historic Landmark Criterion 4 as a source, or likely source, of important historical information nor does it appear likely to yield important information about historic construction methods, materials or technologies. Integrity Discussion To be eligible for listing in the NRNP, CRHR, or as a landmark in the City of Arcadia, properties must have a clear association under one or more Criterion and retain historic integrity to the period of significance established under the Criterion for which it has an association. Despite a clear association under Criterion A/1/1, alterations to the propertysince 1951 have modified the property to extent that it appears to be a building constructed in the latter half of the twentieth century rather than a building from the 1931 to 1951 period (i.e., the period when the building was originally constructed and gained prominence as a restaurant associated with the horseracing community through Woolf). Despite the connection to Woolf that remains through his horseracing memorabilia collection featured in the interior, the interior space has been altered since 1951 to the extent that even with elements of the collection exhibited the connection to the period of significance has been lost. Additionally, no exterior elements of the restaurant remain from the historic era establishment that Woolf would recognize. The original Spanish Colonial Design of the building has been completely altered, original signage removed, and large oak tree fronting the building has also been removed. The building is now surrounded by paved parking lots and more recent commercial building construction. These changes have resulted in destroying the connection to the period when the restaurant became "The Derby" (i.e., 1931 to 1951; the period of significance for the subject property). In summary, the loss of integrity in the areas of design, materials, workmanship, setting and feeling, has caused the property to no longer be capable of conveying an association to the period of significance (1931 to 1951) when it was first developed and the connection for which it is known. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 33 FINDINGS OF FACT Despite The Derby Restaurant's association under NRHP Criterion A, CRHR Criterion 1, or City of Arcadia Historic Landmark Criterion 1, the substantial loss of historic integrity to its period of significance precludes the property from being considered eligible for listing. Additional City of Arcadia Criteria Considerations For a resource to be found significant as a City of Arcadia historic landmark, in addition to meeting City of Arcadia Criterion 1 through 4, it must be listed in the NRHP or CRHR (Criteria 5) or considered an iconic property (Criteria 6). The Derby Restaurant, as stated above, does not meet Criteria 1 due to a lack of historic integrity to its period of significance and the property does not meet Criterion 2 through 4 due to a lack of significance. As such the property is not eligible for listing as a City of Arcadia historic landmark. Summary of Findings The property is not considered a historical resource for the purposes of CEQA. Further, no potential indirect impacts to historical resources were identified. Removal of this building would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource, or otherwise result in a direct impact to a historical resource. No other adjacent resources were identified as historical resources as a result of the records search or survey that could be indirectly impacted by the Project. Therefore, the Project would have a less -than- significant impact on historical resources. No mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.3-18 through 4.3-21). Disturbance of Human Remains No prehistoric or historic burials were identified within the Project site as a result of the CHRIS records search. Procedures of conduct following the discovery of human remains are mandated by California Health and Safety Code §7050.5, PRC §5097.98 and the California Code of Regulations (CCR) §15064.5(e). Compliance with these existing regulations would ensure that impacts to human remains resulting from the Project would be less than significant. No mitigation is required (Draft EIR 4.3-22). Cumulative Effects Historical Resources The Derby Restaurant (i.e., the property located within the Project site at 233 E. Huntington Drive), is not eligible for NRNP, CRHR, or City designation due to a lack of significant historical associations, architectural merit, and physical integrity. Therefore, the property is not considered a historical resource for the purposes of CEQA. Further, no potential indirect impacts to historical resources were identified. Given this, the Project would not cumulatively contribute to a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource, or otherwise result in a direct impact to a historical resource. No other adjacent resources were identified as a result of the records search or survey that could be indirectly impacted by the Project. Therefore, the Project would have a less- than -significant cumulative impact on historical resources (Draft EIR, p. 4.3-23). Human Remains The Project was determined to have less -than -significant direct impacts on human remains. Existing regulations are adequate to address the potential for impacts due to the inadvertent discovery of human remains on the Project site. Other individual projects occurring in the vicinity of the Project site would also be subject to the same state requirements to contact appropriate agencies and coordinate with the County Coroner. Therefore, the Project's The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 34 FINDINGS OF FACT incremental contribution to cumulative impacts would not be considerable resulting in a less -than -significant cumulative impact (Draft EIR p. 4.3-24). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on cultural resources as it relates to historical resources and disturbance of human remains, therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.6 Energy Wasteful, Inefficient, or Unnecessary Consumption of Energy Electricity Construction There is nothing unusual about construction of the Project that would result in a wasteful, inefficient, and unnecessary use of electrical energy. The electricity used for construction activities would be temporary and would have a negligible contribution to the Project's overall energy consumption. Impacts to electricity during construction would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.4-12 and 4.4-13). The Project's electrical consumption would be a small percentage (0.003%) of the County's current annual use. SCE forecasts that its total energy consumption in 2025 (the Project buildout year) will be approximately 116,647 gigawatt hours of electricity (CEC 2022). Based on the Project's estimated net electrical consumption of 1,582,100 kWh/year, the Project's increase in electricity would account for approximately 0.0014% of SCE's total projected consumption during 2025 for the Project's buildoutyear.2 In addition, the Project would be built in accordance with the current Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24) at the time of construction, which include robust requirements for energy efficiency. Also, the provisions of the CALGreen code apply to the planning, design, operation, construction, use and occupancy of every newly constructed building or structure. In mixed occupancy buildings, such as the Project, each portion of a building must comply with the specific green building measures applicable to each specific occupancy. Therefore, due to the inherent increase in efficiency of building code regulations, the Project would not result in a wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary use of energy. Impacts related to operational electricity use would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.4-13 and 4.4-14). Natural Gas Natural gas is not anticipated to be required during construction of the Project. Any minor amounts of natural gas that may be consumed as a result of Project construction would be substantially less than that required for Project's operation and would have a negligible contribution to the Project's overall energy consumption (Draft EIR, p. 4.4-14). Operations 2 Project's consumption (2.576 gigawatt hours) divided by SCE's projected consumption (116,647 gigawatt hours). The Derby Mixed -Use Project_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 35 FINDINGS OF FACT The Project would consume approximately 3,591,503 net kBTU per year. The Project's estimated net increase in natural gas consumption of 3,591,503 kBTU (or 35,923 therms) per year would be a small percentage (0.0012%) of SoCalGas' annual supply to County customers. In addition, the Project is subject to statewide mandatory energy requirements as outlined in Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations. Title 24, Part 11, contains energy measures that are applicable to the Project. The Project would be required to meet Title 24 requirements applicable at thattime, as required by state regulations through the plan review process. Therefore, due to the inherent increase in efficiency of building code regulations, the Project would not result in a wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary use of natural gas. Impacts related to operational natural gas use would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.4-14 and 4.4-15). Petroleum Construction Construction associated with the Project over the construction period is conservatively anticipated to consume 91,363 gallons of diesel from off-road equipment, haul trucks, and vendor trucks, and 51,851 gallons of gasoline from worker vehicles. The Project would be subject to California Air Resources Board's (CARB's) In -Use Off -Road Diesel Vehicle Regulation. The regulation (1) imposes limits on idling, requires a written idling policy, and requires a disclosure when selling vehicles; (2) requires all vehicles to be reported to CARB (usingthe Diesel Off -Road Online Reporting System) and labeled; (3) restricts the adding of older vehicles into fleets startingon January 1, 2014; and (4) requires fleets to reduce their emissions by retiring, replacing, or repowering older engines or installing Verified Diesel Emission Control Strategies (i.e., exhaust retrofits). The fleet must either show that its fleet average index was less than or equal to the calculated fleet average target rate, or that the fleet has met the Best Achievable Control Technology requirements. Overall, the Project would not be unusual when compared to overall local and regional demand for energy resources and would not involve characteristics that require equipment that would be less energy-efficient than at comparable construction sites in the region or state. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.4- 15 and 4.4-16). Operations The fuel consumption resulting from the Project's operational phase would be attributable to various vehicles associated with each land use. Petroleum fuel consumption associated with motor vehicles travelingwithin the City duringoperation is a function of VMT. Trip generation rates for the Project and existing operational uses were based on the Traffic Impact Analysis (Appendix) -1 of the Draft EIR). Net mobile sources (includingfrom landscaping equipment) from buildout of the Project would result in approximately 202,816 gallons of petroleum fuel usage per year. For disclosure, by comparison, California as a whole consumes approximately 22 billion barrels gallons of petroleum per year (EIA 2022d). Over the lifetime of the Project, the fuel efficiency of vehicles is expected to increase. As such, the amount of petroleum consumed as a result of vehicular trips to and from the Project site during operation would decrease over time. There are numerous regulations in place that require and encourage increased fuel efficiency. As such, operation of the Project is expected to use decreasing amounts of petroleum overtime dueto advances in vehicle fuel economy standards. In summary, the Project would increase petroleum use during operation, but due to efficiency increases the amount of petroleum consumed would diminish over time. Petroleum consumption associated with the Project would not be considered inefficient or wasteful and would result in a less than significant impact (Draft EIR, pp. 4.4-16 and 4.4-17). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 36 FINDINGS OF FACT Renewable Energy Potential As part of the Project's planning process, the City considered how the Project could potentially increase its reliance on renewable energy sources to meet the Project's anticipated energy demand. Given the Project's location and the infill nature of the Project, there are anticipated considerable site constraints at a parcel level including incompatibility with onsite and surrounding land uses for large scale power generation facilities, unknown interconnection feasibility, compatibility with utility provider systems, and no known water or geothermal resources to harness, that would eliminate the potential for biomass, geothermal, wind power, and hydroelectric renewable energy to be installed within the Project area.Regarding solar power, the future Project is anticipated to include solar power, which at a minimum, will be provided for newly built low-rise residential buildings, and non-residential buildings are anticipated to be solar-readyto comply with Title 24 building energy efficiency standards. The Project would use renewable energyonsite as determined to befeasible and would not result in wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, including electricity, natural gas, or petroleum during Project construction or operation, and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.4-17). Conflict or Obstruct Plan for Renewable Energy Construction Construction equipment would be required to comply with federal, state, and regional requirements where applicable. With respect to truck fleet operators, United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) have adopted fuel -efficiency standards for medium- and heavy-duty trucks that will be phased in over time. In addition, construction equipment and trucks are required to comply with CARB regulations regarding heavy-duty truck idling limits of 5 minutes per occurrence. Off-road emissions standards would increase equipment efficiencies as they are phased -in over time and less -efficient equipment is phased out of construction fleets. These limitations would result in an increase in energy savings in the form of reduced fuel consumption from more fuel-efficient engines. Although these requirements are intended to reduce criteria pollutant emissions, compliance with the anti -idling and emissions regulations would also result in the efficient use of construction -related energy. Thus, based on the information above, construction and operation of the Project would comply with state or local plans for renewable energy or energy efficiency. Therefore, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency regarding during Project construction, and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.4-17 and 4.4-18). Operation The Project would comply with all applicable regulatory requirements including Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations contains energy efficiency standards for residential and nonresidential buildings based on a state mandate to reduce California's energy demand. Specifically, Title 24 addresses a number of energy efficiency measures that impact energy used for lighting, water heating, heating, and air conditioning, including the energy impact of the building envelope such as windows, doors, wall/floor/ceiling assemblies, and roofs. Part 6 of Title 24 specifically establishes energy efficiency standards for residential and nonresidential buildings constructed in the State of California in orderto reduce energy demand and consumption. Part 11 of Title 24 also includes the CALGreen standards, which established mandatory minimum environmental performance standards for new construction projects. The Project would comply with Title 24, Part 6 and Part 11, per state regulations. Additionally, the Project would receive electricity from SCE, which has the mandate to comply with SB 1020. This policy requires that eligible renewable energy resources and zero -carbon resources supply 100% of the retail sales of electricity to California by 2045, with 90% by 2035, and 95% by 2040, and that the zero -carbon electricity resources do not increase the carbon The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 37 FINDINGS OF FACT emissions elsewhere in the western grid and that the achievement not be achieved through resource shuffling. Thus, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency; therefore, impacts during construction and operation of the Project would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.4-18). Cumulative Effects Wasteful, Inefficient, or Unnecessary Consumption of Energy Cumulative projects would be required by Los Angeles County or City of Arcadia, as applicable, to conform to current federal, state, and local energy conservation standards, including the California Energy Code Building Energy Efficiency Standards (24 CCR Part 6), the CALGreen Code (24 CCR Part 11), and SB 743. Therefore, the energy demand and use associated with the Project and cumulative projects would not substantially contribute to a cumulative impact on existing or proposed energy supplies or resources and would not cause a significant cumulative impact on energy resources. As such, the Project's contribution to cumulative impacts related to wasteful, inefficient and unnecessary use of electricity would not be cumulatively considerable and, thus, would be less than significant. Conflict or Obstruct Plan for Renewable Energy The Project would not conflict with applicable plans for renewable energy as it would be required to be solar -ready pursuant to Title 24. Further, other projects, including development throughout the state, would also be subject to the Title 24 standards in place at the time of construction. The Project's contribution to cumulative impacts related to renewable energy or energy efficiency would not be cumulatively considerable and, thus, would be less than significant. Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on energy as it relates to consumption of energy, conflict or obstruction of a plan for renewable energy, and cumulative impacts to energy, therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.7 Geology and Soils Expose People or Structures to Fault Rupture The Project site is not within an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone and no known Holocene -active or potentially active faults pass directly beneath the site (CGS 2022a, 2022b). Because no faults traverse the site, the Project site would not be subject to rupture of a known earthquake fault. Furthermore, the Project site would not directly or indirectly cause or exacerbate existingfault rupture risks from the construction of new buildings and associated infrastructure on the Project site because no Project -related activities would occur within the Raymond Fault zone. Therefore, no impact related to surface rupture of a known earthquake fault would occur (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-12). Expose People or Structures to Strong Seismic Ground Shaking The Project site is located in the seismically active Southern California region. The CBC provides procedures for earthquake -resistant structural design that includes considerations of on-site soil conditions, occupancy, and the configuration of the structure, including the structural system and height. Although conformance with CBC seismic The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 38 FINDINGS OF FACT design requirements does not guarantee that significant structural damage or ground failure would not occur in the event of a large earthquake, the proposed structures would be designed to resist structural collapse and thereby provide reasonable protection from serious injury, catastrophic property damage, and loss of life. Standards provided in CBC Section 1803 require preparation of a geotechnical evaluation and that all recommendations set forth in a final site-specific design -level geotechnical report - which would be based on the Geotechnical Investigation that was prepared for the Project - be incorporated into all applicable phases of Project excavation, grading and construction. Therefore, upon compliance with the CBC and City policies aimed at minimizing geologic hazards, including CBC Section 1803, requiringthe incorporation of recommendations set forth in the final design - level site-specific geotechnical investigation, the Project would not directly or indirectly be affected by substantial adverse effects involving strong seismic ground shaking, and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-13). Expose People or Structures to Liquefaction According to the Geotechnical Investigation, the historical high groundwater levels for the general area have been interpreted at 150 feet below the ground surface in the vicinity of the Project site, and the potential for liquefaction to occur beneath the Project site is considered to be very low (Appendix E-1 of the Draft EIR). Furthermore, the Project site is not located within a mapped California Geologic Survey liquefaction hazard zone (Appendix E-1, CGS 2022). As such, seismic -related ground failure due to liquefaction would not be expected to occur on the Project site and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-14). Expose People or Structures to Landslides The topography of the Project site and adjacent areas is relatively flat to gently sloping; therefore, the Project site is not susceptible to landslides. In addition, the Project site is not located within an earthquake -induced landslide zone, as designated by the CGS and the City. As such, implementation of the Project would not directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, includingthe risk of loss, Injury, or death involving landslides (Appendix E-1). Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-14). Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil Construction The Project site is not located in a hillside development area or agricultural zone that could be susceptible to loss of topsoil due to site development. The Project site is currently developed with buildings and paved, with only a negligible amount of soil exposed in areas of ornamental landscaping. Prior to the start of construction activities, the Contractor is required to file a Permit Registration Document with the SWRCB, in orderto obtain coverage under the NPDES Construction General Permit. No grading permit would be issued unless the plans for such work include a SWPPP with details of BMPs, which include erosion control measures to minimize the transport of sediment and protect public and private property from the effects of erosion. The required SWPPP would establish site-specific erosion and sediment control BMPs for all construction activities. Although the Project would require excavation of soils related to construction of the subterranean parking structure and related to removal and re -compaction of collapsible soils, this would not result in a substantial loss of topsoil. Therefore, with compliance of the NPDES General Construction Permit, potential impacts associated with soil erosion and/or loss of topsoil would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.5-14 and 4.5-15). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 39 FINDINGS OF FACT Operations Long-term operation of the Project would not result in substantial soil erosion or loss of topsoil as the majority of the Project site would be covered by structures and paving, while the remaining portions of the site would contain irrigated landscaping. No exposed areas subject to erosion would be created or affected by the Project and impacts related to erosion or loss of topsoil would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-15). Located on or Would Cause Unstable Soil Landslides The Project site is not located within a zone of required investigation for earthquake -induced landslides, as identified by the CGS and the City (Appendix E-1 of the Draft EIR; City of Arcadia 2010). There are no known landslides near the site, nor is the site in the path of any known or potential landslides. Therefore, the Project would not be located on a geologic unit that is unstable with respect to landslides. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-16). Liquefaction/Lateral Spreading The Project site is not located in an area potentially susceptible to liquefaction or lateral spreading, as discussed in the Geotechnical Investigation (Appendix E-1 of the Draft EIR). Impacts associated with lateral spreading would be similar to those associated with liquefaction and would therefore be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-16). Subsidence According to the Geotechnical Investigation, the existing artificial fill and any unsuitable, soft alluvial soils onsite are considered suitable for reuse provided they are compacted to meet current building code requirements (Appendix E-1 of the Draft EIR). In addition, accordingto the Geotechnical Investigation the Projectsite is not located within an area of known ground subsidence (Appendix E-1). No large-scale extraction of groundwater, gas, oil, or geothermal energy is occurring or planned at the site or in the general site vicinity. There appears to be little or no potential for ground subsidence due to the withdrawal of fluids or gases at the site. As such, impacts related to subsidence would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-16). Collapsible Soils The Geotechnical Investigation concluded that after appropriate site preparations (e.g., removal and re -compaction of artificial fills) settlement is anticipated to be tolerable for the proposed development. A final design -level geotechnical investigation report is required in accordance with the CBC. As previously discussed, the 2022 edition of the CBC, including Appendix J, pertaining to grading requirements, is adopted by reference pursuant to Section 8110 of the AMC (City of Arcadia 2021). Geotechnical investigations must be prepared by registered professionals (i.e., California Registered Civil Engineer or Certified Engineering Geologist). Recommendations from geotechnical investigations must be incorporated into the design and construction of the Project, as reviewed, and approved by the City's Development Services Department. As such, impacts related to collapsible/compressible soils would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-16 and 4.5-17). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 40 FINDINGS OF FACT Located on Expansive Soil According to the Geotechnical Investigation, the site is underlain by artificial fill and Holocene age alluvium fan deposits comprised of sand with varying amount of silt, gravel, and cobbles (Appendix E-1 of the Draft EIR). The granular nature of the soils is considered to be non -expansive, and the Geotechnical Investigation assumes that proposed foundations and slabs would be constructed with non -expansive materials. As such, the Project would not create substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property with respect to expansive soils and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-17). Soils Incapable of Supporting Septic Tanks The Project site is located in the City and is currently served by existing sewer infrastructure, and any new development would require connectingto the City's existing sewer infrastructure system. There are no septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal proposed for the Project's use; therefore, implementation of the Project would result in no impact related to septic systems or alternative wastewater disposal systems (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-17). Cumulative Effects Expose People or Structures to Fault Rupture, Strong Seismic Ground Shaking, Liquefaction, Landslides Seismic risks tend to be site-specific rather than cumulative in nature because the effects are so dependent on site-specific conditions and do not combine from site to site. For current and future projects, any development occurring within the County of Los Angeles, City of Arcadia, or other nearby municipalities would be subject to site development and seismic construction standards and code requirements to ensure protection from substantive damage or injury in the event of a seismic event. Adherence to these existing seismic building code requirements would ensure that adverse effects related to fault rupture, ground shaking, liquefaction, and landslides is minimized and would not become cumulatively considerable. Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to fault rupture, ground shaking, liquefaction, and landslides would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, 4.5-19). Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil Similar to the Project, all cumulative projects would be subject to existing regulations, policies, and plans established by the County of Los Angeles, City of Arcadia, or other nearby municipalities within the Santa Anita Wash watershed, as well as the Los Angeles RWCQB, that relate to erosion control. While these regulations are primarily designed to protect water quality of receiving waters, they are also effective in minimizing soil erosion or loss of topsoil. Regulations and plans that the cumulative projects would likely be subjectto include NPDES permitting and associated SWPPPs and BMPs; Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan Water Quality Objectives for Inland Surface Waters; the City of Arcadia Development Code, Los Angeles County Code, and development codes of other municipalities within the watershed; and applicable General Plan goals and policies. Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to soil erosion and loss of topsoil would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-19). Located on or Would Cause Unstable Soil, Resulting in Landslides, Liquefaction/Lateral Spreading, Subsidence, Collapsible Soils Geotechnical hazards tend to be site-specific because conditions can change over relatively short distances and they tend not to combine to become cumulatively considerable. In accordance with the local building code The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 41 FINDINGS OF FACT requirements and CBC, each cumulative project would be required to prepare and implement recommendations from a comprehensive Final Geotechnical Engineering Investigation report that would be conducted by a California licensed geotechnical engineer or engineering geologist that further evaluates the soils underlying each site to evaluate the potential for landslides, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse and provide geotechnical engineering improvements in site preparations and/or foundation design consistent with building code requirements that ensure stability. Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to unstable soils would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-19 and 4.5-20). Located on Expansive Soil Impacts related to expansive soils tend to be site-specific rather than cumulative in nature, and cumulative projects occurring within the City and the City of Monrovia would be subject to, at a minimum, building code requirements which include minimum standards for expansive properties. As with the Project site, cumulative projects would be subject to the same local, regional, and State regulations pertaining to expansive soil hazards, including CBC and local building code requirements. With conformance to such regulations and implementation of Project -specific design features required in their respective geotechnical reports, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to expansive soils would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-20). Soils Incapable of Supporting Septic Tanks The Project would not include the use of septic or alternative wastewater disposal systems and as a result cannot contribute to a cumulative impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.5-20). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on fault rupture, strongseismic ground shaking, liquefaction, landslides, erosion, unstable soil, expansive soil, and septic tanks; therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Greenhouse Gas Emissions CaIEEMod was used to calculate the annual GHG emissions based on the construction scenario anticipated to commence in March 2024 and reach completion in November 2025, lasting a total of 21 months. On-site sources of GHG emissions include off-road equipment and off-site sources including haul trucks, vendor trucks, on-site trucks, and worker vehicles. The estimated total GHG emissions during would be approximately 1,419 MT CO2e over the construction period. When amortized over 30 years, the construction emissions would be approximately 47 MT CO2e (Draft EIR, p. 4.6-27 and 4.6-28). The net GHG emissions associated with development of the Project equal to approximately 2,227 CO2e would be below the SCAQMD GHG threshold of 3,000 MT CO2e per year. Even without taking into account the removal of the existing land uses, the Project's estimated emissions would be below the SCAQMD GHG threshold of 3,000 MT CO2e per year. Therefore, the Project would not generate GHG emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment, and this would represent a less than significant impact (Draft EIR p. 4.6-28 and 4.6-29). Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 42 FINDINGS OF FACT Consistency with the Connect SoCal (2020-2045 RTP/SCS) The Project would accommodate an expected 608 residents which would be counted within the overall population growth projections included in the Connect SoCal of 5,519 residents between 2020 and 2045. Because the Project would support SCAG's goals and strategies for growth in the region, and because the Project would assist the development of new housing and improves the City's job/housing balance, impacts related to population growth assumed in Connect SoCal would be less than significant. The Project would not conflict with any of the goals within SCAG's Connect SoCal. Therefore, the Project would not conflict with the goal to improve air quality and GHG emissions in the region (Draft EIR, pp. 4.6-29 through 4.6-32). Consistency with CARB's 2017 Scoping Plan, SB 32, and EO S-3-05 The Project would not conflict with the applicable strategies and measures in the 2017 Scoping Plan, The Project would support achievement of the SB 32 and EO S-3-05 goals through compliance with GHG reducing plans and strategies identified in SCAG's 2020-2045 RTP/SCS to reduce per capita GHG emissions (Draft EIR, pp. 4.6-32 through 4.6-38). Consistency with CARB's 2022 Scoping Plan, AB 1279, and EO B-55-18 The Project site is currently built out with existing underutilized uses, and thus, would not result in the loss or conversion of the State's natural and working lands. As the Project is within a TPA and in proximity to Metro's A Line Station, the Project would facilitate transit ridership for future residents and employees at the site. The Projectwould supportthe use of the existing and proposed pedestrian, bicycle, and mass -transit infrastructure and connectivity. The Project would not result in a loss of affordable units and would provide new affordable units and residential uses to a site that currently does provide residential uses. Additionally, the Project would provide 96 dwelling units per acre, which exceeds the suggested minimum of 20 residential dwelling units per acre as detailed in the 2022 Scoping Plan. As demonstrated above, the proposed Project would not conflict with CARB's 2022 Scoping Plan updates and with the state's ability to achieve the GHG reduction and carbon neutrality goals. The Project would not conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducingthe emissions of GHGs, and this impact would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.6-39). Cumulative Effect Greenhouse Gas Emissions Global climate change is a cumulative impact; a project participates in this potential impactthrough its incremental contribution combined with the cumulative increase of all other sources of GHGs. The Project would not result in GHG emissions in exceedance of the interim SCAQMD significance threshold. Therefore, the Project would not result in a cumulatively considerable impact with regard to generation of GHG emissions and the cumulative impact would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.6-39 and 4.6-40). Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy, or Regulation The Project would be consistent with all applicable GHG reduction plans, including the 2020-2045 RTP/SCS Connect SoCal, CARB's 2017 Scoping Plan, CARB's 2022 Scoping Plan, AB 1279, SB 32, EO -S-3-05, and EO 6-55- 18. Therefore, the Project would not result in a cumulatively considerable regarding conflict with any applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions (Draft EIR, p. 4.6-40). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 43 FINDINGS OF FACT Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on emissions generated, consistency with applicable regulations, and cumulative GHG effects; therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.9 Hazards and Hazardous Materials Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Materials/Release of Hazardous Materials and the Potential for Upset Conditions LongTerm Operational Impacts The operational phase of the proposed Project would not be expected to create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials would be limited to use of commercially available cleaning products, landscaping chemicals and fertilizers, and various other commercially available substances. Such chemicals are typically used in residential and commercial uses, and when used in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and applicable regulations, do not result in a riskto human health or the environment. The routine transport, use, and/or disposal of these substances would be subject to applicable federal, state, and local health and safety laws and regulations, which would minimize health risk to the public and the environment and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.7-17 and 4.7-18). Hazardous Materials within One -Quarter mile of an Existing or Proposed School The school nearest to the Project site is Rancho Learning Center, which is approximately 0.07 miles south of the Project site. As such, there is a school located within one-quarter mile of the proposed Project site. The Project includes residential and commercial (restaurant) uses that do not require the use of large quantities of hazardous or acutely hazardous materials. Other hazardous materials would be limited to use of commercially available cleaning products, landscaping chemicals and fertilizers, and various other commercially available substances. Such chemicals are typically used in residential and commercial uses, and when used in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and applicable regulations, do not result in a risk to human health or the environment. Therefore, the potential for the Project to affect Rancho Learning Center is limited, and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-19). Cortese List The Project site is not listed on a Cortese List site, nor is it likelythatthe Projectsite has been impacted by Cortese List site. Therefore, the Project would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment due to its location of a hazardous materials site included on the list compiled under Government Code Section 65762.5, and no impact would occur (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-19). Near an Airport or within an Airport Land Use Plan The Project site is not located within 2 miles of a public use airport, nor is it located within an airport land use plan. Therefore, the Project would not result in a safety hazard or excessive noise due to proximity to an airport for people residing or working in the Project area, and no impact would occur (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-20). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 44 FINDINGS OF FACT Impair or Interfere with an Adopted Emergency Response Plan or Emergency Evacuation Plan LongTerm Operational Impacts The Project site is located in an urban area near the City's downtown, which is within the existing service area for the Arcadia Fire Department and other first responders. The Project would comply with all applicable provisions of the City's Municipal Code and CFC (as amended) pertaining to emergency access and preparedness, including Section 403.b, requiring preparation of an approved fire safety and evacuation plan, and Section 501.3, requiring review and approval of Project plans to ensure adequate roadway and building access for emergency responders. Compliance with CFC requirements would ensure appropriate access and other conditions (i.e., emergency responder radio coverage) for first responders during Project operation. Additionally, the Project would be required to adhere to General Plan Safety Element Policies S-5.1, S-5.2, and S-5.11, which require police and fire department personnel to be involved in the development review process, require integration of new technologies for crime and fire prevention in new development, and require new developments to pay for costs associated with increased public safety needs. The Project's required compliance with the CFC and other City policies and standards adopted to ensure proper emergency response and evacuation would ensure that operational Project impacts related to implementation of the EMP and OAERP would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-21). Wildland Fires The Project site is located in a highly urbanized area and is not located within an area of high wildfire hazard, such as a wildland urban interface area, State Responsibility Area, or within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (CAL FIRE 2022). Therefore, people and structures would not be subject to significant risks related to wildland fires, and no impacts would occur (Draft EIR, p. 4.7-21). Cumulative Effect Hazardous Materials within One -Quarter mile of an Existing or Proposed School The school nearest to the Project site is Rancho Learning Center, which is approximately 0.07 miles south of the Project site. As such, there is a school located within one-quarter mile of the Project site. Cumulative project A2, would comply with all existing regulation regarding the use of hazardous materials, which would prevent releases of hazardous materials from soils on cumulative project sites into the environment. Additionally, similar to the Project, cumulative project A2 would support mixed commercial and residential uses and would not include industrial uses that would be likely to generate or store reportable quantities of hazardous or acutely hazardous materials within one quarter mile of a school. Compressed gas canisters used for beverage sales in restaurants and propane tanks (if used) would not exceed reportable quantities and would be handled and stored pursuant to applicable CFC, Health and Safety Code, and OSHA standards. Due to the nature of the proposed land uses and required compliance with applicable regulations, impacts related to the Project in combination with cumulative project A2 would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, 4.7-24). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on hazards and hazardous materials as it relates to the long-term use, storage and transport of hazardous materials; proximity of an existing or proposed school; the proximity of the project to an airport or an airport land use plan; emergency response plan; Cortese list; wildland fires; and cumulative impacts to hazards and hazardous materials; therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 45 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.3.10 Hydrology and Water Quality Violate Water Quality Standards or Waste Discharge Requirements Short -Term Construction Impacts In accordance with the Construction General Permit, as established by the Porter -Cologne Water Quality Act, the development of an acre or more of land must file a notice of intent with the SWRCB, followed by development of a site-specific SWPPP for construction activities (AMC Section 7827, General Control of Runoff Required, Construction Activity). The property owner/developer must comply with the Construction General Permit applicable at the time a grading permit is issued. The SWPPP must include erosion- and sediment -control BMPs that will meet or exceed measures required by the determined risk level of the Construction General Permit, as well as BMPs that control the other potential construction -related pollutants. Final and comprehensive grading plans would be approved by the City Engineer before the City issues grading permits, in compliance with all applicable AMC requirements, including Section 7554.6, Soil and Grading Requirements, and Article VIII, Chapter 13, Los Angeles County Grading Code. The historical high groundwater levels in the Project vicinity have been identified at 150 feet below the ground surface, and as such, excavation activities associated with the subterranean parking garage and elevator pits are not expected to encounter groundwater. Groundwater dewatering would be controlled in compliance with the Waste Discharge Requirements for the Discharge of Groundwater from Construction and Project Dewatering to Surface Waters in Coastal Watersheds of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties (Order No. R4-2018-0125, NPDES No. CAG994004). This permit requires permittees to conduct monitoring of dewatering discharges and adhere to effluent and receiving water limitations contained within the permit so that the water quality of surface waters is protected. Therefore, compliance with existing regulations would ensure that the Project would not violate any water quality standards or WDRs or otherwise substantially degradesurface orgroundwater qualityfrom demolition and construction activities. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8-13 through 4.8-15). Long�Term Operational Impacts Project design, construction, and operation would be required to be completed consistent with the RH/SGRWQG EWMP, and in accordance with the City's Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance (Article VII, Chapter 8 of the AMC), Construction General Permit, MS4 Permit, WDRs, and the County of Los Angeles Low Impact Development Best Management Practices Handbook (LID Manual), with the goal of reducing the amount of pollutants in stormwater and urban runoff (City of Arcadia 2022). The LID Manual requires that BMPs be designed and implemented to manage and capture stormwater runoff. Based on the Geotechnical Investigation, prepared for the Project (see Appendix E-1) and the LID Report (Appendix G) it was determined that infiltration is feasible for stormwater treatment. Three drywells and one four -foot diameter primary settling chamber are proposed to be constructed on the Project site, located in the subterranean parking lot, which would be able to capture the required runoff volume and treat that volume as quickly as it enters the dryweII system. In addition to the drywells and settling chamber, the Project site and its immediate surrounding area contains existing stormwater infrastructure, including a storm drainpipe that runs under E. Huntington Drive directly south of the Project site, as well as curb- and side -opening catch basins. Thedrywells and settling chamber to be constructed as part of the Project would result in the treatment of the entire required volume for the Project site The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 46 FINDINGS OF FACT and the elimination of pollutant runoff up to the 85th percentile rain event. In accordance with all applicable state and local regulations, including General Plan Policy RS -9,3 Project source controls to improve water quality would be provided for impervious surfaces, such as parking areas, trash storage/waste areas, loading/unloading zones, driveways, and sidewalks. As a result of compliance with existing regulations, the Project would not violate any water quality standards or WDRs or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality duringthe long- term Project operations. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8-15 through 4.8-17). Decrease Groundwater Supplies or Interfere with Groundwater Recharge The existing Project site largely consists of impervious surfaces in the form of buildings and paved parking lots, with minimum landscaping features within the parking lots and around the existing buildings and site boundaries. The amount of impervious area on the Project site would remain relatively unchanged with implementation of the proposed Project. Additionally, the Project site is located above the Main Basin (Groundwater Basin 4-013), which has been designated as Very Low Priority with respect to establishment of a GSA and completion of a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (City of Arcadia 2021; SGMA 2022). (Potable water supplies required to supply the proposed Project are discussed in Section 4.15, Utilities and Service Systems.) Therefore, the Project would not substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the Project may impede sustainable groundwater management of a groundwater basin. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8-17 and 4.8-18). Alter Existing Drainage Pattern (Erosion, Surface Runoff, Exceed Capacity Drainage System, Impede or Redirect Flood Flows) The proposed Project site is fully developed in its existing condition and is located in a highly urbanized portion of the City, surrounded by developed properties. The Project would infiltrate stormwater in accordance with all applicable LID regulations and would continue to discharge into the existing storm drain system. Additionally, the total amount of impervious surface area would remain relatively unchanged and post -project runoff is anticipated to be reduced when compared to existing conditions. Therefore, the Project would not substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site, incl ud ing through the alteration of the course of a stream or river orthrough the addition of impervious surfaces such that downstream streams or rivers would be affected. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.8-18). Flood Hazard, Tsunami, or Seiche Zones No areas within the City are designated 100 -year flood zones (City of Arcadia 2010b). Accordingto FEMA, the Project site is located within Zone D, which is an area of undetermined flood risk (FEMA 2022). Additionally, the Project site is located within the Santa Anita Dam flood inundation zone. Approximately half of the City is located within this dam inundation zone and failure of the Santa Anita Dam would lead to inundation of a large area within the eastern section of the City. At capacity, floodwaters from the dam would travel down Santa Anita Canyon to about Orange Grove Avenue and then spread across the eastern half of the cityfrom Arcadia Wash, including onto portions of the Project site (DWR 2022). To comply with state dam safety regulations, the water level behind the dam is restricted to be no higher than an elevation of 1,230 feet amsl, to meet the California Division of Safety of Dams seismic safety requirements and to reduce the potential magnitude of downstream flooding (City of Arcadia 2010b). Furthermore, accordingto the General Plan Safety Element, flood hazards in the City are well addressed by existing storm control infrastructure (City of Arcadia 2010a). Moreover, the seismic retrofit of the Santa Anita Dam, which 3 As shown in Section 4.9.2 of the Draft EIR, General Plan Policy RS -4.9 requires LID strategies to be incorporated into new construction. The Derby Mixed -Use Project October 2023 11663.05 47 FINDINGS OF FACT was built in 1927, is scheduled to begin in Spring of 2023 to improve public safety and prevent flood damage to downstream communities (LACDPW 2022). The Project site is not located near a body of water or close to the ocean and as a result, is not susceptible to a tsunami or seiche (DOC 2022). Therefore, Project impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8-18 and 4.8-19). Conflict with Water Quality Control Plan or Sustainable Groundwater Management Plan The Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan is the WQMP for the Los Angeles Region (i.e., RWQCB Region 4), which includes the City (LARWQCB 2014). With compliance with applicable regulations, the Project does not include any facilities or land uses that could generate pollutants that could result in substantial water quality impacts. Compliance with the City's stormwater management requirements would protect the water quality of watercourses in a manner pursuant to and consistent with the Federal Clean Water Act, and pursuant to the NPDES Construction General Permit No. 2009-0009-DWQ. Restrictions in the City's Stormwater Management and Discharge Control Ordinance are applicable to both construction activities and operations. Additionally, compliance with the Construction General Permit issued by the SWRCB would require implementation of BMPs during construction to address the potential for pollutants from entering downstream waters. The Project would not conflict with or obstruct the Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan. With respect to groundwater management, a GSA has not been established for the Main San Gabriel Basin, as it is an adjudicated basin and is not considered a high priority basin. Therefore, a Groundwater Sustainability Plan is not required and has not been adopted for the Main Basin. Further, the Project would not substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge. As a result, the Project would not conflict with or obstruct a sustainable groundwater management plan. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8-19 and 4.8-20). Cumulative Effect Violate Water Quality Standards or Waste Discharge Requirements The proposed Project as well as other cumulative projects has the potential to increase the amount of pollutants in the area being released during both construction and operational phases. Typical pollutants of concern would be associated with the construction phase (e.g., sediment, fuels, litter), private vehicle use (e.g., any leakage of grease/oils), landscaping/grounds work (e.g., improper/excessive use of pesticides, herbicides, and/or fertilizers), and/or trash (e.g., due to improper waste disposal). The release of such pollutants; however, would be minimized through compliance with terms and conditions of the applicable NPDES permits, CALGreen Code, California Building Code, MS4 Permit, and all applicable AMC requirements, and ordinances of other authorities in the region, including the requirement to implement a SWPPP for development and redevelopment projects disturbing an area of one or more acre(s) for coverage under the Construction General Permit. All development within the Los Angeles River Watershed would be subject to the water quality standards outlined in the Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan and would comply with any established TMDLs. Therefore, with compliance with applicable water quality standards and implementation of appropriate storm water management measures, the Project would not result in a cumulatively significant impact to hydrology and water quality (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8-20 and 4.8-21). Decrease Groundwater Supplies or Interfere with Groundwater Recharge The Project site is located in the Rio Hondo subwatershed, which is an area that has largely been urbanized with impervious surfaces. While future development projects located in the Rio Hondo subwatershed, including those listed in Chapter 2 of this Draft EIR, may slightly increasethe amount of impervious surface in the area, this increase would be modest. As such, due to the existing developed nature of the Project site, its surrounding area, and the The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 48 FINDINGS OF FACT Rio Hondo subwatershed, cumulative impacts related to groundwater supplies would be less than significant. Because there is not an underlying cumulative impact that the Project could contribute to, cumulative impacts to groundwater would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.8-21). Alter Existing Drainage Pattern (Erosion, Surface Runoff, Exceed Capacity Drainage System, Impede or Redirect Flood Flows) All of the drainages and washes in the City, including the Santa Anita Wash and Arcadia Wash, are concrete -lined, meaning no alteration in the course of these channels would occur from future development. The proposed Project and its surroundings are located in a built-up, urbanized area that is mainly covered with impervious surfaces. As such, cumulative projects would not result in a large increase in the amount of impervious surface area. Because there is not an underlying cumulative impact that the Project could contribute to, cumulative impacts to altering the existing drainage pattern of the site (which is site specific) would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.8-22). Flood Hazard, Tsunami, orSeiche Zones In the event of dam failure, however, flood waters would impact much of the City. In accordance with the City's Floodplain Management Regulations, all new construction and major improvements are required to be adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement in the event of a flood; to be constructed with materials an utility equipment resistant to flood damage; and to have electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and other utility systems that prevent water from entering or accumulating within structures during floods. Compliance with these regulations would ensure the cumulative impact is less than significant. The Project site is not located in a coastal area that is subject to tsunami hazards. Therefore, because there is not an underlying cumulative impact that the Project could contribute to, cumulative impacts associated with a tsunami or seiche would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.8-22). Conflict with Water Quality Control Plan or Sustainable Groundwater Management Plan The Project and cumulative projects in the area would be subject to the Los Angeles RWQCB Basin Plan, which is the RWQCB Region (i.e., Region 4). Future projects would be required to comply with requirements related to the Construction General Permit and MS4 Permit (e.g., implementation of a SWPPP, stormwater BMPs, and LID design). With the compliance of applicable regulations, the proposed Project, as well as future cumulative projects, would reduce the potential for impairment of surface and groundwater resources. Further, pursuant to SGMA, both the Raymond Basin and the Main Basin are identified as very low priority basins and are exempt from the requirements of developing Groundwater Sustainability Plans. As such, cumulative impacts associated with the conflict or obstruction of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan that could impede sustainable management of a drainage basin or groundwater basin would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.8- 22 and 4.8-23). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on hydrology and water quality. Therefore, no mitigation is required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 49 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.3.11 Land Use and Planning Physically Divide an Established Community Under the existing condition, the Project site is developed and is not used as a connection or thoroughfare between established communities. Instead, connectivity within the area surrounding the Project site is facilitated via local roadways. The Project would involve reconfiguration of two existing access points along E. Huntington Drive and one access point along Gateway Drive to provide one full access driveway along E. Huntington Drive and two access points along Gateway Drive. Therefore, the number of access point for ingress/egress would not change under the Project. The Project does not include the construction of a new roadway that would impair mobility within the existing Project site or the surrounding area. As such, the Project would not impede movement within the Project site, within an established community, or from one established community to another. Therefore, impacts associated with the division of an established community would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.9-9). Conflict with an Applicable Land Use Plan, Policy, or Regulation Consistency with the Connect SoCai (SLAG 2020-2045 RTP/SCS) The Project would accommodate up to approximately 608 residents, which would be approximately 0.98 percent of the 2045 SCAG estimate for the City's projected total population. Additionally, it is likely that the proposed residential units would accommodate a combination of existing residents and new residents that either currently work within the City and/or new residents that would be hired as a result of projected employment generation within the City. The Project is replacing the commercial uses that exist on the site with improved commercial space under the proposed Project; therefore, there would be no net loss of commercial uses or employment. Furthermore, the Project is estimated to generate a net addition of 34 employees which could be filled by unemployed persons in the City or by unemployed persons in the County. The estimated 34 new jobs resulting from the Project would make up a small percentage of the overall expected growth in the City and would not exceed the SCAG employment projections or induce substantial unplanned population growth to fill these jobs. This indicates that the Project would not outpace regional infrastructure, since the SCAG RTP/SCS is used for local and regional planning purposes. The Project would implement the guiding principles, goals, and policies of SCAG's Connect SoCal as they relate to livability, economic prosperity, and sustainability through the development of a mixed-use residential development. The development of the Project within proximity to transit would thereby alleviate pressure on suburban and open space areas to develop. The Project would not conflict with any of the goals within SCAG's Connect SoCal. The Project would develop the Project site, accommodating up to approximately 608 residents and a net addition of 34 employees as compared to existing conditions. The Project site's vicinity is served by existing public transit such as the Metro A Line and various bus routes provided by Metro and Foothill Transit. The Project would not conflict with the applicable goals in the RTP/SCS adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect and the impact is less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.9-10 through 4.9-13). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 50 FINDINGS OF FACT City of Arcadia General Plan Consistency The Project would not conflict with applicable goals and policies of the General Plano. The Project requests the approval of a General Plan Amendment (GPA No. 22-01) to change the Land Use Designation from C -G to DMU with an accompanying Land Use map change. Upon approval of the proposed amendment, the Project would be brought into compliance with the General Plan Land Use Designation. The Project would be consistent with the General Plan for the purposes of avoiding or mitigating environmental effect (Draft EIR, pp. 4.9-13 through 4.9-47). City of Arcadia Municipal Code The Project requests a Zone Change (ZC No. 22-01) from C -G to DMU with H7 Height Overlay. The current C -G zone has a maximum allowable building height of 40 feet and does not allow for residential use. Thus, the zone change would be required to rezone the Project site to DMU, which would allow for the Project's proposed mixed-use development. The proposed Zone Change would also include an H7 Special Height Overlay, pursuant to Section 9102.11.040 of the City's Development Code (Development Code) (AMC, Chapter 1, Article IX, Section 9101 et seq.) The H7 Special Height Overlay would increase the maximum allowable building height on the Project site to 75 feet, thus allowing for the proposed six -story mixed-use building, which would have an overall maximum height of 71 feet, includinga 3 -foot parapet. Upon approval of the proposed zoningchange, the Project would be consistent with the Arcadia Municipal Development Code for the purposes of avoiding or mitigating environmental effect. Under the proposed DMU zoning, the Project site would have an allowable base density of 80 dwelling units per acre, allowingfor a total of 178 dwelling units on the 2.23 -acre site. The Project proposes to use a 5 percent density bonus under the California Density Bonus Law (California Government Code Sections 65915 - 65918) to increase the number of housing units. In accordance with Section 9103.15 (Density Bonuses for Affordable and Senior Housing) of the Development Code, the Project is required to complete an application for Site Plan and Design Review pursuant to Section 9107.19 (Site Plan and Design Review) of the Development Code. Through the application process, the City would thoroughly review all plans for the Project to ensure compliance with the AMC, and other relevant plans, policies, and regulations. Upon approval of these discretionary land -use entitlements, less than significant impacts would occur related to land use regulations adopted for the purposes of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect (Draft EIR, p. 4.9-48). Cumulative Effects Physically Divide an Established Community The Project includes a Lot Line Adjustment which would merge two existing parcels into one legal parcel. In addition, the Project would involve reconfiguration of two existing access points along E. Huntington Drive and one access point along Gateway Drive to provide one full access driveway along E. Huntington Drive and two access points along Gateway Drive. Therefore, the number of access point for ingress/egress would not change under the Project. Given the above, the Project, in combination with the cumulative projects, would be less than significant (Draft EIR< p. 4.9-49). 4 Note: Table 4.9-2 contains General Plan goals and polices that may be generally related to certain Project components and potential CEQA issues. However, several policies listed in Table 4.9-2 are marked as "Not Applicable" as they do not fall under the responsibility of the Project proponent to implement. These policies are included in Table 4.9-2 to provide context for other General Plan goals and policies. The Derby Mixed -Use PrpJect _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 51 FINDINGS OF FACT Conflict with an Applicable Land Use Plan, Policy, or Regulation Given the built -out conditions of the greater Los Angeles Metropolitan region, including the Project site, cumulative development would likely convert existing underutilized properties in the Project site's area to revitalized higher - density developments to respond to the need for housing, sources of employment, and associated retail land uses. The Project would benefit the surrounding community by replacing underutilized properties; add residential uses to a job -rich community; and improve local and regional access to the regional transportation network. Furthermore, by providing additional housing and employment in close proximity to transit, the Project would assist the City and region in achieving short- and long-term planning goals and objectives related to reducing urban sprawl, efficiently using existing infrastructure, reducing regional congestion, and improving air quality through the reduction of VMT. This would not conflict with SCAG and other regional policies for promoting more intense land uses adjacent to transit stations and job centers. Generally, land use conflicts would be related to noise, traffic, air quality, and hazards/human health and safety issues, which are discussed in the relevant sections of the Draft EIR. Land use conflicts are also typically site- specific and not cumulative in nature; in other words, despite the number of cumulative projects in a given area, they would not necessarily compound to create cumulative land use conflicts. Further, all cumulative projects in the City would be subject to the same local development standards, such as those identified in the City's Development Code, as the Project. Therefore, cumulative impacts related to land use and planning would be less than significant. No mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.9-49 and 4.9-50). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on land use and planning; therefore, no mitigation is required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.12 Mineral Resources There are no oil wells or oil/mineral extraction activities on the Project site (CaIGEM 2022). Current on-site land uses do not allow for oil/mineral extraction. According to the Department of Conservation's California Geological Survey, the City is within a Mineral Resources Zone -2 area, which is classified as an area or areas where "adequate information indicates that significant mineral deposits are present, or where it is judged that a high likelihood for their presence exists" (DOC 2010). Ordinarily, classification of a mineral deposit as MRZ-2 would constitute adequate evidence that an area contains significant mineral deposit; thus, the Project could result in the loss of mineral resources of known importance to the state (DOC 2002). However, in recognition of the fact that much of the MRZ-2 designated lands within the San -Gabriel Valley Production -Consumption Region have become highly urbanized, and therefore incompatible with mineral extraction enterprises, the zone has been further designated into discreet Sections (DOC 2014). The Project site is not located in a Section currently identified as being suitable for mineral extraction (DOC 2014). As the site is not considered suitable for mineral extraction, and as there are no oil wells or oil extraction activities on the site, Project impacts associated with mineral resources would not occur (Draft EIR, p. 5-12). The Derby Mixed_ -Use Project _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 52 FINDINGS OF FACT Finding Appendix B of the Notice of Preparation for the Project found no potential for significant impacts to mineral resources; therefore, mineral resources were not addressed in the Draft EIR. No mitigation would be required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.13 Noise Generation of a Substantial Temporary or Permanent Increase in Ambient Noise Levels Operational Noise Off -Site Traffic Noise The predicted change in roadwaytraffic noise would be less than 2-3 dBA which is considered a less -than -significant impact. Additionally, the added Project traffic contribution would not cause a traffic noise level greater than 65 dBA CNEL where the existing traffic noise level is already at or exceeds that level. In light of these predicted findings, Project -attributed traffic would cause increases in roadway volumes or trips on 2nd Avenue, E. Huntington Drive, Gateway Drive, and Fifth Avenue, but not at levels expected to yield significant impacts. Therefore, noise associated with traffic would be a less -than -significant impact (Draft EIR, pp. 4.10-19 and 4.10-20). Rooftop Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Noise Predicted levels range between 31 to 44 dBA hourly Leq, which is below the City's noise standard of 50 dBA Leq for commercial properties. Aggregate noise emission from continuously operating outdoor -exposed rooftop HVAC units is expected to be below the City's exterior noise threshold of 60 dBA Leq for commercial land uses. Therefore, noise associated with stationary operations related to rooftop HVAC equipment would be considered a less -than - significant impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-20). Excessive Groundborne Vibration or Groundborne Noise Levels The predicted 0.29 ips PPV for the on-site vibration -generating equipment is less than the Caltrans vibration threshold of 0.5 ips PPV for building damage risk to newer residential structures and would therefore be considered a less -than - significant impact. With respect to building occupants within these offsite structures, application of a -5 dB coupling loss adjustment results in a reduced vibration velocity magnitude of 0.16 ips PPV, which would be less than the Caltrans annoyance standard of 0.2 ips PPV. Therefore, groundborne vibration would be considered a less -than - significant impact (Draft EIR, pp: 4.10-20 and 4.10-21). Expose People Residing or Working in Airport Land Use Plan to Excessive Noise Levels The San Gabriel Valley Airport (a.k.a., EI Monte Airport) is located approximately 3.3 miles south of the Project site. At this distance, the Project site is well beyond the 65 dBA CNEL noise contour associated with existing aviation noise from operations at this closest airport (County of Los Angeles 2022). Therefore, there would be no impact to Project onsite employees or future residents with respect to exposure to aviation noise (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-21). The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 53 FINDINGS OF FACT Cumulative Effects Temporary/Periodic Increases in Ambient Noise Levels Noise in Excess of Standards Implementation of the Project as well as unrelated development projects within its vicinity would all be individually subject to applicable noise standards (descriptions of the standards applicable within the City are described throughout this section). On this basis, and because noise impacts of the Project with respect to relevant standards would be less than significant with mitigation, the Project would not contribute to cumulative exceedances of noise standards, and its incremental effect would be a less -than -significant impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-22). Temporary/Periodic Increases in Ambient Noise Levels A few projects are approved and thus may have future construction periods that could potentially overlap that of the Project. However, even if this schedule overlap were to occur, these other projects within the cities of Arcadia and Monrovia are over 700 feet away from noise -sensitive receptors studied for the Project. Due to the decrease in noise levels with distance and the presence of physical barriers (i.e., intervening buildings and topography), noise due to construction of other cumulative projects would be no more than a barely perceptible difference (i.e., up to a 3 dBA change). Based on the cumulative project list provided by the City for the Project, there are no construction projects that would potentially contribute construction noise that would, in combination with the Project, result in cumulative impacts. Thus, cumulative impacts associated with temporary increases in ambient noise levels would be considered less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-22). Permanent Increase in Ambient Noise Levels Off -Site Traffic Predicted noise increases attributed to Project -added volumes or trips to the volumes of the existing roadway network result in less than significant impacts. Future traffic conditions, such as duringthe "horizon" year, are likely to exhibit greater volumes of traffic along the same roadways adjoining the Project. This means that a future year traffic noise setting without the Project traffic added, but including cumulative contribution from other projects, would result in a higher noise level against which a horizon -plus -Project case would be compared. Since the Project traffic contribution would be the same, its additive effect to the future traffic volumes would be smaller; hence, the increase in traffic noise level would be less than the allowable dB increase of 3 dB, and would have a less -than - significant cumulative traffic noise (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-23). Stationary Sources Noise from operation of stationary mechanical equipment added to the outdoor ambient sound environment as a result of Project implementation would include permanent on-site noise sources (e.g., rooftop HVAC equipment), a cumulative increase in the outdoor ambientsound environment due to such operation of Project onsite noise sources and comparable sound sources from other unrelated future projects could occur, but only if distances to a common receptor position were sufficiently short. The nearest unrelated project being at least 700 feet away from a noise - sensitive receptor studied for the Project, the attenuated noise from the other project would not make a cumulatively meaningful contribution to the increase in outdoor ambient sound environment attributed to the Project. Hence, cumulative impacts to outdoor ambient noise levels resulting from Project stationary sources would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-23). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 54 FINDINGS OF FACT Vibration Ground borne vibration attenuates very rapidly with distance. At a distance of at least 700 feet, the apparent nearest distance of an unrelated projects, the predicted vibration level would be less than 0.0006 ips PPV. Due to potentially concurrent construction activities, the frequency of vibration occurrences may increase in quantity at a common receptor position; but at such a low magnitude, and because such vibrations are frequency -dependent and therefore unlikely to combine additively, this predicted PPV from construction of an unrelated project will not cause a cumulatively considerable effect at the studied receptor. For these reasons, such cumulative construction vibration impact would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-23). Expose People Residing or Working in Airport Land Use Plan to Excessive Noise Levels Neither the Project nor any of the cumulative list projects is located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or within 2 miles of a public airport. The 60-65 dBA CNEL noise contour associated with the closest public airport (San Gabriel Valley Airport, located approximately 3 miles south of the cumulative list projects) does not extend into the vicinity; therefore, there would be no cumulative impact. The Project would not result in a cumulatively considerable impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.10-24). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on noise as it relates to operational noise, groundborne vibration, exposing people residing or working within an airport land use plan to excessive noise levels, and cumulative noise impacts; therefore, no mitigation is required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.14 Population and Housing Induce Substantial Population Growth Construction The Project involves fairly common construction requirements that would not require a highly specialized labor force to permanently relocate from other regions. Different Project construction activities require specific skill sets for a much shorter duration than the overall construction schedule. Because most construction workers would not be needed continuously and would only be needed for various components of the Project (e.g., drywall installers, electricians, plumbers, etc.), it is reasonable to assume that most workers/crews would work at the Project site on a temporary basis only, and thus, are not likely to relocate their households as a consequence of the construction job opportunities presented by the Project. Any changes in the City or regional population, housing, or employment due to short-term construction activities would result in a less -than -significant impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.11-11). Operation Implementation of the Project would require a General Plan Amendment (No. GPA 22-01) to change the land use designation from Commercial to Downtown Mixed Use; and a Zone Change (No. ZC 22-01) to rezone the Project site from General Commercial (GC) to Downtown Mixed Use (DMU). These proposed changes would thereby enable future residential development. As such, the Project would directly result in the building of new housing where housing currently does not exist (Draft EIR, p. 4.11-11). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 55 FINDINGS OF FACT Population Projections The Project would be considered growth -accommodating rather than growth -inducing in that the Project's 214 new residential units would accommodate up to 608 residents, which are anticipated to be a mix of current and future residents to the City. However, even if all 608 residents were new to the City, the Project would still be within the overall population growth projections included in the General Plan and Connect SoCal. Because the Project would support the General Plan's and SCAG's goals and strategies for growth in the region and the state's goals for increasing the housing stock for all income groups and improve the City's job/housing balance, the Project would not induce substantial unplanned population growth and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.11-11 and 4.11-12). lovment Proiectio With the occupancy of the Project, the number of jobs in the City would increase by approximately 34 positions, which could be filled by unemployed persons in the City or the County. The estimated 34 new jobs resulting from the Project would make up a small percentage of the overall expected growth in the City and would not exceed the SCAG employment projections or induce substantial unplanned population growth to fill these jobs. Therefore, the impact is less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.11-12 and 4.11-13). Housing Projections Analysis The City's fair share RHNA allocation for the current housing cycle is 3,214 units. This indicates that between the years 2021 to 2029, the City needs to accommodate at least 3,214 housing units, consisting of a variety of housing types to accommodate extremely low, very low, low, moderate, and above moderate -income households to keep pace with housing demand (Draft EIR, p. 4.11-13). The City's recently approved Housing Element has various implementation actions, including rezonings and upzonings of select properties throughout the City to accommodate the City's anticipated housing need (i.e., the Regional Housing Needs Assessment [RHNA] allocation) for the current 2021 through 2029 housing cycle. Part of the City's strategy to satisfy the state -mandated RHNA allocation includes rezoning select properties from C -G to DMU with a Height Overlay of H7 (maximum height of 75 feet). The Project site is identified in the Housing Element as a subject property for rezoning to DMU (Draft EIR, p. 2-4). The Project would create new housing and would include 205 market rate units and nine (9) very -low-income affordable units for seniors. The proposed very -low-income units would satisfy a portion of the City's mandated RHNA allocation. As such, the Project's 214 new residential units would assist the City in meeting the mandated RHNA allocation and would be consistent with and supportive of the City's Housing Element projections for new residential units within the City. The Project would not exceed SCAG or the City's housing projections or induce substantial unplanned population growth. Therefore, the impact is less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.11-14). Displace Substantial Numbers of Existing Housing or People The Project site is developed with two commercial buildings as well as surface parking. No housing units are located on the Project site. Thus, Project implementation would not require demolition of existing housingor displace people or housing. The Project would not displace any existing residents or housing units requiring construction of replacement housing; thus, there would be no impact (Draft EIR, p. 4.11-15). Cumulative Effect The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 56 FINDINGS OF FACT Induce Substantial Population Growth Assuming 2.84 persons per household, the Project's residential units would accommodate up to 608 residents. Additionally, the Project is estimated to result in a net addition of 34 employees as compared to under existing conditions. A total of 778 units are proposed within the City limits. In addition to the Project's proposed 214 units, the cumulative total of housing units would be estimated at 992 new units5. Given that the City's Housing Element is currently undergoing an update in accordance with state law and at the time of this Draft EIR's production, state and regional housing and population projections are used for analysis comparison. The California Department of Finance estimates 20,511 housing units exist within the City in 2020. Moreover, SCAG estimates a total of 22,400 new units would be built by 2045. As such, the addition of 992 units would result in 21,503 new units in the City once the Project is operational in 2025. Therefore, the estimated household growth is within the state and regional growth projections. Furthermore, the proposed housing growth generated by the Project would further the goals and strategies of SCAG and the City's General Plan by providing housing in an urban setting in close proximity to transit and Downtown, while contributing to a more balanced jobs -housing community. Although, the Project's residential population would not exceed SCAG's population projections, it can also be assumed that many of the residential units would accommodate workers within the City which could reduce the total amount of vehicle miles traveled by providing housing in proximity to employment centers. Cumulative population growth could be assumed usingthe previously identified 2.84 persons per household. Thus, the cumulative projects could result in approximately 2,210 persons6. In addition to proposed population growth generated by the Project (608 residents), a total of 2,818 persons7 is anticipated could be generated by 2025. Therefore, the expected population growth of that the cumulative projects combined with the Project would be captured within the overall population growth projections included in the Connect SoCal of 5,519 City residents between 2020 and 2045. Furthermore, 59,4998 persons are estimated at build out of both the cumulative projects and the Project, which is within SCAG's projected population growth of 62,200 persons for the City by 2045. Given the above, it is not anticipated that the Project, in combination with other past, present or future foreseeable projects, would create a cumulatively considerable impact to population, housing or employment. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.11-16 and 4.11-17). Displace Substantial Numbers of Existing Housing or People The Project site is developed with two commercial buildings as well as surface parking. No housing units are located on the Project site. Thus, the Project would not displace people or housing. Therefore, cumulative impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.11-17). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on population and housing related to inducing growth during construction and displacing a substantial number of people or housing; therefore, no mitigation is required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 5 778 + 214 = 992 6 Total of 778 units x 2.84 persons per household = 2,210 persons 7 608 + 2,210 = 2,818 8 56,681 (latest US Census population) + 2,818 (cumulative added population for Project and relevant projects) = 59,499 The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 57 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.3.15 Public Services and Recreation Fire Protection Construction Construction activities associated with the proposed Project may temporarily increase demand for fire protection and emergency medical services. Construction activities associated with the proposed Project would not be considered high-risk, and the AFD is equipped and prepared to deal with construction -related incidents, should they occur. Due to compliance with applicable codes and fire safety standards, Project construction would not require a new fire station or expansion of Station 105 to accommodate additional firefighters or equipment in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for fire protection. Therefore, impacts are considered less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-13). Operation The need for new or expanded fire protection facilities/structures/buildings is associated with a substantial increase in population, new development, and/or fire activity, such as wildfire hazards. The proposed Project would result in a net gain of approximately 34 employees (as compared to exiting conditions)9 and 608 new residents.lo The proposed Project would not exceed the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG's) projections for growth in the region. The Project site is currently served by three existingfire stations (Stations 105,106, and 107) with Station 105 located less than a mile from the site. The AFD stated that as the City continues to develop high density projects, call volume for fire services will continue to increase, which would result in longer response times. With the addition of the proposed Project, services could be incrementally impacted; however the AFD has indicated that the Project would not require the construction of new or expansion of existing fire stations to accommodate new firefighters or equipment, and no mitigation is required (Appendix 1-1 of the. Draft EIR). Further, as a COA the Project applicant would be required to pay a fair share contribution to the City's traffic mitigation system for affected intersections to make improvements in reducing response times (Appendix 1-1). The proposed Project would not require the construction of new or expansion of existing fire stations resulting in substantial adverse physical impacts in order to maintain acceptable service ratios and response times. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.12- 13 through 4.12-15). Police Protection Construction During construction, the Project applicant or its construction contractor would implement temporary security features including security fencing, lighting, and a locked entry. These features would reduce the need for police 9 Under existing conditions, the Project site supports 53 employees, 49 of which are employed at The Derby restaurant and 4 are employed in on-site valet and parking services. Under the proposed Project, the site would support a total of 87 jobs; The Derby's new restaurant space would support 67 employees, the cafe space would support four employees, and the complementary restaurant space would support 10 employees. Additionally, the proposed leasing office would support 2 employees and the on-site valet services would continue to support 4 employees. A "square feet per employee" generation factor from SCAG was used to estimate projected employment for the cafe and complementary restaurant space. All other existing and projected employment data was provided by the Project applicant. 10 This estimated number of new residents conservatively assumes full occupancy of all units (214 new housing units x 2.84 persons per household = 608 Project residents). The DerVMixed-Use Project _ _ 11663.0_5 October 2023 58 FINDINGS OF FACT protection services during the Project's construction phase. Potential short-term construction impacts to police services would not result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered police protection facilities, and impacts would be less than significant. Operation The Project site is currently served by the APD headquarters located at 250 West Huntington Drive. In recent correspondence with APD regarding the Project, APD did not indicate that new facilities and/or physically altered facilities would be required to continue to provide acceptable service to the City under Project conditions (Appendix 1-2 of the Draft EIR). Payment of development fees by the Project applicant would be used to offset the costs of increased personnel or equipment that could be required to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, and other performance objectives. For these reasons, the proposed Project would not result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered police protection facilities and potential impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-15). Schools The Project's 214 dwelling units would generate approximately 92 new students as calculated using ASD student generation rates. This breaks down to approximately 39 elementary age students, 23 middle school, and 30 high school students. As previously discussed, the three schools that would primarily serve the Project are Camino Grove Elementary School, Dana Middle School, and Arcadia High School. According to AUSD, Camino Grove Elementary School has a current enrollment of 666 students and a capacity of 775, Dana Middle School has a current enrollment of 622 with a capacity of 918, and Arcadia High School has a current enrollment of 3,022 with a capacity of 3,672. As such, the proposed Project would not exceed the capacity of the existing school facilities, and AUSD would continue to provide an adequate level of service to accommodate the Project. Pursuant to SB 50, the Project applicant would be required to pay development fees to AUSD prior to issuance of the Project's building permit. Therefore, with the payment of the applicable school fees, the Project would not result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered schools, or the need for new or physically altered schools, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts to maintain acceptable service ratios, or other performance objectives for schools. As such, impacts on schools would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-16). Parks In order to address the additional demand on recreational facilities within the City, the proposed Project would be subject to the City's Council Resolution 6602, Park Facilities Impact Fee (Section 9105.15.040 of the City's Development Code), which requires new development projects to pay impact fees, which would support park improvements as well as fund capital costs for new and existing recreational infrastructure. Pursuant to the Park Facilities Impact Fee, the Project applicant would be required to pay its fair share of impact fees based on the fee category and adopted impact fee rates. While the ARCSD indicates that new park facilities would be required to meet the City's performance standards, the Project's mitigation fees paid to the City would fairly compensate for the Project's associated increase in demand or use of park facilities. Further, the Project site includes on-site recreational amenities that would provide an alternative to off-site public parks and recreational facilities, allowing Project residents to recreate on the Project site which would help reduce demand on for off-site public parks and recreational facilities. Therefore, with payment of required impact fees as mandated by the City's Development Code, impacts associated with the need for new or expanded park facilities would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.12-16 and 4.12-17). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 59 FINDINGS OF FACT Other Public Facilities (Libraries) The proposed Project is a mixed-use development project that would contribute to the tax revenues for the City, thereby contributing to potential funding sources for library services. The APL indicated that the Project would not result in the need to provide any new library facilities and/or physically altered facilities to maintain performance objectives of the Arcadia Public Library (Appendix 1-5). Therefore, impacts to libraries and other public facilities associated with the need for new or expanded facilities would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-17). Increase in the Use of an Existing Neighborhood, Regional Park, or Recreational Facility Pursuant to Section 9105.15.040 of the City's Development Code, the Project applicant would be required to pay its fair share of park impact fees based on the fee category and adopted fee rates, currently set at $3.73 per square foot for multifamily developments. While the ARCSD indicates that new park facilities would be required to meet the City's performance standards, the Project's mitigation fees paid to the City would fairly compensate for the Project's increase in demand or use of park facilities (Appendix 1-4). With payment of the required development impact fees related to parks and recreation in combination with provision of on-site recreational facilities, the Project would meet the City's anticipated demand for neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities. Impacts to neighborhood and regional parks would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-18). Inclusion of or Requirement for Construction/Expansion of Recreational Facilities The Project would be subject to the City's Park Facilities Impact Fee, which requires new development projects pay impact fees to support park improvements as well as fund capital costs for other new and existing infrastructures. Pursuant to the City's Impact Fee, the project applicant would pay its fair share based on the fee category and adopted fee rates, currentlysetat $3.73 persquare foot. Project implementation would not requirethe construction or expansion of new recreational facilities in the City to accommodate Project demand, and impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-18). Cumulative Effects Fire Protection Both the Project and cumulative projects would also be subject to the requirements of the fire code standards. This would be ensured through the plan check process and fire review prior to the issuance of building permits for the Project and cumulative projects. Furthermore, the Project and cumulative projects would coordinate with the Arcadia Fire Department Fire Prevention Division to ensure fire flow requirements are met and any required upgrades to the existing water distribution system are addressed for each individual project. As determined by AFD, existing fire protection facilities are sufficient to meet the proposed Project (Appendix 1-1). Based on the above considerations, the Project's contribution to cumulative impacts to fire protection services would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-19). Police Protection As with the proposed Project, the applicants of the cumulative projects would be required to incorporate appropriate safety features into the design and construction of their respective projects to minimize the potential for crime and to maximize safety, ultimately minimizing the need for police protection services. In addition, the cumulative projects would contribute to funding police protection services or new facilities through development impact fees. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 60 FINDINGS OF FACT Based on the above considerations, the Project's contribution to cumulative impacts to police protection services would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-20). Schools The proposed Project itself, as determined byAUSD would not result in significant impacts on services, necessitating the construction of new or physically altered school facilities (Appendix 1-3). While most cumulative projects require discretionary actions, they would incrementally increase the need for school facilities. However, Education Code Section 17620 allows school districts to assess fees on new residential and commercial construction within their respective boundaries. Pursuant to California Government Code Section 65995, the payment of these fees by a developer serves to fully mitigate all potential project impacts on school facilities from implementation of a project to less -than -significant levels. Sections 65996(a) and (b) state that such fees collected by school districts provide full and complete school facilities mitigation under CEQA. Therefore, the Project's increase in the demand for school facilities and services would not be considerable resulting in a less than significant cumulative impact due to the payment of development impact fees (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-20). Parks As previously discussed, while the Project would increase the demand for local and regional parks, this increase would be modest, and would not result in a significant impact. The Project applicant would be required to pay its fair share of impact fees to ensure the City would be able to maintain an acceptable level of service. Additionally, cumulative projects would be required to demonstrate compliance with CEQA prior to project approval, and existing federal, state, and local regulations related to parks and recreational facilities. Cumulative projects would also be required to pay a Park Facilities Impact Feeto mitigate their contribution tothe demand for local and regional parks. Therefore, the Project would not result in a cumulatively considerable contribution to a significant cumulative impact to park facilities and the impact is less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.12-20 and 4.12-21). Other Public Facilities (Libraries) Future cumulative development would generate new tax revenues and would be subject to the City's development impact fees, which act as funding sources for City libraries. The proposed Project itself, as determined by the APL, would not result in new physical facilities (Appendix 1-5). The Project and cumulative projects would be required to fund their fair share of an established fee program designed to alleviate the cumulative impact. These revenues would help offset the increase in demand for library services as a result of the Project. Therefore, the Project's contribution to cumulative impacts to library services would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-21). Increase in the Use of an Existing Neighborhood, Regional Park, or Recreational Facility Cumulative projects would be required to demonstrate compliance with CEQA prior to Project approval and would also be subject to Park Facilities Impact Fees to offset their contribution to the demand for park facilities. Therefore, cumulative impacts to existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities, such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated, would be less than significant and would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.12-21). Inclusion of or Requirement for Construction/Expansion of Recreational Facilities The Project includes the construction of on-site recreational facilities, which would decrease the Project's impacts on existing local and regional parks. The Project applicant would also be required to pay a Park Facilities Impact The Derby Mixed -Use Proiect 11663.05 October 2023 61 FINDINGS OF FACT Fee to ensure existing recreational facilities would be able to continue to provide an acceptable level of service. Cumulative projects may have a similar impact, including increasing the demand for existing recreational facilities and the construction of on-site recreational amenities. These cumulative projects, however, would be required to demonstrate compliance with CEQA prior to project approval, and existing federal, state, and local regulations related to parks and recreational facilities. Cumulative projects would also be subject to similar park impact fees, which would allow existing park facilities to continue to provide adequate service. Therefore, cumulative impacts regarding the construction or expansion of recreational facilities would be less than significant and the Project's contribution would not be considerable resulting in a less than significant impact (Draft EIR, pp. 4.12-21 and 4.12- 22). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on police and fire protection services, parks, schools, and other public facilities as well as impacts related to recreation; therefore, no mitigation is required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.16 Transportation Conflict with Circulation System Plan, Ordinance, or Policy RTP/SCS Consistency Analysis The Project would facilitate a more balanced jobs -housing profile and once constructed, would continue to support regional economic development. In addition, the Project site's vicinity is served by existing public transit including Metro Routes 179 and 287 and the Metro A Line; Foothill Transit Line 187; and Arcadia Transit's Green and Red Lines. Project development would increase transit accessibility of jobs and services within the Project site's vicinity and would bring residential development to the City's Downtown, which contains a mix of office and commercial development uses, thereby reducing travel demands for people and the resulting VMT. For these reasons, the proposed Project would not conflict with the applicable goals in the RTP/SCS (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-9). City of Arcadia General Plan Consistency The Project would be consistent with the applicable goals and policies of the City's General Plan. The Project would not hinderthe City's abilityto provide an efficient roadwaysystem thatserves all transportation modes and balances the roadway system with planned land uses. The Project would support City's goals CI -1 through CI -4, and their related policies, to provide an efficient roadway system that supports all transportation modes and balances the roadway system with planned land uses, maximize operational efficiency of the street system, enhances local and regional transit service, and provide connected, balanced, and integrated bicycle and pedestrian networks that provide viable alternatives to use of the car. The Project would provide a connected, balanced, and integrated bicycle and pedestrian network by developinga mixed-use projectthat promotes pedestrian connectivity and safety with the City's Downtown and includes on-site improvements to facilitate circulation and community cohesion within the existing environment. Specific site improvements are discussed below (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-9). Transit, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Facilities The proposed Project would support transit, bicycle, and pedestrian circulation throughout the Project site and the surrounding environment and would not conflict with any City plans or policies regarding existing or proposed transit, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities in the study area. The Project would include on-site bicycle parking and enclosed The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 62 FINDINGS OF FACT bicycle storage areas for residents as well as on-site improvements to support pedestrian connectivity with the City's Downtown and nearby Arcadia Metro A Line Station. All pedestrian areas within the Project site would meet American Disability Act (ADA) requirements and adhere to City design guidelines. Bicyclist and pedestrian safety would be maintained at existing levels in the area. Additionally, the Project would not conflict with or result in the change of bus routes in the study area; therefore, the Project would not severely delay, impact, or reduce the service level of transit in the area. Therefore, the Project would not adversely affect, in a manner that conflicts with, an applicable program, plan, ordinance, or policy, addressing the performance of the circulation system, including public transit, roadway, bicycle or pedestrian facilities. Impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-9). Conflict with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 (b) CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b) focuses on VMT for determining the significance of transportation impacts. The following VMT analysis is based on the City of Arcadia Transportation Study Guidelines for Vehicle Miles Traveled and Level of Service Assessment (City of Arcadia 2020) and OPR's Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA (OPR 2018). As shown in the analysis below, the Project would be screened from a project -level analysis and no impacts due to conflicts or inconsistencies with Section 15064.3(b) are presumed, and impacts would be less than significant. Screening Criteria The City's Guidelines provide three types of VMT screening that can be applied to the proposed Project to screen from a project -level VMT assessment. As shown in Appendix J, the proposed Project is located within a TPA and therefore meets this screening this criterium (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-10). The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) screening tool was used to determine whether or not the proposed Project would be located in a low VMT-generating area. The TAZ would be 28.52% below the subarea threshold for VMT per Capita, which would meet the required baseline screening criteria established in the City's guidelines. As such, the proposed Project can be screened out using this criterion (Draft EIR, pp. 4.13-10 and 4.13-11). Therefore, a VMT analysis is not required and impacts to VMT would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-11). Cumulative Effects Plan, Program, Ordinance, or Policy Addressing Circulation The proposed Project is consistent with the following plans addressingthe circulation system and would not conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities under cumulative conditions: • SCAG 2020-20405 RTP/SCS - the proposed Project's proximity to existing public transit such as various bus routes and the Metro A Line would increase transit accessibility of jobs and services, support use of transit, and encourage sustainable land use patterns by redeveloping areas near accessible transit. • City of Arcadia General Plan - approval of the proposed Project would ensure the proposed uses for the Project site are consistent with the General Plan. • Metro Long Range Transportation Plan - Los Angeles Countyvoters approved Measure M, a half -cent sales tax increase for transportation, which has allowed Metro to develop projects to improve the existing transportation system. Metro developed the 2020 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), which provides the funding plan and policies to provide a balanced comprehensive approach that considers the mobility needs of everyone in LA County and matches those access needs with Metro's expected resources to The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 63 FINDINGS OF FACT transform the County's transportation future (Metro 2020). Additionally, the 2014 Short Range Transportation Plan (SRTP) identifies projects and programs that will be implemented in accordance with the Project priorities and funding schedules through 2025 (Metro 2014). Metro is in the process of updating the SUP to advance the 2020 LRTP. It is recognized that with these plans in place, Metro will continue to maintain and expand regional transit service to accommodate cumulative demand in the region. Although the Project (and other related projects) would cumulatively add transit ridership, Metro would continue to maintain and expand regional transit service to accommodate cumulative demand in the region; therefore, cumulative impacts on public transit would be less than significant. Therefore, cumulative impacts related to a program, plan, ordinance, or policy related to addressing the circulation system would be less than significant. Impacts related to conflicts with transit, bicycle or pedestrian transportation would be identical to the impacts described in the Project -specific impacts section; therefore, they are not repeated in the cumulative impacts evaluation. The Project would not make a cumulatively considerable contribution to transit, bicycle or pedestrian access; therefore, all impacts would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.13-14 and 4.13-15). CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3(b) The Project is located within a low VMT generating area and would be screened from a project -level VMT analysis. Therefore, a cumulative analysis is also not required (Draft EIR, p. 4.13-15). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on transportation as it relates to conflict with circulation system plan, ordinance, or policy; conflict with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 (b); and cumulative impacts. Therefore, no mitigation is required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.17 Tribal Cultural Resources Change in a State listed or Eligible Tribal Cultural Resource Two Native American tribes (the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation [Kizh Nation] and the Gabrielino Tongva Tribe) requested to be notified of AB -52 -eligible projects under the City's jurisdiction. Consultation with the Kizh Nation occurred on January 31, 2023 and has been concluded. Visual observation of the current conditions within the proposed Project site indicate that all areas have been disturbed as a result of urban development. Neitherthe CHRIS records search northe pedestrian survey was able to identify any archaeological resources within the Project site. However, the Kizh Nation provided tribal archival documentation to the City that demonstrates the cultural sensitivity of the area to the Tribe. Consultation under SB 18 did not identify any specific, known TCRs within the Project site. MM -CUL -1 has been provided to ensure that potential impacts related to inadvertent discovery of archaeological resources would be less than significant. In the event of a discovery of human remains on the Project site during construction activities, the MLD would be assigned by the NAHC through the mandated process under Public Resources Code (PRC) section 5097.98 and other regulatory conditions. Additional mitigation measures have been incorporated to ensure anticipatory measures are taken in the event that unknown TCRs are inadvertently encountered during Project construction -related earthwork activities. These mitigation measures are outlined in MM-TCR-lthrough MM -TCR -3 intended to be implemented in concert with MM -CUL -1 from Section 4.3, The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 64 FINDINGS OF FACT Cultural Resources, of this Draft EIR. Therefore, with implementation of MM -TCR -1 through MM -TCR -3, the impact regarding a potential substantial adverse change in the significance of a TCR would be less than significant with mitigation (Draft EIR, pp. 4.14-11 and 4.14-12). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on tribal cultural resources as it relates to impacts to any listed resource or a resource eligible for listing. Therefore, no mitigation is required, and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. 2.3.18 Utilities and Service Systems Require or Result in the Relocation or Construction of New or Expanded Water, Wastewater Treatment, Stormwater Drainage, Electric Power, Natural Gas, or Telecommunications Facilities Water Conveyance The Project's proposed water infrastructure would include new water meters at the Project site building and new lateral pipeline connections from the proposed buildingto the existing 12 -inch water main pipeline in Gateway Drive to provide domestic water, fire water and irrigation water to the Project site.. Possible connections may be required to water mains in Huntington Dr. for additional fire hydrants as required for the project. The construction of new lateral pipeline connections beneath Gateway Drive would be accommodated within the construction assumptions included in the construction -related impact analyses throughout this Draft EIR and no new or more significant impacts would occur. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.15-20 and 4.15-21). Stormwater Drainage The Project would incorporate low impact development features, including drywells and a settling chamber, which would contribute a reduction in stormwater runoff under Project conditions. As the Project would not substantially modify the existing on-site drainage patterns, would incorporate low impact development features, and would be required to comply with applicable regulatory requirements, the Project would not contribute a substantial amount of new stormwater runoff relative to existing conditions. Thus, the Project would not require the construction or expansion of off-site stormwater drainage facilities. Therefore, impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation measures are required (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-21 and 4.15-22). Dry Utilities SoCalGas currently provides natural gas to the Project site via local distribution lines and laterals on and adjacent to the Project site. These lines would be adequate to provide gas service to the Project. No off-site improvements for natural gas infrastructure are anticipated with the implementation Project. SCE currently provides electricity to the existing uses on the Project site and vicinity. Both underground and overhead electrical distribution lines are present within the City streets and yard easements, and high-voltage transmission lines exist along the 1-605 freeway (City of Arcadia 2010). In compliance with the City's General Plan, all utilities in the Downtown area must be placed underground. There are existing telephone, telecommunication, and cable television lines and facilities throughout the City. Cable and telecommunication services for the Project The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 65 FINDINGS OF FACT site are available from private providers such as AT&T, Spectrum, EarthLink, and Frontier (HSI 2022). No off-site improvements for electric power or telecommunications infrastructure are anticipated with the implementation of the Project. If unanticipated upgrades wereto be required for electrical, natural gas, ortelecommunications services, theywould be limited the lateral connections to the Project site and not any centralized facilities. Any unforeseen upgrades would be coordinated with appropriate service providersto minimize disruptions on service and would be completed by either trench less technology or open trenching to the depth of the underground utilities. Additionally, the Project would be required to comply with all regulatory requirements outlined within this Draft EIR for the purposes of mitigating impacts associated with construction activities. No adverse physical effects beyond those already disclosed in this Draft EIR would occur as a result of implementation of the Project's proposed utility system connections. Therefore, impacts to dry utilities would be less than significant (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-22). Sufficient Water Supplies The Project's anticipated water demand of 57.6 AFY can be accommodated within the UWMP's anticipated water supply between 2020 and 2025 for Multi -family land uses of 85 AF as well as the combined Multi -family and Commercial land uses of 184 AF. When considering that the Project's 57.6 AFY of water demand was not necessarily anticipated within the UWMP's projections of 184 AF, the 57.6 AFY must be accommodated within the growth projections for other projects that were not developed. The Project's potable water demand can still be accounted for within the City's demand projections due to the planned growth in residential units that has not been realized or approved between 2017 and 2022. Therefore, the City would have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project, as demonstrated through the City's UWMP water demand projections. The proposed Project would adhere to the water conservation methods established in Title 24 of the California Building Code. The Project would also adhere to the City's Water Conservation Plan and Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance, per Article VII, Chapter 5, Part 5, Division 3 and 4 of the City's Municipal Code. Additionally, the proposed Project would be subject to a development impact/connection fee, which would serve as the Project's fair share contribution to water infrastructure improvements in the City. Forthe reasons detailed above, the proposed Project would have sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dryyears. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.15-22 through 4.15-25). Adequate Capacity for Wastewater Treatment According to the Districts, the wastewater generated by the proposed Project would be treated at the San Jose Creek Water Reclamation Plant (SJCWRP) located adjacent to the City of Industry, which has a capacity of 100 MGD and currently processes an average flow of 62.7 MGD (Districts 2022). The remaining capacity at SJCWRP is approximately 37.3 MGD, or approximately 37 percent of its total capacity. The existing uses on the Project site generate an average flow of 9,012 GPD (Appendix L-1). Implementation of the Project would increase the wastewater flows from the Project site by 50,938 GPD, and increase in wastewater generation represents approximately 0.14 percent of the remaining capacity of the SJCWRP. Based on the capacity of the SJWRP, the wastewater generated by the proposed Project would be nominal of capacity. As such, the proposed Project would not exceed current capacities of the wastewater treatment system and would not significantly impact existing wastewater treatment systems such that new facilities would be required. Finally, water conservation measures as established at the local and state level would be implemented and would help reduce the amount of wastewater generated by the Project. The Derby Mixed -Use Pro'_ect _ _ 11663.05 October 2023 66 FINDINGS OF FACT All expansions of Districts' facilities must be sized and service phased in a manner that will be consistent with the SCAG regional growth forecast as set forth in the applicable RTP/SCS. The available capacity of the Districts' treatment facilities will, therefore, be limited to levels associated with the approved growth identified by SCAG. As such, the Districts would provide service and wastewater treatment up to the levels that within the legally permitted capacity and any proposed expansion of the Districts' facilities (Districts 2022). The Project is within the growth assumptions set forth in the applicable RTP/SCS. Therefore, impacts related to wastewater treatment would be less than significant (Draft EIR, pp. 4.15-25 and 4.15-26). Generation of Solid Waste Construction Per Section 5.408, Construction Waste Reduction, Disposal and Recycling, of CALGreen, 65 percent of construction and demolition waste generated by the project must be diverted from landfills. CALGreen requirements for 65 percent waste diversion, which would require the Project applicant/developer to either submit a construction waste management plan to the City that identifies the construction and demolition waste materials to be diverted from the landfills or use a waste management company that can provide verifiable documentation that the percentage of construction and demolition waste material diverted from the landfill meets CALGreen's 65 percent diversion requirement. The remaining 35 percent of construction and demolition material that is not required to be recycled would either be disposed of in a regional landfill or voluntarily recycled at a solid waste facility with available capacity. Inert landfills and debris facilities in the County have available capacity to receive construction and demolition debris generated by the Project. The Azusa Land Reclamation Co. landfill has an estimated total remaining capacity of 64.64 million tons (County of Los Angeles 2021). Other available inert debris facilities together an estimated remaining daily disposal capacity of approximately 16,157 tons per day (County of Los Angeles 2021). Dueto (1) required compliance with CALGreen and the City's Municipal Code regulations applicable to garbage, refuse and recycling (i.e., Article V, Chapter 1) and (2) the available capacity of local inert landfills and debris facilities, Project construction and demolition would not generate waste in excess of standards or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure and would not otherwise impairthe attainment of solid waste reduction goals. Thus, Project related construction impacts would be less than significant and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.15-26 and 4.15-27). Operation Based on the CaIEEMod solid waste generation rates, the Project would generate approximately 218.3 tons of solid waste per year or approximately 0.60 tons per day, after consideration of net reduction from existing land uses (i.e., The Derby Restaurant) (Appendix C-1 of the Draft EIR). The remaining daily capacity of local solid waste disposal facilities is 17,107 tons per day (County of Los Angeles 2021). Therefore, the Project's operational solid waste generation would account for 0.003 percent of the total remaining available daily disposal capacity, which is not a substantial share of the existing remaining daily capacity and would not be in excess of capacity of local infrastructure capacity (i.e., existing solid waste disposal facilities listed in Table 4.15-2) (County of Los Angeles 2021; Appendix C-1).11 Existing facilities in Kern, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties are also currently accepting waste from County municipalities, such as the City (County of Los Angeles 2021). As such, other landfills in the region would also be able to accommodate solid waste from the proposed Project, and regional 11 To calculate the percent of available capacity, the daily estimated tonnage of operational solid waste generated by the Project (approximately 0.47 tons per day, calculated using CaIEEMod default rates provided in Appendix C-1 of this Draft EIR) was divided by the existing daily remain capacity of the in-Countysolid waste disposal facilities available to the Project (17,107 tons per day, as shown in Table 4.14-1i in Section 4.15.1.2, utility Infrastructure, above) to arrive at approximately .0003 percent of existing daily disposal capacity. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 67 FINDINGS OF FACT planning efforts would ensure continued landfill capacity into the foreseeable future. For the reasons described above, Project operations would not generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals. Therefore, operational impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-27). Solid Waste Statutes and Regulations The Project would be required to comply with all applicable local and state regulations related to solid waste The state has set a goal of 75 percent recycling, composting, and source reduction of solid waste. To help reach this goal, the state has adopted AB 341 and AB 1826. AB 341 is a mandatory commercial recycling bill, and AB 1826 is mandatory organics recycling. Compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws is required for issuance of a solid waste facility permit, which is subject to review everyfive years. Additionally, the City is required to comply with the solid waste reduction and diversion requirements set forth by the state, including AB 939, AB 341, AB 1327, and AB 1826. Any hazardous wastes that are generated during construction activities would be managed and disposed of in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. For the reasons discussed above, the Project would comply with federal, state, and local management and reduction statues and regulations related to solid waste. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required (Draft EIR, pp. 4.15-27 and 4.15-28). Cumulative Effects Require or Result in the Relocation or Construction of New or Expanded Water, Wastewater Treatment, Stormwater Drainage, Electric Power, Natural Gas, or Telecommunications Facilities The Project would generate additional demands for water, electricity, natural gas, and communications services, which would incrementally increase demands for the facilities that provide these services. However, the Project would not significantly affect existing services such that new facilities would be required to provide these services to the Project site. Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts related to water, electricity, natural gas, and communications services infrastructure would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-28). Sufficient Water Supplies The City (through the current UWMP) anticipates its projected water supplies will meet demand through the year 2045. In terms of the City's overall water supply condition, any cumulative project that is consistent with the City's General Plan has been taken into account in the planned growth of the water system. Further, the proposed Project's increase in water demand, which is anticipated to be more than what was anticipated through the UWMP, can be accounted for in the City's supplies due to the fact that previous multi -family residential development has not been developed or approved at the rate that was assumed within the UWMP projections. There are adequate watersupplies to serve the Project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dryyears. For projects that meet the requirements established pursuant to SB 610, SB 221, and Sections 10910- 10915 of the State Water Code, a Water Supply Assessment demonstrating sufficient water availability is required on a project -by -project basis. Similar to the Project, each cumulative project would be required to comply with City and State Water Code and conservation programs for water supply to account for the cumulative demand for water. As a result, no significant cumulative water supply impacts are anticipated from development of the Project and cumulative projects, and the Project's incremental contribution to water demands would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-29). The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 68 FINDINGS OF FACT Adequate Capacity for Wastewater Treatment The Project area and each cumulative project would incrementally increase the amount of wastewater that is being generated in the area. Wastewater generated by the proposed Project would be treated at the San Jose Creek Water Reclamation Plant (SJCWRP) Implementation of the Project would increase the wastewater flows from the Project site by 50,938 GPD, and increase in wastewater generation represents approximately 0.13 percent of the remaining capacity of the SJCWRP. Based on the capacity of the SJWRP, the wastewater generated by the proposed Project would be nominal of capacity. As cumulative increases in wastewater treatment demand within the service area require facility upgrades, the City would continue to regulate public sewer facilities in as outlined in the 2014 City of Arcadia Sewer System Management Plan, and any affected treatment plants would continue to assess potential expansions to their treatment facilities in accordance with regulatory permit requirements. As such, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts to wastewater services would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-29). Generation of Solid Waste Development of the Project in combination with cumulative projects would increase land -use intensities in the area, resulting in increased solid waste generation in the service area for Azusa landfill. However, due to the built -out nature of the City, the Project and cumulative projects are considered urban infill and/or redevelopment projects. As such, solid waste is already being generated at the Project site and the majority, if not all, of the cumulative project sites within the City. Further, AB 939, or the Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989, mandates that cities divert from landfills 50 percent of the total solid waste generated to recycling facilities. In order to satisfy CALGreen requirements of diverting 65 percent of solid waste and to offset impacts associated with solid waste, the proposed Project and all cumulative projects would be required to implement waste reduction, diversion, and recycling during both demolition/ construction and operation. Through compliance with City and state solid waste diversion requirements, togetherwith the City's Source Reduction and Recycling Element and applicable regulations outlined in Article V, Chapter 1, of the City's Municipal Code, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts to solid waste services would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, pp. 4.15-29 and 4.15-30). Solid Waste Statutes and Regulations The Project and all cumulative projects would be required to comply with all applicable local and state regulations related to solid waste, including the mandatory recycling set forth in AB 341 and AB 1826. Compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws is required for issuance of a solid waste facility permit, which is subject to review every five years. Additionally, the City is required to comply with the solid waste reduction and diversion requirements set forth by the state, including AB 939, AB 341, AB 1327, and AB 1826. All businesses and residents at the Project site would be subject to recycling and diversion requirements. In addition, waste diversion and reduction during Project construction and operations would be completed in accordance with CALGreen standards. The private waste haulers contracted by the City, including Republic Services, Waste Management Inc., and Valley Vista Services, are all required to adhere to AB 341 as well as City Municipal Code waste management reporting requirements to help track compliance with applicable solid waste diversion targets (Arcadia Municipal Code Section 5130.2). Therefore, the Project's incremental contribution to impacts to compliance with solid waste regulations would not be cumulatively considerable (Draft EIR, p. 4.15-30). Finding The City finds that, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the Project would have a less than significant impact on utility and service systems; therefore, no mitigation is required. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 1166_3.05 October 2023 `^ 69 FINDINGS OF FACT 2.3.19 Wildfire According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps and the City General Plan Safety Element, the Project site is not within a Fire Hazard Severity Zones (CAL FIRE 2021; City of Arcadia 2010a). Due to the urban settingof the Projectsite, the potential for wildland fire hazards in the immediate Project vicinity are extremely limited, however, portions of the City approximately 0.85 miles north of the Project Site are within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ). The proposed Project would result in an increase in permanent residents in the Downtown Core, which could potentially have an impact on City wide evacuation routes. The proposed Project is located along Huntington Drive, which is a designated disaster route by the Los Angeles Department of Public Works (LADPW 2012). Additionally, the nearby 1-210 (running east -west through the City) and 1-605 (running along the City's southeastern corner) are other designated disaster routes in the City (LADPW 2012). The Project, however, would not result in any short- or long-term alterations to Huntington Drive, nor would it introduce a substantial number of new permanent residents that would significantly impact Huntington Drive's ability to serve as a disaster evacuation route. Further, as identified by CAL FIRE, all of the incorporated Fire Hazard Severity Zones within and adjacent to the City are north of the 1-210, as are the main arterial roadways that would likely be utilized by residents of these zones in the event of a wildfire evacuation (CAL FIRE 2022). The Proposed project area is located to the south of the 1-210 and to the far west of 1-650. As such, potential residents of the proposed Project would likely not access the designated area -wide evacuation routes via the same arterial roadways as the northern residents living in and around the VHFHZs and/or other Low, Moderate/High/Fire Hazard Severity Zones. As such, the Project would not exacerbate or expose people or structures to wildfire risks or substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan (Draft EIR, pp. 5-12 and 5-13). Finding Appendix A of the Notice of Preparation for the Project found no potential for significant impacts to wildfire; therefore, wildfire was not addressed in the Draft EIR. No mitigation would be required and no significant, unavoidable adverse impacts would occur. The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 70 3 Findings on Project Alternatives CEQA requires that an EIR describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project, or to the location of the project, that could feasibly attain the basic objectives of the project, and to evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives (14 CCR 15126.6[a]). The CEQA Guidelines direct that the selection of alternatives be governed by "a rule of reason" (14 CCR 15126.6[a], [f]). As defined by the CEQA Guidelines, "The range of alternatives required in an EIR is governed by a 'rule of reason' that requires the EIR to set forth onlythose alternatives necessary to permit a reasoned choice. The alternatives shall be limited to ones that would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects of the project. Of those alternatives, the EIR needs to examine in detail only the ones that the Lead Agency determines could feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project" (14 CCR 15126.6[f]). Additionally, CEQA Guidelines section 15091(x)(3) requires findings to be made as to why project alternatives were rejected. While an alternative may be potentially feasible under Guidelines section 15126.6 for inclusion in an EIR, the ultimate determination of feasibility is to be made by the decision-making body under section 15091(a)(3). As stated above, alternatives may be rejected when specific economic, legal, social, technological or other considerations make the Project infeasible. In making these findings, the City Council finds that there are seven objectives for the Project, which are primarily dependent upon developing an under-utilized site within Downtown Arcadia. However, the primary objectives of the Project are (1) addressing the regional housing shortage by providing additional housing opportunities that support the City's Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requirements; and (2) developing an under-utilized property within a Transit Priority Area. 3.1 Alternatives Carried Forward for Consideration This section discusses a reasonable range of alternatives to the Project, including a no project alternative, in compliance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e). These alternatives include the following: • Alternative A: No Project/Existing Development • Alternative B: Reduced Commercial • Alternative C: Reduced Commercial (The Derby)/No H7 Special Height Overlay These alternatives are evaluated for their ability to avoid orsubstantially lessen the impacts of the Project identified in the EIR, as well as consideration of their ability to meet the basic objectives of the proposed Project as described in the Final EIR. 3.1.1 Alternative A - No Project/No Development Section 15126.6(e) of the CEQA Guidelines requires that an EIR evaluate and analyze the impacts of a no project alternative. The "purpose of describing and analyzing a no project alternative is to allow decision makers to compare the impacts of approving the proposed Project with the impacts of not approving the proposed Project" (14 CCR 15126.6[e][1]). When defining the no project alternative, the analysis shall be informed by "what would be reasonably expected to occur in the foreseeable future if the project were not approved, based on current plans and consistent with available infrastructure and community services" (14 CCR 15126.6[e][2]). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 71 FINDINGS OF FACT Description As stated in Section 15126.6(e)(3)(A), when a project is the revision of an existing land use or regulatory plan or policy or an ongoing operation, the no project alternative will be the continuation of the plan, policy, or operation into the future. Accordingly, Alternative A assumes the proposed Project would not proceed, no new permanent development or land uses would be introduced within the Project site, and the existing environment would be maintained. The existing uses would operate with the existing infrastructure in place. The existing commercial uses (i.e., The Derby restaurant), would remain in place and be operational, the existing surface parking lots would be retained, and no new buildings or subterranean parking would be constructed. It can also be assumed that the existing commercial buildingthat was previously occupied by the Souplantation restaurant would be re -occupied by a similar type use, as the facility is currently vacant but could be leased to a new tenant. It cannot be known at this time whether the existing restaurant buildings would be reoccupied in their current form or would be redeveloped based on economic circumstances; however, for the purposes of this Alternative A, no site improvements are assumed (Draft EIR, p. 6-6). Analysis Under this alternative, impacts would generally be reduced. However, impacts related to land use and planning would be slightly greater than under the proposed Project. Further, the No Project/No Development Alternative would not provide additional housing units that could help meet the City's RHNA goals and growth projections. Also, due to the underutilization of the site, the No Project/No Development Alternative would not contribute to a reduction in citywide VMT and associated GHG emissions attributed to increased development in a Transit Priority Area (Draft EIR, pp. 6-8 through 6-13). Finding For the reasons stated below, and each of them independently of the others, the City finds that Alternative A - No Project Alternative is not feasible, and rejects this alternative. The No Project/No Development fails to satisfy most the Project's objectives, and because specific economic, legal, social, technological or other considerations make the alternative infeasible. Rationale No Project/No Development would have fewer impacts compared to the Project in terms of aesthetics, air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, energy, geology and soils, greenhouse gas emissions, hazards and hazardous materials, hydrology and water quality (short-term impacts), noise, public services, recreation, transportation, tribal cultural resources, and utilities and service systems. The No Project/No Development Alternative would not achieve the Project objectives, with the exception of partially satisfying Objective No. 4, , which assumes existing land uses and surface parking would remain and the views of the surface parking lots from Huntington Drive is not expansive or overbearing; and Objective No. 6, which assumes existing land uses associated with The Derby restaurant would remain and new commercial (i.e. restaurant) uses would be provided within Souplantation building. No new housing would be proposed, thus, the Project would not help meet the City's RHNA requirements. The Derby Mixed -Use Pr2ject 11663.05 October 2023 72 FINDINGS OF FACT 3.1.2 Alternative B - Reduced Commercial Description As presented in prior sections of this Draft EIR, the Project would not result in significant and unavoidable impacts after implementation of all mitigation measures. Therefore, Alternative B considers an alternative design that would incrementally reduce the environmental impacts of the proposed Project for which mitigation is required by reducingthe amount of commercial space and replacing the level one commercial area with 4,700 square feet of amenity space for the residential uses. Under Alternative B, the 3,300 square -foot restaurant space and 1,400 square -foot cafe space would be replaced by additional residential amenity space. Under Alternative B, The Derby restaurant would be the only commercial use on the Project site. Alternative B would generate residents associated with 214 units and employment associated with the modernized The Derby restaurant. Under Alternative B, no change would occur to the number of units and total residents (i.e., 608); however, this alternative would result in fewer anticipated employees as a result of the conversion of the 3,300 square - foot restaurant and 1,400 square -foot cafe to amenity spaces. As such, Alternative B is estimated to result in approximately 73 employees (20 net new employees), as opposed to the Project's 87 employees (34 net new employees), representing a reduction of 14 employees. This reduction represents an approximately 16.1 percent decrease in anticipated total employees and an approximately 41.2 percent decrease in net new employees when compared to the proposed Project (Draft EIR, p. 6-13).12 Analysis Most impacts under Alternative B would be the same as the Project and would require all of the mitigation measures identified for the Project. However, the following impacts would be slightly reduced under this alternative: long-term air quality impacts; long-term energy impacts; long-term greenhouse gas emissions impacts; long-term noise impacts; public services and recreation impacts; and long-term transportation impacts. Additionally, under Alternative B, impacts related to utilities and service systems would be reduced (Draft EIR, pp. 6-15 through 6-19). Finding For the reasons stated below, and each of them independently of the others, the City finds that Alternative B is not feasible, and rejects that alternative. Alternative B satisfies a majority of the Project Objectives. However, this alternative partially satisfies Objective No. 6 under a reduced project alternative. Alternative B is rejected because specific economic, legal, social, technological or other considerations make the alternative infeasible. Rationale While the Alternative B would achieve a majority of the Project objectives, Objective No. 6 would be partially satisfied. Alternative B would result in a mixed-use, high-density, urban development that would be supported by temporary employment opportunities during construction. Due to the reduced commercial space, Alternative B would generate 14 fewer employees compared to the project. However, long-term employment would still be generated under Alternative B through operation of The Derby restaurant, the residential leasing office, and 12 (87 - 73)/87 =0.161 x 100 = 16.1 percent; (34 - 20)/34=0.412 x 100 =41.2 percent The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 73 FINDINGS OF FACT valet/parking areas.. Further, Alternative B would not result in a reduction of a significant environmental impact. Neither the Project nor Alternative B would result in a significant and unavoidable environmental impact. 3.1.2 Alternative C - Reduced Commercial (The Derby)/No H7 Specia Height Overlay Description As presented in prior sections of this Draft EIR, the Project would not result in significant and unavoidable impacts after implementation of all mitigation measures. Therefore, Alternative C considers an alternative design that would incrementally reduce the environmental impacts of the proposed Project for which mitigation is required and would potentially improve the Project's consistency with the City's zoning designation. Alternative C would eliminate approximately 8,850 square feet of commercial space. Due to the overall reduction in commercial space, Alternative C would no longer provide a larger, modernized space for The Derby restaurant, which would be demolished to accommodate a new five -story mixed-use building. Additionally, Alternative C would not include an H7 Special Height Overlay, thereby reducingthe Project's maximum height from 71 feet to 60 feet. As stated in Section 4.9, Land Use and Planning of the Draft EIR, the Project site's current C -G zoning designation sets a maximum allowable building height of 40 feet and does not allow for residential use. The Project would include a Zone Change to DMU and an H7 Special Height Overlay. An overlay zone, such as a height overlay, supplements the base zoning provisions for the purpose of establishing specific development regulations for a particular site or area. Under the DMU zone, the maximum allowable building height is 60 feet. The H7 Special Height Overlay would increase the maximum allowable building height on the Project site to 75 feet, thus allowing for the Project's six -story mixed-use building to be proposed with a maximum height of 71 feet. Alternative C would not include the H7 Special Height Overlay and the additional height allowed, thereby reducing the Project's maximum height from 71 feet to 60 feet, which would be consistent with limits set forth under the DMU zone change request.13 Alternative C would not result in reduced dwelling units due to an alternative building design that eliminates the setback on Levels Two through Five, thus allowingfor "replacement" units to be constructed. Under Alternative C, the 9,177 square -foot commercial space associated with The Derby restaurant on Level One would be reduced and divided into two 2,000 square -foot commercial spaces. The remaining square footage associated with The Derby restaurant would be converted to additional commercial parking (approximately 5,177 square feet). On Level Two, there would be no building setback, and the 2,950 square -foot exterior space for The Derby along with an approximately 723 square -foot interior space would be converted into 10 dwelling units. The vertical exterior space on Levels Three through Five would also be enclosed and built out, allowing for construction of eight additional units per level, for a total of 34 additional units.14 The five two-story dwelling units on Level Five would also be reduced to one story. Therefore, although Level Six would be eliminated (resulting in the elimination of 34 units) the total unit count for the building would remain 214. The elimination of 8,850 square feet of commercial space under Alternative C (initially intended to support an expanded The Derby restaurant) would result in an approximately 50 percent reduction in overall commercial space compared to the Project. Although The Derby restaurant would no longer be operational, commercial uses on the Project site would generate employment associated with two 2,000 foot commercial spaces, the 1,400 square foot cafe space, the 3,300 13 According to Table 2-11 within Section 9102.05.030, Development Standards in Downtown Zones, the DMU zone has a base density of 80 dwelling units per acre and a maximum height of 60 feet. 14 Level 2 (10 units) + Level 3 (8 units) + Level 4 (8 units) + Level 5 (8 units) = 34 units The Derby Mixed -Use Project _ 11663.05 October 2023 74 FINDINGS OF FACT square foot restaurant space, valet operations, and leasing office for a total of 30 employees. This represents a net reduction of 57 employees (or approximately 66 percent) underthis alternative compared to the proposed Project (Draft EIR, p. 6-20). Analysis For the reasons stated below, and each of them independently of the others, the City finds that Alternative C is not feasible, and rejects that alternative. Alternative C would result in similar or reduced impacts. Under this alternative, the following would result in reduced impacts: aesthetics, long-term air quality, long-term energy, long-term greenhouse gas emissions, land use and planning, long-term population and housing, public services and recreation, long-term transportation, and utilities and service systems. Additionally, Alternative C would result in slightly reduced impacts related to long-term noise. Alternative C is rejected because specific economic, legal, social, technological or other considerations make the alternative infeasible (Draft EIR, pp. 6-22 through 6-27). Finding For the reasons stated below, and each of them independently of the others, the City finds that Alternative C is not feasible, and rejects that alternative. While Alternative C satisfies a majority of the Project Objectives. However, this alternative partially satisfies Objective No. 6 and would not satisfy Objective No. 7. Alternative C is rejected because specific economic, legal, social, technological or other considerations make the alternative infeasible. Rationale While the Alternative C would achieve a majority of the Project objectives, Objective No. 6 would be partially satisfied. Alternative C would result in a mixed-use, high-density, urban development that would be supported by temporary employment opportunities during construction. Due to the reduced commercial space, Alternative C would generate fewer employees compared to the project. However, long-term employment would still be generated under Alternative C through operation of the commercial spaces, the residential leasing office, and valet/parking areas. Additionally, this alternative would not satisfy Objective No. 7. Alternative C would result in a mixed-use, high- density, urban development that would be supported by temporary employment opportunities during construction. Due to the reduced commercial space, Alternative C would generate fewer employees compared to the project. However, longterm employment would still be generated under Alternative C through operation of the commercial spaces, the residential leasing office, and valet/parking areas. Neither the Project nor Alternative C would result in a significant and unavoidable environmental impact. 3.2.2 Environmentally Superior Alternative An EIR must identify an "environmentally superior" alternative; and, where the no project alternative is environmentally superior, the EIR is then required to identify an alternative from among the others evaluated as environmentally superior (14 CCR 15126.6[e][2]). Alternative A would result in reduced impacts to all environmental topics in the short-term because construction activity would not occur. Alternative A would therefore eliminate all mitigation requirements for short-term construction activity. Similarly, Alternative A would result in reduced environmental impacts to most environmental topics in the long-term because no operational changes would occur. However, increased environmental impacts would occur for the following topics: (1) Hydrology/water quality, due to the continued operation of the site that does not currently contain low -impact development features; (2) Population and Housing, due to the lack of The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 75 FINDINGS OF FACT additional housing units that could help meet the City's RHNA goals and growth projections; and (3) Land Use and Planning, as neither Alternative A would facilitate the City's stated goals, policies, and objectives related to zoning and land -use in Downtown Arcadia. The proposed Project would redevelop existing commercial uses and surface parking lot to construct a mix of land uses including residential and commercial, within a TPA and the established Downtown Arcadia focus area, which would help the City to achieve its goals and policies related to land use, circulation, economic development, and housing, which would not occur under Alternative A. Nevertheless, the elimination of all construction and operational impacts associated with the proposed Project would result in an environmentally superior alternative when compared to the proposed Project, Alternative B, and/or Alternative C. As required under CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6(e)(2), if the environmentally superior alternative is the "no project" alternative, the EIR must also identify an environmentally superior alternative amongthe other alternatives. The proposed Project has no significant unavoidable impacts that could be addressed by the adoption of any alternative. Both Alternatives B and C would have similar environmental impacts when compared to the proposed Project for almost all environmental topics and would not eliminate the need for any proposed mitigation measures. However, Alternative C would result in reduced impacts associated with aesthetics, air quality, energy, GHG emissions, noise, population and housing, public services and recreation, transportation, and utilities and service systems. Therefore, Alternative C would reduce more overall impacts when compared to the Project and Alternative B; therefore, Alternative C would be considered the environmentally superior alternative (Draft EIR, pp. 6-29 and 6- 30). The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 76 4 General CEQA Findings Based on the information contained in the administrative record and based on the facts stated below, the City makes the Findings set forth in Sections 4.1 and 4.2. 1. The plans for the proposed Project have been prepared and analyzed so as to provide for public involvement in the planning and the CEQA processes. 2. To the degree that any impacts described in the Draft EIR are perceived to have a significant effect on the environment, or such impacts appear ambiguous as to their effect on the environment, any significant effect of such impacts has been substantially lessened or avoided by the mitigation measures set forth in the Draft and Final EIR. 3. Comments regarding the Draft EIR received during the public review period have been adequately addressed in Chapter 2, Responses to Comments Received, in the Final EIR. Any significant effects described in such comments were avoided or substantially lessened by the mitigation measures described in the Draft and Final EIR. 4.1 Findings Regarding Recirculation The Cityfinds thatthe Draft EIR does not require recirculation under CEQA (CEQA Section 21092.1, CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5). CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5 requires recirculation of an EIR prior to certification of the Final EIR when "significant new information is added to the EIR after public notice is given of the availability of the draft EIR for public review." As described in CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5: New information added to an EIR is not "significant" unless the EIR is changed in a way that deprives the public of a meaningful opportunity to comment upon a substantial adverse environmental effect of the project or a feasible way to mitigate or avoid such an effect (including a feasible project alternative) that the project's proponents have declined to implement. "Significant new information" requiring recirculation includes, for example, a disclosure showing that: 1. A new significant environmental impact would result from the project or from a new mitigation measure proposed to be implemented; 2. A substantial increase in the severity of an environmental impact would result unless mitigation measures are adopted that reduce the impact to a level of insignificance; 3. A feasible project alternative or mitigation measure considerably different from others previously analyzed would clearly lessen the significant environmental impacts of the project, but the project's proponents decline to adopt it; 4. The draft EIR was so fundamentally and basically inadequate and conclusory in nature that meaningful public review and comment were precluded. In addition, CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5(b) provides that "recirculation is not required where the new information added to the EIR merely clarifies and amplifies or makes insignificant modifications in an adequate EIR." Recirculation also is not required simply because new information is added to the EIR — indeed, new information is oftentimes added given CEQA's public/agency comment and response process and CEQA's post - Draft EIR circulation requirement of proposed responses to comments submitted by public agencies. In short, The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 77 FINDINGS OF FACT recirculation is "intended to be an exception rather than the general rule." (Laurel Heights Improvement Assn. v. Regents of University of California (1993) 6 Ca1.4th 1112, 1132.) As such, the City makes the following Findings: 1. None of the public comments submitted to the City regarding the Draft EIR present any significant new information that would require the Draft EIR to be recirculated for public review. 2. No new or modified mitigation measures are proposed that would have the potential to create new significant environmental impacts. 3. The Draft EIR adequately analyzed project alternatives and there are no feasible project alternatives or mitigation measures considerably different from others previously analyzed that would clearly lessen the significant environmental impacts of the project. 4. The Draft EIR was not fundamentally and basically inadequate and conclusory in nature and did not preclude meaningful public review and comment. In this legal context, the City finds that recirculation of the Draft EIR prior to certification is not required. In addition to providing responses to comments, the Final EIR includes revisions to expand upon information presented in the Draft EIR (Chapter 3, Changes to the EIR); explain or enhance the evidentiary basis for the Draft EIR's findings; update information; and to make clarifications, amplifications, updates, or helpful revisions to the Draft EIR. These revisions, clarifications and/or updates do not result in any new significant impacts or increase the severity of a previously identified significant impact. These changes are notsubstantial, do not deprive the public of a meaningful opportunity to comment on a substantial adverse environmental effect, a feasible way to mitigate or avoid such an effect or a feasible project alternative. In summary, the Final EIR demonstrates that the proposed Project would not result in any new significant impacts or increase the severity of a significant impact, as compared to the analysis presented in the Draft EIR. The changes reflected in the Final EIR also do not indicate that meaningful public review of the Draft EIR was precluded in the first instance. Accordingly, recirculation of the EIR is not required as revisions to the EIR are not significant as defined in Section 15088.5 of the CEQA Guidelines. 4.2 Legal Effects of Findings To the extent that these Findings conclude that the proposed mitigation measures outlined herein are feasible and have not been modified, superseded, or withdrawn, the City hereby commits to implementing these measures. These Findings, in other words, are not merely informational, but rather constitute a binding set of obligations that will come into effect when the City approves the proposed Project. The mitigation measures that are referenced herein and adopted concurrently with these Findings will be effectuated through the process of construction and implementation of the proposed Project. The Derby Mixed -Use Project 11663.05 October 2023 78 5 Conclusion The mitigation measures listed in conjunction with each of the findings set forth above, as implemented through the MMRP, will eliminate or reduce to a less -than -significant level most of the adverse environmental impacts of the Project. Taken together, the EIR which consists of the Draft EIR, Final EIR, and the MMRP provide an adequate basis for approval of the Project. The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR 11663.05 September 2023 79 FINDINGS OF FACT INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR 11663.05 September 2023 80 6 References Cited CAL FIRE (California Department of Forestry and Fire Services). 2022. Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer. Accessed November 3, 2022. http://egis.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ/. CaIGEM (Department of Conservation, Geologic Energy Management Division). 2022. Well Finder Map. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/doggr/wellfinder/#/-118.03011/34.14030/17. Caltrans (California Department of Transportation). 2019. List of Eligible and Officially Designated State Scenic Highways (XLSX). Accessed October 2022. https://dot.ca.gov/programs/design/lap-landscape- architecture-and-community-I iva bi I ity/I a p -I iv -i -scenic -highways. CDFW (California Department of Fish and Wildlife). 2014. Bios Essential Connectivity Map. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://apps.wildlife.ca.gov/bios/. CDFW. 2021. California Natural Diversity Database, RareFind 5 web -viewer. Accessed July 2020. https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CNDDB/Maps-and-Data. City of Arcadia. 2010. City of Arcadia General Plan. Updated 2013. Accessed October 2022 https://www.a rcad iaca.gov/shape/development_services_department/planning`zon i ng/genera I_pla n. ph p. City of Arcadia. 2010b. City of Arcadia General Plan Final EIR. SCH No. 2009081034. September 2010. Accessed June 2023. https://www.arcadiaca.gov/shape/development_services_department/ planning_zoning/general_plan.php#outer-708. City of Arcadia. 2019a. Commercial and Mixed Use Design Guidelines. October 2019. Accessed November 11, 2022. https://cros9files.revize.com/arcadia/Shape%20Arcadia/Development%20Services/ des ign%20gu ide I i ne%20u pdate/CM U_10-21-19. pdf. City of Arcadia. 2020. City of Arcadia Transportation Study Guidelines for Vehicle Miles Traveled and Level of Service Assessment. August. City of Arcadia. 2021.2020 Urban Water Management Plan. Accessed November 21, 2022. https://cros9files.revize.com/a rcad ia/Shape%20Arcadia/Public%20Works%20Services%20Department/ Water%20&%20Sewer%20Seryices/ Fina 1%202020%20 UWMP. pdf. City of Arcadia 2022. Municipal Code. Accessed at https://[ibrary.municode.com/ca/arcadia/ cod es/cod e_of_ord i na n ces?node I d=ARCAM UCO. City of Arcadia. 2022b. Trash and Recycling. City of Arcadia Public Works Services Department. Accessed November 21, 2022. https://www.arcadiaca.gov/government/city-departments/public-works-services/ trash -and -recycling. CNPS (California Native Plant Society). 2020. Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants, web -viewer. Accessed June 25, 2021. http://www.rareplants.cnps.org/advanced.htmi. The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR 11663.05 September 2023 81 FINDINGS OF FACT County of Los Angeles. 2021. Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan 202 Annual Report. Los Angeles County Public Works. Accessed November 21, 2022. County of Los Angeles. 2022. A NET. LA. County's Airport Land Use Commission Site. https://Iacounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/weba ppviewer/index. htm I?id=acf2e87194a54af9b266bfO7547f240a. Districts. 2022. Communication with Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts on November 8, 2022. Per M. Huffman, Environmental Planner, Facilities Planning Department. Included in Appendix A-2. DOC (California Department of Conservation). 2002. Guidelines for Classification and Designation of Mineral Lands. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/smgb/Guidelines/ Documents/ClassDesig. pdf. DOC. 2014. Updated Designation of Regionally Significant Aggregate Resources in the San Gabriel Valley Production -Consumption Region, Los Angeles County. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/smgb/reports/Documents/Designation_Reports/Designation-Report- 12-San-Gabriel.pdf. DOC (California Department of Conservation). 2022. California Tsunami Maps and Data. Accesses November 16, 2022. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/tsunami/maps. DOC. 2022a. California Important Farmland Finder. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/dlrp/ciff/. DOC. 2022b. The Williamson Act Status Report 2020-2021. Released 2022. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://www.conservation.ca.gov/d lrp/wa/Docu mentslstats_reportsl2018%20WA%2OStatus%2OReport. pdf. DOF (California Department of Finance). 2022. E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State, January 2021-2022 with 2020 Census Benchmark. Table 2: E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, 1/1/2022. Accessed October 12, 2022. https.//dof.ca.gov/forecasting/demographics/ esti mates/e-5-popu lation-and-housi ng -estimates -for -cities -counties -and -the -state -2020-2022/. DWR (California Department of Water Resource). 2022. Dam Breach Inundation Map Web Map Publisher. Accessed December 15, 2022. https://fmds.water.ca.gov/webgis/?appid=dam_prototype_v2. EDD (Employment Development Department). 2022. Labor Force and Unemployment Rate for Cities and Census Designated Places. August 2022. Accessed October 14, 2022. https://data.edd.ca.gov/Labor-Force-and- Unem ployment-Rates/Labor-Force-and-Unem ployment-Rate-for-California-S/8z4h-2ak6/data#revert. Graham F. 2022. Communication with City Planning Services Manager, Email Entitled "Housing". Email from F. Graham to K. Starbird on December 19, 2022. Graham, F. 2023. Email to K. Starbird (Project Manager, Dudek) from F. Graham (Planning Services Manager, City of Arcadia). Subject: HE Rezone summary. June 29, 2023. HSI (High Speed Internet). 2022. Internet providers in 91006, Arcadia, CA. Accessed November 11, 2022. https*//www.highspeedinternet.com/ca/arcadia?zip=91006. The Derby Mixed -Use Pro.;ect Final EIR 11663.05 October 2023 82 FINDINGS OF FACT LACDPW. 2022. Santa Anita Stormwater Engineering Projects. Accessed November 16, 2022. http,//www.dpw.lacounty.gov/wrd/projects/SantaAnita/. LA DPW (Los Angeles Department of Public Works). 2012. Disaster Routes, Los Angeles County Operational Area. Accessed October 19, 2022. https://Iadpw.org/dsg/DisasterRoutes/ LARWQCB (Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board). 2014. Basin Plan for the Coastal Watersheds of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Accessed November 15, 2022. https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/ loss ngeles/water_issues/programs/basin_plan/basin_pla n_docu mentation.htm I. OPR (California Governor's Office of Planning and Research). 2018. Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA. December 2018. Accessed June 2020. http://opr.ca.gov/ docs/20190122-743_Techn ical_Advisory.pdf. SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments). 2020. Demographics and Growth Forecasts, Connect SoCal. Accessed October 2022. https.//scag.ca.gov/sites/main/files/file-attachments/ 0903fcon nectsoca I_demogra ph ics-and-growth-forecast. pdf?1606001579. SCAG. 2020. 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy of the Southern California Association Of Governments. Adopted May 7, 2020. https://www.connectsocal.org/ Documents/Adopted/fCon n ectSoCa I -Plan. pdf. SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District). 1993. CEQA Air Quality Handbook. SCAQMD. 2003. White Paper on Potential Control Strategies to Address Cumulative Impacts from Air Pollution. August 2003. http://www.agmd.gov/docs/default-source/Agendas/Environmental-Justice/ cum u lative-i m pa cts-worki n g-grou p/cu m u lative-i m pacts-wh ite-pa per. pdf?sfvrs n=2. SCAQMD. 2022. Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). Adopted December 2, 2022. Accessed April 2023. https://www.agmd.gov/home/air-quality/clean-ai r-plans/air-quality-mgt-plan. SGMA (Sustainable Groundwater Management Act). 2022. Groundwater Basin Prioritizations, SGMA Data Viewer. Accessed November 16, 2022. https://sgma.water.ca.gov/webgis/?appid=SGMADataViewer #boundaries. Spencer, W.D., P. Beier, K. Penrod, K. Winters, C. Paulman, H. Rustigian-Romsos, J. Strittholt, M. Parisi, and A. Pettler. 2010. California Essential Habitat Connectivity Project: A Strategy for Conserving a Connected California. Prepared for California Department of Transportation, California Department of Fish and Game, and Federal Highways Administration. http://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx? DocumentlD=18366. Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. 2010. Standard Procedures for the assessment and mitigation of adverse impacts to paleontological resources. Available: https://vertpaleo.org/wp-content/ uploads/2021/01/SVP_Impact_Mitigation_Guidelines.pdf. The Climate Registry. 2020. Default Emission Factors. April 2020. Accessed November 2022. https://docslib.org,/doc/5505795/the-climate-registry-2020-default-emission factor- document. The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR 11663.05 October 2023 83 FINDINGS OF FACT U.S. Census. 2021. U.S. Census Bureau, QuickFacts: Arcadia City. Accessed October 12, 2022. https://www.census.gov/q u ickfacts/fact/table/arcad iacityca lifornia/PST045221 USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). 2021a. Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) Database; results for the Project site. Accessed June 25, 2021. https.//ecos.fws.gov/ipac/. USFWS. 2022b. National Wetlands Inventory, online Wetland Mapper. Accessed November 3, 2022. https://www.fws.gov/wetlands/data/mapper.htm1. The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR _ 11663.05 October 2023 84 FINDINGS OF FACT INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK The Derby Mixed -Use Project Final EIR 11663.05 October 2023 85 EXHIBIT "B" [MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM 4 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program California Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 requires that, upon certification of an environmental impact report (EIR), "the public agency shall adopt a reporting or monitoring program for the changes made to the project or conditions of project approval, adopted in order to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment. The reporting or monitoring program shall be designed to ensure compliance during project implementation." This chapter contains the mitigation monitoring and reporting program (MMRP) that has been developed for The Derby Mixed -Use Project (Project). This MMRP has been developed in compliance with Public Resources Code Section 21081.6 and Section 15097 of the State CEQA Guidelines. The mitigation measures in the table are coded by alphanumeric identification consistent with the EIR. The following items are identified for each mitigation measure (MM): Mitigation Monitoring. This section of the MMRP lists the stage of the proposed Project during which the mitigation measure would be implemented and the stage during which proper implementation would be monitored and verified. It also lists the agency that is responsible for ensuring that the mitigation measure is implemented and that it is implemented properly. ■ Verification of Compliance. This section of the MMRP provides a location forthe implementing party and/or enforcing agency to make notes and to record their initials and the compliance date for each mitigation measure. The City of Arcadia (City) must adopt this MMRP, or an equally effective program, if it approves the proposed Project with the mitigation measures that were adopted or made conditions of Project approval. FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-1 Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Cultural Resources MM -CUL -1. Prior to commencement of construction activities, an inadvertent discovery clause, written by an archaeologist, shall be added to all construction plans associated with ground disturbing activities and the Project Applicant shall retain a qualified archaeologist, meeting the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology, to prepare a Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP). The WEAP shall be submitted to the City of Arcadia Development Services Department (City) for review and approval. All construction personnel and monitors shall be presented the WEAP training prior to the start of construction activities. The WEAP shall be prepared to inform all personnel working on the Project about the archaeological sensitivity of the area, to provide specific details on the kinds of archaeological materials that may be identified during construction, to explain the importance of and legal basis for the protection of significant archaeological resources, and to outline the actions to be taken in the event of a discovery of cultural resources. Each worker shall also learn the proper procedures to follow in the event that cultural resources or human remains are uncovered during ground -disturbing activities. These procedures include work curtailment or redirection, and the immediate contact of the site supervisor and archaeological monitor. The WEAP shall require that a qualified archaeologist be retained and on-call to respond to and address any inadvertent discoveries identified during initial excavation in native soils, which underly the 2- 4 feet below ground surface of artificial fill soils. As it pertains to archaeological monitoring, this definition excludes movement of sediments after they have been initially disturbed or displaced by project -related construction. Prior to commencement of construction activities; During construction activities Party Responsible for Implementation Project Applicant/Developer; Project qualified archaeologist for preparation of a Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation City of Arcadia Planning and Building Divisions FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-2 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program If potential archaeological resources (i.e., sites, features, or artifacts) are exposed during construction activities for the Project, the City shall be notified and all construction work occurring within 50 feet of the find shall immediately stop until a qualified archaeologist can evaluate the significance of the find and determine whether or not additional study is warranted. The archaeologist shall be empowered to temporarily stop or redirect grading activities to allow removal of abundant or large artifacts. Depending upon the significance of the find under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (14 CCR 15064.5[fj; PRC, Section 21082), the archaeologist may simply record the find and allow work to continue. If the discovery proves significant under CEQA, additional work, such as preparation of an archaeological treatment plan and data recovery, may be warranted. The archaeologist shall also be required to curate any discovered specimens in a repository with permanent retrievable storage and submit a written report to the City of Arcadia for review and approval prior to occupancy of the first building on the site. Once approved, the final report shall be filed with the South -Central Coastal Information Center (SCCIC). Geology and Soils MM-GEO-1. In the event that paleontological resources (e.g., fossils) are exposed during construction activities for the Project, all construction work occurring within 50 feet of the find shall immediately stop until a Qualified Paleontologist meeting Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP 2010) standards can evaluate the significance of the find and determine whether or not additional study is warranted. If the discovery is clearly not significant, the paleontologist may document the find and allow work to continue. If significant paleontological resources are discovered during earthmoving activities, the qualified paleontologist shall prepare and submit a Paleontological Resources Recovery Plan (PRRP) to the City Agency Responsible for Party Responsible for Monitoring Implementation Timing Implementation Implementation Prior to any grading activity; During grading activities Project City of Arcadia Planning Applicant/Developer; and Building Divisions Project paleontologist for preparation of a Paleontological Resources Impact Mitigation Program (PRIMP) and preconstruction meeting FINAL EIR FORTHE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-3 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Fable 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for review and approval. The recovery plan shall include, but is not limited to, sampling and fossil recovery procedures, museum curation for any scientifically significant specimen recovered, and a report of findings. Recommendations in the PRRP as approved by the City shall be implemented before construction activities can resume at the site where the significant paleontological resources were discovered. Any reports and plans resulting from implementation of this measure shall be submitted to City Planning Division and filed with the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Hazards and Hazardous Materials MM-HAZ :L. Hazardous Building Materials Survey. Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit for any existing on-site structures, a qualified environmental specialist shall conduct a survey for asbestos -containing materials, lead-based paint, polychlorinated biphenyls, mercury, and other hazardous building materials, such as universal wastes and refrigerants, to document the presence of any potentially hazardous materials within the structures. If survey results are positive, all potentially hazardous materials identified as part of this survey shall be handled and disposed in accordance with the federal and state hazardous waste and universal waste regulations. Demolition plans and contract specifications shall incorporate any necessary abatement measures in compliance with the findings of the hazardous building materials survey and federal, state, and local regulations, including those of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (which regulates disposal), Occupational Safety and Health Administration, California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (which regulates employee exposure), the South Coast Air Quality Management District, and the Metallic Discards Act of 1991 (Public Resources Code, Section 42160 et seq.), particularly Public Resources Code, Section 42175, Materials Requiring Special Handling. for the removal of mercury switches. PCB -containing FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT OCTOBER 2023 Implementation Timing Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit Party Responsible for Implementation Project Applicant/Developer Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation City of Arcadia Planning and Building Divisions 11663.05 4-4 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Party Responsible for Implementation Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation ballasts, and refrigerants. Upon completion of construction activities, proof of proper handling and disposal shall be provided to the City's Public Works Services Department. MM-HAZ 2. Contaminated Soil Management. Prior to the issuance of Prior to the issuance of a Project City a grading permit, the Project Applicant/Developer shall retain a grading permit; During Applicant/Developer; and qualified environmental professional to prepare a soil management construction activities Project Contractor for plan (SMP) that outlines the proper screening, handling, preparation of a Soil characterization, transportation, and disposal procedures for Management Plan (SMP) contaminated soils on site based on the findings of the site-specific conditions, geophysical surveys, and Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments, and shall identify any areas of known or suspected soil contamination. The SMP shall be provided to the City Development Services Department for review prior to any site grading. The Project's contractor shall ensure implementation of the SMP through the contract specifications for all confirmed and suspected contaminated soils which require excavation and offsite disposal. The SMP shall include health and safety and training procedures for construction workers who may come into contact with contaminated soils. The health and safety procedures shall include periodic breathing zone monitoring for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using handheld organic vapor analyzer and include required actions to be taken if concentrations of VOCs exceed applicable screening levels for health and safety of onsite workers and the public. The SMP shall also include instructions for the identification of potentially -impacted soils, procedures for temporary cessation of construction activity and evaluation of the level of environmental concern if potentially -impacted soils or underground storage tanks are encountered, procedures for characterizing and managing potentially -impacted soils, and follow-up procedures such as disposal and reporting, as necessary. Contaminated soil shall be managed and disposed of in accordance with applicable federal, state, and of Arcadia Planning Building Divisions FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-5 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program local regulations. upon completion of construction activities, proof of compliance with the SMP shall be provided to the City's Development Services Department. Noise MM -N01-1. Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit, the Project Applicant/Developer shall ensure that the following measures are included in the construction contractor's contract specifications and that the following measures are implemented and monitored for compliance throughout construction: ■ All construction equipment must have supplier -approved sound muffling devices (e.g., engine air intake or exhaust treatment) installed and used in compliance with relevant industry standards and Cal/OSHA regulations pertaining to construction noise, which shall be properly maintained and used at all times such equipment is in operation. • The construction contractor shall place stationary construction equipment so that emitted noise is directed away from sensitive receptors nearest the Project site, including the hotels located adjacent to the northern and northwestern boundaries of the Project site. • The construction contractor shall locate on-site equipment staging areas so as to maximize the distance between construction -related noise sources and noise -sensitive receptors nearest the Project site during the construction period. • All noise producing construction activities, including warming -up or servicing equipment and any preparation for construction, shall be limited to the hours between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. An eight (8) foot tall temporary noise barrier shall be erected or installed along an extent of the northern Project site property line Implementation Timing Prior to the issuance of a demolition permit; During demolition and construction activities Party Responsible for Implementation Project Applicant/Developer Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation City of Arcadia Planning and Building Divisions FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-6 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program where it is adjacentto the nearest noise -sensitive receptor. The barrier can comprise one or more materials of construction and/or assembly, so long as the net sound transmission class (STC) is 15 or better, and thus expected to yield a minimum of 5 dB noise reduction when blocking direct sound paths between onsite Project construction noise -producing activities or equipment and the offsite receptor of concern. The horizontal extent of the installed barrier should be compatible with Caltrans or other industry guidance with respect to minimizing flanking effects around the ends of the barrier, based on both the offsite receptor position and the onsite position or zone of construction activity. Transportation MM -TRA -1. Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the Project Applicant/Developer shall coordinate with the City Engineer to prepare engineering plans that remove and reconfigure the raised median on E. Huntington Drive to extend the eastbound left -turn pocket to at least 75 feet. Plans shall be prepared and implemented to the satisfaction of the City's Public Works Director. The reconfigured median on E. Huntington Drive shall be completed and operational prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for The Derby restaurant. Implementation Timing Prior to issuance of a grading permit MM TRA 2. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the Project Prior to issuance of a Applicant/Developer shall prepare a Parking Signage Plan to clearly building permit identify ingress/egress and circulation for residents and commercial visitors. The Parking Signage Plan shall require that adequate signage be installed within the commercial section of the parking structure directing personal vehicles to use the Gateway Drive egress to exit the Project site, and to prohibit egress through the courtyard to E. Huntington Drive, in order to avoid conflicts with valet operations Party Responsible for Implementation Project Applicant/Developer Project Applicant/ Developer Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation City of Arcadia Planning, Building, and Engineering Divisions; City of Arcadia Public Works Services Department City of Arcadia Planning, Building, and Engineering Divisions FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-7 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program MM -TRA 3. Prior to the issuance of demolition or grading permits, the Project Applicant/Developer shall develop and implement a City - approved Construction Traffic Control Plan. The Plan shall be prepared in accordance with applicable City guidelines and shall address the potential for construction -related vehicular traffic, as well as pedestrian and bicycle circulation disruption in the public right-of- way. The Plan shall describe safe detours and shall include protocols for implementing the following: temporary traffic controls (e.g., a flag person during heavy truck traffic for soil export) to maintain smooth pedestrian and traffic flow; dedicated on-site turn lanes for construction trucks and equipment leaving the site; scheduling of peak construction truck traffic that affects traffic flow on the arterial system to off-peak hours; consolidation of truck deliveries; and/or rerouting of construction trucks away from congested streets or sensitive receptors. Tribal Cultural Resources MM -TCR -1. Retain a Native American Monitor Prior to Commencement of Ground -Disturbing Activities. The Project Applicant/Lead Agency shall retain a Native American Monitor from or approved by the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation. The monitor shall be retained prior to the commencement of any "ground -disturbing activity" for the subject Project at all Project locations (i.e., both on-site and any off-site locations that are included in the Project description/definition and/or required in connection with the Project, such as public improvement work). "Ground - disturbing activity" shall include, but is not limited to, demolition, pavement removal, potholing, auguring, grubbing, tree removal, boring, grading, excavation, drilling, and trenching. A copy of the executed monitoring agreement shall be submitted to the lead agencyyfor to the earlier of the commencement of any Agency Responsible for Party Responsible for Monitoring Implementation Timing Implementation Implementation Prior to issuance of demolition or grading permits Prior to the commencement of any "ground -disturbing activity" for the subject Project at all Project locations, or prior to issuance of any permit necessary to commence a ground -disturbing activity; During ground -disturbing activities Project Applicant/Developer Project Applicant/Developer or City of Arcadia; Native American Monitor from or approved by the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation City of Arcadia Planning, and Engineering Divisions City of Arcadia Planning Division; Native American Monitor from or approved by the Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-8 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Party Responsible for Implementation ground -disturbing activity, or the issuance of any permit necessary to commence a ground -disturbing activity. The monitor will complete daily monitoring logs that will provide descriptions of the relevant ground -disturbing activities, the type of construction activities performed, locations of ground -disturbing activities, soil types, cultural -related materials, and any other facts, conditions, materials, or discoveries of significance to the Tribe. Monitor logs will identify and describe any discovered TCRs, including but not limited to, Native American cultural and historical artifacts, remains, places of significance, etc., (collectively, tribal cultural resources, or "TCR"), as well as any discovered Native American (ancestral) human remains and burial goods. Copies of monitor logs will be provided to the Project Applicant/lead agency upon written request to the Tribe. On-site tribal monitoring shall conclude upon the latter of the following (1) written confirmation to the Kizh from a designated point of contact for the Project Applicant/Lead Agency that all ground - disturbing activities and phases that may involve ground -disturbing activities on the Project site or in connection with the Project are complete; or (2) a determination and written notification by the Kizh to the Project Applicant/lead agency that no future, planned construction activity and/or development/construction phase at the Project site possesses the potential to impact Kizh TCRs. Upon discovery of any TCRs, all construction activities in the immediate vicinity of the discovery shall cease (i.e., not less than the surrounding 50 feet) and shall not resume until the discovered TCR has been fully assessed bythe Kizh monitor and/or Kizh archaeologist. The Kizh will recover and retain all discovered TCRs in the form and/or manner the Tribe deems awroviate. in the Tribe's Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-9 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Party Responsible for Implementation Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation sole discretion, and for any purpose the Tribe deems appropriate, including for educational, cultural and/or historic purposes. MM -TCR -2. Unanticipated Discovery of Human Remains and During ground -disturbing Project County of Los Angeles Associated Funerary Object. Native American human remains are activities Applicant/Developer Department of Medical defined in PRC 5097.98 (d)(1) as an inhumation or cremation, and in Examiner -Coroner; any state of decomposition or skeletal completeness. Funerary California Native American objects, called associated grave goods in Public Resources Code Heritage Commission; City Section 5097.98, are also to be treated accordingto this statute. of Arcadia Development If Native American human remains and/or grave goods discovered or Services Department recognized on the Project site, then all construction activities shall immediately cease. Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 dictates that any discoveries of human skeletal material shall be immediately reported to the County Coroner and all ground -disturbing activities shall immediately halt and shall remain halted until the coroner has determined the nature of the remains. If the coroner recognizes the human remains to be those of a Native American or has reason to believe they are Native American, he or she shall contact, by telephone within 24 hours, the Native American Heritage Commission, and Public Resources Code Section 5097.98 shall be followed. Human remains and grave/burial goods shall be treated alike per California Public Resources Code section 5097.98(d)(1) and (2). Construction activities may resume in other parts of the Project site ata minimum of 200 feet away from discovered human remains and/or burial goods, if the Kizh determines in its sole discretion that resuming construction activities at that distance is acceptable and provides the Project manager express consent of that determination (along with any other mitigation measures the Kizh monitor and/or FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-10 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Party Responsible for Implementation Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation archaeologist deems necessary). fCFQA Guidelines Section 15064.5(f).) Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is the preferred manner of treatment for discovered human remains and/or burial goods. Any historic archaeological material that is not Native American in origin (non -TCR) shall be curated at a public, non-profit institution with a research interest in the materials, such as the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County or the Fowler Museum, if such an institution agrees to accept the material. If no institution accepts the archaeological material, it shall be offered to a local school or historical society in the area for educational purposes. Any discovery of human remains/burial goods shall be kept confidential to prevent further disturbance. MM -TCR -3. Procedures for Burials and Funerary Remains. If it is During ground -disturbing Project Gabrieleno Band of Mission determined, through compliance with Public Resources Code section activities Applicant/Developer Indians - Kizh Nation; City 5097.98 and other applicable regulatory requirements that the of Arcadia Development Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians - Kizh Nation is the Most Likely Services Department Descendant (MLD), the following shall be implemented: • As the MLD, the Koo-nas-gna Burial Policy shall be implemented. To the Tribe, the term "human remains" encompasses more than human bones. In ancient as well as historic times, Tribal Traditions included, but were not limited to, the preparation of the soil for burial, the burial of funerary objects with the deceased, and the ceremonial burning of human remains. • If the discovery of human remains includes four or more burials, the discovery location shall be treated as a cemetery and a separate treatment plan shall be created. FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-11 4.0- MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Agency Responsible for Party Responsible for Monitoring Implementation Timing Implementation Implementation ■ The prepared soil and cremation soils are to same manner as bone fragments that remain intact. Associated funerary objects are objects that, as part of the death rite or ceremony of a culture, are reasonably believed to have been placed with individual human remains either at the time of death or later; other items made exclusively for burial purposes or to contain human remains can also be considered as associated funerary objects. Cremations will either be removed in bulk or by means as necessary to ensure complete recovery of all sacred materials. • In the case where discovered human remains cannot be fully documented and recovered on the same day, the remains will be covered with muslin cloth and a steel plate that can be moved by heavy equipment placed over the excavation opening to protect the remains. If this type of steel plate is not available, a 24-hour guard should be posted outside of working hours. The Tribe will make every effort to recommend diverting the Project and keeping the remains in situ and protected. If the Project cannot be diverted, it may be determined that burials will be removed. ■ In the event preservation in place is not possible despite good faith efforts by the Project Applicant/Developer and/or Landowner, before ground -disturbing activities may resume on the Project site, the Landowner shall arrange a designated site location within the footprint of the Project for the respectful reburial of the human remains and/or ceremonial objects. FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4.12 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program ■ Each occurrence of human remains and associated funerary objects will be stored using opaque cloth bags. All human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects and objects of cultural patrimony will be removed to a secure container on site if possible. These items should be retained and reburied within six months of recovery. The site of reburial/repatriation shall be on the Project site but at a location agreed upon between the Tribe and the landowner at a site to be protected in perpetuity. There shall be no publicity regarding any cultural materials recovered. The Tribe will work closely with the Project's qualified archaeologist to ensure that the excavation is treated carefully, ethically and respectfully. If data recovery is approved by the Tribe, documentation shall be prepared and shall include (at a minimum) detailed descriptive notes and sketches. All data recovery data recovery - related forms of documentation shall be approved in advance by the Tribe. If any data recovery is performed, once complete, a final report shall be submitted to the Tribe and the NAHC. The Tribe does not authorize any scientific study or the utilization of any invasive and/or destructive diagnostics on human remains Utilities and Service Systems MM-UTL-1. Sewer Upgrade Fair Share Payment. Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy permit for the Project, the Applicant/Property Owner shall make a fair share contribution of 9 percent of the Fifth Avenue sewer upgrade project cost, not to exceed $108,000, to the City to help fund upgrading of the sewer line in Fifth Avenue. The Fifth Avenue Sewer Upgrade Project will be included in the City's 2024-25 Capital Improvement Plan budget and the work will be completed by the City's Public Works Services Department by Implementation Timing Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy permit Party Responsible for Implementation Agency Responsible for Monitoring Implementation Project Applicant/Developer City of Arcadia Planning, Building, and Engineering Divisions; City of Arcadia Public Works Services Department FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-13 4.0 - MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Agency Responsible for Party Responsible for Monitoring Implementation Timing Implementation Implementation implemented to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and/or the City Public Works Services Department as appropriate FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-14 INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-15 Table of Contents SECTION PAGE NO. 4 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program..................................................................................................1 FIGURES NO TABLE OF FIGURES EN'T'RIES FOUND. FABLES Table 4-1. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program...............................................................................................2 THIS TABLE OF CONTENTS IS FOR CONS -1 RUCTON ONLY AND WILL. NOT BE INCLUDED IN THOS SECTION PDF. �,NS1 FAD THE CUMULATIVE TOC WILL APPF�R AS ITS OWN SECTION. FINAL EIR FOR THE DERBY MIXED-USE PROJECT 11663.05 OCTOBER 2023 4-16