HomeMy WebLinkAboutAttachment F - Reso 24-4027 (GPA, ZC, and CEQA)RESOLUTION NO. 24-4027
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
DOWNEY RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL (1) APPROVE A
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONE CHANGE (PLN-23-00035),
THEREBY CHANGING THE GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION FROM LOW
DENSITY RESIDENTIAL TO MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL AND
CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION FROM R-1 (SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL) TO R-3-O (MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL OWNERSHIP)
AT 7360 FOSTER BRIDGE BOULEVARD AND (2) ADOPT A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM FOR THE PROJECT
THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Downey does hereby find,
determine, and declare that:
A.On March 20, 2023, the applicant, Steve Armanino (a representative of the Olson
Company), submitted a request for a Site Plan Review, Tentative Tract Map,
Density Bonus, General Plan Amendment, and Zone Change, to construct a new
33-unit townhome condominium ownership development at 7360 Foster Bridge
Boulevard (“Project”).
B.On April 20, 2023, the applicant was issued a letter deeming the application
incomplete.
C.On June 14, 2023, upon review of partially submitted materials, the applicant was
issued a subsequent letter deeming the application incomplete.
D.On September 18, 2023, upon review of partially submitted materials, the applicant
was issued a subsequent letter deeming the application incomplete.
E.On February 14, 2024, upon review of newly submitted supporting documents, the
applicant was issued a subsequent letter deeming the application incomplete.
F.On March 28, 2024, upon review of all required materials submitted , the applicant
was issued a letter deeming the application complete.
G. On April 4, 2024, a notice of public hearing for a General Plan Amendment, Zone
Change, Site Plan Review, Tentative Tract Map, Density Bonus, and Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration was sent to all tenants and property owners
within 500-feet of the subject site, as well as to interested parties and outside
agencies, and the public hearing notice was published in Downey Patriot.
H.The Project is required to undergo an environmental review pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the state CEQA Guidelines.
Through its consultant, the City prepared an Initial Study leading to a Mitigated
Negative Declaration (“IS/MND”) for the Project. On November 22, 2023, in
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 2
accordance with the requirement of the California Environmental Quality Act, a
Notice of Intent to adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration was submitted to the
Los Angeles County Recorder’s Office. The Mitigated Negative Declaration for the
Project reflects the City’s independent judgment and analysis as lead agency for
the Project.
I. Based on the IS/MND, the Project would have no impact or a less than significant
impact on the following environmental issue areas: Agriculture and Forestry
Resources, Air Quality, Energy, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Hydrology and
Water Quality, Land Use and Planning, Mineral Resources, Population and
Housing, Public Services, Recreation, Transportation, Utilities and Service
Systems, and Wildfire. The Project’s impacts on the following issue areas would
be less than significant with the implementation of mitigation: Aesthetics, Biological
Resources, Cultural Resources, Geology, Soils, and Paleontological Resources,
Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Noise and Tribal Cultural Resources. All
impacts would be less than significant after mitigation.
J. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on April 17, 2024,
and after fully considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions it was
motioned and seconded to adopt this resolution. The motion did not carry with a
vote of 2 -2. No additional motions were made or voted upon.
K. On April 18, 2024, the applicant requested the application to be re-agendized and
independently, at a new public hearing, to be presented to the Planning
Commission once again.
L. On April 18, 2024, a notice of public hearing for a General Plan Amendment, Zone
Change, Site Plan Review, Tentative Tract Map, Density Bonus, and Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration was sent to all tenants and property owners
within 500-feet of the subject site, as well as to interested parties and outside
agencies, and the public hearing notice was published in Downey Patriot.
M. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on May 1 , 2024, and
after fully considering all oral and written testimony, facts, and opinions offered at
the aforesaid public hearing adopted this resolution. At the same hearing, the
Planning Commission took the following actions: (1) recommend the City Council
approve a recommend that the City Council approve a Site Plan Review and
Density Bonus to construct a 33-unit residential condominium townhome
ownership development for property located at 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
(Resolution No. 24-4028) and (2) recommend the City Council approve Tentative
Tract Map No. 84168 for townhome purposes on property located at 7360 Foster
Bridge Boulevard (Resolution No. 24-4029)
SECTION 2. In accordance with California Public Resources Code Section 21091 and
State CEQA Guidelines Section 15073, the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for the
Project was circulated for a 30-day public review and comment period from November 22, 2024
through December 22, 2024. The City initiated a 30-day public comment period by filing a Notice
of Completion and Intent with the State Office of Planning and Research. The document was
available for public review at the City of Downey City Hall, City Library, Barbara J. Riley
Community Center, Columbia Space Center, on the City’s website, and at the State Office of
Planning and Research State Clearinghouse webpage (SCH Number 2023110530). At the
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 3
completion of the comment period, comments from a member of the public and one public agency
were received and incorporated as part of the Final Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
(“Final IS/MND”) and are incorporated herein by reference. The mitigation measures set forth in
the MND are fully enforceable and will be implemented using the related Mitigation Monitoring
and Reporting Program, accompanying the Final IS/MND in order to avoid or minimize adverse
environmental impacts identified therein.
SECTION 3. Having considered all of the oral and written evidence presented to it at said
public hearing regarding the General Plan Amendment, and in accordance with Downey Municipal
Code Section 9834.08, the Planning Commission further finds, determines, and declares that:
A. The proposed General Plan Amendment is consistent with all other goals, policies,
programs, and land uses of applicable elements of the General Plan. The application is
found to achieve the policies and goals identified in the City’s recently adopted Housing
Element Update. In particular, the Housing Element states that the City’s role is to facilitate
the redevelopment of underutilized sites. This includes supporting the creation, adoption,
and implementation of General Plan policies, zoning, and development standards and/or
incentives to encourage the construction of various types of housing units. The proposed
General Plan Amendment and Zone Change promote these practices. In addition, the
following goals, policies, and programs are promoted by the application:
Land Use Element
Policy 1.1.2. Provide an appropriate amount of land area to absorb the City’s future
growth.
Program 1.1.2.1. Identify areas to absorb population growth and support
additional housing.
Policy 1.4.3. Promote home ownership.
Program 1.4.3.1. Promote ownership-based housing, such as
condominiums, townhouses, and planned unit developments.
Housing Element
Goal 1. Encourage a variety of housing types to meet the existing and future needs of City
residents.
Policy 1.1. Accommodate a variety of housing types to meet the needs of all
residents.
Policy 1.2. Encourag e and facilitate a range of housing to accommodate the City’s
share of regional housing and special housing needs.
Policy 1.5 Encourage infill development and recycling of land to provide adequate
residential sites
Goal 2. Assist in the development of adequate housing and provide resources to meet the
needs of low- and moderate-income and special needs households.
Policy 2.1 Facilitate housing development of affordable to lower-income
households by providing technical assistance, regulatory incentives and
concessions, and financial resources as funding permits.
Policy 2.2 Encourage the inclusion of housing affordable to lower-income
households when reviewing proposals for new housing developments.
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 4
Goal 3. Address and where legally possible, remove governmental constraints to the
maintenance, improvement, and development of housing, including housing for all income
levels and housing for persons with disabilities.
Policy 3.2 Utilize density bonuses, fee reductions, or other regulatory incentives,
as available and appropriate, to minimize the effect of governmental constraints.
B. The proposed General Plan Amendment will not adversely affect surrounding properties
or the surrounding environment. The proposed development has been found, per the
technical evidence, to not hold the capability of generating impacts that significantly alter
existing conditions. Rather any impacts related to the nearby area are currently
established and not a result of the application. The most prominent existing impact within
the nea rby area is traffic. The Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) drafted as part of the project
review also reveals that existing conditions will not be exacerbated by the proposed
project. It should be noted that the TIA does find that one of the intersections, Suva and
Guatemala, currently operates at an unacceptable level of service of “E”. Therefore, it is
evident that impacts are present and preexisting. The TIA further finds that even with the
project the same level of service grade will remain. The City has conducted and continues
to conduct analysis of the surrounding traffic conditions in an effort to achieve acceptable
levels of service, and is exploring implementing modifications to signaling. Studies
conducted as part of the IS/MND that reflect less than significant impacts include, but are
not limited to, air quality, water quality, and energy.
The matter of privacy has also been raised by nearby residents, and it has been found
that the third story level of the development does have the capability of seeing directly into
adjacent neighboring lots more so than what would be expected of other neighboring
properties. Privacy mitigations have been established in the recommended Conditions of
Approval found in Planning Commission Resolution No. 24-4025. More specifically, prior
to issuance of the first certificate of occupancy, the developer shall install enhanced
landscaping along the northern boundary of the site. Its purpose is to substantially block
views and lighting from the project site onto the residence at 7336 Foster Bridge Boulevard
just north of the site. The City’s Planning Division shall be responsible for ensuring that
the design and location of this enhanced landscaping, primarily trees, is included in the
landscaped plans and is installed prior to the issuance of the first certificate of occupancy.
C. The proposed General Plan Amendment promotes the public health, safety, and general
welfare and serves the goals and purposes of Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code
(Land Use). As stated in Section 3.A of this resolution, the City’s Housing Element within
the General Plan holds goals, policies, and programs advocating for the development of
new housing. The City, through the Housing Element, and the State of California identify
housing as a priority. In addition, a variety of state policies place the responsibility for
facilitating new housing in the hands of local governments. Efforts to facilitate new
housing, as outlined in the Housing Element, come in the form of land use practices such
as general plan amendments and zone changes. Therefore, a finding can be made that
the application serves the goals and purpose of the General Plan. In addition, it is widely
recognized that the creation of housing is found to be in the interest of public health, safety,
and general welfare.
D. The proposed General Plan Amendment will not conflict with provisions of Article IX of the
Downey Municipal Code, including the City’s subdivision ordinance, although, the
amendment will facilitate a housing development that surpasses the Downey Municipal
Code (DMC) prescribed density and development standards. The additional allowances
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 5
are allowed per State Density Bonus Law. In addition, the lot does conform to the minimum
requirements for the corresponding R-3-O zone with applicable concession and waivers.
Lastly, the Tentative Tract Map is processed in compliance with the provisions of the
Subdivision Map Act.
SECTION 4. Having considered all of the oral and written evidence presented to it at said
public hearing regarding the Zone Change, and in accordance with Downey Municipal Code
Section 9830.06, the Planning Commission further finds, determines, and declares that:
A. The zone change is necessary and desirable for the development of the community in
harmony with the objectives of the General Plan and Chapter 8 of Article IX of the Downey
Municipal Code and is in the interests or furtherance of the public health, safety, and
general welfare. The application is found to achieve the policies and goals identified in the
City’s recently adopted Housing Element Update. In particular, the Housing Element
states that the City’s role is to facilitate the redevelopment of underutilized sites. This
includes supporting the creation, adoption, and implementation of General Plan policies,
zoning, and development standards and/or incentives to encourage the construction of
various types of housing units. The proposed General Plan Amendment and Zone Change
promote these practices. In addition, the State of California and the City have identified
the need for housing in general and at affordable levels as a priority. The creation of
housing is found to be in the interest of public health, safety, and general welfare.
B. The zone change will be compatible and complementary to existing conditions and
adjoining property in the surrounding area. Changing the zoning fro m R-1 to R-3-O has
been found, per the technical evidence, to not generate impacts that significantly alter
existing conditions. Rather any impacts related to the nearby area are currently
established and not a result of the application. Traffic impact are chiefly among cause for
concern, but are found to be a less than significant impact pertaining to the traffic
generated by the project. A traffic impact analysis drafted for the project found that traffic
generated by the project will be minimal, generating a daily net increase 158 trips, with an
additional 10 trips at AM peak times and 13 additional trips at PM peak times. This means
within any 15-minute interval between the hours of 7am and 9am (for AM peak periods),
the highest expected traffic volume will be 10 additional vehicles entering or existing the
site, and between 4pm and 6pm (for PM peak periods) a maximum of an additional 13
vehicles would be the highest volume entering or exiting the site. All other 15-minute
intervals between those times would be less than the estimated peak trips. This increased
trip generation is not found to alter the level of service of the nearby intersections and road
segments. Additional studies conducted as part of the IS/MND that reflect less than
significant impacts include, but are not limited to, air quality, water quality, and energy.
The technical evidence supports the statement that the project is compatible and
complimentary.
Wit h regard to compatibility with adjoining property, a mix of uses currently exists within
the nearby vicinity although the area is designated as single family residential. Nearby
uses include a 28-unit multiple family residential property to the south and light industrial
uses to the west and further south. Furthermore, the creation of townhome ownership
housing units will provide a housing type that is consistent with the General Plan goal of
providing a variety of housing opportunity types.
C. The site location and configuration with streets on three sides may not present the best
site plan layout to facilitate the requested project design with the strict adherence to all
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 6
applicable property development standards. However, State Law pertaining to Density
Bonu s allowances of a Concession and various Waivers would permit the development of
the site as prescribed in the Downey Municipal Code. Per the DMC, the total lot size is
sufficient enough to accommodate 30-units and the applicant has exercised State Density
Bonus rights that would allow for the development of a total of 33-units with the application
of waivers of various City development standards. Compliance with State Density Bonus
law would deem the development is of an appropriate size for the subject site. Therefore,
this finding can be made in the affirmative.
D. The site properly relates to streets and highways designed and fully improved to carry the
type and quantity of traffic that is expected to be generated in the area, and utilities exist
or are planned which will adequately serve the property as rezoned. Changing the zoning
from R-1 to R-3-O has been found, per technical studies, to not generate impacts that
significantly alter existing conditions. Increased traffic is not found to alter the level of
service of the nearby intersections and road segments. It should be noted that the nearby
intersection of Suva and Guatemala operates at an unacceptable service level of “E”, and
again the proposed project does not alter that service level grade. Alternatively, the City
has begun analyzing potential improvements to raise the level of service grade to
acceptable levels.
E. The proposed zone change is in general conformance with the General Plan and General
Plan land use designation for the parcel. The Zone Change is filed in conjunction with a
General Plan Amendment that will make both the zoning and General Plan consistent and
conforming.
SECTION 5. Based upon the findings set forth in Sections 1 through 4 of this Resolution,
the Planning Commission of the City of Downey hereby recommends that the City Council
approve a General Plan Amendment and Zone Change (PLN-23-00035), subject to
recommended conditions of approval attached hereto as Exhibit ‘A’, and update the General Plan
Map to modify the designation to MDR, as outlined in Exhibit B of this Resolution, and update the
Zoning Map to rezone the subject property to R-3-O, as outlined in Exhibit C of this Resolution.
SECTION 6. The Planning Commission of the City of Downey further recommends that
the City Council adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration and the related Mitigation Monitoring
and Reporting Program for the Project outlined in Exhibit D of this Resolution.
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 7
SECTION 7. The Secretary shall certify the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 1st day of May , 202 4.
Carrie Uva, Chair
City Planning Commission
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of a Resolution adopted by the Planning
Commission of the City of Downey at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 1st day of May ,
2024, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COMMISSIONERS:
NOES: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:
ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________
John M. Funk
City Attorney
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, Ria Ioannidis, Recording Secretary, do hereby attest to and certify that the foregoing
Resolution is the original resolution adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Downey
at a regular meeting held on May 1, 2024.
Ria Ioannidis
Recording Secretary
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 8
PLN-23-00035
(GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND ZONE CHANGE )
EXHIBIT A - CONDITIONS
PLANNING
1) The approval of this General Plan Amendment and Zone (PLN-23-00035) allows for a
modification to the City’s General Plan Designation from Low Density Residential to
Medium Density Residential and modification to the City’s Zoning Map from Single Family
Residential to Multiple Family Residential for property located at 7360 Foster Bridge
Boulevard.
2) This resolution, Resolution No. 24-2027, shall run concurrently with Resolutions No. 24-
2028 and 24-2029 and is equally subject to the Conditions of approval set forth in said
resolutions.
3) Failure to carry out the approvals and Conditions of Approval detailed in Resolution Nos.
24-4028 and 24 -4029 shall render this resolution null and void.
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 9
EXHIBIT B – GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT MAP
Existing General Plan Land Use Designation
Proposed General Plan Land Use Designation
Low
Density
Residential
Medium
Density
Residential
Low
Density
Residential
Exhibit F
Resolution No. 24-4027
Downey Planning Commission
PLN-23-00035 – 7360 Foster Bridge Boulevard
May 1, 2024 - Page 10
EXHIBIT C – ZONE CHANGE MAP
Existing Zoning
Proposed Zoning
R-1
R-1
R-3-O
Exhibit F
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 1 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Progra m
Project: Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project (VTTM 84168) Date: January 9, 2024
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
AESTHETICS
AES-1: Enhanced Landscaping. Prior to issuance of the first occupancy
permit, the developer shall install enhanced landscaping along the northern
boundary of the site. Its purpose is to substantially block views and lighting
from the project site onto the residence at 7336 Foster Bridge Boulevard just
north of the site. The design and location of this enhanced landscaping,
primarily trees, shall be the responsibility of the City Planning Department.
Prior to
issuance of the
first certificate
of occupancy
Developer and
landscaping
contractor
City Planning staff
verify installation
prior to COO
issued
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Nesting Bird Survey. To the extent feasible, construction activities shall be
scheduled to avoid the nesting season. If construction activities are scheduled
to take place outside the nesting season, all impacts to nesting birds protected
under the MBTA and California Fish and Game Code must be avoided. The
nesting season for most birds in Los Angeles County extends from February
1 through September 1.
If it is not possible to schedule construction activities between September 1
and January 31, then a pre-construction survey for nesting birds will be
conducted by a qualified biologist to ensure that no nests would be disturbed
during project implementation. This survey will be conducted no more than 5
days prior to the initiation of any site disturbance activities and equipment
mobilization, including tree, shrub, or vegetation removal, fence installation,
grading, etc. If project activities are delayed by more than 5 days, an additional
nesting bird survey will be performed. During this survey, the biologist will
inspect all trees and other potential nesting habitats (e.g., trees and shrubs)
in and immediately adjacent to the impact area for nests. Active nesting is
present if a bird is building a nest, sitting in a nest, a nest has eggs or chicks
in it, or adults are observed carrying food to the nest. The results of the
survey(s) will be documented.
If an active nest is found sufficiently close to work areas to be disturbed by
these activities, the qualified biologist will determine the extent of a
construction-free buffer zone to be established around the nest (typically up
to 300 feet for raptors and up to 100 feet for other species), to ensure that no
nests of species protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and
California Fish and Game Code will be disturbed during project
implementation. Within the buffer zone, no site disturbance and mobilization
of heavy equipment, including but not limited to equipment staging, fence
installation, clearing, grubbing, vegetation removal, demolition, and grading
will be permitted until the chicks have fledged.
No more than 3
days prior to the
start of any
ground
disturbance
City Planning
Department
Written proof of
survey prior to
issuance of a
grading permit
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 2 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
A qualified biologist is an individual who has a degree in biological sciences
or related resource management with a minimum of two seasonal years post-
degree experience conducting surveys for nesting birds. During or following
academic training, the qualified biologist will have achieved a high level of
professional experience and knowledge in biological sciences and special-
status species identification, ecology, and habitat requirements.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
CUL-1: Unanticipated Resources. In the event that archaeological
resources (sites, features, or artifacts) are exposed during construction
activities of the project, all construction work occurring within 100 feet of the
find shall immediately stop until a qualified archaeologist, meeting the
Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards, can evaluate
the significance of the find and determine whether or not additional study is
warranted. Depending upon the significance of the find under the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA: 14 CCR 15064.5(f): PRC Section
21083.2), the archaeologist may simply record the find and allow work to
continue. However, if the discovery proves significant under CEQA, additional
work, such as preparation of an archaeological treatment plan, testing, or data
recovery, may be warranted.
During and after
grading
City Planning
Department, project
archaeologist, and
consulting tribe(s) to
determine
disposition of any
unique archeological
resources
City Planning
Department to
document
continued
consultation as
needed with tribal
representatives
GEOLOGY/SOILS/PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES
GEO-1: Supplemental Geotechnical Report. Prior to issuance of a grading
permit, the project proponent shall retain a qualified geotechnical consultant
to prepare a supplemental geotechnical investigation as recommended by the
“Geotechnical Due-Diligence Investigation” prepared by Albus & Associates,
Inc. dated February 6, 2023. The supplemental report shall be certified by the
City Engineer as adequate for the purposes of design, permitting, and
construction.
Prior to issuance
of a grading
permit
Qualified engineer
shall submit a
supplemental
geotechnical report
to the City
Engineering
Department
City Engineer shall
sign off on the
supplemental
report prior to
issuance of the
permit
GEO-2: Conduct Paleontological Sensitivity Training for Construction
Personnel. The project proponent must retain a professional paleontologist,
who meets the qualifications set forth by the Society of Vertebrate
Paleontology, to conduct a Paleontological Sensitivity Training for
construction personnel before commencement of excavation activities. The
training would include a handout and would focus on how to identify
paleontological resources that may be encountered during earthmoving
activities, and the procedures to be followed in such an event; the duties of
paleontological monitors; notification and other procedures to follow upon
discovery of resources; and the general steps a qualified professional
paleontologist would follow in conducting a salvage investigation if one is
necessary.
Prior to the start
of grading or
clearing the site
Developer shall
retain a qualified
paleontologist to
conduct training of
grading and clearing
staff regarding
paleontological
resources
Project
paleontologist shall
prepare a brief
report to the City
Planning
Department
summarizing their
training efforts.
GEO-3: Conduct Periodic Paleontological Spot Checks During Grading
and Earth-Moving Activities. The project proponent must retain a
During grading Project
paleontologist shall
Project
paleontologist shall
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 3 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
professional paleontologist, who meets the qualifications set forth by the
Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, to conduct periodic Paleontological Spot
Checks beginning at depths below six feet from the surface to determine if
construction excavations extend into older Quaternary deposits. After the
initial Paleontological Spot Check, further periodic checks would be
conducted at the discretion of the qualified paleontologist. If the qualified
paleontologist determines that construction excavations have extended into
the older Quaternary deposits, construction monitoring for Paleontological
Resources are required. The project proponent must retain a qualified
paleontological monitor, who would work under the guidance and direction of
a professional paleontologist, who meets the qualifications set forth by the
Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. The paleontological monitor must be
present during all construction excavations (e.g., grading, trenching, or
clearing/grubbing) into the older Pleistocene alluvial deposits. Multiple earth-
moving construction activities may require multiple paleontological monitors.
The frequency of monitoring is based on the rate of excavation and grading
activities, proximity to known paleontological resources and/or unique
geological features, the materials being excavated (native versus artificial fill
soils), and the depth of excavation, and if found, the abundance and type of
paleontological resources and/or unique geological features encountered.
Full-time monitoring can be reduced to part-time inspections if determined
adequate by the qualified professional paleontologist.
conduct
unannounced
checks of project
clearing and grading
to assure proper
procedures of GEO-
2 are being followed
prepare a brief
report to the City
Planning
Department
summarizing the
results of their
monitoring efforts
GEO-4: Cease Ground-Disturbing Activities and Implement Treatment
Plan if Paleontological Resources Are Encountered. In the event that
paleontological resources and or unique geological features are unearthed
during ground-disturbing activities, ground-disturbing activities the
paleontological monitor may halt or divert away from the vicinity of the find so
that the find can be evaluated. A buffer area of at least 50 feet must be
established around the find where construction activities are not allowed to
continue until an appropriate paleontological treatment plan is approved by
the project proponent and the City. Work is allowed to continue outside of the
buffer area. The project proponent and City would coordinate with a
professional paleontologist, who meets the qualifications set forth by the
Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, to develop an appropriate treatment plan
for the resources. Treatment may include implementation of paleontological
salvage excavations to remove the resource along with subsequent laboratory
processing and analysis or preservation in place. At the paleontologist’s
discretion and to reduce construction delay, the grading and excavation
contractor would assist in removing rock samples for initial processing.
During grading If summoned to the
site or observes
paleontological
resources, the
project
paleontologist shall
immediately halt
grading to evaluate
the find and
determine
appropriate action
based on the find
and notify the City
Planning
Department
immediately of the
discovery
Once notified, the
Planning
Department shall
monitor any
recovery activities
in consultation with
the project
paleontologist
GEO-5: Prepare Report Upon Completion of Monitoring Services. If
paleontological resources are found, upon completion of the activities
identified under Mitigation Measure GEO-4, the professional paleontologist
Within 45 days
of the
Paleontologist shall
prepare a summary
report of monitoring
The Planning
Department shall
confirm in email or
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 4 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
would prepare a report summarizing the results of the monitoring and
salvaging efforts, the methodology used in these efforts, and a description of
the fossils collected and their significance. The report would be submitted to
the project proponent, the City, the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles
County, and representatives of other appropriate or concerned agencies to
signify the satisfactory completion of the project and required mitigation
measures.
completion of
grading
activities, any
resources found,
and the disposition
of any resources
writing the receipt
of the project
paleontologist’s
report(s).
HAZARDS/HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HAZ-1: Inadvertent Hazmat Discovery. Prior to issuance of a grading
permit, the project proponent shall retain a qualified environmental
professional (QEP) experienced with remediating hazardous materials from
infill urban construction sites. The QEP must be on-call and summoned to the
site immediately if any potentially hazardous materials are found during
grading. Grading must be halted within 100 feet of an area that appears to
contain hazardous materials. The QEP will halt grading as necessary to
effectively identify the potential contaminated materials, including directing
any sampling and laboratory testing that may be required.
If soils are found to be contaminated at levels that are only slightly in excess
of applicable residential standards, the QEP shall exercise professional
discretion and have the option to coordinate with the grading contractor and
developer to either remove contaminated soil and/or mix the contaminated
soil with clean soil from either onsite or offsite to dilute any contaminants to
below applicable exposure standards for residential development.
Remediated areas must be retested to assure potential contaminant levels
are below applicable residential standards. The results of any testing shall be
provided to the City or other agencies as appropriate and no further action is
needed. Any contaminated soil that must be removed from the site shall be
done by a licensed contractor and hauled to a landfill approved for such
materials. This measure shall be implemented to the satisfaction of the City
Community Development Department.
Prior to issuance
of a grading
permit
During grading
Developer shall
retain a QEP and
provide written proof
to the City Planning
Department
Upon notification or
observing the
discovery of any
unknown materials
during grading, the
Project QEP shall
halt work in that
area and determine
the identify of the
material(s).
If any hazardous
materials are found,
the QEP will
coordinate with the
City, developer, and
LA County Fire
Department, Health
Hazardous Materials
Division (CUPA) if
necessary to
determine the
appropriate
disposition for the
materials.
HAZ-2: ACMs and LBP Survey. Prior to demolition of any structures on the
project site, the developer shall retain qualified licensed environmental
contractor(s) to survey the existing onsite church building and any related
structures for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and Lead-Based Paints
Prior to issuance
of a demolition
permit
Developer shall
retain qualified
personnel to survey
the church buildings
Developer shall
document results of
ACM and LBP
survey and what, if
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 5 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
(LBPs). If the survey finds the presence of any ACMs or LBPs on the site, the
contractor(s) shall follow all relevant guidance from affected regulatory
agencies (e.g., CalEPA, SCAQMD, DTSC, County Health Department, etc.)
in terms of safe removal and disposal of the contaminated materials as
appropriate. The contractor(s) shall prepare and submit a final report to the
City Community Development Department within 30 days after completion of
demolition/removal for ACMs and LBPs on the project site.
for ACMs and LBP
and conduct
appropriate
remediation of such
materials are found
any, remediation
was conducted.
Demolition permit
shall not be issued
until the City
Planning
Department
concurs with its
findings
NOISE
NOI-1: Notify Residential Land Uses of Planned Construction Activities.
This notice shall be provided at least two (2) weeks prior to the start of any
construction activities, describe the noise control measures to be
implemented by the project, and include the name and phone number of the
designated contact for the project proponent and the City of Downey
responsible for handling construction-related noise complaints (per MM NOI-
5). This notice shall be provided to the owner/occupants of residential dwelling
units within 500 feet of construction work areas.
At least two (2)
weeks prior to
the start of any
construction
activities
Developer shall
provide verifiable
notice to local
residential neighbors
within 200 feet of the
project boundaries
of the start of
construction
Developer shall
provide copies of
notices, mailing
lists, methods of
delivery, and
confirmation of
receiving the
notices
NOI-2: Restrict Work Hours. All construction-related work activities,
including material deliveries, shall be subject to the requirements of City
Municipal Code Section 4.50.100. Construction activities, including deliveries,
shall occur only during the hours of 7 AM to 7 PM Monday to Friday and 9 AM
to 6 PM on Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. The project proponent
representative and/or its contractor shall post a sign at all entrances to the
construction site informing contractors, subcontractors, other workers, etc. of
this requirement
During any
construction-
related activities
on the site
Developer shall
certify to the City
they are enforcing
the City’s work hour
restrictions, post
appropriate signs,
and place work hour
limits on
construction plans
City Inspectors as
appropriate to
monitor work hour
limits as necessary
NOI-3: Construction Equipment Selection, Use, and Noise Control
Measures. The following measures shall apply to construction equipment
used at the project site:
a. Contractors shall use the smallest size equipment capable of safely
completing work activities.
b. Construction staging shall occur as far away from residential land uses as
possible given site and active work constraints.
c. Electric hook-ups shall be provided for stationary equipment (e.g., pumps,
compressors, welding sets). If it is not feasible to provide an electric hook-
up, the project proponent shall ensure mitigation measures 3a and 3d are
implemented.
d. All stationary noise generating equipment shall be shielded and located
as far as possible from residential land uses given site and active work
constraints. Shielding may consist of existing vacant structures or a three-
Prior to and
during any
construction
activities on the
site
Developer shall
certify in writing they
will implement these
procedures during
all work activities.
Notes shall be
placed on
construction plans to
this effect and
initialed by all sub-
contractors
City Inspectors
shall verify this
compliance with
unannounced
inspections during
work activities
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 6 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
or four-sided enclosure provided the structure/enclosure breaks the line
of sight between the equipment and the receptor and provides for proper
ventilation and equipment operation.
e. Heavy equipment engines shall be equipped with standard noise
suppression devices such as mufflers, engine covers, and
engine/mechanical isolators, mounts, and be maintained in accordance
with manufacturer’s recommendations during active construction
activities.
f. Pneumatic tools shall include a suppression device on the compressed
air exhaust.
g. No radios or other amplified sound devices shall be audible beyond the
property line of the construction site.
NOI-4: Implement Construction Activity Noise Control Measures. The
following measures shall apply to project construction activities:
a. Demolition: Activities shall be sequenced to take advantage of existing
shielding/noise reduction provided by existing buildings or parts of
buildings and methods that minimize noise and vibration, such as sawing
concrete blocks, prohibiting on-site hydraulic breakers, crushing or other
pulverization activities, shall be employed during project construction.
b. Demolition, Site Preparation, Grading, and Foundation Work: During all
demolition, site preparation, grading, and structure foundation work
activities, a physical noise barrier shall be installed and maintained
around the site perimeter to the maximum extent feasible given site
constraints and access requirements along the north boundary of the
project site*. The noise barrier shall extend to a height of eight (8) feet
above grade. Potential barrier options capable of reducing construction
noise levels could include, but are not limited to:
i. A concrete, wood, or other barrier installed at-grade (or mounted to
structures located at-grade, such as a K-Rail), and consisting of a
solid material (i.e., free of openings or gaps other than weep holes)
that has a minimum rated transmission loss value of 20 dB.
ii. Commercially available acoustic panels or other products such as
acoustic barrier blankets that have a minimum sound transmission
class (STC) or transmission loss value of 20 dB.
iii. Any combination of noise barriers and commercial products capable
of achieving required construction noise reductions during
demolition, site preparation, grading, and structure foundation work
activities.
During all
project
construction
activities as
appropriate
Developer shall
certify to the City
these measures will
be implemented by
all contractors and
sub-contractors on
the site
City Inspectors
shall verify this
compliance with
unannounced
inspections during
work activities
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 7 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
iv. The noise barrier may be removed following the completion of
building foundation work (i.e., it is not necessary once framing and
typical vertical building construction begins provided no other
grading, foundation, etc. work is still occurring on-site).
NOI-5: Prepare a Construction Noise Complaint Plan. The project proponent
shall prepare a Construction Noise Complaint Plan that shall:
a. Identify the name and/or title and contact information (including phone
number and email) for a designated project and City representative
responsible for addressing construction-related noise issues.
b. Includes procedures describing how the designated project
representative will receive, respond, and resolve construction noise
complaints.
c. At a minimum, upon receipt of a noise complaint, the project
representative shall notify the City contact, identify the noise source
generating the complaint, determine the cause of the complaint, and take
steps to resolve the complaint.
Prior to issuance
of any permit for
any construction
activities
Developer, in
consultation with
their noise
consultant, shall
prepare a CNCP for
review and approval
by the City Planning
Department
The City Planning
Department shall
approve the CNCP
prior to issuance of
any work permits
for the project
Tribal Cultural Resources
TCR-1: Tribal Monitor. The project applicant/lead agency shall retain a
Native American Monitor from or approved by the Gabrieleño 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
agency prior to the commencement of any 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
Prior to issuance
of a grading
permit
During grading
Developer shall
submit written
verification of NA
tribal monitoring
agreement(s)
Tribal monitor(s) to
observe grading and
confirm completion
to the City Planning
Department
Planning
Department verify
signed
agreement(s) in
place
Planning
Department confirm
receipt of tribal
completion notice
Attachment F (Exhibit D)
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Plan 8 City of Downey – Foster Bridge and Bluff Community Residential Project
Impact Category/
Mitigation Measures
Implementation
Timing
Responsible
Monitoring Party
Monitoring/
Reporting Method
Compliance
Verification
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.
TCR-2: Unanticipated Discoveries. Upon discovery of any Tribal Cultural
Resources (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.
During grading Tribal monitor(s)
and/or archaeologist
communicate
discovery of
resources within one
hour of discovery to
Planning
Department
Planning
Department confirm
tribal notification
and consult with
monitoring tribe as
to the disposition of
the discovered
resource
TCR-3: Human Remains. 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. If Native American human remains and/or
grave goods are discovered or recognized on the project site, then Public
Resource Code 5097.9 as well as Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5
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).
Preservation in place (i.e., avoidance) is the preferred manner of treatment
for discovered human remains and/or burial goods. Any discovery of human
remains/burial goods shall be kept confidential to prevent further disturbance.
During grading Tribal monitor(s)
and/or archaeologist
communicate
discovery of remains
within one hour of
discovery to
Planning
Department
Planning
Department confirm
tribal notification
and consult with
monitoring tribe as
to the disposition of
the discovered
remains
* This minor change was made to correct an inaccurate statement in the draft IS/MND noise section that the proposed constructio n noise barrier was needed around the entire site since the noise
study determined the barrier was actually needed only on the north side of the site to meet City noise standards. This change is documented in the Final IS/MND Memo dated January 9, 2024.
Attachment F (Exhibit D)