HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution No. 5600RESOLUTION NO. 5600
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CERTIFYING AND ADOPTING THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
FOR THE DOWNEY COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council hereby finds, determines, and declares that:
A. The City of Downey proposes to adopt a comprehensive update and revision of
its 1973 General Plan and the proposed draft General Plan has been determined
to constitute a project ( "Project ") pursuant to both the California Environmental
Quality Act of 1970, as amended, and the City of Downey Environmental
Guidelines. In adopting this Resolution, the Council is taking action on the EIR
only to the extent it addresses issues relating to the Land Use, Circulation,
Housing, Conservation, Safety, Noise and Open Space /Recreation Chapters of
the General Plan. The Council in adopting this Resolution takes no action with
respect to the Design and Economic Development Chapters of the General Plan
and will consider this EIR as it pertains to the Design and Economic
Development Chapters and will consider said Chapters themselves at a later
date. 'Project' as used in this Resolution shall mean the proposed General Plan
amendments described in this paragraph except for the Design and Economic
Development Chapters.
B. An Environmental Impact Report ( "EIR ") has been prepared to address the
environmental effects and mitigation measures associated with the proposed
Project.
C. The Draft Environmental Impact Report ( "DEIR "), State Clearinghouse
No. 91081027, evaluated the probable and potential environmental effects of
—
the actions.
D. The DEIR was prepared in accordance with CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines,
and the City of Downey's Environmental Procedures and was circulated for
public review in accordance with CEQA and State and City CEQA Guidelines.
E. Written and oral comments on the DEIR were received from the public and
responsible agencies during and after the review period.
F. Such documents and testimony were responded to through a Response to
Comments document and various staff reports submitted to the Commission as
required by CEQA.
G. The Final Environmental Impact Report ( "FEIR ") has been completed in
compliance with CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines, and the City of Downey
Environmental Procedures.
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H. The Planning Commission conducted duly noticed public hearings on the Project
and the DEIR on December 18, 1991, January 22, 1992, and February 12,
1992, at which time all public testimony with respect to the Project and DEIR
was received.
I. The City Council conducted duly noticed public hearings on the Project and the
FEIR on August 11 and August 25, 1992, at which time all public testimony
with respect to the Project and FEIR was received.
J. The City Council has reviewed and considered all environmental documentation
comprising the FEIR and has found that the FEIR considers all environmental
effects of the proposed Project.
L. Section 21081 of CEQA and Section 15091 of the CEQA Guidelines require
that the City Council make one or more of the following findings prior to
approval of a project for which a FEIR has been completed, identifying one or
more significant effects of the project, along with a statement of facts
supporting each finding:
FINDING 1 - Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into
the project which mitigate or avoid the significant environmental effects thereof
as identified in the FEIR.
FINDING 2 - Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and
jurisdiction of another public agency and not the agency making the finding.
Such findings have been adopted by other such agency or can and should be
adopted by such other agency.
FINDING 3 - Specific economic, social, or other considerations make infeasible
the mitigation measures or other project alternatives identified in the FEIR.
Section 15093 (a) of the Guidelines requires the City Council to balance the
benefits of a proposed project against its unavoidable environmental risks in
determining whether to approve the project.
Section 15093 (b) requires, where the decision of the City Council allows the
occurrence of significant effects which are identified in the FEIR but are not
mitigated, the City Council must state in writing the reasons to support its
action, based on the FEIR or other information in the record.
M. The City Council has reviewed and considered all of the environmental
documentation prepared to evaluate the proposed Project, including all chapters
of the FEIR, and has considered the mitigation measures therein.
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SECTION 2. The City Council hereby adopts the Statement of Facts attached hereto
as Attachment A and incorporated herein by this reference. The City Council makes
the findings contained in the Statement of Facts with respect to significant effects
identified in the FEIR and finds that each fact in support of the findings is true and
based upon substantial evidence in the record, including the FEIR.
SECTION 3. The City Council finds that the FEIR has identified all significant
environmental effects of the Project and that there are no known potential
environmental effects not addressed in the FEIR.
SECTION 4. The City Council finds that all significant effects of the Project are set
forth in the Statement of Facts and the FEIR.
SECTION 5. The City Council finds that although the FEIR identifies certain significant
environmental effects that will result if the project is approved, all significant effects
that can be feasibly mitigated or avoided have been reduced to an acceptable level by
the imposition of mitigation measures on the approved Project.
SECTION 6. A Summary of Mitigation Measures is attached hereto as Attachment B
and incorporated herein by this reference. The City Council finds that potential
mitigation measures or project alternatives not incorporated in the project were
rejected as infeasible, based upon specific economic, social, or other considerations as
set forth in the Statement of Facts and the FEIR.
SECTION 7. The City Council finds that the significant impacts of the Project, as
identified in the Statement of Facts, that have not been reduced to a level of
insignificance have been substantially reduced in their impacts by the imposition of
mitigation measures.
SECTION 8. In accordance with the requirements of Public Resources Code Section
21081.6, a Mitigation Monitoring Plan has been developed for the project in
accordance with said section which is attached hereto as Attachment C and
incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in full. Said Mitigation
Monitoring Plan is hereby approved and adopted the Project.
SECTION 9. Based upon the foregoing findings and determinations the City Council
hereby certifies and adopts the FEIR, which is a section of the Downey General Plan,
since the actions are complete and adequate, and the EIR was prepared in compliance
with the requirements of CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines and the City of Downey
Environmental Procedures.
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SECTION 10. Due to potential conflicts of interest, Councilmembers Brazelton and
McCaughan did not participate in the Council's consideration of nor in the approvals as
set forth in this Resolution of the land use designations nor of the other provisions of
the General Plan and its amendments pertaining to or affecting the "Historical
Downtown Area" as described and delineated in the General Plan. Due to potential
conflicts of interest, Councilmember Brazelton also did not participate in the Council's
consideration of nor in the approvals as set forth in this Resolution of the land use
designations nor of the other provisions of the General Plan and its amendments
pertaining to Area 10 on Stewart and Gray Road, as more fully described and
delineated in the General Plan.
SECTION 11. The Director of Community Development is hereby directed to file a
Notice of Determination with the County of Los Angeles and with the State Office of
Planning and Research.
SECTION 12. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 25th DAY OF AUGUST, 1992.
Diane P. Boggs, Mir(ibir
ATTEST:
Judith E. McDonr' ;II, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES 1 ss.
CITY OF DOWNEY
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Resolution was duly and regularly passed
and adopted by the City Council of the City of Downey at a regular meeting thereof
held on the 25th day of August, 1992, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: 5 COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: 0 COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSTAIN: 0 COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: 0 COUNCILMEMBERS:
Riley, Brazelton, Lawrence, McCaughan, Boggs
None
None
None
Judith E. McDonnell, City Clerk
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I. BACKGROUND
The possible findings are:
ATTACHMENT A
CEQA STATEMENT OF FINDINGS AND FACTS,
DOWNEY CITY COUNCIL
DOWNEY COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS WHICH CANNOT BE AVOIDED IF THE
PROPOSED PROJECT IS IMPLEMENTED, FINDINGS WITH RESPECT TO SAID
EFFECTS, AND STATEMENT OF FACTS IN SUPPORT THEREOF, ALL WITH RESPECT
TO THE CERTIFICATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE
ADOPTION OF THE DOWNEY COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE, DOWNEY,
CALIFORNIA, EXCEPT FOR THE DESIGN AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CHAPTERS.
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines,
(Guidelines) promulgated thereto provide:
"No public agency shall approve or carry out a project for which and EIR has been
completed 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.
1. Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the
project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant effects as
identified by the EIR.
2. Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction
of another public 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, social, or other considerations make infeasible the
mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR (Section 15091 of the
Guidelines).
The Downey City Council is considering approval of the Downey Comprehensive
General Plan Update. Because the proposed action constitutes a project under CEQA
and the CEQA Guidelines, the Downey City Council has prepared an Environmental
Impact Report (EIR). The EIR has identified certain significant effects which may occur
as a result of the project, or on a cumulative basis in conjunction with the other past,
present, or reasonably foreseeable future projects. Further, the City Council desires to
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approve this project and, after determining that the EIR is complete and has been
prepared in compliance with CEQA and the Guidelines, the findings set forth herein are
made:
INITIAL STUDY
1. Earth
g.
FINDINGS OF FACT IN SUPPORT OF FINDINGS FOR
SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF THE PROJECT
II. EFFECTS DETERMINED TO BE INSIGNIFICANT
The City of Downey Community Development Department prepared an Initial Study to
identify effects of the proposed project which are not potentially significant. Those
topics which were determined not to be significant are stated below:
a. The General Plan itself will not result in unstable earth conditions or in
changes in geologic substructures.
b. Disruptions, displacements, compaction or overcovering of soils will
result from the development envisioned in the General Plan.
c. No major alterations to the topography are anticipated to occur.
d. Since there are no known unique geologic or physical features affected
by this Plan, the project would not result in the destruction, covering or
modification of unique features.
e. New construction envisioned by the Plan might cause a change in the
wind or soil erosion; however, these will be mitigated by compliance with
applicable City ordinance restrictions.
f. Since rivers in Downey have concrete beds and levees, the Plan will not
result in change to any of these features.
Since the Plan anticipates more economic development, with potentially
more people employed in the City, more people could be exposed to
seismic hazards; however, these are mitigated by compliance with the
Uniform Building Code and, in an emergency, enforcement of the
Emergency Preparedness Plan.
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August 11, 1992
2. Air
3. Water
4. Plant Life
a. An increase in traffic created by more economic development could
generate substantial air emissions or deterioration of the ambient air
quality.
b. Objectional odors might be created by the increased traffic.
c. There will be no alteration of air movement or any change in climate
generated by the Plan.
a. The Plan will not result in change in currents or the course of direction of
water movements in Downey.
b. Absorption rates, drainage patterns and the rate and amount of surface
runoff might be changed by the envisioned new construction; however,
these will be mitigated by compliance with the appropriate City
ordinances.
c through h. Water flows, amounts of surface water, alterations to flow of
ground water will not be changed by the policies in the Plan. Additional
water might be available for public use since the Plan required that the
City use recycled water for landscape irrigation in public parks and street
medians.
i. Since economic development will bring more people into Downey to shop
and work, more people might be exposed to flood hazards; however,
compliance with the Federal Emergency Management Act will mitigate
the hazards.
a through d. The Plan will not change the diversity of species in Downey, or
reduce the numbers of unique, rare or endangered species; the Plan
requires a street tree landscaping program. There will be no reduction in
acreage of agricultural crops since Downey is built out and there are no
agricultural crops remaining in Downey.
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August 11, 1992
5. Animal Life
6. Noise
8. Land Use
a through d. There are no known rare or endangered species in Downey; nor
will there be a change in the diversity of species, introduction of new
species or a barrier to the migration or movement of animals created by
this General Plan. Downey has no fish or wildlife habitats.
a. The Plan will not result in an increase in existing noise levels since the
Noise Chapter of the revised Plan has policies and programs to maintain
or decrease noise throughout the City.
b. Increased construction anticipated under this Plan might result in
exposures of people to severe noise levels; however, this would be short -
term and mitigated by compliance with the appropriate City ordinance
restrictions.
7. Liaht and Glare
Light and glare in Downey is primarily produced by street lights and
outdoor security lights. More light and glare might be produced as a
result of anticipated development; however, these will be examined and
mitigated when individual projects are reviewed.
a. The Plan will result in substantial alteration of the planned land use of the
City of Downey; implementation of the General Plan Land Use policies
will result in land use changes on arterials and secondary highways. A
detailed discussion of land use changes is provided in the Environmental
Impact Report.
b. The Plan will have a substantial impact on surrounding land uses because
land use designations in the City have been changed; the impacts are
analyzed in the Environmental Impact Report.
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August 11, 1992
9. Natural Resources
Increased development might result in increase in the rate of use of
natural resources; this increase is not considered significant. Open space
resources will not be adversely affected by the General Plan. Open
Space in Downey will be preserved through implementation of the
policies of the Open Space and Recreation Chapter of the Plan.
10. Risk of Upset
a and b. Risk of upset in Downey refers to the potential danger of an explosion
or accidental release of hazardous substances. Risk of upset is mitigated
by the implementation of the policies of the Hazardous Waste
Management Chapter of the Plan and by continually updating the City's
Emergency Preparedness Plan.
11. Population
12. Housing
Distribution and location of the human population of Downey has been
altered slightly by the Plan. The Housing Chapter and the Land Use
Chapter provide a thorough discussion of demographic characteristics
and trends in Downey. The 1990 Census estimates that Downey's
population is now 91,444, and is not expected to increase significantly
over the 20 year life of the Plan.
Existing housing will be affected as the distribution and location of
low /medium density and medium density residential housing has been
changed slightly in the Plan; however, the effects are considered
beneficial to the population. These potential impacts are discussed
further in the Environmental Impact Report.
13. Transoortation /Circulation
a through f. Implementation of land use policy could affect the existing
transportation /circulation system in Downey. When changes are made in
the type and /or intensity of land use, there is a change in travel patterns.
A traffic study has been prepared and is analyzed in the Circulation
Chapter of the Plan. The transportation /circulation system in Downey
will be affected by the opening of the 1 -105 Freeway, which will also
have a light rail system with a stop in Downey.
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August 11, 1992
14. Public Services
15. Energy
16. Utilities
17. Human Health
18. Aesthetics
19. Recreation
The Plan anticipates new residential, commercial and industrial land uses
which will alter public services. Fire and Police protection will be
improved by the policies of the Safety Chapter, school population will
increase slightly with the minor increase in population, parks will be
preserved and maintained under the policies of the Open
Space /Recreation Chapter and other public facilities such as roads, will
be maintained through Capital Improvements Programs.
Increased demand upon energy sources by the policies of the Plan are
not considered significant. Any increased demand would be a small
portion of the total energy use throughout the Los Angeles Basin.
The Plan's policies would alter the present utility system as the water
flow for fires and the storm drain system will be upgraded, the solid
waste stream will decrease and the City's fresh water consumption will
decline when the reclaimed water system is in place.
Goals and policies throughout the General Plan emphasize the protection
of residents from the hazards associated with living in an urban
environment such as Downey.
Design Review of proposed projects and the preservation and increase in
trees in Downey will help ensure that aesthetic impacts are beneficial to
the community.
The implementation of policies and programs of the Open
Space /Recreation and Conservation Chapters of the Plan ensure that
recreational opportunities will be increased with the addition of bike
trails, the reconstruction of the Rio Hondo Golf Course and the
maintenance of the park system.
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August 11, 1992
20. Cultural Resources
Implementation of the policies of the Historical Resources section of the
Open Space /Recreation Chapter of the Plan ensure that significant
historical and archeological resources will be inventoried and preserved.
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August 11, 1992
III. EFFECTS DETERMINED TO BE MITIGABLE TO A LEVEL OF INSIGNIFICANCE
Long -term implementation of the General Plan may result in the following
environmental impacts, which are mitigated by policies of the Plan.
A. LAND USE: Although Downey is built -out, building will continue as properties
recycle and buildings are replaced. The Plan predicts a 13 percent increase in
population, due mostly to an increase in household size. The impacts of a population
increase over existing conditions is mitigated by policies in the Land Use, Circulation
and Housing Chapters.
Findings
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Suoport of Findinas
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
The Land Use, Housing, Noise, Safety and Circulation Chapters will serve to minimize
land use impact, devise a logical pattern and pace of land use development, improve
traffic circulation, and retain the existing high - quality residential character of Downey.
Relevant policies include:
Land Use Chapter:
Housing Chapter:
Noise Chapter:
Safety Chapter:
Circulation Chapter:
All policies
All policies
All policies
All policies
All policies
Land Use Policies
The City shall:
1.1.1 Encourage owner- occupied housing development.
1.1.2 Regulate residential density to reflect minimum lot sizes appropriate for
the respective neighborhoods.
1.1.3 Promote property maintenance.
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August 11, 1992
1.2.1 Strive to retain the relative balance of land uses.
1.3.1 Encourage quality construction on development as properties recycle.
1.3.2 Encourage adaptive re -use of older structures.
1.3.3 Create areas for mixed land uses.
1.3.4 Continually review areas in the process of transition.
1.4.1 Eliminate inconsistent zoning.
1.4.2 Create neighborhood centers, or "nodes ", at designated intersections.
1.4.3 Revise the zoning ordinance to include development and performance
standards.
1.4.4 Examine the impacts of child care needs.
1.5.1 Capitalize on the four freeways that virtually surround the community;
the 1 -5, 1 -605, 1 -710 and the 1 -105.
1.5.2 Capitalize on the regional opportunities offered by Downey's location and
accessibility.
1.5.3 Market the community at development conferences and when other
opportunities arise.
1.6.1 Monitor, review and comment on regional plans, as they relate to the
City's General Plan
1.6.2 Monitor, review and comment on activities of neighboring cities, as they
relate to the City's General Plan.
1.6.3 Market the City's potential for commercial and manufacturing uses.
1.6.4 Continue to advise the Public Utilities Commission of its concerns
regarding railroad traffic through the community.
1.7.1 Designate some of these other public agency areas as Special Planning
Areas.
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August 11, 1992
Housing Policies
The City shall:
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.2.1
Continue aggressive housing rehabilitation programs.
Continue "proactive" code enforcement programs.
Phase out zone exception cases which have severely impacted residential
neighborhoods.
3.2.2 Continue to enforce ordinances which separate residential uses from
commercial and office uses.
3.2.3 Preserve the arbitrary setbacks provision of the Code.
3.3.1 Annual surveys should be performed, keeping Downey's application fees
in parity with surrounding jurisdictions.
3.3.2 Continue the policy of "thirty day turn around" for residential applications
which require public hearings.
3.3.3 Continue the policy of supplemental plan checking and inspection during
periods of increased building activity. Three week first check and one
week recheck is ideal. Twenty four hour turn around for inspection is
encouraged.
3.4.1 Residential specific plans should provide specialized development
standards for setbacks, lot coverage, garage requirements and property
maintenance.
3.4.2 Where possible, residential specific plans should include implementation
programs, focusing on funding and incentives encouraging neighborhood
improvements.
3.5.1 Encourage housing developers to work with the local community,
including making units available to residents.
3.5.2 Encourage the State to make surplus CalTrans property available to
residents.
3.5.3 Continue to enforce ordinance provisions limiting the conversion of
apartments to condominiums.
3.5.5 Encourage private lenders to provide alternative financing to make home
ownership available to a greater number of households.
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August 11, 1992
3.5.4 Cooperate with Los Angeles Department of Community Development,
Housing and Urban Development and non profit organizations seeking to
expand the supply of affordable housing.
3.5.6 Support and encourage sweat equity and limited equity housing
programs.
3.6.1 Continue policy of keeping development exactions and fees at parity with
surrounding cities.
3.6.2 Mitigation measures should be explored and added to projects which do
not add substantial costs, either to new residents, or city services.
3.7.1 Continue the 20% housing set aside for low and moderate income
families.
3.7.2 Require developers to address housing relocation and replacement issues
early in the project development and approval process.
3.7.3 Encourage the redevelopment agency, when assisting in public housing,
to participate in rent limitation agreements.
3.8.1 Through density bonuses and fee reductions, encourage affordable
housing in planned developments.
3.8.2 Prohibit housing development on land which is environmentally
unsuitable.
3.8.3 Continue to work with FEMA to modify the preliminary flooding map.
Encourage FEMA to adopt the lowest insurance rates possible.
3.9.1 Encourage the use of barrier -free architecture in new housing
developments.
3.9.2 Encourage the construction of senior housing.
3.9.3 Support local, non - profit agencies that serve the homeless.
3.9.4 Support fair housing legislation.
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August 11, 1992
3.9.5 Support legislation in Congress to make prepayment of HUD loans more
difficult.
3.9.6 Encourage non - profit groups to purchase the 62 unit federally assisted
project if the present owners choose to prepay the HUD loan.
Noise Policies
The City shall:
6.1.1 Require noise reduction measures in all new construction where
necessary.
6.1.2 Require that noise sensitive land uses be located away from major noise
sources.
6.1.3 The City's noise standards shall be 45 dB CNEL interior and 60 dB CNEL
exterior.
6.2.1 Work with the railroad companies in developing and implementing noise
reduction methods in their operations.
6.2.2 Work with the Federal Aviation Administration, the Division of
Aeronautics and the Los Angeles County Airport Land Use Commission
to develop guidelines for addressing airplane and helicopter noise.
6.2.3 Work with the Southern Pacific Railroad line and developers to help
integrate the railroad with its surroundings.
6.3.1 Enforce the existing noise ordinance and revise the ordinance, when
necessary, to address changes in technology.
Safety Policies
The City shall:
5.1.1
5.2.1
5.2.2
5.2.3
Prepare for the catastrophe that will result from a major quake.
Participate in the FEMA program.
Support the Army Corps of Engineers' projects.
Evaluate and establish a program regarding drainage systems as they
pertain to future growth.
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August 11, 1992
5.3.1 Maintain the priority program established in the 1988 Montgomery Water
Study Update for upgrading the water system.
Develop programs to protect life and property from fire.
Reduce crime in Downey.
Monitor the existing landfill and implement appropriate safety measures.
5.3.2
5.4.1
5.5.1
5.6.1
5.7.1 Adopt a Master Plan for installation of street lights and sidewalks
throughout the City.
5.8.1 Request Southern Pacific Railroad cooperation in facilitating access to
Downey Community Hospital.
Circulation Policies
The City shall:
Maintain the current multi- hazard function emergency preparedness plan
to include the following threats:
1) major earthquakes 2) hazardous materials incidents 3) eminent or
actual flooding 4) eminent or actual dam failure 5) aircraft accident and
6) war.
2.1.1 Promote traffic safety by maintaining or improving the level of service on
major streets, where possible.
2.2.2
2.3.1
2.4.1
2.2.1 Pursue the standard for transportation corridors with the City that
correlate with land use demands.
Continue to promote traffic safety to protect residential neighborhoods.
Comply with provisions of the Congestion Management Plan.
Consider the expansion of its existing intracommunity transit service to
better accommodate seniors, the handicapped, school children and the
general public.
2.4.2 Coordinate with other public transit authorities to assure their planning
efforts will meet the changing and increasing public transit needs of the
City.
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August 11, 1992
2.5.1 Work with the Southern Pacific Railroad Line and developers to help
integrate the railroad with its surroundings.
2.5.2 Request Southern Pacific Railroad cooperation in facilitating access to
Downey Community Hospital.
2.6.1 Encourage the safe and efficient movement of truck traffic through the
City.
2.6.2 Land uses promoting the use of heavy trucks should be discouraged
within the City.
2.7.1 Encourage walking and bicycling as attractive alternatives to vehicular
transportation.
2.7.2 Require a Master Plan of street lights and sidewalks throughout the City.
2.8.1 The City's seven -year Capital Improvements Program should address the
following improvements, as necessary:
Street systems
Sewer facilities
Water supply
Drainage facilities
Other major capital investments necessary to sustain the City's
growth and operation.
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August 11, 1992
B. CIRCULATION: New development and increased population under the General Plan
will increase traffic slightly on area roadways. Traffic impacts will be reduced when
the goals and policies of the Circulation Element are implemented.
Findings
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Support of Findings.
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
All of the goals and policies in the Circulation Chapter serve as mitigation measures for
circulation impacts.
Circulation Chapter: All policies
Circulation Policies
The City shall:
2.1.1 Promote traffic safety by maintaining or improving the level of service on
major streets, where possible.
2.2.2
2.3.1
2.4.1
2.2.1 Pursue the standard for transportation corridors with the City that
correlate with land use demands.
Continue to promote traffic safety to protect residential neighborhoods.
Comply with provisions of the Congestion Management Plan.
Consider the expansion of its existing intracommunity transit service to
better accommodate seniors, the handicapped, school children and the
general public.
2.4.2 Coordinate with other public transit authorities to assure their planning
efforts will meet the changing and increasing public transit needs of the
City.
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August 11, 1992
2.5.1 Work with the Southern Pacific Railroad Line and developers to help
integrate the railroad with its surroundings.
2.5.2 Request Southern Pacific Railroad cooperation in facilitating access to
Downey Community Hospital.
2.6.1 Encourage the safe and efficient movement of truck traffic through the
City.
2.6.2 Land uses promoting the use of heavy trucks should be discouraged
within the City.
2.7.1 Encourage walking and bicycling as attractive alternatives to vehicular
transportation.
2.7.2 Require a Master Plan of street lights and sidewalks throughout the City.
2.8.1 The City's seven -year Capital Improvements Program should address the
following improvements, as necessary:
Street systems
Sewer facilities
Water supply
Drainage facilities
Other major capital investments necessary to sustain the City's
growth and operation.
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August 11, 1992
C. AIR QUALITY: Air quality is a regional issue. Adoption of the Downey General
Plan will not immediately affect air quality in Downey and the surrounding region.
Over time, however, specific new developments, and the construction thereof, will
contribute to existing pollution.
Findinas
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Sunoort of Findinas
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
Conservation Chapter:
Open Space Chapter:
Circulation Chapter:
Land Use Chapter:
Conservation Policies
The City shall:
4.4.2 Develop a policy for the protection, replacement and preservation of
— public and private mature specimen trees.
4.5.1 Develop a policy for planting, removal, replacement and maintenance of
trees in street parkways and on public property under City control.
Open Space Policies
The City shall:
7.1.1
7.2.1
7.2.2
7.2.6
Policies 4.4.2, 4.5.1
Policies 7.1.1, 7.2.1, 7.2.2, 7.2.6
Policies 2.1.1, 2.3.1, 2.4.1, 2.4.2, 2.6.1, 2.6.2, 2.7.1
Policies 1.1.2, 1.3.3, 1.4.2, 1.6.1, 1.6.2
Adopt programs to preserve existing open space.
Develop new parks in the areas of greatest need.
Develop a connector bike trail.
Require large commercial, industrial and residential developments to
establish usable open space in their projects.
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Circulation Policies
The City shall:
2.1.1 Promote traffic safety by maintaining or improving the level of service on
major streets, where possible.
2.3.1 Comply with provisions of the Congestion Management Plan.
2.4.1 Consider the expansion of its existing intracommunity transit service to
better accommodate seniors, the handicapped, school children and the
general public.
2.4.2 Coordinate with other public transit authorities to assure their planning
efforts will meet the changing and increasing public transit needs of the
City.
2.6.1
2.6.2
2.7.1
Land Use Policies
1.3.3
1.4.2
1.6.1
Encourage the safe and efficient movement of truck traffic through the
City.
Land uses promoting the use of heavy trucks should be discouraged
within the City.
Encourage walking and bicycling as attractive alternatives to vehicular
transportation.
The City shall:
1.1.2 Regulate residential density to reflect minimum lot sizes appropriate for
the respective neighborhoods.
Create areas for mixed land uses.
Create neighborhood centers, or "nodes ", at designated intersections.
Monitor, review and comment on regional plans, as they relate to the
City's General Plan
1.6.2 Monitor, review and comment on activities of neighboring cities, as they
relate to the City's General Plan.
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August 11, 1992
D. EARTH: Because the proposed General Plan could result in more people residing in
Downey, the exposure of more people to earthquake hazards is considered an impact
that is mitigated by policies in the Safety Chapter of the Plan.
Findings
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Support of Findinaa
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
The following policies from the proposed General Plan can reduce the impacts on soil,
erosion and the exposure of people to geologic hazards.
Safety Chapter: All policies
Safety Policies
The City shall:
5.1.1
5.2.1
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.3.1 Maintain the priority program established in the 1988 Montgomery Water
Study Update for upgrading the water system.
5.3.2 Develop programs to protect life and property from fire.
5.4.1 Reduce crime in Downey.
5.5.1 Monitor the existing landfill and implement appropriate safety measures.
Prepare for the catastrophe that will result from a major quake.
Participate in the FEMA program.
Support the Army Corps of Engineers' projects.
Evaluate and establish a program regarding drainage systems as they
pertain to future growth.
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August 11, 1992
5.6.1 Maintain the current multi- hazard function emergency preparedness plan
to include the following threats:
1) major earthquakes 2) hazardous materials incidents 3) eminent or
actual flooding 4) eminent or actual dam failure 5) aircraft accident and
6) war.
5.7.1 Adopt a Master Plan for installation of street lights and sidewalks
throughout the City.
5.8.1 Request Southern Pacific Railroad cooperation in facilitating access to
Downey Community Hospital.
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August 11, 1992
E. WATER: The proposed General Plan will result in people living and working within
a City's flood area. Flooding impacts will be mitigated when the FEMA National Flood
Insurance maps are adopted. Groundwater will be monitored and land use classes that
contribute to groundwater contamination will be discouraged. Policies of the Safety,
Hazardous Waste Management, Conservation and Open Space /Recreation Chapters
will mitigate water impacts.
Findings
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Su000rt of Findinas
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
The storm drain system will be upgraded as will the fire flow system. Downey will
conserve water by installing a reclaimed water system and by conserving water in
public buildings. The City will also adopt ordinances requiring water conserving
plumbing fixtures in new construction. Flood mitigation measures will be adopted
when FEMA maps are adopted. Relevant policies from the chapters include:
Safety Chapter: Policies 5.2.1, 5.2.2, 5.2.3, 5.3.1, 5.3.2
Hazardous Waste Management Chapter: Policy 10.5.1
-- Conservation Chapter: Policies 4.1.1, 4.1.2, 4.2.1, 4.2.2, 4.3.1, 4.3.2,
4.3.3, 4.3.4
Open Space Chapter: Policy 7.3.1
Safety Policies
The City shall:
5.2.1
5.2.2
5.2.3
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Participate in the FEMA program.
Support the Army Corps of Engineers' projects.
Evaluate and establish a program regarding drainage systems as they
pertain to future growth.
5.3.1 Maintain the priority program established in the 1988 Montgomery Water
Study Update for upgrading the water system.
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August 11, 1992
5.3.2 Develop programs to protect life and property from fire.
Hazardous Waste Management Policy
The City shall:
10.5.1 Adopt a code amendment for siting criteria for hazardous waste facilities
to include criteria for the following:
1) buffer zones and setbacks;
2) flood areas;
3) seismic activity;
4) soils;
5) performance standards;
6) restricted locations in areas of possible water contamination;
7) locate away from wells;
8) traffic impacts and transportation routes;
9) an Initial Environmental Study to determine adverse environmental
effects;
10) site operations;
11) visual, noise and olfactory impacts;
12) air quality;
13) endangered species;
14) risk assessment.
Conservation Policies
The City shall:
4.1.1 Continue to encourage the conservation of water through the water bill
process.
4.1.2 Information shall be made available to users regarding conservation
methods.
4.2.1 Examine the feasibility of a reclaimed water system to support fire
service; and shall evaluate and participate in the use of reclaimed water
for irrigation of public areas and industrial uses.
4.2.2 City facilities shall be designed to conserve water.
4.3.1 Develop standards for water conserving plumbing fixtures in all new
construction.
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August 11, 1992
4.3.2 Require water conserving appliances and fixtures in all commercial or
industrial developments.
4.3.3 Implement a public information program pertaining to water conservation
and recycling issues.
4.3.4 Consider incentive programs for commercial and industrial operations that
conserve water.
Open Space Policy
The City shall:
7.3.1 Upgrade existing recreation facilities and parks.
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August 11, 1992
F. NATURAL RESOURCES: Although natural resource consumption under the Plan is
considered less than significant from a regional perspective, any increased use of
nonrenewable resources is considered an impact on the environment. There are no
known endangered or rare species of animals or plants that will be impacted by the
Plan. There are no known habitats in Downey. Policies of the Conservation and Open
Space /Recreation Chapters mitigate impacts.
Findings
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Support of Findings
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
The Conservation and Open Space /Recreation Chapters contain policies that address
natural resources. Relevant policies include:
Conservation Chapter: All policies
Open Space /Recreation Chapter: Policies 7.1.1, 7.2.1, 7.2.2, 7.2.3, 7.2.6
Conservation Policies
The City shall:
4.1.1 Continue to encourage the conservation of water through the water bill
process.
4.1.2 Information shall be made available to users regarding conservation
methods.
4.2.1 Examine the feasibility of a reclaimed water system to support fire
service; and shall evaluate and participate in the use of reclaimed water
for irrigation of public areas and industrial uses.
4.2.2 City facilities shall be designed to conserve water.
4.3.1 Develop standards for water conserving plumbing fixtures in all new
construction.
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August 11, 1992
4.3.2 Require water conserving appliances and fixtures in all commercial or
industrial developments.
4.3.3 Implement a public information program pertaining to water conservation
and recycling issues.
4.3.4 Consider incentive programs for commercial and industrial operations that
conserve water.
4.4.1 Significant and mature public and private trees shall be inventoried.
4.4.2 Develop a policy for the protection, replacement and preservation of
public and private mature specimen trees.
4.5.1 Develop a policy for planting, removal, replacement and maintenance of
trees in street parkways and on public property under City control.
4.6.1 Require recycling in residential, commercial and industrial areas of the
City.
Open Space Policies
The City shall:
7.1.1
7.2.1
7.2.2
7.2.3
7.2.6
Adopt programs to preserve existing open space.
Develop new parks in the areas of greatest need.
Develop a connector bike trail.
Provide additional recreational facilities.
Require large commercial, industrial and residential developments to
establish usable open space in their projects.
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August 11, 1992
G. RISK OF UPSET: Future industrial and commercial growth under the proposed
General Plan might increase the amount of hazardous substances transported and
generated in the City. The increase in the amount of hazardous substances can
increase the risk of accidents resulting in significant environmental impacts. The
impacts are mitigated by the policies of the Hazardous Waste Management and Safety
Chapters.
Findinas
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Su000rt of Findinas
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
Mitigation Measures concerning risk of upset and the monitoring of toxic and
hazardous waste generators are in the Hazardous Waste Management and Safety
Chapters. Relevant policies include:
Hazardous Waste Management Chapter:
Safety Chapter:
Hazardous Waste Management Policies
The City shall:
All policies
Policy 5.6.1
10.1.1 Sponsor and assist in education and training efforts such as workshops
and private industry training in waste reduction disposal.
10.2.1 Establish a Residential Hazardous Waste Management Program by
identifying and developing techniques for the collection and disposal of
household hazardous wastes.
10.2.2 Promote public information on hazardous waste.
10.3.1 Require existing businesses that transport hazardous waste to develop
routing plans.
10.3.2 Limit hazardous waste transportation on City streets to major streets and
during non -peak hours.
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August 11, 1992
10.4.1 Inventory, control and clean -up all existing contaminated hazardous
waste sites.
10.4.2 The inventory should provide location, type of facility, type and amount
of hazardous waste danger to the public and danger to natural resources.
10.4.3 Adopt land use policies for the clean -up of contaminated sites prior to
development.
10.5.1 Implement Federal and State legislation regarding hazardous waste
treatment facilities.
10.5.2 Increase public education and involvement in the siting and permitting
process for on -site hazardous waste recycling and treatment facilities.
10.6.1 To the extent of its legal authority, Downey will require all Federal, State
and County facilities, within its jurisdictional boundaries, which generate
wastes, to comply with all applicable regulations.
10.6.2 Require all Federal, State and County facilities to disclose hazardous
materials storage and waste disposal quantities.
Safety Policy
The City shall:
5.6.1 Maintain the current multi- hazard function emergency preparedness plan
to include the following threats:
1) major earthquakes 2) hazardous materials incidents 3) eminent or
actual flooding 4) eminent or actual dam failure 5) aircraft accident and
6) war.
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August 11, 1992
H. POPULATION: The proposed General Plan, under full build -out, could result in an
approximate 13- percent increase in Downey's population. The anticipated increase is
considered significant because more people will create more congestion, traffic and
more air pollution. The increased population will occur as a result of larger family sizes
as senior citizens move out and younger families replace them. The increase is
approximately 600+ persons per year over the life of the plan. Land Use and Housing
Chapter policies will mitigate the impacts of the increased population.
Findinas
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Support of Findinos
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
Application of the City's development standards contained in the Land Use Chapter
will limit population growth. There are policies to retain large parcel sizes, to combine
parcels in the residential specific plan areas and to require apartment standards to
have the same open space requirements as Planned Unit Developments. The Housing
Chapter contains a policy retaining arbitrary setbacks in neighborhoods, which will
limit the size of homes. Continued pro- active code enforcement will reduce the
number of illegal units which contribute to large household size. Relevant policies
include:
Land Use Chapter: Policies 1.1.2, 1.1.3, 1.4.3
Housing Chapter: Policies 3.1.2, 3.2.3
Land Use Policies
The City shall:
1.1.2 Regulate residential density to reflect minimum lot sizes appropriate for
the respective neighborhoods.
1.1.3 Promote property maintenance.
1.4.3 Revise the zoning ordinance to include development and performance
standards.
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August 11, 1992
Housing Policies
The City shall:
3.1.2 Continue "proactive" code enforcement programs.
3.2.3 Preserve the arbitrary setbacks provision of the Code.
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I. PUBLIC SERVICES: Greater demands on public services (police, fire, schools and
public maintenance) can be expected at full build -out. This will happen gradually over
the next twenty years, since the Plan anticipates and additional 600+ persons per
year. Policies of the Safety, Open Space /Recreation and Circulation Chapters mitigate
the demand on public services.
Findinas
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Support of Findinas
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
Measures intended to reduce impacts on public services are discussed in the Safety
Chapter, the Open Space /Recreation Chapter, and the Circulation Chapter. Relevant
policies include:
Safety Chapter: Policy 5.4.1
Open Space /Recreation Chapter: Policies 7.1.1, 7.2.1, 7.4.3, 7.5.1
Circulation Chapter: Policies 2.1.1, 2.3.1, 2.4.1, 2.8.1
Safety Policy
The City shall:
5.4.1 Reduce crime in Downey.
Open Space /Recreation Policies
The City shall:
7.1.1 Adopt programs to preserve existing open space.
7.2.1 Develop new parks in the areas of greatest need.
7.4.3 Adopt ordinances preserving part of each public school property as open
space, should any existing schools be developed for another use.
7.5.1 Continue to support cultural events and facilities in Downey.
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August 11, 1992
Circulation Policies
The City shall:
2.1.1 Promote traffic safety by maintaining or improving the level of service on
major streets, where possible.
2.3.1 Comply with provisions of the Congestion Management Plan.
2.4.1 Consider the expansion of its existing intracommunity transit service to
better accommodate seniors, the handicapped, school children and the
general public.
2.8.1 The City's seven -year Capital Improvements Program should address the
following improvements, as necessary:
Street systems
Sewer facilities
Water supply
Drainage facilities
Other major capital investments necessary to sustain the City's
growth and operation.
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August 11, 1992
J. UTILITIES: Any increase in utility use is an environmental impact. However, on a
regional basis the impacts are not considered significant. Conservation, Land Use and
Circulation Chapter policies mitigate the environmental impacts of utility use.
Findings
Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR.
Facts in Su000rt of Findinas
The significant effect has been substantially lessened to the extent feasible by virtue
of the following mitigation measures identified in the Final EIR and incorporated into
the project.
Relevant policies from the Conservation, Land Use and Circulation Chapters are:
Conservation Chapter:
Land Use Chapter:
Circulation Chapter:
Conservation Policy
The City shall:
Policy 4.6.1
Policy 1.4.3
Policy 2.8.1
4.6.1 Provide information to citizens about recycling and the need to recycle
water.
Land Use Policy
The City shall:
1.4.3 Revise the zoning ordinance to include development and performance
standards.
Circulation Policy
The City shall:
2.8.1 The City's seven -year Capital Improvements Program should address the
following improvements, as necessary:
Street systems
Sewer facilities
Water supply
Drainage facilities
Other major capital investments necessary to sustain the City's
growth and operation.
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IV. SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS WHICH CANNOT BE AVOIDED IF
THE PROJECT IS IMPLEMENTED
There will be no significant environmental effects that cannot be avoided with the
implementation of the General Plan.
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BSOURCE DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT
Land Use
Circulation Increased traffic.
Earth
Water
Risk of
Upset
ATTACHMENT B
SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES
TABLE EIR -1
SUMMARY OF IMPACTS
1. SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS THAT CAN BE MITIGATED
Increased population;
related impacts on housing
and circulation.
Exposure of people &
buildings to earthquakes.
Exposure of people & buildings
to flood hazards; possible
groundwater contamination.
Natural Increased use of non -
Resources renewable natural resources.
Increased amount of hazardous
substances & greater potential
for accidents.
MITIGATION MEASURES
Redesignations of Land Use;
goals & policies to minimize land use
conflicts; establish a logical pattern of
development; upgrade the appearance of
the City; aid in the development of a strong
and diversified economic base.
Improved circulation plan; public transit;
pedestrian & non -motor vehicle paths.
Emergency preparedness plan;
maintenance of the Emergency Operations
Center (EOC).
Emergency Preparedness Plan; Capital
Improvement Storm drain 5 -10 year
program; compliance with FEMA regs.
Conservation of water and increased open
space; recycling of materials; Source
Reduction and Recycling Element.
Emergency preparedness plan; hazardous
waste management outlined in Hazardous
Waste Management Chapter.
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Population
Public Increased demand on police,
Services fire, schools & public
maintenance.
Utilities Supplies of utilities will be
adequate.
2. EFFECTS FOUND NOT TO BE SIGNIFICANT
The proposed 2010 General Plan, in conjunction with mitigation measures in this EIR,
will not adversely impact the following areas: Housing, Noise, Light & Glare, Cultural
Resources, Energy, Plant & Animal Life, Human Health, Aesthetics, and Recreation.
3. BENEFICIAL EFFECTS
Goals and policies in the Downey General Plan are designed to improve Downey's
living and working environment by reducing land use conflicts, encouraging and
monitoring appropriate developments, and protecting the health, safety and welfare of
the City's residents.
About a 13% increase over the
next 20 years.
Land Use & Housing goals; Land Use
redesignations; Noise, Safety &
Circulation policies.
Service and developer fees.
Capital Improvement Programs.
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4. MITIGATION MONITORING
ATTACHMENT C
MITIGATION MONITORING PLAN
Mitigation monitoring programs will be incorporated into the yearly "State of the Plan"
report prepared for the City Council; it is also a policy of the Plan to review it annually
and revise it as needed.
cn.disc4.eir.res