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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/16/2000, 7 - CITY BIOLOGIST POSITION counal °�°� j, ac En as nEpont 7 C I T Y OF SAN L U IS O B I S P O FROM: Ken Hampian, Assistant CAO46� Prepared By: Neil Havlik,Natural Resource Manager � - Ann Slate, Human Resources Director SUBJECT: CITY BIOLOGIST POSITION CAO RECOMMENDATION 1. Approve the establishment of the position of City Biologist, including its recommended organizational placement, overall scope of responsibilities, and initial priorities (including the approach to completing the Natural Resource Inventory). 2. Direct staff to include an appropriation of $68,800 in the 2000-01 budget to support salary and benefits ($48,800 prorated for nine months), general budget support ($11,500) and"one-time" setup costs ($8,500) necessary for the position. 3. Direct staff to return with a policy resolution that reinforces the stewardship responsibilities of all City employees relative to major areas of shared responsibility, and 4. Concur with the annual distribution of a"sustainable city progress report". REPORT-IN-BRIEF Pursuant to Council direction at the February 29, 2000, Council meeting, staff has met with affected departments and with interested members of the community and crafted a job description for the position of City Biologist (included as Attachment 1). The position will initially focus on two main programs: completion of the City's natural resources inventory; and development and oversight of an improved mitigation monitoring program for City projects. The position will also provide assistance to the Natural Resources Manager for a variety of activities involved with the City's Natural Resources Protection Program. With regard to remaining inventory work, development of an information base identifying "Species of Local Concern" is presently included in the contract with the consulting firm of Jones and - Stokes Associates for the update of the General Plan Conservation Element. Development of conservation strategies for these species, combined with the substantial information that already exists and is being used, will bring our overall inventory to a satisfactory level of completion. However, such an inventory is always a "work in progress", and will be added to as further information is developed through the specific planning efforts underway in the major expansion areas. The City Biologist will assist in these added efforts, including resolving land use and resource conflicts when they surface. The City Biologist will also assist in the ongoing maintenance of the inventory. 7-1 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 2 DISCUSSION Background In the adoption of the 1995-97 Financial Plan, the Council created a position of Natural Resources Manager (NRM). The position was created largely as the result of recommendations of the Environmental Quality Task Force (EQTF), which, in February 1995, recommended creating two positions: Open Space Manager and City Biologist. At that time, approval of two separate positions was not feasible. This was because the City was still overcoming the severe financial repercussions of the recession (other City positions were being eliminated) and because "only" one position (Economic Development Manager) was also being created for the Economic Development Program. These two factors—financial constraints and the perceived need to ensure "perfect equality" between our newly created "economic" and "environmental" programs—combined to limit the City to one position in the Natural Resource Protection Program. Since only one position could be created, staff worked to include a combination of the duties recommended by the EQTF for Open Space Manager and City Biologist into the job description for the Natural Resources Manager. As a result, the City's current Natural Resources Manager has worked not only on open space acquisition, but has also advanced several of the goals that would have been met through the City Biologist position. These are described in the Natural Resources Protection Program section of the Financial Plan (D-112) and in a recently completed program brochure (previously distributed; a copy may be found in the Council Reading File). Several factors have combined to make the creation of a specialized City Biologist position appropriate at this time. • Open space acquisition remains a high priority of the City, and places a great demand on the City's Natural Resource Manager. This leaves less time for some of the duties originally intended to be carried out by a City Biologist (e.g. assistance with natural resources inventory work, land management plans, etc.). ■ The increasing complexity of project mitigation development, completion and monitoring has simply outgrown the Public Works Department staff's ability to adequately oversee mitigation contracts and ongoing mitigation work without added resources. ■ Consultant contracts for project mitigation have grown more expensive. ■ The need to maintain a perceived "perfect equality" between the Economic Development and the Natural Resource Protection Programs has, hopefully, subsided. As a result of these changes, early this year the Council asked staff to reconsider the need for the City Biologist position. Then, on February 29, 2000 during Mid-Year Budget Review, the Council concluded that such a position was definitely needed and conceptually approved its creation. Staff was directed to return to Council after defining more thoroughly the proposed 7-2 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 3 duties, placement and priorities for the position. Staff was also asked to give "heavy weight" to the suggestions set forth in a February 29, 2000 letter from Dr. Richard Krejsa recommending the new position (Attachment 1). Evaluation of Position Duties Over the last several weeks, staff has worked to establish the scope of duties for the position. Consistent with Council direction, staff organized its analysis around the suggestions provided by Dr. Krejsa, who had essentially summarized the former EQFT's recommendations. The departments involved in this internal analysis included all those likely to have some interaction with the City Biologist position, including Community Development, Public Works, Utilities, Fire, Parks and Recreation, Human Resources and Administration. The work of this group resulted in a proposed matrix of duties, organized under major EQTF goals (Attachment 2). This matrix, along with biologist job descriptions from other agencies, was then used to help prepare a draft job description. Job Description and Position Qualifications The next step in the process was to review this internal work with interested community members. Therefore, on April 7, 2000, a meeting was held to review the matrix, draft job description, and status of our existing and future natural resource inventorywork with members of the Natural Resource Inventory Group (NRIG), former EQFT members, and other interested individuals (Attachment 3). Since a draft job description had been distributed in advance to those invited to the April 7 meeting, Dr. Kresja presented to the group a number of suggested revisions and comments. Many, though not all, of the suggested revisions were incorporated into the recommended job description(Attachment 4). This is described more fully below. Concern was expressed by some attending the meeting over the number and scope of duties in the description, as these might relate to workload. Staff and others in attendance agreed that the description represented more than could be accomplished by one individual. Staff explained, however, that job descriptions typically list the broadest scope of responsibilities possible in a position with the understanding that priorities and tasks will vary dependent upon workload demand. The initial suggested priorities for the position are outlined later in this report. Although Dr. Krejsa indicated a preference for requiring higher levels of experience and education than found in the draft description, consensus seemed to be reached that requiring a minimum of three years work experience and a related bachelor's degree would yield a strong applicant pool (noting that an advanced degree and certification as a fisheries and/or wildlife biologist were highly desired). It was generally recognized that minimum qualifications are just that, i.e. minimums, and experience has shown that applicants and final candidates usually exceed those minimums. For example, the qualifications for the Natural Resources Manager position requires a bachelor's degree (with Master's degree or higher preferred) plus five years of related experience. The City's Natural Resource Manager has a Doctorate degree and twenty years related experience. 7-3 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 4 In summary, staff strongly recommends that, consistent with our general practice, the position qualifications remain open to various combinations of experience and education. We are confident that this will yield an applicant pool from which to select a highly qualified individual. Reporting and Team Relationships As currently proposed, the City Biologist will be under the supervision of the Natural Resources Manager. In addition to the formal organizational structure, it is essential that the position be integrated into the organization in such a manner that it is perceived by other staff as being fully a part of the City team. Only in this way can the goal of further instilling environmental sensitivity and protection into the mainstream ethic of City staff be accomplished. Education and change, whether environmental or otherwise, cannot be effectively accomplished through "command and control"; instead, it should occur through positive experience, and through new information and practices shared in ways that can be understood and accepted. In this way, lasting improvements can be made. Relationship of the Natural Resource Inventory to the Duties of a City Biologist Prior to determining the priorities for this new position, staff feels it is essential to bring greater clarity to the goal of creating a natural resource inventory. The reason for doing so is that, to a large extent, the amount of time available to a City Biologist for "non-inventory related work" hinges heavily on the goals, expectation and needs relative to completing the inventory. Up to this point, while there has been much interest expressed in completing an inventory and related overlay maps, there has been little consensus relative to: (1) What resources are to be inventoried? (2) What data and maps already exist and are being used by staff, relative to these resources? (3) What added data and work are needed? (4) When "completed," how are we to use the information(recognizing that such work will require regular updating)? In order to shed more light on these questions, a "white paper" was prepared by the Natural Resources Manager with the assistance of Community Development Department staff (Attachment 5). The white paper indicates that a significant effort to complete our inventory is already underway by consultants Jones and Stokes through the update of the Conservation Element. If Council concurs, this effort will be expanded to permit development of a database of "Species of Local Concern". The database will focus on plant and animal species that are uncommon or rare in our area, although not so overall. In other words, this listing will cover a number of species that are not given any protective status by the State or Federal government but are of interest or concern in the local area. In addition to simply listing these species, however, the effort will provide guidelines for their conservation during development projects. This approach to adding to our inventory was presented to and affirmed by the Natural Resource Inventory Group prior to undertaking the update of the Conservation Element. The overall approach was also presented to those attending the April 7 meeting. Some of those at the meeting may not feel that this effort will go far enough. However, it is staff's opinion that, combined with the substantial amount of data that already exists and is being used, the work- 7-4 ork7-4 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 5 underway with the Conservation Element should bring our inventory to a reasonable level of completion. We recognize that such an inventory is always a "work in progress". It will be added to as further information is gathered through the specific planning efforts underway in our major expansion areas (Airport Area, Margarita Area, and Orcutt Area) and as other properties develop or are incorporated into open space protection programs. This leads to an important point, to wit: Without the consent of property owners, we cannot expect that City staff will be granted access to conduct inventory work on private property. Such consent typically comes when property is proposed for development, or in the case of open space, when the owner is contemplating a transaction with the City. The City Biologist will assist in gathering data through all of these added efforts — expansion area specific plans, developing property inventories, and open space investigations — and in resolving conflicts in land use, should they emerge. The City Biologist will also oversee the ongoing maintenance of much of our inventory database. Initial Priorities for the City Biologist As mentioned earlier,job descriptions are typically crafted to cover the full range of possibilities for given City positions. They do not, however, set forth priorities. Priorities are determined based on Council goals and the staff activities necessary to complete those goals. Goals, of course, can change over time, depending upon current needs and interests. Given the concerns that initially reactivated the request for a City Biologist position, and the interest in furthering our natural resources inventory work, staff believes that the initial position focus should be: Highest Emphasis • Developing an improved project mitigation program—mitigation development,project oversight, and ongoing mitigation monitoring and reporting; and • Finalization of natural resource inventory work through some combination of consultant assistance and direct involvement, and participation in reconciling identified land use- sensitive resource conflicts through the specific planning process. Other Important Areas of Participation : • Development of formal policies for open space land management, including a"Best Practices"policy, and follow-up management plans for major properties; • Development and implementation of restoration plans; • Environmental review of various projects; • Open space acquisitions; • Natural resource and environmental education and stewardship efforts. 7-5 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 6 Recruitment Process and Timeframe With Council approval of the City Biologist position, the Natural Resources Manager will work with Human Resources Department (HR) staff to develop a job announcement that will focus on the most immediate priorities of the new position. By early June, the announcement will be published and circulated with a closing date of approximately 45 days from the date of announcement. The Natural Resources Manager will assist HR in determining which professional publications and organizations might be good sources of applicants. Staff has also invited members of the NRIG and EQTF to offer suggestions in this regard. Once the application-filing period is ended, the applications will be screened and only those most highly qualified will be invited to interview. Typically for positions such as this that have considerable public contact as well as interdepartmental relationships, two interview panels are convened—one focusing on technological expertise and external interaction, the other focusing on internal dynamics and organizational fit. "Subject matter experts", including some members of the community, will be invited to participate on the external panel. It is anticipated that interviews would be scheduled by mid-to-late August, and, barring unforeseen delays, the City Biologist should be on board by late September or early October. It should be pointed out that the Public Works Department anticipates requesting a new position of Environmental Engineer in the upcoming budget; this position is intended to handle much of the permitting involved with City projects and would work closely with the Biologist. "Environmental Protection is Everyone's Job" Members of the former EQTF also recommended that the Council adopt a policy stating relative to City staff, that "Environmental.Protection is Everyone's Job." This had been an earlier suggestion of the EQTF. There are a number of staff positions which invest a considerable amount of their time in work related to environmental protection. These staff members, and hopefully many others, perceive environmental protection to be at least a part of their job. We also believe that other staff members embrace environmental stewardship as a responsibility of all of us, not only as employees, but as citizens. However, continuous improvement in our environmental protection and understanding is important and necessary, and staff believes that a Council resolution reinforcing this goal would provide greater momentum behind such efforts. However, staff also feels that such a resolution should be larger in context, encompassing other major areas of stewardship responsibility, such as neighborhood protection. With Council concurrence, staff will work with Department Heads to further define these areas and return with a recommended resolution. 7-6 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 7 Measurable Performance Objectives In his February 29, 2000 letter, Dr. Krejsa reminded the Council of the EQTF suggestion that the addition of "the measurable performance standards" would help our citizens better determine how the City is meeting its environmental goals. At the present time, the City has an elaborate process of goal setting and goal status tracking. For example, Council goals are tracked and reported on, in writing, six times during any two- year budget cycle. In addition, further goals, objectives, and workload and performance indicators are set forth and tracked in the budget document. The City's performance appraisal system also assures integration of Council priorities into the work programs of City employees. As cities go, we are clearly among the leaders in sustainable policies, programs, and activities, and in recent years, staff has worked to better communicate the City's efforts. One example is the "SLO Stewards" newsletter jointly prepared with the Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo. In addition, the City's Conservation Office has a substantial public information program and the Community Development Department distributes an annual report. There are other examples as well. Staff agrees, however, that we have not sufficiently promoted the progress we are making across the full range of environmental protection, conservation and sustainable community initiatives that are being carried out by the City. Therefore, in addition to existing reporting systems, staff anticipates preparation of an "Annual Sustainable City Progress Report," similar to such a report prepared by the City of Santa Monica (Attachment 6). The idea would be to detail our efforts, not only for purposes of measurement, but also to more effectively communicate the many progressive efforts being made by the City. CONCURRENCES Following the direction by the City Council to formulate the City Biologist position, City staff worked to develop a preliminary set of duties based on the needs of several affected City departments. Staff then prepared a detailed matrix of duties, comparing our perceived needs with those goals recommended by the EQTF. Based on this work, and on biologist job descriptions from other agencies, a draft job description was prepared. Other suggestions outlined in the February 29, 2000 letter from Dr. Kresja were also considered (e.g. employee training, performance measurement). Staff reviewed all of this work with the Natural Resource Inventory Group and former EQTF members in a meeting held on April 7, 2000. During this meeting, staff also reviewed current information available relative to our natural resource inventory goals, and discussed alternatives for completing our remaining needs. There was lengthy discussion regarding job duties and qualifications, and some disagreement. However, it is staff's feeling that, while not unanimous on every issue, agreement, was reached at a high level and the CAO Recommendations are, overall, very responsive to the suggestions that have been made. 7-7 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 8 FISCAL IMPACT The fiscal impact of this position will revolve primarily around the added salary and benefit expense. This is estimated at $48,800 for nine months of 2000-2001 (rising to $61,240 the next year), plus certain one-time position set-up expenses estimated at approximately $8,500 ($2,500 for a computer, $1,000 for supplies, including a telephone, and $5,000 for office furnishings) and general support costs estimated at$11,500 per year(an increase in contract services of$5,000, an increase in printing and reproduction of$1,000, an increase in education and training of$2,000, an increase in operating materials and supplies of$3,000 and miscellaneous increases of$500). These will be reflected in the Natural Resources Protection Program budget for 2000-2001 and subsequent years. The position will not fully replace the use of monitoring consultants, but is expected to partially do so. It is estimated that perhaps one-third of the on-going salary and benefit costs of the position will be in the form of redirected consultant costs (about $20,400). One area to `watch" is the impact of the position on Administration secretarial support. Added workload is anticipated, especially as it relates to mitigation monitoring and reporting. Finally, if Council concurs with the "species of local concern" approach to completion of the Natural Resources Inventory, this will be addressed in the Conservation Element Update through additional staff and consultant effort. Staff will return to Council for additional funding if it is necessary to do so. ALTERNATIVES 1. The Council may choose to not approve the City Biologist position and continue to use biological consultants on an as-needed basis. Given the increasing complexity of project mitigation development, implementation and monitoring, staff believes that City control and oversight can be enhanced though the use of our own staff biologist. In addition, because of the increasing amount of environmental consulting that the City utilizes, there are economies associatedmith creating an in-house biologist position. 2. The Council could approve alternative position qualifications or placement elsewhere within the City hierarchy. Staff believes that the proposed qualifications are commensurate with requirements that other agencies place on a biologist position. They are also compatible with the requirements of the Natural Resource Manager position, which would be supervisory to the City Biologist. It is clearly stated in the proposed job description that an advanced degree and certification as either a fisheries biologist or wildlife biologist is preferred. This will also be made clear in the job announcement. Locating the Natural Resources Protection Program in Administration has been successful in influencing City matters with regard to natural resource issues, and placing the City Biologist in the same location would strengthen that effect. 3. The Council may decide to use another approach to completing and using our Natural Resource Inventory. The Council may decide to seek some other approach to the Natural Resource Inventory, such as separate surveys undertaken under the direct supervision of the City Biologist. Staff believes that the remaining inventory, focusing 7-8 Council Agenda Report—City Biologist Position Page 9 on about 30 - 40 plant and animal "Species of Local Concern", is straightforward enough to permit an immediate effort in that.direction by staff and the consultant preparing the Conservation Element Update. The City Biologist will, of course, add to the inventory over time, though various planning and maintenance efforts. ATTACHMENTS 1_. February 29, 2000 Letter from Dr. I{rej'sa 2. Duties Matrix 3. April 7, 2000 Meeting Attendees 4. Recommended job description 5: Natural Resource Inventory"White Paper" 6. Santa Monica Sustainable City Progress Report. 7-9 F 2 9 2000 wILtTING AGENDA LO CITY CLERK ATTACHMENT 'I DATE 0"-I`E`VJ 1_ OM: Dr. Richard J. Krejsa DATE: 29 February 2000 189 San Jose Court, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Tb:' Mayor Allen K. Settle and Council Members City of San Luis Obispo �C�`C�V 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403 r ED FZ d z � z000 SUBJECT: City Biologist Qualifications Previously Submitted by EQTF SAO CIT y CO tclt Hon. Mayor and Members of the Council: In previous hearings for the 1995-96 and 1997-98 Budget Cycles,in behalf of the E.QTF, I presented the Council with a list of qualifications which the EQTF had determined must apply to the candidate selected for the recommended position of City Biologist. Once again,as former EQTF spokesperson and as current representative of the remaining EQTF members still living locally,I present you with a list of qualifications for this recommended position. The ideal candidate for the position of City Biologist) would- a) oulda) have a PhD* in primarily in Wildlife Biology or Fisheries Biology,Zoology,or Ecology and be recognized for his/her advocacy of bio-resource programs; b) be certified as either a terrestial wildlife ecologist with an extensive training and appreciation of riparian and aquatic habitats and cross-training in botany, or, a freshwater fisheries biologist with extensivetraining and appreciation of terrestial wildlife ecology and cross-training in botany; c) have had some experience in being directly responsible for the inventory, protection and/or enhancement of the natural bio-resources of an area,region,or state, preferably in the western states; d)spend much of his/her time in the field being anadvocate for the environment and Wl organisms within the San Luis Obispo Watershed.The most immedi @5t or s D DIR position should be the implementing the inventory; ErCAO My DIR Ideally, s/he world not [HCAO GIME CHIEF BnTTORNEY Oft DIR �CLERKIORIG (3 POLICE CHF d) have served primarily as a resourcemanager, ❑AIGMTTEAM FERS DIRrce'M DIR e) have served primarily as an environmental consultant; GY DIR i f) be newly-graduated but have had at least 4-6 years in the field; g) be expectedto become all things(environmentally speaking) to all people or departments within City government,i.e.,there are more jobs than one person can do! * Alternately,a candidate with a Bachelor's degree in Biology/Zoology and a Master's degree in Ecology,Wildlife Biology,or Fisheries Biology would be acceptable providing s/he had: h) at least 5 years of experience as an active field biologist. The salary for a qualified full-time biologist would be equal to the rank of beginning step Associate Professor at a California State University campus. It would be a full-time, civil service, career opportunity for the qualified, chosen candidate. Five years after the original EQTF proposal, the need is even greater. I suggest you give this action your very highest priority and consideration.Thank you for hearing this recommendation from the former EQTF members. richard T1s 10 [STATEMENT of DR.RICHARD J. KREJSA(re: Mid-Year Budget Review,29 Feb 2000)] In February, 1995, much of the environmental philosophy I share was incorporated into a city document prepared by the Environmental Quality Task Force(EQTF)and presented to the City Council after 15 months of deliberation by 14 of the top environmental specialists in the County. The estimated professional street value of the EQTF report was greater than $200,000, but these volunteers gave it to the City as a gift Their report had four parts including 1.& 2.below: 1.A Commitment to Goals.The EQTF highlighted several environmental goals which the City had already adopted as part of its Land Use Element(1994 revision),Water and Wastewater Management Element, Energy Element, and Open Space Element. We urged that they be translated into measurable objectives and implemented.Among Major City Goals adopted by City Council for the 1995-97 budget cycle, two had been recommended in the EQTF report: "Inventory,prioritize,and fund acqusition of open space,while continuing Inventories of natural resources within the City,the urban reserve line and¢reenbelt areas" "Prepare and bWn implementation of natural resource protection plans Including adoption of a creek setback ordinance which incorporates adequate capability for flood and habitat protection:' Comment: Midway thru the 1999-2000 cycle,portions of these Major City Goals (underlined) adopted in the 1995-97 budget cycle have not yet been implemented or,perhaps,even initiated! 2. City Organization.The EQTF discussed how City Government could be structured for more consistent attention to environmental quality. It recommended four priority measures including the three(a., b.,c.) listed below: a.Establish and fill a.position of"Open Space Manager." Within the Job Announcement for the renamed"Natural Resources Manager" position [Announcement Circular,August 19951, one of two adopted Major City Goals to be accomplished by this manager was: "identifying and maintaining an Inventory of natural resources within the City's urban reserve line and greenbelt area". Comment: This part of the NRM position has yet to be implemented even though it also was adopted as a priority goal in the 1994 Land Use Element(#8,p. 6; LUE program 6.0.2-3, p.57)! b. Establish and fill a position of"Biologist"which,according to the EQTF report,"would be a resource for all City departments,and would'perform the following tasks: "A.Review project proposals of both private applicants and the City,and help with environmental review." `B.Advise on management of City-owned open space land and easements" "C.Monitor construction of City and private projects,to assure that required mitigation measures are carried out and biologically responsible practices are followed." "D.Work with other City staff',other agencies,and community groups to protect and restore wildlife habitat,including environmental cleanup." "E.Advise the City on its role in regional state,and federal biological issues,and represent the City's interests before other agencies involved in biological issues:' To this list of duties,we would add other duties implied in the EQTF report(especially pp.13-22) including that portion of the NRM position not yet being implemented,i.e., F.Help identify,facilitate the production of,and maintain a detailed inventory of the natural resources within the City's urban reserve line and greenbelt area Comment: It is not necessary for staff to re-invent the wheel: qualifications for this position already have been spelled out by the EQTF(see letters attached). A certified frsheries/wildlife field biologist on staff would significantly complement the duties of the existing NRM position. c.Adopt a Policy which states that Environmental Protection is Everyone's Job and conduct citywide training to remind staff of daily actions that help protect the environment. 7-11 Comment It is now five years later and only one of these EQTF recommendations(a) has been adopted (and that only in part) by the City Council. In its document on the city's"Commitment to Goals," the EQTF also recommended that: 1tvaluation of progress in meeting the goals would be greatly Improved by adding measurable performance standards(so that)citizens should be able to tell how well the City is meeting its goals." Comment The city has yet to adopt measurable performance standards.Without such standards, it is difficult for any citizen to measure your performance relative to adopted city goals. RECOMMENDATIONS PROPOSED(for City Council's action,29 February 2000) These recommendations now have been re-endorsed by 11 former EQTF members.As their representative,I urge you to take action tonight to adopt these recommendations as proposed: Recommendation 1. Establish and fin a position of Biologist(with EQTF qualifications). Decide which division within City hierarchy the Biologist will be administratively anchored; prepare documentationl; and direct City Personnel Department,to advertise the position.1 Recommendation 2. Identify,maintain,and monitor an inventory of natural resources within the City's urban reserve line and greenbelt area. The EQTF report favored"Achieving Balance." In the interest of proper land use planning, e.g., the necessity of having appropriate resource over lay maps available on all city.lands and greebelt areas,and to fulfill the environmental parity and balance called for in previous City Council and EQTF documents,-it is essential that the natural resource inventories and overlay maps already called for in the 1994 LUE within the city's urban reserve line and its greenbelt areas be implemented as soon as.possible after the City Biologist position is hired. Recommendation 3: Implement Measureable Performance Standards We recommend that you complete the major goals adopted in the 1995-97 and subsequent budget cycles by implementing measurable performance standards that will enable citizens to determine how well the City is meeting its adopted goals in any given budget cycle. Recommendation 4.Adopt a Policy that Environmental Protection is Everyone's Job. Just as every employee is expected to honor City economic,safety,disability awareness,and equal opportunity goals, so too they should be expected to honor the City's environmental and sustainability goals. We recommend citywide staff training be conducted to reinforce those goals and to remind staff of daily actions that help protect and sustain the environment. Recommendation 5:As part of lit training,every Council member and CAO staff members ought to read the EQTF Report[Feb.'95]. It's contents are current and more urgent now than 5 years ago.Accountability and"Achieving Balance"[EQTF Report,p.9-101 demands that it is time to centralize environmental functions in one place rather than keep them dispersed and weakened among 8 city departments! If EQTF priorities had been taken seriously, we.'d already have staff doing these tasks in a cost-efficient way and(among many others) not have had : -to pay $40,000 for poorly manged.environmental monitoring at the Santa Rosa Street Bridge project which resulted in repeated siltation events in SLO Creek downtown last autumn; -to hire yet another consulting firm to act as environmental monitor for an even more difficult Higuera Street bridge project next summer. [How many consultant monitor;can we afford?]; -to have a disputed environmental result on the construction of the SLO Creek Walk; -to be involved in a squabble between Murray Street residents and the city arborist over the ill-advised trimming street median palm trees which bore nesting owls; . -to be involved in a contest with local citizens over the [lack of] protectio olden eagles in Perfumo Creek area of the city. Thank you for your serious consideration of our recommendations. , hard *sa l I would be happy to serve on the Biologist selection committee;we also wish to review fi announcement draft. 7-12 HMENT 2 ;� W ° o .. Q b 3 a ami E ° a m•= w^ H ° o m ° •� w ° d A CO m .o < 'cu, v y Z > C 00g � 3 ; 0. 90 0 � o� a uaya0 V3 .. a, '00 'ig : a Cl ono oo a ° w ° c to m :. o a a p °' H ° as q a := o p a s ti h o o d U a C1 ° ° 94 o a a Q + t o ° a b " gg o > L eC Uw W a o 3F F Oq v 4 cq 4. ° ° d O C� chi a A c° b u ° m DOD OD0 a LL O cc it Cd U_ �°, 3 O ca R � y q O a > � .` ° 3 ;O. a qac ca a �+d Ujo C'd '++ . 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Holland ✓ Tom Edell ✓ Christine Mulholland ✓ Phil Ashley ✓ Amy Shore ✓ Don Dollar Staff ✓ Ann Slate ✓ Ken Hampian ✓ Paul LeSage ✓ Neil Havlik ✓ Wayne Peterson ✓ Glen Matteson ✓ John Mandeville ✓ Mike McCluskey G:WAVUAIBIologbA4f1endniist for Ap it 7.d" ATTACHMENT 4 city of san lulls ol3ispo Code May, 2000 JOB TITLE: City Biologist GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: This position will provide professional biological assistance in the identification and protection of natural and biological resources in and around the City of San Luis Obispo and perform various activities in support of the Natural Resources Protection Program which encourages natural resource and biological protection, mitigation and restoration consistent with City policy. In the accomplishment of these objectives, the position will be required to: identify and maintain a detailed inventory of biological and other natural resources, review and monitor both private and City projects to ensure that appropriate biological practices are followed and mitigation activities are successful, participate in establishment of natural resource/habitat protection and management plans, and help facilitate the environmental review of private and City projects. This position will assist the Natural Resources Manager by providing specialized biological expertise in the development, implementation and evaluation of the City's Natural Resources Protection Program. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: This position will receive supervision from the Natural Resources Manager within a framework of standard policies and procedures and established organization values and processes. SUPERVISION EXERCISED: This position will supervise consultants and part-time/temporary employees on an as needed basis in the preparation of environmental and biological studies and the implementation of mitigation measures. This position will work closely and coordinate individually and jointly with personnel in other departments, particularly Community Development, Parks and Recreation, Fire, Public Works, and Utilities. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • This position will involve considerable interagency communication, public interaction and representation and regular field duties in difficult terrain, sometimes under special or unusual conditions, such as during storms, or late at night. • This position will help identity, facilitate the production of, and maintain a detailed inventory of the natural resources within the City's urban reserve line and greenbelt area. • This position will help establish natural resource/habitat protection and management plans. Perform some, and oversee other, pre-activity and monitoring surveys associated with City projects (e.g. red legged frog surveys). 7-19 City Of SIO: City Biologist 2 • Assist in the selection, and oversee the work of, specialized biological consultants associated with City projects; review reports and assist other City staff in the review of the work performed by biological consultants. • Monitor construction of City and oversee some private projects to assure that required mitigation measures are carried out and appropriate biologically responsible practices are followed. • Upon completion of City projects, periodically survey, monitor and evaluate developed mitigation areas for success of the mitigation efforts and compliance. Assist in the development and implementation of remedial actions necessary to ensure separate successful mitigation effort implementation as appropriate. • Undertake specific site surveys to assist City or private parties, e.g. determining wetland and grassland buffer areas, or creek setbacks. • Working with appropriate City staff and other agencies, develop restoration plans and lead restoration efforts for open space properties protected by the City through acquisition or easement. Oversee City-required restoration at private development sites. • Advise the City on its role in regional, state, and federal biological issues, and represent the City's interests before other agencies involved in biological issues. • Act as a liaison between the City and various state and federal permitting agencies for habitat issues. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES: (Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do all the listed examples include all tasks,which may be found in positions of the class.) • Complete the City's natural overlay maps of the City, the. urban reserve, and the planning area guide in land use designations and decision-making and assist in reconciling land or sensitive resource conflicts when identified. Assist in identifying resources in greater detail through preparation of expansion area specific plans. • Determine nature of specialized biological studies needed for City and some private projects. • For major, complex City-sponsored projects, coordinate the efforts of multiple consultants/disciplines on a variety of environmental mitigations. • For major; complex City-sponsored projects, design or include sufficient habitat mitigation to assure permitting from regulatory agencies. • Assist City inspection staff in the review and inspection of construction or installation of mitigation measures associated with City projects. 7-20 City Of SIO: City Biologist 3 • Help with environmental review for project proposals of the City and private applicants. • Assume responsibility for reporting on City mitigation projects to appropriate agencies. • Participate in preparation and implementation of habitat management and protection plans on City-owned open space lands, including fire/fuel management (e.g. mowing/grazing), leases, sensitive resource inventories, and creek and watershed protection. • Oversee or, in areas of his/her specialty, undertake specific site surveys to assist City or private parties, including assessments of lands being considered for acquisition. • Advise on management of City-owned open space lands and easements. • Assist in developing and implementing a variety of public information and education programs aimed at protecting and enhancing the community's environmental resources, such as staff training, brochures and posters, partnerships with others, events and tours (SLO Stewards, docent program, SLOPOST, etc). • Work with.other City staff, other agencies, and community groups.to protect and restore wildlife habitat, including environmental cleanup. • Provide recommendations for City legislative program, participate in briefings with area legislators, work through professional associations, and testify as needed. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS: Possession of: • a valid California class "C"driver's license Knowledge of: • biological and ecological processes; Central Coast endemic plant and animal species. • biological inventory and survey protocols and techniques (e.g. endangered species). • biological issues, such as wildlife corridors, wildlife habitats, creek biology, etc. • planning issues related to environmental and open space preservation. • Federal and State natural resource protection and restoration programs and applicable sections of Federal, State, and local laws and codes pertaining to environmental issues. • principles and practices of natural resource protection, mitigation and restoration. • land, natural area and open space preservation techniques and strategies. • mapping techniques such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS). 7_21 C11t/ Of SIO: City Biologist 4 • sustainability concepts and practices. • City organization, operation, General Plan, Open Space Element, EQTF "Vision for Sustainability in San Luis Obispo," and other City policies and objectives. Abil' to: • monitor implementation of policies related to environmental, natural resource protection, mitigation and restoration. • apply and educate others on sound natural resource and biological protection, mitigation and restoration and environmental assessments and protections. • utilize or assist others in utilizing a GIS mapping program. • cultivate and maintain positive working relationships with members of the public and community organizations, business and environmental leaders, City staff, and representatives of other government agencies. • foster a spirit of team work and advocacy effort in meeting the City's natural resource and biological protection and restoration activities. • communicate effectively both orally and in writing with City staff, and members of the public, community organizations, and elected officials. • work effectively with others, including those of diverse perspectives and/or limited background in natural resource concerns and possess strong interpersonal skills such as listening, speaking, advisory, mediation, reconciliation and related skills. • lead others to an enthusiastic appreciation of natural and biological processes, and, a desire to protect, preserve and restore the natural environment. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 1. Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biological science(s), natural resource management, or a related field is required. An advanced degree is preferred. 2. A minimum of three years of progressively responsible employment experience dealing with environmental, biological, and open space preservation issues. 3. A Master's degree may substitute for one year and a PhD for two years of required experience. 4. Certification as a Fisheries Professional (CFP) or Wildlife Biologist (CWB) is highly desired. 7-22 Current Status of the City of San Luis Obispo's Natural Resource Inventory Program May, 2000 I. What is the City's Overall Resource Inventory Goal, as Stated in the Land Use Element of the General Plan? The General Plan says that overlay maps should be used in designating appropriate uses for land in the City, as well as for making land use related decisions such as approving development plans. With regard to designating land uses, the General Plan says the overlay maps shall provide the basis for determining where urban development is most appropriate, and where other needs of the community(such as resource protection) outweigh the desire or need for urban development. Furthermore, the overlay mapping information is to be used to re-evaluate previous land use designations and future plans for undeveloped areas, and revise the LUE land use map accordingly. The key policies that determine this land use decision making framework are: Land Use Policy 6.0.1 in the City of San Luis Obispo's General Plan Land Use Element states that 7t is a policy of the City to protect its unique natural resources and systems by including their considerations and needs within its planning program and giving those considerations and needs a planning priority co-equal with that accorded other community needs. Under this policy, the City will make provisions for the continued existence of its natural resources within the community. The term "community"thus includes not only the urbanized human community dominated by urban land development and technological systems, but also a natural community rich in biological and geological diversity, as well as a pre urban human community with a strong agricultural base." Land Use Policy 6.0.2 which states that "the City shall develop overlay maps of the City, the urban reserve, and the planning area to guide in land use designations and decision making. Maps of these areas shall be in sufficient detail to highlight all significant natural resources and systems. The overlay maps will show at least native plant communities, wildlife habitats and corridors, aquatic ecosystems, productive or potentially productive soils, viewsheds, hillsides, and greenbelt areas. The overlay maps shall also show development constraints such as flood hazard areas, geologic hazard areas, soil hazard areas (subsidence, liquefaction), noise impact areas, airport hazard and noise areas, radiation hazard areas." Land Use Policy 6.0.3 then states that "the overlay maps shall provide the basis for determining where urban development is appropriate and where other needs of the community outweigh the desire or need for urban development. As a result of the findings embodied in these overlay maps, the City shall re-evaluate its land use designations and future plans for undeveloped areas, and revise the LUE land use map accordingly." Land Use Policy 6.a4 then states that "once resource areas worthy of protection are identified, the City shall seek to protect them by easement or other permanent means." Other General Plan elements contain policies that further refine this land use decision making framework. Policies in the Open Space, Conservation, and Safety elements also provide specific guidance on land use according the to presence of natural resources or natural hazards. A general inventory of the City's natural resources was used to adopt the City's current land use map. An environmental impact report(EIR)was prepared on this map as a part of the Land Use Element. Mitigation measures from that EIR are embodied in the resource protection policies. "- 7-23 Attachment 5 H. Current Status of City Efforts in Natural Resource Inventory Efforts in overlay mapping are considerably advanced. Most, if not all, of the overlay mapping described in land use policy 6.0.2 has been undertaken in one form or another and that information is available either in descriptive form or in computer-generated map form. Additional detailed data is currently being compiled by Jones & Stokes, the consultants working on an update of the City's General Plan Conservation Element. Some information is adapted from other government agency work such as the Soil Survey, California Natural Diversity Database, or Federal Emergency Management Agency flood information. In addition to this, however,the City is undertaking its own mapping of vegetation communities and of the corridors of San Luis Obispo Creek and its tributaries both within the City and in other selected areas of the watershed. Other activities in this regard are described below. A. Work of the Natural Resource Inventory Group (NRIG) The Natural Resource Inventory Committee (NRIG) is an ad hoc group established to assist City staff(particularly the Natural Resources Manager) in the development and refinement of this overlay information and other information on the City's natural resources. Members include: Phil Ashley; Ray Belknap; David Chipping; Gary Felsman; V. L. Holland; Brad Schram; and Pat Veesart. The Group first met over three years ago. Initially, it was the Group's idea to develop its own effort in the task of assembling (primarily biological) inventory data. However, after several attempts to do so, it became clear that this was a huge and daunting task for volunteers, with questionable benefits in terms of enhancing community awareness of our natural resources. Therefore, after considerable discussion, it was the Group's decision that inventory information be developed in an educational format for publication and general distribution to interested citizens in the community and that that information be held for later application to mapping. Natural vegetation mapping was considered the highest priority for immediate application to planning uses. Consequently, considerable work has been done in educating or providing opportunities for educating the public about natural resources of the community. These have focused primarily on biological resources but have by no means been restricted to those resources. Major publications include the Creek Care Guide, Reptile and Amphibian Guide, and Bird Guide to the San Luis Obispo area and the publication of the Natural San Luis Poster which contains a significant amount of information on biology, geology, meteorology, and hydrology. Vegetation mapping is being finalized as part of the Conservation Element Update. B. Other Major Contributing Efforts As noted above, several other efforts, either before or at the same time as the work of the Natural Resource Inventory Committee, have been made. These include: • Open Space Element. This document provides guidance on identification and selection of lands for public acquisition of fee title or easements, and direction on the management and protection of significant natural resources within the community,both publicly or privately owned. • Land Conservancy's "Saving Special Places"Report (1995). The"Saving Special Places"report carries the above information further to concentrate on the G:Navlik/Bio1ogis1Mi1e Paper 24 greenbelt area outside the City. Sixteen resource categories were evaluated in that report, identifying (both on a topographic basis and on a property basis) the relative values of resource and agricultural lands in the greenbelt area. • Waterway Management Plan for San Luis Obispo Creek. This study, now moving into its second phase, has developed fairly detailed information on the plant communities lining San Luis Obispo Creek. The second phase of the study will expand this study both on San Luis Obispo Creek and onto its major tributaries. This information will be gathered and made available in GIS data base, and will include hydrologic information, topography of the waterway, and descriptions of vegetation types and aquatic habitat along the creek. • Conservation Element Update.. Much of the material from the above source will be consolidated in the Conservation Element of the General Plan, which is currently being updated. Furthermore, the City and consultants are developing specific information on what we are terming "species of local concern" which will go beyond the discussions of endangered or threatened species. Species of local concern may be common elsewhere but are rare in San Luis Obispo or are on the edge of their natural range in our area, both of which are valid reasons to be concerned with their occurrence and survival here. C. Summary of All Efforts Native Plant Communities- being mapped as part of the Conservation Element Update Wildlife and Habitat Corridors—mapped for the greenbelt by the Land Conservancv; additional information in the California Natural Diversity Data Base, Natural San Luis Poster, Bird Guide, Reptile and Amphibian Guide, and Mammal Guide Aquatic Ecosystems—being mapped as part of the Waterway Management Plan, and incorporated by reference into the Conservation Element Update Productive/Potentially Productive Soils—available from the Soil Survey of San Luis Obispo County View sheds—not a biological issue Hillsides—not a biological issue Greenbelt Areas—Areas within and surrounding the City proposed for permanent open space are described(not mapped) in the Land Use and Open Space Elements of the City of San Luis Obispo General Plan. Flood Hazards—available from FEMA data Geological Hazard Areas—available in City of San Luis Obispo Safety Element Soil Hazard Areas—available in Safety Element Noise Impact Areas—available in City of San Luis Obispo Noise Element Airport Hazard Areas—available in the County of San Luis Obispo Airport Land Use Plan Radiation Hazard Areas—available in Safety Element D. What Other Planning Efforts Will Contribute to Our Information Base? • Specific Plans and EIRs (Airport Area, Margarita Area, Orcutt Area). The City has three major areas of anticipated growth and development. These are the Airport, Margarita, and Orcutt Areas, generally referred to as "expansion areas". G:Havlik/BiotogisVWhitePaper 7-25 Detailed studies of each of these areas are either underway or will be underway in the near future. Combined with existing information, planners will have highly detailed resource data to guide development in these areas. Decisions about location and nature of development of these areas will be in large part derived from this information. • Unocal Property Baseline Inventory. Unocal has undertaken a highly detailed study of its major property on Tank Farm Road. As a result of the information covering planning requirements, legal restrictions (such as airport approach zones), and biological and hydrologic data, Unocal and City staff have jointly developed a conceptual Conservation and Development Plan for that significant property. This study effort has incorporated much of the existing knowledge and other City database information in developing the concept. As a result of that information, some significant changes are expected to be proposed for the General Plan designations for the Unocal area. These will be formally considered by the Council during review of the Airport Area Specific Plan. III. What Remains to be Done? Significant effort has gone into (and continues to go into) improving our natural resources data base, and the recommended last step in this effort is the development of a database for"species of local concern". This database will focus on plant and animal species which are uncommon or rare in our area(though perhaps not so overall), and provide guidelines for their conservation. This will cover a number of species which are not given any protective status by the State or Federal government but are of interest or concern in the local area. It is staff's opinion that, combined with the substantial amount of data that already exists and is being used, the work underway with the Conservation Element Update will bring the inventory to a reasonable level of completion. However, such an inventory is always a`work in progress". For example the inventory will be added to as further information is gathered through the specific planning efforts underway in our major expansion areas (Airport Area, Margarita Area, and Orcutt Area) and as other properties develop or are sold into open space protection programs. These specific plans will provide biological and other natural resource information in greater detail, and may result in changes or refinements to land use designations. IV. How Other Communities Use Natural Resource.Inventories: Two Examples Fort Collins, CO. This environmentally aware city has an adopted "Framework for Environmental Action"which describes actions that the City will take or initiate in dealing with a variety of situations or subjects. The City Council of Fort Collins has identified certain open space and natural lands, as well as the Poudre River, as environmentally sensitive areas and has developed policies for their protection and management. The map information, despite being somewhat general in scope, is nevertheless the basis for land use decisions. Santa Cruz County, CA. The County of Santa Cruz has maintained resource inventory maps for the last twenty years. These maps are centrally located in the Planning and Building Department and are used to facilitate many of the Department's functions. Generally speaking, the inventories are used by many different people as a reference and a dynamic information source for such tasks as: G:Hav[ik/BiologisdWhi1e Paper 26 • Land use planning; • Determining the development capacity of a given parcel of land; • Providing property owners with information about their property; • Analyzing environmental impacts of development proposals by triggering a need for more site specific analyses; • Analyzing, monitoring, and protecting watershed areas; • Monitoring timber production and harvesting; • Protecting endangered species; • Reducing natural hazards (from such sources as floods, landslides, and earthquake faults); and • Identifying areas or resources that merit special recognition or protection. V. Using the Inventory/Overlay Information With more inventory information it should be possible to identify areas where certain resources are known to exist in quantities large enough to affect area-wide land use. These areas should then be considered for protection as open space under the City's land use planning program. Information from existing and future inventory information is/will be used in a manner consistent with the policy framework described in Section I of this report. As the City's resource inventory nears completion, our ability to anticipate the presence of particular resources is increased. With this ability,the City will be more effective in reevaluating General Plan programs controlling land use designations, and in"fine-tuning"of land use designations. Reevaluating the land use designations as a result of having more detailed inventory information, however, does not necessarily mean that the Citywide Land Use Map should be amended. Because legal access to private property is limited, on-site inventories for every property as a part of a public resource inventory program is not practical. Evaluation of resources on individual private properties occurs when an individual development that could affect those resources is considered. Application to the City by the property owner gives the City the right to enter the property and evaluate impacts of a proposed project. At such time resources anticipated to be on the property are looked for, and if found,protected (or mitigated) pursuant to the strategy or strategies set by policy for that resource. In this way the General Plan policy framework addresses resources at the parcel or intra-parcel level. G:HavlikBiologisdWhile Paper 27 .: ./ k � -,.e gT� �'�u ,. '.�->, 'y`? —�--,•:_.r`F 1� L`.7i� t..r.ca q i�-� -•.:{� _ ?S.A� (l V'n yy[� 'x�1 .tip �� ter TC y�"7�(e;. YI- 1 1 S• 'fie yy��,,�+.3 �-•' i r 44: r rJ ILI ( t 71 -' it; �� Yr it to r le II i 1 1 liJ • I - �Y r r r r r •� tial ' � a F. j * ✓ i a ? i`�., lid 343 1y y Za sou'- SrsrNIZ ��".V t�lr y:;T ,c L �`i"'�-u-,` *�� ,x7 7-1 Y. - 1.,' � - J i • - SUSTAINABLE CITY PROGRESS REPORT UPDATE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Introduction The implementation plan for the Sustainable City Program calls for periodic assessment of the program to determine its effectiveness. In December 1996, City staff and the Task Force completed the first such assessment with the publication of the Sustainable City Progress Report. This report is an update of the December 1996 progress report and assesses progress made by the City towards meeting the program goals between December 1996 and September 1999, the fifth anniversary of program adoption. Summary of Findings During the first five years of program implementation, significant progress has been made towards meeting the program's goals. This progress is summarized below: Resource Conservation • The total percentage of solid waste diverted from the landfill has increased from 13.8% in 1990 to 35.7% in 1998. • Citywide water usage was reduced by 13.3% between 1990 and 1998. • Citywide greenhouse gas emissions were reduced by 5.2% between 1990 and 1997. • In June 1999 the City began purchasing 100% renewable electricity for all city facilities. In addition, all facilities have been retrofitted to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. • Santa Monica has developed one of the most successful and comprehensive environmentally preferable purchasing programs in the United States. Transportation . Annual ridership on Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus increased by 9.5% between 1990 and 1998. • Average vehicle ridership for employees of companies in Santa Monica with more.than 50 employees increased from 1.13 persons per vehicle in 1993 to 1.37 in 1997. . The percentage of City fleet vehicles operating on reduced emission fuels (natural gas and electricity) has increased from 10% in 1993 to 34% in 1999. 7-29 Pollution Prevention and Public Health Protection • Santa Monica has developed a Toxics Use Reduction program for City operations that has significantly reduced environmental and human health impacts due to the use of hazardous chemicals in all areas of City operations. The program has become a nationwide model for use in other state and local agencies. .The amount of untreated dry-weather urban runoff entering Santa Monica Bay from City outfalls has been reduced by approximately 92% since 1990. Construction of an urban runoff treatment facility.(scheduled for completion early next year) will lead to further runoff reductions and water savings. . Citywide wastewater flows have been reduced approximately 14% between. 1990 and 1998. Community and Economic Development .The number of publicly assisted affordable housing units in the city increased by 47% between 1990 and 1998. . The total amount of public open space in the city increased by 10% between 1990 and 1998. • A Community Forest Management Plan has been completed and the number of trees in public spaces in the city increased by 4.5% between 1995 and 1998. • Organic vegetable and drought-tolerant gardens have been planted at every public school in Santa Monica and an organic salad bar program provides organic produce to students and teachers at six Santa Monica public elementary schools. • Streetscape renovations to improve pedestrian safety and neighborhood quality are underway along Pico Boulevard. • Renovations intended to improve the quality, accessibility and character of existing parks and open space are currently underway or planned throughout the city. Program implementation has also greatly improved since the publication of the December 1996 Sustainable City Progress Report. This has resulted in: improved awareness and participation in the program among City staff, residents and businesses; incorporation of the goals and objectives of the Sustainable City Program into the City's General Plan; and collaboration with local organizations and agencies to broaden the reach of the program throughout the community. 7-30 T However, while significant progress has been made as a result of the Sustainable City Program, several obstacles remain which must be addressed if Santa Monica is to achieve its goal.of becoming a truly sustainable community. These obstacles are summarized below: • In spite of significant reductions in resource use and waste diversion achieved since 1990, resource use and waste generation have.been on the rise in recent years, likely due to impacts of the strengthening local economy. Since 1995, energy use, water use and waste generation have been increasing, largely as a result of increased construction and larger daytime populations resulting from higher occupancy rates in hotels and office buildings. Strong economic conditions contribute to increased consumption as well as increases in waste generation and pollution associated with that consumption. . In spite of significant increases in development of new affordable housing units in the city, the availability of affordable housing in Santa Monica is actually decreasing, largely as a result of a statewide vacancy decontrol regulation that went into effect in 1995. The lack of affordable housing means that it is becoming increasingly more difficult for people to live and.work in Santa Monica. This situation may impact the ability of local businesses, schools and organizations to attract employees and may contribute to increased regional traffic and pollution impacts related to longer employee commutes. . • As noted previously in the December 1996 Sustainable City Progress Report, the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, one of the city's largest employers, has not made a coordinated effort to address sustainability issues within its operations and in the classroom. City staff are currently working to address these obstacles and to build on the progress that has been made during the five years since the Sustainable City Program was adopted. 7-31 COMMUNITY DEVELG, MENT f PROGRAM: Natural Resources Protection OPERATION: Planning DEPARTMENT: Administration FUND: General Fund- r I 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 PROGRAM COSTS ACTUAL BUDGETED BUDGET BUDGET 6 Staffing 87,500 88,200 91,800 92,100 I Contract services 45,300 47,600 61,500 61,500 Other operating expenditures 24,600 39,200 28,200 23,200 Minor capital 0 0 0 0 Total $157;400 $175,000 $181,500 $1769800 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION For a number of years the City of San Luis Obispo has had in place a number of policies and programs which are designed to i protect and enhance the City's natural environment Carrying out these policies and programs was a responsibility shared by a number of departments and staff persons. In 1995 a more formally structured program was created to bring greater overall guidance and a proactive approach to the City's environmental protection and restoration efforts and to the open space and greenbelt programs. This program has two major activities: i ■ Open space/greenbelt acquisition and maintenance. Identifying important open space resources of the community (referred to as the San Luis Obispo greenbelt) and seeking long-term protection of those resources. This involves (1) I educating the community as to the value of open space resources and(2)working with landowners,planning officials,and grant-making organizations to effect long-term land and habitat protection. Methods used to achieve this protection include direct purchase of land or less-than-fee interest in land; accepting dedications of land in conjunction with the granting of development entitlements;accepting outright donations of land or easements;and working with the County on policies that protect the greenbelt Consistent and effective stewardship of open space lands in City ownership is a fundamental component of this activity. ■ .Natural resource proteetdox. Improving the environmental components of development projects and of routine maintenance, regardless of the party carrying it out This is done by (1) participating in the review of development proposals and recommending modifications or mitigations where appropriate, and(2)working with landowners and City staff on maintenance projects affecting sensitive resources or habitats. This may include activities as disparate as advising City staff and homeowners on maintenance practices withm creek areas,to assisting with the development of a mitigation program for a major City capital improvement project This activity also seeks to educate citizens about the community's natural resources by developing an inventory of the City's natural resources and making that information available to the community through various educational and volunteer activities. STAFFING SUMMARY Regular Positions: Natural Resources Manager 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 Secretary 0-3 0_3 0_3 0_3 TOTAL 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 SIGNIFICANT OPERATING PROGRAM CHANGES ■' 1999-01: Responding to an anticipated increase in service needs from the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County, ECOSLO and other consultants, resulting from increases in land acquisition and educational activities over the next two years,will cost an additional$15,000 annually. ■ 1999-01: Continuing to develop and publish natural history guides similar to the Birds of San Luis Obispo will cost $5,200 annually. ■ 1999-00: Implementing the south city entry visual enhancement program, designed to improve the appearance and functioning of the Water Reclamation Facility(WRF)fields as an entryway into the City, will cost$10,000. Of this amount,$5,000 will be paid by the General Fund and$5,000 by the Sewer Fund. D-112 r COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM: Natural Resources Protection OPERATION: Planning r DEPARTMENT: Administration FUND: General Fund- r 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 PROGRAM COSTS ACTUAL BUDGETED BUDGET BUDGET r Staffing 87,500 88,200 91,800 92,100 Contract services 45,300 47,600 61,500 61,500 Other operating expenditures 24,600 39,200 28,200 23,200 Minor capital 0 0 0 0 Total $157,400 $175,000 $181,500 $176,800 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION For a number of years the City of San Luis Obispo has had in place a number of policies and programs which are designed to protect and enhance the City's natural environment. Carrying out these policies and programs was a responsibility shared by a 1 number of departments and staff persons. In 1995 a more formally structured program was created to bring greater overall 1 guidance and a proactive approach to the City's environmental protection and restoration efforts and to the open space and greenbelt programs. This program has two major activities: rr to Open space/greenbelt acquisition and maintenance Identifying important open space resources of the community L, (referred to as the San Luis Obispo greenbelt) and seeking long-term protection of those resources. This involves (1) educating the community as to the value of open space resources and(2)working with landowners,planning officials,and grant-making organizations to effect long-term land and habitat protection. Methods used to achieve this protection include direct purchase of land or less-than-fee interest in land; accepting dedications of land in conjunction with the granting of development entitlements;accepting outright donations of land or easements;and working with the County on r policies that protect the greenbelt. Consistent and effective stewardship of open space lands in City ownership is a 1 fundamental component of this activity. ■ Natural resource protection. Improving the environmental components of development projects and of routine r maintenance, regardless of the party carrying it out. This is done by (1) participating in the review of development L proposals and recommending modifications or mitigations where appropriate, and(2) working with landowners and City staff on maintenance projects affecting sensitive resources or habitats. This may include activities as disparate as advising r City staff and homeowners on maintenance practices within creek areas,to assisting with the development of a mitigation L program for a major City capital improvement project This activity also seeks to educate citizens about the community's natural resources by developing an inventory of the City's natural resources and making that information available to the community through various educational and volunteer activities. STAFFING SUMMARY ` Regular Positions: 1.0 1.0 1.0 ` Natural Resources Manager 1.0 Secretary 0_3 0_3 0_3 .3 TOTAL 1.3 1.3 1.3 1 SIGNIFICANT OPERATING PROGRAM CHANGES ■ 1999-01: Responding to an anticipated increase in service needs from the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County, ECOSLO and other consultants, resulting from increases in land acquisition and educational activities over the next two years,will cost an additional$15,000 annually. ■ 1999-01: Continuing to develop and publish natural history guides similar to the Birds of San Luis Obispo will cost $5,200 annually. ■ 1999-00: Implementing the south city entry visual enhancement program, designed to improve the appearance and functioning of the Water Reclamation Facility(WRF)fields as an entryway into the City,will cost$10,000: Of this amount,$5,000 will be paid by the General Fund and$5,000 by the Sewer Fund D-112 19AHING AGENDA 24 March 2000 DATE 5 °ITEM # • Mayor Allen Settle and E ❑CDD DIR 0 FIN DIR Members of the City Council ❑FIRE CHIEF City of San Luis Obispo,City Hall ❑Pw DIR 990 Palm Street ❑POLICE CHF San Luis Obispo,CA 93401 ❑REC DIR ❑ L DIR EWERS DIR $� Mayor Settle and Honorable Council Members; We,the undersigned,do hereby request that you honor already existing policies and goals found within the City's General Plan elements,especially the Land Use Dement,and hire a City Biologist to carry out these policies and goals. We sould remind you.that,in the early 1990s,the City formally had a part-time biologist position. We request that you adopt the"Minimum Qualifications and Job Description"including the order of job priority herein submitted for the position of City Biologist and advertise for the. position of City Biologist as soon as possible. We thank your for giving our request your highest and most serious consideration. Sincerely, • Kort n per Carla Saunders Chair.FZgTF`93-95 Vice-Char,EQTF`93-95 rd J. jsa Phil Ashley Fisheries Bot st Fish&Wildlife Biologist Member, `93-95 Member EQ T F`93-95 1 �- 1 E dy renz Pat Vcesart Turrell Collins Director,IDC Director, ECOSLO Chair,Sierra Club San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo RECEIVED • MAY 9 - 1000 SLO CITY CLERK I, .TING AGENDA DATE 5" I-ITEM #= "nou"CIL ❑CDD PIR San Luis Obis0) po Chamber of Commerce �cAD ❑FIN DIA • GYA TO ❑PIAL-C'::=: [5-ATTORNEY ❑PW DIA 1039 Chorro Street • San Luis Obispo, California 93401-3278 p CLEAVORIG ❑POLICE C::, (805) 781-2777 • FAX (805) 543.1255 • TDD (805) 541.8416 ❑i.:�'?dT TEAM ❑SE�II.D1R C DIR May 11, 2000 David E. Garth, President/CEO �. PERS DIR �s Mayor Allen Settle Members of the San Luis Obispo City Council City of San Luis Obispo 990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Dear Mayor Settle and City Council Members: The San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce has been a strong supporter of the budget planning process as put in place by City Staff and the City Council. We commend you for the inclusive goal setting method in which community input is welcomed and needs are prioritized based on this input. Because of our belief in this current system, we are opposed to the creation and the hiring of a new staff position, that is, a City Biologist, midyear. The Chamber feels strongly that the appropriate time and place for the discussion of this additional position should be as part of the 2001-03 goal setting and financial plan process. Like you, we believe that community input is very important to goal setting and for this reason, mid year timing for such a major decision is inappropriate. It seems inconsistent to say "we respect the process" but then proceed to make new goals and costly decisions "mid-stream," so to speak. By taking action at this time on the matter of a city biologist position, the Council is sending a message that will encourage others to pursue budgetary allocations for special interests throughout the year rather than conforming to the accepted method of goal setting and inclusive planning that has worked so well. We thank-you for your consideration of our concerns in this matter and look forward to your continued inclusive approach to budget decisions. Sincerely, FRECEIVED RECEIVED Dave Cox 000 MAY 1 1 2000 Chairman of the BoardSLOCITY CCtUP:CIL LERK e-mail: slochamber@slochamber.org • websites: www.slochamber.org www.visitslo.com MEETING AGENDA 7 DAT 5'16-o0 ITFM COUNCIL 0 CDD PIR San Luis Obispo,CA 93405 805/5443399 email: akrejsa@poIymail.cpuni caWktedu> 9 Mayi26(J01:'� San Luis Obispo City Council [4TTORNEY ❑PW DIFl f 990 Palm St., SLO, CA 93401 iCLERKIORIG ❑POLICE C;:? ❑gGMT TEA(d ❑REC DIR ❑UTIL DIR Mayor Settle and Honorable Members of the City Council: ,� WRs DIR $ In February, 1995,during the adoption of Major City Goals, and again in April 1995, I spoke for the EQTF in urging that the City Council opt for advertising a full-time Biologist position as soon as possible In the new budget cycle. The City Council chose to ignore our request and hired the NRM position instead. We were told at the time that we should approach this in a step-wise manner and that,in the next Budget Cycle, the City Biologist position would be re-considered. In February, 1997, I asked Council to again consider the City Biologist position that had been cut out of its previous two-year budget cycle, trusting that they would honor what the EQTF took in good faith to be a promise.With the EQTF no longer in existence, and only Phil Ashley and myself there without a large lobby of supporters to back us up, the Council ignored our request. On 17 June 1997, again to no avail, I implored the City Council as a matter of eco-justice: "I am still speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves: the creatures,plants and animals,some of which are threatened or endangered,right here in the City,or in San Luis Obispo Creek,and I implore you to reconsider the hiring of a City Biologist,preferably a wildlife and fisheries specialist,who will help you to decide when and where you must be careful in doing all these other things you are planning to do to our city with the rest of the budget money." In October 1999, and at subsequent meetings of your Council last Fall,I called attention to what was happening at two SLO Creek projects under the unwatchful eye of City-paid environmental • consultants and monitors. I prefaced my remarks saying that I thought my request, of itself,was logical and timely and I did not think it necessary to bring a large gang of supporters to bolster it. At mid-year budget review,29 February 2000, I once again represented 11 former EQTF members before Council and quoted chapter and verse from adopted 1994 LUE Policy 6.01: "It is the policy of the City to protect its unique natural resources and systems by including their considerations and needs within its planning program,and giving those considerations and needs a planning priority co-equal with that accorded other community needs....Under this policy,the City will make provisions for the continued existence of its natural resources within the community...The term"community"thus includes not only the urbanized human community,dominated by urban land development and technological systems,but also a natural community rich in biological and geological diversity,as well as a pre-urban human community with a strong agricultural base." Honorable members of the City Council, your 6-year old LUE policy 6.01 has never received"a planning priority co-equal with that accorded other community needs," and several LUE goals (especially#s 2,3,4, &8), intended to facilitate that policy,have gone a long time wanting. On 24 March 2000, various esteemed environmental personages from our community wrote you in support of a City Biologist position.At your May 16th meeting, I once again urge your full support in hiring a City Biologist to help honor and protect our precious environmental heritage. Your positive action on 16 May will help enhance our city's quality of life and will be one large step toward achieving the environmental parity lauded in already-adopted city policy and goals. Your support also will help our citizens recognize that(in the words of Rev. Ronald RolheiserI): "Physical nature too has inherent rights,namely,rights that are intrinsic to itself and not simply given to it because of its relationship to humanity.The earth is not just a stage for human beTr. on. It too is a creature of God with its own rights,which humans may not violate." • to 'chap D 1 Ronald Rolheiser, 1999."The Holy Longing,"published by Doublday,New York,NY. MAY 9 - 2000 SLO CITY CLERK MttTIN " AGENDA DATE_ITEM #= May 12,2000 @COUNCIL7FIRE R GYCA0 TO: Mayor and Ci Council G69TOVCAO HIEFy t3' ORNEYCLERKIORIG CHFFROM: Council Member Jan Howell Marg ❑ GMT TEAMIRIRDlfl 15 RE: Need for City Biologist Position I support the establishment of a City Biologist position. Basically, San Luis Obispo needs more staff expertise in this area so that we can comply with the myriad regulations that apply to the city and so that we can comply with the requirements of CEQA. But also, having a City Biologist will save the City and individual applicants money over time. Surfacing the biological facts about our environment will help everyone, as well as help the environment. A City Biologist will give us good information so we can make good decisions. Attached for your information are a few CEQA regulations (Cal. Admin Code title 14, sections 15065,15070, 15097, and 15169). These regulation.-,demonstrate bow important it is for the decision making body to have access to accurate biological information when complying with CEQA in making Mandatory Findings of Significance (15065)evaluate whether a Negative Declaration is appropriate(15070)or evaluate the effectiveness or efficiency of a mitigation monitoring program. Having an Inventory, or"Master Environmental Assessment" (15169) is encouraged under CEQA. It will also end up saving the City and private applicants money because the necessary environmental information will be in an accessible central data base, not scattered throughout EIRs. But, a complete, current Inventory is not possible without appropriate staff support. As shown in section(d), an inventory has many important uses including identifying design and location of individual projects, determining whether certain effects will be significant, providing a central source for current information for use in preparing individual EIRs and Negative declarations, identifying long range cumulative impacts,and identifying various areas' environmental constraints and characteristics for General Plan purposes. Creating the position of a City Biologist is not, as the Chamber of Commerce has argued, catering to a special interest group. To the contrary, such a position will help the entire City stay out of trouble with regulatory agencies,save private applicants money, and help San Luis Obispo retain its natural beauty,which is so uniquely attractive to tourists and business. RECEIVED MAY 1 2 2000 SLO CITY CLERK Page CA-ADC - 14 CA ADC s 15065 14 CCR s 15065 Cal. Admin. Code tit. 14, s 15065 BARCLAYS OFFICIAL CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 14 . Natural Resources Division 6. Resources Agency Chapter 3. Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act Article 5. Preliminary Review of Projects and Conduct of Initial Study s 15065. Mandatory Findings of Significance. A lead agency shall find that a project may have a significant effect on the environment and thereby require an EIR to be prepared for the project where any of the following conditions occur: �* (a) The project has the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or threatened species, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory. (b) The project has the potential to achieve short-term environmental goals to the disadvantage of long-term environmental goals. (c) The project has possible environmental effects which are individually limited but cumulativelv considerable. "Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental eff-^ts of an individual project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effect: past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects as defined in Section 15130. (d) The environmental effects of a project will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly. Note: Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21087, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 21001 (c) and 21083, Public Resources Code; and San Joaquin Raptor/Wildlife Center v. County of Stanislaus (1996) 42 Cal.App.4th 608 . History 1. Amendment of subsection (a) and Note filed 5-27-97; operative 5-27-97 pursuant to Government Code section 11343.4 (d) (Register 97, No. 22) . 2. Amendment of subsection (c) and Note filed 10-26-98; operative 10-26-98 pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21087 (Register 98, No. 44) . Copr. (C) West 2000 No Claim to Orig. U.S. Govt. Works Page i CA-ADC - 14 CA ADC s 150'10 1 'R s 15070 Cal. Admin. Code tit. 14, s 15070 BARCLAYS OFFICIAL CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 14 . Natural Resources Division 6. Resources Agency Chapter 3. Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act Article 6. Negative Declaration Process s 15070. Decision to Prepare a Negative or Mitigated Negative Declaration. A public agency shall prepare or have preared a proposed negative declaration or mitigated negative declaration for a project subject to CEQA when: (a) The initial study shows that there is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before the agency, that the project may have a significant effect on the environment, or (b) The initial study identifies potentially significant effects, but: (1) Revisions in the project plans or proposals made by or agreed to by the applicant before a proposed mitigated negative declaration and initial study are released for public review would avoid the effects or mitigate the effects to a point where clearly no significant effects would occur, and (2) There is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record before the agency, t' the project as revised may have a significant effect on the environment. Note: Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21087, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 21064, 21064 .5, 21080 (c) and 21082.1, Public Resources Code; Friends of B Street V. City of Hayward, (1980) 106 Cal. App'. 3d 988; Running Fence Corp. v. Superior Court, (1975) 51 Cal. App. 3d 400. History 1. Repealer of Article 6 (Sections 15060-15069.8) and new Article 6 (Sections 15070-15075) filed 7-13-83; designated effective 8-1-83 (Register 83, No. 29) . For prior history, see Registers 80, No. 1.9; 78, No. 5; 76, No. 41; 75, No. l; .and 73, No. 50) . 2. Editorial correction of 7-13-83 order redesignating effective date to 8-1-83 filed 7-14-83 (Register 83, No. 29) . 3. Amendment of section heading, section and Note filed 5-27-97; operative 5- 27-97 pursuant to Government Code section 11343.4 (d) (Register 97, No. 22) . (State EIR Guidelines) Copr. (C) West 2000 No Claim to Orig. U.S. Govt. Works 14 CA ADC s 15097 Pap 13 14 CCR s 15097 Cal. Admin. Code tit. 14, s 15097 BARCLAYS OFFICIAL CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Tale 14.Natural Resources Division 6. Resources Agency Chapter 3. Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act Article 7. EIR Process s 15097. Mitigation Monitoring or Reporting. (a)This section applies when a public agency has made the findings required under paragraph (1)of subdivision (a) of Section 15091 relative to an EIR or adopted a mitigated negative declaration in conjunction with approving a project. In order to ensure that the mitigation measures and project revisions identified in the EIR or negative declaration are implemented, the public agency shall adopt a program for monitoring or reporting on the revisions which it has required in the project and the measures it has imposed to mitigate or avoid significant environmental effects. A public agency may delegate reporting or monitoring responsibilities to another public agency or to a private entity which accepts the delegation; however, until mitigation measures have been completed the lead agency remains responsible for ensuring that implementation of the mitigation measures occurs in accordance with the program. (b) Where the project at issue is the adoption of a general plan, specific plan, community plan or other plan- level document(zoning, ordinance, regulation, policy), the monitoring plan shall apply to policies and any other portion of the plan that is a mitigation measure or adopted alternative. The monitoring plan may consist of policies included in plan-level documents. The annual report on general plan status required pursuant to the Government Code is one example of a reporting program for adoption of a city or county general plan. (c) The public agency may choose whether its program will monitor mitigation, report on mitigation, or both. "Reporting" generally consists of a written compliance review that is presented to the decision mating body or authorized staff person. A report may be required at various stages during project implementation or upon completion of the mitigation measure. "Monitoring" is generally an ongoing or periodic process of project oversight. There is often no clear distinction between monitoring and reporting and the program best suited to ensuring compliance in any given instance will usually involve elements of both. The choice of program may be guided by the following: ..)K (1) Reporting is suited to projects which have readily measurable or quantitative mitigation measures or which already involve regular review. For example, a report may be required upon issuance of final occupancy to a project whose mitigation measures were confirmed by building inspection. -* (2) Monitoring is suited to projects with complex mitigation measures, such as wetlands restoration or archeological protection, which may exceed the expertise of the local agency to oversee, are expected to be implemented over a period of time, or require careful implementation to assure compliance. (3) Reporting and monitoring are suited to all but the most simple projects. Monitoring ensures that project compliance is checked on a regular basis during and, if necessary after, implementation. Reporting ensures that the approving agency is informed of compliance with mitigation requirements. (d) Lead and responsible agencies should coordinate their mitigation monitoring or reporting programs where possible. Generally, lead and responsible agencies for a given project will adopt separate and different monitoring or reporting programs. This occurs because of any of the following reasons: the agencies have adopted and are responsible for reporting on or monitoring different mitigation measures; the agencies are deciding on the project at different times; each agency has the discretion to choose its own approach to monitoring or reporting; and each Copr. 0 West 2000 No Claim to Orig. U.S. Govt. Works 14 CA ADC s 15097 Page 14 agency has its own special expertise. (e) At its discretion, an agency may adopt standardized policies and requirements to guide individually adopted monitoring or repotting programs. Standardized policies and requirements may describe, but are not limited to: (1) The relative responsibilities of various departments within the agency for various aspects of monitoring or reporting, including lead responsibility for administering typical programs and support responsibilities. (2)The responsibilities of the project proponent. (3) Agency guidelines for preparing monitoring or reporting programs. (4) General standards for determining project compliance with the mitigation measures or revisions and related conditions of approval. (5) Enforcement procedures for noncompliance, including provisions for administrative appeal. -*(6) Process for informing staff and decision makers of the relative success of mitigation measures and using those results to improve future mitigation measures. (f) Where a trustee agency, in timely commenting upon a draft EIR or a proposed mitigated negative declaration, proposes mitigation measures or project revisions for incorporation into a project, that agency, at the same time, shall prepare and submit to the lead or responsible agency a draft monitoring or reporting program for those measures or revisions. The lead or responsible agency may use this information in preparing its monitoring or reporting program. (g) When a project is of statewide, regional, or areawide importance, any transportation information generated by a required monitoring or reporting program shall be submitted to the transportation planning agency in the region where the project is located. Each transportation planning agency shall adopt guidelines for the submittal of such information. Note: Authority: Sections 21083 and 21087, Public Resources Code. References: Sections 21081.6 and 21081.7, Public Resources Code. History 1. New section filed 10-26-98; operative 10-26-98 pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21087(Register 98, No. 44). (State EIR Guidelines) < <(Chapter Originally Printed 2-10-73)> > 14 CA ADC s 15097 END OF DOCUMENT Copr. 0 West-2000 No Claim to Orig. U.S. Govt. Works 14 CA ADC s 15169 Page 16 14 CCR s 15169 Cal. Admin. Code tit. 14, s 15169 BARCLAYS OFFICIAL CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS Title 14.Natural Resources Division 6. Resources Agency Chapter 3. Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act Article 11. Types of EIRs s 15169. Master Environmental Assessment. (a) General. A public agency may prepare a master environmental assessment, inventory, or data base for all, or a portion of, the territory subject to its control in order to provide information which may be used or referenced in EIRs or negative declarations. Neither the content, the format, nor the procedures to be used to develop a master environmental assessment are prescribed by these guidelines. The descriptions contained in this section are advisory. A master environmental assessment is suggested solely as an approach to identify and organize environmental information for a region or area of the state. (b) Contents. A master environmental assessment may contain an inventory of the physical and biological characteristics of the area for which it is prepared and may contain such additional data and information as the public agency determines is useful or necessary to describe environmental characteristics of the area. It may include identification of existing levels of quality and supply of air and water, capacities and levels of use of existing services and facilities, and generalized incremental effects of different categories of development projects by type, scale, and location. (c) Preparation. (1) A master environmental assessment or inventory may be prepared in many possible ways. For example, a master environmental assessment may be prepared as a special, comprehensive study of the area involved, as part of the EIR on a general plan, or as a data base accumulated by indexing EIRs prepared for individual projects or programs in the area involved. (2)The information contained in a master environmental assessment should be reviewed periodically and revised as needed so that it is accurate and current. (3) When advantageous to do so, master environmental assessments may be prepared through a joint exercise of powers agreement with neighboring local agencies or with the assistance of the appropriate Council of Governments. (d) Uses. (1) A master environmental assessment can identify the environmental characteristics and constraints of an area. This information can be used to influence the design and location of individual projects. (2) A master environmental assessment may provide information agencies can use in initial studies to decide whether certain environmental effects are likely to occur and whether certain effects will be significant. (3) A master environmental assessment can provide a central source of current information for use in preparing individual EIRs and negative declarations. (4) Relevant portions of a master environmental assessment can be referenced and summarized in EIRs and negative declarations. . Copr. 0 West 2000 No Claim to Orig. U.S. Govt. Works 14 CA ADC s 15169 Page 17 (5)A master environmental assessment can assist in identifying long range, areawide, and cumulative impacts of individual projects proposed in the area covered by the assessment. (6) A master environmental assessment can assist a city or county in formulating a general plan or any element of such a plan by identifying environmental characteristics and constraints that need to be addressed in the general plan. (7) A master environmental assessment can serve as a reference document to assist public agencies which review other environmental documents dealing with activities in the area covered by the assessment. The public agency preparing the assessment should forward a completed copy to each agency which will review projects in the area. Note: Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21087, Public Resources Code. Reference: Section 21003, Public Resources Code. (State EIR Guidelines) < <(Chapter Originally Printed 2-10-73)> > 14 CA ADC s 15169 END OF DOCUMENT Copr. 0 West•2000 No Claim to Orig. U.S. Govt. Works