HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/18/2002, P.H. 1 B - ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT TO ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF THE DAMON-GARCI SPORTS FIELDS COMPLEX WITH CREEK I
council M°�th,G
j acEnaa aEpom0_ ,S
CITY OF SAN LUIS 0 B I S P 0
FROM: John Mandeville,Community Development Directo6� Fo., '5"1
Prepared By: Michael Codron,Associate Planner
SUBJECT: ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT TO ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF
THE DAMON-GARCIA SPORTS FIELDS COMPLEX WITH CREEK
SETBACK EXCEPTIONS AND ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW.
CAO RECOMMENDATION
As recommended by the Planning Commission, approve an Administrative Use Permit for the
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex and adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the
project.
REPORT-IN-BRIEF
The Parks and Recreation Department has applied for an Administrative Use Permit to allow the
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields complex to be developed in the Public Facility and
Conservation/Open Space zoning districts. Orcutt Creek and Acacia Creek cross the site, and
creek setback exceptions are requested for three bridges (one existing), which are necessary to
provide access to the fields, and a portion of a pathway. Significant landscaping is proposed to
restore riparian corridors along the creeks. The City has received approval from the Army Corps
of Engineers for the realignment of Orcutt Creek, which is necessary to optimize field alignment.
A Mitigated Negative Declaration is proposed, with mitigation measures and monitoring
programs to reduce all of the project related environmental impacts to less than significant levels.
Other issues related to the project include night lighting of the fields and limited parking
availability during the youth soccer season. The Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) has
unanimously supported the project on two prior occasions. The design of the park has received
approval from the Architectural Review Commission(ARC). At this time, staff and the Planning
Commission(unanimously)are recommending approval of the proposed use permit, based on
findings and subject to conditions of approval.
DISCUSSION
Situation
The development of the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields plan has been an effort of the Parks and
Recreation Department and FIRMA, working in collaboration with the public, other project
consultants and the Parks and Recreation Commission. Staff is now asking for Council approval
of an Administrative Use Permit for the project, including approval of creek setback exceptions
and a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact. In October, staff will return to
/.e- I
� Attachr►lent 4
6. Extensions. General condition 1 establishes a time limit for the completion of the activity
authorized by this permit. Unless there are circumstances requiring either a prompt completion
of the authorized activity or a reevaluation of the public interest decision,the Corps will normally
give you favorable consideration to a request for an extension of this time limit.
Your signature below, as permittee, indicates that you accept and agree to comply with the terms
and conditions of this permit.
PERIV=EE DATE
This permit becomes effective when the Federal official, designated to act for the Secretary of the
Army,has signed below.
Mark F.Sudol,D.Env. DATE
Chief,Regulatory Branch
When the structures or work authorized by this permit are still in existence at the time the
property is transferred, the terms and conditions of this permit will continue to be binding on the
new owner(s) of the property. To validate the transfer of this permit.and the associated liabilities
associated with compliance with its terms and conditions, have the transferee sign and date
below.
TRANSFEREE DATE
5
�3.zq
Attachment 4
- a
bat
LOS ANGELES DISTRICT
U.S.ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY PERMIT
Permit Number. 200100244-LM
Name of Permittee: City of San Luis Obispo,Parks and Recreation Department
Attn:Paul Le Sage,Director
Date of Issuance: March 29,2002
Upon completion of the activity authorized by this permit,sign this certification and return
it to the following address:
Regulatory Branch-Los Angeles District Office
ATTN:CESPL-CO-R-200100244-LM
P.O.Box 532711
Los Angeles,California 90053.2325
Please note that your permitted activity is subject to a compliance inspection by an Army
Corps of Engineers representative. If you fail to comply with this permit you may be subject to
permit suspension,modification,or revocation.
I hereby certify that the work authorized by the above referenced permit has been
completed in accordance with the terms and conditions of said permit.
Signature of Permittee
6
lam'30
tta inent A
a;
lu
�� ,, I �VVY \ `� � � tea• a'o �.
i t� f• � �' 1 i_7� �, S.r... �2Yp{L�t.. \0�
P,
well
may` 1
�`•-. `.��� _ `.��\\ �\ I t\ � \`` \moi
an
i � ' •� I. 1 I I � I ami \y/�T.� e
UL
IL
ca
it
o oOL
AOL
Attachment 5
MY1�
Of SAA I W,S OBISW Department' of Comm,mity Development
"•9 Planning Division
April 29, 2002
TO: Paul LeSage, Director of Parks and Recreation
File: A and ER 185-99
FROM: Ronald Whisenand, Deputy Community Development Director
Development Review
SUBJECT: Review of a use permit, environmental review, and possible zone
reclassification from Conservation/Open Space (C/OS) to Public Facilities
(PF) and Conservation/Open (C/OS) for development of a City sports field
complex with possible creek setback exceptions
The Planning Commission, at its meeting of April 24, 2002-, recommended that the City
Council take action to approve the project, as noted in the attached resolution, with the
following provision:
1. Mitigation Measure 5 (5b) shall be deleted from the environmental document since
the construction of Prado Road is not a part of the project.
The action of the Planning Commission is a recommendation to the City Council and,
therefore, is not final. This matter has been tentatively scheduled for public hearing
before the City Council on June 18, 2002. This date, however, should be verified with
the City Clerk's office (ext. 102).
If there any questions, please contact Michael Codron at 781-7175.
Attachment: Resolution 5334-02
cc: County of SLO Assessor's Office
/�3Z
� Attachment 5
RESOLUTION NO. 5334-02
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO PLANNING
COMMISSION RECOMMENDING APPROVAL TO THE CITY
COUNCIL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT TO ALLOW
SPORTS FIELDS IN THE CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE AND PUBLIC
FACILITY ZONES AND RECOMMENDING ADOPTION OF A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT FOR THE PROJECT (A/ER 185-99)
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on
June 23, 1999 for the purpose of determining if acquisition of the property by the City conforms
with the General Plan, which designates the property for Park uses and determined that the
property acquisition was consistent with the General Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on
November 3, 1999 for the purpose of formulating a recommendation to the City Council on the
annexation of the project site, and recommended approval of the annexation to the City Council,
which was approved by the Council and officially annexed to the City on November 8, 2000;and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on
April 24, 2002 for the purpose of considering Application A/ER 189-99, an administrative use
permit with environmental review for a project to develop a sports field complex on the project
site; and
WHEREAS, said public hearing was for the purpose of formulating and forwarding
recommendations to the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo regarding the project; and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearings were made at the time and in the manner
required by law; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed and considered the Mitigated Negative
Declaration of environmental impact and the mitigation monitoring program prepared for the
project; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has duly considered all evidence, including the
testimony of the applicant, interested parties, and the evaluation and recommendations by staff,
presented at said hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of
San Luis Obispo as follows:
/g-33
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution#5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 2
Section 1. Findings. Based upon all the evidence, the Commission makes the following
findings:
1. As conditioned, the project will not harm the general health, safety or welfare of people
living or working in the vicinity of the project site because conditions of approval are
required to insure that the pathways are designed accommodate emergency response
vehicles and the Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project adequately evaluates
project impacts, and where impacts are considered to be significant, mitigation measures
are recommended to reduce the impacts to less than significant levels..
2. The proposed project is consistent with the General Plan, which designates the project
site as Park, because the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields project will accommodate existing
demand for sports fields in the City.
3. The Parks and Recreation Element of the General Plan lists athletic fields as an unmet
need and includes the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Construction in the 0-4 year
implementation plan.
4. The proposed athletic fields are compatible with the project site and with existing and
potential future uses in the vicinity because the field lighting has been designed to reduce
spill light and glare to the greatest extent possible, while still providing for flexibility in
field use and layout.
5. As conditioned, the proposed parking lot, with 157 parking spaces, is adequate to meet
the projected parking demand for a majority of the year. During the 10 Saturdays per
year when it is anticipated that parking demand will exceed the supply, off-site parking
options as well as demand management strategies will effectively eliminate impacts from
an inadequate parking supply. A one-year review of parking at the facility by the
Administrative Hearing Officer will insure a coordinated approach to parking demand
management at the facility.
Section 2. Creek Setback Exceptions, Findings. The Planning Commission does hereby
grant creek setback exceptions for the proposed bridges and for the planned bicycle and
pedestrian pathway north of the realigned Orcutt Creek, as shown on Exhibit A, based on the
following findings.
1. The location and design of the feature receiving the exception will minimize impacts to
scenic resources, water quality, and riparian habitat, including opportunities for wildlife
habitation, rest and movement because the proposed bridges are foot bridges that are
small in scope and the additional exceptions are for pathways that will not effect scenic
resources and that are located outside of the riparian corridors that will be restored as part
of the proposed project.
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution#5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 3
2. The exception will not limit the City's design options for providing flood control
measures that are needed to achieve adopted City flood policies because the project is a
sports fields project with limited new coverage by impervious surfaces and the project is
being designed to leave the current drainage pattern of the site unaltered.
3. The exception will not prevent the implementation of City-adopted plans, nor increase
the adverse environmental effects of implementing such plans because the purpose of the
project is to implement a City-adopted plan to provide athletic fields and the project
includes significant improvement and restoration of a degraded creek corridor along
Acacia Creek and Orcutt Creek.
4. There are circumstances applying to the site, such as shape and topography, that do not
apply generally to land in the vicinity with the same zoning, that would deprive the
property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity with the same zoning
because the project site is bisected by two creeks that are being restored to the extent that
their biological value will far exceed their current state, and if the creeks cannot be
bridged then a significant portion of the property would be unusable, and if the pathway
adjacent to Orcutt Creek is realigned outside of the future creek setback area then it will
directly impact the goal of the project, which is to meet some of the existing demand for
athletic fields in the City.
5. The exception will not constitute a grant of special privilege — an entitlement inconsistent
with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity with the same zoning - because
there are circumstances that apply to this site that don't apply to other sites in the vicinity
with the same zoning and the City evaluates all creek setback exceptions independently
according to the requirements of the Creek Setback Ordinance and the required findings
contained in the Ordinance.
6. The exception will not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property
in the area of the project or downstream because the project will have a net
environmental benefit on the creek corridor and the project has been designed to leave the
overall drainage of the area unchanged, especially in consideration of the potential effects
on downstream properties.
7. Site development cannot be accomplished with a redesign of the project because every
potential orientation of the fields initially reviewed involves some form of creek setback
exception because of the location of the two creeks that bisect the property.
8. Redesign of the project would deny the property owner reasonable use of the property
because a redesign to avoid all creek setback exceptions would significantly reduce the
amount of usable sports field area that could be developed, leaving the City with a
continuing unmet need for athletic fields.
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution#5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 4
Section 3. Environmental Review. The Planning Commission does hereby recommend
that the City Council adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project, with the following
mitigation measures and monitoring programs. (Numbers in parentheses refer to the Initial
Study section where the mitigation measure occurs.)
1. Mitigation Measure (ld)
To minimize the effect of sports field lighting. The design shall employ no more than eleven
poles east of Acacia Creek and four poles west of Acacia Creek with a maximum of 80-foot
poles. The level of of-site spill at the Route 227 right-of-way shall not exceed 1.50 foot candles.
The level of spill west of Acacia Creek shall not exceed an average of 1.9 foot candles. Park
policy shall be that lights are off at 10:00 P.M.
• Monitoring Program:
The Community Development Department shall verify final lighting plan substantially conforms
to the measure. The City Public Works Department shall retain an engineer to verify off-site spill
levels meet the limits in the measure.
2. Mitigation Measure (3)
The following mitigation measures are required to reduce short-term (construction) air quality
impacts. Proper implementation of these measures shall be assumed to achieve a 50% reduction
in fugitive dust emissions. The use of soil binders on completed cut-and-fill areas has the
potential to reduce fugitive dust emissions by 80%:
a. Reduce the amount of the disturbed area where possible.
b. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dust
from leaving the site. Increased watering frequency would be required whenever wind
speeds exceed 15 mph. Reclaimed(non-potable) water should be used whenever
possible.
C. All dirt stockpile areas should be sprayed daily as needed.
d. Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved project revegetation and
landscape plans should be implemented as soon as possible following completion of any
soil disturbing activities.
e. Exposed ground areas that are planned to be reworked at dates greater than one month
after initial grading should be sown with a fast-germinating native grass seed and watered
until vegetation is established.
f. All disturbed soil areas not subject to re-vegetation should be stabilized using approved
chemical soil binders,jute netting, or other methods approved in advance by the APCD.
ih- 3G
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution#5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 5
g. All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc., to be paved should be completed as soon as
possible. In addition, building pads should be laid as soon as possible after grading unless
seeding or soil binders are used.
h. Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph on any unpaved
surface at the construction site.
is All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to be covered or should
maintain at least two feet of freeboard (minimum vertical distance between top of load
and top of trailer) in accordance with CVC Section 23114. This measure has the potential
to reduce PM10 emissions by 7-14%.
j. Install wheel washers where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto streets, or wash
off trucks and equipment leaving the site. This measure has the potential to reduce PM10
emissions by 40-70%.
k. Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent paved
roads. Water sweepers with reclaimed water should be used where feasible. This measure
has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by 25-60%.
1. All PM10 mitigation measures required should be shown on grading and building plans.
In addition, the contractor or builder should designate a person or persons to monitor the
dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary, to prevent transport
of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holidays and weekend periods when work may
not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to
the APCD prior to land use clearance for map recordation and land use clearance for
finish grading of the structure.
o Monitoring Program:
The City Public Works Department designated Project Inspector shall monitor compliance
during construction.
3. Mitigation Measure (4b-c)
a. To mitigate impacts on riparian wetland resources:
b. The realigned section of Orcutt Creek should be created to meander and be sized so that a
meandering low-flow channel can be established over time.
C. Design created seasonal wetland habitat adjacent to both sides of the realigned Orcutt
Creek with a curved and rounded border.
d. Salvage impacted wetland plant material and top six inches of soil for use as inoculum in
the created wetland habitat.
e. Enhance Acacia Creek with woody riparian tree and shrub plantings. Removal of grazing
should also help restore the riparian cover.
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution #5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 6
f. Flood control improvements on Acacia Creek should maximize the use of biotechnical
methods and minimize the amount of rock.
g. Create a habitat connection between the two creeks on the southern property boundary.
Native trees, shrubs, and herbs should be installed to create vegetated cover for wildlife
movement between the two creeks and to discourage human access.
h. Acacia and Orcutt creeks should be fenced with an average 25-foot buffer zone to
discourage access by people. Educational signage should be positioned along the fence
line informing the public of the sensitivity of the habitat and to encouragestewardshipby
not entering the fenced area.
Y Monitoring Program:
The City Natural Resources Manager shall review final plans for creek enhancement. The City
shall retain a biological monitor to monitor construction and provide post-construction reports.
4. Mitigation Measure (4d)
To mitigate potential impacts on Southwestern Pond Turtle:
a. Construct the new Orcutt Creek channel prior to filling the existing channel.
b. Water should be diverted into the new Orcutt Creek channel for at least one week before
filling and grading the old channel. This will allow for passive migration of turtles into
the new channel. Prior to filling or grading activities in the old channel, a qualified
biologist should survey the old channel for stranded turtles and relocate them to the new
channel.
C. To minimize pond turtles from straying into the construction areas, silt fencing should be
installed and maintained in working condition at the location of the riparian setback along
both Acacia and Orcutt creeks during all construction phases.
d. In order to minimize potential disturbance of pond turtle nest sites, all improvements to
Acacia Creek should be conducted as late in the dry season as is feasible. A qualified
biologist should be on the site during all earthmoving work on Acacia Creek to rescue
and relocate any stranded pond turtles. Arrangements for captive rearing of yearling
turtles for one year and then release the following spring should be included as mitigation
in the event a nest is disturbed.
e. The two creeks and wetlands should be fenced with educational signs on the sensitivity of
the habitat areas to prevent intrusion by people. Mention of presence of the pond turtle
should not be made on the educational signs so as to not promote collection for pets..
An educational brochure or other materials shall be provided to each of the city workers
who will be responsible for park maintenance that provides information regarding the
correct procedures for protecting the turtles.
� 3 3�
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution#5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 7
f. The City Biologist shall be designated the contact person for monitoring turtle sightings.
The name and telephone number of the City Biologist should be included in the
educational information. The contact person shall maintain records of turtle sightings,
including the specific location and circumstances of the sightings and explanation of
what, if any, action was taken. Turtle harassment must be reported to the California
Department of Fish and Game.
e Monitoring Program:
The City Natural Resources Manager shall review final construction specifications. The City
shall retain a biological monitor to ensure measure compliance during construction.
5. Mitigation Measure (5b) (Deleted by Planning Commission)
6. Mitigation Measure (8f)
To maintain levels of increased nitrogen in the creeks at as low of rates as practical, the City
shall employ fertilization techniques in combination with an overall turf management program
that applies nitrogen fertilizer at rates and in a form that is efficiently taken up by the turf with
minimum residual nitrogen in the root zone or below. The City shall monitor and test water
quality in Orcutt and Acacia creeks downstream of the project prior to development, once during
turf establishment, and annually for three years to ensure nitrogen levels are not producing
adverse algae increases. Fertilization frequency and type shall be adjusted accordingly, if
necessary.
• Monitoring Program:
The City Natural Resources Manager shall coordinate water testing with the Public Works
Department Parks Maintenance Division and retain a monitor if necessary to evaluate algae
levels.
7. Mitigation Measure (15a-b)
To allow safe access to the site the Broad Street/Industrial Way intersection configuration and
signal shall be modified to improve the west leg for access to the project parking lot. The City
shall retain a civil /traffic engineer to prepare intersection plans for approval by Caltrans and the
City Public Works Department.
• Monitoring Program:
The City Public Works Department shall review final intersection plans and obtain Caltrans
encroachment permit.
lls--39
Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution#5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 8
8. Mitigation Measure (15f)
To reduce peak seasonal parking deficit, the City shall enter into an agreement with the Lathrop
property to provide Saturday overflow parking. If this arrangement does not provide sufficient
parking the City shall require the Youth Soccer League to modify its activities to reduce peak
parking demand, i.e., spread game start times to reduce overlap of team arrival/departure.
• Monitoring.Program:
The City Parks and Recreation Department shall secure agreement for off-site parking and
monitor parking annually during youth soccer season.
Section 4. Recommendation. The Planning Commission does hereby recommend to the
City Council approval of application A/ER 185-99, subject to the following conditions of
approval.
1. All mitigation measures approved as part of the Mitigated Negative Declaration for the
project are hereby made conditions of project approval.
2. Night time activities on the sports fields shall be programmed to be completed early
enough to allow for park users to safely exit the field area prior to 10:00 P.M. when the
lights are required to be turned off.
3. Trash and recycling receptacles shall be placed at both sides of each creek crossing
within the project site to help insure that the creeks stay clean.
4. No amplification, such as bullhorns, shall be allowed if they exceed any standard in the
Noise Ordinance.
5. Special events or temporary uses of the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex shall
require prior approval of an Administrative Use Permit.
6. The Parks and Recreation Department shall submit a parking management plan for
review and approval by the Community Development Director prior to the
commencement of field use. The plan shall identify off-site parking spaces that are being
used to meet peak parking demand needs and shall discuss alternative transportation
strategies and parking demand reduction strategies that will be employed to insure that
parking does not become a significant problem at the facility.
7. The Planning Commission will review the parking situation at the facility after the first
full year of field use to determine the effectiveness of the approved parking management
plan. If a coordinated solution to identified parking problems is required, then additional
measures shall be required as conditions of approval of the review.
/�-yD
_ Attachment 5
Planning Commission Resolution #5334-02
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 9
8. Bike racks shall be located in convenient locations along the bike path throughout the
park site to encourage and facilitate bike use among park users.
On motion by Commr. Cooper, seconded by Commr. Osborne, and on the following roll call
vote to wit:
AYES: Commrs. Peterson, Aiken, Cooper, Loh, Osborne and Boswell
NOES: None
REFRAIN: None
ABSENT: Commr. Caruso
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this 24th day of April, 2002.
Ronal 'senand, S retary
Planning Commission
10-1{1
tta nt 5
pb _
II 8�i
q J i s a
Z
Lz w
e v
> i g �f '�
�
Txi5"
e t Fa�EY - ,ji
(� of =4 < tL
8 I x—i 52 S ws
t
t j=� $¢s
H
F¢ a. _ I3
c w s
of
aye - - - -
I I
(( r
O V'
pap
I9
Nulm
\\\tea\\4ilY —. r y>r\, I .; \ ' ���� -o....� ..as•,,r,�� / � `�\=�:A
�• G /�% '4Ultrn / it II .� � :, Y=y� -,:_� I
I i / I
I II f
1 •,.`,i ', .' I : ' � r�op '\\\ .^?� / ';;�I\II\\li ii
INV,-+'�.�`'�rj..;�'I
„ 11•` / , I I Iql l l \ .li'I illl iM i
Attachment 5
DRAFT
SAN LUIS OBISPO
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
APRIL 24, 2002
CALL TO ORDERIPLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
The San Luis Obispo Planning Commission was called to order at 7:00 p.m. on
Wednesday, April 24, 2002, in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm
Street, San Luis Obispo, Califomia.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Commrs. Stephen Peterson, Jim Aiken, Allan Cooper, Orval
Osborne, Michael Boswell, and Chairwoman Alice Loh.
Absent: None.
Staff: Deputy Community Development Director Ronald Whisenand,
Associate Planner Michael Codron, Supervising Civil Engineer
Jerry Kenny, Assistant City Attorney Gil Trujillo, and
Recording Secretary Irene Pierce.
3. 3615 Broad Street. A and ER 185-99; Review of a use permit,
environmental review, and possible zone reclassification from
Conservation/Open Space (C/OS) sports field complex with possible creek
setback exceptions; City of San Luis Obispo, applicant.
Associate Planner Michael Codron presented the staff report with a
recommendation to the City Council to approve the proposed Administrative Use
Permit with creek setback exceptions and Mitigated Negative Declaration, based
on findings and subject to conditions of approval.
Pete Dunan, Chairperson of Parks and Recreation Commission, discussed the
Commission's review and approval of the plan. He explained that the Parks and
Recreation Commission supports this plan, noting this project is about sports
fields and this is the best use for this property.
Paul LeSage, Director of Parks and Recreation, explained this is a project that
represents the first new athletic fields available to the entire community in over
25-years: He stated it is a turf-based sports complex for sports such as soccer,
/949
Draft PC Minutes J ; AttaC"1(11@t]t rJ
April 24, 2002
football, rugby, lacrosse, field hockey and grass volleyball. He noted it is not for
diamond sports such as baseball and softball. He felt it would meet the
community's need for this type facility.
David Foote, Project Architect, explained that this property surfaced as the best
candidate site and as a result the City purchased it. He stated in the initial study
there are a number of things that have been incorporated into the project to
mitigate environmental issues to make this site work for the intended use. He
noted there are issues related to flooding and he presented an explanation on
some of the ways they would be dealing with the flooding, along with some of the
other issues.
Commr. Osborne asked if this project would include Prado Road.
Planner Codron replied no. He explained Prado Road has been shown on the
plans because of the alignment that is shown in the Circulation Element.
Commr. Osborne questioned if the bike highway is inside the creek setback.
Planner Codron explained there is one area where the bike path would encroach
into the creek setback, which is described in the staff report.
Commr. Boswell questioned the reason behind placing the parking lot in its
current location as opposed to placing it where Broad Street and the future Prado
Road intersection would be.
Mr. Foote explained the Public Works Department did not want any driveways off
of this road.
Planner Codron explained it is a signalized intersection that exists, which
presents a great opportunity for the parking lot access.
Commr. Boswell noted there would be significant impacts along this edge of the
project when the road project occurs, and questioned how this would be dealt
with.
Mr. Foote explained they would establish a slope bank from the grade and going
up approximately to the grade of the future Prado Road.
Commr. Boswell questioned if there would be an impact to the fields.
Mr. Foote replied no, none of the mitigation would be affected.
Commr. Boswell asked if the lights would go off at 10:00 p.m.
Mr. Foote replied yes.
Draft PC Minutes
April 24, 2002 `J - Attachment 5
Commr. Boswell asked about the monitoring plan for the nitrogen levels in the
creek.
Mr. Foote explained it is a management issue in terms of the application, the
rate, and type of nitrogen, which they felt is manageable.
Commr. Aiken asked about the potential impacts for flooding on any of the
development.
Mr. Foote explained the parking area and the structures are almost a meter
above the flood gate, which would not be inundated, but one issue would be silt
on the playing field. He explained what would be done to help this problem.
Commr. Cooper asked if the fence were more of a symbol than a barrier.
Mr. Foote replied yes.
Chairwoman Loh questioned what the viewpoint would be for rerouting Orcutt
Creek.
Mr. Foote explained that Orcutt Creek is very narrow and relatively shallow and
felt with this configuration it was not historically very old. He felt it would not be a
problem to redirect.
Commr. Boswell asked what the planned wetland mitigation currently is?
Mr. Foote explained it is the entire creek channel to the setback lines, up over the
bank of the creek and corridor, which he referred to on the map.
Commr. Boswell questioned if all the Mitigation were on site.
Mr. Foote replied yes.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Terry Connor, 215 Albert Drive, applauded the work that the City has done on
this project. He explained he identified this location to the City in 1986, and
expressed his support of the project.
Richard Creek, 206 Marlene Drive, felt this location would be perfect for this
project. He commented that it would be an athletic playing field and not a park,
and suggested they move it along as fast as they can.
Ron Regier, 1301 Aralia Court, explained that this project has a long history.
Initially, there was an effort to have a joint project of cooperative effort with Cal
�� y1�
Draft PC Minutes ) Attachment 5
April 24, 2002
Poly, which failed. He stated after looking at the site, they decided the best use -
for this site would be the sports fields, and expressed his strong support for this
project.
Bill Wilson, 1690 Southwood Drive, explained after learning they were going to
build over a 5000 year old Indian site with the revision of Prado Road, they
decided to move the road down, which impacted their fields and pushed them
into the wetlands and creeks, which is what has caused the problem. He felt
once the fields are in place people would question why the road would need to
be there.
Rick May. 1635 Knoll Drive, mentioned there is a great responsibility to ensure
children are playing in safe, lighted places, and the coaches that are with them
are the right kinds of people. He commented that the City made a great decision
in allowing the sports fields, and supports a quick move to complete the project.
Jane Godfrey, SLO, explained after observing all the people with families and all
the support she has heard for the sports in this City, she urged that the process
be expedited as quickly as possible.
Hymmo Suesetho, Prefumo Canyon, noted after living in this area for 20-years
he has had difficulty finding a soccer field and has had to travel to Paso Robles
to play because of a shortage of soccer fields. He supports the project.
Nick Muick, 3731 Orcutt Road, requested that the Planning Commission consider
direction for City Council to immediately begin implementing some funding
program that could fulfill the General Plan's Park and Recreation Element Policy
2.5.2.5.
May Coors, 397 Los Cerros, questioned the order of the agenda. She explained
the countless miles that she has driven to various practices and games, and
expressed her support for the project.
Mila Villovich LaBarre, 650 Skyline Drive, commented that the Damon-Garcia
Sports Complex is going to be a wonderful gift for this community. She
expressed her thanks to the Damon-Garcia Family and the diligence of the Parks
and Recreation Department and the Youth Sports Association for their hard work
and helping to meet this need in the community. She suggested that this
property be rezoned and separated from the Margarita area. She voiced a
concern about the road that is proposed for this project.
Jeff Wagner, 416 Patricia Drive, commented that this is the best location for this
project, and the City has needed soccer field for a long time.
Fred Bernocky 1930 Valley Vista Place, noted that engineers have studied this
location, and the archeology issues have been dealt with.. He suggested moving
ahead with this project and finishing it.
Draft PC Minutes
April 24, 2002achment �s
John Spatifor, 1303 Garden Street, noted that no one has spoken against the
fields, which is important. He felt the fields would revitalize a portion of their
community, which is in decline.
There were no further comments made from the public.
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
Commr.. Cooper moved to adopt the Planning Commission Resolution with
recommendation to the City Council to approve the proposed Administrative Use
Permit with creek setback exceptions, and Mitigated Negative Declaration, based
on findings and subjects to conditions of approval. Seconded by Commr.
Osborne.
Commr. Boswell asked if the road is shown as part of the General Plan.
Planner Codron replied yes.
Commr. Boswell asked if any action could be taken at this meeting that would
change the showing of the road in the General Plan.
Planner Codron replied no, a recommendation could only be made to the City
Council to consider it.
Commr. Boswell questioned if the road project would get a separate review when
it comes forward as part of the City's program budget.
Deputy Director Whisenand explained there is no proposal at this time to change
the General Plan Circulation Element, but the road itself would be subject to
environmental review when it is built.
Commr. Boswell questioned if the road was changed or it disappeared, could the
facilities in the fields be modified to take up the extra space?
Mr. LeSage replied no.
Commr. Boswell expressed his support of the motion and presented some brief
comments about the site flooding, the road, and expressed the importance of
decentralized facilities.
Commr. Peterson commented about the creek setback exception and suggested
some rewording of the Mitigation Measure on the Prado Road Alignment. He
requested an amendment to change Mitigation #5 to reduce impacts on cultural
resources.
//347
Draft PC Minutes Attachment 5
April 24, 2002
The amendment was not accepted.
Vice-Chair Osborne, as the seconder, explained the reference to Prado Road
should not be in the environmental document since they are not discussing
Prado Road, and should not be directing any final engineering design for Prado
Road.
AYES: Commrs. Cooper, Osborne, Peterson, Aiken, Boswell, and Loh.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commr. Caruso.
ABSTAIN: None.
The motion carried 6-0.
Attachment 6
city Of SM JUTS OBISW Depairlmentof CoTment
Planning Division
May 8, 2002
TO: File ARC 185-99: 3615 Broad Street
Paul LeSage, Director of Parks and Recreation
FROM: Ronald Whisenand, Deputy Community Development Director
By: Pam Ricci, Acting Deputy Director PK
SUBJECT: Review of the Damon Garcia sports fields plan
The Architectural Review Commission, at its meeting of May 6, 2002, granted final
approval to the design of the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields, based on the following
findings and subject to the following conditions
Findings
1. The proposed project is consistent with the Parks and Recreation Element of the
General Plan, and is a significant step towards implementing Policy 2.52.1, which
says that there will be sufficient athletic fields within the City to meet practice,
competition and informal demands.
2. The plan shows improvements that are architecturally compatible with the site and
with development in the vicinity.
3. The proposed lighting system has been designed to eliminate impacts from glare
and spill light to surrounding development.
4. The proposed creek setback exceptions are consistent with the intent of the Creek
Setback Ordinance and the Planning Commission has made adequate findings to
approve the requested exceptions.
5. The proposed parking lot design is appropriate because the limited area for parking
on the site, because of the large landscaping planters at the perimeter of the lot
that will insure screening of the lot, and because diamond planters are provided
every three to four parking spaces resulting in more trees in the lot than if
peninsular planters were provided per the City's standard.
6. The environmental document adequately evaluates the project related impacts and
where potentially significant impacts are identified, mitigation measures are
required to reduce these impacts to less than significant levels.
/�-y5
Attachment 6
R
ARC 185-99
Page 2
Conditions
1. The working landscape plans for the Acacia Creek restoration and the Orcutt Creek
realignment and restoration shall be reviewed by the Community Development
Director and the Natural Resources Manager prior to Grading Permit issuance for
creek work.
2. The storage and maintenance enclosure shall be screened with dark colored vinyl
slats or a dark green mesh, to the approval of the Community Development
Director.
3. Modify the grading plan to undulate the slope bank at Broad Street with contour
grading and cluster planting.
4. The sidewalk on Broad Street shall be detached with a sufficient parkway to
accommodate large canopy street trees.
5. Several benches with angled backs shall be provided with initial project
development at the restroom, plaza and facing the fields.
6. The property line fence at Broad Street shall be wire mesh with wood posts and a
wood cap.
The ARC also forwarded a recommendation to the City Council to consider reducing
the amount of reinforced pathway necessary to accommodate emergency response
vehicles. The ARC suggested limiting the emergency response loop to the pathway
around Acacia Creek and to the portion of the path between the Orcutt Creek Bridge
and the Acacia Creek Bridge.
The decision of the Commission is final unless appealed to the City Council within 10
days of the action.
If you have any questions, please contact Michael Codron at 781-7175.
cc: County of SLO Assessor's Office
//9 -5-0
Draft ARC Minutes Attachment 6
May 6, 2002
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Scott Lathrop, 1619 La Vineda, supported the project. He expressed concern
about being on the south side and the drainage issue and questioned where that
water would go..
Chairperson Stevenson referred to the map and asked Mr. Lathrop if the culvert
on the map is undersized.
Mr. Lathrop replied yes, it acts like a dam after a 25-year storm.
Jeff Wagner, 416 Patricia Drive, expressed his support and asked that the project
be handled in a very expeditious fashion because these fields are greatly
needed.
Rich Creek, 206 Marlene Drive, expressed the huge demand for fields. He felt
that even with the addition of these fields, the demand will not be met. He stated
there was great support for these fields at the Planning Commission meeting.
Fred Bumockelm, SLO, explained that the area started out as a multi-use facility
and evolved into a dedicated facility for turf sports. He commented on the time
frame and explained this is not just a youth sports field, it is a turf sports field,
which adults would also use.
There were no further comments made by the public.
COMMISSION COMMENTS:
Chairperson Stevenson noted this project will require curb, gutter and sidewalk
on Broad Street and this Commission is concerned about providing an adequate
pedestrian buffer for a parkway. He asked what the detail for this would be.
Mr. Foote explained the Public Works Department has created the detail with
some options. H noted there is a future curb line and a sidewalk that is
separated with the Parkway. He explained that it would be in the Margarita Area
Plan.
Chairperson Stevenson questioned if they had an estimate on when this would
happen?
Mr. Foote replied he has not been told when it would happen.
Chairperson Stevenson expressed concern with the wire fence and suggested
there be more landscaping to achieve the height, which would also be nice to
look at. He suggested some soft a.nnulation contour grading along the bank on
Hwy. 227 to help break the long linear line along the site. He expressed concern
/9-Y/
Draft ARC Minutes Attach
May 6, 2002 - ment
on the vehicular lights and the interference with field activity because of the
grade change.
Mr. Foote explained that vehicular lights should not be a problem with all the
landscaping.
Comms. Howard felt this is a wonderful project which shows care, thought, and
listening, and is in full support of it.
Commr. Schultz expressed a concern that there is only one entrance to the
parking lot with the number of cars that would be going in and out.
Commr. Lopes asked what the light poles would look like.
Mr. Foote replied they would look like any other field pole lights.
Commr. Lopes questioned if there is a proposal for a light pole.
Mr. Foote explained the light poles would be 11 to 15 lamps, pointed in different
angles.
Chairperson Stevenson asked for an explanation on the downhill drainage and
how it would be mitigated, and the possible resizing and replacement of the
culvert under the ranch road.
Mr. Foote explained when they irrigate during a minor storm, those pipes are
going to exit into the creeks so the normal storm water coming out of the
surfaces would go into the creek channel. He explained in a 25-year storm, the
culvert acts as a restricting point . They did a flood plain study and it was
determined from the Public Works Department to exit the water the same depth,
width, and velocity that it is right now.
Commr. Lopes moved to grant final approval to the design for the Damon-Garcia
Sports Complex, based on the findings and subject to the conditions of approval
in the staff report, and to suggest a condition (3) to modify a grading plan to
undulate the bank adjacent to Broad Street with contour grading and a cluster of
Planting periodically along the slope: add a condition (4) that the sidewalk of
Broad Street shall be separated from the future curb by the parkway with
sufficient width to accommodate large canopy street trees; add a condition (5)
that several benches with angled backs shall be provided with additional project
development at the restroom plaza and facing the fields; and a condition (6) that
Property line fence shall be a wire mesh with a wood post and a wood cap.
Seconded by Commr. Schultz.
Commr. Lopes mentioned the possibility of a playground being included.
Draft ARC Minutes r AttaChment E'i
May 6,2002
Mr. LeSage explained if there were an area that is flat, they would need it for the
fields.
Commr. Schultz expressed a concern about the parking lot planters and the
different standards that they hold other developers up to and suggested adding a
row of trees along Industrial Way.
Chairperson Stevenson recommended that a row of trees be located as close.to
the road as possible to serve as a canopy.
Commr. Boudreau suggested the reduction of the quantity of all weather surfaces
by as much as possible.
AYES: Commr. Lopes, Schultz, Howard, Lopes, and Chairperson
Stevenson.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Commr. Root and Rawson.
ABSTAIN: None.
The motion carried 5-0.
Commr. Lopes moved to recommend to the City Council that they consider a
reduction in the reinforced pathway to a reasonably sized loop. Seconded by
Commr. Schultz.
AYES: Commr. Lopes, Schultz, Howard, Boudreau, and Chairperson
Stevenson.
NOES: None..
ABSENT: Commr. Rawson and Root.
ABSTAIN: None.
The motion carried 5-0.
Commr. Lopes moved to recommend that a play area be developed with the
pathway savings that would be equivalent to the. Meadow Park play area.
Seconded by Commr..Schultz
AYES: Commrs. Lopes and Schultz.
NOES: Commrs. Boudreau, Howard, and Chairperson Stevenson.
ABSENT: Commr. Root and Rawson.
ABSTAIN: None.
The motion failed 3-2.
City of San Luis Obispo Attachment 7
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo CA 93401 Community Development Department 805-781-7175
Initial Study of Environmental Impact
I. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION FORM
1a. File No.:
A/ARC/ER 185-99
1b. Project Title:
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields
2. Lead Agency Name and Address:
City of San Luis Obispo
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo CA 93401
3. Contact Person and Phone.Number:
David Foote, Go Hrma, (805)781-9800
or
Michael Codron, Community Development Department(805) 781-7175
4. Project Location:
Broad Street(State Route 227)at Industrial Way(see Vicinity Map/Exhibit 1)
5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address:
City of San Luis Obispo
Parks and Recreation Dept.
Paul LeSage, Director
1341 Nipomo Street
San Luis Obispo CA 93401
6. General Plan Designation:
The project site was recently annexed into the City (the Local Agency Formation Commission certificate of
compliance was recorded on November 9,2000)with a Parks and Recreation land use designation.
7. Zoning:
Conservation/Open Space(C/OS-25)
8. Description of the Project:
The proposed project site is comprised of about 23 acres. An 84-foot wide right-of-way for the future Prado
Road extension is included in this acreage and occurs along the west/north boundary of the site. The balance
of the site is proposed for sports fields and ancillary park features such as parking, restrooms, etc., and creek
conservation/enhancement areas.Access to the site will be from the Industrial Way/Broad Street intersection..
The proposed plan (Exhibits 2 and 3) includes four tournament size soccer fields as the primary use. The turf
areas can also be striped to accommodate football and rugby as well as up to eight or nine-smaller soccer fields
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
1
City of San Luis Obispo Attachment 7
990 Palm Street _
San Luis Obispo CA 93401 Community Development Department 805-781-7175
for the fall youth soccer season. The fields are planned to be used year-round and in the evenings. Night field
lighting is proposed. (Exhibit 4—Lighting Schematic).
Ancillary park features include parking for about 150 cars,a restroom, concession and maintenance buildings of
750 square feet, 400 square feet, and 440 square feet respectively, concrete pedestrian paths up to 12 feet
Wide for emergency and maintenance vehicle access, two pedestrian bridges and screen / windbreak tree
planting. Parking for peak use times will ultimately be provided with a combination of on-site parking and off-site
parking. The 150 on-site parking spaces will be supplemented by off-site parking on adjoining land to the south
(about 200 cars)under a proposed agreement with the owner of that property.
The proposed project will include the rough earthwork to establish grades for Prado Road, a planned arterial
street, but does not include construction of Prado Road (see below) or the bridge over Acacia Creek. Prado
Road will ultimately include Class 2 and separated bike/pedestrian paths with an interchange/underpass for
this separated path providing direct access to the project as well as the planned school and park west of Prado
Road. The project includes a north/south recreational bike path which will pass under the Prado Road Bridge
over Acacia Creek.The Prado Road bridge is planned as a free-span that will not encroach on the creek and will
allow a broad,relatively tall opening for wildlife movement(see Exhibits 13-14).
The project includes enhancement of Acacia Creek by creating a 2.5 acre conservation/wildlife corridor on both
sides of the creek (see Exhibits 8 and 9—Creek Enhancement). The project will result in the loss of about one
acre of jurisdictional wetland which will be replaced by rerouting Orcutt Creek and creating an enhanced wetland
corridor and riparian area (see Exhibit 10—Wetland Replacement). The project maintains an average top of
creek bank setback for fields and walks of approximately 35 feet for Acacia Creek. For the re-created Orcutt
Creek Channel,the setback from the normal-water flow, incised channel is an average of approximately 25 feet,
with areas up to 35 feet. The proposed project is consistent with and implements the Mitigation Monitoring
Program for the Prado Road Extension Circulation Element Amendment adopted February 2000.
The proposed project includes the following features to mitigate impacts identified during the design process:
• restoration and enhancement of degraded creek habitat and unstable banks
• siting of structures and parking to protect from flood hazard (see Exhibits 8-10)
• grading design that does not increase flood stage storm water levels off-site(see Exhibits 14, 16-17)
• design of sports field lighting to minimize off-site light spillage(see Exhibit 4)
• application of low-reflectivity paint to the field light poles and back sides of the lamp reflector housings
• use of reclaimed water for irrigation
• prohibition on the use of loudspeaker public address systems
• park closure and field lights off at 10:00 P.M.to allow wildlife movement
• Prado Road alignment to avoid cultural resources to the maximum feasible degree
• design of Prado Road and pedestrian underpass to provide safe access to and from the future land uses to
the west and prevent at-grade pedestrian crossings of Prado Road (see Exhibits 11, 12-13)
• incorporation of receptacles for recyclable materials on the site
• inclusion of bike racks(1/10 parking spaces), preferential carpool parking, and shade trees in the parking lot
to reduce direct and indirect air quality impacts
9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting:
The site is gently sloping land,with Acacia Creek and Orcutt Creek flowing from north to south.There is a gravel
road and small bridge providing access to the cluster of older houses to the west, which are outside the
proposed project site. There are no buildings on the site. There are two or three small trees near the bridge.
Small plants indicative of wetlands and some native grasses have been found on parts of this property.The site
has been used for cattle grazing. To the north are serpentine-rock hills used for grazing, and proposed to
become an open space preserve. There are also a house and small orchard near Broad Street. To the west is
gently sloping grazing, which is proposed to become an elementary school and a neighborhood park, and the
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
2
l6 Ste,
Attachment 7
City of San Luis Obispo
990 Palm Street _
San Luis Obispo CA 93401 Community Development Department 805-781-7175
remains of a gravel quarry. To the southeast is open land and a house converted to an office, proposed to
become a commercial center. To the east, across Highway 227, is a utility company yard and a self-storage
development.
10. Project Entitlements Requested:
• Administrative Use Permit for establishing a park in the Conservation/Open Space (C/OS)
Zone
• Architectural Review
11. Other Public Agencies Whose Approval is Required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation
agreement):
• Army Corps of Engineers—Section 404 permit
• Regional Water Quality Control Board—Section 401 waiver
• California Department of Fish and Game—Stream Alteration Agreement
• San Luis Obispo County Airport Land Use Commission-(not required, but requests review of sports lighting,
noting that state law does not mandate the Commission's review of projects found compatible with the
Airport Land Use Plan)
• Caltrans District 5—encroachment permit for Industrial Way/State Route 227 intersection improvements
12. Environmental Factors Potentially Affected:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact
that is a Potentially Significant Impact as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
® Aesthetics ElAgriculture Resources ® Air Quality
® Biological Resources ® Cultural Resources ❑ Land Use/Planning
❑ Hazards&Hazardous ® Hydrology/Water Quality ❑ Population/Housing
Materials
❑ Mineral Resources ❑ Noise ® Transportation/Traffic
❑ Public Services ❑ Recreation
❑ Utilities/Service Systems ❑ Mandatory Findings of
Significance
❑ There is no evidence before the Department that the project will have any potential adverse effects on fish and
wildlife resources or the habitat upon which the wildlife depends. As such, the project qualifies for a de minimis
waiver with regards to the filing of Fish and Game Fees.
® The project has potential to impact fish and wildlife resources and shall be subject to the payment of Fish and
Game fees pursuant to Section 711.4 of the California Fish and Game Code.
12. Determination: (To be completed by the Lead Agency)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
❑ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE
DECLARATION will be prepared.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
3
City of San Luis Obispo Attachment 7
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo CA 93401 Community Development Department 805-781-7175
® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a
significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project
applicant in the form of a MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION.
❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT is required.
❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a potentially significant impact or potentially significant unless mitigated
impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document
pursuant to applicable legal standards, and has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier
analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must
analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
❑ I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all
potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION
pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or
NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed
project, nothing further is required.
_5—l2 3/DZ
ignatur Date
Printed Name For
Revision:
This document was originally approved by the Community Development Director on June 1,2001, and was revised based on
the direction of the Planning Commission (PC Resolution#5334-02, approved on April 24, 2002). Mitigation Measures were
deleted from the Cultural Resources section of this Initial Study and a new conclusion is provided to explain the change(see
Section 5, beginning on page 12). The change addresses the fact that Prado Road will not be constructed as part of the
Sports Fields project. The recommendations of the project archeologist have been incorporated into the preliminary design
for the road, but cannot be implemented as part of this project since the road will not be built until some future date, after the
adoption of the Margarita Area Specific Plan.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
4
la-s�
Attachment 7
II. ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIS.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
1. AESTHETICS. Would the project: Incorporated
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a
scenic vista? 1,3 X
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within
a state scenic highway? 1,3 X
c) Substantially degrade the existing visual
character or quality of the site and its
surroundings? 1,3 X
d) Create a new source of substantial light or
glare which would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area? 8 X
Impact Discussion:
1a-c. The proposed project will not substantially alter the open space character of the property.Views to the South Hills north of
the site from surrounding residential and commercial areas will not be significantly blocked by proposed tree plantings.
Views to the south hills from Route 227 would be screened by proposed trees along the highway frontage, however, this
visual interruption is of short duration along the travel path and not significant. The creeks will be enhanced with native
plantings to recreate the riparian canopy typical of creeks and drainages flowing from the Santa Lucia range.There are no
historic structures on the site.
1d. The proposed project will have parking lot and path lighting.These types of conventional lighting will have shielded, cut-off
fixtures and will be 20 feet or less in height.As such,these lights would not create significant light or glare,impacts.
The proposed field lighting would be a series of eleven poles on the area east of Acacia Creek 70 to 80 feet tall and four
poles around the field west of Acacia Creek at 80 feet tall.The luminaires would be 1500 watt fixtures in banks of 12 to 15
lights per pole.The level of illumination is designed to be suitable for recreational sports(30 foot-candles)with a moderate
level of light uniformity for safety. A technical report was prepared by Thoma Engineering that analyzed three lighting
configurations.The selected option (#3) achieves the best degree of control of light spillage off-site and avoids excessive
pole heights, while maintaining the field illumination needed for safe play (refer to Technical Reports Volume available at
the Community Development Department). This is achieved by foregoing full flexibility in field configurations, that is,
locating poles at the perimeter of the tournament fields rather than the overall turf edge. The goal is to situate pole
locations so that lights can be angled downward as much as possible while keeping pole heights at no more than 80 feet.
The electrical engineer concludes that the proposed design would provide illumination superior to any existing multi-use
fields in the city, while not exceeding the same level of off-site light spillage present at other fields in the city. By way of
comparison,the light pole heights,footcandle levels(FC) on and off site,and uniformity level across the field, i.e.,amount
of variation (in essence the five variables in lighting design that can be manipulated) for five other fields in the City are,
presented below:
Mission Field(much smaller field)
Light levels are 50 foot candles infield;30 foot candles outfield(baseball)
Football field-30 foot candles average maintained
Uniformity-1.5 infield; 2.0 outfield
Maximum off site-l0 foot candles at property line at north
70-80 foot poles
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
5
�� •SO
i w
Attachment 7
Sinsheimer
Lighting levels are approximately 15-25 foot candles infield; 10-15 foot candles outfield
Uniformity-2.0 infield;3.5 outfield
60-70 foot poles
Santa Rosa Softball Field
Lighting levels are approximately 20 foot candles infield; 30 foot candles outfield
Uniformity-3 or 4 very non-uniform
Maximum offsite—@ 60 from field (edge of parking lot right field)4.5 FC
50-60-foot poles
San Luis High School Football Field
Light levels are 50 foot candles average maintained
Uniformity-2.0
Maximum off site—@ 150 feet from field 2.3 foot candle s
80 foot poles
Cal Poly Football
Light levels-50 foot candles average maintained
Uniformity-2.0
Maximum off site—@ 150 feet from field 3.5 FC
(Source:Thoma Engineering—approximate/estimated values)
The City ordinance regulates the amount of light that can spill onto surrounding land uses. Section 17.18.030 of the City's
Municipal Code states,"No lighting or illuminated device shall be operated so as to create glare which creates a hazard or
nuisance on other property'. Light spill (or glare) can be both the effect of spill and the effect of viewing the light fixture
itself. Generally, both can be controlled by directing light down and shielding the fixture. In the case of sports lighting,the
ability to do both is limited.
The effect of the proposed field lights were analyzed by creating a computer simulation of the poles with accurate light
intensities. Modeling software allows the light poles and illumination values to be dropped into a three dimension terrain
model of the city. Four viewpoints were selected that are elevated somewhat above the site, and which would see the
lights more than areas closer and more at the same elevation as the fields. These locations are Bishop Street at Terrace
Hill, Laurel Lane at Southwood, Tank Farm Road east of the railroad and Spanish Oaks Drive on Islay Hill. It was
determined that areas near Tank Farm and Poinsettia, Bullock Lane, Orcutt Road and the areas west of the site would not
see the lights to a significant degree. While the lights may be seen from these other areas, the viewshed is such that the
lights are partially blocked by intervening structures (Marigold Center for example) or the lights are not a substantial
feature in the viewshed. The requirement to limit the time of operation (not past 10:00 P.M.) is part of the project
description.
The four modeled viewpoints indicate that while the lights will be visible, the level of impact is not substantial and will not
create a hazard or nuisance on other property. The Illumination Engineering Society has published a Statement on
Astronomical Light Pollution and Light Trespass which indicates that most jurisdictions seek to control off-site light spillage
(level of light beyond the property boundary where the light source is located) and not the visibility of the fixture itself. An
exception is the California Motor Vehicle Code which limits the luminance of sources visible to drivers. For sports field
lighting with 80 foot poles,the electrical engineer determined that 1.50 foot candles at the right-of-way on Broad.Street is
an acceptable threshold. The proposed design is estimated at 0.79 to 1.32 foot candles at the right-of-way line. At this
level the effect on motorists is less than significant. (As a note,the calculation of light spill into the creek and Broad Street
does not take into account the mitigating effect of proposed tree planting along the creek and the Broad Street frontage
which, in time, could be substantial.)Although the fixtures will be visible, the lights would not create a nuisance or hazard
based on their location and fixture characteristics.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
6
//S-5 y
Attachment 7
�0
In conclusion, neither off-site light spill or thevisibility of the light fixtures themselves appear to be significant effects
based on the characteristics of the proposed lighting design (Option #3 in the Technical Report document) which has
been designed with the goal of mitigating potential light and glare impacts.
Mitigation: To minimize the effect of sports field lighting, the design shall employ no more than eleven poles east of
Acacia Creek and four poles west of Acacia Creek with a maximum of 80-foot poles. The level of of-site spill at the Route
227 right-of-way shall not exceed 1.50 foot candles.The level of spill west of Acacia Creek shall not exceed an average of
1.9 foot candles. Park policy shall be that lights are off at 10:00 P.M.
2. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. In Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
determining whether impacts to Significant Significant Significant Impact
agricultural resources are significant Impact With Impact
environmental effects, lead agencies may Mitigation
refer to the California Agricultural Land Incorporated
Evaluation and Site Assessment Model
(1997) prepared by the California Dept. of
Conservation as an optional model to use
in assessing impacts on agriculture and
farmland.Would the project:
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique
Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide
Importance (Farmland), as shown on the
maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland
Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-
agricultural use? 1, 12 X
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural
use,ora Williamson Act contract? 1 X
c) Involve other changes in the existing
environment which, due to their location or
nature, could result in conversion of
Farmland,to non-agricultural use? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
2a-c. The site has historically been used for grazing. The soils are predominately Cropley Clay which is generally a Class II soil
for crop productivity (prime soils) if irrigated and Class III if not irrigated. In this case the slope and proximity to the
floodplain creates poorly drained conditions that limit crop production seasonally.
The issues of conversion of land used for grazing to urban uses was addressed in the 1994 General Plan Land Use
Element (LUE) EIR. Normally the conversion of agricultural land is a significant impact. The certification of the City's LUE
EIR included a statement of overriding considerations for conversion of this prime agricultural land to urban uses (Res.
#8332).
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
7
/,6-6c)
Attachment T
3. AIR QUALITY. Where availabic," the Sources Potentially Le.._ (han Less Than No
significance criteria established by the Significant Significant Significant Impact
applicable air quality management or air Impact With Impact
pollution control district may be relied Mitigation
upon to make the following Incorporated
determinations.Would the project:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of
the applicable air quality plan? 4 X
b) Violate any air quality standard or
contribute substantially to an existing or
projected air quality violation? 4,7 X
c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net
increase of any criteria pollutant for which
the project region is non-attainment under
an applicable federal or state ambient air
quality standard (including releasing
emissions which exceed quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors)? 4,7 X
d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations? 4 X
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a
substantial number of people? 4 1 X
Impact Discussion:
3a-c. The 1994 General Plan EIR addressed cumulative air quality effects which included this site. The urbanization of this site
(conversion from open space to park) was considered in the General Plan EIR.. No significant effects, violations, or
obstructions to implementation of the Clean Air Plan were identified.
The fields proposed only meet existing demand. Currently, soccer games occur at a variety of fields throughout the City.
Once the fields are built, instead of some families driving to two or more field locations on a single Saturday for AYSO
soccer games (depending on the age group of the children), the proposed project will allow all games to be played at one
location. The proposed project is located on an easily accessible arterial that is in close proximity to both existing and
planned residential areas, as well as employment areas.
Potential vehicular emissions may be somewhat offset by the provision of regional recreational and commuter bike path
links within the project and along Prado Road.
Although the Air Pollution Control District (APCD) screening criteria for project air quality impacts does not include sports
fields, based on parking the proposed project appears comparable to a 400 student school or 150 employee office park,
both of which fall under to 10 lbs/day emission threshold.This, combined with the project characteristics described above,
indicate that no significant operational air quality impacts would result from the project and no mitigation is required.
Based on APCD construction activity screening criteria, the project will exceed the threshold for PM10 (airborne particles/
dust). Implementation of standard dust control mitigation for PM10 will reduce potential short-term impacts to less than
significant levels.
Mitigation: The following mitigation measures are required to reduce short-term (construction)air quality impacts. Proper
implementation of these measures shall be assumed to achieve a 50% reduction in fugitive dust emissions. The use of
soil binders on completed cut-and-fill areas has the potential to reduce fugitive dust emissions by 80%:
a. Reduce the amount of the disturbed area where possible.
b. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dust from leaving the site.
Increased watering frequency would be required whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph. Reclaimed (nonpotable)
water should be used whenever possible.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
8
/B'6
Attachment 7
c. All dirt stock-pile areas should be sprayed daily as needed.
d. Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved project revegetation and landscape plans should be
implemented as soon as possible following completion of any soil disturbing activities.
e. Exposed ground areas that are planned to be reworked at dates greater than one month after initial grading should be
sown with a fast-germinating native grass seed and watered until vegetation is established.
f. All disturbed soil areas not subject to revegetation should be stabilized using approved chemical soil binders, jute
netting,or other methods approved in advance by the APCD.
g. All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc., to be paved should be completed as soon as possible. In addition, building
pads should be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used.
h. Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph on any unpaved surface at the construction site.
i. All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to be covered or should maintain at least two feet of
freeboard (minimum vertical distance between top of load and top of trailer) in accordance with CVC Section 23114.
This measure has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by 7-14%.
j. Install wheel washers where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto streets, or wash off trucks and equipment
leaving the site.This measure has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by 40-70%.
k. Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent paved roads.Water sweepers with
reclaimed water should be used where feasible. This measure has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by 25-
60%.
I. All PM10 mitigation measures required should be shown on grading and building plans. In addition, the contractor or
builder should designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased watering, as
necessary,to prevent transport of dust offsite.Their duties shall include holidays and weekend periods when work may
not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to the APCD prior to issuance
of a grading permit.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the Mitigation
project: Incorporated
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either
directly or through habitat modifications,
on any species identified as a candidate,
sensitive, or special status species in local
or regional plans, policies, or regulations,
or by the California Department of Fish
and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service? 6 X
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any
riparian habitat or other sensitive natural
community identified in local or regional
plans, policies, regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and Game
or US Fish and Wildlife Service? 6 X
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on
federally protected wetlands as defined by
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(including, but not limited to, marsh,vernal
pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal,
filling, hydrological interruption, or other
means? 6 X
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23, 2001
9 p
�/� 'tO Z•
Aftachment 7 .
d) Interfere substantially with the movement
of any native resident or migratory fish or
wildlife species or with established native
resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or
impede the use of native wildlife nursery
sites? 6 X
e) Conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological
resources, such as a tree preservation
policy or ordinance? 6,3 X
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural
Community Conservation Plan, or other
approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan? 1,6,3 X
Impact Discussion:
4a. Serpentine Bunchgrass Grassland Habitat
A small amount (0.33) acre) of serpentine bunchgrass grassland habitat occurs in the northern portion of the project site
within the Prado Road right-0f--way. An extensive occurrence of this habitat type occurs further upslope at higher
elevations on the South Hills outside the project area. The Palmer's spineflower, and San Luis Obispo dudleya were
observed on site with a greater abundance and density further upslope outside of the project area. Although a small and
somewhat degraded amount of this habitat type occurs onsite, avoidance of impacts to this community and any special-
status plant species that occur in this habitat type is recommended. Cultural Resource mitigation required shifting the road
substantially out of this plant community. However, if minor impacts are unavoidable, then the following mitigation
measures are necessary to comply with City of San Luis Obispo policy for construction of Prado Road. The field study
referenced above and the mitigation measures below are consistent with the adopted Mitigation Monitoring Plan for the
Prado Road Circulation Element Amendment.
Mitigation Measures:
• Salvage, propagate, and reintroduce the species in appropriate habitat onsite via replanting/seeding efforts. Plants
may be transplanted upslope by qualified personnel and shall be monitored for recovery and survival.
4b-c. Riparian and Wetland Areas
The wetlands and waters identified in the Wetland Delineation for the site are subject to regulation by the Corps pursuant
to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Activities affecting these areas would also be regulated by the California
Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) under Section 1601-1603 of the Fish and Game Code. Modifications of Acacia
Creek within the Corps jurisdiction, along with the realignment of Orcutt Creek and filling of the seasonal wetlands would
require a permit or authorization from the Corps. Based on the wetland delineation,direct impacts on waters and wetlands
could be as much as 1.01 acres for implementation of the proposed project.
Filling or other modifications of the on-site wetlands and waters of the U.S. would require a permit from the Corps, a
Section 401 Water Quality Certifications (or waiver thereof) from the State Regional Water Quality Control Board, and a
Streambed Alteration Agreement from the DFG. Riparian and wetland habitats are of special concern to the resource
agencies due to the extensive loss of this habitat in California and nationwide. As a condition of permits and approvals,
mitigation would likely be required to replace the affected wetland area to achieve the goal of no net loss of wetland acres,
functions, and values required by the Army Corps. Mitigation for the loss of wetland impacts will likely require a minimum
of a 1:1 ratio of created waters/wetland habitats to those impacted.
In addition, city policy requires a specified setback for development of 35 feet from the top of creek bank. This setback is
generally met or exceeded in the proposed design. In locations where less than 35 feet setback is proposed, the effect of
overall, riparian canopy creation is determined to greatly offset these minor potential encroachments. Approval of a creek
setback exception will be necessary.
The following wetland mitigation measures will meet the no-net loss goal and to reduce this impact to a less-than
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
10
i
Attachment 7
significant level, and are consistent with the Prado Road Circulation Element Amendment Mitigation Measures.
Mitigation Measures:
As part of a comprehensive creek enhancement plan for the project:
• The realigned section of Orcutt Creek should be created to meander and be sized so that a meandering low-flow
channel can be established over time.
• Design created seasonal wetland habitat adjacent to both sides of the realigned Orcutt Creek with a curved and
rounded border.
• Salvage impacted wetland plant material and top six inches of soil for use as inoculum in the created wetland habitat.
• Enhance Acacia Creek with woody riparian tree and shrub plantings including laying back areas of unstable vertical
banks above the jurisdictional limit. Removal of grazing should also be beneficial in helping to restore the riparian
cover.
• Flood control improvements on Acacia Creek should maximize the use of biotechnical methods and minimize the
amount of rock.
• Create a habitat connection between the two creeks on the.southern property boundary. Native trees, shrubs, and
herbs should be installed to create vegetated cover for wildlife movement between the two creeks and to discourage
human access.
• Acacia and Orcutt creeks should be fenced (split rail) with an average 35-foot buffer zone to discourage access by
people. Educational signage should be positioned along the fence line informing the public of the sensitivity of the
habitat and to encourage stewardship by not entering the fenced area.
• Any fueling, cleaning, or servicing of construction equipment, storage of fuel or chemicals, or disposal of construction
materials will occur well away from waterways, in locations where spills can be contained before entering a waterway.
• Any additional or more restrictive requirements set by the California Department of Fish and Game or the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers will control over these recommended measures.
4d. The project site has a low value for wildlife movement in its present state, primarily due to the degraded condition of the
creeks. The proposed project design includes features to increase the potential for wildlife.movement in the region by
creating dense vegetated cover in the creeks, vegetative cover linking the two creeks, and by maintaining a wide and
relatively high(8 feet) underpass for Acacia Creek at proposed Prado Road.
Wildlife Species
The southwestern pond turtle was observed in both Acacia and Orcutt creeks. The proposed introduction of riparian
vegetation to Acacia Creek, creation of a vegetated movement corridor between the two creeks, and a realigned Orcutt
Creek with adjacent seasonal wetlands would be a habitat enhancement for the pond turtle. The realignment of Orcutt
Creek would result in temporary impacts to pond turtle habitat but would be self-mitigating through the on-site restoration
effort.The following measures would further reduce the potential impacts on the pond turtle.
Mitigation Measures:
• Construct the new Orcutt Creek channel prior to filling the existing channel.
• Water should be diverted into the new Orcutt Creek channel for at least one week before filling and grading the old
channel. This will allow for passive migration of turtles into the new channel. Prior to filling or grading activities in the
old channel, a qualified biologist should survey the old channel for stranded turtles and relocate them to the new
channel.
• To minimize pond turtles from straying into the construction areas, silt fencing should be installed and maintained in
working condition at the location of the riparian setback along both Acacia and Orcutt creeks during all construction
phases.
• In order to minimize potential disturbance of pond turtle nest sites, all improvements to Acacia Creek should be
conducted as late in the dry season as is feasible. A qualified biologist should be on the site during all earthmoving
work on Acacia Creek to rescue and relocate any stranded pond turtles. Arrangements for captive rearing of yearling
turtles for one year and then release the following spring should be included as mitigation in the event a nest is
disturbed.
• The two creeks and wetlands should be fenced with educational signs on the sensitivity of the habitat areas to prevent
intrusion by people. Mention of presence of the pond turtle should not be made on the educational signs so as to not
promote collection for pets.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
11
i
�• Attachment 7
• An educational brochure or other materials shall be provided to each of the city workers who will be responsible for
park maintenance that provides information regarding the correct procedures for protecting the turtles.
• The City Biologist shall be designated the contact person for monitoring turtle sightings. The name and telephone
number of the City Biologist should be included in the educational information. The contact person shall maintain
records of turtle sightings, including the specific location and circumstances of the sightings and explanation of what, if
any, action was taken.Turtle harassment must be reported to the California Department of Fish and Game.
Wildlife Corridor
The site currently has limited value as a wildlife corridor primarily because the site is devoid of dense vegetative cover.
There is potential for the site to act as a meaningful wildlife corridor linking the South Hills Open Space to the open areas
south of the airport via Acacia Creek, a tributary of San Luis Obispo Creek. The proposed project will substantially
enhance the riparian vegetation along Acacia and (realigned) Orcutt creeks. The proposed Prado Road bridge will span
about 70 feet which is wide enough to provide a meaningful wildlife corridor link.The creek setbacks and dense tree cover
proposed will encourage wildlife movement. The fact that the park is closed after 10:00 P.M.will ensure nocturnal animals.
are not discouraged from using the area.
The proposed sports lighting design will achieve a reasonably low to moderate light level (3.5 FC) at the creek by pulling
the lights in close to the tournament field footprints and keeping the fixture angle as downward as possible using 80-foot
poles. Because of these factors and the proposed 10:P.M. limit on lighting use at the facility,this effect is not significant.
4e. See 4c regarding creek bank setbacks.
4f. The proposed project is consistent with the draft Margarita Area Specific Plan policies related to biological resources
(average 30 meters for Acacia Creek Corridor).
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
5. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the Incorporated
project:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of a historical resource as
defined in§15064.5? 5 X
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in
the significance of an archaeological
resource pursuant to§15064.5? 5 X
c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature? 5 X
d) Disturb any human remains, including
those interred outside of formal
cemeteries? 5 X
Impact Discussion:
5a. No historical features are present on the site.
5b. Surface surveys of the project area revealed a single prehistoric archaeological site, CA-SLO-1427, located on an
outcropping ridge of serpentinite.The physical dimensions, material contents, geologic and cultural features,and site soils
were investigated to determine the cultural and scientific importance of the resource. Surface artifacts were mapped and
collected, nine cultural features were identified and plotted, and 15 subsurface soil samples were processed. Cultural
features include five.bedrock outcrops and two isolated boulders containing 15 differentially weathered manufactured
depressions, one probable house ring, and an unusual ocular boulder. A sample of 84 stone tools and artifacts was
recovered from the surface and from 15 excavated test holes, but no marine shell or animal bone was found (recent
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
12
Attachment 7
historic shells and bones do occur elsewhere on the property). Data provided by-tne artifact assemblage, the three types
of differentially weathered rock features, and the probable house ring together suggest repeated short duration
occupations by small residential groups, probably nuclear families, from ca.4500 BC to ca. 1000 AD. Occupants activities
may have focused on acquisition and processing of resources from the nearby marshland, probably from early spring until
late fall. Deposits of anthropic soil are present although material frequencies appear to be low. The site has an unusual
grouping of features and meets CEQA criteria for qualification as an important cultural resource. Construction of the
sports complex is not likely to affect any archaeological resources, however, construction of the Prado Road extension
could adversely affect site CA-SLO-1427.An adjustment of the Prado Road extension is recommended to reduce impacts
to an acceptable level. Realignment of the roadway, coupled with site stabilization, data recovery, and excavation
monitoring, would adequately mitigate projected impacts to cultural and archaeological resources to less than significant
levels, and is consistent with the adopted Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Prado Road Extension Circulation
Element Amendment.
5c-d. There is no evidence and little likelihood that human remains or paleontological resources are present on the site
due to the nature of the exposed bedrock near SLO-1427.
Conclusion:
The conceptual alignment shown on the revised project site plan, prepared by Canon Associates and dated 03/04/02, shows the
adjusted configuration for Prado Road recommended by the project archeologist, which reduces the potential impact to the CA-
SLO-1427 site to 15% of the total site. The plan also insures that no grading or stockpiling will occur in the vicinity of the site, per
the requirements of the Army Corps of Engineers permit for the project. No further mitigation is necessary because Prado Road
will not be constructed as part of this project. Both the EIR for the Margarita Area Specific Plan and the environmental document
for the actual Prado Road construction project should incorporate further evaluation of potential impacts to the site and should
incorporate mitigation measures as necessary to reduce potential impacts to CA-SLO-1427 to less than significant levels.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
Impact With Impact
Mitigation
6. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the Incorporated
project:
a) Expose people or structures to potential
substantial adverse effects, including the
risk of loss, injury,or death involving: 1
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Alquist-
Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map
issued by the State Geologist for the area
or based on other substantial evidence of
a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines
and Geology Special Publication 42. 1 X
i) Strong seismic ground shaking? 1 X
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction? 1 X
iv) Landslides? X
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the
loss of topsoil? 1 X
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is
unstable, or that would become unstable as
a result of the project, and potentially result
in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading,
subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? 1 X
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
13
lg-GG
Attachment 7
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
Table 18- 1-13 of the Uniform Building Code
(1994), creating substantial risks to Iffe or
property? 1 X
e) Have soils incapable of adequately
supporting the use of septic tanks or
alternative wastewater disposal systems
where sewers are not available for the
disposal of wastewater? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
6a-i. The City of San Luis Obispo is in a seismically active region. Strong ground shaking is expected during the life of
structures, which must comply with seismic design criteria in the Uniform Building Code. No known faults pass under or
close to the site.The site is not subject to landslide, liquefaction, seiche,tsunami, or volcanic hazards. It does not contain
unique features.
Soil erosion and expansive soils are common concerns at construction sites in the San Luis Obispo area. They are
addressed by requirements of the Uniform Building Code.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
7. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS Impact With Impact
Mitigation
MATERIALS. Would the project: Incorporated
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment through the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous
materials? 1 X
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or
the environment through reasonably
foreseeable upset and accident conditions
involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment? 1 X
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle
hazardous or acutely hazardous materials,
substances, or waste within one-quarter
mile of an existing or proposed school? 1 X
d) Be located on a site which is included on a
list of hazardous materials sites compiled
pursuant to Government Code Section
65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a
significant hazard to the public or the 1 X
environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land
use plan or, where such a plan has not
been adopted, within two miles of a public
airport or public use airport, would the
project result in a safety hazard for people 1 X
residing or working in the project area?
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
14
' 7
0 For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip,would the project result in a safety
hazard for people residing or working in
the project area? 1 X
g) Impair implementation of or physically
interfere with an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation
plan? 1 X
h) Expose people or structures to a
significant risk of loss, injury or death
involving wildland fires, including where
wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas
or where residences are intermixed with 1 X
wildlands?
Impact Discussion:
7a-d. The project site is not known to have existing toxic or hazardous materials present and the proposed project will not
- involve the transport or disposal of hazardous materials. Fertilizer and other horticultural chemicals will be used and
stored on site, generally in small quantities. The use of these materials does not usually constitute a significant risk or
hazard.
The location of the storage building is out of the flood plain and would not be inundated.The use of chemicals is limited to
herbicides, gopher bait and fertilizer. City park maintenance workers that handle these materials are certified and licensed
by the State/County as applicators. They are trained and supervised by City staff that are Agricultural Pest Control
Advisors.Adherence to standard City protocols for training, handling and application will minimize risks.
7e. The proposed use is compatible according to the Airport Land Use Plan.
7f. Not applicable.
7g. The proposed circulation system is consistent with the Circulation Element and draft Margarita Specific Plan and has been
reviewed by the Fire Department for emergency access requirements.
7h. Not applicable.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
8. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Impact With Impact
Mitigation
Would the project: Incorporated
a) Violate any water quality standards or
waste discharge requirements? 1 X
b) Substantially deplete groundwater
supplies or interfere substantially with
groundwater recharge such that there
would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or
a lowering of the local groundwater table
level (e.g., the production rate of pre-
existing nearby wells would drop to a level
which would not support existing land 1 X
uses or planned uses for which permits
have been granted)?
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
15
Attachment 7
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern of the site or area, including
through the alteration of the course of a
stream or river, in a manner which would
result in substantial erosion or siltation on- 1,9 X
or off-site?
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage
pattern of the site or area, including
through the alteration of the course of a
stream or river, or substantially increase
the rate or amount of surface runoff in a
manner which would result in flooding on- 9 X
or off-site?
e) Create or contribute runoff water which
would exceed the capacity of existing or
planned stormwater drainage systems or
provide substantial additional sources of
polluted runoff? 9 X
f) Otherwise substantially degrade water
quality? 1 X
g) Place housing within a 100-year flood
hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood
Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate
Map or other flood hazard delineation
map? 9 X
h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area
structures which would impede or redirect
flood flows? 9 X
i) Expose people or structures to a significant
risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding,
including flooding as a result of the failure of
a levee or dam? 9 X
j) Inundation by seiche,tsunami, or mudflow? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
8a. The project will not add significant wastewater flows or contribute cumulatively to any waste discharge violation. The
proposed project includes a subsurface drainage system under the turf to provide for rapid de-watering, allowing
maximum use of the fields in wet weather. This system could also act as a conduit for fertilizers in the turf medium to be
leached out and discharged into the creeks. This subject is addressed in more detail under 8f below because there are no
federal or state standards for nitrogen levels in fresh water / aquatic systems (Greg McGowan, LFR, personal
communication April 2001)and no water quality standard is involved.
8b. The proposed project would not use groundwater. To the extent that reclaimed water planned to be used for irrigation
moves through to soil, the project could have a very minor, beneficial effect on groundwater because the sewer treatment
water,which will be used for irrigation, currently is discharged into San Luis Creek.
8c. The project has been designed to not alter the existing drainage patterns significantly.The realigned Orcutt Creek channel
will be a broad, shallow swale which isnot conducive to erosion.
8d. The project has been designed to not significantly alter the existing elevation, width or volume of stormwater leaving the
site.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
16
Attachment 7
8e. The amount of additional runoff due to impervious surfaces proposed (parking, roads, paths) relative to the overall flood
stage water volume has been determined to be insignificant using hydraulic modeling calculations.
8f. Improvements to the creeks as well as removal of cattle from the site will improve creek water quality.
As described under 8a above, the proposed subsurface turf drainage system has the potential to carry excess nitrogen
from fertilizer to Acacia and Orcutt creeks. Nitrogen is soluble in nitrate form and would be expected to be present in the
drainage discharge from the proposed park, as it is in other city parks with turf grass. Dissolved nitrogen is also a
component of all urban runoff as nearly all urban landscapes use fertilizer. In addition, nitrogen is present in agricultural
runoff associated with both crops and livestock. Nitrate levels of 10 ppm are not unusual where livestock are present
(Greg McGowan, personal communication). Livestock currently using the site and existing urban runoff contribute nitrogen
to both creeks today. Nitrogen can be harmful when concentrations increase algae levels. Increased algae use up oxygen
in the water and decrease water quality for aquatic organisms. Currently there is not evidence of adverse algae levels in
the creeks although seasonal fluctuations would be expected.
A drainage system similar to that proposed for this project was installed recently at Cal Poly. Monitoring of drainage
discharge water quality in Brizzolara Creek indicates the pre-development level of 5 ppm nitrate (livestock upstream)
increased to 8 ppm during the turf establishment phase(Chris Clark, CMCA, personal communication April 2001).The turf
establishment phase used double the normal fertilizer rates (George Meade, Cal Poly, personal communication March
2001). Because turf fertilization during establishment is for a short duration, this effect is not significant for water quality..
Long-term effects would also be less than significant primarily because current industry turf management techniques
ensure that a high percentage of nutrients are taken up into the turf and are not residual and available in the soil for
leaching in significant amounts. Provided that fertilization is managed, the increase in nitrogen in the creeks would not be
expected to create significant adverse effects on water quality.
Mitigation Measure:
To maintain levels of increased nitrogen in the creeks at as low of rates as practical, the City shall employ fertilization
techniques in combination with an overall turf management program that applies nitrogen fertilizer at rates and'in a form
that is efficiently taken up by the turf with minimum residual nitrogen in the root zone or below. The City shall monitor and
test water quality in Orcutt and Acacia creeks downstream of the project prior to development, once during turf
establishment, and annually for three years to ensure nitrogen levels are not producing adverse algae increases.
Fertilization frequency and type shall be adjusted accordingly,if necessary.
8g. Not applicable.
8h. The project has been designed to allow 100-year flood waters to move across the site in a manner similar to the existing
condition. No proposed structures would impede these flows.
8i. The park would not be open for use during a 100-year flood event.
8j. Not applicable.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
S. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the Impact With Mitigation Impact
project: Incorporated
a) Physically divide an established
community? 1 X
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan,
policy, or regulation of an agency with
jurisdiction over the project (including, but
not limited to the general plan, specific
plan, local coastal program, or zoning
ordinance) adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental
effect? 1. 12 X
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat.
conservation plan or natural community
conservation plan? 1 X
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
17
18-70
Attachment 7
Impact Discussion:
9a-b. The project has been planned for the urbanization since 1994 'and is part of the draft Margarita Area Specific Plan. As
such, the project will not physically divide an established community and is consistent with adopted City plans and
policies.
The effects of conversion of this and other lands from open space were considered in the 1994 Land Use Element EIR's
cumulative analysis.That EIR identified an unavoidable cumulative impact related to loss of open space, and a statement
of overriding considerations was adopted at that time.
The City Open Space Element contains policies that require development project to, "as a first priority", preserve creeks
and their corridors and wetlands as open space. If, as in the case of this project, there is no practicable alternative to
altering these resources,the alterations must be minimized and mitigation provided.
Orcutt Creek and some associated wetlands require realignment in order to meet the basic project objective of four soccer
fields and associated parking. Acacia Creek will only be modified to lay back vertical banks. As described above under
Biological resources, the project will enhance and mitigate for these alterations by creating dense riparian corridors for
each creek, substantially increasing their biologic value. The proposed park layout and the location of Prado Road is also
the least impacting alternative on creeks and wetlands that meet the project objectives. The project is therefore in
compliance with Creek and Wetland Protection Policy by minimizing the impact (after design evaluation of multiple
alternatives), and mitigating the loss of resource by creation of new, enhanced riparian corridors a averaging 100 feet in
width for Acacia Creek and 50 feet for Orcutt creek. The restoration of Acacia Creek banks and the restoration of both
degraded creeks is consistent.with open space policy.
The project is consistent with open space policies related to flood hazard by not increasing flood stage flows onto other
properties and locating structures outside of the flood-prone area of the site.
The project does not significantly impact native grassland of biologic significance and is consistent with Open Space
Element Grassland Communities policy.
The project is also consistent with Open Space policies related to:
• maintaining scenic quality by minimizing visual impacts and keeping development in scale and character with the
surroundings(see Section 1—Aesthetics,above)
• locating active park uses near housing, commercial and industrial land uses
• compliance with park accessibility standards
• utilization of reclaimed water for parks
compliance with cultural resource management requirement for minimizing impacts (see Section 5—Cultural
Resources,above)
• integration of bike and pedestrian paths to provide connection of parks to open space areas
The proposed project is consistent with, and implements, Park and Recreation Element policy related to development of
needed new sports fields, Circulation Element policy related to the alignment of Prado Road, and the Bicycle
Transportation Plan related to establishment of commuter and recreational bike path links.The plan also is consistent with
LUE policy 2.3.2 calling for bike and pedestrian separation from roadways in new expansion areas, LUE policy 2.3.1(C)
calling for protection of wildlife corridors, (D) related to parks and bikeways, and (1) related to reclaimed water use.
9c. Not applicable.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
10. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the Impact With Mitigation Impact
Incorporated
project:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known
mineral resource that would be of value to
the region and the residents of the state? 1 X
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
18
//4-7/
Attachment 7
b) Result in the loss of availability of a
locally-important mineral resource
recovery site delineated on a local general
plan, specific plan or other land use plan? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
10a-b. Although a portion of the site covers an old redrock borrow pit, this pit has been inactive for years and is not a significant
resource..
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
Impact With Mitigation Impact
11. NOISE. Would the project result in: Incorporated
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of
noise levels in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or
noise ordinance, or applicable standards
of other agencies? 3,10 X
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of
excessive groundbome vibration or
groundborne noise levels? 3,10 X
c) A substantial permanent increase in
ambient noise levels in the project vicinity
above levels existing without the project? 3,10 X
d) A substantial temporary or periodic
increase in ambient noise levels in the
project vicinity above levels existing
Without the project? 3,10 X
e) For a project located within an airport land
use plan or, where such a plan has not
been adopted,within two miles of a public
airport or public use airport, would the
project expose people residing or working
in the project area to excessive noise
levels? 3,10 X
I) For a project within the vicinity of a private
airstrip, would the project expose people
residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels? 3,10 X
Impact.Discussion:
11a. The proposed project is located near State Route 227 and the San Luis Obispo County Airport. Both have transportation-
related noise. A noise study was conducted that concluded that these transportation noise levels would not exceed City
noise standards of 70 dB Ldn for users on the play fields.The noise study also estimated the effect of field-user generated
noise (i.e., tournaments) on surrounding land uses. The nearest sensitive noise receptor is the mobile home park to the
southwest of the project. It was determined that worst-case noise levels from the sports fields would be less than 60 dBA
Ldn, which is within the city noise standards for residential area noise. The noise model is based on the project
description, which specifies no loudspeaker/public address system. The conclusion is that on-site user noise exposure
and user generated noise off site at the mobile home park and future school will be within city standards.
11 b. No activities on the site would produce excessive ground-borne vibration or noise.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
19
113-7Z-
Attachment 7
11c. The potential noise increases due to the project would be sporadic and episodic rather than continual. Ambient noise is
measured in a day-night average(Ldn)under the City's Noise Element.
According to the referenced noise study. Ldn would not be exceeded provided the proposed 10:00 P.M. organized play
use limit is adhered to by the City as planned.
11d. The project would create temporary noise increases during daylight hours while the site is being graded. Due to the short
duration, and distance from receptors this impact would not create Ldn noise levels in excess of the Noise Element.
standard.
11e. An analysis of existing and future airport noise source effects on the project site concluded that while shop` duration
aircraft noise could interfere with communication across the fields, this noise level and duration does not pose a
significant hazard to safe use of the fields.
11f. Not applicable:
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
12. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would Impact With Mitigation Impact
the project: Incorporated
a) Induce substantial population growth in an
area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or
indirectly(for example,through extension of
roads or other infrastructure)? 1 X
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing
housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere? 1 X
c) Displace substantial numbers of people,
necessitating the construction of re-
placement housing elsewhere? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
12a-c. The project would not displace housing or people, and is not growth inducing.The facility will meet existing unmet needs.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
13. PUBLIC SERVICES. Impact With Mitigation Impact
Incorporated
a) Would the project result in substantial
adverse physical impacts associated with
the provision of new or physically altered
governmental facilities, need for new or
physically altered governmental facilities,
the construction of which could cause
significant environmental impacts, in order
to maintain acceptable service ratios,
response times or other performance
objectives for any of the public services:
Fire protection? 1 X
Police protection? 1 X
Schools? 1 X
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
20
ATtacthment 7
Parks? 1 X
Other public facilities? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
13a. The project will not result in the need for any new or altered facilities which might cause impacts on the environment.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
14. RECREATION: Impact With Mitigation Impact
Incorporated
a) Would the project increase the use of
existing neighborhood and regional parks
or other recreational facilities such that
substantial physical deterioration of the
facility would occur or be accelerated? 1 X
b) Does the project include recreational
facilities or require the construction or
expansion of recreational facilities Which
might have an adverse physical effect on
the environment? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
14a-b. The project will enable most field sport activity currently at a variety of facilities around the City to occur at the project site.
This will benefit field quality at these other facilities.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
15. TRANSPORTATIONITRAFFIC: Would Impact With Mitigation Impact
the project: Incorporated
a) Cause an increase in traffic Which is
substantial in relation to the existing traffic
load and capacity of the street system (i.e.,
result in a substantial increase in either the
number of vehicle trips, the volume to
capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at
intersections)? 3,7 X
b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively,
a level of service standard established by
the county congestion management agency
for designated roads or highways? 3,7 X
c) Result in a change in air traffic pattems,
including either an increase in traffic levels
or a change in location that results in
substantial safety risks? 3,7 X
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or
dangerous intersections) or incompatible
uses(e.g.,farm equipment)? 7 X
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
21 p
Attachment 7
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? 1,7 X
f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? 1,7 X
g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or
programs supporting alternative transpor-
tation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? 1,7 X
Impact Discussion:
15a-b. A traffic study was prepared for the project which concludes no significant impacts will result from the project provided the
following mitigating improvements are made to the Route 227(Broad Street)/Industrial Way intersection.Traffic increases
for the project would typically be off-peak hour or weekend and do not contribute significantly to existing and projected
peak hour traffic volumes.
Mitigation Measure:
To allow safe access to the.site, the Broad Street/Industrial Way intersection configuration and signal shall be modified to
improve the west leg for access to the project parking lot prior to use of the park. The City shall retain a civil/traffic
engineer to prepare intersection plans for approval by Caltrans and the City Public Works Department.
15c. The project will not add to or alter air traffic.
15d. The project access point and the future Prado Road alignment intersection at Route 227 are conventional intersections
with existing and planned signalization and would not be considered hazardous.
Future land uses west of the planned Prado Road include an elementary school and residences.The proposed project is
designed to provide safe pedestrian and bicycle movement through an underpass at Prado Road. The design includes a
bicycle interchange and regional recreational bicycle path linkages.The design of these comply with Caltrans bicycle path
standards and would not create significant safety risks.
The park is six to ten feet, or more, below the grade of Prado Road. A fill embankment with a fence and dense planting
will separate the fields from Prado Road. This will provide a substantial buffer/barrier to pedestrian movement at-grade
across Prado Road. The design strongly focuses pedestrian and bicycle movement to the underpass. The underpass is
planned to be open, safe and well lit(see Exhibits 11 and 12).
15e. The proposed site plan received City Fire Department input for emergency access and is generally adequate for
emergency ambulance access to the fields via the bridges and paths.
15f. The City Zoning Code (Section 17.16.060) requires one space per 500 square feet of sports field. Calculation is
problematic in this case where turf grass is being created to provide flexibility for various sizes and numbers of fields.The
worst-case is eight youth fields. Since they vary in size but actually have similar numbers of users,the space/square foot
formula is not accurate for parking needs. The Zoning Code would require 409 spaces for eight fields. Since the specific
nature of the proposed activity is known, the traffic consultant calculated actual persons per team, referees, observers,
parking spaces and vehicle turnover,etc., at other soccer facilities to determine a realistic parking demand.
The project traffic report determined that the proposed parking (about 150 spaces)would be adequate for parking demand
for weekday and evening use, and weekend use when only four or five fields are used. During youth soccer season, about
8 or 9 fields will be in use on Saturdays (see Exhibit 3—Field Layouts). At these peak days up to 241 additional spaces
could be needed if the games have no gap between them and there is an overlap of team arrival and departures. With a
30 to 45 minute gap between games, only 68 additional spaces would be needed.
The Parks and Recreation Department has determined that the seasonal (about 10 Saturdays a year) shortfall can be
adequately addressed using management techniques. First, it appears that the development immediately to the south of
the park which shares the Industrial Way access, known as the Lathrop property is available both before and after
development of that property for Saturday parking pursuant to the approval of the property owner. Businesses in that
development would not generally be open Saturdays,freeing up about 200 parking spaces for soccer teams. Second,the
City can require the soccer league to manage total parking demand by a combination of one or more of these methods:
• require each team to carpool by only allocating a certain number of spaces per team
• require the league or tournament sponsor to arrange for off-site parking in an existing parking lot elsewhere in the City,
with shuttle service to the site
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
22
Attachment 7
• require the league to spread games apart to reduce peak parking demand.
With management of the youth league activities,the 10-day-per-year shortfall in parking can be adequately met.
Mitigation Measure:
To reduce peak seasonal parking deficit,the City shall enter into an agreement with the owner of the property immediately
to the south of the site to provide Saturday overflow parking. If this arrangement does not provide sufficient parking the
City shall require the Youth Soccer League to modify its activities to reduce peak parking demand, i.e., spread game start
times to reduce overlap of team arrival/departure.
15g. The project is consistent with the Draft Margarita Area Specific Plan with respect to implementing the planned regional
commuter and recreational bicycle path connections through the site.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
16. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Impact With Mitigation Impact
Would the project: Incorporated
a) Exceed wastewater treatment require-
ments of the applicable Regional Water
Quality Control Board? 1 X
b) Require or result in the construction of
new water or wastewater treatment
facilities or expansion of existing facilities,
the construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects? 1 X
c) Require or result in the construction of
new storm water drainage facilities or
expansion of existing facilities, the
construction of which could cause
significant environmental effects? 1,9 X
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to
serve the project from existing
entitlements and resources, or are new or
expanded entitlements needed? 1 X
e) Result in a determination by the
wastewater treatment provider which
serves or may serve the project that it has
adequate capacity to serve the project's
projected demand in addition to the
provider's existing commitments? 1 X
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient
permitted capacity to accommodate the
project's solid waste disposal needs? 1 X
g) Comply with federal, state, and local
statutes and regulations related to solid
waste? 1 X
Impact Discussion:
16a-b. The project will not significantly impact city wastewater flows..
16c. The project does not include significant storm drainage facilities and will not create the need for downstream
improvements.
16d. Domestic water demands for the project will be negligible. Irrigation will use reclaimed water within a short time after field
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23, 2001
23
construction, which would mean-overall city water supply would not be subsc6tially or cumulatively ,�e PeW iyrttlrsnt 7
proposed project.
16e. The 1994 LUE EIR did not identify a lack of treatment plant capacity for this property's conversion to urban use.
161-g. The solid waste generation for this project is unsubstantial and is limited to weekly "spikes" of waste such as beverage
containers generated at tournaments and AYSO games. Green waste will be recycled. The project description includes
provision for recycling receptacles for plastics/glass to help divert waste that would otherwise go to the landfill.
Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No Impact
Significant Significant Significant
17. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFI- Impact With Mitigation Impact
CANCE. Incorporated
a) Does the project have the potential to
degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or
wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop .below self-sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, reduce the number or
restrict the range of a rare or endangered
plant or animal or eliminate important
examples of the major periods of
California history or prehistory? X
b) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? ("Cumulatively consider-
able"means that the incremental effects of
a project are considerable when viewed in
connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current
projects, and the effects of probable future
projects)? X
c) Does the project have environmental
effects which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either
directly or indirectly? X
Impact Discussion:
17a. Overall, the project is designed to minimize effects on Acacia and Orcutt Creeks and associated wetlands, as well as the
serpentine bunchgrass grassland habitat, it's native flora, and associated rare plants. Current plans propose to
concentrate development in the non-native annual grassland area, enhance Acacia Creek, and realign and enhance
Orcutt Creek and seasonal wetlands within the project site. The vegetated corridor between the two creeks will provide an
opportunity for wildlife to move between the two drainages. Overall, the project impacts along with compensatory
mitigation would reduce impacts on biological resources to a less-than-significant level.
17b. Cumulative effects of the conversion of this property to urban use were addressed in the City's 1994 Land Use Element
EIR. Unavoidable cumulative impacts on loss of open space where identified at that time and findings related to a
statement of overriding considerations were made.
17c. The proposed project will not result in environmental effects which could have a substantial adverse effect on human
beings.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial.Environmental Study
May 23,2001
24
1,9_77
Attachment 7
17. EARLIER ANALYSES.
Earlier analysis may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, one of more effects have been
adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or Negative Declaration. Section 15063(c) (3) (D0. In this case a discussion should identify
the following items:
a) Earlier analysis used.
The proposed project site was reviewed in a 1999 Initial Study and Negative Declaration for the annexation of the property (ER
177-99). A copy of the Initial Study is available at the City of San Luis Obispo, Community Development Department, 990 Palm
Street,San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401.
The site area is also covered by the City's General Plan Land Use Element and Circulation Element, which were comprehensively
revised in 1994. A final EIR for those updates was prepared in 1994. That EIR is available at the City of San Luis Obispo
Community Development Department,990 Palm Street,San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
b) Impacts adequately addressed. (Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately
analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by
mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis.)
• loss of agricultural land and open space(1994 Land Use Element EIR) statement of overriding considerations
• Soils and Geology(no mitigation required)
• Water and Wastewater(use of reclaimed water as a mitigation measure)
• Solid Waste(no mitigation required)
• Cumulative effects no mitigation required)
c) Mitigation measures. (For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated," describe the mitigation
measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific
conditions of the project.)
The use of reclaimed water is part of the project description.
18. SOURCE REFERENCES. All cited references, including Project Technical Reports (#'s 5-10 below), are available for
review at the Community Development Department,990 Palm St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
1. Initial Study and Negative Declaration for ANNX 177-99 dated October 20, 1999.
2. Initial Study for ER 79-99 Orcutt Creek Annexation and Development Plan, December 28, 1999.
3. Administrative Draft EIR Airport Area/Margarita Specific Plan EIR.
4. CEQA Air Quality Handbook San Luis Obispo County APCD.
5. Archaeological Investigation at CA-SLO-1427, C.A. Singer&Associates, October 20,2000.
6. Biological and Wetland Assessment Damon-Garcia Sports complex, Rincon Consultants, October 13,2000.
7. 1 Traffic and Parking Report for Damon-Garcia Sports Fields,ATE January 11,2000.
8. Sportsfield Lighting Analysis for Damon-Garcia Sports Fields,Thoma Engineering and Garcia Architecture and Design,
April 2001.
9. Flood Analysis for Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Cannon Associates Aril .2001.
10. Noise Assessment for Damon-Garcia Sports Fields, Harris Miller Miller&Hanson, February 22, 2001.
11. Initial Environmental Study and Mitigation Monitoring for Prado Road Extension Circulation Element Amendment,
February 2000.
12. General Plan Land Use Element Update EIR, 1994.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
25
/9-7P•
Attachment 7
19. MITIGATION MEASURES/MONITORING PROGRAM.
1d. To minimize the effect of sports field lighting.
The design shall employ no more than eleven poles east of Acacia Creek and four poles west.of Acacia Creek with a
maximum of 80-foot poles. The level of of-site spill at the Route 227 right-of-way shall not exceed 1.50 foot candles. The
level of spill west of Acacia Creek shall not exceed an average of 1.9 foot candles. Park policy shall be that lights are off
at 10:00 P.M.
Monitoring Program: The Community Development Department shall verify final lighting plan substantially conforms to
the measure. The City Public Works Department shall retain an engineer to verify off-site spill levels meet the limits in the
measure.
3. The following mitigation measures are required to reduce short-term (construction) air quality impacts. Proper
implementation of these measures shall be assumed to achieve a 50% reduction in fugitive dust emissions. The use of
:soil binders on completed cut-and-fill areas has the potential to reduce fugitive dust emissions by 80%:
a. Reduce the amount of the disturbed area where possible.
b. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dust from leaving the site.
Increased watering frequency would be required whenever wind speeds exceed 15 mph. Reclaimed (non-potable)
water should be used whenever possible.
c. All dirt stockpile areas should be sprayed daily as needed.
d. Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved project revegetation and landscape plans should be
implemented as soon as possible following completion of any soil disturbing activities.
e. Exposed ground areas that are planned to be reworked at dates greater than one month after initial grading
should be sown with a fast-germinating native grass seed and watered until vegetation is established.
f. All disturbed soil areas not subject to revegetation should be stabilized using approved chemical soil binders,jute
netting,or other methods approved in advance by the APCD.
g. All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc., to be paved should be completed as soon as possible. In addition,
building pads should be laid as soon as possible after grading unless seeding or soil binders are used.
h. Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 125 mph on any unpaved surface at the construction
site.
i. All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to be covered or should maintain at least two feet of
freeboard (minimum vertical distance between top of load and top of trailer) in accordance with CVC Section
23114.This measure has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by 7-14%.
j. Install wheel washers where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto streets, or wash off trucks and equipment
leaving the site.This measure has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by 40-70%.
k. Sweep.streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent paved roads.Water sweepers
with reclaimed water should be used where feasible.This measure has the potential to reduce PM10 emissions by
25-60%.
I. All PM10 mitigation measures required should be shown on grading and building plans. In addition, the contractor
or builder should designate a person or persons to monitor the dust control program and to order increased
watering, as necessary, to prevent transport of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holidays and weekend
periods when work may not be in progress.The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to
the APCD prior to land use clearance for map recordation and land use clearance for finish grading of the
structure.
Monitoring Program: The City Public Works Department designated Project Inspector shall monitor compliance
during construction.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
26
113-7/
Attachment 7
4b-c. To mitigate impacts on riparian wetland resources.
• The realigned section of Orcutt Creek should be created to meander and be sized so that a meandering low-flow
channel can be established over time.
• Design created seasonal wetland habitat adjacent to both sides of the realigned Orcutt Creek with a curved and
rounded border.
• Salvage impacted wetland plant material and top six inches of soil for use as inoculum in the created wetland habitat.
• Enhance Acacia Creek with woody riparian tree and shrub plantings. Removal of grazing should also help restore the
riparian cover.
• Flood control improvements on Acacia Creek should maximize the use of biotechnical methods and minimize the
amount of rock.
• Create a habitat connection between the two creeks on the southern property boundary. Native trees, shrubs, and
herbs should be installed to create vegetated cover for wildlife movement between the two creeks and to discourage
human access.
• Acacia and Orcutt creeks should be fenced with an average 25-foot buffer zone to discourage access by people.
Educational signage should be positioned along the fence line informing the public of the sensitivity of the habitat and
to encourage stewardship by not entering the fenced area.
Monitoring Program: The City Natural Resources Manager shall review final plans for creek enhancement. The City
shall retain a biological monitor to monitor construction and provide post-construction reports.
4d. To mitigate potential impacts on Southwestern Pond Turtle.
• Construct the new Orcutt Creek channel prior to filling the existing channel.
• Water should be diverted into the new Orcutt Creek channel for at least one week before filling and grading the old
channel. This will allow for passive migration of turtles into the new channel. Prior to filling or grading activities in the
old channel, a qualified biologist should survey the old channel for stranded turtles and relocate them to the new
channel.
• To minimize pond turtles from straying into the construction areas, silt fencing should be installed and maintained in
Working condition at the location of the riparian setback along both Acacia and Orcutt creeks during all construction
phases.
• In order to minimize potential disturbance of pond turtle nest sites, all improvements to Acacia Creek should be
conducted as late in the dry season as is feasible. A qualified biologist should be on the site during all earthmoving
work on Acacia Creek to rescue and relocate any stranded pond turtles. Arrangements for captive rearing of yearling
turtles for one year and then release the following spring should be. included as mitigation in the event a nest is
disturbed.
• The two creeks and wetlands should be fenced with educational signs on the sensitivity of the habitat areas to prevent
intrusion by people. Mention of presence of the pond turtle should not be made on the educational signs so as to not
promote collection for pets.
• An educational brochure or other materials shall be provided to each of the city workers who will be responsible for
park maintenance that provides information regarding the correct procedures for protecting the turtles.
• The City Biologist shall be designated the contact person for monitoring turtle sightings. The name and telephone
number of the City Biologist should be included in the educational information. The contact person shall maintain
records of turtle sightings, including the specific location and circumstances of the sightings and explanation of what, if
any,action was taken.Turtle harassment must be reported to the California Department of Fish and Game.
Monitoring Program: The City Natural Resources Manager shall review final construction specifications. The City
shall retain a biological monitor to ensure measure compliance during construction.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23,2001
27
Ig-Pv
Attachment 7
8f. Tomaintain levels of increased nitrogen in the creeks at as low of rates as practical, the City shall employ
fertilization techniques in combination with an overall turf management program that applies nitrogen fertilizer at rates and
in a form that is efficiently taken up by the turf with minimum residual nitrogen in the root zone or below. The City shall
monitor and test water quality in Orcutt and Acacia creeks downstream of the project prior to development, once during
turf establishment, and annually for three years to ensure nitrogen levels are not producing adverse algae increases.
Fertilization frequency and type shall be adjusted accordingly, if necessary.
Monitoring Program: The City Natural Resources Manager shall coordinate water testing with the Public Works
Department Parks Maintenance Division and retain a monitor if necessary to evaluate algae levels.
15a-b. To allow safe access to the site the Broad Street/Industrial Way intersection configuration and signal shall be modified
to improve the west leg for access to the project parking lot. The City shall retain a civil/traffic engineer to prepare
intersection plans for approval by Caltrans and the City Public Works Department.
Monitoring Program: The City Public Works Department shall review final intersection plans and obtain Caltrans
encroachment permit.
15f. To reduce peak seasonal parking deficit, the City shall enter into an agreement with the Lathrop property to provide
Saturday overflow parking. If this arrangement does not provide sufficient parking the City shall require the Youth Soccer
League to modify its activities to reduce peak parking demand, i.e., spread game start times to reduce overlap of team
arrival/departure.
Monitoring Program: City Parks and Recreation Department shall secure agreement for off-site parking and monitor
parking annually during youth soccer season.
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Initial Environmental Study
May 23, 2001
28
//�'81
- Attachment 8
RESOLUTION NO. (2002 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS
OBISPO APPROVING AN ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT TO
ALLOW SPORTS FIELDS IN THE CONSERVATION/OPEN SPACE AND
PUBLIC FACILITY ZONES AND ADOPTING A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR
THE PROJECT (A/ER 185-99)
WHEREAS,the Planning Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public
hearing in the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on
April 24, 2002 for the purpose of formulating and forwarding recommendations to the City
Council of the City of San Luis Obispo regarding the project, A/ER 189-99, an administrative
use permit with environmental review for a project to develop a sports field complex on the
project site; and
WHEREAS, the Council of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public hearing in
the Council Chamber of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on June 18,
2002 for the purpose of considering the project; and
WHEREAS, notices of said public hearings were made at the time and in the manner
required by law; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the Mitigated Negative
Declaration of environmental impact and the mitigation monitoring program prepared for the
project; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has duly considered all evidence, including the testimony
of the applicant, interested parties, and the evaluation and recommendations by staff,presented at
said hearing.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
Section 1. Findings. Based upon all the evidence, the Council makes the following
findings:
1. As conditioned, the project will not harm the general health, safety or welfare of people
living or working in the vicinity of the project site because conditions of approval are
required to insure that the pathways are designed accommodate emergency response
vehicles and the Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project adequately evaluates
project impacts, and where impacts are considered to be significant, mitigation measures
are recommended to reduce the impacts to less than significant levels.
2. The proposed project is consistent with the General Plan, which designates the project
site as Park, because the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields project will accommodate existing
demand for sports fields in the City.
�B'�Z
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 2
3. The Parks and Recreation Element of the General Plan lists athletic fields as an unmet
need and includes the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Construction in the 0-4 year
implementation plan.
4. The proposed athletic fields are compatible with the project site and with existing and
potential future uses in the vicinity because the field lighting has been designed to reduce
spill light and glare to the greatest extent possible, while still providing for flexibility in
field use and layout.
5. As conditioned, the proposed parking lot, with 157 parking spaces, is adequate to meet
the projected parking demand for a majority of the year. During the 10 Saturdays per
year when it is anticipated that parking demand will exceed the supply, off-site parking
options as well as demand management strategies will effectively eliminate impacts from
an inadequate parking supply. A one-year review of parking at the facility by the
Administrative Hearing Officer will insure a coordinated approach to parking demand
management at the facility.
Section 2. Creek Setback Exceptions, Findings. The Council does hereby grant creek
setback exceptions for the proposed bridges and for the planned bicycle and pedestrian pathway
north of the realigned Orcutt Creek, as shown on Exhibit A, based on the following findings.
1. The location and design of the feature receiving the exception will minimize impacts to
scenic resources, water quality, and riparian habitat, including opportunities for wildlife
habitation, rest and movement because the proposed bridges are foot bridges that are
small in scope and the additional exceptions are for pathways that will not effect scenic
resources and that are located outside of the riparian corridors that will be restored as part
of the proposed project.
2. The exception will not limit the City's design options for providing flood control
measures that are needed to achieve adopted City flood policies because the project is a
sports fields project with limited new coverage by impervious surfaces and the project is
being designed to leave the current drainage pattern of the site unaltered.
3. The exception will not prevent the implementation of City-adopted plans, nor increase
the adverse environmental effects of implementing such plans because the purpose of the
project is to implement a City-adopted plan to provide athletic fields and the project
includes significant improvement and restoration of a degraded creek corridor along
Acacia Creek and Orcutt Creek.
4. There are circumstances applying to the site, such as shape and topography, that do not
apply generally to land in the vicinity with the same zoning, that would deprive the
property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity with the same zoning
because the project site is bisected by two creeks that are being restored to the extent that
/8--�3
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 3
their biological value will far exceed their current state, and if the creeks cannot be
bridged then a significant portion of the property would be unusable, and if the pathway
adjacent to Orcutt Creek is realigned outside of the future creek setback area then it will
directly impact the goal of the project, which is to meet some of the existing demand for
athletic fields in the City.
5. The exception will not constitute a grant of special privilege—an entitlement inconsistent
with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity with the same zoning - because
there are circumstances that apply to this site that don't apply to other sites in the vicinity
with the same zoning and the City evaluates all creek setback exceptions independently
according to the requirements of the Creek Setback Ordinance and the required findings
contained in the Ordinance.
6. The exception will not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property
in the area of the project or downstream because the project will have a net
environmental benefit on the creek corridor and the project has been designed to leave the
overall drainage of the area unchanged, especially in consideration of the potential effects
on downstream properties.
7. Site development cannot be accomplished with a redesign of the project because every
potential orientation of the fields initially reviewed involves some form of creek setback
exception because of the location of the two creeks that bisect the property.
8. Redesign of the project would deny the property owner reasonable use of the property
because a redesign to avoid all creek setback exceptions would significantly reduce the
amount of usable sports field area that could be developed, leaving the City with a
continuing unmet need for athletic fields.
Section 3. Environmental Review. The City Council does hereby adopt a Mitigated
Negative Declaration for the project, with the following mitigation measures and monitoring
programs. (Numbers in parentheses refer to the Initial Study section where the mitigation
measure occurs.)
1. Mitigation Measure (l d)
To minimize the effect of sports field lighting. The design shall employ no more than eleven
poles east of Acacia Creek and four poles west of Acacia Creek with a maximum of 80-foot
poles. The level of of-site spill at the Route 227 right-of-way shall not exceed 1.50 foot candles.
The level of spill west of Acacia Creek shall not exceed an average of 1.9 foot candles. Park
policy shall be that lights are off at 10:00 P.M.
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 4
• Monitoring Program:
The Community Development Department shall verify final lighting plan substantially conforms
to the measure. The City Public Works Department shall retain an engineer to verify off-site spill
levels meet the limits in the measure.
2. Mitigation Measure (3)
The following mitigation measures are required to reduce short-term(construction) air quality
impacts. Proper implementation of these measures shall be assumed to achieve a 50%reduction
in fugitive dust emissions. The use of soil binders on completed cut-and-fill areas has the
potential to reduce fugitive dust emissions by 80%:
a. Reduce the amount of the disturbed area where possible.
b. Use of water trucks or sprinkler systems in sufficient quantities to prevent airborne dust
from leaving the site. Increased watering frequency would be required whenever wind
speeds exceed 15 mph. Reclaimed (non-potable) water should be used whenever
possible..
C. All dirt stockpile areas should be sprayed daily as needed.
d. Permanent dust control measures identified in the approved project revegetation and
landscape plans should be implemented as soon as possible following completion of any
soil disturbing activities.
e. Exposed ground areas that are planned to be reworked at dates greater than one month
after initial grading should be sown with a fast-germinating native grass seed and watered
until vegetation is established.
f. All disturbed soil areas not subject to re-vegetation should be stabilized using approved
chemical soil binders,jute netting, or other methods approved in advance by the APCD.
g. All roadways, driveways, sidewalks, etc.,to be paved should be completed as soon as
possible. In addition, building pads should be laid as soon as possible after grading unless
seeding or soil binders are used.
h. Vehicle speed for all construction vehicles shall not exceed 15 mph on any unpaved
surface at the construction site.
i. All trucks hauling dirt, sand, soil, or other loose materials are to be covered or should
maintain at least two feet of freeboard (minimum vertical distance between top of load
and top of trailer) in accordance with CVC Section 23114. This measure has the potential
to reduce PM10 emissions by 7-14%.
j. Install wheel washers where vehicles enter and exit unpaved roads onto streets, or wash
off trucks and equipment leaving the site. This measure has the potential to reduce PM 10
emissions by 40-70%.
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 5
k. Sweep streets at the end of each day if visible soil material is carried onto adjacent paved
roads. Water sweepers with reclaimed water should be used where feasible. This measure
has the potential to reduce PM 10 emissions by 25-60%.
1. All PM 10 mitigation measures required should be shown on grading and building plans.
In addition,the contractor or builder should designate a person or persons to monitor the
dust control program and to order increased watering, as necessary,to prevent transport
of dust offsite. Their duties shall include holidays and weekend periods when work may
not be in progress. The name and telephone number of such persons shall be provided to
the APCD prior to land use clearance for map recordation and land use clearance for
finish grading of the structure.
• Monitoring Program-
The City Public Works Department designated Project Inspector shall monitor compliance
during construction.
3. Mitigation Measure (4b-c)
a. To mitigate impacts on riparian wetland resources:
b. The realigned section of Orcutt Creek should be created to meander and be sized so that a
meandering low-flow channel can be established over time.
C. Design created seasonal wetland habitat adjacent to both sides of the realigned Orcutt
Creek with a curved and rounded border.
d. Salvage impacted wetland plant material and top six inches of soil for use as inoculum in
the created wetland habitat.
e. Enhance Acacia Creek with woody riparian tree and shrub plantings. Removal of grazing
should also help restore the riparian cover.
f. Flood control improvements on Acacia Creek should maximize the use of biotechnical
methods and minimize the amount of rock.
g. Create a habitat connection between the two creeks on the southern property boundary.
Native trees, shrubs, and herbs should be installed to create vegetated cover for wildlife
movement between the two creeks and to discourage human access.
h. Acacia and Orcutt creeks should be fenced with an average 25-foot buffer zone to
discourage access by people. Educational signage should be positioned along the fence
line informing the public of the sensitivity of the habitat and to encourage stewardship by
not entering the fenced area.
/9-X
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 6
• Monitoring Program:
The City Natural Resources Manager shall review final plans for creek enhancement. The City
shall retain a biological monitor to monitor construction and provide post-construction reports.
4. Mitigation Measure(4d)
To mitigate potential impacts on Southwestern Pond Turtle:
a. Construct the new Orcutt Creek channel prior to filling the existing channel.
b. Water should be diverted into the new Orcutt Creek channel for at least one week before
filling and grading the old channel. This will allow for passive migration of turtles into
the new channel. Prior to filling or grading activities in the old channel, a qualified
biologist should survey the old channel for stranded turtles and relocate them to the new
channel.
C. To minimize pond turtles from straying into the construction areas, silt fencing should be
installed and maintained in working condition at the location of the riparian setback along
both Acacia and Orcutt creeks during all construction phases.
d. In order to minimize potential disturbance of pond turtle nest sites, all improvements to
Acacia Creek should be conducted as late in the dry season as is feasible. A qualified
biologist should be on the site during all earthmoving work on Acacia Creek to rescue
and relocate any stranded pond turtles. Arrangements for captive rearing of yearling
turtles for one year and then release the following spring should be included as mitigation
in the event a nest is disturbed.
e. The two creeks and wetlands should be fenced with educational signs on the sensitivity of
the habitat areas to prevent intrusion by people. Mention of presence of the pond turtle
should not be made on the educational signs so as to not promote collection for pets.
An educational brochure or other materials shall be provided to each of the city workers
who will be responsible for park maintenance that provides information regarding the
correct procedures for protecting the turtles.
f. The City Biologist shall be designated the contact person for monitoring turtle sightings.
The name and telephone number of the City Biologist should be included in the
educational information. The contact person shall maintain records of turtle sightings,
including the specific location and circumstances of the sightings and explanation of
what, if any, action was taken. Turtle harassment must be reported to the California
Department of Fish and Game.
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 7
• Monitoring Program:
The City Natural Resources Manager shall review final construction specifications. The City
shall retain a biological monitor to ensure measure compliance during construction.
5. Mitigation Measure (5b) (Deleted by Planning Commission)
6. Mitigation Measure (8f)
To maintain levels of increased nitrogen in the creeks at as low of rates as practical, the City
shall employ fertilization techniques in combination with an overall turf management program
that applies nitrogen fertilizer at rates and in a form that is efficiently taken up by the turf with
minimum residual nitrogen in the root zone or below. The City shall monitor and test water
quality in Orcutt and Acacia creeks downstream of the project prior to development, once during
turf establishment, and annually for three years to ensure nitrogen levels are not producing
adverse algae increases. Fertilization frequency and type shall be adjusted accordingly, if
necessary.
o Monitoring Program:
The City Natural Resources Manager shall coordinate water testing with the Public Works
Department Parks Maintenance Division and retain a monitor if necessary to evaluate algae
levels.
7. Mitigation Measure (I 5a-b)
To allow safe access to the site the Broad Street/ Industrial Way intersection configuration and
signal shall be modified to improve the west leg for access to the project parking lot. The City
shall retain a civil/traffic engineer to prepare intersection plans for approval by Caltrans and the
City Public Works Department.
• Monitoring Program:
The City Public Works Department shall review final intersection plans and obtain Caltrans
encroachment permit.
8. Mitigation Measure (15f)
To reduce peak seasonal parking deficit, the City shall enter into an agreement with the Lathrop
property to provide Saturday overflow parking. If this arrangement does not provide sufficient
parking the City shall require the Youth Soccer League to modify its activities to reduce peak
parking demand, i.e., spread game start times to reduce overlap of team arrival/departure.
Ig_'P97
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 8
• Monitoring Program:
The City Parks and Recreation Department shall secure agreement for off-site parking and
monitor parking annually during youth soccer season.
Section 4. Action. The Council does hereby approve application A/ER 185-99, subject to
the following conditions of approval.
1. All mitigation measures approved as part of the Mitigated Negative Declaration for the
project are hereby made conditions of project approval and incorporated into the project.
2. Night time activities on the sports fields shall be programmed to be completed early
enough to allow for park users to safely exit the field area prior to 10:00 P.M. when the
lights are required to be turned off.
3. Trash and recycling receptacles shall be placed at both sides of each creek crossing
within the project site to help insure that the creeks stay clean.
4. No amplification, such as bullhorns, shall be allowed if they exceed any standard in the
Noise Ordinance.
5. Special events or temporary uses of the Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex shall
require prior approval of an Administrative Use Permit.
6. The Parks and Recreation Department shall submit a parking management plan for
review and approval by the Community Development Director prior to the
commencement of field use. The plan shall identify off-site parking spaces that are being
used to meet peak parking demand needs and shall discuss alternative transportation
strategies and parking demand reduction strategies that will be employed to insure that
parking does not become a significant problem at the facility.
7. The Planning Commission will review the parking situation at the facility after the first
full year of field use to determine the effectiveness of the approved parking management
plan. If a coordinated solution to identified parking problems is required, then additional
measures shall be required as conditions of approval of the review.
8. Bike racks shall be located in convenient locations along the bike path throughout the
park site to encourage and facilitate bike use among park users.
Attachment 8
Council Resolution (2002 Series)
Damon-Garcia Sports Fields Complex
Page 9
On motion of , seconded by
and on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this —day of 2002.
Mayor Allen Settle
ATTEST:
City Clerk Lee Price
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney Jeff Jorgensen
Atta g nt 8
Cz
0 �cc t• I LIe Xg D �L
p'
ei py ya g f
: -'��
pp ea i l y I �g9gjf;3� ��!� j4
o = i
.h
o�
e L
€L
e� Y
illy,
-LIP
�
NNI
\\ \\ �\ Fa _"' \\\ �`/� moi/ '¢$. _ X \�\ ;:➢
--
V \�::- - 14111 i \-� ..✓ --
`
/
uxan w oas xo�K r'o-a�amwa w•.noaVgcmo\omN.�.i